The 2024 finals series kicks off with the three-time defending premiers the Panthers hosting the injury-ravaged Roosters as Penrith chase down a historic fourth straight title.
Best Bet
Penrith have shown an ability to just flick the switch when it comes to finals football in recent years and with Nathan Cleary returning, betting they can do it again.
Cleary’s return is as positive for the Panthers as Sam Walker’s absence is a negative for the Roosters. Sandon Smith is a serviceable replacement but he lacks the long kicking game of Walker.
The Roosters have struggled against the elite teams with just three covers in 16 against the Storm and Panthers the last four seasons.
Penrith have won nine straight against the Chooks, covering six of seven. They have topped 20 in each of those nine.
The Panthers are 19-11 ATS v Top 4 teams and 16-7 ATS off scoring 18 or fewer.
The Chooks have covered just six of 19 off a win.
Chips in the Panthers minus here.
Insights
🚀 Sydney Roosters Away: Sydney Roosters games have gone over the total in 8 of their last 10 away games. 🌧️
🔥 Sydney Roosters Off Loss: After a loss, Sydney Roosters have covered the spread in 7 of their last 9 games. 💪
🏟️ Sydney Roosters at ANZ Stadium: Sydney Roosters have struggled at ANZ Stadium, with only 3 wins in their last 9 games. ⚔️
Same Game Multi
Brian To’o loves playing the Roosters with five wins in his last six clashes with the Chooks.
Paul Alamoti has five tries in 13 games this season since joining the Panthers.
Value Bet
Nathan Cleary is a finals specialist who is huge odds to score against the Roosters. He has scored four tries in his last five finals games and has nine four-pointers in his 13 finals games since 2020. Cleary is the best tryscorer play all week.
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