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North Queensland Cowboys v South Sydney Rabbitohs

Friday, March 31, 8:05pm (AEDT), 1300 Smiles Stadium, Townsville



All eyes will be on the status of Cyclone Debbie as the Cowboys do their best to prepare for the clash against the Rabbitohs. There are no plans to change the fixture at this stage, but it’s worth keeping an eye on. The Cowboys will be boosted by the return of Jason Taumalolo from suspension, while the Rabbitohs will be looking to bounce back after their disappointing 20-6 loss to the Roosters last week. It’s worth noting that the Rabbitohs did lose Sam Burgess at half-time, after he failed his HIA test for a head knock.
History
The Cowboys have won 6 of their last 7 against the Rabbitohs and won both clashes in 2016. They smashed the Rabbitohs 44-18 at 1300 Smiles Stadium in Round 7, with Justin O’Neill scoring a double, then followed it up with a 20-0 shut out at Barlow
Form
North Queensland have mixed their form over the first four rounds though a 3-1 record with a host of injuries suggest they are well on track. They bounced back well from their loss to Manly with a 34-28 win over the Titans on the Gold Coast. Souths have a 2-2 record but their wins over Manly and Newcastle look fairly light when mixed with hammerings at the hands of rivals Wests Tigers and the Sydney Roosters. Souths managed just six points against the Roosters and have conceded at least 18 in every match.
Key Matchup
Johnathan Thurston v Adam Reynolds. The Cowboys needed to respond after their shock loss to the Sea Eagles in Townsville and JT was instrumental in the win over the Titans. Thurston scored a try, kicked six goals and had two try-assists in a strong performance. Thurston is the benchmark for all halves in the NRL and it’s something Reynolds can aspire too. Reynolds has made a steady start to the season, but needs to be doing more, with halves partner Cody Walker outshining him. The Wolf is expecting a big effort from Reynolds, especially in the knowledge that the NSW selectors will be watching.
Stats That Matter
North Queensland are 2-2 ATS with a 2-2 total record while Souths are also 2-2 ATS with a 2-2 total number. The Cowboys have won 6 of their last 7 against the Rabbitohs with four of those wins by 18-plus. Double digit favourites in the first eight rounds of the season who conceded 24 or more points are 6-9 ATS. Outsiders of 8 or more who scored single digits in the first eight rounds of the year are 15-4 ATS. Souths have covered their last two getting a start of 8 or more and have covered 6 of their last 8 interstate.
Final Thoughts
The Wolf is confident that the Cowboys will get the victory, but the focus is on the 10.5 line. The Cowboys will struggle to have a proper training session throughout the week due to Cyclone Debbie, while the Rabbitohs will have a solid week in Sydney before heading up to Townsville. The Rabbitohs have covered 6 of their last 8 interstate and will be up for this clash. The 10.5 line will be too big for the hot-and-cold Cowboys to cover.
How It’s Shaping Up
North Queensland by 6
Best Bet
South Sydney +10.5 ($1.90)

Other Recommended Bets
Under 42.5 ($1.88)

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