Two teams in contrasting form open Round 6 of the 2026 NRL this Thursday, with the Canterbury Bulldogs hosting the Penrith Panthers at Accor Stadium.
Canterbury Bulldogs vs Penrith Panthers
It’s been three weeks since the Bulldogs picked up a win, losing to the Knights and Rabbitohs over the past two rounds.
No such concern for Penrith, who are flying high at five wins from five with a competition-leading +150 points differential, having thrashed Melbourne 50-10 last week.
Leg 1 - Panthers -17.5
Canterbury are typically known for their stoic defence, but they’ve conceded 24 and 32 points over the last fortnight.
It’s hard to see that changing against the Panthers, who are averaging 38 points per game this season and have covered the -17.5 line in all five matches.
With captain Stephen Crichton sidelined, expect some defensive disorganisation and another wide margin here.
Leg 2 - Tom Jenkins to Score
Jenkins has been red-hot in 2026, bagging 12 tries across just five appearances.
That output is driven by Penrith’s ability to create overlaps through Dylan Edwards, Paul Alamoti and Jenkins.
With Marcelo Montoya looking vulnerable on the Bulldogs’ left edge, Jenkins should continue to get chances.
Leg 3 - Nathan Cleary to Score
Cleary hasn’t matched Jenkins’ try output this season, but remains a constant threat with ball in hand.
He scored last week against the Storm and also crossed in Round 2 against Cronulla.
Playing in his 200th NRL match, expect Cleary to be heavily involved and potentially rewarded on the scoreboard.
Same Game Multi
Panthers -17.5 / Jenkins to Score / Cleary to Score = $5.20
Value Bet - Bronson Xerri to Score @ $3.60
Xerri starts for the first time in 2026, filling in for the injured Crichton.
The 25-year-old has plenty of speed and will be running off Matt Burton and Lachlan Galvin in the centres.
While he’s scored just once this season, he has 32 career tries and is a strong finisher.
If the Bulldogs are to score, Xerri is as good a chance as any.
