NFL Week 1 Betting Preview

Righto folks, it is that time of the season where the contact sports in Australia are coming to an end and people are begging to wonder where their "brutal" fix will come from. Most people will already know that NFL is where you can turn, but if you don't, begin to take notice. Not only that, there is an abundance of options for punters to make some good money from.

Indianapolis Colts @ Chicago Bears

This game signals the start of the "post-Peyton Manning" phase for the Colts and the Bears will be hoping to put an end to the hype surround new QB from Stanford, Andrew Luck. Not only that, the Colts will also begin this season with a new coach at the helm. They still have a lot of quality players in their squad to support Luck into the NFL but it does appear as though it will be tough to begin with. They will be rebuilding for a few years yet before success is reached. They will have a better season than they did last year but will still start with a loss. The Bears are a quality side that will be eggar to welcome back QB Jay Cutler to their side from injury. Expect them to get a good win over the Colts who are going to be giving it their all, but are ultimately rebuilding their franchise.

Odds

TAB Sportsbet = Colts $4.25 Bears $1.20

Centrebet = Colts $4.40 Bears $1.22

Sportsbet = Colts $4.85 Bears $1.20

Suggested Bet

Bears @ $1.22

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Philadelphia Eagles @ Cleveland Browns

Both sides come into this game with remarkable different expectations. The Eagles were some peoples picks last season as a potential Super Bowl winner but they didn't deliver. A lot of their hopes also rest on the shoulders of Michael Vick and as he has not had a full season without injury since his last in Atlanta in 2006. But the Browns are also hoping that their season takes a different path than it did last year as they ended the season 4-12. They are probably also going to gamble on starting rookies at QB and RB, both very crucial positions for a sides success. It will take some time for them to find their feet in the NFL but they will throw some surprises at the Eagles in this clash. Still, the Eagles should get a good win to start their season and hopefully for their sake, it is injury free.

Odds

TAB Sportsbet = Eagles $1.25 Browns $3.75

Centrebet = Eagles $1.24 Browns $4.20

Sportsbet = Eagles $1.22 Browns $4.50

Suggested Bet

Eagles @ $1.25

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St. Louis Rams @ Detroit Lions

After having more than a few dismal seasons, the Lions resurrected themselves back into winning form by going 10-6 and surprising a lot of people. Like the Eagles though, a lot of their success revolves around the fitness of their QB, and in this case it is Matthew Stafford. Stafford recovered from a season ending shoulder injury in 2010 and clawed his way back to full fitness to be a very influential figure in their offence. The Rams are aiming to reach the same heights of the Lions as they have been on a hiding to nothing for a few years of abismal performances. This game will be closer than most think because the Rams will rely heavily on their running game through Steven Jackson as they do not have a legitimate wide receiver. The Lions were also ranked 29th in the league for rush defence. They would have definitely improved in the off-season and a lot more than the Rams. So expect them to handle the Rams in front of their home fans.

TAB Sportsbet = Rams $4.50 Lions $1.18

Centrebet = Rams $4.35 Lions $1.23

Sportsbet = Rams $4.50 Lions $1.23

Suggested Bet

Lions @ $1.23

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Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets

The Jets have been in the spotlight for the trade of Tim Tebow to their ranks and it has rumoured to created some speculation around the stability of franchise QB Mark Sanchez. Maybe it could have had a positive effect on Sanchez as with Tebow looking over his shoulder, he will be forced to lift his performances to another level. The Jets also had a shocking preseason as they didn't win a game. But they will look to get their season off to a great start against a division rival, the Bills. They had a poor end to the season last year to finish the season 6-10, but they have done some rebuilding on defence and will be hoping that to patch up the holes that had them leaking points at a very fast rate last season. This game will be a lot closer than people think so be very cautious when betting on this game. Maybe the home ground advantage may just be the difference in this game.

TAB Sportsbet = Bills $2.50 Jets $1.58

Centrebet = Bills $2.22 Jets $1.68

Sportsbet = Bills $2.27 Jets $1.66

Suggested Bet

Jets @ $1.68

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Washington Redskins v New Orleans Saints

The Saints have had a cloud of controversy in their off season with the "bounties" being payed to players if they were to injure opposition players. The investigation is still on going but the Saints will look to move past it all and kick start their season with a win in front of their home fans. They are without their suspended coach Sean Payton but still have a good side at their disposal. Even more so now as the bans were lifted on LB Jonathan Vilma and DE Will Smith and they are able to play in this game. But there is also a lot of hype surround the Redskins and their acquisition of First-Round Draft pick Robert Griffin III. He will offer the Redskins a mountain of opportunities in offence but they cannot place too much pressure on him. The NFL is a big step from College and hype around certain players can often be misleading. The Redskins are rebuilding as well and will be faced with a tough side that is lead very well by a future Hall of Fame QB, Drew Brees. 

