The first NRL game on Friday night heads to Penrith with the Panthers hosting the Bulldogs. Expected to have a little more ‘fire’ in this contest, both sides will have a fair understanding of how each operates. Most will feel comfortable running out onto this ground and emotions are set to be high. Before You Bet will aim to get your weekend off to a great start by finding you a winner or two in this match. Enjoy the detailed match preview to assist with your selection.
Also, if you’re new to sports betting or betting on the NRL, check out the following articles to help build your knowledge:
- Guide to Betting on the NRL
- Where to Bet on the NRL
- Factors to Consider When Betting on the NRL
2024 NRL Round 10 Preview & Betting Tips
Penrith Panthers vs Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
BlueBet Stadium – Friday 10th May – 6pm (AEST)
Match Preview
The Panthers were at their best against the Rabbitohs in Round 9, easily covering the loss of Cleary before kick-off with a polished performance. Despite falling behind 12-nil inside 10 minutes, they never panicked and built their way into the match. Their power saw them build relentless pressure on the Rabbitohs and eventually lead 18-12 at HT. It was one way traffic in the second half too, as they piled on 4 more tries to comfortably capture victory. It was a clinical display; they dominated possession (56%), averaged 9.2m per carry, made more pcm’s and had 10 total line breaks. They also missed just 18 tackles on their way to victory.
The Bulldogs were also victorious, overcoming a deficit of their own to prevail 22-14 against the Tigers. Heading into the game as favourites, it took a while for them to find their momentum; they trailed 14-6 at HT. An improved second half display allowed them to generate momentum and build pressure on their opponent’s defensive line. They were disciplined with the ball (89% completion rate), dominated possession (53%), averaged 9m per carry and had more pcm’s. They also won despite missing more tackles (38 vs 32). With a lot to still improve upon, they are a team which can be proud of the direction they are heading.
Match Prediction
There is bound to be a lot of emotion in this match given the number of ex-Panthers players (and coach) in the Bulldogs team. They will have an innate understanding of their opponents and where their weaknesses are. While that doesn’t automatically transfer into a victory, it will give the Bulldogs a chance of being competitive.
Common sense suggests that this game is the Panthers to lose, and this is indicated in the odds, with the home side overwhelming favourites to win this match ($1.17 vs $5). Their chances of winning were only boosted further with the news that Cleary will return in this match.
While an inferior team, the Bulldogs are capable on their day. Their attacking and defensive record is better than most and like that of the Panthers. They average 20ppg in attack and conceded 17ppg in defence compared with the Panthers 23ppg in attack and 15ppg in defence. This statistic suggests the line (14.5) may have been set too high for this contest. They will have to overcome the fact that the Panthers have won their past 5 matches against the Bulldogs by an average of 22.4 points, as well as an inferior record at this ground (60% vs 36%). They will also have to overthrow a horrendous record against their opponents; the Bulldogs have only defeated the Panthers twice in their past 13 matches, with their most recent victory coming back in Round 20, 2019.
Nevertheless, there is a difference about the Bulldogs as indicated in the NRL Power Rankings. Take on the line and use the fact that several players in the Bulldogs will have a point to prove. The Panthers have allowed some teams to get close to them in contests this season and the Bulldogs may just hang around longer than anticipated in this match.
Bulldogs +14.5
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
Same Game Multi
Both are the leading try scorers for their team and will want to make a statement in this game. Burton’s improved running game will threaten the Panthers, regardless of how well they know him. Turuva has proven himself as a capable finisher and will look to add to his season tally of 9 tries.
Burton to Score
Turuva to Score
SGM Odds: $9.50 at Ladbrokes (0.5 Units)
