NRL Super Saturday gets off to a blockbuster start this week with the Sharks hosting the Raiders. Each team will be motivated by their performances last week to win this contest. For the home side, they will want to consolidate their standing in the Top 4; meanwhile, the Raiders are clinging to a spot in the Top 8. This ensures a thrilling contest is ahead and Before You Bet is here to add to your enjoyment with a preview of what is ahead in this match.
Also, Before You Bet will be providing free previews and betting tips for EVERY game in the 2026 NRL season, so make sure to head over to our NRL Tips regularly to keep up to date with all of our free content.
Sharks vs Raiders Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 24 2026
Wounded Sharks struggle
They lost a derby match last week 24-16 on the road to the Dragons last week, with that result hurting far more than just 2-competition points. Insipid with their attack, they failed to turn pressure (53% possession & 80% completion rate) into points, rarely troubling their opponent’s line when it mattered. Despite also averaging 8.5m per carry, they only created 4 line breaks. They were also poor defensively, missing 38 tackles over 80 minutes. Perhaps, the timely loss could do a trick a refocus this team ahead of the Finals.
A loss which sums up their season
The Raiders were upset at home 30-24 by the Knights last week, unable to take advantage of their opponents’ shortcomings and lack of quality within their team. Locked at 18-all at HT, they were overpowered in the second half by a team which showed a higher level of desire. With an equal share of possession, they completed at just 81%, ran for 9.3m per carry, and made 530 PCM’s. Attack wasn’t their issues; rather, they were let down by their defensive execution. They missed 35 tackles and allowed 10 line breaks. Offering their opponents numerous opportunities to score points was the major difference in the second half. This also demonstrated a lack of maturity in the Raiders, a factor which has plagued them throughout 2026.
Stats that matter
- These two sides met in Round 4 where the Sharks were victorious 34-22. They have an edge returning home, winning 59% of matches played here compared to the Raiders 43%.
- The Sharks have won 5 of the past 6 matches against the Raiders. In the past 5 matches, the average margin of victory has been 18 points, with 3 games decided by 14 points or more. The average total points in the same games is 48.4 points.
- The Sharks are the superior team on both sides of the ball in 2026. They score 29ppg compared to the Raiders 22ppg and concede just 20ppg, while the Raiders leak 25ppg.
A bounce back win is needed
Following a poor loss to a lowly ranked opponent, the Sharks need to make a positive statement. The ideal way to achieve that is to come out and win this game in impressive fashion. The Raiders have been competitive recently but are still missing and edge to their game which saw them capture the Minor Premiership last season. The home side has several player issues to overcome, namely the loss of AFB (suspension) and Ramien (injury). Winning 8 games from 10 matches at home this season, as well as playing during the day, should ensure the Sharks overcome the challenges which come their way.
The Raiders have struggled on the road in 2026, winning just 4 matches, and they will be further tested to match the quality and intensity of the Sharks. The loss last week for the Sharks comes at a good time; never does a team want a loss but heading into the Finals, it will refocus them and boost the determination to execute to the standard they have previously set. The Raiders will aim to disrupt this with powerful defence in the middle of the field but that will only count for so much. Their defence provides too many opportunities to opponents each week and the Sharks rarely need an invitation to score points. Once their confidence returns, they should comfortably account for the line.
Sharks -10.5
$1.90 (2 units)
Sharks vs Raiders Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points under 48.5 – see above for justification.
Leg 2 = Iro to score – he loves playing the Raiders with 3 tries from his past 4 matches against them. Iro is dangerous from anywhere on the field and returns to the team to add some impact on the edge.
Leg 3 = Mulitalo to score – the stars align in two areas for Mulitalo. He has 6 tries from his past 5 games at this venue and 4 tries in his past 5 games against the Raiders.
Sharks vs Raiders Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Saturday 15th August
Location: Ocean Protect Park, Sydney
Time: 3pm (AEST)
Odds: Sharks $1.33 vs Raiders $3.35
Line: -10.5
Points: 52.5
Where to Watch Sharks vs Raiders
Watch the Sharks vs Raiders match live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
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