After a two-week hiatus, a full round of NRL action returns and begins on Thursday night in southern Queensland with the Titans hosting the Tigers. Separated by 4 competition points, each side is clinging to hope of finding momentum and making a run towards the Finals. Momentum is key in rugby league and with both teams displaying pleasing passages at different stages throughout the year, each can produce a strong run of form. As always, stay tuned to BeforeYouBet for previews of all sporting actions across the weekend.
NRL Round 15 Preview & Betting Tips
Gold Coast Titans vs Wests Tigers
Cbus Super Stadium, Thursday 8th June, 7:50pm (AEST)
The Titans established a strong 22-16 HT lead over the Rabbitohs last week following some positive attacking movements. While there was a sense that the Rabbitohs could turn around their fortunes, few expected to wait until the 78th minute for the Titans to score a try in the second half, eventually defeated 46-28. With an inferior completion rate and lower share of possession, the Titans made significantly fewer metres, while also trailing in post contact metres. They were worse in defence, allowing 8 line breaks over 80 minutes (on top of 8 tries). This inconsistent display was the perfect summary of the Titans season to date.
The Tigers were also defeated but can hold their heads higher after overcoming an 18-point deficit with 3 tries in 10 minutes while the Raiders were down to 12 players. Ahead by 1-point with less than 4 minutes remaining, an unfortunate 77th minute penalty sealed the result for their opponents. With a greater share of possession (54%), they completed at just 73%, while also dominating metres made, post contact metres and line breaks. This suggests that the Tigers were not rewarded for their efforts or failed to execute in key attacking positions. Compared to their start to the season, it is pleasing to see this team put themselves in winning positions during matches.
The Titans have some team news which impacts them in this contest; David Fifita has been rested but they welcome back AJ Brimson at fullback and Verrills will start at hooker. Fifita takes impact away from an edge and Brimson may need time to click together with a new-look spine. The Tigers are unchanged as a 17, but Koroisau will start following a reduced involvement last week after Origin. The Titans are slight favourites for this game ($1.80 vs $2) and there appears to be little difference between these two sides. The home side has won their past 4 matches against the Tiger, with all 4 victories coming by 12 points or less (average 6.8 points). Interestingly, the Tigers have a superior record at this ground (45% vs 50%); although, that statistic says more about the inability of the home team more than anything. You only must look at the NRL Power Rankings to get a better understanding of what each team is capable of in this clash. The Titans have shown plenty of promise this season but averaging 27ppg in defence (Tigers 22ppg) is a concern. They have a better attacking ability than their opponents though, averaging 23ppg compared with the Tigers 18ppg. The recent form of the Tigers suggests they will be competitive in this contest. Assuming they limit the Titans’ attacking options, they should be able to be in with a chance of winning this contest. Their value isn’t high enough to invest on them outright, therefore the preferred selection is around a tight contest.
Same Game Multi
Either Team by 12 points and Total Points Over 47.5 @ $4 – 0.5 Units
Either Team by 8.5 points or less
$2.20 (2 Units)
