Paully's Picks - Round 25, 2014

Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs v South Sydney Rabbitohs

Round 25 and this one is just the tonic needed to get long suffering crowd numbers back to somewhere near respectable. The ‘Dogs hosting the Bunnies at ANZ stadium and this should be a beauty. Canterbury captain and loyal servant for 5 years, Michael Ennis, plays his final game in front of the blue and white faithful and this should spur him on to be even more annoying than usual. Issac Luke must really be looking forward to this.

Speaking of which, South Sydney fans should also be looking forward to this one after they were shown up by the Cowboys last week. The Rabbitohs come in as very heavy favourites and should be back to their best here. Which means they will slow down the play the ball and try to outmuscle the Bulldogs pack. This will be the highlight; two very big and very aggressive sets of forwards having a good crack at each other but it’s the Burgess boys and Greg Inglis standing tall.

My tip: South Sydney 18-8

 

Brisbane Broncos v St George Illawarra Dragons

Friday night footy comes to us from Suncorp Stadium, for the last goddamn time – finally. Or, at least until next year when your free-to-air broadcaster needs the ratings in Queensland and subjects us all to this diabolical scheduling stupidity. Moving on – Saints need this one to stay in the hunt, excuse the pun, and whilst they have a fantastic record up in Vegas, they will find the going very tough here as the Broncos continue their march towards a miracle spot in the 8.

I’ll spare you the ‘for and against’ jargon – but saints gotta win by plenty to be confident next week. They won’t. Whilst Brisbane have been inconsistent of late, they play a brand of footy that will keep the visitors guessing. With the extra motivation of bidding adieu to a coach who has effectively raised many of them from pups, the Broncos should be too good here. Ben Hunt and the Brisbane back row lead from the front as Saints head towards Mad Monday.

My tip: Brisbane 24-20

 

Newcastle Knights v Parramatta Eels

Saturday afternoon from Hunter Stadium and by rights, the Eels should walk away with this one. With their season on the line and on the back of the best 40 minutes they have played in 3 years, they should march up the M1, throttle the home side and come home with 2 points and a place in the semis. But dagnab it – something happens to the slippery Eels when they go on a road trip and by the same token, something happens to the Knights when they play at home.

The punters disagree, Parra are sitting pretty as favourites as we head into Thursday and whilst I’m not one to argue with the weight of the dollar, here I go. The Knights play their second last game of one of the worst seasons in their proud history and at home over the past 3 games, they are undefeated. The scary thing is over the last 6 games overall, they’ve given up an average of just over 30 in defence. Good purchase, Brisbane.

My tip: Newcastle 28-24

 

Canberra Raiders v Wests Tigers

There isn’t a marketing team in the world that can help this one but true rugby league fans (read – gamblers) will be glued to their mobile devices to watch this one. Everyone watches footy via digital pass now don’t they? Nobody wastes their money on our countries ONLY pay-tv provider anymore do they? Of course not. So, your 5.30pm game comes from GIO Stadium in Canberra as the Raiders host the Tigers and it might be a bit too cold for the visitors but things will heat up, for a few reasons.

Jarrod Croker is in a furious battle to be the seasons leading point scorer, bless him; Mitch Cornish finally gets the number 7 jersey and this will absolutely delight Raiders fans who have been begging for his promotion all season long. If these two fascinating reasons haven’t sparked your interest to beyond supernova type proportions, then there’s nothing I can do for you. Anthony Milford the standout again as the Tigers’ suffering continues.

My tip: Canberra 20-12

Sydney Roosters v Melbourne Storm

Saturday night from a wet and wintry Allianz Stadium and this is your match of the round. The reigning premiers host the Storm but it’s a pity nobody will be there to see it. Melbourne are peaking at the right time of year, again, and the Roosters look downright unstoppable. They are at full strength and would be a terrifying sight for anyone right now except Storm coach Craig Bellamy who’ll no doubt relish the challenge of facing the chooks so close to the playoffs.

Bellamy and the Storm may not show all their tricks on Saturday night but they’ll certainly be hoping to slow this one down to a screeching halt. Cooper Cronk plays his 250^th first grade match and as with his previous 249, he’ll be quietly and subtly sledging his way through this as only Cooper can. Keep an eye on two premiership favourites getting under each other’s skin as they jostle for position before the real matches are played in a fortnight.

