True Blue Jamie Soward casts his eyes over the Knock-On Effect NSW Cup graduate who was the best in a beaten side last round and is now set to make his NRL debut when the Sydney Roosters take on the Wests Tigers in Round Two.
The Sydney Roosters scored an impressive 46-4 win over Manly Warringah Sea Eagles in Round One but have been forced into several changes against the Wests Tigers on Sunday through injury and suspension.
Hooker Freddy Lussick makes his way into the side after Jake Friend copped a nasty head knock while backrower Fletcher Baker will make his debut in place of Angus Crichton, who was given a one-week suspension for a crusher tackle.
Baker has plied his trade in the NSW Cup since 2018 and had an impressive campaign for the North Sydney Bears in 2019 after playing 14 games, scoring three tries, averaging 29 tackles and 68 metres per game.
Coming into a world class forward pack boasting the likes of Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Sitili Tupouniua and Siosiua Taukeiaho will no doubt give the Muswellbrook local plenty of confidence as they look to make it four straight against the Wests Tigers.
The Tigers haven’t beaten the Roosters at Campbelltown Stadium since 2003.
Sowie Says
“What a game he (Fletcher Baker) had last week in a beaten side, I thought he was nice and physical. It’s great to see Trent Robinson putting faith in a young guy coming into the Roosters side, who are a top four powerhouse every year.
“Trent Robinson and the Roosters coaching staff will be keeping his job very simple. The Chooks are always so tough in the middle third of the field, so they’ll just be looking for him to keep that middle tight, make his tackles and run hard.
“I think Trent’s got him earmarked for special things, so congratulations Fletcher and I hope you have a good game.”
