A fit and healthy Penrith Panthers team loom as the dark horses for the NRL title according to In the Clear NRL podcast co-host Chris Boulous.
“You at look at St George, Sharks, Melbourne, Souths –they all have injury concerns. Throw in the suspensions at the Roosters and that leaves Penrith,” Boulous said.
“I think whoever can field the healthiest 17 at this time of the year usually wins games and at this stage that team is Penrith. But that can change in a week.”
Fellow co-host Matt Lawrence said he expects his Rabbitohs to advance to set up a blockbuster week three clash with the Roosters.
“And whoever wins that game will win the competition,” he said.
“I look at the other side of the draw and Melbourne are the standout.”
Boulous said the halves will play a big part in who lifts the trophy in 2018.
“There is big pressure on the likes of Ben Hunt, Matt Moylan and Brodie Croft, because the other three teams have established combinations,” he said.
NRL Finals Week two tips
Boulous: Rabbitohs, Panthers.
Lawrence: Rabbitohs, Sharks.
- Listen online: anchor.fm/in-the-clear-nrl-podcast and on iTunes.
