Best Bets
The Blues have struggled against local opposition, losing the last 15 games against Kiwi sides. The Hurricanes have won their last five clashes with the Blues and both of these sides will be boosted by the return of key players. Sonny Bill Williams and Ofa Tuungafasi return for the Blues, while the Hurricanes will be able to call upon the services of TJ Perenaa. The 2016 champions have been in outstanding form and are on a nine-match winning streak. Eden Park won’t hold any fear for the Hurricanes and I’m backing them to run out comfortable winners.
These two sides have built up an impressive rivalry, thanks to Lance Franklin’s defection from the Hawks to the Swans. Sydney have been inconsistent over the last two weeks and were brought back to earth by the Kangaroos at the SCG in round seven. The Hawks rebuilding process is coming together nicely and the form of Tom Mitchell and Jaeger O’Meara means that the Hawks can dare to dream of finals football. Matches between these two sides have been decided by less than two goals in the past and I think the trend will continue. I’m back the Hawks to salute and get the win.
Best Outsiders
The Mariners are slowly starting to gain some momentum as the season progresses. While their form has been patchy of late, they were impressive in game one of the series against the Blue Jays. Toronto are struggling with their offence and the Blue Jays have also have had to deal with some injuries over their last two games. The Mariners are playing some positive ball and are good value to cause an upset.
The Panthers could potentially be without up to 10 frontline players, as injuries have robbed them of their best side. The Knights have been travelling nicely and have won three of their last five games. Games between these two sides have traditionally been high scoring affairs and the Panthers will be relying heavily on James Maloney to get the better of the young Newcastle halves pairing. The Knights are 10th on the NRL ladder, but they represent some good value to cause the upset at home.