ethos
BroncoKiwi
Round 3 - Predictions
March 28th 2008 04:54
Category: Weekly Predictions
Eels v Knights
The Parramatta Eels welcome the return of halfback Tim Smith and Nathan Hindmarsh, while the Knights remain unchanged from their extra time win over Manly. Despite the fact that Newcastle is undefeated this season I think the Eels look set for victory. On paper their forward pack has the edge and their backline looks to have too much pace for the Knights.
Broncos v Cowboys
I’m going to tip the Broncos to win in a close contest. Their forwards have been impressive physically and they should dominate a North Queensland pack that has looked sluggish and at times unfit. However, the Cowboys will be primed for a big performance and the likes of Matt Bowen and Johnathan Thurston will no doubt test the Broncos’ defence.
Roosters v Storm
Well, believe it or not, the Storm actually lost last weekend at Olympic Park. I don’t have the exact stats but any league fan can tell you that it doesn’t happen too often. I do have another statistic though, the Storm haven’t lost back to back matches since Round 4 2006. They’re too professional and well coached to lose two in a row and they should get the two points from the Roosters.
Raiders v Dragons
Here’s more statistics for you – the Dragons haven’t won in Canberra since 2000. However, I think they’re going to break their drought this Saturday night. Even though they won against Penrith the Raiders looked ordinary and if the St. George halves can get some early ball to centres Matt Cooper and Gasnier it should be game over.
Titans v Sharks
This game is an interesting one between two teams of contrasting styles. In their short history the Titans have always shown great attacking form at home, while the Sharks rely on their impenetrable defence to frustrate the opposition. On this occasion I think the defensive physicality of Cronulla will overcome the attacking flair of the Coast but it will be an enthralling contest either way.
Panthers v Rabbitohs
I can describe this match in two words – cripple fight. Both teams have been nothing short of dreadful in 2008 and this could really be quite painful to watch. The Rabbitohs’ halves pairing of John Sutton and Ben Rogers will stymie any potential South Sydney attack and I’m going to tip the Panthers to win simply due to their home ground advantage.
Bulldogs v Tigers
To put it simply, I think the Tigers will beat the Bulldogs. Their backline should have too much speed and agility for the ‘Dogs and yet another injury cloud over SB Williams (aka Sponge Bob Williams because he’s soft) will hurt their chances.
Sea Eagles v Warriors
Manly have disappointed so far in 2008 and have looked lost in attack without the nous of former dummy half Michael Monaghan. The Warriors, on the hand, were at their flamboyant best in their 30-16 win over the Eels. The boys from NZ have a surprisingly good record at Brookvake Oval and will win this encounter.
However you should follow my tips at your own peril. I tipped 3/8 last weekend to leave my season tally at an uninspiring 7/16 (44%). You’ll actually get better odds from tossing a coin..
And I apologise for the lateness of my predictions, as I attended a gig last night.
Please feel free to comment with your own tips!
The Parramatta Eels welcome the return of halfback Tim Smith and Nathan Hindmarsh, while the Knights remain unchanged from their extra time win over Manly. Despite the fact that Newcastle is undefeated this season I think the Eels look set for victory. On paper their forward pack has the edge and their backline looks to have too much pace for the Knights.
Broncos v Cowboys
I’m going to tip the Broncos to win in a close contest. Their forwards have been impressive physically and they should dominate a North Queensland pack that has looked sluggish and at times unfit. However, the Cowboys will be primed for a big performance and the likes of Matt Bowen and Johnathan Thurston will no doubt test the Broncos’ defence.
Roosters v Storm
Well, believe it or not, the Storm actually lost last weekend at Olympic Park. I don’t have the exact stats but any league fan can tell you that it doesn’t happen too often. I do have another statistic though, the Storm haven’t lost back to back matches since Round 4 2006. They’re too professional and well coached to lose two in a row and they should get the two points from the Roosters.
Raiders v Dragons
Here’s more statistics for you – the Dragons haven’t won in Canberra since 2000. However, I think they’re going to break their drought this Saturday night. Even though they won against Penrith the Raiders looked ordinary and if the St. George halves can get some early ball to centres Matt Cooper and Gasnier it should be game over.
Titans v Sharks
This game is an interesting one between two teams of contrasting styles. In their short history the Titans have always shown great attacking form at home, while the Sharks rely on their impenetrable defence to frustrate the opposition. On this occasion I think the defensive physicality of Cronulla will overcome the attacking flair of the Coast but it will be an enthralling contest either way.
Panthers v Rabbitohs
I can describe this match in two words – cripple fight. Both teams have been nothing short of dreadful in 2008 and this could really be quite painful to watch. The Rabbitohs’ halves pairing of John Sutton and Ben Rogers will stymie any potential South Sydney attack and I’m going to tip the Panthers to win simply due to their home ground advantage.
Bulldogs v Tigers
To put it simply, I think the Tigers will beat the Bulldogs. Their backline should have too much speed and agility for the ‘Dogs and yet another injury cloud over SB Williams (aka Sponge Bob Williams because he’s soft) will hurt their chances.
Sea Eagles v Warriors
Manly have disappointed so far in 2008 and have looked lost in attack without the nous of former dummy half Michael Monaghan. The Warriors, on the hand, were at their flamboyant best in their 30-16 win over the Eels. The boys from NZ have a surprisingly good record at Brookvake Oval and will win this encounter.
However you should follow my tips at your own peril. I tipped 3/8 last weekend to leave my season tally at an uninspiring 7/16 (44%). You’ll actually get better odds from tossing a coin..
And I apologise for the lateness of my predictions, as I attended a gig last night.
Please feel free to comment with your own tips!
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