The final game on NRL Super Saturday is unlikely to excite many outside of the fans of the respective clubs. They too may even find it difficult to get motivated for this game with a trip out to Campbelltown as the Tigershost the Rabbitohs. Both out of Finals contention weeks ago and languishing at the bottom of the competition ladder (and NRL Power Rankings), each will be playing for pride. The lack of overall consequence in their performance could make for an exciting fixture. Before You Bet is here to preview a tricky contest to end the days viewing and hopefully provide a clearer picture of how this match will play out.
NRL Round 24 Preview & Betting Tips
Wests Tigers vs South Sydney Rabbitohs
Campbelltown Sports Stadium – Saturday 17th August – 7:35pm (AEST)
The Tigers travelled to Newcastle last week and were never in the contest as they were defeated 34-18. Trying hard to compete, they conceded 4 first half tries and quickly trailed 22-12 at HT. They gave themselves every possible chance but lacked the overall quality. With 50% possession, they completed at 92%, but averaged just 8.5m per carry, missed 32 tackles and had only 3 line breaks. Still, that result isn’t as bad as it may seem.
The Rabbitohs were also defeated, blown away in the first half of their match against the Storm. Loose in defence, they conceded 4 first half tries and trailed 22-4. A second half fightback only salvaged some pride; in many ways, their points were scored in ‘garbage time’ and mattered little to their opponents. They were poor again in their execution. With 46% possession, they completed at just 69%, they made fewer metres and PCM’s, had just 3 line breaks and missed 46 tackles. There is a reason why these two sides are sitting low on the competition ladder, as well as the NRL Power Rankings.
Match Prediction
This game could go either way. There are plenty of factors working in favour of the Rabbitohs and this explains why they have been listed as favourites ($2.60 vs $1.50). They have won 8 out of the past 10 meetings between these two sides, including a 14-point victory back in Round 20. The Rabbitohs have a superior attacking (21ppg vs 18ppg) and defensive (27ppg vs 30ppg) record; both make for horrible reading when reviewing their season. They also have a better record at this ground, with a winning strike rate of 50% compared to the Tigers 40%. You cannot be certain though and the Rabbitohs have been poor this season.
As diabolical as the Tigers have been, some would argue they have demonstrated more fight in recent weeks. The Rabbitohs have a better (and stronger) set of players taking the field but the young team that the Tigers possess could cause an upset. They have produced some exciting passages of play and the Rabbitohs have been less than convincing in recent weeks. If there was one last chance for the Tigers to avoid the wooden spoon with a spirit victory, this would be it.
Ideally, with better betting options available this weekend, this is a game you should avoid altogether. If you must have a bet, invest around this game being a high scoring contest. The average total in the past 5 matches is 51.4 points, with 3 of the 5 games at 55 points or more.
Total Points Over 53.5
$1.90 (2 Units)
