We love the mighty Canberra Raiders
Benji Marshall has fired back at criticism over his coaching style, shutting down suggestions he isn't committed enough ahead of the Wests Tigers season opener.
The club legend, who officially took over the reins from Tim Sheens in the off-season, will usher in a new era at Concord today when the side take on the Raiders.
Marshall has limited coaching experience but will have the respect of the playing group - many of who grew up watching the fleet-footed playmaker dominate the NRL.
The Wests Tigers have made some strategic changes to their squad in preparation for the upcoming showdown against the Raiders in Canberra this Saturday.
In a move that will surely shake things up on the field, Campbelltown junior Lachlan Galvin has been promoted to the pivotal five-eighth position, while former Queensland Cup standout Solomona Faataape will be making his long-awaited NRL debut in the centres.
Adding to the excitement, promising talents Jayden Sullivan, Aidan Sezer, and Samuela Fainu are set to make their NRL debut for the Wests Tigers, injecting a fresh burst of energy and enthusiasm into the team's lineup.
With these new additions, the team is gearing up for a thrilling match-up that is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
It's the sign of the Canberra Raiders' siege mentality.
While the rest of the NRL world was surprised by the Green Machine's round-one "upset" of Newcastle, Raiders coach Ricky Stuart says there was no such surprise within their camp.
The Raiders showed they clearly couldn't care less what anyone thought with a sign they hung in their sheds for the Knights win: "F**k em", it read.