80 words in 80 minutes. NRL round 17
0By Stephen Gallagher
Thursday, July 5
Storm v Dragons, AAMI Park, 21.50NZT
11 Origin players missing between these two teams makes the playing field somewhat even I think.
The Storm are always hard to beat at home, and would like to peg the Dragons back after the Red V put on a polished performance last time these two met.
The Dragons back 5 is still very strong and full of points. The Storm will have to be wary of that.
Cameron Smith and Gareth Widdop will be the two important players for each club to decide this result.
TIP: Storm 1-12
Friday, July 6
Panthers v Warriors, Panthers Stadium, 21.50NZT
The Warriors will want to put on a massive display after an officiating error cost them a win last week.
They never fare too well in Penrith, and would have nightmares of the comeback the Panthers produced last time they played there.
Penrith have their biggest names missing, while the Warriors are only missing Harris through injury.
The New Zealand side would like to have a shot at the top four, and a win in this match will go a long way.
TIP: Warriors 1-12
Saturday, July 7
Bulldogs v Raiders, Belmore Sports Ground, 21.30NZT
The Bulldogs were surprise winners last week, and will take that in their stride going forward.
The Raiders lived up to their “Faiders” nickname once again with a solid start, but ran out of gas at half time.
Only one Origin representative in each side, so there’s plenty of talent on display.
The Raiders are still a slight chance of making the top eight, but a loss here would basically end that.
Good to see another match held at Belmore.
TIP: Raiders 1-12
Sunday, July 8
Titans v Broncos, CBus Super Stadium, 18.10NZT
Both sides backing up after a much needed win last week.
Titans missing two, and Broncos missing four Origin players means that the Titans could sneak a win here, though it still will be hard work.
The Titans have shown small glimpses of what they can do, and beat the Broncos earlier this season.
Brisbane just have to win the forward battle. Gold Coast are a bit small up front, and if the Broncos boppers can take advantage of that, it could be a walk over.
TIP: Broncos 1-12
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