My tip: Chooks 18-14
 

New Zealand Warriors v Gold Coast Titans

The Warriors were shell-shocked last week at home when the Roosters taught them a footballing lesson. Now, with another chance to sneak into the semi-finals, they’ll be battle hardened and won’t make the same mistakes again on Sunday afternoon against the visiting Titans. They are $1.15 favourites and for those of you looking for desperate measures to win a tipping comp, look elsewhere. The Titans can’t possibly mess things up here, can they?

Don’t answer that. Just tip the Warriors and be done with your dreams of jagging an upset. Be done with your dreams of sneaking one back on the blokes who’ve been leading the tipping comp all year and just cos you think they’ll play it safe and tip the favourites, doesn’t mean that shit ain’t working. I’ve really gotta stop talking to myself in these ‘previews’. The Warriors play their last home game of a difficult season and say thanks to their fans with a win.

My tip: New Zealand 28-18

 

Manly Warringah Sea Eagles v Penrith Panthers

Brookvale Oval on Sunday afternoon as the mighty Eagles play their last home game of the season and bid farewell to one of their favourite sons and much loved local junior, Jason King. A true warrior of the game and proud co-captain of the club, King will enjoy an emotional farewell at Brooky and his teammates will be just as passionate. Might be just the juice Manly need to get out of their current funk. Although, they’ve only lost 2 from their past 4 and are still sitting 1^st.

So…… (take a deep breath) …….. with panic not setting in anywhere except a few commentators and league writers who can’t find any good stories cos no player or coach wants to talk to them cos they are douchebags…. the Eagles continue another brilliant season and bounce back with a win here. Oh yeah, they are playing against Penrith. Expect the Panthers to start this game well and play good percentage footy but it won’t last against a rejuvenated Manly squad.

My tip: Sea Eagles 24-14

 

North Queensland Cowboys v Cronulla Sutherland Sharks

What can we say about the Cowboys? Well, they have the best halfback in the game but more than this, they have a halfback who is not a protected species like some of his counterparts, does not hide in the defensive line like some other halves, always plays injured, always behaves like a role model for kids and has lead his team to 5 wins from their past 6 matches. That’s right ladies and gentleman, I give you Robert Lui.

Jokes aside, Jonathan Thurston could be a future immortal and as he primes himself for another shot at the title, this match on Monday night from 1300Smiles Stadium should be nothing more than a practice run for him and his crew of weapons. What can we say about the Sharks? Well, my mates recently booked a weekend at a house on the beach at Bundeena for the upcoming summer and I can’t wait. Cowboys by a bit.

My tip: North Queensland 40-0

Paully's Picks - Round 24, 2014

Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs v Wests Tigers

Round 24 is here and with the jostling for positions, comes the inevitable Mad Monday discussions and they are always more exciting. The Tigers? Well, they could end up anywhere but with experienced campaigners like Robbie Farah and Keith Galloway leading the charge, it won’t be difficult to organise a pub crawl from Leichhardt to Campbelltown and back. Before this wake begins, Wests still have to face the Bulldogs for Thursday night footy.

The poor Tigers are at very long odds. With Canterbury getting their first win in eons last week, the money is coming in thick and fast for them to destroy a once mighty football team, now whimpering into the off-season. Too many injuries and too little confidence for the visitors to be any chance here. Wet weather might keep it close but the Bulldogs should control the middle early and then unleash the likes of Josh Morris and Tim Lafai.

My tip: Bulldogs 22-6

 

Parramatta Eels v Manly Sea Eagles

Friday night footy from Pirtek Stadium where the Eels have been tremendous in 2014. Now, they get a bloody good chance to prove it with none other than league leaders and long-time rivals, the Eagles come to town. This will be a beauty. Wet and wild conditions will meet the visitors and the Eels will look to get off to a flying start. Their young and talented forward pack has usually been the catalyst for this and Friday will be no different.

So, with the Eels desperate to stay in the hunt for the playoffs and with Jarryd Hayne set to sizzle once more, this is your upset of the week. All those who are vying for tipping comp victories right now – ignore me. The rest of you – have a crack at the underdogs here. Manly were tossed around a couple of weeks back by the Bunnies and they could still be shaken up. Will Hopoate facing his old crew could be the trigger he needs to get out of his current funk.