TAB Sportsbet = Redskins $4.25 Saints $1.20

Centrebet = Redskins $4.00 Saints $1.26

Sportsbet = Redskins $4.25 Saints $1.24

Suggested Bet

Saints @ $1.26

Verdict

It is a very "skinny" week this week in the NFL. It always is come the start of the season but hopefully if you multi a few games together, you can probably increase your value. Be sure to check out a few picks though in coming weeks but isn't it great that the NFL is back on our screens.

Good luck!

Scooby

@scoobystips

NRL Finals Week 1 Canberra Raiders v Cronulla Sharks Preview

Wait just there...you mean to tell me the Canberra Raiders made the semi finals? The Same Raiders side that was consistently inconsistent and were struggling to maintain their normally impressive home record? Well folks, if you are as surprised as I am about the Raiders being in the semi finals you need to get past that if and tune into Sunday footy down in the nations capital as the second Elimination Final in Week 1 kicks off. It is going to be some clash as well. Towards the end of the season, the Raiders were playing football that was yielding them victories and they managed to win their last 5 games to not only make the finals but score home field advantage. The Sharks were not so much on a slide as they were struggling to get their players back to full health and onto the field. They were losing games which they would've won with their early season form but they were good enough to get things back on track and salvage a place in the finals. What is disappointing is the fact that this game could have been playing up in Sydney as all the Sharks had to do was beat the Cowboys at Toyota Stadium in Round 26. Things didn't go to plan and the Raiders scored a victory over the Warriors in NZ and the tables were turned. But everything that has happened during the season will be forgotten and cannot effect the outcome in this game. The Raiders will be taking some confidence into this game from their strong finish to the season but the Sharks also have reason to be confident, despite a final round loss, they were very strong against the Storm in Melbourne in Round 25. There is only one game this Sunday for NRL fans to get their fix but if definitely going to be a great game of football. The loser of this game has their season end at the final whistle whilst the winner goes onto Week 2 to face the South Sydney Rabbitohs, who may look beatable after their loss to the Storm. This is sure to promote desperate and exciting football so ensure that you are in front of a TV at 4pm for when this game kicks off. Raise interest even more and maybe punters can jag a win or two from this game.

Canberra Raiders

The Raiders went into the game against the Warriors already knowing what was required of them as the Tigers were beaten by the Storm on Saturday night and it meant that the Raiders were going to be in the finals regardless, just unsure of where their fixture would be the next week. As a result, coach David Furner was happy to rest a few players that were suffering from injuries in order to freshen them up for this week. It did mean that the Raiders were ambushed early by the Warriors but they kept them scoreless in the second have and ran riot for their win. So this week the Raiders are back to full strength and Josh Dugan returns at fullback and Sam Williams in back in the number 7 jersey. The Raiders have named an extended bench of 7 which now includes Jarrad Kennedy, Travis Waddell and Dimitri Pelo. Those players are expected to drop out of the side but Furner could very well spring a surprise or two, especially which the use of utility Waddell. The return of Williams at half will also release the pressure off 5/8 Josh McCrone who has lifted to another level this season. He is getting the side around the park vey well and is taking the ball to the line and putting the defence in two minds. Of course, all of this doesn't happen unless the Raiders forwards have some momentum and take a stand against a very strong and dominating Sharks pack. The Raiders have the size on their side but a lot of questions can be asked of their bench if they come on the field and do not maintain the same intensity. They need to be consistent and ensure the exciting outside backs that the Raiders have are used at every possible chance. That word "consistent" will make Raiders fans uneasy but they only have to do it this week for 80 minutes and then they can worry about next week.

Cronulla Sharks

The Sharks were rocked a little bit in the loss to the Cowboys but all momentum was not gone from their performance. There were actually a few things in that game that Sharks fans can be excited about. The performance of Todd Carney in that game was impressive and he single handedly kept the Sharks in the contest for majority of the match. They were also very well supported by some of their forwards as well. But the hype surrounding this game will certainly have some of the focus shifted towards Carney and his returning to his hometown where he was booted out of and told never to return based on his alcohol problems and chaos that he caused. The Raiders fans will be hostile in this game to say the least. With the person and player that Carney has developed into, I would expect him to relish this and rise above it. The Sharks were also in the headlines early in the week with a lot of interest around Ben Pomeroy and the late shot he put on Thurston in the Cowboys game. He was found guilty of dangerous contact and ruled out of the next two matches. His place is taken by Ricky Leutele, the player who has been filling his role whilst he was out of the side through injury and suspension in pervious weeks. Wade Graham has also been named on an extended bench along with Sam Tagataese and Tyson Frizell. Expect Sharks coach to play around with the final make up of his final lineup so stay tuned to my twitter feed for a final side. The inclusion of Graham from injury will have a positive effect on the side as he is growing into a fantastic player and will definitely add another dimension to the Sharks back row. A lot of pressure is also taken off Paul Gallen with Graham in the side but either way, expect a monster effort from their inspirational captain, a captain who can consider himself robbed of 2012 "Captain of the Year".

