Panthers v Storm NRL R23 tips & best odds – Friday, August 4

Panthers v Storm NRL best bet

Panthers v Storm match preview

Friday night NRL action continues with a blockbuster clash in Penrith as the Panthers host the Melbourne Storm. This shapes to be the match of round 23, as the two sides have developed a fierce rivalry in recent years.

Storm coach Craig Bellamy has made one change following his side’s emphatic victory over the Eels in round 22. Nelson Asofa-Solomona has been named to return from a finger injury, taking his place in the second row. Tom Eisenhuth will come off the interchange bench and Tyran Wishart has been dropped back to the reserves.

Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has been forced to make one change following the Panthers’ dominant win over the Sharks last weekend. Zac Hosking has been named to replace Tyrone Peachey (suspended) in the centres; however, Izack Tago has been named in the reserves and could be a late inclusion to the starting side.

The Melbourne Storm sit in fourth position on the NRL ladder having won three of their last five games; however, the visitors have struggled to string together back-to-back wins since round 17. Meanwhile, the Panthers have been not beaten since round 16, when they were without their State of Origin stars.

The Panthers have been flexing their premiership muscles in recent weeks following the return of Nathan Cleary, and Friday night should be no different on their home ground. Back the Panthers to cover the -9.5 line at $1.90 with the best NRL bookmakers.

The Panthers have won two of their last three matches against the Storm, with Penrith centre Tago scoring doubles on both occasions. Tago has terrorised the Storm with his incredible line-running in set pieces, strength to break tackles and ability to simply be in the right place at the right time. If Tago is brought into the side late, he could be a good value bet to score another double, so keep an eye on the markets on matchday.

Panthers v Storm key matchup: Cleary v Munster

Nathan Cleary vs Cameron Munster

The battle between these two Kangaroos halves will be the highlight of the weekend. Nathan Cleary is the best game-manager and one of the best kickers in the NRL, leading his side to strong victories on countless occasions. Cameron Munster has the raw ability to create opportunities from thin air as he did against the Eels last weekend, throwing dummy passes and stepping his way to an incredible try late in the match. If Cleary switches off in defence for one tackle, Munster will take full advantage and could inspire the visitors to an unlikely win in Penrith.

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