The top four sides have made it through the first two weeks of finals, and are now just one match away from the decider.
The Storm welcome the Roosters to Melbourne on Friday in a clash between two heavyweight NRL coaches.
On Saturday, the Panthers will continue their push for an unprecedented fourth consecutive premiership when they host the Sharks.
Who will book their ticket to October's grand final in Sydney?
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Below are The Sporting News’ betting predictions and best bets for the prelim finals. All odds via TAB.
Melbourne Storm vs. Sydney Roosters prediction, tip, best bet
The Roosters face a daunting challenge when they head down to AAMI Park for the opening prelim.
The last five clashes between the side have all gone the Storm's way, with the Triclours' last win coming in 2022.
A commanding victory over the Sea Eagles in their recent eliminations gives Trent Robinson's side some nice momentum, with the team now looking comfortable without the injured Sam Walker and Brandon Smith.
Melbourne have been a class above this season, though, and they now have a fully fit and well-rested squad available.
Craig Bellamy has gotten the better of his Robinson in recent years and it's hard to see that stopping on Friday.
Prediction: Storm by 10
Best bet: Xavier Coates to score first, second or third try ($2.75)
Penrith Panthers vs. Cronulla Sharks prediction, tip, best bet
The only thing worse than playing the Panthers in the finals is playing a well-rested Panther side in the finals.
Nathan Cleary was an injury doubt for their qualifying clash, but the superstar halfback was deemed fit and was mightily impressive. With an extra week to train and recover, he could even go up another level.
We saw how the Roosters were torn apart in the qualifying final a fortnight ago, and the Sharks are arguably a slightly weaker side.
Craig Fitzgibbon's team showed what they were capable of last week, but even that may not be enough against a modern NRL juggernaut.
Prediction: Panthers by 20
Best bet: Over 42.5 points ($2.00)