Recent History

Overall = Raiders 27 - Sharks 31

Last 5 games = Raiders 3 - Sharks 2

At Canberra Stadium = Raiders 13 - Sharks 8

Odds

TAB Sportsbet = Raiders $1.65 Sharks $2.30

Centrebet = Raiders $1.65 Sharks $2.30

Sportsbet = Raiders $1.65 Sharks $2.30

Betfair = Raiders $1.69 Sharks $2.44

Sportingbet = Raiders $1.65 Sharks $2.30

Verdict

Everything in this game is suggesting the Raiders. They have had a great finish to the season, will be high on confidence and will be playing in front of a pack home stadium. Despite all of this though, I am going to take the Sharks. The Raiders still have a few question marks hanging over their play and can easily make mistakes in their own half of the field that can help the Sharks. They will definitely not allow the Sharks to walk over them through the game. It will be a typical "finals game" with a close contest and high pressure football. But with all of the value that is surround the Sharks, it is very hard to go past them.

Suggest Bet

Sharks @ $2.44 (with Betfair)

Line up your double = Sharks +4.5/Under 41.5 @ $3.10 - This double offers plenty of value, leads to a Sharks win and a low scoring game. What more could a punter want from this bet?

A close call = Sharks 1-12 @ $3.25 - If the Sharks do win this game, it would be very surprising to see them win by 13+ ($6.00) and there is a lot of value with them winning this game by a smaller margin.

Good luck!

Scooby

@scoobystips

NRL Finals Week 1 North Queensland Cowboys v Brisbane Broncos Preview

Queensland fans will have their loyalty tested this week and a passionate bunch of people will be yelling for one another's blood to be spilt on the field. It is going to be a very exciting game up in Townsville as the Cowboys are at home to the Broncos in the second Saturday night semi final. The Broncos have always been the "big brother" to the Cowboys but in recent years, the Cowboys are starting to emerge from their shadow. They are relying heavily on the likes of Johnathan Thurston and Matt Bowen to get them through the tough clashes but now they are being supported by some representative players around them. Then there are other players who are playing over and above what is expected of them and it when they are all clicking on the same level, they are a very dangerous side to face in a game. It is also a very daunting task to go up to Townsville and beat the Cowboys, especially considering that this game will be sold out. Yet that is what lies ahead of the Broncos. This is a side that was looking very good early on this season and looming as though they would give this competition a real shake. Then they went on a horrid run of games where they were unable to produce a win despite the amount of energy and effort they applied. Things were certainly getting very frustrating for their squad but coach Anthony Griffin was adamant that he was not going to quit on his side and he is clearly along for the ride with them. But this is semi final football now and other NRL sides will not tolerate a dismal performance, they will put you away and move onto the next week. The Broncos certainly have the class of player within their side but are seemingly lacking direction around the field, mainly due to Peter Wallace and Corey Norman. A lot of people are quick to judge Wallace and his play but at the end of the day, he is playing in a side that was once Darren Lockyer's. A side that knew their job like the back of their hand and were lead into to battle by Lockyer at every turn. He is not there now and a lot of pressure has fallen on Wallace. In all seriousness though, some of the blame has to also be placed on other senior members of this side that have far greater accolades in the representative arena. Unfortuantely, this does not win you games and you still need to get the job done on game day. The Cowboys-Broncos rivalry is always a great game to watch but the feeling within this contest is amplified by the fact that it is now "sudden death" football and there is no chance of playing next week, it's next season. The first elimination game is sure to be great viewing for all and fans of rugby league will be rewarded if they watch this game. Fingers crossed and maybe punters can get a win as well!

North Queensland Cowboys

The Cowboys turned in a very impressive display when they took on the Sharks down at Toyota Stadium. They were firing on all cylinders and sent out a warning to other sides within the Top 8 that they are a team that is to be respected. There is only a few changes from that side which was always going to happen. Matt Scott was a late withdrawal from that game and his place was taken by Ashton Sims in the starting side and Joel Riethmuller on the bench. Riethmuller has been named on the extended bench along with Sims. Anthony Mitchell was also a late withdrawal from that game and the utility spot was filled by James Segeyaro. Both have been named but after the dominating display from Segeyaro, you would expect that Mitchell may be left out along with Riethmuller. The positive thing for the Cowboys now is that they have a squad that has formed some exciting combinations. Thurston and Bowen are sharing their roles within the side well and they know when to inject themselves into the game. Their jobs are also being made easier by the room that is created by the forwards with each carry they have. They're an intimidating and sizeable pack that will not shy away from a tough contest. This only allows Thurston and Bowen more room to move and give the ball to the outside backs. Just when you think they might lose momentum, they go to their bench. The Cowboys are at their best when they are playing a fast paced game and it helps them when the intensity can be maintained by the fresh players coming into the game. 

