We have Bulldogs vs. Panthers predictions for the Finals Week 2 game on Sunday September 21 at 4:05pm at Accor Stadium.
Injuries have decimated the Bulldogs, which is why four-time NRL champions Penrith are firm favourites to advance to the prelim finals.
Bulldogs vs. Panthers Predictions
—
Best Bet
It’s an unfortunate situation for the Bulldogs, but after losing captain Stephen Crichton last week, we can’t see them measuring up against a rampaging Panthers outfit.
The Panthers’ defence stood up when it had to last week against the Warriors. They travelled to Auckland and came away with a one-sided victory, where Nathan Cleary put on a kicking clinic. It was a great effort, and their experience could be too much for the Bulldogs.
Playing at Accor Stadium won’t do the Panthers’ chances any harm, so it’s hard to find any negatives. Covering a –9.5 line in the finals isn’t easy, but if there is any team capable of doing it, it’s the Panthers.
—
Same Game Multi
It’s unlikely to be a high-scoring game, hence the very low line of 39.5 points. We’re backing the under, as our final score prediction sees the Panthers winning 28-6.
Tries could come from Brian To’o and Paul Alamoti, who have been playing well. It hasn’t been the best year for To’o, but he found a late intercept try against the Warriors last week, which should do his confidence levels a world of good.
Alamoti has been in a scoring mood over the last five weeks, and he could cap off a good backline move to score. With Cleary playing his best footy of the year recently, he’s setting up his outside backs with great try-scoring opportunities.
—
Best Value Bet
Money has come for To’o to score first, and we’re not shocked. He should be ready to play a big game, and it was good to see him score last week off an intercept.
He will be ready to produce the goods against a Bulldogs team that’s a bit thin on the wing, and he could power his way over the line for a try.
$6.50 is on the shorter side, but we’re happy to lock in the odds.
