Paully's Picks - Finals Week 2

Canberra v Wests Tigers

How quickly fortunes can change in the Greatest Game of All. Last week, the Tigers were 30 seconds away from a huge win... a week off.... and a much needed rest for their many injured players followed by a 'home' semi final to qualify for the big one. Instead, they are heading to our nations capital to face the form team of the competition and the biggest set of forwards in the southern hemisphere in front of 27,000 Green Machine believers. The McIntyre system really bends you over a barrel, doesn't it?

To avoid an end to their season, the Wests Tigers will have to deliver the best performance of their collective careers. They must overcome the heartbreak of last week's loss and a long list of wounded troops. However, let's say they do turn up on Friday night with a full squad.... it probably won't matter anyway. The Raiders are surging and have all the momentum in this match. Unless the visitors get off to a blinding start and put pressure on this young Canberra team, they are in for a long night. Rather, we predict Canberra lead from start to finish and the party begins in Bruce.

Tip: Canberra 30-12
Result:


Eastern Suburbs v Penrith

Make no mistake - the Roosters were unbelievably lucky last week. Granted, they made all the big plays when they needed to and deserve credit for their remarkable victory, but not until Todd Carney took over did they really show any direction in that match. The same can be said for the Panthers - not until they threw away their game plan and played on instinct against the Raiders did they show signs of a being a real semi final football team. Perhaps a symptom of being over-coached?

If Brian Smith hands over the reigns to Pearce and Carney on Saturday night at the SFS, the Panthers are in trouble. If not, then we have another very close game and the Panthers are a chance. We predict the latter unfolds and the visitors stay close until late when Carney realises he can win this game whenever he wants to - and does so. The boys from Penrith do not go quietly though - and this will be another memorable finals match but ultimately, it's Mad Monday time for the Mountain Men.

Tip: Roosters 24-18
Result:


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