Finals week one
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By Stephen Gallagher
FRIDAY: Storm (2) V Bulldogs (3) – AAMI Park – 21.50NZT
Spicy time of the season! The winner looks for a week off and the loser will take on either the Panthers or the Warriors next week.
Melbourne are missing Papenhuyzen and Hughes, they will feel the pinch on attack.
The Bulldogs form slump is an interesting one, and with Mahoney dropped for Sexton – that only makes this case more curious.
Storm have more experience in this field. That’s what cost Canterbury-Bankstown last year. Hopefully they’ve learnt from it.
I think this game is going to be very close. Melbourne’s defence is what’s got to improve to win. After conceding 70 in two weeks they will be under the microscope/
TIP: Storm 1-12
Warriors (6) V Panthers (7) – Go Media Mount Smart Stadium – 18.05NZT
The Warriors will beat the Panthers.
No one is talking about ‘if the Wahs win’, it’s all ‘When the Panthers win’ which leads me to make a bold call and say the Panthers dynasty ends.
The Warriors will deliver a performance of a lifetime to upset Penrith. It’s going to take all 17 blokes and it’s going to be one of those iconic finals games.
If the Warriors turn up, they will get the choccies – otherwise it’ll be like the Panthers will be running down hill.
TIP: Warriors 1-12
Sharks (5) V Roosters (8) – Sharks Stadium – 21.50NZT
These two teams have put on some great finals matches over the last few years, and we’re set for another classic here.
Lose and you’re out. Win and take on the Raiders or the Broncos.
Cronulla are looking really good, winning 7 of their last 8. Roosters with wins in 7 of their last 10 and have the highest try scorer this season on their right wing scoring for fun.
I think that the Roosters have a good enough team to make the Grand Final Qualifier. Five Origin players, and lots of guys in career-best form. They will take on Cronulla through the middle and give it to them.
Cronulla are good enough to win this. They were great against the Bulldogs last week. I just think the Roosters will pip them.
TIP: Roosters 1-12
SUNDAY: Raiders (1) V Broncos (4) – GIO Stadium – 18.05NZT
The Nation’s Capital is set for a big one!
Injury concerns for Josh Papali’i and Reece Walsh almost even out this competition.
I fear what the Broncos can do. They are absolutely good enough to win this. Their form is red hot and without Mam and Reynolds they have found their mojo. Which is great for a side with so much depth.
Ricky’s Raiders will be ready to roll. Don’t you worry. They’ve been incredible and punched above their weight all season. And this game will be no different. After beating Brisbane in Canberra earlier in this season, the Broncos will be seeking revenge.
The Raiders forwards create so much go-forward. The Broncos will have to try slow them down.
TIP: Raiders 1-12
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