Couch Critic provides the betting tips for the NRL matches taking place on the 11th and 12th of June in this preview brought to you by @Olimp_SA
NRL ROUND 5 – THURSDAY & FRIDAY MATCHES
Round 4 started superbly but got progressively worse with the Cowboys, Tigers and Dragons undoing the good work of the Storm and the Panthers earlier in the weekend. Here’s
how I see Round 5 playing out from a betting perspective.
MANLY SEA EAGLES vs BRISBANE BRONCOS – Thu 11 June @ 11:50, Central Coast Stadium
The Story thus far
Humiliating defeats to the Eels and Roosters in consecutive weeks have put the Broncos well down the table and in all sorts of strife. The Sea Eagles might sport a similar log position and record to their opponents however, even in defeat Manly have been impressive (and very unlucky at times) – this is still a team on the up at present.
Key for the Sea Eagles
When you look at a Sea Eagles team line-up you firstly check to confirm the presence of their dangerman, Tommy Turbo at the back. Then you check that Cherry-Evans is there to pull the strings from No 7 and if you can tick off the big ball carrying from Fonua-Blake at prop then you know the beach boys will be tough to beat.
Key for the Broncos
Brisbane are finally starting to welcome back some returning players. This week Jamayne Isaako will be back at fullback and Kotoni Staggs steadies the midfield with his return. Ben Te’o has also been named on the bench. The Broncos will however still be missing captain Glenn as well as their heavy hitting forwards Pangai and Fifita. There is also the serious mental question of trying to return from fifty-point drubbing.
Verdict
Despite a very unfortunate loss to the Storm, this Manly side has been incredibly impressive thus far. The same can’t be said for the Broncos of late. Yes, things can only get better for the Brisbane side and thankfully they are starting to welcome back some players but there is sure to be some morale denting scarring left in the squad from the past fortnight and that won’t just disappear overnight. The Sea Eagles should get the job done here.
NEW ZEALAND WARRIORS VS NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS – Fri 12 June @ 10:00, Central Coast Stadium
The Story thus far
It was back to the drawing board for the Warriors as they returned to their regular struggles as they were comprehensively shut out by the Panthers in Round 4. The Cowboys were tripped up by the Sharks to remain very much mid-table.
Key for the Cowboys
The only news that matters here is that it seems Taumalolo is destined to make a return to the team. Coen Hess crucially also appears fit for duty.
Key for the Warriors
Tohu Harris and Taunoa-Brown remain willing ball carriers but Kodi Nikorima will have to be at his running best if the Kiwis are to have a shot.
Verdict
The Cowboys really tripped over their own feet against Cronulla, but I expect them to set things right with some key players back in the mix.
PARRAMATTA EELS vs PENRITH PANTHERS – Fri 12 June @ 11:55, Bankwest Stadium
The Story thus far
The Eels are the only team in the competition with a perfect record after four rounds. Penrith are also still unbeaten in 2020 and despite a disappointing draw to the Knights they have certainly looked feisty.
Key for the Eels
Parramatta escaped off the hook at the death against Manly yet they have shown some good character in churning out close results. The Panthers should prove another good test, but few will expect them to slip up with the impressive Mitch Moses calling the shots. Maiko Sivo is an absolute beast on the wing who not only scores but has proven exceptional at creating opportunities with sublime offloads whilst Gutherson is an underrated and somewhat understated number 1 who does his job with efficiency. Campbell-Gillard is the unsung hero who does the hard yards as main carrier.
Key for the Panthers
The men in black seem to have most bases covered. Stephen Crichton is an explosive talent in the number 4 jumper and Viliame Kikau is explosive in the pack. Fisher-Harris was one of the players of Round 4 with his impressive ball carries from prop. The coach brings back his son, Nathan for this clash in the crucial Stand-off role.
Verdict
Make no mistake about it, Penrith will give the Eels a stern test, but the Parramatta side are confident and composed at the minute and I think they will take care of business at Bankwest on Friday night.
BETOLIMP BEST BETS (in order of preference)
Special Plays
Sea Eagles vs Broncos: HT/FT Winning Margin – Manly 1-8 / Manly 13+ @ 6.50
Warriors vs Cowboys: HT/FT Winning Margin – Cowboys 1-8 / Cowboys 13+ @ 8.00
Tryscorers
Sea Eagles vs Broncos
Warriors vs Cowboys
Eels vs Panthers
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(Note, all odds quoted are subject to change)
Couch Critic