My tip: Parramatta 19-18

 

Brisbane Broncos v Newcastle Knights

The Broncos are playing for their season here. They currently sit in 10^th position but have a decent ‘for and against’ that might be the difference. So, as we begin the inevitable discussion about mathematical possibilities to make the 8, let’s end them straight away. Even if the Broncos sneak into the finals, they will be cannon fodder for a week and then it’s on to the Wayne Bennett era, mark 2. So, fingers crossed they can have some fun along the way.

And what better way to have fun that at the expense of the Newcastle Knights. The Knights are destroying my tipping season and someone needs to sort them out. Speaking of sorting, Bennett gets a good chance to look at his players for next year and continue sorting the wheat from the chaff. I don’t really know what they phrase means but it made my point, I think. Ben Hunt continues his fantastic season and the Broncos get the chocolates.

My tip: Brisbane 28-18

 

South Sydney Rabbitohs v North Queensland Cowboys

The most entertaining team to watch over the past month has certainly been the Cowboys. Winners of 4 of their past 5, averaging over 30 points in attack over that span. Granted, this statistic is slightly tainted by that Tigers match, but the Cowboys have been fantastic nonetheless. Last Monday night’s match against Penrith was an absolute cracker and North Queensland should be commended for playing footy the right way and entertaining the fans.

Which leads us to the Bunnies – winners of 5 straight and they are the form team of the comp. They won’t get the kudos for playing entertaining footy though. Rather, heading into another finals run, they find themselves answering questions about their sportsmanship. Well, these blokes have been wrestling for years and they ain’t gonna change now. So, be prepared for some mud wrestling at ANZ Stadium on Saturday night… not that kind, you animals.

My tip: South Sydney 24-14

 

New Zealand Warriors v Sydney Roosters

Sunday afternoon from Mt Smart Stadium and the Warriors are hurting. They’ve won 2 from their past 5 with those victories coming against the Raiders and Sharks. They’ve had some tough times lately with losing games to the top teams and missing Shaun Johnson for parts of this stretch. Rookie coach Andrew McFadden will have his hands full trying to right the ship this week and his chances are looking slimmer by the minute.

The Chooks are coming to town and they are bringing with them an all-star cast, a three match winning streak and an inspirational leader that has announced his retirement. The Roosters have looked more dangerous than usual since Anthony MInichiello told the Rugby League world that 2014 would be his swansong. The Warriors better be at their best but smart money says it won’t matter. A mini home-coming for the Roosters Kiwi contingent and they’ll be too good.

My tip: Roosters 22-20

 

Cronulla Sutherland Sharks v Canberra Raiders

With ASADA and WADA finally giving us more than NADA, it’s tough for the Sharks to go farther than playing the role of martyr. Their seasons keeps getting harder and harder and whilst I’m not a tough marker, their future is getting darker. Cronulla are braver, but cracks have appeared in their armour and fingers crossed they look sharper this Sunday and play a lot smarter against a larger forward pack and a former coach who is ever the charmer.

Moving on, your match of the round comes from Remondis Stadium in the depths of the heartbroken home of the poor old Cronulla Sharks. Speaking of heartbreak, the Raiders are coming to town for a bottom of the table clash; it’s literally 15 v 16 on the ladder. Not sure how the home side can be focussing on footy here but they’ve been dealing with this shit for two years so they’ll probably be fine. Strap yourselves in.

My tip: Cronulla 13-12

 

St George Illawarra Dragons v Gold Coast Titans

Kogarah’s Jubilee Oval comes to life on Sunday afternoon in a do or die game for the red V. The mathematical equation that has been the Dragons season is, again, holding on by a thread and even though they are pronounced favourites here, it’s gonna be a tough gig. The Titans have had their own dramas with coaching changes and are now a full fortnight into life with Neil Henry. They almost knocked off the league leaders last week and will be in this up to their teeth.

Put simply, Gareth Widdop needs more ball for the Saints and if they are to sneak into the playoffs, it will be Widdop leading the charge with Benji Marshall as his lieutenant. The Titans have their own hero in Aidan Sezer who is a couple of games back from injury and will be better for it. So get set for a great battle of the halves here after two very willing packs of forwards even each other out. The Titans could mess things up a bit.

