Rugby League / James Cleary / 11 June 2010 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market

James Cleary sees a titanic struggle in the game when the Titans meet the Sea Eagles this weekend.

The Gold Coast Titans host the Sea Eagles, hoping to get their top-four bid back on track as the second half of the campaign kicks off.

Indeed, both sides will be keen to get back to winning ways after suffering defeats last time out, with the home side now having lost three on the spin.

The Titans were defeated 28-24 by Canberra, although they will go into this one with some confidence having battled back from a 22-6 half-time deficit.

Meanwhile, Manly went down 22-6 at home to the Broncos, again struggling in the second 40.

Both sides have an identical league record - having won seven and lost five, although the Titans, who have won four of their six at home, have a negative points average. The Sea Eagles, who have the second best defence in the NRL, will go into this one with confidence, having won their last four on the road.

Last time out between these sides, the Titans were 24-22 winners at Manly in late April, with Sea Eagles 38-4 winners in September 2009. Last time at Skilled Park, the home side were controversial 18-17 winners thanks to a last-gasp Scott Prince penalty - the Titans' only two wins in six fixtures between the teams.

Veteran Mat Rogers returns to the Titans' starting 13, having missed the last couple of months with a knee problem and Sam Tagateese also returns. Coach John Cartwright has also called up forward Bodene Thompson (for Origin player Ashley Harrison) and new faces Luke O'Dwyer, William Zillman and Ryan James. However, Joseph Tomane (shoulder), Clinton Toopi and Will Matthews (concussion) miss out.

Manly are without key men Jamie Lyon and Anthony Watmough (injury), while centre Steve Matai continues to serve his suspension. Jason King, having missed out on State of Origin duty, will at least strengthen the pack should he be selected, with Brent Kite waiting in the wings. Chris Bailey also comes into the second row.

Much could hinge on the performances of two of the NRL's top tacklers in the form of the Titans' Nathan Friend and Matt Ballin of Manly, both of who missed out on Origin selection. Defence and discipline are likely to be key - the Titans have slipped in this department in recent weeks, conceding more than 20 points every game. The Sea Eagles have been much more solid, but with several stars out they will be tested more than they have been so far this season.

The return of Rogers should prove the catalyst for the home side. Despite their impressive road form, Jamie Lyon's continued absence together with Anthony Watmough and Steve Matai could see Manly face a tall order.

I would take the Sea Eagles by 12 to bounce back.

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