Eels vs Broncos NRL Rd 19 top tips & odds | Thursday, July 21

Thursday Night Football kicks off from Parramatta when the Eels host the high-flying Brisbane Broncos. Round 19 is a crucial round for many clubs, especially these two, who are fighting for a spot in the top four.

The Parramatta Eels have had the Broncos measure in recent years. From the 46-6 thumping the Broncos got last year in Darwin, back to week one of the 2019 finals when the Broncos were belted 58-0. These memories will be fresh in the minds of many Broncos players come Thursday Night, will that be enough to spur them to victory?

The history between these two sides tells the tale of an even match up, with the Eels having only won four more clashes than Brisbane. However, in the last two matches alone, the Eels have won by a total of 70-22. This would all be factored into the Eels price of $1.60, and unfortunately for the Eels, the Brisbane side they will face Thursday is much better than sides of the last few years.

At their best, the Eels are obviously one of the best teams in the competition. However, their worst performance occurs more often than it should. The value in this match is with the Broncos. They are a totally rejuvenated side under the leadership of Adam Reynolds, and should they go on to win, it will be by a short margin. Backing the Broncos to win by 1-12 points is the play paying $3.30 with online bookmakers.

In the six losses the Eels have suffered this season, they have been behind on the scoreboard at half time. This suggests the Eels are control freaks that need to lead at the half if they’re any chance to win. Should Brisbane go on to win, history suggest they’ll be leading this match at half time. This creates value in the half time/full time market where Brisbane are paying $3.30 to pull of the double with Ladbrokes.

The Broncos receive back a host of Origin stars including Kurt Capewell, Pat Carrigan and Corey Oates. However, the star that isn’t returning is where the Broncos should look to direct their attack. Selwyn Cobbo is spending time with family following a horrific concussion sustained in Origin Three, meaning his partner in crime Kotoni Staggs will be the main man on the Broncos right edge. Much of Brisbane’s attack should be centred around Staggs, and in doing so, makes him the smart play for an any time try scorer paying $2.45.

KEY MATCH UP: JUNIOR PAULO v PAYNE HAAS

The battle of the big boys up front will be one of the best to watch this season. They are team mates at Origin level, meaning that in club land, they have a brilliant understanding of the other’s strengths and weaknesses. Both are incredibly strong ball carriers; however, Paulo is more known for his ball playing skills than Haas. That’s not to say Haas has no ball playing ability, because he has developed a combination with Carrigan that’s improved his late pass and offload. This clash will be one to keep an eye on to see who gets the upper hand on the other.

Parramatta Eels vs Brisbane Broncos betting tips

Eels vs Broncos same-game multi tips

More sports betting tips