The NRL feature match on Saturday night in Round 15 heads to Sydney’s west with the Eels hosting the Roosters. An important game for both teams looking to gain some points during the representative period. With both unsuccessful in their last outing, they will be desperate to make amends and regain confidence. Before You Bet is here to take a comprehensive look at the action ahead and hope to find you a winner or two in, what appears to be, a very tricky contest.
NRL Round 15 Preview & Betting Tips
Parramatta Eels vs Sydney Roosters
CommBank Stadium – Saturday 15th June – 7:35pm (AEST)
Match Preview
The Eels were defeated by a spirited Bulldogs outfit on Monday, failing to capitalise on their opponents being reduced to 15 players in rotation. The 22-18 result saw them concede a 74th minute try and fail to take the remaining opportunities to level the scores. Even with a 52% share of possession, a superior completion rate (still not ideal – 72%) and key players growing in confidence since returning from injury, they failed to produce when it was needed most. Their defence has again come into question, missing 43 tackles and conceding 8 line breaks.
The Roosters had a week off with the Bye to lament their 18-16 loss to the Cowboys in Round 13. Despite both teams missing players to representative duty, the Roosters still fielding a strong side and were overwhelming favourites. Things didn’t go to plan for them though; with 48% possession and an 80% completion rate, they were unable to penetrate the Cowboys (previous inept) defensive line. They fact that they carried the ball to the same standard as their opponent (8.5m per carry), allowed 6 line breaks and miss 38 tackles will mean that they need to bounce back with a strong performance here. Form following that game doesn’t bode well for them, but this is a new week for a side which is still capable if the NRL Power Rankingsare to be believed.
Match Prediction
The Roosters have an edge in this game based on history and form so far this season. They have won 8 out of the past 10 games between these two teams, including 4 of the past 5. The form of each in 2024 has them separated by 6 competition points; the Roosters are a dangerous team and should look to improve on their previous outing. While the same can be said for the Eels, the fact that they struggled to gain ascendency against the Bulldogs highlights their shortcomings; their forward pack is still missing a power forward as part of their rotation. Hopgood may also be withdrawn closer to KO.
The Roosters are getting back to full-fitness and while they are still without some players, benefit from Watson coming back into their side. They are right to be listed as favourites ($2.75 vs $1.45). Their season averages are far superior in both attack (20ppg vs 29ppg) and defence (28ppg vs 19ppg).
The Eels are still making poor choices in defence and need to allow Gutherson to have a greater influence over his team in this area. Usually strong at home, the Eels advantage is negated with the Roosters experiencing success at this venue (63% vs 62%). The average winning margin in the past 5 games is 15 points; unlikely to reach this level, the Roosters should be able to cover the line if they play to their potential and look to key individuals wanting strong performances ahead of selection for Origin 2.
Roosters -6.5
$1.90 (2 Units)
Same Game Multi
Young (2nd) and Tupou (3rd) are leading the way for their team on the edge. They have a distinct advantage this week against the Eels, who have two wingers which they will be far taller than. Crichton has crossed 6 times this season and is one of those players who will be out to maintain his selection for NSW in Origin 2.
Young, Tupou and Crichton to Score
SGM Odds: $7 at Ladbrokes (0.5 Units)
