The first game on an exciting NRL Super Saturday takes place in Canberra as the table-topping Raiders host a struggling Eels team. The Raiders will want to continue their strong run of form, meanwhile, the Eels are still an outside chance of featuring in the Finals but will have to have a near perfect finish to their season. In an intriguing contest, the action is set to be exciting and Before You Bet is here to help find you a winner with a detailed look at the match ahead.
Raiders vs Eels Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 20
Playing with purpose
The Raiders enjoyed a week off last week following their 28-24 victory over the Dragons at home. Hardley a perfect match, the Raiders did what was needed to capture victory; previously, this would’ve been a game that they would have lost. They controlled possession (53%) and built pressure on their opponents with an 84% completion rate. They recorded an amazing 11.1m per carry, created 6 line breaks and made 593 PCM’s. Those areas underpin their performance and make it seem far easier than it probably was.
Outplayed and outlasted
The Eels were strong in the first half against the Panthers, only trailing 12-10 at HT. Unfortunately, when their opponents kicked into another gear in the second half, they were unable to match them, eventually defeated 32-10. It highlights their shortcomings and areas which need to be addressed should improvement be forthcoming. Areas like possession (46%), completion rate (75%) and metres per carry (7.9m) must be improved upon. Missing 36 tackles and allowing 9 line breaks was never going to help their cause either.
Stats that matter
The reason they are leading the competition
This game is somewhat of a forgone conclusion. That isn’t to offend the Eels but there are several circumstances which are stacked against them. On top of what has already been mentioned, they are also coming off a tough game against the Panthers. On a short turnaround, it will be tough to prepare for this match. Interestingly, Brown has been dropped to 18th man, with a new direction ahead for this club. Much like the previous weeks matches, this was once a tricky game for the Raiders against a team who they are far better than. Not in 2025 though, with the Raiders team expected to show fans (again) why they are leading the competition as the run towards the Finals heats up. Not only should they win, but they should do so comfortably with key players (Papalii & Young) returning to their team.
Raiders -13.5
$1.90 (3 units)
Raiders vs Eels Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Raiders 13+ - no justification is needed other than adding value to a SGM.
Leg 2 = Weekes to score – he has scored 4 tries in the past 2 weeks with a hat-trick last week. A key player at fullback, Weekes is hitting form at the right stage of the season.
Leg 3 = Young to score – the backrower is the Raiders leading try scorer this season with 10. He hasn’t scored in the past 4 matches so look for him to insert himself into this game as much as possible.
Raiders vs Eels Betting Odds & Match Info
Location: GIO Stadium, Canberra
Odds: Raiders $1.22 vs Eels $4.20
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Where to Watch Raiders vs Eels
Watch the Raiders vs Eels match live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
