One of the most enticing aspects of the Vodafone Warriors' clash against Cronulla on Sunday will be watching two of the biggest men out on the park - Ben Matulino and Andrew Fifita.
Both players have made solid contributions to their clubs this year, despite each being limited with injury.
Matulino, who is five months Fifita’s senior, is looking forward to facing Fifita again.
“I like the way he plays,” said Matulino.
“He’s a different kind of front-rower. He’s pretty much like a halfback.
“Any time we play against him you know that he’s going to drive it up through the middle. He’s a guy that you have to look out for.”
The last time the two teams played in April Fifita was outstanding, leading both teams with 227 running metres. Fifita also passed the 200 metre mark last year when he visited Mount Smart, gaining 203 metres in an 18-14 Cronulla win.
In total metres for the season, Fifita has the edge with 1613 metres to Matulino’s 1536, despite playing in four less games.
Matulino has the advantage when it comes to finding the line, however, as he has four tries for the year. Fifita will run out onto Mount Smart on Sunday still looking for his first try of 2014.
When it comes to winning percentage, Fifita is the winner. He is 8-0 against the Vodafone Warriors, a streak that dates back to his time with Wests Tigers in 2010 and 2011.
VODAFONE WARRIORS v SHARKS
4pm, Sunday 10 August
