We love mathematics at BeyondTheGame.TV especially when those mathematics don’t quite add up. For example when was the last time you were able to divide 4 into 3? With one round left in the NRL, teams placed 6th to 9th (Panthers, Cowboys, Sea Eagles, Dragons) are vying for the last three spots on the ladder.

Panthers

Current: 6th/ 30 Points – Best Case: 5th. Worst Case: 9th

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It’s unlikely the Cowboys will make up the differential to overtake them, and in turn the Sharks need to lose. So at this stage their match with the Sea Eagles could be the defining game of the round.

Cowboys

Current: 7th/ 30 Points – Best Case : 5th. Worst Case: 9th

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Much like above, the Cowboys need to make up about 30 points in differential and need the Sharks and the Panthers to lose. But with their side shot to pieces with injury, it seems likely the Cowboys will be happy to just get the win and scrape into the 8.

Sea Eagles

Current: 8th/ 30 Points – Best Case: 5th. Worst Case: 9th

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If they can overcome the Panthers they also need a 10-point swing in differential over the Cowboys and again a Sharks loss. But much like the above, the loser of this game between the Sea Eagles and the Panthers will be anxious to hold onto 8th.

Dragons

Current: 9th/ 28 Points – Best Case: 7th. Worst Case: 10th

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Even though they are two competition points behind the above teams, they have a better differential than all of them. So their plan is simple, win this week and they will at least overtake the loser of the Panthers Dragons match.

Four NRL Teams Three Spots

Although mathematically the NRL teams above can make 5th spot. The Sharks should beat the Knights this weekend. Most sides will be looking for 6th spot.

The most vulnerable side looks to be the Cowboys. They are injury ridden and running on fumes. Not to mention the Broncos will be looking to make a statement against them after being taken to Rugby League school by the Eels last week.

How will it play out

In the predictor we have the Sea Eagles winning at home as the Panthers look a little fatigued coming off their record run last week. And playing for everything, the Dragons over the Bulldogs.

Therefore this is how we predict the bottom half of the ladder:

6th Sea Eagles

7th Dragons

8th Panthers

9th Cowboys

However it evens out in the wash, enjoy your footy and bring on September!

by Darrin Seath – contributor