Wests Tigers Make Bold Changes Ahead of Storm Clash
Benji Marshall has made several significant decisions for the Wests Tigers’ upcoming match against the Melbourne Storm, with a focus on addressing the team’s injury issues and improving performance. Heath Mason has been named as fullback in place of the injured Jahream Bula, while former Penrith Panthers forward Mavrik Geyer is set to make his NRL debut this weekend after being included in the extended bench.
The Wests Tigers suffered a heavy defeat last week, with Nicho Hynes leading a strong performance against an injury-ravaged side. Adam Doueihi and Samuela Fainu were forced off the field during the loss, compounding the growing list of injuries for the club and adding pressure on Marshall to find solutions.
Marshall has made several changes ahead of the clash with the Storm, including a surprising inclusion of Mavrik Geyer. The 25-year-old played 14 games for the Panthers before joining the Wests Tigers this season. He has been named to replace Tony Sukkar in the starting lineup and is expected to make his debut. Fainu’s injury has created an opportunity for a second-rower on the bench, and Geyer could be the one to take it.
One of the most notable decisions by Marshall is the appointment of Mason as fullback. Sunia Turuva filled in last week but was underwhelming from the back, prompting Marshall to move him back to the wing and put Mason in the No.1 jersey. This is a bold move considering Mason has primarily played centre for the Western Magpies in the NSW Cup. The 20-year-old has appeared in 14 games for the Tigers over the past two seasons, and Marshall hopes he can provide some carry from the back against a desperate Melbourne Storm side that has lost seven consecutive matches.
Fans are divided over the decision to select Mason in the No.1 jersey, especially since Logan Brookes has been playing fullback in the NSW Cup. This is a crucial game for the Tigers, with key players like Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes in the opposition.
Marshall Expresses Disappointment After Tigers’ Performance
Speaking after the 52-10 loss to the Sharks, Marshall was critical of his team’s effort despite being short on players. “I thought we got taught a lesson by a classy side tonight on how to run hard and how to tackle hard, how to win the field position and apply pressure – and we got dominated,” Marshall said.
“I thought we tried to play soft to try and win – you actually have to play physically. I can’t accept things that revolve around effort. Footy mistakes I can accept, but effort, no.”
Youngster Faaletino Tavana had a tough game against the Sharks and has been replaced by Turuva, who returns to the wing position. Starford To’a also struggled in defense, with Patrick Herbert coming into the lineup for the clash. These changes highlight the need for stronger performances and better physicality from the team moving forward.
