NRL Round 6
0By Stephen Gallagher
THURSDAY: Knights V Roosters – McDonald Jones Stadium – 22.00NZT
Big one this one. Knights looked happy underwater with a solid win, and the Roosters almost defied all the odds with an 11-man comeback job that just fell short.
Newcastle have made no changes, but the Roosters have lots of shuffling to do – with Connor Watson at 6 and Joey Manu at 1 to cover concussion and injuries.
I like what Hastings and Cogger did together in the wet last week, and this is a good opportunity to keep the Roosters down.
For the Chooks, they have to show they’re better than the two wins this season.
TIP: Knights 1-12
FRIDAY: Storm V Bulldogs – AAMI Park – 20.00NZT
Melbourne lost this corresponding fixture in 2023, which was one of the only highlights the Doggies had all year.
Melbourne are fit and raring to go, but defense still looks to be an issue after leaking 32 last week.
After a triumphant yet scary win, Canterbury-Bankstown are low on troops thanks to many injuries to key players which sucks.
What the Storm can offer will be too much for the Bulldogs to handle. Especially through the middle. The Storm definitely have them upfront.
TIP: Storm 13+
Broncos V Dolphins – Suncorp Stadium – 22.00NZT
The fans will be out in force with this big Brisbane derby. Walsh back is a huge in for the Broncos who lost Reynolds for a few weeks.
While yes, the Dolphins are top of the table – this will be a big ask against the Broncos side with their backs against the wall.
What brings some spice to this is the pace at which this Redcliffe side plays the game. They’re exceptional at long-range tries and love playing down the flanks.
There’s no doubting that Brisbane don’t want to lose to little brother – so there’s plenty on the line.
TIP: Broncos 1-12
SATURDAY: Warriors V Sea Eagles – Go Media Mount Smart Stadium – 17.00NZT
Yes, they only beat the Rabbitohs – but it was the way they beat the Rabbitohs which was impressive.
The Warriors, despite conceding an early try were in control for 75 minutes. They’ll need to do the same against Manly who are hot and cold every other week.
That spirited win over the Panthers had plenty of emotion for Cherry-Evans’ record-breaking match. What they need to do now is put that performance in this week to show that Manly aren’t just one-hit wonders.
Really liking the consistency from this Wahs outfit. They won’t perform any lower than a 7/10 as a unit.
It’s up to Manly whether or not they’ll turn up and compete.
TIP: Warriors 1-12
Eels V Cowboys – CommBank Stadium – 19.30NZT
After last week’s performance, the Eels will be looking for a G Shock sponsorship because it was a tough watch for their fans.
The Cowboys were never really challenged by the Titans, but again, they leak points which can only frustrate them.
Brad Arthur has dropped a couple of players, but I don’t know if it’ll get the response of the playing group.
This is the sort of game Parra can and will win, though.
North Queensland can’t be complacent. They can’t fall asleep with 30 minutes to go like they have been. They have to deliver a full 80 and really hurt the Eels.
TIP: Cowboys 1-12
Rabbitohs V Sharks – Accor Stadium – 21.35NZT
Well, this is now or never for South Sydney. Playing some of the worst football they have with a great roster is incredibly concerning for this famous side.
Just have a bloody dig. That’s all you need to do!
Cronulla could easily slip on this banana-peel of a fixture, especially after a week off. I’m sure they would have talked about it during the week as a group.
Reckon this Sharks side could easily put 50 on if Souths don’t fire a shot.
Something has to give. Their attack has to change. It’s so stale and unimaginative. The Rabbitohs could be in trouble and without a coach after this one.
TIP: Sharks 13+
SUNDAY: Tigers V Dragons – Campbelltown Sports Stadium – 18.00NZT
Got a good feeling about this one – hell, I’m calling it game of the round!
Two sides that haven’t had much luck in the last decade, with plenty of hope on this season and potentially a bright light at the end of the tunnel – there will be points on offer in Campbelltown.
Wests will be able to win this if they are able to keep the pressure on. We’ve seen the Red V turn to mush on occasions in 2024.
For Saint George Illawarra, they lost last week – so will probably win this week. No one can get a read on them and you’ll know whether or not they’re on after five minutes.
TIP: Dragons 1-12
Raiders V Titans – GIO Stadium – 20.15NZT
I’m calling it. The Raiders, after winning every game by the 1-12 margin last year will go on and win every game this year 13+.
The Titans suck. To quote Homer Simpson “I’ve seen teams suck before, but they were the suckiest bunch of sucks that ever sucked”
No, not really – but I do love that episode (S7E12 for those playing along at home)
When will Des Hasler get a response out of his side? It hasn’t happened yet, and it doesn’t look like happening against the Raiders. They’ll be far too good.
TIP: Raiders 13+
BYE: Penrith Panthers
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