NRL Round 25 action gets underway this week at the traditional home of the Tigers as they host the Sea Eagles on Thursday night. Both teams have vastly different motivating factors ahead of this contest but will want a victory just as much. It makes for a tricky, yet exciting contest. Before You Bet is here to take a detailed look at the action ahead and make your decision of finding a winner, a little easier.
NRL Round 25 Preview & Betting Tips
Wests Tigers vs Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles
Leichhardt Oval – Thursday 22nd August – 7:50pm (AEST)
Match Preview
The Tigers moved one step closer to avoiding the Wooden Spoon with a spirited 18-16 victory over the Rabbitohs. Starting strongly, the Tigers jumped to a 16-4 HT lead and were playing with discipline on both sides of the ball. Absorbing a second half fightback, the Tigers finally had some luck fall their way. Despite having a lesser share of possession (48%), they completed at 87% and trailed in just about every area; they had 9.3m per carry, made 683 PCM’s and created just 3 line breaks. They also missed 56 tackles but somehow, found a way to win the match.
The Sea Eagles were strong in their 24-10 victory over the Warriors. In a tight first half, they went to the break locked at 10-all. Kicking into another gear in the second half, the Sea Eagles demonstrated their superiority and produced some impressive passages of play. They controlled the attack with 53% possession and an 80% completion rate. This was supported by averaging 9.3m per carry, 535 PCM’s and 7 line breaks. They must improve on the 32 missed tackles; teams higher than them on the competition ladder will make them pay for such mistakes.
Match Prediction
The Tigers have been dealt several blows ahead of this game with Doueihi and Laulilii out, joining Bula on the sideline. While Talau is also missing for the Sea Eagles, it barely compares to the playing missing for the Tigers. This is why the odds heavily favour the visitors ($4.80 vs $1.18); the record of the visitors (25% - 3 wins from 12 matches) hasn’t rated a mention (Tigers – 55%).
The Sea Eagles are in the Top 8 for a reason and while not completely perfect, they have displayed a higher level of consistency this season compared to the Tigers. They average considerably more points in attack (18ppg vs 26ppg) and have a superior defensive record (30ppg vs 20ppg).
The Tigers have improved in recent weeks but the test against the Sea Eagles should be another step up from what they have previously faced. The line (14.5) has been set to entice punters; on face value, the Sea Eagles should be too strong over 80 minutes. With enough momentum generated in the middle stages, they should be able to get home comfortably. Expect Brooks to want to drive the nail into the coffin in this game also.
Sea Eagles -14.5
$1.95 (2 Units)
Same Game Multi
The margin option goes into this bet to add value. With Talau absent, Trbojevic (13 – 2nd) and Saab (10 – 3rd) are the next top try scorers for the Sea Eagles. Olakau’atu is always an attacking threat on the edge and will relish the opportunity to add to his try scoring total this season.
Sea Eagles 13+
Trbojevic, Saab & Olakau’atu to Score
SGM Odds: $7.50 at Ladbrokes (0.5 Units)
