From here on out, it's officially do-or-die in the NRL finals.
We have two semi-finals to look forward to this weekend, with a pair of spots in the preliminary finals up for grabs.
Both of last week's qualifying final losers will look to turn their fortunes around, while their opponents will aim to build on their wins in their respective elimination finals.
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Below are The Sporting News’ betting predictions and best bets for Finals Week 2. All odds via TAB.
Cronulla Sharks vs. North Queensland Cowboys prediction, tip, best bet
Cronulla enter this clash as favourites but picking a winner here feels like a bit of a coin toss.
Both teams have already faced off twice this year, with each side winning their home fixture.
The Sharks do have the 'home-ground advantage' on this occasion but will be playing at the larger-capacity Allianz Stadium rather than their preferred Shark Park.
Craig Fitzgibbon's side will also need to bounce back from a disappointing defeat to the Storm last week, where they faded significantly in the second half.
The Cowboys, on the other hand, have some momentum on their side, having beaten the Knights in a hard-fought elimination final in Townsville.
It's also worth noting North Queensland finished just two points behind Cronulla on the ladder, putting together a strong back-half campaign. We think they can edge this one out.
As far as try-scorers go, keep an eye on two red-hot wingers. Ronaldo Mulitalo has scored 10 tries in 11 games against the Cowboys, while North Queensland veteran Kyle Feldt has scored 12 tries in his past seven games.
Prediction: Cowboys by 2
Best bet: Cowboys +4.5 ($1.85)
Same game multi: Ronaldo Mulitalo to score a try / Kyle Feldt to score a try ($2.80)
Sydney Roosters vs. Manly Sea Eagles prediction, tip, best bet
Allianz Stadium will host the second semi-final this weekend, although it will be like a true home-ground advantage for the Roosters.
Trent Robinson's side showed some promising fight in the second half but they were completely outclassed and outworked by the Panthers in their qualifying final.
Following some key injury blows, they will be boosted by the return of Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, while the injured Victor Radley could potentially be back in action earlier than expected.
The Sea Eagles will be pleased to emerge from a tough win last week without any new additions to the casualty ward.
If Daly Cherry-Evans and Tom Trbojevic are firing on Saturday, this Manly team can absolutely get the job done. However, the side's 2024 campaign has been inconsistent, which makes them harder to trust.
Expect the Roosters' team-wide finals experience to guide them to a close win.
Prediction: Roosters by 6
Best bet: Either team by 12 or less ($1.70)
Same game multi: Roosters +4.5 / James Tedesco to score a try ($2.60)
