sidelined

The ANZAC long weekend is upon us. Which means the first rep game, the Centenary Test is not that far away. Hence the bye returns this round for four teams. But with the comp becoming tight, even a reduced number of games does not take away the intrigue of who will win.

Onto the tips.

St George Illawarra Dragons v Sydney Roosters, Friday 3:15pm ANZ Stadium

The traditional ANZAC day clash pits has both teams at opposite ends of the table after round 6. You’d not be considered odd if you thought this game would be a safe bet for the Roosters. But I have one of the feelings. Which generally means tip opposite to me. I reckon the Dragons can pull off an upset this game. No rational reason why, just what I reckon. About 5:00pm tomorrow you can either hail my intuitive genius or pay out on me in the comments.

Brisbane Broncos v South Sydney, Friday 7:30pm Suncorp Stadium

I also have a feeling about this game. The Bunnies are going to get smashed. I can’t see them pulling off an upset here. The Broncos easily.

Manly Sea Eagles v Canterbury Bulldogs, Saturday 5:30pm Brookvale Oval

The money sez Manly but the ole tipping intuition suggests another upset of sorts. Manly played with courage to get over the Eels but it would have taken a lot out of them. The Bulldogs have struggled against the top teams but the Sonny Bill factor can’t be ignored. Manly have a few injuries and if the Bulldogs can match ‘em then they will win.

North Queensland Cowboys v Melbourne Storm, Saturday 7:30pm Dairy Farmers Stadium

The magnificent form of Billy Slater has been getting the Storm home. He was the difference in Canberra last week and surely has played himself into an Australian jumper. But the Cowboys have found their feet and are tougher up in the heat. The Storm are not invincible this year. Bowen is yet to fire and this could be his night. The Cowboys in a free flowing game.

Gold Coast Titans v New Zealand Warriors, Sunday 2:00pm Skilled Park

Oh, how the Warriors wish they carry their home turf around with them. It would be almost like supporting two different teams with their lack of away form but domination at home. The Gold Coast are running out ahead at the moment and are making Skilled Park a feared destination. The Titans will see their great home record continue.

Cronulla Sharks v West Tigers, Monday 7:00pm Toyota park

The Sharks limitations in attack cost them against Penrith. The good news is they welcome back a hopefully reformed Paul Gallen. The bad news is the camp may be a little unsettled with the news that Kimmorely may be a mid-season swap to the Dragons. The Tigers did well to come back against South Sydney and have some flair in attack. That will trouble the Sharks and they are starting to learn that grind alone isn’t enough.

Shaun’s Sure Thing: The Broncos

The Roughy: I’m going for St George. A big call I know. But I’m due for a win here. The Bulldogs are also worth a punt.