Brisbane Broncos

The Broncos returned to the winner circle after a much needed victory over the Panthers last week at home to the Panthers. It wasn't the most convincing performance but it did get them over the line and into the semi finals for 2012. At the end of the day, you have to be there to be a chance of winning the competition. Yes, they were limping towards the finals and they are going to be punished with a tough task ahead of them if they are to survive into Week 2. They have been playing well in most area's but have been out of luck for majority of their recent contests. Then again, the good sides make their own luck. Coach Anthony Griffin has been chopping and changing his side in recent week in search of answer but none have come up. Therefore he has stuck with the same squad that had gotten the job done over the Panthers. More importantly, the halves pairing of Norman and Wallace have remained. Both of these guys are going to need to be high on confidence to produce their best performance. They will also need a good platform set for them by the forwards. Big Petero is retiring at the seasons end and he will be giving it his all but perhaps this is where they are most vulnerable as younger players are missing out who are sure to be more mobile around the middle of the park. Either way, all players for the Broncos will have to be at their best to get a win over the Cowboys here. If they can get their act together, they could be a handful for the Cowboys because their backs posses speed and great finishing ability. This just goes to waste unless they have the ball.

Recent History

Overall = Cowboys 7 - Draw 2 - Broncos 24

Last 5 games = Cowboys 3 - Broncos 2

At Diary Farmers Stadium = Cowboys 3 - Draw 1 - Broncos 14

Odds

TAB Sportsbet = Cowboys $1.43 Broncos $2.85

Centrebet = Cowboys $1.47 Broncos $2.75

Sportsbet = Cowboys $1.45 Broncos $2.85

Betfair = Cowboys $1.47 Broncos $3.05

Sportingbet = Cowboys $1.47 Broncos $2.75

Verdict

You cannot dodge the elephant in the room. The Broncos are a side on the slide and the Cowboys are a team that is on the rise. Add in the fact that the Cowboys have sold out their home ground and the Broncos will certainly have a battle on their hands. They posses a stronger pack of forwards and will be better for their victory over the Sharks on Sunday, all be it that it is a very short turn around for them. The Broncos look like a tired side still searching for answers and that is not a side that I want to invest my money on at this stage of the season.

Suggested Bet

Cowboys @ $1.47

Semi final football = Cowboys @ $2.75 - Semi final football generally produce close contests but games between these sides are also always close. Emotions will be high and with the stakes high, no side will be willing to give up their shot at the premiership without a fight.

Graham's-a-payin' = Ashley Graham First Try Scorer @ $9 - Since returning from injury, this guy has quickly returned to his try scoring best. There is no reason why he cannot get another "First Try" in this game. Thurston is always looking to see where this guy is on the field.

Good luck!

Scooby

@scoobystips

NRL Finals Week 1 Melbourne Storm v South Sydney Rabbitohs Preview

Saturday remains pretty "Super" this weekend as NRL fans are treated to two semi final encounters that are sure to be amazing contests. The first game kicks off at 5:45pm down in Melbourne and see's the tried and tested Storm host the superstar Rabbitohs who are looking for their first title since 1971. It has been a long wait for the Rabbitohs as their last finals appearance since 1989 was only in 2007 when they were bundled out in the first week after a loss to Manly at Brookvale. They have had a very good season by their usual standards and they have finished in 3rd place. They have earned their spot on the back of some very dominating forward play and a great rookie season from the "2012 Rookie of the Year" Adam Reynolds. Fans of the Rabbitohs would be quick to tell you though that they are actually hoping that this season lasts right up until 30th September, with a win of course. If they are to last right up until then, they must look to get past the Storm. They will get a "second chance" if they lose here but they would also be rewarded with a week off if they were to win. The Storm will be pushing hard for that week off as it would allow their players another week of rest to recover from some injuries that seem to be limiting their play at the moment. None more so that Billy Slater who appears to still suffering from the effects of an injury suffered in SOO 2. But as Slater has been slowed, Cronk has certainly lifted to another level, as has Cameron Smith. That is what you come to expect from superstar players though, be cautious though as they can only get them so far. They already look worn out and in need of support, support that isn't really coming from their pack. There is definitely a big question mark hanging over their heads in this department as they are not as dominating as they once were. The Sharks proved a few weeks ago that if you can beat them here, you are going to be in a very strong position to win the game. Expect coach Craig Bellamy to be working very hard on patching up this area of their play. You are also going to see a match up between Bellamy and his former assistant come Rabbitohs coach, Michael Maguire. This game promises to be a very exciting and tough contest between two sides that are promising to give this competition a good shake in weeks to come.

Melbourne Storm

The Storm thrive on consistency and they have again gone with almost an unchanged lineup after a good win over the Tigers, or so it appears. While they named a similar team team to the one in Round 26, the team that took the field against the Tigers was remarkably different to the one that is named this week. Dane Nielsen was in to replace Justin O'Neill, Jason Ryles was out and he was replaced on field by Brian Norrie and in the side by Richie Fa'aoso. Anthony Quinn was also a late withdrawal and was replaced by Mahe Fonua. In this game, Todd Lowrie is out of this game and his place at lock is taken by Ryan Hinchcliffe who moves off the bench and his bench spot is taken by Rory Kostasyn. With that in mind, the Storm will look to resume normal proceedings for this game. As mentioned above though, there is a few issues with their forwards. Smith has the forwards working well out of dummy half and is trying to get them over the advantage line. This is proving tougher here than in seasons gone by. While this is a problem, they probably more vulnerable in their defence. When they come up against a very strong pack, they can often struggle to hold them away from gaining easy metres up the middle of the field. There can also be times in the game when they have Smith, Kostjasyn and Hinchcliffe in the middle of the field. Whilst they are good defenders, they are not very imposing and do not force the opposition back with their defence, they simply become a more mobile pack. There is two players have are added to the extended bench for the Storm this week in the form of Richie Fa'aoso and Siosaia Vave. It would be likely that these two players will be the two that will drop out of the side before kick off.

