We have two exciting NRL Semi-Final matchups on the agenda this weekend. Starting on Friday night, we have a mouth-watering Grand Final rematch between the Roosters and Raiders. Then we head to Bankwest as the crippled Eels look to respond from last week’s defeat with a matchup against the red-hot Rabbitohs. The BetKing team are back with their betting tips for the two Semi-Finals!
Sydney Roosters vs Canberra Raiders
Friday October 9 | Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney | 7:50pm
The Roosters will look to bounce back from a tough 29-28 loss against the minor premiers in Penrith last week. After scoring the first two tries of the contest, a Nathan Cleary first-half hat-trick was the major difference between the sides. But Trent Robinson was pleased with their second-half comeback and his side should head into this Semi-Final with the confidence of keeping their season alive.
Similarly to all of the favourites in week one of the finals, the Raiders struggled early on against the Sharks and headed to the sheds down 14-10. But much like the regular season, it was the skill of Jack Wighton which fuelled Canberra’s comeback. He quickly scored a double after half-time and George Williams’ intercept try in the 56th minute basically ended the Sharks’ season.
In team selections, the Roosters will welcome back Jack Friend into the hooker position for Freddy Lussick. Meanwhile, Sonny Bill has recovered from injury and will rejoin the bench. At the Raiders, they’ve named an unchanged lineup from last week’s win.
In the two meetings this season, each side earned a victory and that should setup a close finals clash between two similar teams. Recently in Canberra, the Roosters defence was a class above in their 18-6 victory. But the Raiders previously beat them at the SCG, 24-20. Considering four of the last five meetings have been decided by under 6.5 points, we find huge value in the either team markets. This a massive Semi-Final for both sides and we can’t see a huge blowout in either direction.
Prediction: Either Team Under 6.5 Points @ $2.90
Parramatta Eels vs South Sydney Rabbitohs
Saturday October 10 | Bankwest Stadium, Sydney | 7:50pm
Parramatta had a tough night in Brisbane last Saturday night as they went down to the Storm 36-24. They couldn’t have asked for a better start after jumping out to a 12-0 lead. However, injuries basically crushed any chances of an upset as Sivo and Ferguson suffered knee injuries. So that forced a massive backline reshuffle and resulted in players out of position, which the Storm exposed throughout the second half.
Meanwhile, it was a contrasting performance by South Sydney after they fell behind the Knights 14-0. But after the 15th minute, it was all about the Rabbitohs as their attack clicked into top gear. Alex Johnson continued his try-scoring form with a double, Cam Murray and Cook combined for a brilliant try up the middle of the park. Tatola also added a rare double, including one of the softest tries in recent finals history!
A major storyline in this clash is the Eels injury crisis. At this stage, Ferguson has been named on the wing but that could definitely change. On the other wing, Sivo is out and Jennings will take his spot. Niukore has been suspended so Ray Stone gets his shot on the bench. For the Rabbitohs, they’ll come into this game with the same 17. They may switch Knight to start in the forward pack for Su’A before kick-off.
It’s pretty rare to see the higher placed team (3rd placed Eels) rated as the underdog in a home Semi-Final but the Eels are simply struggling with injuries. The Rabbitohs also smashed them 38-0 at Bankwest in late August. However, we’re keener on the points overs at the moment. Souths have been involved in 60+ total point outings in back-to-back games where their attack has dominated the Roosters/Knights. We’re not talking about bottom eight sides there either so Parramatta’s defence will be tested. Meanwhile, the Eels final last week totaled 60 points and they still have a strong enough attack between Moses/Brown to have success against Souths.
Prediction: Over 45.5 Points @ $1.90
For more free sports betting tips head to www.betking.com.au where you’ll also find an independent PlayUp Review.
