NRL Round 22 - Monday Night Preview

Penrith Panthers v Sydney Roosters @ Pepper Stadium

The Panthers need a win to jump into 8th spot as they take on the Roosters at Pepper Stadium on Monday Night. Penrith suddenly find themselves on the outside looking in after the Wests Tigers shock victory over the Cowboys at Leichhardt Oval. The Roosters will be looking to build on a comprehensive win against the Broncos, and have had a 10 day turnaround to get themselves up for this game. 

The Panthers blew their chance to move into 7th with a golden point loss to the Warriors in Auckland last weekend. The side has been involved in more close games then any other NRL club this season and has fallen on the wrong side of the ledger more often then not. With games to come against the Tigers, Knights and Manly Penrith have a good run home and can start building momentum with a win on Monday Night. With near a full strength side at their disposal their is no excuses for Anthony Griffin's men. 

The Roosters have been similar to the Panthers in that they have lost plenty of close games in 2016. The side has often found a way to beat itself with more discipline and poor completions. Boyd Cordner has been in outstanding from of late and he will be relishing the chance to run at Nathan Clearly and the test the young halfback on the edges. Earlier this season in miserable conditions the Roosters were narrowly beaten by the Panthers 20-16 at the Sydney Football Stadium.

Verdict - I just think Penrith have too much to play for here. Being at home on a cold Monday night surely they can get the job done. I expect the Roosters to be ultra competitive and make it hard work for Penrith. Penrith to prevail in the last 20 minutes. Panthers by 7.