The 2024 NRL Magic Round will continue over the weekend, promising an action-packed Sunday afternoon of rugby league. Among the pivotal match-ups on May 19 at the Suncorp Stadium are three eagerly anticipated encounters that are sure to keep Redcliffe fans on the edge of their seats. The Warriors clash with the Panthers and the Storm battle the Eels before the main event kicks off: Dolphins vs Tigers at 6:25 p.m.
Warriors vs Panthers
Kicking off at 1:50 p.m, the Warriors and Panthers will both be without their star playmakers. Shaun Johnson’s pectoral injury has dealt a serious blow to the Warriors, who are languishing in 14th place on the ladder.
Reigning champion and second-placed Panthers are no strangers to overcoming adversity, but the loss of Nathan Cleary is a challenge they will have to overcome yet again. Despite the absence of their talismanic leaders, this blockbuster promises to be a fiercely contested affair.
Storm vs Eels
Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy will be looking for an immediate response from his side when they take on the Eels in the 4:00 p.m. clash. The Storm, coming off a loss to the Sharks, have an amazing record at Suncorp Stadium, although they were beaten by the Rabbitohs in last year’s Magic Round.
For Parramatta, the imminent return of Mitchell Moses from a foot injury could provide a timely boost as the halfback makes a late push for a State of Origin call-up. His inclusion would be a welcome addition for the Eels, who will need to be at their best to overcome the relentless Storm outfit.
Dolphins vs Tigers
The resurgent Dolphins, riding a four-game winning streak, will fancy their chances of extending their impressive run when they face the struggling Wests Tigers in the 6:25 p.m. main event. Wayne Bennett’s side could welcome back star fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, further bolstering their top-four aspirations.
The Tigers, mired in a six-game losing skid, will be desperate to turn their efforts into points. With Isaiah Papali’i suspended and Aidan Sezer sidelined, the spotlight will fall on young guns Lachie Galvin and Jahream Bula to provide the necessary spark and inspire an unlikely upset over the in-form Dolphins. This clash promises to be a tantalising contrast of fortunes as the Magic Round reaches its conclusion.
As the Magic Round concludes on Sunday, fans can expect a festival of football like no other, with pivotal battles, potential milestones, and the ever-present unpredictability that makes the NRL’s showcase event a must-watch spectacle.
Published 15-May-2024