NRL Preview: Eels v Rabbitohs

NRL PreviewParramatta Eels v South Sydney Rabbitohs
Friday, September 1, 7:50pm (AEST) at ANZ Stadium, Sydney

The Eels made a strong statement against the Broncos last week, piling on 52 points in their 18-point win. The concerning part for Eels coach Brad Arthur, was the 34 points that they conceded and he stated that defence like that won’t stack up in the finals. Speaking of swiss cheese defence, the Rabbitohs conceded 64 points against the Melbourne Storm last week, and if they suffer another big loss like that, coach Michael Maguire can expect a phone call from Russell Crowe. The Eels can’t afford to slip up here as the Sharks can leapfrog them into the Top 4 if they win their match against the Knights. The Eels could also have some handy inclusions, with Kaysa Pritchard, Beau Scott and Manu Ma’u all set to be named. Meanwhile, the Rabbitohs will be without the suspended Zane Musgrove, while both Adam Reynolds and Kyle Turner will be monitored for concussion.

HistoryThe Eels have won the last two against the Rabbitohs, including a 22-16 victory back in Round 12. Joint leading try-scorer Alex Johnston scored a double on a losing side. Seven of the last eight clashes have topped 38 points.

FormParramatta are fourth on the ladder with a 15-8 record and will lock down a Top 4 spot with a win. They have been flying with eight wins in their last nine clashes. They enter this off  a 52-34 road demolition of the Broncos. South Sydney are out of the running and enter this class of a humiliating 64-6 road loss to Melbourne, one of the club’s biggest ever defeats. Prior to that they had won three straight. They are out of finals contention with just nine wins.

Stats That Matter– Parramatta are 13-10 ATS with a 16-7 under record while Souths are 12-11 ATS with a 13-10 under number.

– The Eels have won the last two against the Rabbitohs.

– Seven of the last eight have topped 38 points.

– Souths are 2-6 ATS as a double digit outsider.

Final ThoughtsThe Wolf is always wary of a side coming off a 64-6 loss, but Brad Arthur made it very clear he wasn’t happy with the 34 points conceded last week. The Eels are going much better than the Rabbitohs and have too much on the line if they drop this one. Eels to cover, and the overs.

How It’s Shaping UpParramatta by 18

Best Bet
Parramatta -13.5 ($1.91)

Other Recommended Bets
Over 42.5 ($1.88)