NRL Finals Week One

By Stephen Gallager

FRIDAY: Broncos (2) V Storm (3) – Suncorp Stadium – 21.50NZT

These two did the deed last week with stripped back sides, and once again the Storm were too good.

Their record over the Broncos is superior, and their record at Suncorp Stadium is just as good.

Brisbane have a young group of players with minimal experience for this time of year, but the way they’ve thrown caution to the wind all season long shows that they will approach this with confidence and flair they can bring every week.

For the Storm, they know exactly what this time of year means. They have multiple premiership winners in their ranks, and have the game plan to get it right.

It’s going to be a big ask for the Broncos to get up. Melbourne grow an extra arm and leg during the finals.

TIP: Storm 1-12

SATURDAY: Panthers (1) V Warriors (4) – BlueBet Stadium – 18.00NZT

A second minor premiership in as many years was secured for Penrith, who will go in as favourites to win their third straight competition.

The Warriors have been the darlings of the competition. No one expected this from their squad – and they will use that as motivation to give it their all against this juggernaut Panthers side.

Penrith are just so competent as a playing group. They complement each other so well and are only one person short of their full-strength side.

The Warriors are full-strength and will have to play a 10/10 game to get up in this one. They are relatively inexperienced as a playing group in this position but have players in their ranks who know what it takes to make a grand final.

This is such an exciting match-up. You can’t say the Wahs don’t have a chance – but this is going to be excellent Saturday afternoon footy.

TIP: Panthers 13+

 

Sharks (6) V Roosters (7) – PointsBet Stadium – 21.50NZT

Both sides are deserved of their finals spot, but one team has really had to work to get there over the last month.

Cronulla will take a lot of solace out of their victory last week. It wasn’t the most convincing for 50 minutes, but they showed what it takes to knuckle down and put on points when it’s expected of you.

The Roosters love to do this. Struggle for two-thirds of the season while making the finals.

Cronulla will be nervous, and rightfully so.

They are playing the same 17 from last week which is a confidence boost to the group.

For the tri-colours, they are boosted with Joseph Manu’s return from injury and him alone can make a massive difference.

TIP: Sharks 1-12

 

SUNDAY: Knights (5) V Raiders (8) – McDonald Jones Stadium – 18.05NZT

Nine in a row, the Knights are absolutely flying, their best players are back, their key players are rested and ready to go – this is a side that looks ready to take the finals series by the scruff of the neck.

The Raiders are battered and bruised as they limp into this game, but do you really think a Ricky Stuart coached side is going to roll over? 

He’ll be in their ear all week. Giving them the belief to turn the tables. I just think without some of their key stars who are out injured and suspended, it’s going to be a tough ask.

I am in awe of the way Newcastle are playing right now. They are the biggest threat of teams 5-8 for me.

TIP: Knights 13+

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