Brett Morris scoring a try. Photo: roosters.com.au
A season defining clash awaits on Friday night when the rampant Sydney Roosters take on the South Sydney Rabbitohs at Stadium Australia.
The Roosters have started the season strong with a combined points tally of 86 in their first two games, however, face their first real challenge in the Rabbitohs this week.
The Rabbitohs proved to be too strong in the wet against the Sea Eagles and look to keep a positive win loss record heading into round four.
Veteran Roosters winger Brett Morris will look to continue his superb form after back-to-back three try games has him leading the league for tries scored.
Fullback James Tedesco has also had a fast start to the year with his double bringing his season tally to five.
Luke Keary controlled the game in the halves setting up three tries while Lindsay Collins (15 carries for 139 metres, 32 tackles) and Siosiua Taukeiaho (17 carries for 134 metres) also had great games.
Rabbitohs halfback Adam Reynolds dominated in the first half of their win against the Sea Eagles with his kicking game putting the pressure back on the young Manly backs.
He also crossed the line for a try before having to leave the field with concussion.
Former West Tigers veteran Benji Marshall stepped up in Reynolds place and continued putting the pressure on the Sea Eagles.
Dane Gagai (19 carries for 169 metres), Thomas Burgess (13 carries for 109 metres) and Cameron Murray (17 carries for 151 metres, 46 tackles) were also impressive in the miserable conditions.
Angus Crichton returns to the Roosters starting line-up following his one game suspension.
Jake Friend will miss again through concussion and Freddy Lussick will keep his spot at hooker despite pressure from young Sam Walker.
Jaxson Paulo has been removed from the squad due to concussion and will be replaced by Josh Mansour.
While Adam Reynolds has maintained his spot with a decision on the important playmaker to be made closer to the game.
The Roosters will be hoping to keep up their early season red hot form heading into this clash as they also look to avenge their 60-8 drubbing last time these teams met in round 20 last year.
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