What a round we seen last week for the first week of the NRL finals. We now move on to the second round of the finals and everyone is getting pumped.
Last week Manly and Newcastle were eliminated from the finals while the Bulldogs and Storm played some excellent rugby to earn themselves a week off and a place in week 3 of the NRL finals.
A loss this week will mean a trip home and a few months off while a win will see the better two sides head through to week 3 of the NRL finals to play either the Melbourne Storm or Bulldogs.
Eels V Titans
7:45pm Friday Sydney Football Stadium
I would be surprised if the Titans are able to win this week after throwing away a possible win last weekend, but then again it is the finals and anything could happen. They didn’t get this far by playing badly. The only injury that the Titans are currently suffering from is the damaged shoulder of Aaron Cannings. Also, William Zillman and Anthony Laffranchi will miss this week due to suspension.
On the other hand, after the Eels defeated the Dragons last week their morale will be high and they will want to be playing again next week. They are not currently suffering any injuries and will be able to approach this match with all but 3suspended players, Krisnan Inu, Nathan Hindmarsh and Weller Hauraki.
Tip: Parramatta Eels – Over 12.5 points – Odds of $2.08
Broncos V Dragons
7:45pm Saturday at Suncorp Stadium
The Broncos played an absolutely stunning first half last weekend and then nearly threw the game away near the end getting up by only 8 points. However, a win is a win, especially when you are playing in the NRL finals. I would like to see the Broncos get up on Saturday night and proceed through to week 3. Ben Te’o will miss yet another game with an injured calf and Justin Hodges will be watching from the sidelines as his suspension continues.
The Dragons could most certainly use the win after their dismal form of late, but I really can’t see it happening. After winning the minor premiership, they were totally dismissed last week in a rather ordinary manner as the Eels cruised to an easy 13 point victory. They are not currently suffering any injuries to their line-up, but are missing 3 players on suspension. Beau Scott, Matt Prior and Michael Weyman will all miss this week.
Tip: Brisbane Broncos – Under 12.5 points – $3.35