My tip: Gold Coast 24-18

 

Penrith Panthers v Melbourne Storm

Round 24 comes to a close from the foot of the mountains as Penrith host the Storm for Monday night footy. A cracker from Sportingbet Stadium. Somehow, the Panthers have overcome a horrific injury toll and looked like world beaters last week against the Cowboys. They will benefit again from a week at home but tough to see Jamie Soward playing two spectacular games in a row. He’ll be great, as he has been this year but the Storm should have something in store for him.

Look for Ryan Hoffman to find Soward in the defensive line, no matter how far wide he lines up. Yes, play some Benny Hill music in the background and watch Hoffman charge to all corners of the field to find the Panthers pivot. In the end, it won’t be fun for anyone as the Storm grind this one down to a screeching halt and defend their way to victory. You’ll see some desperation from Melbourne here as they are still hurting from what happened in Newcastle a fortnight ago.

My tip: Melbourne 17-16

Paully's Picks - Close the Gap Round, 2014.

A wonderful NRL initiative and the most inspiring event on the NRL calendar, Close the Gap Round not only highlights the issue around life expectancy rates amongst Indigenous Australians, but helps create cultural awareness. This weekend's purpose is best summed up by a quote from a proud member of the Dunghutti people.

Golden Boot Winner, Clive Churchill Medallist, Member of the Indigenous All Stars and NRL Premiership Winner, Greg Inglis talks to the Sydney Morning Herald about Close the Gap round, “By the time I leave this earth I want to see a big change in indigenous health and the communities around Australia”…”It is vitally important to raise awareness and truly understand what close the gap is”

South Sydney Rabbitohs v Brisbane Broncos

We acknowledge that this match is being held on the traditional lands of The Wangal people, and pay our respect to elders both past and present.

Seems like everyone has an opinion about Souths lately, don’t they? Apparently they are predictable, apparently this is their best chance win the competition in recent years. Blah blah blah. The ‘pride of the league’ is certainly playing some bloody good footy and that’s enough for me, for now. They’ve won 4 straight and have looked good doing it. In fact, they’ve looked a little scary since the bye week and young Luke Keary looks to have changed things on his own.

This kid wouldn’t stop barking at the Sea Eagles last week. He basically sledged Jamie Lyon for 80 minutes and by gum, it worked. That kind of bastardry will take them a long way and this week, at ANZ Stadium on Thursday night, it will get them past the Broncos. Brisbane have bounced back from some internal rumblings, it seems, and were good enough to trounce the ‘Dogs last week but it may not be enough here. Keary the standout again.

My tip: Rabbitohs 24-14

 

Parramatta Eels v Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs

We acknowledge that this match is being held on the traditional lands of The Wangal people, and pay our respect to elders both past and present.

Plenty of talk about the eels replicating their famous 2009 run into the grand final whilst across the way, their most hated rivals might be replicating something a bit less memorable and a lot more frustrating for ‘Dogs fans. After winning 7 in a row at one point this year, holding the best defensive record in the comp and sitting atop the ladder, Canterbury have taken quite the fall and are now being shat upon from a very great height. Tough times in Belmore.

Can they turn it around? Can they lift for the most intense rivalry in the NRL? It seems a mountain to climb and you can guess why. Jarryd Hayne is enjoying himself. He was too good for the greatest origin team ever assembled and more recently he’s torn apart Titans, Sharks and Raiders in quick succession. Not exactly the NRL’s elite, but really, it’s like a backyard game of footy for the big fella and he is having a ball. Not even the possible return of Tony Williams to the halves for Canterbury will get them out of trouble here.

My tip: Parramatta 20-14

 

Canberra Raiders v St George Illawarra Dragons

We acknowledge that this match is being held on the traditional lands of The Ngunnawal and Ngambri Peoples, and pay our respect to elders both past and present.

Saturday afternoon in the nation’s capital and this one has plenty of history – you know the drill. Saints have not won in Canberra since the Menzies Pri-Ministership, they’ve not beaten Canberra since before the GST existed and somehow, some way, they are favourites here. The only possible reason could be that the bookies pay no attention to history, or, that they’ve actually watched a Raiders game this year.

