Betting tips / James Sweeney / 01 August 2012 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market

James Sweeney is expecting a tight tussle between the Dragons and Roosters this weekend in the NRL, and sees the Chooks winning in a possible upset...

Sydney Roosters v St George Illawarra
1 unit on Sydney Roosters @ Betfair Match Odds of (2.40) or better

Hopes are high at St George Illawarra after their strong victory over the faltering Melbourne last Friday night.

The Dragons dominated Melbourne and actually found some semblance of attack, though it should be noted they did score a number of long range tries from errors.

The Roosters, meanwhile, suffered a fifth-straight loss at home to the Titans and have now won just two of their last 12 outings.

The Chooks are certainly a chance this week, however, with the Dragons looking for their first back-to-back win since round eight (also against the Roosters, a game they snatched from the fire). The Dragons have lost eight straight on the road this year, by an average of 14 points, and have covered the start just twice in their last 10 matches.

The Roosters have won only three of 15 against the Dragons but look over the odds with a close affair expected on Friday night.

New Zealand v Cronulla
1 unit on Cronulla @ Betfair Match Odds of (2.45) or better

Both the Warriors and Sharks have fallen in a heap and a loss here could prove disastrous for either side, especially considering both enter this encounter off a brutal last minute defeat in their last outing.

A loss for the Sharks and they could slip out of the eight for the first time all year, while a loss for the Warriors spells an immediate end to their 2012 campaign.

There is no question that the Sharks are a mentally tougher outfit, and with Paul Gallen and Todd Carney expected to return the Sharks will be a lot stronger this week. The Sharks have travelled well this year, winning both interstate matches as big underdogs, while the Warriors have won only one of their last three at home.

Don't underestimate the importance of the ins - the Sharks are a far more dangerous team with Todd Carney and a much tougher one with Paul Gallen.

Canberra v Brisbane
1 unit on Canberra @ Betfair Match Odds of (1.95) or better

Last weekend Canberra failed again at home as an overwhelming favourite and I'm tipping the punters will be off them in a big way.

The Broncos were disgraceful on Monday night against Parramatta, not only did their attack lack any potency- the edge defence on both sides was almost non-existent.

The Broncos have won nine of 15 against the Raiders, but Canberra have won four of the last five between the two teams in the nation's capital.

With Brisbane having lost four of their last five on the road, Canberra can collect the cash as a home underdog.