Penrith Panthers vs Cronulla Sharks Tips and Prediction
The Panthers reminded everyone in Round 1 exactly what their identity still is. Defence first, pressure everywhere and mistakes forced out of the opposition.
How this game shapes up
Penrith suffocated Brisbane in their opener, keeping the premiers scoreless and controlling the game through relentless defence.
That same defensive system has been a major problem for Cronulla in recent seasons. The Panthers have dominated this matchup and consistently shut down the Sharks attack.
Cronulla put 50 points on the Titans last week, but the step up in defensive quality here is enormous. Against Penrith, scoring chances are much harder to come by.
Best Bets
Panthers -7.5
Penrith have won nine of the last ten meetings between these sides and regularly control the tempo in this matchup. If their defence continues to pressure Cronulla’s halves, the Panthers should create enough opportunities to cover.
Tom Jenkins Anytime Tryscorer
Jenkins crossed twice last week and has now scored 15 tries in his last 16 games. Playing on the wing in a Penrith attack that consistently creates space out wide gives him strong chances to score again.
What could go wrong?
Cronulla still have plenty of attacking weapons with Nicho Hynes, Braydon Trindall and Addin Fonua-Blake capable of generating momentum through the middle.
If the Sharks control possession and limit Penrith’s defensive pressure, they could turn this into a much tighter contest.