The poor Raiders. 1 win in their past 11 weeks and owners of the worst defensive record in the comp, they can only hope that Anthony Milford sees plenty of ball here. The Dragons, judging by their performance in a big match at home last week, could well oblige the Canberra pivot. They gave up possession at a frightening rate last week and if former Raiders Josh Dugan and Joel Thompson can’t rally the troops here, Saints are done for.

My tip: Canberra 21-20

 

Melbourne Storm v Cronulla Sutherland Sharks

We acknowledge that this match is being held on the traditional lands of The Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation, and pay our respect to elders both past and present.

Saturday evening from south of the border as Cronulla head to AAMI Park to face an un-backable favourite. Good lord, the odds are long for the Sharks here as we all pray for a quick and painless end to 2014 for Paul Gallen and his crew. Speaking of Gallen, he is named to return from injury in this match and let’s hope he does.  The entertainment value of the Sharks skipper sledging his way through 80 minutes against origin rivals Smith, Slater and Cronk will be off the charts.

Speaking of entertainment, if Melbourne are serious about this one (and of course, history has shown that they are hardly ever serious after losing a match at the death), the score could be anything. Look for big games from the Storm forwards as they set the platform early. Ryan Hoffman and Kevin Proctor in particular will enjoy running at young Fa’amanu Brown and late in the second half, things could get ugly for the visitors.

My tip: Melbourne 30-6

 

Wests Tigers v Sydney Roosters

We acknowledge that this match is being held on the traditional lands of The Cadigal and Wangal peoples, and pay our respect to elders both past and present.

Whatever is happening at Concord Oval this week, it won’t be enough to set things right for the embattled Tigers. A Mick Potter magic show? A Robbie Farah bonding session? Skills work? Fitness training? You just can’t see a world where the Tigers can bounce back from losing by 60 in Townsville last weekend to be ready to face the defending premiers on Saturday night. Even the ‘8^th wonder of the world’ that is Leichhardt Oval won’t get them out of trouble here.

But, somehow, you know they will try their hardest. The Tigers might be completely out-gunned at nearly every position, but you get the feeling that the players will stick together as they have done over the past few horrific weeks. If the chooks give half a stuff, they will have a field day. Mitchell Pearce and James Maloney would have noticed already that Cory Paterson and Chris Lawrence can’t keep up with Michael Jennings and SKD. And if you thought the Cowboys’ back rowers had a field day last week, watch Boyd Cordner and FPN unleash the beast here.

My tip: Roosters 32-10

 

Newcastle Knights v New Zealand Warriors

We acknowledge that this match is being held on the traditional lands of The Awabakal and Worimi Peoples, and pay our respect to elders both past and present.

Not again! Surely! If the Newcastle Knights somehow pull off another miracle at Hunter Stadium this weekend, I’ll pub crawl from Sydney to Newcastle for old boys’ day. For the 3 of you reading this – you’re welcome to join me. The Knights upset the reigning premiers a few games back after a week of turmoil and then, against Melbourne last week, scored two tries in the final moments to cause another unbelievable upset.

Speaking of upset, we won’t mention that Newcastle were on the right end of a 7-0 2^nd half penalty count against Melbourne but we digress. This week, they host the Warriors on Sunday afternoon and are, again, outsiders. With the visitors boasting the return of Shaun Johnson this week and the fact that they are up to their eyeballs in a race for a home semi-final, they’ll be too good here. NZ get off to a good start and hold on.

My tip: Warriors 23-16

 

Gold Coast Titans v Manly Warringah Sea Eagles

We acknowledge that this match is being held on the traditional lands of The Yugambeh People, and pay our respect to elders both past and present.

And so the Neil Henry era begins for the Titans and this bloke has a CV to die for. The architect of Queensland’s Origin attack; the architect of the Titans success earlier this year, pre injury debacle; the architect of the Cowboys’ run to the semi-finals over the past two years, before diabolical officiating destroyed his career in Townsville. Now, Henry gets his shot to audition for another coaching role and his first test is a tough one.

A challenge to get his crew ready for a very angry Manly team… And they will be angry. The Eagles were effectively pushed around by Souths last week. Their forward pack looked slow and small and completely over-powered and if they are to get back to the winners circle on Sunday afternoon in Robina, it’s their pack who will have to step up. They will. Especially with DCE and Kieran Foran yelling at them for 80 minutes. Manly bounce back.

