North Queensland Cowboys vs Parramatta Eels 

Friday September 23 | Queensland Country Bank Stadium | 7.50pm AEST

The Cowboys host their first ever final at their new stadium as they look to cap a stellar season which has surprised almost everyone. Coach Todd Payten has instilled a toughness in the Cowboys which was on full display when they came-from-behind to topple the Sharks in an inspirational away win that took 93 minutes. The win earned the Cowboys the week off, and affords them the luxury of entering this clash with the Eels with fresh legs as they look to secure a grand final slot after finishing 15th in 2021. As for the Eels, this is first time they’ve made the final four since 2009 and in that year they went on to make the decider. They come into this clash after cruising past a lacklustre Raiders side. These two sides met once earlier this year and it was the Cowboys who went into Eels territory to score a devastating 35-4 win. While the overall recent ledger between these two is quite even, it’s the Cowboys who have dominated at home when facing the Eels, winning seven of the past eight. They should continue that trend.

Suggested bet: 2u Cowboys win at $1.71

Penrith Panthers vs South Sydney Rabbitohs

Saturday September 24 | Accor Stadium | 7.50pm AEST

The Panthers head into this as rightful clear favourites, with their recent overall dominance extending to the Rabbitohs, who they’ve only lost to once from the past nine clashes. They come into this well rested after being too classy for the Eels a fortnight ago. The Rabbitohs have done it much tougher but have been impressive beating the Roosters and Sharks. The Panthers have played just one game in nearly four weeks, and Nathan Cleary has returned seamlessly into the side. Defence will be the key here with the Panthers the leading side when it comes to conceded points, leaking on average just 13.5 a game. Souths rank on top for metres gained from offloads and it’ll be the likes of Latrell Mitchell and Campbell Graham who could swing this game in their favour. Not overly keen on betting into this game but I do think the Rabbitohs can be competitive.

Suggested bet: 1u Rabbitohs -8.5 at $1.90