NRL Preliminary Finals Betting Tips 2026: Best Bets & Tryscorers
The 2026 NRL Preliminary Finals are here, with the Dolphins facing the Sydney Roosters before Penrith take on Newcastle.
We've picked one game bet and one anytime tryscorer from each preliminary final.
Dolphins vs Sydney Roosters
Best Bet: Dolphins -2.5
The Dolphins have won eight straight matches and eight straight at Suncorp Stadium, while they've already beaten the Roosters 48-10 and 26-12 this season. Sydney were impressive against Cronulla, but we're sticking with Redcliffe to cover the short line at home.
Tryscorer: Selwyn Cobbo
Cobbo has scored in six consecutive games, crossing eight times during that run and 16 times across his last 12 appearances. He also scored a double against the Roosters earlier this season.
Penrith Panthers vs Newcastle Knights
Best Bet: Newcastle Knights +10.5
Penrith have dominated this matchup, but Newcastle have found another level defensively in the finals. The Knights have conceded just 20 points across sudden-death wins over South Sydney and the Warriors, making the 10.5-point start appealing.
Tryscorer: Bradman Best
Best is our preferred Newcastle tryscorer and gives Kalyn Ponga a powerful attacking option on the edge. Newcastle won't get endless opportunities against Penrith, but Best should be one of their first targets when they get good attacking ball.