South Sydney Rabbitohs

Welcome back to Finals football for the Rabbitohs since 2007. It has been a long and tough road back for this side as each year they start with a lot of hope and promise, but never deliver. The club needed a transformation and they received it in the form of Michael Maguire taken over as coach. Much like Hasler, he has his players buying into his theory and it is showing with more controlled play in games. They are the only side in the NRL this season that has maintained the exact same halves pairing for every game of the 2012 season. It was always going to be important to their success that this was maintained as young halfback Adam Reynolds was always going to find the NRL tough. He has risen to the task and has been recognised with a seasoned award. He would give it all up to for a premiership no doubt and that will be his and his teams motivation in coming weeks. Reynolds has also been well support by Sutton who has transformed himself around as a 5/8. In saying that though, he is capable of going missing in game when the heat is on and Melbourne will be targeting him. It is crucial to the Rabbitohs success that he gets involved when he is needed. In terms of the side for this game, there is no change to the side that grounded out a 12-point victory over the Knights in Newcastle. They were certainly firing in that game and they were lead in the middle of the park by their forwards. Issac Luke was also promoted back into the side but played from the bench. He is again named on the bench here and there is no indication to the involvement that he will have in this game. The Rabbitohs have named an extended bench of 7 so there are 3 players that have to drop off before kick off. This looks likely that it will be Ben Lowe, Dave Tyrrell and Justin Hunt. The Rabbitohs must play to their strength which is their forwards and look to dominate a Storm pack that has a few questions to be asked of them. They must ensure that they are also creating enough room for the outside backs to excel. Not only that, but they will also want to give Inglis enough room to move and challenge the Storm defenders at every possible point. They will rely heavily on him to get them over the line but cannot leave him everything to do.

Recent History

Overall = Storm 16 - Rabbitohs 3

Last 5 games = Storm 4 - Rabbitohs 1

At AAMI Stadium = Storm 2 - Rabbitohs 0

Odds

TAB Sportsbet = Storm $1.65 Rabbitohs $2.25

Centrebet = Storm $1.65 Rabbitohs $2.30

Sportsbet = Storm $1.67 Rabbitohs $2.25

Betfair = Storm $1.70 Rabbitohs $2.38

Sportingbet = Storm $1.65 Rabbitohs $2.30

Verdict

This is semi final football and there is no surprise that this game will be another close one. There is one thing that is working against the Rabbitohs and that is their very poor record against the Storm. This include in Melbourne, where they are yet to win a match. But there is a first for everything and they certainly have the stock within their side this year to give the Storm a run for their money. The Sharks have shown in the last few weeks how to beat the Storm and the Rabbitohs will definitely be ready for a fierce battle in the middle of the field. They will also hope that the knowledge of the individual players will give Maguire a great insight ahead of this clash. Then again, that will count for little unless the Rabbitohs to get the job done on the day.

Suggested Bet

Rabbitohs @ $2.38 (with Betfair)

A close call = Rabbitohs 1-12 @ $3.40 - If the Rabbitohs were to win this game, it would be extremely surprising to see them win this match by 13+ points. For that reason, the 1-12 margin does seem very inviting and a great source of value.

Down to the wire = Rabbitohs 1-6 @ $6 - This game could go down the bounce of the ball in the dying minutes and this bet would then come into play. Not as accurate as the bet mentioned above but if you are thinking of a close Rabbitohs victory, then this option should appeal to you.

Good luck!

Scooby

@scoobystips

NRL Finals Week 1 Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs v Manly Warringah Sea Eagles Preview

So here it is folks, the business end of the season where everyones focus turns to 8 teams that have played well enough throughout the season to earn a shot at the big prize, the premiership. For the first time in a number of years though, the NRL is using a different finals system that is "fairer" to those sides that finish in the top 4. They get a "second chance" if they lose in Week 1 of the Finals as well as home field advantage in Week 2 if they were to lose. It is definitely a good improvement and now has teams playing right to the end of the season to benefit them over others. 2012 has seen a high level of rugby league and Finals football is always going to throw up a great contest. It seems fitting that the clash to open the finals in 2012 is a clash between two sides that have a lot in common. A lot was made in the 2011 off-season about the switch of Des Hasler from the Sea Eagles to the Bulldogs. Not many people expected him to work the wonders that he has with this squad but he has certainly earned his billing as "Coach of the Year" for 2012. To go along with that accolade, he has also transformed fullback Ben Barba from a player lacking in confidence to one of the best players in the game at the moment and the current Dally M winner. So what do the Sea Eagles have to say about this? For starters, they are the other form side of the competition and a team that everyone is hoping to avoid (until the Grand Final at least). They have players that have been in this situation before and lift for the big games. They also know how to get a win in the big games. More importantly, they also have a great set of halves that are leading their side very well at the moment. So are they as unbeatable as everyone thinks? Certainly not, but if a team was to beat them, they must be prepared to play a great game of mistake free rugby league. This contest is going to be a very bruising encounter as well as a tight contest. As a fan, I cannot wait and as a punter I will be looking deeper into this contest to pick a winner and get the weekend off to a great start.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

