NRL Grand Final Preview
Penrith Panthers ($1.67) v South Sydney Rabbitohs ($2.20)
Sunday 3rd October 7:30PM, Suncorp Stadium
In true Rugby League fashion, storylines are abundant heading into Sunday’s Grand Final between the Penrith Panthers and South Sydney Rabbitohs at Suncorp. Penrith is looking to atone for last year’s loss to the Storm, while the Bunnies look to earn Wayne Bennett another premiership and secure their record 22nd premiership. Let’s hope the COVID-19 outbreak in Queensland does not worsen and those lucky enough to attend can enjoy what will be a terrific game.
The Panthers put in one of the great performances last round and despite the Storm uncharastically dropping a lot of ball, did enough to make their way to the grand final once again. Whilst they have struggled to score points in the finals fixtures - only having scored 28 points in the three games they have played - the Panthers will know they can run in the tries against this Souths side evidenced by their 40 point demolition of Souths earlier in the year. On the other hand, the Rabbitohs were written off by many once Latrell Mitchell was suspended for the year but have ridden the form of Dally M five eighth of the year Cody Walker to play in their first grand final since their famous success in 2014. There are no shortages of terrific matchups to look forward to including Cameron Murray up against Isaah Yeo, the two best locks in the competition this season, along with Api Korisau and Damien Cook, who’s control of the ruck will go a long way to winning the game for their respective teams.
I am most looking forward to the first 20 minutes of the game in what will no doubt be a significant feeling out period between both sides imposing forward packs, and I believe Ivan Cleary will once again start Liam Martin in place of Villiame Kikau to bolster his defensive unit. The concerns around Adam Reynolds groin and his ability to kick, both in general play and for goal, may be pivotal as we know both him and Nathan Cleary have the ability to control a game off the boot. As such, I am siding with the boys from Western Sydney on Sunday night in a tight contest, with the ‘Prince of Penrith’ Cleary to be named Clive Churchill Medal winner.
For a bit of value in other markets I am going with Kurt Capewell to score the first try off a 5th tackle mid field kick option.
Recommended Bet: Penrith 1-12 $2.85
First Try Scorer: Kurt Capewell $23
Clive Churchill Medal: Nathan Cleary $3.75
