The 2020 NRL season surges ahead this week with three must-see matches on Nine.

While the crowds will be absent, the action and passion will be in full force as teams strive to get their first competition points or build on their opening round success.

Tonight on Macca’s Thursday Night Footy, the Bulldogs and Cowboys will be fighting to get back to their winning ways at ANZ Stadium after coming up short in round one.

Fullback Dallin Watene-Zelezniak appeals as the Bulldogs’ most potent weapon, lining up against Valentine Holmes, whose first game back in the NRL last week was a mixed bag, with glimpses of his electrifying best.

The Bulldogs need to lift sharply in attack after going try-less against the Eels in round one. Conversely, the Cowboys’ offence looked promising against the Broncos, but their defence left much to be desired. This is anyone’s game.

VB Friday Night Footy is the match of the round: the Broncos versus the Rabbitohs. The Broncos bristle with individual brilliance from Jamayne Isaako, new halfback Brodie Croft, and the rampaging David Fifita. They are without suspended star forward Tevita Pangai Jr, with rookie Jamil Hopoate slotting in to replace him.

All eyes will be on new Rabbitohs fullback Latrell Mitchell. Souths’ new captain, Adam Reynolds, strong against the Bulldogs last week as he scored a try and had a great day with the boot, will be in the thick of things again.

On Chemist Warehouse Sunday Footy, the Wests Tigers take on the Newcastle Knights. Both sides had a lot to prove last week after underperforming in 2019, and both had impressive wins.

Benji Marshall turned back the clock with one of his best performances in years as he bamboozled the Dragons’ defence. He needs to again lead the way for his younger troops. With both Moses Mbye and Luke Brooks still out injured, crafty Josh Reynolds gets another chance to shine.

The Knights will field the same team which thumped the Warriors last week, with Mitchell Pearce relishing another showdown with Marshall. Edrick Lee is a handful on the wing, and Connor Watson injects plenty of energy for the Knights off the bench.

For further information please contact Nine Publicity:
Jason Evans
jaevans@nine.com.au
02 9965 2052

Thursday, March 19, 2020