Broncos v Sea Eagles

Manly will be glad that the Broncos are without so many key players and should be expected to build on last weeks win over the Eels. Brett Stewart continues to show good form and Matt Orford is a key man. The Broncos will be a good test of the Sea Eagles title credentials. Despite missing several stars they produced a solid performance last week and remain a dangerous outfit.

Key Man: Matt Orford (Sea Eagles) – Manly look a far better outfit when Orford is on song. The inexperience of the Broncos backline is a weakness that the former Melbourne man has to exploit.

Prediction: Sea Eagles by 10

Bulldogs v Eels

Both sides are set to field strong line ups for what promises to be a tight encounter. The Bulldogs, again inspired by "SBW", were impressive against the Dragons last week and will fancy their chances of following up here, although they are waiting to here if captain Andrew Ryan will be available. However, the Eels pushed Manly hard last week and have plenty of talent in their backline. If they can stop Sonny Bill they have a great chance.

Key Man: Nathan Hindmarsh (Eels) – Hindmarsh has struggled for his best form this season but he has a big role to play here. If he can inspire his troops to shut down Sonny Bill and his magic offloads they have every chance.

Prediction: Eels by 4

Cowboys v Raiders

The Cowboys have to win this clash; they are in serious danger of dropping form top four certainties to missing the finals all together. Graham Murray will be mightily disappointed with their showing against the Tigers and needs a response. The Raiders don't travel well and there less than impressive defence will find Matty Bowen and Jonathon Thurston a tough test. If the visitors are to have any chance they must dominate the forward battle and hope for big contributions from guys like Dobson and Carney again.

Key Man: Jonathon Thurston (Cowboys) – The home side are likely to find the forward battle hard work. Thurston could find himself put under a lot of pressure early on and needs to respond.

Prediction: Cowboys by 6

Knights v Dragons

The Knights have slipped up in recent weeks and last weeks mauling by the Warriors is bound to have taken its toll. They have some tremendous prospects in their line up but they are finding the going tough at the moment. The Dragons slipped up at home against the Bulldogs but would have taken the points had Jamie Soward had his kicking boots on and should find the Knights an easier proposition.

Key Man: Kurt Gidley (Knights) – The young Knights need somebody to steady their ship and will be looking to Gidley to take charge. If they can maintain their composure they have a great chance otherwise they could be in for a tough day at the office.

Prediction: Dragons by 12

Panthers v Rabbitohs

The Bunnies have a chance of making the top eight so a win at the struggling Panthers is a must. Eddie Paea and Issac Luke have added plenty of spark in recent weeks whilst Asotasi has proven to be a superb acquisition. Penrith look like a team destined for the wooden spoon and will find things tough against a team on the up.

Key Man: Roy Asotasi (Rabbitohs) – The young half back pairing of Paea and Roberts are showing some good form. If Asotasi and his fellow forwards can make the yard hards there is every chance the Rabbitohs can pick up a convincing victory.

Prediction: Rabbitohs by 10

Roosters v Warriors

This is probably the toughest game to call. Brad Fittler has rejuvenated the Roosters and they have looked a different side in recent weeks. The experienced guys like Fitzgibbon and Anasta are finally showing some form but, the Warriors were awesome against the Knights and their forward pack will look to dominate, whilst a guys like McKinnon and Rovelli and showing some good form in the backs.

Key Man: Braith Anasta (Roosters) – Anasta has been showing improved form of late and the Roosters need another good showing. The Warriors will make life tough for the young home side and they will need a cool head to lead the way.

Prediction: Warriors by 5

Sharks v Storm

The Sharks have been playing well without winning recently and have to be pleased with the performance of the young guys who have stepped up to first grade. However, Ricky Stuart was less than pleased with their showing against the Broncos and won't be too confident about this weeks match. The Storm will be looking to bounce back to form after last weeks shock defeat, they are the best team in the completion and will want to prove it.

Key Man: Cameron Smith (Storm) – The Storm need to bounce back well, two defeats at this stage of the season will cast a major doubt on their ability to handle pressure. Smith is a cool customer and must transfer his composure to his players on the field.

Prediction: Storm by 14

Titans v Tigers

The season cannot end quickly enough for a Titans outfit who've been hit by key injuries in recent weeks. The Tigers on the other hand are putting some great form together and were very impressive against the Cowboys last week. The Tigers know they need a victory to improve their chances of making the finals and with Robbie Farah pulling the strings they should have too much desire and skill for the home side.

Key Man: Robbie Farah (Tigers) – A genuine contender for the Dally M awards. Farah has been in great form for the Tigers and he is one of the most dangerous guys in the league.

Prediction: Tigers by 16

> James Green