The final game on NRL Super Saturday will head to the central west of NSW with the Panthers hosting the Sharks. Building a strong following in Bathurst, the Panthers are out to continue their strong start to the season. The Sharks will see this game as an opportunity to also build on their Round 1 victory, while having the opportunity to remind fans that they shouldn’t be overlooked in season 2026. It sets the stage for a thrilling contest and one which fans must watch. Scooby brings you his full betting preview below!
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Panthers vs Sharks Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 2 2026
Normal transmission resumes for the Panthers
Having departed the competition prematurely in 2025, the Panthers have had more time than usual to prepare for this season. Their opening 26-nil victory over the Broncos suggests they’re well prepared to make amends this season, asserting their dominance in an exciting manner. Dominating possession (58%), they completed at just 73% and made 9.3m per carry while also producing 557 PCM’s. It was a clinical display which disrupted the momentum of their opponents. Most impressive was their defensive effort, which saw them concede just 1 line break and miss only 20 tackles against one of the most dangerous attacking teams in the competition.
A win but perspective needed
The Sharks were at their dominant best in their 50-10 victory over the Titans at home, producing 9 tries and keeping their opponents scoreless for majority of the contest. The result was decided inside the first half as they lead 34-nil, scoring from anywhere on the field. This was no surprise considering they had 53% possession, completed at 80%, and averaged 9.3m per carry. Like the Panthers, they were strong defensively, allowing just 3 line breaks and missing 23 tackles. As impressive as it was though, the Titans are hardly going to worry many teams on that form. The Sharks must not get caught up in that result and focus on lifting several levels if they’re to be successful against the top sides in the competition.
Stats that matter
- The Panthers have won 9 of the past 10 matches against the Sharks.
- The average margin of victory in the past 5 matches is 21.2 points. The total points in that same period is 36.4, with 4 games decided by 42 points or less.
- The Panthers enjoy taking games to this venue, winning 55% of matches. The Sharks have played here just once and were successful in winning for a 100% record.
A tough, tight contest is ahead
Everything the Panthers produced last week suggests this is going to be another tough contest for them. The Sharks were just as good, but their result is somewhat clouded by the fact that it came against the Titans. The difference in the quality of opponent each faced last week must count for something. Considering it is still early in the season, and both are aiming to make a statement for 2026, they will want to perform strongly. Neither will be prepared to give opportunities up to their opponents. This points towards a close contest, with the Sharks offered the best chance in recent history to stop the dominance of the Panthers over them. The recent performances of the Panthers at this ground have been poor also. Defeated by the Knights, this squad will want to make amends for their loyal fans. In the end though, they will have to work hard to get the desired result, with the game decided by fewer than 2 converted tries.
Panthers 1-12
$2.80 (1.5 units)
Panthers vs Sharks Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points under 43.5 – see above for the history of total points between these two sides.
Leg 2 = Alamoti to score – he has been lethal against the Sharks, scoring 4 tries in the past 3 matches against them. Despite moving to the centres, he will again have several opportunities to make his mark on this contest.
Leg 3 = Fonua-Blake to score – usually, you wouldn’t see a prop listed in this bet, but he has the statistics to support his inclusion. Scoring 2 tries in his past 4 matches against the Panthers is great for a player who will play big minutes and demand the ball close to the line.
SGM Odds = $47.50 at Neds
Panthers vs Sharks Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Saturday 14th March
Location: Carrington Park, Bathurst
Time: 7:35pm (AEDT)
Odds: Panthers $1.33 vs Sharks $3.35
Line: -8.5
Points: 43.5
Where to Watch Panthers vs Sharks
Watch the Panthers vs Sharks match live on Channel 9 as well as ad free on Kayo Sports.
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