The main event on Friday evening is a blockbuster contest between the Roosters and Storm. Such is the success which each club has enjoyed in recent seasons, the stage is set for another epic contest. With the Roosters performing well, the Storm have a tough challenge ahead for the remaining weeks of the season; they are outside the Top 8 and are running out of time to feature in September. This sets the state for a fantastic contest and Before You Bet is here to take a deeper look at the game ahead.
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Roosters vs Storm Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 20 2026
Continuing their dominance
It was a sporadic first half display from the Roosters which saw a far superior team struggle for momentum. They only carried a 4-nil lead into the break and needed to lift in the second half. Thankfully, they did, and their opponents were unable to match them. It started with controlling possession (58%) and having a superior completion rate (75%), allowing them to make 8.3m per carry and 713 PCM’s. This highlighted their dominance and created a distance between them and the Eels. It is expected that, as their Origin players return to the team, they will again improve and solidify their standing in the Top 4.
Not the usual Storm
The Storm spluttered their way to an unconvincing 22-18 home victory against the Titans last week, doing enough to capture the win when it mattered. They have a lot of areas to improve upon, an uncharacteristic performance from a club that we have come to know as being far superior to that. With 52% possession, they completed at 79%, made 8.8m per carry, had 593 PCM’s, and created 7 line breaks. Unfortunately, they couldn’t turn this into points when it mattered. 31 missed tackles hurt their cause also, continually allowing opportunities to a team that couldn’t capitalise. They need to improve as a better team will punish them for their mistakes.
Stats that matter
- These two teams met in Round 13 with the Storm victorious 18-4. This increased the Storms winning rate over the Roosters, making it 13 victories from the past 15 matches. They have a negative record here though, winning just 46% of matches compared to the Roosters 64%.
- Only once in the past 5 games between these two sides has the margin of victory been below 14 points. This sets the average margin of victory at 18.8 points, with the average total points in those matches at 46.8.
- The Roosters have an edge on both sides of the ball over the Storm this season. They’re only slightly ahead in attack, scoring 25ppg compared to their opponents 24ppg. They are stronger defensively, allowing only 21ppg compared to the Storms 24ppg.
Forget the record, the time is right for the Roosters
Providing the playing squad can also do the same, this is a prime opportunity for the Roosters to overcome their recent poor record against the Storm and capture a victory. The loss of Munster and Hughes for the visitors, coupled with the return of Walker and Robson for the hosts, enhances the case for them. They have been listed as strong favourites; previously, the Storm would have relished this situation, but they are not the same team which has taken the field in recent years. It is no secret that they have lacked punch in the middle and, when it does come, it cannot be supported by hard-running ball carriers on the edge. This will limit their opportunities as the Roosters look to control every area of the match.
The home team can be vulnerable; a complete 80-minute performance still alludes them. They have a great opportunity to make a statement in this contest. If all goes to plan as expected, we might about to see an announcement by the Roosters of their 2026 ambitions with a commanding victory which is by more than 2 converted tries.
Roosters 13+
$2.05 (2 units)
Roosters vs Storm Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points over 45.5 – see above for justification.
Leg 2 = Roosters -11.5 – it makes sense to include this option to add value to your SGM based off the above bet.
Leg 3 = Wong to score – despite not scoring in his past 5 NRL games, Wong has a great record against the Storm. He has scored 3 tries from his past 5 matches against them and will against be a threat on the edge.
Roosters vs Storm Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Friday 17th July
Location: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Time: 8pm (AEST)
Odds: Roosters $1.28 vs Storm $3.75
Line: -11.5
Points: 45.5
Where to Watch Roosters vs Storm
Watch the Roosters vs Storm match live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
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