My tip: Sea Eagles 24-14

 

Penrith Panthers v North Queensland Cowboys

We acknowledge that this match is being held on the traditional lands of The Mulgoa Tribe of the Darug People and pay our respect to elders both past and present.

A beauty to finish ‘Close the Gap’ round on Monday night as the Panthers host the resurgent Cowboys. North Queensland have won 4 on the trot, including 2 away wins and now travel to Sydney’s west to face a Penrith team with a bunch of superstars sitting on the sidelines. The bookies can’t split them. The visitors forward pack looks fantastic on paper and played like it last week, but on the road this week, it’s a big test.

Look for another huge game from Panthers hooker and former Cowboy James Segeyaro as he continues to ignite the home side; and this will get them home. Yes, I’m tipping against a team that won by 60 last week but more importantly, this is your match of the round. A classic from the foot of the mountains as Johnathan Thurston faces Jamie Soward and the Cowboys monster back row of Jason Taumalolo, Tariq Sims and Glenn Hall take on the surprise pack of Isaah Yeo and Adam Docker.

My tip: Panthers 19-18

Paully's Picks - Round 22, 2014

South Sydney Rabbitohs v Manly Sea Eagles

And suddenly it feels like September football is not just a dream – but a reality for excited footy fans across the eastern seaboard. The business end of the season is just around the corner and this game is the perfect way to get things rolling. Souths and Manly from the SCG kicks off round 22 of the premiership and its 1 v 2 on the ladder. You little beauty. The Bunnies on a 3 match winning streak and the mighty Eagles with 4 on the trot.

Manly have the edge here, for mine. They come into this match after a month where their defence has allowed an average of only 9 points against. Souths will have to be at their disciplined best to crack this mob enough times to win. They won’t. A great challenge for young centres Dylan Walker and Kirisome Auva’a against the best in the league, Jamie Lyon and Steve Matai, but this match is won with the Eagles defence and enough points via the hand of DCE.

My tip: Manly 20-14

 

Brisbane Broncos v Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs

Your Friday night double header continues with the Broncos back home for the night game and the visiting Bulldogs living on Struggle Street. The ‘Dogs have looked busted since their season’s best performance against the Storm a month ago. Their defence was grand final worthy on that wet and wild night in Melbourne but now, it seems they gave too much. They’ve lost 3 on the trot since then and their defence has given up an average of just under 30 points over that span.

Brisbane don’t look to be cruising along, either. Since playing their best game of the season a fortnight ago against the Warriors, Brisbane have lost 2 straight and only scored 3 tries total over that time. Rumour has it that Wayne Bennett is already putting calls through to Broncos management asking them to release certain players and re-sign others – how delightfully de-stabilising. Canterbury will take advantage.

My tip: Canterbury 26-14
 

Newcastle Knights v Melbourne Storm

Hunter Stadium hosts the Knights v Storm on Saturday at 5.30 and the season can’t end quickly enough for Newcastle. Poor bastards. Coach leaving, unsigned players with nowhere to go and now, the in-form Storm coming to town. Melbourne have won their past 3 and more importantly, their defence since the end of the Origin series has only allowed 8 points per game. Compared to pre origin, when they seemed to be struggling and allowed over 22 per game.

Point is, the smart coaches don’t seem to waste too much energy in April, do they – and now with Craig Bellamy and his crew showing their experience, they will be rolling right over the Knights in this one. Cooper Cronk is hitting his stride and the Storm forwards are fit and ready. Kurt Gidley returns to fullback for this match and he hates it. Cronk and Smith’s kicking game the difference and the poor Knights fans still have 4 home games to sit through.

My tip: Melbourne 24-4

 

North Queensland Cowboys v Wests Tigers

Saturday night from the tropical north as the Cowboys host the Tigers. The nastiness continues in Tiger town with the front office doing little to help their team. Nothing like a power struggle with your team on the cusp of the 8 to really rev them up for a semi-final run. The sheer stupidity of some administrators to choose winning a sword fight over winning a premiership continues to astound, but we move on to actual rugby league.

Last time they met, the Cowboys only scored 4 points, a try in the 28^th minute at Campbelltown in round 6. This time, bet on them crossing the line a few more times than that with the Tigers still in turmoil and the home side on a 3 match winning streak.  After exorcizing some demons with two away wins, the Cowboys will be playing their second game in a row at home. When they’ve had this kind of time not spent at airports and hotels, it spells danger for visitors.

