The feature NRL game on Saturday night will head to Brisbane with the Dolphins hosting the Rabbitohs. With both teams currently sitting outside the Top 8, each will be desperate to capture a win against an opponent who could steal a Top 8 spot away from them. The desperation of each team sets the stage for an exciting contest, with fans benefitting most.
Dolphins vs Rabbitohs Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 17
Must move quickly on from last week
The Dolphins were upset 26-20 in Perth last week by the Knights, conceding a 78th minute try to lose the match. In a frustrating performance, the Dolphins were poor defensively; they missed 40 tackles. There were positives in their attack, averaging 9m per carry, having 6 line breaks and making more PCM’s. A few poor options towards the end of the match hurt their chances. The are better than that and must quickly move on.
Brave but wounded rabbits
The Rabbitohs were heartbreakingly defeated 25-24 in Golden Point, after clawing their way back from a 12-4 HT deficit. Yet again, they let an opponent jump to a lead and couldn’t stop their momentum. They gave themselves every chance by completing at 84%, averaging 9.2m per carry and making 4 line breaks. Unfortunately, the missed 30 tackles and allowed 9.4m per carry. If they wish to finish higher on the ladder, they must improve in these areas and currently, their heart and desire isn’t enough to get them through.
Stats that matter
A tricky game for the Dolphins
There is a lot to support the home team winning this match, but it is far closer than most think. Apart from the usual ‘flop’ which occurs the week after teams play the Storm, the Dolphins also need to bounce back from a loss. Enter Coach Bennett. He made the decision to give Walker one more week to recover and their star playmaker is named to return. This means that, for the first time in 2025, the Rabbitohs have named their first-choice backline. There was a lot to like about their performance last week too. They are improving each week and if they can play consistently over 80 minutes, they are a good chance of causing an upset. The attacking power at stages this season has somewhat overlooked the Dolphins’ shortcomings in other areas. They are vulnerable and at the price, the visitors are worth an investment.
Rabbitohs to Win
$2.40 (1 Unit)
Dolphins vs Rabbitohs Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Rabbitohs 1-12 – if the upset is recommended then the margin will likely be close. Therefore, this betting option is a ‘no brainer’.
Leg 3 = Munro to score – he has crossed twice in the past two weeks, proving dangerous on the right edge. He will only grow in confidence and has appeared to add another dimension to his game with his work in the air.
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