Couch Critic provides the betting tips for the NRL matches taking place on the 18th and 19th of June in this preview brought to you by @Olimp_SA
NRL ROUND 6 – THURSDAY & FRIDAY MATCHES
Round 5 of NRL was an absolute horror show for this pundit. The Cowboys were the big culprits in costing be packets yet the Broncos showing some bottle as well as the Eels having to work harder than expected all cost me badly. But cowboys don’t cry and I’m ready to saddle up for another thrilling weekend of footy!
NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS vs BRISBANE BRONCOS – Thu 18 June @ 11:50, Central Coast Stadium
The Story thus far
The Broncos remain in the Thursday night time slot, this time to tackle the tough Newcastle team. The Knights performed in spurts against the Storm last time out but in the end their lacklustre start against the Storm proved too much to overcome. It was however their first loss of 2020 whilst the Broncos are struggling down in 12th spot with three losses on the bounce since the re-start of the season.
Key for the Clash
Superstar, Kaylan Ponga wasn’t at his best against Melbourne last week – the home side will need more from him as they look to pile on the hurt on the struggling Brisbane outfit. Round 5 showed that there still is some life in this bunch of Broncos. The question is whether that fighting 1st half gives them some much needed motivation or if the 2nd half fall away breaks their spirits further? Brisbane will miss Staggs but crucially welcome back Tevita Pangai and Alex Glenn amongst the forwards.
Verdict
The handicap has been set at one score and this makes it a tough cap to call. If anything, one would feel the Knights have a chance of really opening the taps but I find it tough opposing a Broncos side who are starting to welcome back some quality.
SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS vs NEW ZEALAND WARRIORS – Fri 19 June @ 10:00, Bankwest Stadium
The Story thus far
We finally saw some of the vintage Bunnies against the Titans last Saturday. As expected, Latrell Mitchell is getting nearer his best as his fitness improves and his touch returns. The return of Cody Walker also seemed to free up Adam Reynolds at halfback. There are many teams in the NRL who can learn from the New Zealanders – despite not having the talent and skill of many other teams the Warriors are never lacking for pure heart and commitment in their performances.
Key for the Clash
Before Round 5 it was my opinion that Kodi Nikorima would have to be at his best to challenge the Cowboys and boy was the Kiwi 6 at his sharpest taking the ball to the line. If Mitchell continues his upward curve in terms of form it could be a long, hard day at the office for the team from New Zealand.
Verdict
Will heart and 110% effort be enough to overcome a Bunnies team on the up – I think not. The Rabbitohs have turned the corner and they will put the Warriors away on Friday.
PENRITH PANTHERS vs MELBOURNE STORM – Fri 19 June @ 11:55, Campbelltown Stadium
The Story thus far
The Panthers have been one of the surprise performers this season and kept the impressive Eels to zero for over an hour in Round 5 before letting things skip at the end. The Storm for their part finally clicked into gear in a first half of footy but then went to sleep for half an hour in the second.
Key for the Panthers
Stephen Crichton got exposed against Waqa Blake in the centres last week but remains the most potent of the men in black. Nathan Cleary at halfback will look to improve after his first outing. Having finally found their first half attacking flair against the Knights, Bellamy will still be scratching his head as to why is side haven’t been able to string an 80-minute performance together. Sitting in third place and still seen as one of the betting favourites for the title, the Melbourne side are still in a comfortable position in 2020 but they surely can’t only rely on Cameron Munster to spark everything for them.
Verdict
The Panthers will want to avoid consecutive losses, but they will have their work cut out for them. The Storm feel like they are just around the corner from really finding their groove and Penrith might just be on the receiving end of their best display of 2020.
BETOLIMP BEST BETS (in order of preference)
Additional Plays
Broncos/Knights – Half Time / Full Time @ 6.92
Rabbitohs alternative handicap -12.5 @ 2.72
Tryscorers
Knights vs Broncos
Rabbitohs vs Warriors
Panthers vs Storm
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(Note, all odds quoted are subject to change)
Couch Critic
