Match Analysis: Sydney Roosters vs South Sydney Rabbitohs – Prediction
Match Details
- Date: 2025-09-05
- Time: 10:00 AM UTC
- Location: Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Australia
Game Overview
The Sydney Roosters face the South Sydney Rabbitohs in a crucial Round 27 NRL match at Allianz Stadium. The Roosters sit 8th on the ladder needing a win to secure a top-eight spot and hence a finals berth, while the Rabbitohs are 13th, aiming to upset the Roosters and spoil their playoff hopes. Both teams boast strong lineups with key returning players and a heated rivalry amplified by the Ron Coote Cup history. The game promises a high-intensity, tightly contested battle.
Key Factors to Consider
- The Roosters come into the match with strong momentum following a commanding 40-10 win over the Melbourne Storm, showcasing sharp attack and solid defense. South Sydney, with a 9-14 record for the season, have struggled with consistency but are boosted by the return of Cameron Murray and Jack Wighton, restoring some much-needed experience and physicality.
- Historically, the Roosters and Rabbitohs are fierce rivals with the Ron Coote Cup evenly contested. In 2025, Rabbitohs lead the Cup by six points thanks to a 20-14 Round 5 win over the Roosters. Previous recent encounters have seen the Roosters dominate aggregate scores, including high-scoring matches in 2024 and 2023. This rivalry heightens competitive intensity.
- Key injury update sees Roosters welcoming back halfback Sam Walker from concussion, strengthening their halves. The Rabbitohs gain a major boost with Cameron Murray returning from a season-ending Achilles rupture and Jack Wighton back from suspension. However, Latrell Mitchell remains out with a back injury, which is a significant loss for South Sydney.
- The match is played at Allianz Stadium, providing home-ground advantage to the Roosters. It is also the Roostersβ final home game of the regular season and Red Rooster Memberβs Round, likely boosting atmosphere and motivation. Weather or other external conditions were not specified but assume typical Sydney early spring conditions.
- The Roosters are motivated to win to clinch a finals spot and close their home regular season on a high. The Rabbitohs seek to extend their slim chance for finals contention and have an additional incentive as Alex Johnston chases the premiership try-scoring record during this game, making personal milestones a key motivational factor.
Odds and Predictions
| Category | Odds | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | South Sydney Rabbitohs: 310, Sydney Roosters: -385, Draw: 2300 | Sydney Roosters | β β β β β 78% |
| Spread | South Sydney Rabbitohs: 10.5 -105, Sydney Roosters: -10.5 -125 | Sydney Roosters -10.5 | β β β β β 70% |
| Over/under | Over: 50.5 -145, Under: 50.5 110 | Over 50.5 points | β β β ββ 65% |
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
| Market | EV Pick |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | Sydney Roosters -7% |
| Spread | N/A |
| Over/Under | Over 50.5 1% |
π₯ Best Value Pick: Over 50.5 at 1% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 2% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Based on current form, home advantage, and squad strength, the Sydney Roosters are predicted to win this match. The return of key players and recent dominant performance position them as favorites, although the Rabbitohs' motivational storylines and key returning players could make the scoreline competitive.
Predicted Score: Sydney Roosters 28 – South Sydney Rabbitohs 18