An injury-ravaged Broncos side got the job done against the odds in Campbelltown last week, but face a tough ask to beat the Bulldogs in Round 8.<\/p>\n
Broncos captain Adam Reynolds was instrumental in the win which saw Payne Haas and Jesse Arthars unable to finish the match due to injury sustained in the game that will keep them out this week, joining a growing casualty ward.<\/p>\n
However, with plenty of rep experience to call on, including Cook Islands and Kiwi international Xavier Willison who had an strong game, they were able to post a 21-20 victory, thanks to a clever Reynolds field goal.<\/p>\n
The Bulldogs suffered their third loss of the season last weekend against a fired-up Parramatta side who just didn’t let them find any rhythm.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Despite some strong individual performances like 232 run metres from fullback Connor Tracey and two tries assists to Bronson Xerri and Matt Burton, it was not enough to catch the Eels who led 18-4 at half-time and went on with the job.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Team News<\/p>\n
Broncos: With Payne Haas (knee) and Corey Jensen (pulmonary embolism) sidelined, Michael Maguire’s new-look front row includes Ben Talty and Jack Gosiewksi as starting props and the returning Cory Paix (head knock) at hooker. Josh Rogers goes back to the bench alongside Jaiyden Hunt, Preston Riki and VJ Semu, who makes his NRL debut.<\/p>\n
Bulldogs: Skipper Stephen Crichton is back after missing two games with a shoulder injury so Josh Curran reverts to the bench. The loss Jacob Kiraz to a knee injury means Jonathan Sua will start the game after getting 35 minutes of game time off the bench last week. Jake Turpin has been added to the bench.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Stat Attack<\/p>\n
The Broncos have won seven of their last eight games against the Bulldogs.
\nBulldogs second-rower Jacob Preston has scored five tries in five games at Suncorp Stadium.
\nThe Broncos have lost three of their past four games at Suncorp Stadium.
\nBulldogs fullback Connor Tracey has scored seven tries in six games against the Broncos.
\nBroncos coach Michael Maguire has won six of his last seven games against the Bulldogs.<\/p>\n