Friday NRL action begins in Sydney with the Panthers hosting the Cowboys. Both teams currently sit outside the Top 8 on the ladder and would’ve hoped for stronger starts to the year. That has not been the case but they both have a shot at redemption here. The stage is set for an exciting game of rugby league between two desperate teams. Don’t forget to head to our NRL tips page for more previews, analysis and betting tips for every NRL match of every round!
Penrith Panthers vs North Queensland Cowboys
Location: CommBank Stadium
Date: Friday 4th April
Time: 6:00pm (AEDT)
Odds: Panthers $1.22 vs Cowboys $4.25
Line: Panthers -13.5
Points: 50.5
Odds and lines provided with thanks to Ladbrokes. Note that odds and lines can fluctuate throughout the week, and are correct at the time of writing.
Match Preview
The Panthers suffered their 3rd consecutive loss last week, defeated by the Rabbitohs 28-18. In a horrible first half, they conceded 5 tries to leave everyone wondering what they were watching. Down on key personnel, a better effort and performance was still expected from this strong club. While they were improved in the second half, the damage was already done. Their usually rigid defensive structure appears to have abandoned them. You cannot expect to win games with a 69% completion rate, allowing 6 line breaks and missing 34 tackles.
The Cowboys recorded their first win of the season in a spirited performance at home against the Raiders. Despite conceding the first try, they rallied to continually challenge their opponent’s defensive line and turn positive ball control into points. Even with 48% possession, they still completed at 76% while averaging 9.9m per carry and having 9 line breaks. If they produce similar efforts, winning matches won’t be hard to come by.
The return of Cleary is a massive boost for the Panthers. His experience and poise lead to other players lifting. The Panthers are hurting also; they are in a rare position whereby they are losing matches and conceding too many points. Expect a refocused approach ahead of this contest. Despite the home team losing the past two fixtures between these two sides, the Cowboys also have a poor record to contend with; they have just a 29% record with only 6 wins in 21 attempts. Even without the usual crowd which would attend Panthers’ matches, it will still be a tough environment for them to win in.
The form of each team suggests that the Panthers should win by more than 2 converted tries. As bad as the Panthers have been, the Cowboys have been worse defensively (31ppg) and have struggled far more to score points. Last week may be a distant thought at the end of this contest.
Panthers -13.5
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
Same Game Multi
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Leg 1: Total Points Over 50.5 – Despite the average total being 44 points in the past 5 matches between these two sides, their defensive record in 2025 suggests a high-scoring affair.
Leg 2: Laurie to score – he has crossed 3 times this season for the Panthers and will find greater room to move in the middle with Clearly directing his side around the field.
Leg 3: Alamoti to score – the lethal centre has scored 4 times this season to lead the Panthers in this area. They are constantly giving him early ball to create space and trouble defensive lines. The Cowboys edge is in for a hard time stopping him.
SGM Odds: $4.60 at BoomBet
