South Sydney Rabbitohs by 6
Well, well, well, we're right in the thick of it in round 18 of the NRL season. On one hand we've got the South Sydney Rabbitohs glancing sideways at the Parramatta Eels, a cheeky 3.5 spread hanging between them, both teams in a critical "impress the in-laws at Christmas dinner" situation.
Looking at the last three bouts between these two, you could generously describe it as a mixed bag of apples and anchors. In 2022, the Bunnies hopped away with the win, but got their tails snipped in 2023, only for a reversal in 2024 where Eels found themselves on the slippery end of a 42 - 26 defeat.
Moving onto the seasonal records... oh boy, not impressive, to say the least. The Rabbitohs lead with 5-9 against the Eels' 4-11. That's the kind of record that makes you lose faith in the Tooth Fairy.
The recent streaks? Ha! That paints a picture, doesn't it? Rabbitohs are practically riding the wave of a mid-summer beach soap opera, capping off with a robust win against the Eels. The Eels on the other hand...let's just say they rolled more than they slithered.
Both teams are sticking at the tail end of the ladder, with the Bunnies at #14 and the Eels at a less-than-impressive #16. Safe to say, neither will be getting any postcards from the top eight this season.
Now, we've taken the winding journey down these teams' seasons and before I divulge my insider tip (and no, it's not about my favorite sandwich), remember, I don’t have a crystal ball, and when ruggers get together, it’s as predictable as a cat on a hot tin roof.
Albert’s Prediction: South Sydney Rabbitohs by 6