3 minute read
Penrith Panthers and Melbourne Storm go head-to-head on Thursday night, in a clash that could go a long way to deciding the minor premiership.
The Storm are currently top of the NRL ladder with a two-point lead over the Panthers and are priced at 2.20 to win the J.J. Giltinan Shield.
However, the Panthers could go top with a win on Thursday night and 1.60 to be the regular season winners.
Not only is the minor premiership up for grabs, the clash could also give an indication as to who is more likely to go on and win the grand final.
As things stand, the Panthers are the hot fancies at 2.60 to go on and win the grand final, while Melbourne Storm can be backed at 4.00.
There is a lot riding on the game and there is sure to be fireworks in front of a packed house in Penrith.
. What: Penrith Panthers v Melbourne Storm
. Where: Panthers Stadium, Penrith
. When: 19:50 (AEST), Thursday 15th August
. How to watch: Kayo, Foxtel, Channel 9
. Odds: Penrith Panthers 1.52, Melbourne Storm 2.55
Panthers hope for Edwards boost
Penrith did what Penrith do, showing their never-say-die spirit when beating Parramatta Eels on Friday night.
The Panthers scored the last three tries of the game to snatch a two-point win, which kept them in touch with the Storm.
They will take great confidence from that win, and back on home soil, will fancy their chances against Craig Bellamy's side.
Penrith have won five of the last seven meeting against the Storm and can be backed at 2.65 to win by 13+ points on Thursday night.
They could also be boosted by the return of gun fullback Dylan Edwards, who has made good progress from a knee injury and could figure.
However they will be without Liam Martin, who is suspended, while Scott Sorensen is also a doubt with a hamstring injury.
Even so Ivan Cleary has enough talent in his side to get the job done, including son Nathan, who has scored 64 points in his last four games.
Storm target Panthers double
The two sides met back in Round 1 this season and it was the Storm that came out on top on that occasion.
They put on a defensive masterclass to win 8-0, and the same could be needed if they are to complete the double.
The Storm can be backed at 3.75 to win the game by 1-12 points.
Travelling away from home will not be an issue as they have won seven of the last eight games on the road.
However a trip to Penrith will represent their toughest challenge yet.
The Storm won the minor premiership in 2019 and 2021, and a victory here would take them a step closer to another.
Will Warbrick grabbed a couple of tries in the win over the Rabbitohs at the weekend and will be a huge threat on the wing once again.