NRL 2018 Matt Moylan

Arguably the most keenly awaited match in week 1 of the NRL Finals will take place between Minor Premiers the Roosters and the fourth placed, in-form Cronulla Sharks.

DraftStars will again put up a $2,000 prize pool for their main contest for this game. MoneyBall also has $2,000 on the line in their major contest, which costs $15 to enter. It is their contest that we will be running an eye over here.

Chalk – Valentine Holmes (Sharks)

Holmes has been in unbelievable form, picking up 7 scores over 52 in his last 8 games, with his last two matches scoring 78.3 and 77. He has averaged 65.3 in his last 4 games and 57.5 in his last 8 matches. He is the most expensive player at $11,600 but given that immense form, it’s easy to see why. Picking Holmes though means looking for value picks elsewhere in your side.

Chance – Chad Townsend (Sharks)

Townsend isn’t a flashy player, but he’s solid and reliable, especially when his forwards are playing well, which they have been over the last three weeks. In this time Townsend, who has a season average of 27.2, has averaged 44.9. At a price of $6,700, he has very good value for money. The Sharks love grinding games which in turns suits Townsend’s low-risk style of play.

Chump – Luke Keary (Roosters)

Keary’s return from injury has seen him score 23.9 and 26 at an average of near enough to 25, which is well down on his 31.4 season average. His last ten games has seen him score consistently in the 20’s, with just 3 scores above 26.5 (35.6, 43.2 and 58.7). Given the form of Townsend recently in comparison, and the fact that Keary costs $700 more, it looks safer form-wise and budget wise, to go with Townsend.