NRL Round 7 action kicks off in Queensland this week, with the Dolphins taking their home game against the Rabbitohs to Suncorp Stadium. It has been a whirlwind six weeks to start the season for them and it is big matches like this one that they thrive in. The Rabbitohs will be set to take the challenge to them though; it’s been a big week for their club, and they can complete it with a positive performance. Stay tuned to Before You Bet all weekend for NRL previews of all your rugby league action.
NRL Round 7: Dolphins vs South Sydney Rabbitohs Preview
Suncorp Stadium, Thursday 13th April, 7:50pm (AEST)
The surprise packet of the 2023 season continued their trend of upset performances, this time with a win against the Cowboys on the road. Battling an injury toll and having their depth tested, it could’ve easily been a game that the Dolphins dropped. That wasn’t the case though as they fought hard to prevail 32-22. Always appearing to be in control, a 5-try effort in the first half set them up for victory. They were superior on the stat sheet too; they had a higher completion rate (80%), more metres per carry (8.9m), more tackle breaks and missing fewer tackles. There is a belief within this team that is showing in their execution. The Rabbitohs bounced back to form in their strong 50-12 victory over the Bulldogs. Needing a dominant display, the Rabbitohs confidence returned to their attack, with their big named players leading the charge. The 9-try display was also reflected in the stats; they dominated possession (57%), had a superior completion rate (74%), averaged 9.7m per carry and 10 line breaks. They were just as good in defence, allowing 1 line break, missing only 12 tackles, and allowing 293 post contact metres. If that performance is any indication of how they will perform moving forward, they are going to be a difficult team to stop.
You cannot doubt the form and potential of the Dolphins. They have proven themselves capable on numerous occasions this season and are worthy of respect. As good as they have been, the Rabbitohs should be able to handle them in this contest. Their effort against the Bulldogs suggests that they are trending in the right direction and moving back into form. Confidence was also restored to their key players, and this is usually when they find their best performances. This game should be no different and the Dolphins, while brave, will have a hard time stopping their opponents over 80 minutes. The Dolphins have conceded the second most points of any team in the Top 8 and are equal 7th in this area. The Rabbitohs need no invitation to take advantage of this area and will aim to control the middle (and speed of the ruck) to create attacking chances. Betting markets indicate that it could be a one-sided contest ($3.80 vs $1.27), however, this is somewhat disrespectful to the home team. It will not be a complete blowout, but the Rabbitohs should win by more than 2 converted tries.
Prop Bets:
SGM – Total Points over 44.5, Johnston & Ilias to score @ $10 – 0.5 units
Rabbitohs 13+
$2.00 (2 units)
