Just 4 teams remain in a new format for the NRLW Finals. Now, two fresh teams enter the fold, defending their home turd and playing sudden death fixtures to qualify for the Grand Final. Tensions will be high this week and despite the form guide saying there are clear winners emerging this week, rugby league can do funny things. The NRLW is never short of excitement, and this week shouldn’t be any different. Before You Bet is here to make sense of it all with a detailed look at both matches this weekend.
Check out our preview and NRLW tips for Week 2 of the finals below, and if you're looking for a new Australian sportsbook to try, then why not check out TradieBET for a great range of markets and excellent odds!
NRLW 2025 Finals Week 2 Betting Tips
Sydney Roosters vs Cronulla Sharks (Saturday 7:45pm AEST)
Preview
The Roosters enjoyed the week off last week following a dominant 40-10 victory over the Sharks to capture the Minor Premiership and keep their undefeated season alive. It was a commanding display which saw them score 8 tries, benefitting from 54% possession and a 75% completion rate. This saw them average 9.6m per carry, 567 PCM’s and create 8 line breaks. Even better was their low total of 22 missed tackles. The Sharks travelled to Townsville last week and won an exciting game 24-18. A late try to the home side only narrow the margin of victory for the visitors. It was an improved effort on their previous week; they had 52% possession, an 80% completion rate and made 8.4m per carry. As has been their issue all season, their missed tackle count was higher than their opponents (28) and better teams will make them pay for their mistakes.
Stats that matter
- The Roosters have won all 4 matches they’ve played against the Sharks, including the Round 11 40-10 demolition.
- The Sharks have only played one match at this ground and were unsuccessful. The Roosters have a 100% record with 6 wins from as many attempts.
- The Roosters are superior on both sides of the ball. They average 33ppg in attack compared to the Sharks 20ppg. Their defensive record is also outstanding, conceding 11ppg whereas the Sharks allow 17ppg.
Prediction & Tip
You only must go back to Round 11 to see a blueprint for how this game is likely to play out. The Roosters will only benefit from having a week off; despite the confidence gained from a victory, the road trip to Townville is sure to have an impact on the Sharks. The Roosters are also strengthened by Baxter returning to the team. It is a timely return as it replaces Aiken in the halves. The Roosters are unlikely to be drastically impacted by this. This is reflected in the odds, and the Roosters are overwhelming favourites. The line (16.5) does seem like a lot of points in a Finals match but with the second-best defence in the competition, the Sharks are likely to again struggle to score point.
Roosters -16.5
$1.90 (2 units)
Brisbane Broncos vs Newcastle Knights (Sunday 1:15pm AEST)
Preview
The Broncos finished second on the competition ladder with just one loss (to the Roosters) to their name. They finished the season in style with a comprehensive 50-4 victory over the Cowboys. There was never any doubt in the result as the Broncos jumped to a 30-nil HT lead. They dominated possession (57%), had an adequate completion rate (75%), and were dynamite when carrying the ball (11.5m per carry & 673 PCM’s). This saw them make 13 line breaks while they were strong defensively, missing just 15 tackles. The Knights hosted the Titans last week and were never in doubt of progressing following a strong half that saw them lead 18-nil at the break. Despite the Titans getting close, the Knights kicked back into action and sealed victory. The victory was set up by controlling possession (56%), and a high completion rate (79%), allowing them to make 8.2m per carry. Perhaps their achievements were greater in defence; the Titans made just 973m total and the Knights missed just 14 tackles. They will need to maintain a similar standard if they’re to be successful moving forward.
Stats that matter
- These two sides have met 6 times, and each has won 3 matches. Their Round 8 fixture in Newcastle saw the Broncos dominate 46-16.
- The Broncos do not often play at Suncorp but when they do, they win 60% of matches here. The Knights have won 1 of 2 games played at the cauldron for a 50% record.
- The Broncos have the best attack in the league averaging 36ppg and back it up with the top ranked defence which allows just 10ppg. This is compared to the Knights attack of 24ppg and defence of 18ppg.
Prediction & Tip
Much like the other match this weekend, there appears to be a clear difference between the two leading teams in the competition. It will take a monumental effort from the Knights to change the expected outcome of this match. In saying that, if there is one team that can do that this weekend, it’s the Knights. There are alarm bells already ringing though; they conceded far too many points against the Titans last week. The return of Bell on the wing for the Broncos only further enhances their chances. Considering the ranking of each team this season, it is likely that the home side will cover the line after absorbing the early pressure from their opponents. Once achieved, they should run away with the match.
Broncos -15.5
$1.90 (2 units)
