The NRL finals are starting a week early, with the Wests Tigers and Cronulla Sharks playing a virtual elimination final at Leichhardt Oval this Sunday.
The equation is simple for both teams; win and you’re in, lose and it’s all over red rover for 2019.
Well, there is the bizarre scenario involving a Broncos loss to the Bulldogs meaning a mutual draw would see both teams play finals – but let’s not get into that.
It’s going to be a heartbreaking farewell for either Paul Gallen or Robbie Farah, while the other will see their career live on for at least another week.
We got Roar rugby league expert Mary Konstatopoulos on the Game of Codes podcast to preview the all-important Round 25 clash and make a call on who takes the points.
Listen to the debate:
How do the Tigers quell what looks to be a vastly superior forward pack for Cronulla?
Can either side find a cure to their goalkicking woes in time? How much of a factor is Leichhardt Oval?
Do you agree with our experts’ predictions? Let us know in the comments below.
Visit our Game of Codes hub to catch the full episode and be sure to subscribe and review on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or wherever else you’re listening.
R J
Guest
Broncos lose to Dogs, then Sharks and Tigers play for the first nil all draw in the modern game?
Kurt S
Roar Pro
This game really has me stumped. Whether or not I take out my local footy tipping might well come down to this match. I'm leaning toward Tigers because of Benji's form and McGuire in charge. I think the emotion of Gallen and Farah cancel each other out and Tigers are at home. Sharks have conceded 101 points in the last 6 games. Tigers 78. But in that 78 was only 4 points put on them by Newcastle when Newcastles had spat their dummies over their coach. Last time the Kgight and Tigers played Knights put on 26 points. So there is not much between Sharks and Tigers - they both leak a few tries a game. Sharks have a few more big game players with experience but I'm not sure how well they are traveling. Morris, Graham, Gallen. If Johnston turns up, who knows what can happen. Tigers are more of a team that you know about what you get. Can anyone add to this? I've got the Tigers chosen right now, but I can change up to kick off.
Flexis
Roar Rookie
Ha! Well played
Dogs Boddy
Roar Rookie
Last weekend the Sharks faithful bid farewell to Paul Gallen by applauding at the 13th minute, representing the jersey he has worn for his entire career. This weekend the Tigers, in a very similar show of support to a much loved veteran player, are going to farewell Robbie Farrah by finishing 9th.
Peter Piper
Guest
I have a lot of respect and admiration for Robbie Farah and I would love to see him go out on a much deserved high. So whilst I don't really care which team goes onto the finals, I am hoping for a Tigers win, if only to give Robbie his time in the sun.
Dogs Boddy
Roar Rookie
Sharrrrrrrrrrrks. Striking from beneath like a bloody grey / white chainsaw of death. Unless we are on land in which case I think a Tiger just might have the edge so long as it stays away from the pointy end. Hopefully it's a tight contest, even more hopefully we come out on top. Looking forward to Sunday and may the best aquatic themed team win :)
DP Schaefer
Roar Rookie
Who wins? Broncos. If Broncos lose to Dogs whoever wins saves them.