Kasiano and Graham return in Bulldogs boost

by NRL

The Bulldogs stocks have received a boost ahead of Friday's blockbuster with the Wests Tigers at ANZ Stadium thanks to the return from injury of workhorses Sam Kasiano and James Graham.

Both players make their return to the starting 17 after layoffs with injuries. Kasiano will make his comeback after sustaining a cheek injury in the Bulldogs round 20, 20-12 win over the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles at Brookvale Oval. Whilst Graham returns to the team following a minor leg injury sustained in the Bulldogs clash versus the Newcastle Knights which saw him miss the Bulldogs last start.

Local product Martin Taupau, who last week notched up his 100th club game, has been named on an extended bench alongside Joel Romelo.

The Bulldogs who are aiming for their 12th straight victory will be playing in front of a home crowd at ANZ Stadium, with officials expecting a packed house fit for an NRL top eight showdown. The Wests Tigers currently sit eighth on the ladder equal on points with the Brisbane Broncos, but with a number of teams hot on their heels.

The night doubles as the Bulldogs Annual Salvation Army Food Drive with all spectators and supporters are encouraged to bring a canned or non-perishable food item to donate in food bins which will be located at the entry gates.

CANTERBURY v WESTS TIGERS
ANZ Stadium
Friday 17/08/12
7.40pm

Canterbury: Ben Barba, Sam Perrett, Josh Morris, Krisnan Inu, Jonathan Wright, Josh Reynolds, Kris Keating, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis [c], Sam Kasiano, Frank Pritchard, Josh Jackson, Greg Eastwood. Subs: James Graham, Dale Finucane, Corey Payne, David Stagg, Joel Romelo, Martin Taupau (two to be omitted).

Wests Tigers: Tim Moltzen, Matt Utai, Blake Ayshford, Beau Ryan, Marika Koroibete, Liam Fulton, Benji Marshall, Aaron Woods, Robbie Farah [c], Keih Galloway, Adam Blair, Gareth Ellis, Chris Heighington. Subs: Junior Moors, Ray Cashmere, Matt Bell, Tim Simona, Ben Murdoch-Masila (one to be omitted).

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