NRL Super Saturday returns with a full instalment of 3 exciting matches to engage fans. It is a great opportunity for fans to win some money and Before You Bet is here to take a comprehensive look at each match. Action will start at Homebush with the Bulldogs host the Tigers. Both are still struggling for consistency and have displayed positive passages promising plenty more. It will be intriguing to see which team gains ascendency in this game and capture victory.
Also, if you’re new to sports betting or betting on the NRL, check out the following articles to help build your knowledge:
- Guide to Betting on the NRL
- Where to Bet on the NRL
- Factors to Consider When Betting on the NRL
2024 NRL Round 9 Preview & Betting Tips
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs vs Wests Tigers
Accor Stadium – Saturday 4th May – 3pm (AEST)
Match Preview
The Bulldogs enjoyed a week off last week with the Bye, a well-earned rest after their 36-12 win over the Knights in Round 7. That effort was arguably their best of season 2024, controlling all parts of the match; it has been a long time since the Bulldogs have been this team, over 80 minutes, in a match. They overcame a shocking 66% completion rate to make more metres, pcm’s and 7 line breaks. Their defence was also resolute and a sign what they are capable of.
The Tigers are just 2 competition points behind them on the ladder but their effort on the weekend suggests they still have plenty of overall improvement required to be competitive. Last week, they hosted the Broncos and were competitive in the first half. Trailing 16-nil at the break, they failed to match the intensity of their opponents and were eventually defeated 34-10. Equally sharing possession, the Tigers had a superior completion rate (72%) but averaged fewer metres (8.5m per carry) and made just 3 line break. Defensively, they missed more tackles (33) and conceded 6 line breaks. They will want to quickly put that performance behind them and return to their peak, with a great chance of winning this contest.
Match Prediction
The Bulldogs are in unfamiliar territory as they head into this game as favourites ($1.42 vs $2.90). They are relatively unchanged, as are the Tigers, from their previous match. The consistency which both teams have in their line-ups should make for an interesting contest. The Bulldogs appear to be the stronger team on paper and thankfully, they are well supported by statistics. They not only have a superior record at this ground (53% vs 40%), but they also have a better attacking (20ppg vs 15ppg) and defensive (17ppg vs 22ppg) record compared to the Tigers.
There is no doubt that the Tigers have made steps in the right direction this season; this young side has plenty of determination and isn’t afraid of playing ‘freely’ in their system. Things are finally coming together for the Bulldogs and such a performance like the one they produced against the Knights, will increase the confidence in their own ability. Such an approach is responsibility for many victories in this game and this fixture should be no different. Throw in the fact that the home side has won the last 3 meetings between these two sides and the Bulldogs almost select themselves for this contest.
With the average margin of victory sitting at 18.4 points, take on the line (7.5), with the Bulldogs looking to improve upon their points scoring tally this year. It might only be towards the end of this contest that they pull away from the Tigers, but there is every reason to suggest this will be the case.
Bulldogs -7.5
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
Same Game Multi
Burton is the leading try scorer for his club and has a newfound confidence in taking the ball to the line. The Bulldogs have a lethal left edge, and he has been linking well with Crichton, who has crossed twice this season. Watch for both players to be attacking threats for the Bulldogs.
Burton to Score
Crichton to Score
SGM Odds: $9 at Ladbrokes
