Kevin Naiqama v Semi Radradra
Kevin Naiqama has come up against Parramatta three times so far in his career, amazingly whilst playing with three different Clubs. The Arncliffe Scots junior has played in all 15 matches for Wests Tigers this season, after previous stints at Newcastle and Penrith saw him make just 23 NRL appearances in five years.
Semi Radradra made an incredible start to his NRL career, scoring 38 tries in 40 games. The Fijian-flyer was awarded for his breakout season in 2014 with the Dally M Winger of the year accolade. Radradra scored three tries in last weekend’s win over the Dragons.
Naiqama and Radradra were teammates during the 2013 Rugby League World Cup with Fiji but have gone head-to-head only once previously on an NRL level. It’ll no doubt be an exciting clash on the flank come Monday night at ANZ Stadium.
Career Head-to-Head clashes: Played 1 – Naiqama 0, Radradra 1.
NRL Fantasy Prices: Naiqama $205,000 (Season: -$103,000; Average: 26.7), Radradra $403,000 (Season: +$77,000; Average: 52.1)
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Martin Taupau v Anthony Watmough
Martin Taupau returns to ANZ Stadium for the first time since his ‘demolition’ of South Sydney in Round 14. The 25-year-old is yet to lose a game against Parramatta, winning two from two with Wests Tigers and two from two while he was with the Bulldogs.
Anthony Watmough has been in fine form over the past two games for the Eels, making a combined 266 metres and 63 tackles against the Dragons and Storm. The former Sea Eagle has played 20 games against Wests Tigers; with 12 wins and eight losses.
Both Taupau and Watmough are two key members of their respective forward packs and will be eager to lead their team to victory and edge closer to the top eight. Look out for both players to stamp their impact on this do-or-die clash.
Career Head-to-Head clashes: Played 3 – Taupau 2, Watmough 1 (NRL games only)
NRL Fantasy Prices: Taupau $398,000 (Season: +$104,000; Average: 49.8), Watmough $294,000 (Season: -$138,000; Average: 38.5)
Ava Seumanufagai v Danny Wicks
With Aaron Woods away on New South Wales Origin duties, don’t be surprised to see Ava Seumanufagai increase his game time and step up to fill the void. In the two matches Woods has missed due to Origin this year, the Wainuiomata Lions junior has made 150 metres (R11 v Cowboys) and 162 metres (R14 v Rabbitohs).
Danny Wicks has made a successful return to the NRL this season with the Eels, providing plenty of impact up front as averages 110 metres per game. The former Newcastle Knight has increased his minutes recently, playing over 50 minutes in six of his last seven games.
Expect both Seumanufagai and Wicks to feature heavily in this match despite being named on the bench. The impact and work-rate that they provide will be key to which side wins the battle in the middle of the park.
Career Head-to-Head clashes: Played 1 – Seumanufagai 1, Wicks 0
NRL Fantasy Prices: Seumanufagai $265,000 (Season: +$75,000; Average: 27.7), Wicks $293,000 (Season: +$107,000; Average: 38.3)
