Friday night NRL action begins in Sydney this week with a tantalising contest between the Roosters and Panthers. Both teams are packed with talented players that can turn the contest in an instant. This sets the stage for an exciting match that will feature action from the opening whistle. Before You Bet is here to help guide you through, with the aim of finding you a winner or two to add to your enjoyment.
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Roosters vs Panthers Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 3 2026
Overcoming the moment(um)
The Roosters would’ve been forgiven for letting a milestone moment disrupt their performance last week. They were anything but poor in the second half against the Rabbitohs and closed the match out with some strong defensive efforts. This allowed them to overcome their lack of possession (49%) and inferior completion rate (74%). There were signs of their dominance though as they averaged 10.1m per carry. This is an area they must continue to build upon as few teams in the competition appear capable of matching them in this area.
Another clinical performance
There is no doubt that their early exit from the competition in 2025 is inspiring this Panthers team to stronger performances. Their 26-6 victory over a strong Sharks team was yet another piece of evidence that this squad is out to make amends. The dominant display which saw them lead 18-nil at HT, was built on controlling possession (52%) and building pressure via ball control (82% completion rate). Unusually, the averaged just 7.9m per carry but created 6 line breaks and limited their opponents to just 7.3m per carry. They face a tough challenge to replicate that performance for the 3rd consecutive week.
Stats that matter
- The Panthers have won 11 of the past 12 matches against the Roosters. The home side will be desperate for their 64% record here to count for something (Panthers 48%).
- Recent games between these two sides are not necessarily close. While two have been decided by a converted try, the average margin of victory is 16.8 points as the other 3 games have seen 20+ point victories.
- The Panthers have allowed just 1 try so far this season in their two matches. The Roosters are improving defensively but have still conceded an average of 30ppg to start the season.
Panthers or Roosters? Here's Our Best Bet!
Both sides receive positive team news with the return of key players in Robson (Roosters) and Martin (Panthers) from injury. For Robson, it his debut for the club and it is unknown the impact he will have; if it goes as expected, he will add another dimension to their play on both sides of the ball. Such is their strong start to the season; the Panthers are favourites to win this contest. The Roosters improved their defence in last week’s match but will need to lift further to counter what the Panthers offer. The Roosters are a genuine chance of winning this match; the longer they play together, the more they will feel comfortable in their combinations. The trend of Panthers winning matches against the Roosters, regardless of the venue, appears set to continue. Nevertheless, they will need to be consistent over 80 minutes. This still eludes the Roosters and had they been facing a better side last week, they would’ve been held to account for their mistakes. The final margin of victory will be less than expected though and for that, the 1-12 margin is preferred.
Panthers 1-12
$2.80 (1 unit)
Panthers vs Roosters Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Under 45.5 points – the average total from their past 5 matches is 47.2 points abut challenging, wet conditions, may make points difficult to come by over 80 minutes.
Leg 2 = Tupou to score – he has 4 tries from as many matches against the Panthers. A threat in the air, the Roosters will be out to seek this advantage as much as possible.
Leg 3 = McLean to score – just as dangerous as any other player on the field, McLean has scored in each of his matches against the Roosters. Watch him to keep his strong start to the season trending in the right direction.
Same Game Multi Odds: $12.41 at Dabble
Roosters vs Panthers Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Friday 20th March
Location: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Time: 6pm (AEDT)
Odds: Rooters $2.40 vs Panthers $1.57
Line: +5.5
Points: 46.5
Where to Watch Panthers vs Roosters
Watch the Panthers vs Roosters match live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
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