NRL Preview: Tigers v Eels

NRL Preview
Wests Tigers v Parramatta Eels
Sunday, July 23, 4pm (AEST) at ANZ Stadium, Sydney

All eyes will be on Eels halfback Mitchell Moses as he returns to take on his former club after requesting a mid-season move from Wests to Parramatta. The Eels are only one win outside of the Top 4 and have a relatively soft run home other than two upcoming clashes against the Broncos. Meanwhile, the Tigers were gallant in defeat against the Sea Eagles last week after they were reduced to a two-man bench through injury.

History
The Eels have won three of the last four against the Tigers including a 26-22 victory in Round 7 earlier this year.

Form
The Wests Tigers are second last with a 4-13 record. Their only win in their last nine matches was a victory over last-placed Newcastle. The Tigers have conceded at least 22 in seven of their last nine. They have scored more than 18 in just two of their last 10. Parramatta have been flying with five wins in their last six. The Eels have conceded a total of just 28 points in their last three games. Parramatta are 6-2 at ANZ this season.

Key Matchup
Luke Brooks v Mitchell Moses: Many fans in Tiger Town expected these great mates to play out their careers together at the Tigers, but things can change very quickly in the NRL. Brooks is the chief organiser now at the Tigers and is still getting accustomed to this role. It’s evident that he is taking on the defensive line more, but needs to find better options when in the opposition 20 especially with his short kicking game. Moses has finally found his feet at the Eels and produced his best game for the club in the Eels’ win over the Storm in Round 18. He scored a try and set up two others in a commanding performance. Will the situation get the better of him on Sunday? The Wolf has no doubt that he’ll be a marked man by the Tigers forwards.

Stats That Matter
– Wests Tigers are 8-9 ATS with an 11-6 under record while Parramatta are 9-8 ATS with a 12-5 under record.

– Parramatta have won three of the last four against the Wests Tigers.

– The Tigers have covered 7 of their last 10 at ANZ while the Eels have covered 9 of their last 12 at the ground.

– Parramatta are 15-5 under at ANZ since 2014.

– In day games the Tigers are 9-3 under at ANZ while the Eels are 5-1 under.

Final Thoughts
The Wolf is expecting the Eels to make it six wins in their last seven matches and should have too much class for the Tigers. The Eels have conceded a total of just 28 points in their last three games and should be able to limit the Tigers attack if they pressure Luke Brooks and James Tedesco. Unders and Eels to cover are The Wolf’s best plays here.

How It’s Shaping Up
Parramatta by 12

Best Bet
Under 43.5 ($1.88)

Other Recommended Bets
Parramatta -9.5 ($1.91)