The first of two blockbuster NRL matches this weekend begins on Saturday night down in Canberra with the Raiders hosting the Sharks. Just 6 teams remain, and it is now sudden death for all involved. This will ensure exhilarating contests as the best teams fight is out for the 2025 NRL Premiership. There are numerous storylines running through each match and this sets the stage for an exciting match. Before You Bet is here to help with a comprehensive look at what is ahead in this epic game.
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Raiders vs Sharks Prediction & Betting Tips: NRL Semi Final
Raiders Couldn’t Close it Out
The Raiders look set for a week off as they led the Broncos 28-12 in the second half. Unfortunately for them, they were unable to close their attacking options in the second half, with their opponents scoring 3 tries in 7 minutes and conceding a penalty goal on FT to send the game into extra time. It wasn’t until Golden Point that a winner was decided in a highly controversial match. Regardless of your opinion, the fact remains that the Raiders were in a position to win but failed to close out the match. They were their own worst enemy. With just 43% possession, they completed at 72% meaning their 9.5m per carry were not as effective as they would’ve hoped. Their defence was also poor; they conceded 7 line breaks and missed 67 tackles. If they wish to progress beyond this week, they must improve this area of their play.
Spirited and Determined Sharks
The Sharks looked vulnerable heading into their elimination final against the Roosters last week. Thankfully, they played above themselves on both sides of the ball and were strong defensively, limiting their opponents’ attacking options and prevailing 20-10. With more possession (51%) and a superior completion rate (79% vs 68%), they overcame just 7.5m per carry and 3 line breaks. While they shut down their opponents’ attacking options, they were forced to scramble as they missed 41 tackles and conceded 5 line breaks. The spirit in their effort was evident though and some of the tries scored were based on a determination to succeed when it mattered most. It sets a positive standard moving forward.
Stats that matter
- These two sides met in Round 5 in Canberra where the Raiders won 24-20. That win meant the home side has won 6 out of the past 8 matches played between these two sides.
- The average margin of victory in the past 5 matches is 16 points. That is somewhat skewed as 2 have been decided by 4 points. A 40-point blowout to the Sharks accounts for the large average.
- The Raiders have the superior attack, averaging 27ppg vs the Sharks 24ppg. The Sharks have a better defence this season, averaging 20ppg and slight ahead of the Raiders, who average 21ppg.
Too close to call
This game is going to be a belter! The home ground advantage strongly sways this contest towards the Raiders; despite losing their last two games, they appear the strong side. Yet, defensive weaknesses were exposed last week, and the Sharks will be set to do the same. While not having the same attacking weapons as the Broncos, they have their power players to call upon. The Raiders will look to counter this by dragging their opponents into an arm-wrestle; then, when given the chance, they will strike with their own dynamic players. This ensures that there is little between either side. The Raiders should win this contest based on the form of each side, but the shorter 6-day turnaround shouldn’t be overlooked either. In a head-to-head contest, they are the preferred option, but the odds should be far closer than what is on offer. For an investment, the smarter option is to take this game being decided by fewer than 10 points, with a larger stake to increase your return. Enjoy watching everything that this contest has to offer.
Either team by 10.5 points or less
$1.90 (3 Units)
Raiders vs Sharks Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points under 45.5 – the average total in the past 5 matches between these two sides is 43.2 points. The defensive averages of each also suggest that this game is going to be a low scoring affair.
Leg 2 = Mulitalo to score – he has scored 9 tries in his past 5 games for the Sharks and was again a dangerous threat in multiple situations last week.
Leg 3 = Strange to score – scoring in his past 4 matches, he is a man in form also. If given the chance, he is destined to attack the line from anywhere on the field. He also has 6 tries in his past 5 matches at this ground.
SGM Odds = $12 at Dabble
Raiders vs Sharks Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Saturday 20th September
Location: GIO Stadium, Canberra
Time: 7:50pm (AEST)
Odds: Raiders $1.55 vs Sharks $2.50
Line: -5.5
Points: 45.5 points
Where to Watch Raiders vs Sharks
Watch the Raiders vs Sharks match on Channel 9 or live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
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