As the NRL finals heat up, two crucial matchups are set to take center stage, with both teams looking to secure their spot in the next round. First, the Sharks and Cowboys, tied in their 2024 meetings, will battle it out in Sydney to determine who advances to the preliminary final. With the Cowboys in top form and the Sharks striving to regroup after a tough loss, this contest promises to be fierce. Meanwhile, the Roosters and Sea Eagles renew their storied rivalry at Allianz Stadium, each having claimed one victory in their regular-season meetings. The return of key players like Jared Waerea-Hargreaves for the Roosters and the form of the back line for Manly adds further intrigue to these high-stakes games. So let’s dive in and take a look.
Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys:
The Sharks and Cowboys are tied at one win each in their 2024 meetings, with their next clash in Sydney determining who advances to a preliminary final. The Cowboys have momentum with four consecutive wins, including a late victory over the Knights, and a healthy squad heading into their first Allianz Stadium final since 2017. Meanwhile, the Sharks are recovering from a heavy defeat to minor premiers Melbourne and need to avoid their eighth straight finals loss. Key for the Sharks will be tightening their defense, while the Cowboys' in-form players, including Tom Dearden, Scott Drinkwater, and Val Holmes, pose a significant threat. North Queensland are a dark horse in this finals series, and for that reason I’m tipping the Cowboys by 14 points.
Sydney Roosters v Manly Warringah Sea Eagles:
The Roosters and Sea Eagles are set for a fierce showdown at Allianz Stadium on Saturday as they renew their long-standing rivalry. With 23 premierships between them, both teams boast rich histories, with the Roosters dating back to 1908 and the Sea Eagles to 1947. Their last finals meeting was in 2021, when Manly won 42-6, but this time Allianz Stadium will be packed for the clash. The teams have split their two 2024 encounters, with Manly winning 21-14 in Round 2 and the Roosters taking a thrilling 34-30 victory in Round 21. The return of Jared Waerea-Hargreaves from suspension adds intensity to the battle in the forwards against Taniela Paseka and Matt Lodge. Another key figure to watch in this one will be Luke Brooks who boasts an undefeated record in finals football. I’m expecting a big game from him and for that reason I’m tipping Manly by 8 points.
In both of these high-stakes clashes, momentum and key players will be crucial in deciding the outcomes. The Cowboys’ recent winning streak and the form of Dearden, Drinkwater, and Holmes make them a formidable opponent, while the Sharks must rediscover their defensive prowess to avoid another finals exit. Over in the battle of the beaches, the return of Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and the influence of Luke Brooks could be pivotal in shaping the result. With both matches too close to call, these finals fixtures promise to deliver thrilling, hard-fought contests that could go down to the wire. If you haven’t got your supporter gear for 2024 yet, head into Jersey’s Megastore before it’s too late! Wear your colours this finals series with pride! Jersey’s Megastore, for all things footy!