The Bulldogs bounced back last week from a shock loss to the Raiders in Round 25, to trounce the Roosters convincingly. Whilst it was a very dominating display, there was a time within the first half where the Bulldogs looked on shaky ground. The Roosters fought back early and got the score back to 12-10 and looked well in the contest, that is until the Bulldogs kicked into second gear and then scored 32-unanswered points. They put on quiet a show and it was a great way for them to win the Minor Premiership for 2012. As quick as they were presented the shield, the players and coaches were touting the phrase, "the job is only half done" and "we are still not the form side heading towards the finals". But that is what works well for Des Hasler and his squad. They will go into this match generally believing that they have a point to prove...and they do! In terms of the squad, exactly the same side has been named but Dene Halatau has been added to an extended bench as he has recovered from a leg injury. He was one of the in form players for the Bulldogs this season before he was injured. Yet as the NRL would have it, Josh Jackson has stepped up in his absence and proved himself as one of the up and coming players for the Bulldogs. Halatau will find it very tough to get back into the side as a starting player. The Bulldogs have named 6 on the extended bench so there is 2 players that have to drop off prior to kick off. Leading into this game you will also here a lot of people say the Bulldogs "do not have the halves to win the comp" and whilst it is relevant, I find it hard to agree. The style that the Bulldogs play with each game does not warrant halves dominating the games as they traditionally would. Their play involves the forwards having a more dominating role on moving the ball to the outside backs. The Sea Eagles are going to be prepared to counteract this but expect the Bulldogs to have something up their sleeve.

Manly Warringah Sea Eagles

As mentioned several times above, the Sea Eagles are the side to beat. They are getting their squad back to full fitness and have a pair of young halves that are experience well beyond what their careers suggest. It does help them though, when they are playing behind a forward pack that is bruising in defence and explosive in attack. Teams are genuinely going to fear the Sea Eagles with the side that they are able to field each week. They will just have to hope that they do not receive and more injuries to their side, otherwise their squads depth will definitely be tested. Like the Bulldogs, their squad is also unchanged heading into this clash. More importantly, their bench remains the same. They can get some good minutes out of their starting side but when their props have to come off the field and they need the intensity maintained, these blokes can do it. The forwards will also have to go out their a prove a point against a side that relies on their forwards more than most. Defensively, the Sea Eagles have the stock to dominate within the middle of the field and force the ball out wide. That is where the Sea Eagles will also excel with the presence of Jamie Lyon and Steve Matai out wide. They can shut down their opposing players with or without the ball and limit the potency of teams when it matters most.

Recent History

Overall = Bulldogs 49 - Draw 5 - Sea Eagles 61

Last 5 games = Bulldogs 2 - Sea Eagles 3

At ANZ Stadium = Bulldogs 3 - Sea Eagles 5

Odds

TAB Sportsbet = Bulldogs $2.10 Sea Eagles $1.75

Centrebet = Bulldogs $2.15 Sea Eagles $1.73

Sportsbet = Bulldogs $2.10 Sea Eagles $1.75

Betfair = Bulldogs $2.20 Sea Eagles $1.81

Sportingbet = Bulldogs $2.15 Sea Eagles $1.73

Verdict

This is going to be a very tough game to pick and you can state a case for both sides winning this game. The Bulldogs were last start winners over the Sea Eagles at Brookvale and have Des Hasler on their side, a coach who knows the Manly players inside out. It showed in their two battles with them this year. The games have always been balanced and in the second game, it was the Bulldogs who used everything they had to get them a win. The way both sides were speaking in press conferences this week, you would think that they are both $2.45 outsiders. But Manly are the favorites and they are deserving of that tag. They have a class of player in their side that is experienced and will lift to another level in this game. It may well be something that the Bulldogs players are yet to face. I am going to say the Sea Eagles, but this game will be a close one and if the bounce of the ball goes their way, the Bulldogs could very well prevail.

Suggested Bet

Sea Eagles @ $1.81 (very reluctantly!) 

Tri for your bet = Tri Bet Either Side Under 6.5 points @ $2.40 - It is all mentioned above, this game is going to be extremely close. It could even go down to the last play of the game. If you do not want to make a call on the game, this is the bet for you. Either way, it certainly spells value for us as punters.

No Wright option = Dean Whare First Try @ $11 - This guy will be going up against Jonathan Wright and in the last few weeks, the Bulldogs left hand side has been exposed in a big way. Expect the Sea Eagles to seek a try out on this side of the field early.

