BlueBet Stadium will play host to Friday's Round 26 NRL game between Penrith Panthers and South Sydney Rabbitohs. The game kicks off at 8:00 pm with Penrith Panthers heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Penrith Panthers vs. South Sydney Rabbitohs game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Friday August 30, 2024 at 8:00 pm

Where: BlueBet Stadium

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

Penrith Panthers vs South Sydney Rabbitohs Odds

Penrith Panthers vs South Sydney Rabbitohs Preview

Penrith’s top-four hopes are suddenly in jeopardy as they face depleted South Sydney at home, needing a win to regain form. The Panthers, missing star Nathan Cleary due to a shoulder injury, have uncharacteristically blown late leads in back-to-back losses against Melbourne (24-22) and Canberra (22-18). Sunia Turuva and Paul Alamoti replace Daine Laurie and Casey McLean, while Mitch Kenny returns from suspension.

South Sydney, languishing in 15th, are on a five-game losing streak, conceding an average of 27 points per game during this slide. They fell 36-16 to Newcastle last weekend and have struggled offensively, failing to score more than 16 points in any recent match. The loss of Cameron Murray to suspension adds to their woes, though Cody Walker returns from concussion protocols.

Penrith has dominated this matchup, winning 11 of the last 13 meetings, but the 17.5-point line feels large given the Panthers’ struggles without Cleary, with just one win by more than 16 points in 11 games.