Two NRL games return on Friday for the first time in a while. The first match heads to Coffs Harbour, with the Sharks hosting the Titans. The Sharks are in dangerous territory, clinging onto a spot in the Top 4 despite losing 4 of their past 5 matches. The Titans are rejuvenated following a 60-point victory and have a week to prepare for this contest. It poses as a tricky game for each and Before You Bet is here to guide you through with a comprehensive look at the match ahead.
2024 NRL Round 18 Preview & Betting Tips
Cronulla Sharks vs Gold Coast Titans
C.ex Coffs International Stadium – Friday 5th July – 6pm (AEST)
Match Preview
The Sharks suffered their 4th loss in 5 games last Friday in a Golden Point 15-14 defeat by the Bulldogs. Starting slowly and conceding the first two tries inside 13 minutes, they fought hard to claw their way back into the contest. This included 2 second half tries but, with the game on the line, and despite a perfect opportunity, they could not close out the match. With a lesser share of possession (48%) and an inferior completion rate (77%), they only have themselves to blame as they continually offered opportunities to their opponents. They were strong in most other areas, making significantly more total metres and PCM’s, more line breaks and only missing 23 tackles. The result only increases the noise about their overall prospects.
The Titans enjoyed a week out of the spotlight following their 66-6 victory over the Warriors at home. The 11-try demolition of their opponents began in the 15th minute, with some impressive tries produced. With 57% possession and an 87% completion rate, they gave themselves every possible chance of performing well. This was further reflected in their execution as they averaged 11.1m per carry (season high), made 12 line breaks, and missed just 24 tackles. If they can maintain this standard each week, there is no limit to what they can achieve as a club moving forward.
Match Prediction
All signs point towards the Sharks winning this contest. They have won the past 9 games against the Titans and have never lost a game at this ground (3 attempts vs Titans 2 matches here for no wins). They have a superior attacking (24ppg vs 21ppg) record in 2024 and their defence supports them on most occasions (19ppg vs 26ppg). The team changes for the Titans creates uncertainty with Brimson returning at 5/8 for Campbell; while the returning player is quality, Campbell gave his team a different shape and dimension in attack. If the Titans are to play to the same standard they performed at against the Warriors, they should be considered a greater chance of winning than their price suggests ($1.42 vs $2.90).
The Sharks desperately need a win; they are losing form with narrow loses and there is a sense that a breakout performance is on the horizon. The average winning margin in the past 5 matches between these two sides is 17 points. They are usually low scoring affairs though (average 41.8 points), with the Titans struggling to find any consistency in attack. There is everything to suggest that this will be how this match plays out, but the Titans could easily come out and make things challenging for their opponents. While that is an option, it shouldn’t impact your selection, rather, it should decrease your investment on this match. It is time for the Sharks to make a statement and they are well placed to do so.
Sharks -8.5
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
Same Game Multi
If the Sharks are to make a statement, it will be my more than 2 converted tries. They have won the past 5 matches against the Titans by an average of 17ppg and the Titans defence must improve on their 2024 totals. Ramien hasn’t seen his usual success on the edge with just 3 tries to his name this season but he has been as damaging as ever. He is always an attacking threat close to the line. Talakai has scored 5 tries this season and his move to the backrow has allowed him to get the ball sooner and create opportunities at the line with his sharp footwork. Expect the Sharks to utilise this against some of the large Titans forwards.
Sharks 13+
Ramien and Talakai to Score
SGM Odds: $15 at Ladbrokes (0.5 Units)
