NRL Roosters v Sea Eagles betting tips & odds – August 3, 2023

Roosters v Sea Eagles best bets

Roosters v Sea Eagles match preview

Round 23 of the 2023 NRL Premiership kicks off at the historic Sydney Cricket Ground with the Roosters hosting the Manly Sea Eagles on Thursday night. These two sides met in round 18 with the Sea Eagles securing a narrow win, but will they be able to repeat that performance?

Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson has made two changes following last week’s loss to the Broncos. Egan Butcher (concussion) will be replaced by Siua Wong, while Drew Hutchison will come onto the bench as Jake Turpin drops to the reserves.

Manly Sea Eagles coach Anthony Siebold has also made two changes after beating the Dragons last weekend. Christian Tuipulotu (knee) will be replaced by Raymond Tuaimalo Vaega, and Ben Trbojevic will also come into the team to replace the dropped Sean Keppie.

The Roosters are struggling in 14th place on the NRL ladder having won just two of their last seven matches. Meanwhile, the Sea Eagles’ recent form has been much stronger, winning four of their last seven matches.

A win on Thursday night for the Sea Eagles could elevate them from 10th position into the top eight on the NRL ladder. With a position in the finals on the line for the visitors, they are a terrific value bet to beat the Roosters at $2.33 odds with the top NRL bookmakers.

Reuben Garrick’s form at fullback has been brilliant for the Sea Eagles over the last fortnight. He has recorded several tackle breaks and line breaks as well as scoring a try in each of his last two matches. Against the Roosters, Garrick should have opportunities – both through set pieces and when supporting his teammates – to score a try at some point in the game ($2.45).

Like Garrick, winger Jason Saab’s form has improved drastically over the last fortnight. He scored last week against the Dragons and should have the speed advantage to beat Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii in defence in this game, so the $2.15 for Saab in the anytime tryscorer market looks a good play.

Key matchup: Victor Radley v Jake Trbojevic

Victor Radley vs Jake Trbojevic

The battle between Roosters and Sea Eagles lock forwards Victor Radley and Jake Trbojevic will be brilliant to watch for fans of strong defenders. Radley is an aggressive defender who looks to make a mark with every hit, while Trbojevic is arguably the best tackler in the NRL. Whoever of these two men can play more minutes on Thursday night will have the opportunity to lift their teammates in defence and set their side up for a much-needed win.

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