NRL: Rivals clash in Battle of the Beaches

Often referred to as the 'Battle of the Beaches', there have been some epic encounters between these two sides down the years and Saturday should be no different.

The Roosters have to pick themselves up after being blown away by Penrith last weekend, while the Sea Eagles should be on a high after knocking out the Bulldogs.

Sydney Roosters can be backed at 13.00 to go on and win the NRL grand final, while Manly are seen as the big outsiders at 19.00.

It is do or die on Saturday night and a close, intense battle looks to be on the cards, with a place in the preliminary final up for grabs.

. What: Sydney Roosters v Manly Sea Eagles
. Where: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
. When: 19:50 (AEST), Saturday 21st September
. How to watch: Foxtel, Kayo, Channel 9
. Odds: Sydney Roosters 1.58, Manly Sea Eagles 2.40

Roosters handed major JWH boost

The Roosters have been handed a timely boost as hardman Jared Waerea-Hargreaves is set to return from suspension.

The forward has a huge role to play and his battle with Sea Eagles duo Matt Lodge and Taniela Paseka could be pivotal.

The Roosters were blown away by Penrith in the first half last Friday night, but there were positive signs after the break that should give them some hope leading into Saturday.

These two sides have met on two occasions already this season and have won one match apiece.

The Roosters triumphed 34-30 at Allianz in Round 21 and it looks set to be another close game this time.

Trent Robinson’s men can be backed at 3.25 to win by 1-12 points, or 2.80 to be more convincing by 13+ points.

Their finals record is not great, however, winning just two of their last eight, so they need to turn things around.

There is extra motivation if any was needed as skipper James Tedesco is set to make his 250th NRL appearance.

The gun fullback can be backed at 2.40 to mark the occasion with a try at anytime.

Manly lifted by Bulldogs win

The Sea Eagles will be buzzing after edging out the Bulldogs by two points in a thriller last Sunday.

Head coach Anthony Seibold is sticking with the same 17 and they will believe they have what it takes to get the job done behind enemy lines.

Tommy Talau is bang in form having scored 13 tries in his last 12 games, and he will be needed again.

The winger can be backed at 9.50 to score the first try of the game, or 2.15 to grab one at anytime.

Defence has been an issues. however, with them conceding 118 points over the last four games and they will need to tighten up against the Roosters.

If they are to win, it is likely to be tight and the Sea Eagles are 3.60 to win by 1-12 points.

With Tom Trbojevic back fit and in the side, the Sea Eagles have the X-factor and a player who can step up on the big occasion.