Penrith Panthers vs Cronulla Sharks Prediction: Title chase begins for the defending champions

In round 1 of the National Rugby League, the Penrith Panthers will play the Cronulla Sharks at Allegiant Stadium. The Panthers have won the last meetings of this fixture. Can Sharks pull off a shocking win? I will preview this game and offer the best betting opportunities. 

Penrith Panthers

Penrith Panthers finished the previous season with a decent performance and will hope things go their way this new season. In 24 matches, this team had 40 points, leaving them seated second in the standings. However, in their playoffs, they defeated Melbourne Storm in the final, which was enough to see them win their fifth title in a row. Heading into this game, the Penrith Panthers won one of their two games in the preseason, coming against the Manly Sea Eagles in a 22-38 contest. 

Cronulla Sharks

The Cronulla Sharks had a fantastic preseason performance and will hope to get things right in this opener. In their first game, this team pulled the battle with the New Zealand Warriors to a 12-12 draw. In the meantime, the Cronulla Sharks went to pull off a 10-40 win over the Canberra Raiders in their second encounter. However, the Cronulla Sharks finished in 4th place in the regular season, accumulating 38 points. With a defeat to the Penrith Panthers in the semifinal playoff, this team will head into this game as the underdog, having gone winless in five games against the Panthers. 

Expert Betting Tips

Penrith Panthers are just too good as a team, and it is tough to see this side lose. While the Cronulla Sharks open their season on the road, their performances in this game do not make them a good candidate. Also, with the Cronulla Sharks expected to focus on defensive play to avoid a defeat, a bet on a few points is a good option.

Our first option is a win for Penrith Panthers with odds at 1.72 on Bet365

Our second option under 40.5 with odds at 1.67 on Bet365

Our last option is away team totals under 18.5 with odds at 1.70 on Betway