NRL Round 6

By Stephen Gallagher

THURSDAY: Storm V Roosters – AAMI Park – 22.00NZT

Melbourne took charge and got a win in very Storm fashion last week, as the Roosters go from strength to strength.

There will be a lot of eyes on the Bondi Brie, Brandon Smith as he returns to Melbourne to play against his old side for the first time in a regular season game. He’ll want to make it one to remember.

Hughes is back for the Storm will bolster their side, as they look for back-to-back wins for the first time in 2023.

Roosters have more consistency and firepower, and I think that’ll be the difference.

TIP: Roosters 1-12

 

FRIDAY – Bulldogs V Rabbitohs – Accor Stadium – 20.00NZT

The Bulldogs will still be riding that high of their comeback last week in Golden Point, whereas Souths were dire and slow in a loss a week ago.

After their one-point heroics, it’ll be tough to back up with injuries and suspensions wreaking havoc.

Souths make a couple of changes due to injury but will look to make the most of a depleted Bulldogs side and get a win.

Their attack needs work after looking a little off, but it won’t take much to fire.

Another classic Easter Friday game.

TIP: Rabbitohs 1-12

 

Cowboys V Dolphins – QCB Stadium – 22.05NZT

An important inclusion for North Queensland, and an important out for the Dolphins could really be a telling tale for this outcome.

Scott Drinkwater at the back will add so much to this Cowboys side, and a third different halves combo in three weeks for Redcliffe doesn’t help their cause.

While they both lost last week, the Cowboys who were missing a few still played well, and the ‘phins looked to really struggle at both ends of the pitch.

Could be another harsh dose or reality for the club who wears the same colours as a bottle of vanilla coke.

TIP: Cowboys 1-12

 

SATURDAY: Panthers V Sea Eagles – Bluebet Stadium – 19.30NZT

The Panthers were the first to reach fifty this season after a commanding victory in Australia’s Capital Territory, and Manly participated in a draw against the Knights in a high-scoring affair.

Defence wins premierships and the Panthers are yet to concede more than 17 this year, but the Sea Eagles have leaked some points which will raise some eyebrows around this game.

They obviously can’t concede that many against the Premiers, who will be all guns blazing at home heading into this one.

Manly just need to be more resilient on the edge.

TIP: Panthers 1-12

 

Broncos V Raiders – Suncorp Stadium – 21.30NZT

Another soft game for the Broncos as they will no doubt make it six from six to start the year. They are playing with a ridiculous amount of swag and confidence and are lighting up the comp.

I have serious concerns for Canberra, who look lost at sea and haven’t been able to get on the front foot at all this season.

Perhaps if they bring the niggle and rise to the occasion, they can put some pressure on the Broncos, but I just don’t see that happening as Brisbane plays at Suncorp Stadium for the fifth time in a row this season.

TIP: Broncos 13+

 

Titans v Dragons – Cbus Super Stadium – 21.30NZT

The Titans have managed to beat the Dragons in their last four meets, which is pretty crazy to think about.

I’d like to see the Dragons stand up for this game though. They’ve been okay in patches this season, but definitely haven’t given a performance worthwhile of a win, yet.

Titans to win and win comfortably.

TIP: Titans 13+

 

SUNDAY: Titans V Dragons – Cbus Super Stadium 18.05NZT

Fresh off the bye, the Titans still have a couple missing through injury. The Red V will want to get their second win against the GC this season too.

There’s still a lot to be found out about this Titans side, but they have the makings of a good side, but like years gone by, there are some missing pieces that halter their progression.

The same can be said about the Dragons too, but I think they offer more on attack and have more starch on defence which will be the difference.

TIP: Dragons 1-12

 

Knights V Warriors – McDonald Jones Stadium – 20.15NZT

Another match-up playing of sides who have already played this year, which is bizarre – but oh well.

This Warriors side have been turned around under Andrew Webster, there is no two ways about it.

That bandwagon is filling up, and it’s full steam ahead.

Newcastle’s last fortnight has been good for the club, with a win and a draw, but they’ve got a real test on their hands here.

Sundays at Newey hits different. I reckon this game will be just as close as their round-one encounter.

TIP: Warriors 1-12

 

MONDAY: Tigers V Eels – Accor Stadium 18.05NZT

The Tigers continue to lose, and continue to find their answers within by reshuffling players and positions.

This corresponding game last year was a win by the Tigers with a Jackson Hastings field goal, but despite being in the same position – I don’t see this miracle happening.

Parramatta will want to put in their first convincing performance of the season, and I can see them running riot over the hapless toothless Tigers.

TIP: Eels 13+

BYE: Sharks

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