These are two teams that know each other well. The Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Roosters have had their share of battles on the field, and it's always been anyone's game – well, except for that time the Roosters massacred the Sharks 42-16 last year. But let's forget about it, shall we?
Now, if we look at the recent performance of both teams, the Roosters have been holding their ground pretty well. They triumphed over the Dragons and managed to silence the rowdy crowd of North Queensland Cowboys. They, however, fell a bit short against the Wests Tigers and the Raiders. The Sharks, on the flip side, have been on a roller-coaster ride, switching between winning and losing like it's a stroll in a park. Their most recent victory against the Dolphins is a decent performance, no doubt, but their landslide defeat against Melbourne Storm raises some question marks.
Considering the records of both teams this season, it's as tight as a miser's purse strings. The Sharks have a slight upper hand with a 9-8 record while the Roosters are poised at 8-8. With Roosters at #8 and Sharks just a place below at #9, this game could be the turning point of the season for both these teams.
Taking everything said into account, if my tea leaves could ever predict a rugby game, I'd say the Sharks have a slight edge in this contest. I imagine they'll take this game, but it definitely won't be by any margin that lets anyone breathe easy until the final whistle.
Albert’s Prediction: Cronulla Sharks by 1
