Before attention will turn to State of Origin, the final NRL game of Round 13 will see the Roosters hosting the Cowboys. As exciting as the game on Wednesday will be, this match still has plenty to offer. It is an important game for both, especially as they will need a win to their name during the representative period. Before You Bet is here to provide detailed analysis to help find a winner and add to your viewing enjoyment.
2024 NRL Round 13 Preview & Betting Tips
Sydney Roosters vs North Queensland Cowboys
Allianz Stadium – Sunday 2nd June – 4:05pm (AEST)
Match Prediction
The Roosters bounced back to winning form following their Magic Round loss with a commanding 44-16 victory over the Raiders on the road. In what is always a tricky trip south, the Roosters proved too classy for their opponents, dictating the terms of the contest and never conceding the lead. 8 total tries highlighted their dominance, which was established of the back of a strong platform set by the forwards; they averaged 10.4m per carry, had 584 PCM’s and made 8 line breaks. It was a commanding display which proved their experience and talent.
The Cowboys captured an unconvincing 42-28 win over the Tigers at home, failing to silence concerns raised about the performances of this club. As impressive as they were in attack, they allowed one of the lowest attacking teams in the competition to score 5 tries; if it were not for a 79th minute (garbage time) try, the margin would’ve been closer. Looking at their positives, they were dynamic in attack averaging 11.5m per carry, having 675 PCM’s and making 10 line breaks. It is still unclear what is missing from this talented team, but a win will go a long way to boosting their confidence. Now on a 2-game winning streak, they need to focus on maintaining consistency and climbing up the competition ladder.
Match Prediction
There are several factors working against the Cowboys. The trip south to Sydney, and this ground in particular, has never been a kind one. They have a 35% record at this ground (Roosters 64%), while they have just one win over them in the past 6 meetings. They are also missing more players to Origin duty; the omission of Tedesco is a positive for the Roosters as he will be available for this match and will be out to prove a point. Their spine is intact, and they will use their experienced forwards in the middle to generate a strong platform for them.
The Roosters have been a dominant team this season and they have the statistics to back it up; this is also a point of difference for the Cowboys and justifies their price as outsiders ($1.12 vs $6.20). It is difficult to invest on the Cowboys with any confidence let alone this week when they are missing so many players from their team. With plenty of talent remaining and a strong home ground advantage, this game is the Roosters to lose.
The game of rugby league can throw up a curve ball from time to time so it is best to invest on an option which could offer a safe return. History indicates in the past 5 matches that no game has been decided by a 1-12 margin; this game is likely to be no different and thus, punters should use this to their advantage.
Roosters 13+
$1.40 (2.5 Units)
Same Game Multi
Each have their own point to prove. Tedesco and Tupou would think that they should be playing Origin and will want to make a statement with a strong performance. Manu is lethal at centre and is getting better each week following a few weeks away from the field. All three are an attacking threat for the Roosters both on the ground and in the air.
Tedesco, Tupou & Manu to Score
SGM Odds: $4.60 at Neds (0.5 Units)
