The stage is set for the ultimate showdown in the 2024 NRL season as the top two teams face off in the championship decider. The reigning champions, the Panthers, are gunning for their fourth consecutive title, while the Storm are determined to put an end to their reign.
The Storm, who dominated the regular season, have found their groove in recent weeks, with their star-studded spine firing on all cylinders. Halfback Jahrome Hughes has been in career-best form, while Cameron Munster and Ryan Papenhuyzen have shaken off their injury woes to wreak havoc on the opposition.
Meanwhile, the Panthers welcomed back Nathan Cleary from injury, and he seamlessly picked up where he left off, forming a formidable partnership with Jarome Luai. The Panthers’ engine room is a well-oiled machine, with each player defensively sound and capable of making significant gains.
The Storm’s forward pack will be without Nelson Asofa-Solomona, but Tui Kamikamica is a more than capable replacement. Their underrated back row has developed into one of the league’s most effective units, and their outside backs are clinical finishers.
This grand final promises to be an epic battle, with both teams boasting State of Origin and international talent. The Storm’s spine is pitted against the Panthers’ equivalent, with Dylan Edwards, Jarome Luai, Nathan Cleary, and Mitch Kenny facing off against Ryan Papenhuyzen, Cameron Munster, Jahrome Hughes, and Harry Grant.
In a game that could be decided by the smallest of margins, it’s difficult to separate the two teams. However, with the Storm’s recent form and the Panthers’ slight concerns over Cleary’s shoulder fitness, I’m tipping the Storm to prevail and end the Panthers’ reign.
Tip: Storm by 4
PointsBet odds: Storm $1.87 (-1.5 $1.95) Panthers $1.95 (+1.5 $1.85)
Leave a Reply