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Preston's previews: NRL Round 26

31st August, 2016
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Should the NRL amend its points system to reward effort instead of just results? (AAP Image/Dean Lewins)
Roar Guru
31st August, 2016
1
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The final round of the regular season is upon us and it’s a good time to be a footy fan.

There are some huge clashes this weekend. Melbourne and Cronulla will battle it out for the minor premiership with Canberra and the Cowboys hoping to secure a home finals fixture, and the Tigers looking to force their way into the top eight

Last week’s tips – 5/8, 124/184 for the year.

Broncos vs Roosters

This one shapes as a surprise blockbuster.

The Broncos have returned to form while the Roosters have finally found cohesion as the season draws to a close.

A win for Brisbane will temporarily place them inside the top four, with their final placing dependent on the Cowboys result on Saturday.

The boys from Bondi have been firing lately winning three of their last five. Latrell Mitchell’s name is sure to be discussed for Dally M Rookie of the Year honours and Connor Watson looks set for a big future. They will, however, be without both Boyd Cordner and Sio Siua Taukeiaho.

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Tip: Broncos 1-12

Dogs vs Souths

Canterbury has endured back-to-back losses following three wins on the trot.

Conversely, Souths have registered three wins in a row over the Sharks, Warriors, and Knights.

The Bulldogs have far too much to play for in this game, however, they need to get back on track quickly and the best way to do that is to dominate their opposition through their enormous forward pack.

Tip: Dogs-12

Dragons vs Knights

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Although the Knights have recorded just a solitary victory in 2016, Dragons fans should be genuinely nervous about this match.

Newcastle has shown a reasonable amount of improvement in the second half of 2016 while St George Illawarra has gone backwards.

With that said, I am predicting a drastic improvement in the Dragons form over the past few weeks and much of that will revolve around Benji Marshall who will be playing with raw emotion in what is likely his final game in the NRL.

Tip: Dragons 13+

Cowboys vs Titans

North Queensland have returned to form with back-to-back victories over the Warriors and Bulldogs. They are hitting their straps at the right time of year, leaving them well placed to defend their title.

With a top-four position on the line and a resulting second chance at finals football, this game is incredibly important for the team from Townsville.

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A victory is also incredibly important to the Titans, though. A win will guarantee finals football while a loss leaves their finals berth to fate.

Jarryd Hayne’s inclusion has not had the desired result so far. Clunky is perhaps the aptest description of his input so far. He has done some excellent things as an individual but as a secondary ball player, he has struggled to meld with team cohesion.

Tip: Cowboys 1-12

Storm vs Sharks

Not just the match of the round – but the match of the season.

The winner will officially be crowned 2016’s minor premiers.

The Storm is already guaranteed a home semi so a loss won’t affect them quite as much as the Sharks – who could be forced to travel to Canberra in week one of the finals series if they lose this one.

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Melbourne is eight from ten at AAMI Park in 2016 and they will be looking to add another corpse to their graveyard to close the regular season.

Tip: Storm 1-12

Wests Tigers vs Raiders

This is what players live for. A packed Leichhardt Oval with an unlikely finals berth on the line.

If the Tigers can somehow defeat the Raiders in this clash it will be a miracle given Canberra’s hot streak.

Ricky Stuart’s love of mind games has continued. It was believed he would rest several players for this clash but instead, he has named the Harlem Globetrotters in footy form.

This one should be action packed, but, a bridge too far for the Tigers faithful.

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Tip: Raiders 1-12

Warriors vs Eels

By all accounts, the Warriors should win this match.

A quality side playing on home turf against a side that has endured more drama then a season of Keeping Up with the Kardashians should be a shoe-in.

And yet, I can see the courage of the Eels 17 finishing 2016 on a high note.

The Eels were brilliant against the Dragons on Monday night and Bevan French has blossomed into one of the most damaging attacking players in the game.

This match will come down to one key thing – attitude.

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Tip: Eels 1-12

Panthers vs Manly

The final game of 2016 pits the Panthers against the Sea Eagles.

Penrith is shaping as a premiership dark horse on the back of their fourth straight victory. Matt Moylan is in devastating form and the club is playing with no fear.

Manly only the other hand, have nothing to play for – including fear.

Tip: Panthers 13+

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