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BroncoKiwi
NRL Tips - Round Five
April 10th 2009 01:40
Category: Weekly Predictions
Round Four saw some stunning upsets, with the Wayne Bennett inspired Dragons overcoming the Broncos, the Titans raining on Melbourne's parade, Newcastle continuing Manly's woes and the Rabbitohs sneaking home against the Warriors.
The Easter weekend promises to be another cracking few days and, wherever you are, enjoy the footy!
Friday 7:30pm – Sydney Roosters v Brisbane Broncos at SFS
The Roosters are strengthened by the return of Nate Myles and Willie Mason but after a dominant display against the Eels do they really need them? Looking at the side they’ve named, Sydney will play a very physical game and look to unsettle a smaller Broncos pack. However, size may also be their Achilles heel. If Brisbane can weather the early storm, they should have too much skill and speed for a Roosters side that will probably tire during the latter stages of the contest. Broncos to win on the back of some late tries.
Friday 7:30pm – Parramatta Eels v St. George Illawarra Dragons at Parramatta Stadium
Aren’t these two side polar opposites! St.George have gone from strength to strength under the tutelage of Wayne Bennett, while the Eels are in all sorts of trouble following the sensational departure of Brett Finch. I have a feeling that the Dragons may be a touch flat from their Origin-style win over Brisbane, I’m tipping the Eels to put a turbulent week behind them and cause an upset.
Saturday 5:30pm Cronulla Sharks v Canberra Raiders at Toyota Park
Both teams are just one win from four after the opening month of the season. The Sharks have struggled to score points so far but are bolstered by the return of Trent Barrett, who should give the side more potency in attack. The Raiders face a short turnaround after notching their first win against the Cowboys on Monday night. I’m going to pick the Raiders here, I can’t see the Sharks crossing the line on too many occasions.
Saturday 7:30pm – North Queensland Cowboys v Gold Coast Titans at Dairy Farmers Stadium
North Queensland have been somewhat out of sorts. Their early season blue are encapsulated by the seemingly frustrated captain Jonathan Thurston, who is play well below his usual standard. I think the Cowboys will be much improved this week though and, while the Titans have had some great wins lately, can see their bubble bursting to an extent here. Cowboys to win.
Saturday 7:30pm – Melbourne Storm v Penrith Panthers at Olympic Park
Remarkably, the Panthers sit higher than the Storm on the ladder but it’s almost impossible to back against Melbourne in Melbourne. I know the Titans managed a win at ‘The Graveyard’ last weekend but I can’t see the Storm losing two in a row at home. But in saying that, Penrith look to be full of confidence and won’t go down without a fight.
Sunday 2:00pm – Newcastle Knights v New Zealand Warriors at Energy Australia Stadium
To be blunt, I’m really not sure who will win this one. Despite a massive injury toll, Newcastle toppled defending premiers Manly last Sunday. On the other hand, the equally injury-ravaged Warriors went down to Souths across the Tasman. The Knights are a lot mentally tougher this year, while their opponents seem to have fallen into a bit of a hole without the inspiration of Steve Price. Sticking with the Knights to win by 1-12.
Sunday 3:00pm – Manly Sea Eagles v Wests Tigers at Brookvale Oval
The conditions seem just right for Manly to claim their first win of 2009. Brett Stewart (pictured) is back on a Sunday afternoon at Brookvale Oval – a time and place that has seen him score many a try over the past few seasons. I don’t know what to expect from the Tigers, who are the best attacking and worst defensive team in the competition. The Sea Eagles are definitely due for a victory but most punters have been saying that for the past month!
Monday 7:00pm – Canterbury Bulldogs v South Sydney Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium
Monday night footy sees the Bulldogs take on the table topping Rabbitohs. The dynamic trio of halfback Chris Sandow, hooker Isaac Luke and veteran Craig Wing have been exceptionally dangerous for Souths and Canterbury will have to work hard in defence for the full eighty minutes. I think the Rabbitohs are too potent and they should consolidate their number one spot with another two points.
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Don't forget to check out the Casualty Ward and the Round 5 teams with all the last minute changes.
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