We’re approaching the pointy end of the 2023 NRL season, with four rounds of action remaining before the finals.
The Brisbane Broncos will be hoping to keep their minor premiership hopes alive when they host the Parramatta Eels on Friday night.
Elsewhere, the Sydney Roosters host the Dolphins on Saturday as they look to make an unlikely late charge into the top-eight.
On Sunday, the Melbourne Storm will face the Canberra Raiders — the team they lost to twice at home last year.
Below are The Sporting News’ betting predictions and best bets for Round 23.
MORE: Broncos coach confident of long-term NRL premiership window
Cronulla Sharks vs. Gold Coast Titans prediction, tip, best bet
After a three-match losing streak, the Sharks are back in the winners’ circle, knocking off the Rabbitohs last week.
They now host the Titans and will be looking to build on that momentum.
Cronulla have notably won their last eight matches against the Gold Coast, with their last defeat to them coming in 2017.
At home with the goal to cement their finals status, we’re expecting the Sharks to record a big win against a bottom-eight side — something they’ve done multiple times this campaign.
BEST BET: Cronulla to win 13+ ($2.10)
Brisbane Broncos vs. Parramatta Eels prediction, tip, best bet
The Broncos are continuing to keep the pressure on the Panthers at the summit of the NRL ladder, and are favourites to pick up another two points this week.
The attacking nature of Kevin Walters’ side makes picking tryscorers an attractive option, particularly when the Eels have conceded at least 20 points in their last six games.
Brisbane have scored 51 per cent of their tries on the right edge (per Stats Insider), with Parramatta letting in the majority of four-pointers on that same side (39 per cent).
Expect the Broncos’ right edge to strike on Friday night, with Kotoni Staggs decent value to cross.
BEST BET: Kotoni Staggs anytime tryscorer ($2.10)
Sydney Roosters vs. Dolphins prediction, tip, best bet
There is still life in the Roosters’ 2023 campaign, but they will need to win against the Dolphins to keep their slim finals hopes alive.
The Tricolours’ victory last week against the Sea Eagles was emphatic, however, they concerningly let Manly back in the game late on.
They face the Dolphins this round — a side who rarely give up — and will have their work cut out for them.
On paper, the Roosters should get the win, but they will need a full 80-minute performance.
If not, the hearty Dolphins could go close to an upset.
BEST BET: Dolphins +9.5 ($1.90)
Melbourne Storm vs. Canberra Raiders prediction, tip, best bet
Whilst they have maintained a comfortable spot in the top-eight, the Raiders have been lacklusture for the past few weeks.
A trip down to Melbourne to play the Storm is a tough fixture for most teams, however, Canberra have had plenty of success in Victoria’s capital.
They stunned the Storm at AAMI Park in the first week of the 2022 finals, while also defeating them earlier in the season at the same venue.
At their best, Craig Bellamy’s side can put most teams to the sword, but the Raiders have been a bogey side.
We’re predicting Ricky Stuart will prepare his Green Machine well and put plenty of pressure on the home team.
BEST BET: Raiders +11.5 ($1.95)