LIVE NRL: Roosters, Rabbitohs forced into changes as grudge match to decide finals host

LIVE NRL: Roosters, Rabbitohs forced into changes as grudge match to decide finals host

A home final is on the line when the Roosters host the Rabbitohs in a blockbuster clash at the refurbished Allianz Stadium on Friday night.

The arch rivals will take the field after the NRLW grand final rematch in front of a sold-out crowd.

The Roosters and Rabbitohs will finish sixth and seventh, it’s just the order that needs to be decided on Friday — with the winner to secure a home final for next week.

MATCH CENTRE: Roosters vs Rabbitohs live score, stats, video

Round 25

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The Roosters are flying, with seven consecutive wins under their belt but have copped a couple of untimely blows.

Star wingers Daniel Tupou and Joseph Suaalii as well as Victor Radley and Lindsay Collins are sidelined, forcing coach Trent Robinson to make some key changes.

Paul Momirovski and Kevin Naiqama got the nod on the wings, while Siosiua Taukeiaho will start at lock and Terrell May join the bench, along with Oliver Gildart.

The Rabbitohs have copped their fair share of knocks too with Damien Cook still out and coach Jason Demetriou forced to watch this clash from home — both due to Covid-19 protocols.

Campbell Graham is out through injury, with Jaxson Paulo replacing him in the centres. Peter Mamouzelos was included on the bench and Demetriou made a late switch before kick-off with Kodi Nikorima replacing Michael Chee Kam.

TEAMS

Roosters: 1. James Tedesco 2. Paul Momirovski 3. Drew Hutchison 4. Joseph Manu 20. Kevin Naiqama 6. Luke Keary 7. Sam Walker 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Sam Verrills 10. Matthew Lodge 11. Angus Crichton 12. Nat Butcher 13. Siosiua Taukeiaho 14. Connor Watson 15. Egan Butcher 17. Terrell May 21. Oliver Gildart. Replacement player: 16. Fletcher Baker

Rabbitohs: 1. Latrell Mitchell 2. Alex Johnston 3. Isaiah Tass 4. Jaxson Paulo 5. Taane Milne 6. Cody Walker 7. Lachlan Ilias 8. Tevita Tatola 9. Siliva Havili 10. Thomas Burgess 11. Keaon Koloamatangi 12. Jai Arrow 13. Cameron Murray 14. Peter Mamouzelos 15. Mark Nicholls 16. Hame Sele 19. Kodi Nikorima. Replacement player: 17. Michael Chee Kam

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