Super Saturday has a particular theme this weekend, with all four Queensland teams featuring. It is fitting that it begins south of the boarder (in Canberra) and heads north for two blockbuster games. The first see’s the Raiders host the Titans, with both teams on a short turnaround following games on Sunday.
Find our best bets for the Raiders vs Titans below, and make sure to head over to our NRL Tips Page for more free previews and tips for Round 18.
NRL Round 18 Preview & Betting Tips
Canberra Raiders vs Gold Coast Titans
GIO Stadium, Saturday 1st July, 3pm (AEST)
The Raiders overcame a tricky opponent in the Roosters last Sunday 20-18. Scoring all 3 of their tries in the first half, the Raiders only needed strong defence and a penalty goal to close out the match. At late (75thminute) try would’ve caused some panic but they managed to hold their nerve. They gave themselves every chance of performing well; they completed at 82% with 53% possession, had more total and post contact metres, and missed just 20 tackles in defence. More importantly, the win also moved them to 6th on the competition ladder.
The Titans were also victorious in Round 17, producing a spirited 18-12 win over the Broncos. In a week where their coach was sacked, this performance was going to go a long way to determining the overall attitude of this side. It was an even contest between the two teams but in the end, the Titans scraped home by taking the chances given to them. They will want to improve upon their metres made, line breaks allowed and missed tackles though if they want to keep the winning momentum going.
The Raiders are not exactly the best team at making opponents pay for their mistakes; neither are the Titans. This creates uncertainty in the result but not so much the odds (Raiders $1.65 vs Titans $2.25). The odds should be far closer, especially with news around key forwards seeing Papali’I ruled out (Raiders) and Fa’asuamaleaui included (Titans). Even with the Titans poor record in Canberra (38% vs Raiders 58%), they are not without a chance. Both teams concede an average of 25 points in defence, while the Raiders score fewer points in attack than the Titans (20ppg vs 23ppg). This points towards a tight match. Despite 6 out of the past 8 matches (Raiders have won 5 of the past 6 vs Titans) being decided by a 13+ margin, each teams place on the ladder (and NRL Power Rankings) should ensure this margin is less than 2 converted tries.
Either Team by 12 Points or less
$1.68 (2.5 Units)
Same Game Multi at Picklebet
Popular bookmaker Picklebet have launched their Same Game Multis for both the AFL and NRL. There are plenty of markets to choose from an excellent odds on offer, so make sure to check them out!
Titans +9.5 – As mentioned above, the Titans are in with a chance of winning, let alone making this game competitive with the line in their favour.
Total Points Over 45.5 – The points conceded this season should ensure the total is high once again.
Fifita to score – The form of Fifita in recent weeks has been impressive. He crossed last week and is looming as another danger in attack this time around.
SGM Odds: $6.50 at Picklebet (0.5 Units)
