As the NRL finals heat up, several blockbuster matchups are set to determine which teams advance in the competition. The defending champions, Penrith Panthers, face the Sydney Roosters in a high-stakes clash at BlueBet Stadium, while the Melbourne Storm meet the Cronulla Sharks in a rematch of their fierce 2018 finals showdown. The North Queensland Cowboys take on the Newcastle Knights in their first-ever finals encounter, promising an exciting display of attacking football. Meanwhile, the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs and Manly Warringah Sea Eagles reignite their rivalry in a knockout semi-final, with both sides determined to keep their premiership dreams alive. Here's a breakdown of each game and my predictions for the outcomes.
Penrith Panthers v Sydney Roosters:
The Panthers face a crucial challenge on Friday when they host the Roosters in the final game at BlueBet Stadium before its redevelopment. Aiming for a fourth consecutive premiership, they hope to secure another win while awaiting the potential return of star player Nathan Cleary, who is recovering from a shoulder injury. If Cleary sits out, Jarome Luai is expected to lead the team. Meanwhile, the Roosters, boasting big names like James Tedesco and Luke Keary, seek their first win at the venue since 2017, with several players from that victory still in the squad. However the Roosters will be without Sam Walker, Victor Radley and Brandon Smith, which may prove to be a brutal blow for the Tri-Colours. I’m tipping the Panthers by 14 points.
Melbourne Storm v Cronulla Sharks:
The Storm and Sharks meet in a finals showdown for the first time since 2018, when Melbourne knocked out Cronulla before losing the grand final to the Roosters. Their rivalry dates back to the Sharks' first premiership win in 2016, where they edged out the Storm in a thrilling decider. In 2024, the Sharks were one of only two teams to beat Melbourne at AAMI Park, securing a 25-18 win in Round 10. The Storm are bolstered by the return of Ryan Papenhuyzen, while the Sharks welcome back Oregon Kaufusi. The winner will be one step away from the grand final, while the loser gets another chance in the finals. I’m tipping Melbourne by 8 points.
North Queensland Cowboys v Newcastle Knights:
The first-ever finals clash between the Cowboys and Knights promises an exciting display of attacking football, with Val Holmes and Scott Drinkwater facing off against Kalyn Ponga and Bradman Best. While the forwards will aim to control the early stages, the game is expected to open up for high-scoring action. The Cowboys, who have won six of their last seven games, have been averaging 31 points per game, while the Knights secured eighth place with strong performances in recent rounds. In their only meeting this season, the Cowboys edged out the Knights 21-20 in Round 2. Jake Clifford and Tom Dearden will look to capitalize on any fatigue in the Knights' defense in the Townsville heat. I’m tipping the Cowboys by 16 points.
Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs v Manly Warringah Sea Eagles:
The Bulldogs and Sea Eagles face off in a knockout semi-final just two weeks after Manly's impressive 34-22 win over Canterbury. The Bulldogs head into their first finals appearance since 2016 after losing their last two games, while Manly has been inconsistent, losing three of their past six matches, including a surprising defeat to the Wests Tigers. Both teams will be boosted by key returns, with Matt Burton and Josh Addo-Carr back for the Bulldogs, and Tom Trbojevic set to return for Manly. Historically, the Bulldogs have the edge in finals, winning four of five previous encounters, including the 1995 grand final. This clash promises to be an exciting battle between two attacking teams looking to extend their premiership hopes. I’m tipping the Dogs by 7 points.
As the finals action intensifies, each of these matchups is set to deliver thrilling moments and crucial turning points in the race for the premiership. The Panthers, Storm, Cowboys, and Bulldogs will look to capitalize on home ground advantage and recent form, while the Roosters, Sharks, Knights, and Sea Eagles aim to defy the odds and keep their campaigns alive. With star players returning and past rivalries reigniting, this weekend's games promise to be a feast for rugby league fans. Based on form and key factors, I'm tipping victories for the Panthers, Storm, Cowboys, and Bulldogs, but in finals football, anything can happen. Make sure you get into Jerseys Megastore now to get all your last minute finals footy supporter wear to show your colours with pride. Jerseys Megastore, for all things footy!
