The business end of the season is here, and every point is more valuable than gold. With the top eight still far from settled, and several teams clinging to their finals hopes by the thinnest of margins, this weekend promises fireworks. From heavyweight showdowns to desperate bottom-of-the-ladder battles, here’s how we see Round 24 shaping up.
Penrith Panthers v Melbourne Storm
The Panthers haven’t lost since Round 12, and with finals around the corner, they’ll be sharpening their claws. Melbourne, however, are no strangers to causing upsets in Sydney, especially if they can unleash Harry Grant and Cameron Munster’s attacking spark. This could well be a grand final preview, but with Nathan Cleary steering the ship, Penrith’s discipline and defensive wall give them the edge. I’ll be tipping the Panthers by 8!
New Zealand Warriors v St George Illawarra Dragons
The Warriors’ Auckland fortress has been pretty intimidating this year, and against a Dragons outfit that has struggled on the road, they’ll fancy their chances. The Warriors attacking game could keep the visitors pinned down, while James Fisher-Harris will be a handful through the middle. The Dragons will fight, but the Warriors’ home crowd might prove too much. I’m tipping the Warriors by 10!
Sydney Roosters v Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
The Roosters are peaking at the right time, finding attacking rhythm with James Tedesco and Mark Nawaqanitawase in fine form. The Bulldogs have improved in their attack this season, and their defensive system is rock solid. A fascinating match up is in store. What will give first, the defensive line of the Dogs or a Chooks backline that thrives on quick shifts. Expect an arm wrestle early before the Dogs pull away. I’m tipping the Bulldogs by 4 points.
Cronulla Sharks v Gold Coast Titans
The Sharks have been hot-and-cold lately, but a clash with the inconsistent Titans is a golden chance to bank two points. Nicho Hynes will look to control proceedings, while the Gold Coast’s expansive style could backfire if they can’t complete sets. Unless the Titans find a way to contain Cronulla’s middle rotation, this could get away from them quickly. I’m tipping the Sharks by 18 points.
Brisbane Broncos v Dolphins
The Battle of Brisbane has quickly become one of the NRL’s spiciest rivalries. The Broncos were pushing hard for a top-four spot and had the firepower out wide to punish any lapse in concentration before Adam Reynolds and Ezra Mam went down in the same play! The Dolphins, led by Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow’s electric pace, will throw plenty at their big brother but if Brisbane’s pack wins the middle, it’s game over. I’ll be tipping the Broncos by 14 points.
South Sydney Rabbitohs v Parramatta Eels
Souths’ season has been a rollercoaster, but with Latrell Mitchell back in the mix, their attack immediately looks more dangerous. The Eels, meanwhile, need this win to keep faint finals hopes alive, and their forward pack could cause headaches for the Bunnies. If Zac Lomax and Mitchell Moses click early, the Rabbitohs could be chasing their tails early. I’ll be tipping the Eels by 10 points.
Wests Tigers v Manly Warringah Sea Eagles
The Tigers have shown flashes of fight lately, but Manly’s outside backs should have a field day if Daly Cherry-Evans gets time to dictate play. Luke Brooks will be desperate to put on a show against his former side, and Wests’ best hope lies in winning the grind early. However, Manly’s experience and kicking game could prove decisive. I’ll be tipping the Sea Eagles by 16 points.
North Queensland Cowboys v Newcastle Knights
Both teams are in the thick of fighting to keep their season alive, making this a high-stakes showdown. The Cowboys’ pack led by Jason Taumololo, will try to overpower the Knights, while Newcastle’s back six magic can change the game in an instant. This one could swing either way, but home-ground advantage in Townsville might tip it. I’ll be tipping the Cowboys by 4 points.
With heavyweight clashes, grudge matches, and season-defining battles on the menu, Round 24 has all the makings of a classic. Whether you’re backing the favourites or chasing the upset, every game will have a storyline worth following. Strap in, the run to finals is only getting hotter. Make sure you’re fully geared up in all the latest officially licensed supporter gear from Jersey’s Megastore, for all things footy!
