The final game on NRL Super Saturday sees the Tigers return to their spiritual home ground to host the Sharks. They will be hoping that their home fans can give them the extra spark needed following a disappointing performance last week. The Sharks have shown maturity so far this season and it appears though a lot more will be needed to disrupt their momentum.
The NRL action is set to be exciting and Before You Bet is here to take a comprehensive look at the action ahead.
Also, if you’re new to sports betting or betting on the NRL, check out the following articles to help build your knowledge:
- Guide to Betting on the NRL
- Where to Bet on the NRL
- Factors to Consider When Betting on the NRL
2024 NRL Round 3 Preview & Betting Tips
Wests Tigers vs Cronulla Sharks
Leichhardt Oval – Saturday 23rd March – 7:35pm (AEST)
Match Preview
The Tigers had high hopes of a positive start to season 2024 but were always going to find it difficult with a road trip to Canberra to start their campaign. They were competitive for majority of the first half but conceded 2 late tries to trail 24-12 at the break. They were no match for their opponents in the second half, with their scoreless display highlighting their shortcomings. They were strangled out of the match with just 45% possession; they were outplayed in defence too, conceding 9.8m per carry, allowing 693pcm’s and missing 36 tackles.
The Sharks had no such issues in their 25-6 victory over the Bulldogs. After a tight first half where the scores were locked at 6-all at HT, the Sharks absorbed the pressure from their opponents and went to another level. Their ball control was impressive, and they gave little opportunities away with a 55% share of possession and 83% completion rate. Making 1,930m, 673pcm and 7 line breaks showed their dominance also. They have a great ability to move the ball to different points on the field on the back of momentum generated through the middle.
Match Prediction
Several factors are working against the Tigers heading into this contest and has rightly seen them listed as outsiders ($3.80 vs $1.27). Despite having a superior record at this ground (55% vs 44%), the Tigers have won just one game against the Sharks since 2015; this is one win in 11 matches. Furthermore, the form of each side so far this season suggests the visitors are the superior team.
The resolve shown by the Sharks in the first two games this season is something the Tigers are working towards but appear to be well off at this stage. They will need more than a vocal home crowd to get them over the line. In the past 4 victories, the average winning margin for the Sharks has been 26 points, with the lowest being 24 points. A far better level of execution is expected in this game from the Tigers but ultimately, this game is a matter of how well the Sharks control the match. If there is a ‘knock’ on the visitors, it is that they have allowed teams (Warriors and Bulldogs) to play with confidence at times during their matches. They have given chances away and relied on their defence. Sooner or later, it will crack but for now, the Tigers appear unlikely to deliver the winning blow.
Sharks -11.5
$1.90 (2 Units)
Same Game Multi
The first option goes without saying. Mulitalo has scored in both of the Sharks games this season and is a danger on the ground and in the air. Talakai’s power will make him difficult for the Tigers to stop and he already crossed against a superior defensive team in the Warriors back in Round 1.
Sharks 13+
Mulitalo to Score
Talakai to Score
SGM Odds: $6.50 at Neds