Good luck!

Scooby

@scoobystips

NRL Round 26 Parramatta Eels v St George Illawarra Dragons Preview

The magnitude of this game is certainly going to be felt come the final whistle as 4 players retire from NRL football. It is also a great sign of the appreciation that fans have for their favorite players and just what is takes to be a regular NRL first grader. Who would've thought that a game in Round 26 which features two sides who are out of contention for the 2012 premiership would draw the biggest crowd. There will be a great atmosphere out at ANZ Stadium and even though there has been a lot made over the shift from Parramatta Stadium, the fans have been rewarded and will have one last chance to say goodbye. Both sides have had extremely disappointing seasons and a lot of changes will be made (hopefully) during the off season. Parramatta are going to be transformed by the arrival of Ricky Stuart as head coach. Under performing players will be put on notice or even sacked to wake them up from their slumber. Performance is everything in the NRL and people will not tolerate another poor season. The Dragons also have a lot of water to pass under the bridge but it appears as though they could be stuck in their rut for a few seasons yet. Coach Steve Price is under a mountain of pressure and could even be sacked in the off season. There also isn't many changes being made to their roster so where will their spark come from? That is what the offseason will hopefully unearth for them. If not, another dismal season lies ahead and they could have regular "nothing games". If there wasn't the four players retiring this season, this game would be a "nothing contest" and it wouldn't generate any interest amongst NRL fans. That is where the punters come into the fold, it is still an opportunity to have a bet and win some money. So lets move past all the sentimental feeling around this game, stop giving hugs and put the tissues away! Let's win some money! 

Parramatta Eels

The Eels players are trying to impress future coach Ricky Stuart with their performances but some of them have a long way to go. Last week the Eels were comprehensively beaten by a Rabbitohs team that muscled their way around the field. It was evident from watching that game that a lot of the player need an attitude change and something more to play for. There will definitely be a collective sigh of relief when the final whistle goes in terms of it ending a painful season. Chris Sandow hasn't lived up to his price tag and is obviously struggling to play alongside other individual players withint the side. The forwards are also a pack which has failed to assert their dominance in many games this season. That has made things tougher for Sandow and the other outside backs. In terms of the side this week, there is no change to the starting 13 but there is one change to the bench. Casey McGuire has been recalled to the bench at the expense of Justin Poore. This change could be aimed at giving hooker Nathan Smith a rest throughout the game but that would be a bad decision as he has been one of the positives to come out of this season with his performances. 

St George Illawarra Dragons

The Dragons are riding high after a very dominating display over the Warriors. It would've been frustrating for Dragons fans that an effort like that took until the second last game in the season to be shown. Then again, it was only the Warriors. Nonetheless, you can only beat what is in front of you. It was an attacking performance that saw the Dragons backs have room to move and create try scoring opportunities out of nothing. This was set up by the forwards running strongly and breaking the advantage line with each carry. Coach Price has persisted with relatively the same squad all season, surprising most by not "blooding" a few younger players for some experience. This has not changed here as he is gone with the same squad just a few changes to its make up. Matt Prior is promoted to the starting side in the second row while Will Matthews shifts back to the bench. Cameron King is also a new face on the extended bench of 6 but he is expected to drop out prior to kick off along with Jack Stockwell.

Recent History

Overall = Eels 11 - Draw 2 - Dragons 12

Last 5 games = Eels 0 - Draw 1 - Dragons 4

At ANZ Stadium = Eels 2 - Dragons 1

Odds

TAB Sportsbet = Eels $2.10 Dragons $1.75

Centrebet = Eels $2.05 Dragons $1.80

Sportsbet = Eels $2.00 Dragons $1.85

Betfair = Eels $2.12 Dragons $1.87

Sportingbet = Eels $2.05 Dragons $1.80

Verdict

You can see both sides lifting for this game as a result of the departing players. Makes sense any way because there is nothing else to play for. On paper the Dragons are the stronger side and should get a win, but the Eels will not let it happen easily. You can almost see this game being a very tough draw and rugby league being the real winner (sentimental stuff is running high!). For the sake of picking a winner though (I cannot believe I am tipping this side as I don't think that I've tipped them all year!), I am going to say Parramatta (cringe). You will see these sides lift to another level that they have not been at this year so expect a very close game as well.

Suggested Bet

Eels @ $2.12 (with Betfair)

Close game = Eels 1-12 @ $3.75 - It will be a game that is close and emotions will be running high. Take the Eels to get home in a close one. If your are thinking St George though, 1-12 for them would be my choice as well @ $3.25.

Make a precise call = Eels 1-6 @ $6.50 - No more explanation needed on this point, it's all listed above. 

Just a suggestion = Why not cash in on the event and take one of the retiring stars to score either first or last try for a "fairytale" to come true? 

Good luck!

