sidelined

You can smell the finals in the air. 5 rounds to go and some very intriguing games. Mathematically, 13 clubs are still in the race. Realistically, I’d say 10 clubs have a chance. But you never know. 4-5 wins on the trot will change a loss. 4-5 losses will do the same. I’ve consulted the I Ching and the results are over the fold.

Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles v Melbourne Storm, Friday 7:35pm Brookvale Oval

I’m really looking forward to this game. Apart from the odd glitch, both Manly and the Storm have played at a level above the other sides in the competition. Usually I’d tip Manly at home but the past history is that the Storm have the wood on the Sea Eagles. Combine that with Watmough, Lyon and Kite out for the home team, I’ll stay with the Storm. But still reckon it could go either way. A shame that this game is not going live in Melbourne.

St George/Illawarra Dragons v West Tigers, Friday 7:35pm WIN Stadium

The Tigers will have some confidence after smashing the Bulldogs but the Dragons will be a good indication of the Tigers’ ability to challenge for the eight. Gasnier returnrs but the Dragons are missing two of their best forwards which will hurt them. A really hard game to pick. I’ll need to make a move in the tipping comps so Tigers to win.

New Zealand Warriors v Brisbane Bronocs, Saturday 5:30pm Mt Smart Stadium

Some sure hands would have got the Warriors home last week. The loss sees them fighting hard to remain in contention for the eight. The Broncos on the other hand are aiming for a top four finish. Hodges is a loss to Broncos but they seem well placed again for the run home. The visitors to put a dent in the Warriors finals changes.

Cronulla Sharks v South Sydney Rabbitohs, Saturday 7:30pm Toyota Park

The Sharks play a style of league that is almost like trench warfare. Not much ground is given and any victories are by slim margins. Yet, they are in the top four and in the finals for 2008. The Bunnies are starting to salvage something from the season with some spirited wins to give their fans hope. The combination of Sandow and Wing is a good one for the Bunnies but that won’t be enough for them to win over the Sharks. The grinding style of the home team will get them over the line.

Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs v North Queensland Cowboys, Saturday 7:30pm ANZ Stadium

While one game gives a preview of the grand final, this game will all but decide the wooden spoon. Not really much form to go on for either team but the Cowboys have been competing over their last few outings. The Bulldogs will have to perform an almost miracle to be in this game. The long, dark nightmare of 2008 will end for the Cowboys.

Canberra Raiders v Penrith Panthers, Sunday 2:00pm Canberra Stadium

Another game that has a bearing on the eight. The Panthers welcome Pritchard back and strengthen their pack. The Raiders have farewelled Carney and that may settle their side. Spring is just around the corner but you won’t know it down Canberra way. It will be an expansive game but bloody cold and that is how the Raiders like it.

Sydney Roosters v Parramatta Eels, Sunday 3:00pm Sydney Football Stadium

Not much to say really. The Eels have no spirit, no will to win. I’ll watch the game for some peverse reason but the Roosters by a mile.

Titans v Knights, Monday 7:00pm Skilled Park

The Titans have really fallen off the pace after losing the core of their team through injuries. They are hanging on the fringes of the eight and in a real danger of missing the finals. The Knights on the other hand are doing well. They have been competitive most games this year and if they make the finals, capable of causing an upset. They will be too strong for the Titans and grab a valuable two points.

Shaun’s Sure Thing: Tempted to say the Cowboys but the Roosters or the Knights

The Roughy: Tempted by the Bunnies but will summon the dregs of hope an have a tenner of the Eels.

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