NRL Round 21 Expert Tips

Photo: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

Round 21 has arrived with the race for the finals heating up, and every result from here on carries extra significance. Several heavyweight clashes headline the weekend, while a handful of teams will be desperate to keep their finals hopes alive after key team changes and injury news were confirmed earlier this week.

Parramatta Eels vs Penrith Panthers
Prediction: Panthers 1-12

Penrith haven't been at their dominant best in recent weeks, but they remain one of the competition's toughest sides to beat when the pressure is on. Parramatta should make this a physical contest, however the Panthers' experience in big moments should see them grind out a close victory.

Newcastle Knights vs Sydney Roosters
Prediction: Roosters 1-12

This shapes as one of the tighter games of the round. Newcastle are always difficult to beat at home, but the Roosters possess more attacking class across the park. Expect a physical battle with the Tricolours edging home late. This game should a good one, either team could get the 2 points.

South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Melbourne Storm
Prediction: Rabbitohs 1-12

Despite South Sydney dealing with several injury concerns, they've been outstanding at Accor Stadium this season and have already shown they can trouble Melbourne even without key players. The Storm are also without Cameron Munster and Will Warbrick. Expect another gritty performance as the Rabbitohs sneak home.

Canberra Raiders vs Wests Tigers
Prediction: Raiders 13+

Canberra should simply have too much class with this lineup again. Their forward pack should dominate, while the Tigers continue to battle inconsistency with a run of poor performances. If the Raiders control possession early, this could get away from the visitors quite quickly.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs vs New Zealand Warriors
Prediction: Warriors 1-12

The match of the round could easily go either way. The Bulldogs have been one of the competition's biggest improvers, but the Warriors' defence and composure in close games gives them the slight edge in what should be a thriller. The Dogs have their best forward pack back, so this is a huge opportunity for them to win.

North Queensland Cowboys vs Brisbane Broncos
Prediction: Cowboys 1-12

A Queensland derby rarely disappoints. The Cowboys have been strong at home this season and should be able to withstand a determined Broncos outfit of the back of their shock win over the Panthers. Expect plenty of momentum swings before North Queensland claim a narrow win. With Brisbane getting their first win since April it's hard to back them.

St George Illawarra Dragons vs Gold Coast Titans
Prediction: Titans 1-12

What a stinky game this is. The Titans are capable of producing their best football against quality opposition and look well placed to edge out the Dragons as most teams do. If they can limit errors and capitalise on attacking opportunities, Gold Coast can leave Sydney with an important two competition points.

Manly Sea Eagles vs Cronulla Sharks
Prediction: Sharks 13+

Cronulla look primed to make a statement and have showed their class in recent weeks. With Manly battling injuries and inconsistency, the Sharks have an opportunity to flex their premiership credentials. Expect Cronulla's forward pack to lay the platform before their backs finish the job in a convincing victory.