Scooby

@scoobystips

NRL Round 26 Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys Preview

The "match-of-the-day" is at Shark Park as a battered and bruised Cronulla side return home after losing to the Melbourne Storm in the last 30 seconds on their MNF clash. It was definitely a tough loss for them to have at this point of the season but Sharks fans need not worry too much about that loss. If anything, it was a positive performacne as they were making mistakes during the game but were able to stick with the Storm. More importantly, they were able to dominate them in the forwards and the Sharks showed that they will be playing to this strength for the remainder of the season. It is very fitting then that the "match-of-the-day" is a battle between two sides that are certain to play finals football the following week. The Cowboys are starting to look like a very dangerous team and just have to hope that their away record can reverse and they can find how to win in Sydney. They will know their fate come this game as to where they are able to finish on the table. If either the Sea Eagles or Rabbitohs lose, they could sneak into the top 4 and whilst losing a home semi final, they would grab a "second chance" if they were to lose in Week 1. If both of those sides win however, we could be faced with a "non event" as the Cowboys may opt to rest a few players in order to freshen them up the following week. The Sharks are in a similar position yet are unable to finish any higher than where they currently are now (6th) but a loss here and a win to the Raiders would demote them to 7th and then they would lose a home field advantage in Week 1 of the Finals. It would be unlikely that the Sharks would rest any players here, they are just getting their squad back to full fitness and working back towards the early season form that saw them riding high in the competition. The uncertainty around the final make up of the squads will not withdraw from the spectical that this clash is. This game will be a great preview for the finals and will be played with an intensity that the top side continually reach for to get over their opponents. The winners of all this are the fans and maybe if we take a deeper look into this contest, we can unearth a winner to make this game even more enjoyable.

Cronulla Sharks

The Sharks had a few late withdrawals in their clash over the Storm but they are definitely going to take the field in this clash. As far as the two sides that were named from last week to this one, there is no change. However the final team that took the field for MNF was minus Matthew Wright at fullback and Anthony Tupou in the second row for the second straight week. There is also some news floating around that either Wade Graham or Nathan Gardener, or even both, will make a return from injury to the side. The Sharks have also named an extended bench of five and you would think that Tyson Frizell would be the player that misses out. But coach Shane Flanaghan must be uncertain over this decision as Frizell's form this season since coming into the side has been great. He has carried the ball forward with great momentum and has proved extremely hard to stop. It is mentioned above, the strength within this side is definately their forwards. They are a hard pack to stop at the best of times and create a lot of room for Todd Carney and Jeff Robson to build off and get the ball to the outside backs. The backs are a weakness in defence for the Sharks and teams will look to exploite this at all costs, often catching them out wide or pressuring them from kick returns. Cutting out the mistakes that they made on MNF would go a long way to improving this Sharks side.

North Queensland Cowboys

The Cowboys turned in a great performance against the Knights at home as there were times in the game where the Knights looked as though they were going to be able to produce something special and beat the Cowboys. But the real class prevailed in the end and Thurston and Bowen lead the side around the park very well. They were also assisted by the Cowboys monster forward pack that was able to continually break past the advantage line and gain a quick play the ball. Of course this is when the Cowboys are at their best, in a very fast paced game. You would think that there is no need to change a winning formula but coach Neil Henry has made a few tweaks. Michael Morgan is recalled after being a late withdrawal and his replacement for that game, Anthony Mitchell has moved back to the bench. Ricky Thorby is out of the clash altogether as he was for the Knights game and his replacement there, Jason Taumalolo is named on the bench. Those are the only two changes to the side but Henry has added Blake Leary and James Segeyaro to an extended bench of 7 to obviously suggest that depending on other results, the Cowboys could be resting a few players come kick off. It will be interesting to see what does happen because a move like that can often mean a sudden loss of momentum to a side.

Recent History

Overall = Sharks 20 - Cowboys 9

Last 5 games = Sharks 2 - Cowboys 3

At Toyota Stadium = Sharks 10 - Cowboys 2

Odds

TAB Sportsbet = Sharks $1.52 Cowboys $2.60

Centrebet = Sharks $1.52 Cowboys $2.60

Sportsbet = Sharks $1.52 Cowboys $2.60

Betfair = Sharks $1.50 Cowboys $2.70

Sportingbet = Sharks $1.52 Cowboys $2.60

Verdict

Judging by the prices listed above, the bookies know that the Cowboys are going to rest a few players. They are always well in the know because at the end of the day they will lose money otherwise. So will the Sharks rest any players as well? They are still a good price if the Cowboys will be weaker so get on while you can. The Sharks would want to finish 6th as well to get that home final. Expect a bold showing from the Cowboys though and they will make the Sharks work for this win. Sharks to get a good win and build more momentum heading into Week 1 of the Finals.

Suggested Bet

Sharks @ $1.52

Smaller Margin = Sharks 1-12 @ $3.10 - The Sharks do not generally win games by scoring a lot of points. Their games are built around scoring a few points and allowing their tough defence to get them over the line. I expect this game to be no different.

Be specific on a margin = Sharks 7-12 @ $5.50 - Obviously you are biting a little more off here but there is plenty of value to be won in doing so. If you are going to follow the 1-12 bet then also consider this. Note that 1-6 is @ $6.

Good luck!

Scooby

@scoobystips