NRL Finals Week 1
Panthers vs Eels
September 9th
All is in readiness for the mighty Panthers to kick off their back-to-back campaign against the Eels. After serving his suspension, Nathan Cleary will be champing at the bit to make a splash for Penrith. Missing a few weeks will have given him time to freshen up, but he’d be hoping he hasn’t lost any touch. Time will tell.
This could come down to skills by foot, with Eels hooker Reed Mahoney a trustworthy option in front of the uprights.
Paramatta has gone for an unchanged lineup after knocking off the Storm, but Penrith knows how to get the job done to win through to the preliminary final.
SUGGESTED BET:
Nathan Cleary Anytime Tryscorer at $3.25
Storm v Raiders
September 10th
These teams have recently had an abundance of crucial clashes, and the record shows they know how to win in high-stakes games.
While neither side is coming off their best regular season campaigns, they have done enough to get this far, and both are threats to winning the premiership no matter how they went during the season.
Cameron Munster sets the tone for the Storm and will be in front of mind for his opponents, while Jack Wighton returns from a week off to add a significant element for the Raiders.
Melbourne has looked shaky at times this year, but they have the experience, the stars and the drive to win this one and be a force in the finals.
SUGGESTED BET:
Storm to win by more than 13 at $2.25
Sharks vs Cowboys
September 10th
This is a clash between two sides who have had incredible comebacks from a disappointing 2021. Both look dangerous going into the finals.
Briton Nikora has risen the ranks this season and looms as a significant threat for the Sharks, while the experienced Valentine Holmes is crucial to the Cowboys’ chances.
Braden Hamlin-Ule loves the contest and has the talent to play an important role, and the Cowboys will need to contain him if they are to secure the win. Winger Kyle Feldt will need to bring his A-game for North Queensland. He can turn a match on its head but needs support from teammates to get over the line here.
SUGGESTED BET:
Sharks win by 1-12 at $3.15
Roosters vs. Rabbitohs
September 11th
The newly-opened Allianz Stadium is host to a cracking game of finals footy between two powerhouses of the competition.
Much depends on Bunnie’s captain Cameron Murray to bounce back from injury last week, and South Sydney will be counting on him to bounce back in time as his leadership is needed with so much on the line.
Sydney star Sam Walker has torched opponents this season and will be keen to add to his newfound credentials in the game with another starring role and critical Rabittoh Alex Johnston.
If you’re looking for value this week, you may find it here, with South Sydney a real chance to cause an upset.
