As the 2024 NRL season approaches its climax, the race to secure spots in the finals is intensifying. With only three weeks left in the regular season, several teams are scrambling to clinch a top-eight position, while others are striving to improve their standings for a stronger finish.
The Melbourne Storm have emerged as the standout team of the season, securing the minor premiership with their impressive performance so far. They have accumulated 42 points from 18 wins, placing them at the top of the ladder. Their recent dominant win against the Dolphins solidified their position, although coach Craig Bellamy plans to rest key players in the final weeks to prepare for the finals. Notable victories include their triumphs over the Roosters, Eels, and Panthers, showcasing their attacking prowess even with injuries to crucial players.
The Penrith Panthers, currently second, have faced a setback with back-to-back losses. Their recent defeat to the Raiders, combined with a shoulder injury to star halfback Nathan Cleary, has put their top-four position in jeopardy. Despite Cleary’s earlier strong performances, including a hat-trick against the Dragons and a decisive late comeback win against the Eels, the Panthers will need to regroup and maintain their form to stay in the top four.
The Sydney Roosters, in third place, are well-positioned for a strong finish. They have been on a winning streak and will face the Titans, Raiders, and Rabbitohs in their remaining matches. With recent wins against the Sea Eagles and Dolphins, the Roosters are looking to continue their momentum and potentially challenge for the top spot.
The Cronulla Sharks hold the fourth position, having recovered from a rough patch earlier in the season. They have won three of their last four games, including a dominant victory over the Titans. Despite missing Nicho Hynes for a significant period, the Sharks, led by Braydon Trindall, have shown resilience and aim to secure their place in the finals with upcoming fixtures against the Dragons and Warriors.
In fifth place, the Canterbury Bulldogs have seen a turnaround in their fortunes under coach Cameron Ciraldo. Their strong defensive play has contributed to their rise up the ladder, and they have confirmed their finals spot with a series of consecutive wins. Their defensive prowess, second only to the Panthers, has been a key factor in their successful season.
The North Queensland Cowboys, ranked sixth, are finishing the season strongly with four wins in their last five games. Although they have a challenging finish with matches against the Storm and Bulldogs, the Cowboys have shown they can compete with the best.
The Manly Sea Eagles, now in seventh, have had a mixed season but are still in contention for a finals spot. They have regained the services of Tom Trbojevic, though recent losses, including a surprising defeat to the Tigers, have complicated their path to the top four. They face crucial games against the Bulldogs and Sharks to secure their place in the finals.
The St George Illawarra Dragons are currently in eighth place. Despite a significant win against the Storm, their form has been inconsistent. The Dragons need strong performances in their remaining games against the Sharks, Eels, and Raiders to ensure they keep their spot in the finals.
Teams outside the top eight, such as the Brisbane Broncos, Dolphins, Newcastle Knights, and Canberra Raiders, still have hopes of making the finals but require favorable results in their remaining fixtures. The Broncos and Dolphins are locked in a critical clash that could determine their chances, while the Knights and Raiders need to secure victories and rely on other results to make a push for the top eight.
Teams that have been eliminated from finals contention include the Gold Coast Titans, New Zealand Warriors, South Sydney Rabbitohs, Parramatta Eels, and Wests Tigers. These teams will focus on finishing their seasons strongly, despite missing out on the playoffs.
As the regular season nears its end, the competition remains fierce, with the final weeks promising exciting and pivotal matches that will determine the final composition of the NRL finals.
