The Roar's NRL expert tips and predictions: Round 9

Before we get to NRL tipping this week, can we talk about Parramatta Eels flyer Semi Radradra making headlines this week, being selected in Mal Meninga’s Australian side to face the Kiwis on May 6th at Hunter Stadium.

His decision to switch allegiances from the Bati to the boxing kangaroo has split opinions in rugby league land. No doubt Semi has every right to do so but many believe the rules need to be altered and make it far more financially viable for other nations to compete with the likes of Australia.

But Semi has bigger worries now that he’s ditched the kava for a slab of twist tops.

You might call cigarettes ‘tavako’ over in Suva, Mr. Radradra, but here we call ‘em durries – stay clear of White Ox.

The sulu might have to go too. Shorts, thongs and a singlet is a necessary requirement (unless you sign with the Sydney Roosters which is a completely different kettle of fish).

And you’ll have to drop the traditional Meke dance if you’re going to pump Cold Chisel and AC/DC in the backyard on a Sunday night. Sitting/standing around a bomb fire is sufficient enough.

At the end of the day there’s a Test match to be played – no pressure, really.

Score a hat-trick and you’ll be as Aussie as meat pies and Dennis Lillee.

Have a shocker and you’ll never be seen again.

Welcome to ‘Straya, mate!

Here’s your NRL expert tips for this week.

EVERY NRL GAME THIS SEASON WILL BE LIVE ON FOXTEL

Lachlan Bickley
Tips: Rabbitohs, Eels, Raiders, Roosters (Powerplay), Cowboys, Warriors, Storm, Sharks.

“There’s no shame in the Eels losing to the Premiers in Townsville, and they were impressive in defeat. The Bulldogs, meanwhile, still seem vaguely confused about who they are and what they’re trying to do. I’ll take the Eels at home.

“A fun night for Raiders fans on Saturday but consistency remains the key. Meanwhile, the Panthers lost another heart breaker and a talented young half at the same time. Raiders to carry on where they left off.

“The Storm did it easy on Anzac Day and should continue in that vein against the Titans who continue to front up every week but are likely to be outclassed in this one.”

Mary Konstantopoulos
Tips: Wests Tigers, Eels, Panthers, Roosters (Powerplay), Cowboys, Dragons, Titans, Broncos.

“Will I live to regret tipping the Tigers? Probably. The Tigers were royally embarrassed by the Raiders last weekend, having 60 points scored against them. If they can’t pick themselves up after that for a big game against a struggling Rabbitohs side, it will be a long time before I tip them again.

“The losses of Tom Trbjvic and Brett Stewart will really hurt the Sea Eagles. The Cowboys to run riot over the Sea Eagles at Brookvale.

“The Roosters will be boosted by the return of Mitchell Pearce and JWH this weekend. If they can’t beat a struggling Knights side this weekend, I won’t be tipping them again either.

Tim Gore
Tips: Rabbitohs, Eels, Raiders, Roosters (Powerplay), Cowboys, Warriors, Titans, Sharks.

“Souths to edge out a desperate Tigers side and Eels to just beat the undisciplined Dogs in the opening matches of the weekend.

“I think the Warriors will respond to last week’s flogging by beating the Dragons.

“The Sharks to strangle the Broncos, who are having to play on a Sunday.”

Curtis Woodward
Tips: Rabbitohs, Eels, Raiders, Roosters (Powerplay), Cowboys, Dragons, Titans, Sharks.

“Match of the round is undoubtedly on Sunday at Southern Cross Group Stadium between Cronulla and Brisbane. This is a grand final preview in my humble opinion and I reckon the Sharks can grab the points in this one.

“Gold Coast at home to the Melbourne Storm should be very interesting. The question is – can the Storm be as good as they were last weekend?

“Never tipping the Warriors again. Go the Dragons!”

Catch Curtis and The81stMinute Commentary Team this Saturday from 2pm on steelesports.com.au

Get involved in beating the experts – tip here!