The first NRL game on Friday night heads to Newcastle as the struggling Knights host the rejuvenated Panthers. Despite a diminishing chance to play in the Finals, the Knights will want to make a statement in this game. The Panthers will care little about what is occurring for their opponents, rather, they are focussed on their momentum as they move into the Finals. Before You Bet is here to assist with a comprehensive look at the match ahead.
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Knights vs Panthers Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 23
Changes needed at the Knights
The Knights had a week off last week to lament their 44-18 loss to the Raiders on the road. It was yet another disappointing display where this team was outclassed in every area. They only have themselves to blame; with just 45% possession they completed at 66%, made fewer metres/PCM’s, made 3 line breaks while allowing 7 and missed 36 tackles. Unknown about what lies ahead in the future for them, such performances will only increase the pressure on an already struggling club.
Panthers Outstanding at winning
The Panthers captured a thrilling Golden Point victory over the Titans on the road last week, relying on some Cleary brilliance to give them a chance. It would’ve been a monumental collapse had they been defeated, after leading 24-nil at HT. Perhaps complacent, the Panthers performance in this area was surprising to say the least. A 48% share of possession and a 75% completion rate didn’t help their cause, nor did allowing 6 line breaks and missing 46 tackles. Thankfully, they know how to win and undoubtedly would’ve learned from that.
Stats that matter
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Despite losing to the Knights in Round 12 (25-6), the Panthers have still won 9 of the past 11 matches between these two sides.
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Close victories have become a regular thing. In the past 5 matches between these two sides, the average margin of victory is 8.8 points, with 4 games decided by 8 points or less.
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The Panthers are undoubtedly the better team both in attack and defence this season. They score an average of 23ppg compared to the Knights 14ppg and concede 19ppg whereas the Knights allow 21ppg.
Only one possible outcome
The Knights will be buoyed by their last start performance over the Panthers but their issues in 2025 only appear to be getting worse. To win this match here, as their season slowly slips away, would be one of their more memorable victories in recent years. The Panthers will be wary of them; the Titans gave them a scare last week and they will want to avoid draining unnecessary energy in a match that they should win comfortably. Therefore, this decision comes down to how much the Panthers will win this contest by. The line on offer is somewhat under a true reflection of this contest but many are questioning the overall impact that the loss of Yeo will have on this team. That aside, the visitors should still be too strong and kick clear in this contest.
Panthers -10.5
$1.90 (2 units)
Knights vs Panthers Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Panthers 13+ - This should be a comfortable victory for the Panthers and once they cover the line, they should be able to get another converted try to cover this option.
Leg 2 = Total points under 43.5 – the average points scoring total between these two sides in the past 5 matches is 34.8 points. With the Knights struggling for points, this could again be another low scoring contest.
Leg 3 = To’o to score – despite not scoring a try in the 5 most recent matches for the Panthers and only crossing 4 times this season, the Knights are a team To’o loves to play against. He has scored 5 tries in his past 5 games against them and will want to continue that run here.
SGM Odds = $6.75 at Dabble
Knights vs Panthers Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Friday 8th August
Location: McDonalds Jones Stadium, Newcastle
Time: 6pm (AEST)
Odds: Knights $3.75 vs Panthers $1.28
Line: +10.5
Points: 43.5
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Where to Watch Knights vs Panthers
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