The final game on Super Saturday in the NRL heads to Homebush with the Rabbitohs hosting the Knights. Each side has vastly different motivating factors ahead of this contest, but it will not change the fact that each will want to win. NRL fans will benefit most of all, with another intriguing and exciting clash anticipated. Before You Bet provides a detailed preview of the game ahead, breaking down each side and hopefully finding you a winner to add to your enjoyment.
NRL Round 25 Preview & Betting Tips
South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Newcastle Knights
Accor Stadium – Saturday 24th August – 7:35pm (AEST)
Match Preview
The Rabbitohs faced off against the Tigers last week and were upset, albeit unluckily due to the final call, by the team coming last. In a perfect summary of their season to date, things didn’t go to plan, and they fell agonisingly short of victory. They were again frustrating in key areas; with 52% possession they completed at just 78%. They dominated metres per carry (10m), PCM’s (750) and line breaks (7) but they were unable to convert this dominance into points. Again, this has plagued their performance for majority of the season.
The Knights were defeated 19-18 in Golden Point by the Sharks, a result which may come back to haunt them and their Finals chances. Gritty over 80 minutes, they recovered from a 10-nil deficit inside 7 minutes to lead 12-10 at HT. Building on their lead in the second half, they couldn’t maintain it for the duration of the match. It was a strong performance considering they had just 44% possession. They could’ve been better in other areas including metres per carry (8.7m), PCM’s (498) and missed tackles (44). They will also benefit from converting their 7 line breaks into points and making it more challenging to their opponents to chase a result.
Match Prediction
Both teams are impacted by injuries to players in the halves ahead of this match. The Rabbitohs lose Walker while the Knights are without Gamble. While Walker is arguably the better player, Gamble’s crucial role that he has played for the Knights this season shouldn’t be undervalued.
The Knights are rightly listed as favourites for this game but given the form of both sides, they should be shorter. The doubt is cast by the fact that the visitors have the worst attack of any team in the competition; the Rabbitohs average 20ppg in attack ahead of the Knights 18ppg.
Defence is where the home side struggle. They concede 27ppg compared to the Knights 22ppg. They are a more capable team, but the Rabbitohs will make them work for it. Following a poor showing last week, it is important that they bounce back and salvage some pride. Such a factor will only count for so much though and once the Knights gain the ascendency, they should have what it takes to get home in this match.
Knights -6.5
$1.90 (2.5 Units)
Same Game Multi
The average margin of victory between these two sides in the past 5 matches is 14.6 points. The Knights attack record may put this in danger, but it is a possibility. Marzhew is the leading try scorer for the Knights but has had a lean run of late. Look for him to strike on the edges if given the chance. Sharpe has risen to fame quickly. He has scored 6 tries in only 8 matches and is electric with the ball.
Knights 13+
Sharpe and Marzhew to Score
SGM Odds: $4.60 at Ladbrokes (0.5 Units)
