NRL Round 9 Best Bets - Panthers and Warriors to continue impressive 2026 NRL campaigns

While they have won two of their four at home this season, they have also lost twice. An inability to outscore the opposition has seen any hopes of climbing the ladder dashed, and they now face a very strong side this week in a tough proposition. 

Perhaps most impressive this season has been their resolve. Three consecutive wins at the start of their season was followed by defeats to Wests Tigers and Cronulla Sharks, with this a real crossroad in their campaign. Instead of seeing two defeats turn into three and then four, they bounced back with three wins over Melbourne Storm, Gold Coast Titans and Dolphins in a brilliant run. 

While the Eels have won their last two against the Warriors, I am backing the latter to storm to a fourth consecutive win as they extend their exceptional run this season. 

Despite this loss, the Panthers will still feel like first place on the ladder is in their hands. Each of the Warriors, Wests Tigers, Rabbitohs and Roosters currently sit on 12 points, with all bar the Warriors holding a game in hand over the Panthers. Despite this, their +167 points difference means they sit comfortably clear when it comes to points score and conceded, with this something that currently sets the Panthers apart from the rest. 

Manly Sea Eagles can really can put their hands up in the battle for a top spot this weekend if they are able to defeat the Panthers. The Sea Eagles have picked up 10 points from their opening seven games, meaning they can move to within two points of the leaders with a win, while they can match their total if they also win their game in hand. However, beating the Panthers is far easier said than done. 

The Sea Eagles may boast wins in their last four matches, but they have lost eight of their last 10 against the Panthers. I predict that the travelling side will put up a fight against their opponents, but I do not back them to take anything from this match.