Sharks v Raiders NRL R27 betting tips – Sunday, September 3

Sharks v Raiders NRL R27 best bets

Sharks v Raiders NRL R27 match preview

In the final match of the 2023 NRL home-and-away season, the Canberra Raiders travel up to Cronulla to face the Sharks in a match with major finals implications for both sides.

The Sharks faced off against the Newcastle Knights last weekend and were comfortably beaten by 26 points. After scoring the first try, it was all downhill from there as the Knights scored the next six tries to run out the game.

The result leaves the Sharks in sixth position, equal on points with the Raiders. A win will secure a home final, but with their positive points differential, they are likely to only drop to seventh spot with a loss.

The Raiders hosted the Broncos last weekend, going down by 11 points at GIO Stadium. After a level first half, the Raiders took the lead early in the second half before the Broncos scored the last three tries of the match.

The Raiders have now slipped to seventh position on the NRL ladder. After losing four of their last six matches, they are a chance to miss the top eight. A win secures a home final for the Raiders, whereas a loss means they will rely on the Panthers beating the Cowboys or they will slip out of a finals position.

After missing last weekend, Cronulla halfback Nicho Hynes returns to the side. The Raiders, meanwhile, will be without key members of their forward pack, with Josh Papalii (injury) and Corey Horsburgh (suspension) both ruled out for the season.

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Sharks v Raiders NRL R27 betting strategy

The Raiders have won their last nine matches against the Sharks, who have been known to struggle against fellow top-eight sides. However, the Raiders haven’t beaten any sides currently above them on the ladder since round six. With Canberra’s key injuries and unimpressive recent form, we’re backing the Sharks at $1.35 with Neds.

Scoring a try in each of his last four matches at PointsBet Stadium, Sharks centre Jesse Ramien has been in excellent form at home this season. After scoring a try back in round three against the Raiders, we are backing Ramien to get over again at $2.40 with Palmerbet.

The last four matches between these two sides have gone over the total points line, and we are expecting a high-scoring contest again. When the Raiders are beaten, it is often by a comfortable amount, as they have conceded the most points of any side in the top eight. Over 45.5 total points is the play at $1.90 with top online bookmakers.

Key matchup: Mulitalo v Cotric

Ronaldo Mulitalo vs Nick Cotric

Leading the try-scoring for the Sharks this season, Ronaldo Mulitalo is a constant threat off the wing. Averaging a try a week for the last month, Mulitalo is in great form and looks certain to trouble the Canberra backline.

Coming off a try in each of his last two matches, Raiders winger Nick Cotric comes into this match in form. With Canberra’s season on the line, expect many high balls being sent his way. Playing outside the elusive Matt Timoko, look for Cotric to find opportunities as the defence is drawn inside.

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