With the regular season concluded and the Giltinan Shield gifted, the seeds are in and the eight is set.
It’s finals time!
As the routes home for each of the premiership contenders have been set, we’ve dusted off our crystal ball with the aim of directing you through the next month of football.
From the first round to the big one, here’s how we see October playing out.
2.
Week Two
Semi Final 1 – Sydney Roosters v Canberra Raiders
The replay of last year’s Grand Final is sure to have turnstiles whirring and have chins wagging in the lead up to kickoff.
Despite both teams entering this clash with opposing fortunes from the week prior, expect them to be reversed by the end of eighty minutes.
These Trent Robinson Chooks don’t lose three in a row, especially when the chance of three consecutive Provan-Summons trophies are on offer.
Any team containing names like Tedesco, Keary, Waerea-Hargreaves, Cordner and co is far too good to be bundled out in straight sets.
The Roosters at home should produce an effort that will not only eliminate their Canberra based competition, but also put the remaining teams on notice.
Prediction: Sydney
Semi Final 2 – Parramatta Eels v South Sydney Rabbitohs
Bankwest will be abuzz for this clash.
Two well supported Sydney teams with two star-studded line ups, However, only one can advance.
Despite what will no doubt be a majority pro-Parra crowd, the weight of expectation may prove to be too much for an Eels team weighed down by 34 years of heartache.
You can however bet your bottom dollar that the result will be a lot closer than the round 16 margin of 38 points.
You can also double down that there will be some electric backline plays from both corners of the ring.
The Eels opportunity to turn the tables will come if the Bunnies ball carrying woes resurface at the business end of the season.
Despite our prediction of a straight sets finals departure, it must be noted that the Eels are sure to be back in contention next season. So you can take solace there, Parra fans.
Prediction: South Sydney
