The entree has been served and now it is time for the main. NRL Finals are here and we have some blockbuster clashes to dissect.
Parramatta and Penrith get it all started this Friday night.
Penrith vs Parramatta
September 9th 7:50pm
The stage is set for reigning premiers Penrith to defend their crown against a dangerous Parramatta outfit. Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary will be fired up and ready to tear in after some time on the sidelines. The question remains if he is match-fit, but doubtless, he will be an asset and an improvement.
This could come down to a test of kicking with Eels hooker Reed Mahoney a dead-eye when it counts.
Parramatta has gone for stability and consistency after an impressive win over the Storm, but it’s Penrith. They have the runs on the board, and it is the safer option to take the win here and progress to the preliminary final.
Suggested Bet: Penrith -7.5 at $1.90
Melbourne Storm vs. Canberra Raiders
September 10th 5:40pm
There is no shortage of big game experience between these two teams in one of the hottest rivalries in recent years.
It hasn’t been the most remarkable season for both these teams, but they have done enough to get this far, with the winner a solid chance to add to an impressive trophy cabinet at season’s end/
Cameron Munster is the key for the Storm and looks set to be a massive factor in this game, while Jack Wighton returns from a week off to be a key driver for the Raiders.
Melbourne may have had better lead-ups than they have here, but they have the know-how and manpower to do the job.
Suggested Bet: Melbourne Win at $1.35
Cronulla vs. North Queensland
September 10th 7:50pm
This clash between the two biggest improvers of 2022 could be the launching pad for the competition’s Cinderella story.
Briton Nikora has recently taken his game to a new level and looms as a significant threat for the Sharks, while Valentine Holmes brings some valuable experience to the Cowboys.
Braden Hamlin-Ule has the physical presence and skills to be a major decider in this game, and the Cowboys will need to contain him if they are to secure an unlikely victory. Winger Kyle Feldt will need to be at his best for North Queensland. On his day, he can be a match-winner, but he won’t be able to do it alone.
Suggested Bet: Cronulla +2.5 at $1.90
Sydney vs South Sydney
September 11th 4:05PM
The new Allianz Stadium couldn’t have asked for a better week one match-up with these cross-town rivals meeting.
Much hinges on Bunnies captain Cameron Murray to recover from injury last week, and his absence could provide a real test of South Sydney’s depth.
Sydney star Sam Walker has been electrifying this season and will be keen to emphasise his new-found status in the game with an impressive performance here, as will prolific Rabittoh Alex Johnston.
If you’re looking for an upset, this could be the one, with South Sydney armed with all the tricks in the bag to pull this one off.
Suggested Bet: South Sydney Win at $2.42