My tip: North Queensland 30-12

 

Parramatta Eels v Canberra Raiders (thanks to my favourite Eels fans - @ritcho33)

A grudge match in the making since Ricky Stuart cut his rebuilding project short by 4 years and took the opportunity to return home to the nation’s capital. Tricky Ricky has worn a number of labels over his career in Rugby League as both player and coach - arrogant, intense, abrasive, champion and saviour. When I think about the great man, the word that springs to mind is ILLUSIONIST. I think about a man who in his chosen profession, in which judgement is purely based around wins and losses, has (since 2008) achieved a 23% win ratio.

10 wins in his last 43 games as coach!!! How can an individual, with such an abysmal record of performance, negotiate a 7 year $7million contract? He is the David Copperfield of the NRL. It was the refs, the players, the crowd, the weather, the bounce of the ball, the sun in their eyes, the board, Gorden Tallis’ fault……. I want Ricky Stuart negotiating my next employment contract. Illusionist. He can make a wooden spoon appear from thin air. He should have command of a stage in Vegas!!

The Eels, who have thrived under first year coach Brad Arthur, look to keep their semi-final hopes alive against Stuarts struggling Raiders. Based on recent form, they go in as deserved favourites. The Raiders will be looking to salvage some pride and avoid Stuart’s second consecutive last place finish. I see the heat, hostile crowd and biased referee assist the Eels in toppling the Raiders in their Darwin “home game”.

Ritcho’s tip: Parramatta 34-16

 

New Zealand Warriors v Cronulla Sutherland Sharks

The poor Sharks, blah blah blah, and to make matter worse, the rugby league punting community is talking about how the Warriors have not beaten Cronulla in their last 5 games. Well, what a perfect way to ensure New Zealand turn up to this match at Mt Smart Stadium on Sunday afternoon, very much aware of this. Not to mention how much they’ve improved since last time they met Cronulla; the round 5 debacle that ended Matt Elliott’s career. It all points to a carve-up in Auckland.

Shaun Johnson still out with injury and the Sharks welcome back Paul Gallen, but with Luke Lewis and Wade Graham missing for the visitors, they simply won’t be tough enough to handle the home side. Andrew Fifita continues to impress after returning but the highlight here will be Warriors bench. Mateo, Matulino and big Sam Rapira will be unstoppable when they get on the field. Not to mention Jason ‘boogie’ Bukuya primed for a big match against his old club.

My tip: Warriors 28-12

 

St George Illawarra Dragons v Penrith Panthers

A classic awaits us from Wollongong on Sunday afternoon and this will be your match of the round. Stay with me; The Panthers travel south to face the Dragons and even with the visitors sitting third on the ladder, they are pretty juicy outsiders here. Perhaps understandable considering their horrific injury toll – but the boys from the Blue Mountains were still good enough to beat the Bulldogs last week and with Jamie Soward playing against his old club, they’ll be right in this.

The Dragons have their season to play for here and at WIN Stadium with the beach breeze howling and half their team playing in front of their families, will be at their best. Benji Marshall and Gareth Widdop were quite hard on themselves after last week’s loss to the defending premiers, so keep an eye out for them tearing it up from kick off. A great battle out wide with Josh Dugan against Jamal Idris but it will be Saints scraping home in a very tight one.

My tip: Dragons 19-18

 

Sydney Roosters v Gold Coast Titans

Round 22 comes to a close from Allianz Stadium as the Roosters host the Titans for Monday night footy and again, it seems everyone is talking about James Maloney and Mitchell Pearce. The Roosters do have the worst record in the NRL with repeat sets, but they also own spots 1 and 2 on the list of individual line-break assists. Guess which players?  Wait – don’t answer that, guess who also owns the 3^rd best attack in the comp? Yep, the Chooks.

Perhaps they are not playing as well as last year but ain’t it always the way with a premiership hangover? With the announcement of the retirement of their captain Anthony MInichiello this week, the home side will be primed for this match and that will do. The Gold Coast also made an announcement mid-week but its motivational properties are questionable. Daniel Mortimer may be sharing secrets here but it shouldn’t make a lick of difference.

My tip: Roosters 32-12