The first NRL game on Friday in Round 3 heads to New Zealand, with the Warriors hosting the competition-leading Raiders. An exciting tradition of Friday-night Warriors matches will ensure this game it witnessed by a passionate home crowd, albeit, in Christchurch. The Warriors are still winless to start the season and they will be desperate to capture their first win of the season. Despite being overlooked in the preseason; the Raiders have delivered two quality performances. Their confidence is high, and they will want to keep their momentum going. Get ready, this game could produce anything!
Before You Bet has you covered too for a betting preview, hopefully adding to your enjoyment by finding a winner or two.
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
New Zealand Warriors vs Canberra Raiders
Apollo Projects Stadium – Friday 22nd March – 6pm (AEST)
Match Preview
It was a heartbreaking, final seconds loss to the Storm last week which completely gutted the Warriors. Playing majority of the match as the better side, it took a moment of brilliance for the Warriors to be defeated 30-26. Behind 18-6 after a tight first half, the Warriors controlled possession (51%) and carried the ball strongly (9.6m per carry). Despite a higher missed tackle count (33) and more errors (8), they were strong is most areas. Unlucky with the result, their response at the end of the match shows how far the culture of this team has come.
The Raiders played their first game of the season at home, hosting the Tigers and outplaying them in their 32-12 result. Rarely allowing their opponents a chance in the match, the Raiders looked strong and established a 24-12 HT lead. Their victory was established by controlling possession (55%) and being disciplined with the ball (90% completion rate). Carrying the ball for an average of 9.8m per carry and having 693pcm highlights just how dominant they were. Their defence was good too, shutting down their opponents attack movements with ease and missing just 24 tackles. It is still early in the season but there is a lot to suggest the Raiders will be a capable team in 2024.
Match Prediction
Given the start of each side this season, it is surprising to see the Warriors as strong favourites for this match ($1.40 vs $3). The strength of their opponents in the opening two weeks is reflected in these odds but one cannot help but think the Raiders are being underrated. It is one thing to scrape home against low-level opponents, it is another to perform how the Raiders have so far. This brings the line (7.5) into consideration.
The loss last week would’ve taken a lot out of the Warriors; not only was it a road trip but it went right down to the wire. This game should be no different if recent history is anything to go by. 4 out of the past 5 game have been decided by a 1-12 margin, with the Warriors prevailing by a single point on two occasions. The Raiders pack has what it takes to combat the fast style which the Warriors play. They also have strong outside backs.
Nevertheless, the Warriors are still the preferred selection in H2H markets, but this game should be far closer than the odds are suggesting.
Raiders +7.5
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
Same Game Multi
The margin selection goes without saying… just read (and re-read) the information above. Montoya was strong last week and after a slow start to the season, RTS is gaining in confidence and is closer to taking on the line in attacking field position.
Warriors 1-12
Montoya to Score
RTS to Score
SGM Odds: $21 at Neds
