Penrith Panthers vs Parramatta Eels Prediction: Panthers to win consecutive finals

The 2022/2023 playoff final of the National Rugby League season will feature Penrith Panthers and Parramatta Eels. Panthers will hope to make it their second final win in three years. Meanwhile, the Eels will be focused on winning this trophy for the first time. 

This will be the third time Penrith Panthers will make it to the playoff finals for consecutive years. In their first year in 2020, Penrith Panthers lost 20-26 to Melbourne Storm. However, they did well in 2021, defeating South Sydney Rabbitohs 14-12. In their vying for their second possible win, Penrith Panthers will hope they can comfortably get a win in this match. Nathan Clearly is expected to be their most important player in this match as he is expected to lead the attack. On their road to the final, Penrith Panthers previously defeated Parramatta Eels and South Sydney Rabbitohs.

Parramatta Eels will hope they can overturn their 27-8 loss to Penrith Panthers in the ⅛ round and enjoy an improved performance in this final. The Eels who has won four matches in their last five matches will be confident that they can build on those wins and secure the National Rugby League trophy. In their last match against North Queensland Cowboys, the Eels overturned a second half poor performance and won 20-24. We expect a similar relentless performance in this match.

Both Penrith Panthers and Parramatta Eels deserve a win in this match even though the bookies have placed Penrith Panthers as favorites. Looking at their recent meetings, Parramatta Eels has a win advantage over Penrith Panthers. However, the quality of players in Penrith Panthers may be a reason for Panthers to get a tight win.