Round 18 of the 2024 NRL Season continues on Saturday evening at Leichhardt Oval when the West Tigers play host to the Melbourne Storm, and traditionally, this game has proven to be a match up where the form guide can get thrown out the window.
Given the current form of both teams, it should be an intriguing match and we have you covered with a full betting preview for free below.
2024 NRL Round 18 Preview & Betting Tips
West Tigers vs Melbourne Storm
Saturday 5:30pm (AEST), July 6th, Leichhardt Oval, Sydney
Recent history suggests that Melbourne will be too good for the Tigers, but these two, when they clash at Leichardt, can throw up a result towards the home team. The Tigers were just outclassed by the Roosters last week, simple as that. Sin bins once again hurt them badly but they just aren't at the level of the Roosters. They do get a stronger team this weekend I feel though with John Bateman returning to the starting team along with the return of Charlie Staines. I think at home, they can prove to be quite dangerous.
Melbourne aren't playing dazzling football, but they are leading the competition with win after win, just getting the job done, as is the case with the Melbourne Storm under Craig Bellamy. They played in atrocious conditions last week against Canberra but just a few moments of class and holding the ball was the difference in the end. Harry Grant has been rested again and there are doubts about whether Ryan Papenhuyzen plays, still not quite 100% with a foot concern. If he is out, then the Tigers come further into play. They also lose Xavier Coates to a nasty hamstring, so the injury toll is starting to mount.
Match Prediction: I can smell a huge upset here with the Tigers. I reckon at their spiritual home, Leichardt, they'll be fired up and wanting to put on a show for their fans. I think there is little between the two teams.
Tigers +9.5
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Tigers +9.5: As stated above, I am thinking the Tigers will come here to play and are every chance of causing an upset.
+50.5 Total Match Points: Both sides can leak points quite comfortably, especially the Tigers, but Melbourne have been involved in high scoring games this year so over 50 match points seems the logical play.
SGM Odds: $3.90 at BoomBet
