There are just two NRL games this Super Saturday, with one moved to Tuesday. The first will take place in New South Wales as the Bulldogs host the Sharks. Both experienced vastly different outcomes in their matches last week and, as evident in the NRL Power Rankings, are trending in different directions. The second match heads north to Townsville, as the struggle Cowboys look to get their season heading in the right direction against a resilient Knights team. Both games should make for intriguing viewing.
NRL Round 8 Saturday Preview & Betting Tips
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs vs Cronulla Sharks
Saturday 22nd April, Accor Stadium, 5:30pm (AEST)
Things are getting tough at the Bulldogs. With a growing injury toll, they were comprehensively outplayed by the Eels, eventually defeated 30-4. Trailing 16-nil at HT, the Bulldogs were rarely in with a chance of winning. They only have themselves to blame too; with a lesser share of possession (47%), they completed at 68%, made significantly less metres and had only 2 line breaks. Missing 30 tackles also didn’t help their cause either. It was a vastly different story for the Sharks, who bounced back from a poor defeat in Round 5 to upset the Roosters 22-12 at home. Even with a few players missing, they dragged their opponents into an arm wrestle and prevailed on renewed effort and structure in their defence. They also created more chances in attack, making 8 line breaks compared to just 3 for the Roosters. The odds favour the Sharks in this contest ($5.20 vs $1.16) and it is no surprise given the injuries currently experienced at the Bulldogs; you would be forgiven for not recognising some of their names. You must go searching for value to invest on this match as a Sharks victory does appear a likely outcome. Recent history isn’t favouring the Bulldogs either; they have defeated the Sharks just once since 2015 and the past 2 victories for the Sharks have come as the away team. The line is carefully set at 14.5 and if both sides play to their potential, the Sharks defence should limit their opponents’ attacking options and cover it. It will probably not happen until the final quarter of the match but hang in there for this result.
Same Game Multi
Sharks 13+, Over 41.5 points, Ramien & Mulitalo to score @ $6 – 1 unit
Sharks -14.5
$1.90 (2.5 Units)
North Queensland Cowboys vs Newcastle Knights
Saturday 22nd April, Queensland Country Bank Stadium, 7:35pm (AEST)
As highlighted in the NRL Power Rankings, things are beginning to get desperate for the Cowboys. They were defeated 22-14 in Round 7 by the Warriors in New Zealand, failing to capitalise on possession (56%) and a higher completion rate (86%). This points to a failing attack in positive field position. Also, their defensive structure needs improvement, highlighted by 37 missed tackles in that match. The Knights were also defeated but can be proud of their effort in their 15-14 Golden Point loss to the Panthers. Barely given a chance, the Knights lead 14-6 at HT but were unable to generate any points in the second half. The fact that they scored 3 tries (compared to the Panthers 2) demonstrates just how positive a performance that was. They were also behind in just about every statistic but most notably possession (43%) and completion rate (67%). This is a tricky contest to invest on with any confidence. In fact, there are better options available this weekend. There are too many variables, highlighted by the fact that the Cowboys are favourites ($1.70 vs $2.15). This is considering that the home team has won the past 9 matches between these two teams. In equal measure, it overlooks the team changes; the Cowboys are without Taumalolo (McLean does return) while the Knights welcome back Ponga and Saifiti. Another reason to stay away from this contest. The past 3 matches have also been won by an average of 16 points, suggesting that this game might also not be as close as we think (or the bookies are suggesting). If you must, invest around a high scoring game and for the total points margin to eclipse 40 points. Otherwise, sit back and enjoy an unpredictable game of rugby league.
Same Game Multi
Holmes & Gagai to score @ $10 – 0.5 units
Over 40.5 Points
$1.90 (0.5 Units)
