With the NRL season reaching its critical stages, several teams are battling to secure their positions in the finals. This weekend's fixtures present pivotal opportunities for clubs both in and out of the top eight to make decisive moves. From the Rabbitohs' struggle to break their losing streak against the ladder-leading Storm, to the Titans' pursuit of a finals berth against the Sharks, the stakes are high. The Eels and Panthers renew their rivalry with vastly different trajectories since their 2022 grand final clash, while the Raiders and Sea Eagles vie for a finals spot in a high-stakes matchup. The Queensland derby sees the Cowboys aiming for a top-four finish against a Broncos side desperate to climb back into contention. The Dragons, fresh off a historic win, face the in-form Bulldogs, and the Dolphins and Warriors both chase crucial points to keep their finals hopes alive. Finally, the Knights' must-win clash against the Wests Tigers highlights a double-header at McDonald Jones Stadium. Here’s a look at the upcoming matches and predictions for an action-packed round of NRL.
South Sydney Rabbitohs v Melbourne Storm:
The Rabbitohs are poised to miss the finals for the second year in a row, sitting three games outside the top eight with five games left, and face a tough match against ladder leaders Melbourne Storm. The Storm, recovering from a surprising loss to the Dragons, are determined to secure the minor premiership, with a crucial game against Penrith looming in Round 24. Before that, they aim to bounce back against a Rabbitohs team hampered by injuries and suspensions, including key players Cameron Murray, Latrell Mitchell, Jai Arrow, and Campbell Graham. The Rabbitohs, who suffered a heavy defeat to the Storm on Anzac Day, will need to summon all their pride to avoid a 13th loss this season. I’m tipping the Storm by 26 points.
Gold Coast Titans v Cronulla Sharks:
The Titans have emerged as genuine finals contenders, winning five of their past six matches with impressive attacking play and a powerful pack led by David Fifita. After trailing 18-10 at half-time against the Broncos, they rallied to score seven second-half tries, demonstrating their ability to compete with any team. Following a victory over the Sharks a month ago, Des Hasler's squad is confident as they prepare to play in front of a large home crowd on the Gold Coast. Key players like Alofiana Khan-Pereira, Keano Kini, and Kieran Foran have helped the Titans average 30 points per game over the past six weeks. Meanwhile, the Sharks, sitting in fourth with a 12-7 record after defeating the Rabbitohs 20-6, are concerned about playmaker Braydon Trindall's hamstring injury, especially with Nicho Hynes still out due to an ankle injury. I’m tipping the Titans by 8 points.
Parramatta Eels v Penrith Panthers:
Since meeting in the 2022 grand final, the Panthers and the Eels have followed divergent paths. The Panthers, winners that night, went on to claim three consecutive premierships by 2023 and currently sit second on the table, aiming for a fourth straight title. Conversely, the Eels fell to 10th last year and are now 16th in 2024 with a 5-14 record, though they were uplifted by a stunning Round 22 win over the Warriors. With new coach Jason Ryles arriving, the Eels are motivated to finish the year strongly and build momentum for the off-season. Meanwhile, the Panthers are eyeing another minor premiership and see this clash as crucial preparation for their upcoming Round 24 showdown with the Storm, which could determine the JJ Giltinan Shield winner. I’m tipping Penrith by 24 points.
Canberra Raiders v Manly Sea Eagles:
The stakes are high for the Raiders and Sea Eagles as they vie for finals spots with five rounds left in the regular season. The Sea Eagles, sitting seventh with 27 points, are rejuvenated after a bye and the return of Haumole Olakau'atu from suspension, Jason Saab and Reuben Garrick from head knocks, and Lachlan Croker from concussion symptoms. The Raiders, one win outside the top eight, face a tough schedule ahead, including games against the Sea Eagles, Cowboys, Panthers, Roosters, and Dragons. A large crowd at GIO Stadium will honor Josh Papali'i's 300 games, as the Raiders aim for a third straight home win despite the loss of Morgan Smithies. Coach Ricky Stuart relies on young forwards to step up in this crucial match. I’m tipping the Raiders by 17 points.
North Queensland Cowboys v Brisbane Broncos:
The Queensland derby sees the Cowboys aiming for a top-four finish while the Broncos hope to climb back into the top eight. The Cowboys, though more comfortable in their position, have challenges ahead, including injuries to utility Jake Granville and forward Heilum Luki. However, co-captain Reuben Cotter is set to return after a head knock in Round 21. The Broncos, reeling from a heavy loss to the Titans, are also dealing with significant injuries to key players Payne Haas and Ezra Mam. With their season in jeopardy, coach Kevin Walters faces the tough task of rallying his team to avoid a dramatic fall from grand finalists to missing the top eight. I’m tipping the Cowboys by 18 points.
St George Illawarra Dragons v Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs:
The Dragons achieved a stunning upset by defeating the Storm in Melbourne, breaking a 25-year drought, and now aim to stop the momentum of the top-five Bulldogs. This victory helped the Dragons climb back into the top eight, but they face a tough battle to stay there, starting with a match against a confident Canterbury team that has won four of its last five games. The Bulldogs' recent win over the Raiders featured standout performances from captain Stephen Crichton and winger Josh Addo-Carr. However, they are still missing Jaeman Salmon and Max King due to injuries. The Dragons expect Mat Feagai to be available for selection following concussion protocols, making this an important clash as both teams push for higher rankings. I’m tipping the Bulldogs by 12 points.
Dolphins v New Zealand Warriors:
The stakes are high as two teams outside the top eight chase crucial points on Sunday afternoon. The Dolphins, who fell out of the top eight for the first time since Round 1 after a 34-40 loss to the Roosters, are eager to snap a run of five losses in six games. Coach Wayne Bennett, experienced in such situations, will focus on tightening their defense ahead of their clash with the Warriors at Suncorp Stadium. The Warriors, sitting 13th and five points behind eighth-placed St George Illawarra, need a win to keep their finals hopes alive. With veteran halfback Shaun Johnson returning from an Achilles injury, they aim to replicate their earlier 24-20 win against the Dolphins to secure victory at Suncorp Stadium. I’m tipping the Dolphins by 8 points.
Newcastle Knights v Wests Tigers:
The Newcastle Knights face must-win territory as they fight to keep their top eight chances alive against the Wests Tigers on Sunday afternoon. This match kicks off a double-header at McDonald Jones Stadium, with Newcastle's dominant NRLW side playing St George Illawarra immediately after. The Knights, currently four points outside the top eight with five rounds remaining, are looking to rebound from a devastating loss to Penrith, where Nathan Cleary broke a 14-all deadlock with 11 minutes left. Facing the 17th-placed Wests Tigers presents an opportunity for the Knights to get back on track. Despite a tough season, Benji Marshall's Tigers are determined to finish strong and gain valuable experience for next year. I’m tipping the Tigers by 14 points.
As the NRL season intensifies, each match takes on heightened importance for teams striving to secure or maintain their finals positions. The Rabbitohs face a daunting challenge against the Storm, while the Titans and Sharks clash with finals aspirations on the line. The Eels and Panthers renew their rivalry with starkly contrasting seasons, and the Raiders and Sea Eagles battle for crucial points. The Queensland derby promises high stakes as the Cowboys and Broncos vie for pivotal standings. The Dragons aim to build on their recent success against the Bulldogs, and the Dolphins and Warriors fight to keep their finals hopes alive. The Knights look to bounce back against the Tigers in a must-win encounter. With so much at stake, this round is set to shape the trajectory of the season, making every game a thrilling spectacle. Be sure to get your supporter gear now before the 2024 stock runs out! Jersey’s Megastore, for all things footy!
