Match Analysis: Cronulla Sutherland Sharks vs North Queensland Cowboys – Prediction
Match Details
- Date: 2025-08-03
- Time: 6:05 AM UTC
- Location: Shark Park
Game Overview
The Cronulla Sutherland Sharks host the North Queensland Cowboys in an important Round 22 NRL clash. The Sharks are strong favourites, aiming for a fourth straight win and solidifying their top-eight position, while the Cowboys are desperate to keep their faint finals hopes alive with a favourable run home.
Key Factors to Consider
- Cronulla Sharks have been showing consistent form recently, with three consecutive wins including a narrow 14-12 victory over the Rabbitohs. The Cowboys managed a high-scoring 38-32 win over the Dragons but continue to suffer from the league's worst defense.
- The Sharks have a strong historical advantage and recent dominance against the Cowboys, including a comprehensive 36-12 win earlier in 2025. Simulations predict an 80% chance of Sharks winning this match.
- The Cowboys are missing key five-eighth Tom Duffy due to injury, replaced by Jake Clifford. Suspended forward Karl Lawton is also out; Emarly Bitungane debuts. Sharks have key players Briton Nikora and Siosifa Talakai returning, strengthening their pack.
- The match is at Shark Park, giving the Sharks home-ground advantage. The Sharks are motivated to maintain top-eight positioning; the Cowboys are motivated to spark a late-season finals charge.
- Cronulla is motivated to continue their winning streak for finals security; the Cowboys must win to keep playoff hopes alive, adding urgency to their play.
Odds and Predictions
Category | Odds | Prediction | Confidence |
---|---|---|---|
Moneyline | home: -240, away: 205, draw: 2500 | Cronulla Sutherland Sharks | β β β β β 80% |
Spread | home: -110, away: -120 | Cronulla Sutherland Sharks -8.5 | β β β β β 75% |
Over/under | over: -115, under: -115 | Over 48.5 | β β β β β 70% |
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
Market | EV Pick |
---|---|
Moneyline | Cronulla Sutherland Sharks 13% |
Spread | N/A |
Over/Under | Over 48.5 22% |
π₯ Best Value Pick: Over 48.5 at 22% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 24.8% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Cronulla Sutherland Sharks to win straight up, cover the -8.5 spread, and the total points to go over 48.5
Predicted Score: 28-18 Cronulla Sutherland Sharks