NRL Finals Weeks 1 Preview and Prediction - Manly Sea Eagles v Penrith Panthers @ Allianz Stadium

Manly Sea Eagles (6th) v Penrith Panthers (7th) @ Allianz Stadium  
 
Preview - The Sea Eagles and Panthers will clash for a 2nd week running when they meet in an Elimination Final at Lottoland on Saturday night. The Panthers will be looking for immediate revenge after a dreadful performance saw Manly jump them on the Premiership ladder with a 28-6 thumping at Lottoland last Saturday night. It’s been a great achievement by Trent Barrett and his men to win 14 games, after winning just 8 games in 2016 and finishing in 13th place. They have surprised many this season with both their flair and grit. The Panthers looked to be flying into the finals before worrying losses in Rounds 25 and 26, and a couple of injuries, halted their momentum. 
 
History - It was just 7 days ago that Manly belted the Panthers 28-12. However, that game was at Lottoland, not Allianz Stadium. The Panthers beat Manly earlier in the year at Penrith, grinding out a 16-8 victory at Pepper Stadium back in Round 18. Despite being thumped last week, Penrith have enjoyed playing Manly, winning 7 of the past 9 overall. Both sides enjoy strong records at Allianz Stadium, with Manly winning 11 of the past 16 there, and Penrith 3 of the past 4. Historically, the Sea Eagles hold a strong advantage with 51 wins to the Panthers 33, with 1 draw.

Manly Sea Eagles’ Scouting Report - The Sea Eagles have their first choice spine fit and raring to go, however Prop Darcy Lussick was charged with tripping and could miss the first week of the finals, as he fights the charge at the NRL Judiciary. If Tussock is ruled out, it is likely Shaun Lane will come into the side. Back rower Curtis Sironen made a strong return to the side last week, capped off with a try. 
 
Penrith Panthers’ Scouting Report - The Panthers look like they will have to make do with the same 17 that got thumped last week at the same venue. They are hopeful young gun fullback Dylan Edwards may return from a knee injury, however he is considered an outside chance only. Dean Whare will retain his spot at fullback in Edwards’ absence, while skipper Matt Moylan is unlikely to play any role in the finals after Phil Gould gave the talented playmaker some time away from football to deal with personal issues. 
 
Verdict - Manly by 2-10 in a high scoring game

Penrith will enjoy coming into this game as heavy underdogs, after going down as favourites in the past 2 matches. Whilst Manly would have gained plenty of confidence from their demolition of Penrith last week, it’s never easy to do that to the same opponent two weeks in a row. Psychologically, I actually think this game is easier for Penrith, however without Edwards and Moylan I'm not convinced they can turn it around into a victory. What I am expecting is an early Panthers’ ambush in this game, and for them to possibly lead this game at halftime, before Manly come over the top of them. The Sea Eagles have all their troops available and proved last week they have plenty of strike weapons capable of causing the Panthers’ defence plenty of problems.