Panthers vs Knights: Thrilling NRL Round 12 Clash
The NRL heads to the scenic Golden West of Bathurst this Saturday as the Penrith Panthers embark on their annual showdown against the Newcastle Knights. With both teams facing significant challenges, this match promises to be an intriguing spectacle. Can the Knights seize this golden opportunity with the Panthers missing key players due to Origin commitments and injuries?
If you’re looking to enhance your betting experience, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive match preview, best bets, and an enticing Same Game Multi. Make sure to check out the odds from Ladbrokes!
Match Details
- Location: Carrington Park – Bathurst
- Date: Saturday, 24th May
- Time: 5:30 PM AEST
Current Odds
Panthers: $1.48 vs Knights: $2.65
Line: Panthers (-5.5)
Total Points: 43.5
Note: Odds may fluctuate as we approach the match, so stay updated!
In-Depth Match Preview
The Panthers enter this crucial Round 12 clash somewhat battered, having recently returned from a bye week. Currently, they are missing five key players due to Origin duties, and they also face setbacks with Scott Sorensen serving a suspension, in addition to injuries to Papali’i and Garner. Their last outing saw them squander a 12-point lead against the Cowboys, highlighting ongoing struggles that cast doubt on their performance this season. This could very well be a potential banana peel for them!
On the flip side, the Knights come into this game reeling from a devastating 28-6 loss to the bottom-of-the-table Eels in Round 11. With confidence at an all-time low, they face an uphill battle. Even though Kalyn Ponga put up promising stats, running 254 meters and breaking six tackles, it simply wasn’t enough to lift his team. For the Knights, this match against the Panthers is of paramount importance; a loss could shatter their playoff hopes.
Last year’s encounters between these teams saw the Panthers clinch victory twice, but not without struggle. When they hosted the Panthers last season, the Knights rallied after a halftime deficit, ultimately losing 26-18. In their second meeting, the Knights’ resilience was on display again, holding the Panthers to a tense tie until a late try sealed the deal for Penrith. Their recent history shows that the Knights can compete with the Panthers, making this game more unpredictable.
Betting Analysis
The Panthers started as 8.5-point favorites, a line that quickly dropped to 5.5 as the betting public reacted to the Panthers’ injury woes. An adjusted spread closer to 11.5 would be more in line if both teams were at full strength, so the current line might lack value for bettors looking for the optimal odds.
When it comes to the total points, 43.5 seems reasonable, but with both teams missing key attacking players, I’d lean towards the under. While uncertain factors remain, this bet offers the most value given the circumstances.
Bet Recommendation: Under 43.5 Points
Odds: $1.94 (1 Unit)
Exciting Same Game Multi
This 2025 NRL season, we’ll be crafting a compelling Same Game Multi for every match using BoomBet’s BetShare feature. Just click the button below to add our selections right into your bet slip!
- Leg 1: Knights ML – The Panthers have struggled without their Origin stars, making the Knights an appealing bet.
- Leg 2: P Alamoti (1+ try) – With six tries in ten games this season, Alamoti has the potential to find the end zone.
- Leg 3: F Sharpe (1+ try) – Sharpe’s odds are attractive, and his position at fullback provides a great opportunity for him to exploit the Panthers’ defense.
SGM Odds: $9.50 at BoomBet
With this high-stakes matchup looming, be sure to tune in and grab your betting slip ready! Happy betting, and may the best team win!
