The first game on a blockbuster Friday night of NRL action begins in Sydney’s south with the Sharks hosting the Roosters in a crucial clash. Separated only by a points difference on the competition ladder, these two sides will be desperate to grab a victory. It sets the stage for an exciting match and fans will enjoy everything this game has to offer. Before You Bet is here to take a comprehensively look at the contest with the aim of finding you a winner or two to add to your viewing enjoyment.
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Sharks vs Roosters Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 20
Rediscovering their form
The Sharks recorded a much-needed 24-12 victory over the Dolphins at home last week, making it their 2nd win from their past 6 matches. For a team that has played well for stages of this season, they have looked inept in recent weeks. In this game, they controlled possession (54%) and had a decent (enough) completion rate (78%) which allowed them to build pressure. They ran the ball strongly with 9.8m per carry which allowed them to make 6 line breaks. A similar effort is needed if their winning form is to continue.
Still not at their best
Questions remain about the potential of the Roosters, a team which promises so much and delivers performances which are at opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of quality. Their recent 31-24 victory of the Dragons encompassed that as they conceded a high number of points and only sealed victory with a 77th minute try. They had just a 78% completion rate, made 9.4m per carry and 5 line breaks. Defensively, they missed just 21 tackles but still allowed 552 PCM’s. Consistency still eludes this talented team.
Stats that matter
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The Sharks and Roosters have identical records at this ground, both performing at 58%.
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Despite 3 games decided by 10 points or less, the average margin of victory between these two sides in their past 5 matches is 13 points.
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The Sharks score and concede and equal number of points (22ppg). The Roosters score 25ppg in attack and concede 23ppg in defence.
Tight match ahead
Despite the Round 12 match being won 42-16 by the Roosters, this game looks set to be a tight contest. There is little to separate these two sides in several areas, and it makes the decision of finding a winner challenging. The two sides should be far closer than the odds have them. Perhaps the naming of Townsend at 5/8 has made some punters wary. The Roosters recruit hasn’t been sighted since he was dropped earlier in the year and with an injury to Savala, they need a replacement. The Sharks will know what is on offer if their former playmaker lines up in this contest. The Sharks undoubtedly have an edge – they are boosted by the 200th game of prop Fonua-Blake – but it is only a small one. This game could go down to the final 5 minutes before a winner is decided. Therefore, this should be used to your advantage.
Either Team by 10 points or less
$2.10 (1.5 units)
Sharks vs Roosters Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points under 48.5 – the average total between these two sides in their past 5 matches is 47.4 points. Despite the Round 12 match totalling 58 points, a tighter game is anticipated with the Finals ahead.
Leg 2 = B. Smith to score – he is a man in form for the Roosters, scoring 3 tries from his past 2 matches. The Sharks sometimes leak points on their edges so look for Smith to again put himself in a strong position to score.
Leg 3 = Nikora to score – it has been a few quiet weeks for the strong edge back rower. He has just 1 try from the past 5 matches but he still sits 3rd for the Sharks with 7 tries for the season. It won’t be long until he rediscovers his try scoring form.
SGM Odds = $21 at Dabble
Sharks vs Roosters Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Friday 18th July
Location: Sharks Stadium, Sydney
Time: 6pm (AEST)
Odds: Sharks $1.70 vs Roosters $2.10
Line: -2.5
Points: 48.5
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Where to Watch Sharks vs Roosters
Watch the Sharks vs Roosters match live on Channel 9 as well as ad free on Kayo Sports.
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