Injuries, upsets and dark horses: NRL finals preview

It seems like only yesterday that the 2014 season of the NRL kicked off. Here we are at finals time, and there are only eight teams remaining in the hunt for the game’s ultimate prize.

Rabbitohs versus Sea Eagles
The inclusion of Brett Stewart is massive for Manly and if he plays he could be a significant figure in the Sea Eagles’ chances. However, without hooker Matt Ballin, I still think they lack that defensive grit in the middle, no matter how exciting youngster Jayden Hodges is.

In saying that, Souths’ halves problem worries me, with Adam Reynolds out of form in recent weeks. I expect that Luke Keary will have a blinder, and Souths will book themselves a spot in the penultimate round of the finals.

Souths 16-10

More 2014 NRL Finals:
» The Roar’s Manly vs South Sydney preview
» PRENTICE: Write your own NRL fairytale
» 2014 NRL Finals match information, team lists
» Mastermind’s week one finals preview

Panthers versus Roosters
The Panthers continue to defy the critics in 2014. Coming into this match considerable outsiders will help them a lot, they love playing as underdogs and have done so for most of the year.

The Roosters are in great form and look like the side that went all the way in 2013. However, they must not underestimate Penrith. No matter what the bookies think, the Panthers are great value at $4. The Roosters will be understrength if Aidan Guerra and Dylan Napa are found guilty by the judiciary.

The Panthers will be up for this game, but do they have the class to get home? They certainly have the attitude.

Panthers 24-20

Cowboys versus Broncos
The Broncos face a daunting task heading to North Queensland to play the in-form Cowboys. The home side easily disposed of Manly and could cause problems later in the finals series.

The Broncos and Cowboys both have demanding forward packs and the match up between the opposing halfbacks may just decide this game.

Cowboys 31-12

Storm versus Bulldogs
The Storm are dark horses in the competition seeing the class they possess, however, they will be sweating on the fitness of captain Cameron Smith.

Josh Reynolds will be fired up to try inspire his Dogs side to get back on track in a do or die clash in Melbourne. I knew the Titans would be a danger for a somewhat complacent Bulldogs side, and they may not recover.

Storm 26-12