By Tom Primmer & Brenden Hertel

Sylvan Road will play host to an ANZAC Day blockbuster this weekend as Wests take on Souths on Sunday afternoon. 

The Bulldogs got their season off to the perfect start last round with a comprehensive win over Brothers, and they’ll look to carry that form into their first home game of the season. 

The side will have to do it without a number of their star performers from last week, with Filipo Daugunu, Ilaisa Droasese and Carter Gordon all back in Super Rugby. 

Moses Sorovi is back in action after a strong display against the Brethren, while Rebels centre Jeral Skelton has been named to start after a bulldozing bench cameo last weekend. 

Jono Kent steps in the driver’s seat at flyhalf, with young gun Mason Gordon earning a start at fullback. 

In the forwards, Jone Tiko replaces suspended prop Liam Usher, and will partner Latu Talakai and Ethan Dobbins. 

Keynan Tauakipulu, skipper Connor Anderson and Jeremiah Skelton form a dangerous backrow on both sides of the ball. 

The Magpies welcome back Mike Siaki for his first start of the season, with the side’s 2020 Players’ Player to add starch and experience to the backline. 

Harry Noonan will start at loosehead in a young but potential-laden front row alongside Theo Fourie and Phransis Sula- Siaosi. 

Sunshine Coast product Tye James will start for the first time in Premier Grade on the wing, with Luke Samoa to captain the side from fullback. 

Souths coach Todd Dammers said the occasion of playing on ANZAC Day will mean a great deal for his entire team. 

“The sacrifice the ANZAC’s made and continue to make for all of us to live the life we do should be celebrated,” Dammers said. 

“To play some footy on that day is our small way of trying to imitate their courage. It should be a great day.

“The focus has been on refreshing a little after two big contests and then coming up against a very big, physical and fast West’s side. 

“They looked very good last round… clearly high-quality talent. They looked a top -four team.”