Ah, it's that bitter taste of nostalgia as we see the Wests Tigers and Canberra Raiders facing off. Let's take a stroll down memory lane, shall we? Last time the Tigers actually managed to sink their claws into the Raiders was June 2024, with a striking 48-24 victory. Since then, however, our feline friends haven't been quite as predatory, losing twice in a row.
And with the regular season records reminding me a bit of a seesaw, it's clear the Raiders (11-3) have been having much better luck than the Tigers (5-8). The Raiders have been running rampant recently as well. Any team that puts 36 points on the Rabbitohs must mean business.
The Tigers on the other paw, um, hand... they've been rather tame. Losing to the Panthers isn't anything to be particularly ashamed of, but being toppled by the Cowboys and Rabbitohs? Not a good streak to be on.
Then there's the standings... Raiders sitting pretty high at #2, compared to the Tigers lounging lazily at #13. If this was a tree climbing competition, I'd be worried for the Tigers.
So, if you put a Tiger against a Raider, who do I think is going to take the cake? The Raiders are favoured here, but let's remember - they're not exactly Mr. Perfect, taking a loss from the Bulldogs in May. It's these minor hiccups that keep keeping things interesting.
Tipping my imaginary hat, I give you:
Albert’s Prediction: Canberra Raiders by 10