NRL Finals Week Two 2024

By Stephen Gallagher

FRIDAY: Sharks (4) V Cowboys (5) – Allianz Stadium  – 21.50NZT

I can feel the finals pressure mounting on the shoulders of the Cronulla Sharks players.

And two seasons ago it was the Cowboys who upset the Sharks at Shark Park in finals week one which led to them exiting in straight sets.

Cronulla’s attack was lacklustre last week. That was because Melbourne kept them on defence for so long. The energy tank was low. They also looked a little too sideways and unsure about how to break Melbourne down.

The Cowboys will be ready to keep this streak going. They’ve played some very good football recently. Even if the first half last week was poor, they were good enough in the second to come back and make it count. A winning mentality.

It’s sink or swim for Cronulla. They have the forward pack to match the Cowboys. They have a solid back-five to start their sets. This should be a game they have confidence to win, even with all the negative headlines.

It’s going to be close.

PREDICTION: Sharks 18 Cowboys 16

 

SATURDAY: Roosters (3) V Sea Eagles (7) – Allianz Stadium – 21.50NZT

Potentially the last game for a few players representing the tri-colours jersey. That alone should be enough motivation to get the win and put on a performance that will see them make it another week.

Manly’s win last week was very impressive. They kept their heads above water, they kept fighting, and even at the cauldron in front of all those Bulldogs fans, they kept up, and overtook them right at the death. A very sweet win.

If I’m Trent Robinson, I’m making sure this side is ready to do anything to win. They have to be physical. They can’t afford to start slow like they did against Penrith. There has to be that willingness to do what the opposition won’t.

Manly are definitely good enough to get throught this game with a W. They have so many good players. They’ve got winners weaved throughout their DNA.

Their performance will have to lift from last week to face the Roosters.

Again, another close game.

PREDICTION: Roosters 30 Sea Eagles 24

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