SUNDAY, JUNE 1st, 2025.
Warriors v Souths
Accor Stadium, Sydney, 2pm
Rabbitohs Aim to Cement Top-Eight Spot as Warriors Loom Large
With the finals race heating up, the South Sydney Rabbitohs are eyeing a crucial step forward as they return to Accor Stadium on Sunday afternoon to face the dangerous New Zealand Warriors.
Fresh from a well-earned bye, Wayne Bennett’s men are riding the momentum of their Round 11 win over the Wests Tigers — and they know another strong performance is needed to keep their top-eight hopes alive.
Much of the spotlight will fall on emerging halfback Jamie Humphreys, whose growing confidence and poise will be tested against Warriors playmaker Luke Metcalf. The 26-year-old Kiwi dynamo is not only in dazzling form but currently leads the Dally M Medal race, holding a two-point edge over Cronulla’s Will Kennedy. With Dally M voting to go behind closed doors from Round 13, every touch from here on carries extra weight.
The Rabbitohs have made just one tweak to the side that downed the Tigers, with Sean Keppie added to the bench in place of Liam Le Blanc, who shifts to 18th man duties. Meanwhile, all eyes are on Latrell Mitchell — the electric fullback has been named to back up from Origin One, but Fletcher Myers looms among the reserves should a late reshuffle be required.
For South Sydney, it’s more than just another home game — it’s a chance to show they’re not just chasing a finals berth, but ready to seize it.
Souths
1. Latrell Mitchell 2. Alex Johnston 3. Isaiah Tass 4. Campbell Graham. 5. Bayleigh Bentley-Hape 6. Jayden Sullivan 7. Jamie Humphreys 8. Jai Arrow. 9. Siliva Havili 10. Keaon Koloamatangi 11. Euan Aitken 12. Tallis Duncan . 13. Lachlan Hubner 14. Jye Gray 15. Sean Keppie 16. Davvy Moale 17. Tevita Tatola . 18. Liam Le Blanc 19. Fletcher Myers 20. Shaquai Mitchell 21. Lewis Dodd 22. Jacob Host
Out: Liam Le Blanc (bench to reserve)
In: Sean Keppie (bench)
Warriors Look to Bounce Back on the Road After Rare Home Defeat
After tasting defeat on home soil for the first time in 2025, the Warriors are eager to reset and rediscover their rhythm as they head across the Tasman for a high-stakes clash against the Rabbitohs.
Their narrow loss to the Raiders in front of a stunned Auckland crowd was a bitter pill to swallow — not just because it broke their perfect home record, but because it came at a time when every competition point matters.
But if there’s one thing Andrew Webster’s men have proven this season, it’s that they don’t fear the road. In fact, the Warriors have thrived away from home, notching up five wins from their past six matches in Australia. Sunday offers a golden opportunity to turn the page and reassert themselves as top-four contenders.
They’ll be bolstered by the return of enforcer James Fisher-Harris, who slots straight back in after serving a suspension. Also returning is strike centre Rocco Berry, cleared of his hamstring concern. Mitch Barnett has been named to back up from his Origin One appearance, adding even more starch to the pack.
Leka Halasima, who started in the loss to Canberra, shifts back to the bench, while Jacob Laban moves to 18th man as the side sharpens its focus for a crucial away mission.
For the Warriors, the message is clear: one loss won’t define them — but how they respond just might.
Warriors
1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Adam Pompey . 4. Rocco Berry 5. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita 7. Luke Metcalf. 8. James Fisher-Harris 9. Wayde Egan 10. Mitchell Barnett 11. Kurt Capewell . 12. Marata Niukore 13. Erin Clark 14. Te Maire Martin 15. Leka Halasima. 16. Demitric Vaimauga 17. Jackson Ford 18. Jacob Laban 20. Samuel Healey . 21. Tanah Boyd 22. Tanner Stowers-Smith 23. Taine Tuaupiki
Out: Ali Leiataua (centre), Bunty Afoa (front row), Jacob Laban (bench to reserve)
In: Rocco Berry (centre), James Fisher-Harris (front row), Mitchell Barnett (front row)
Changes: Marata Niukore (front row to second row), Selumiela Halasima (second row to bench)
Key Stats
The Rabbitohs have won eight of their last nine games against the Warriors.
The Warriors have won five of their past six games in Australia.
Rabbitohs winger Alex Johnston has scored 27 tries in his last 25 games at Accor Stadium.
Warriors winger Roger Tuivasa-Sheck has scored six tries in his last seven games at Accor Stadium.
The Rabbitohs require two points for 5,000 points at Accor Stadium.
Prediction
The Rabbitohs come into Sunday’s showdown refreshed, recharged, and quietly dangerous. After enjoying a bye in Round 12, they’ve had extra time to prepare — and that could spell trouble for a Warriors side still licking their wounds from a heartbreaker against Canberra.
Last week’s tight loss in Auckland was the Warriors’ first defeat on home turf in 2025. And while Origin selections didn’t disrupt their preparations, the sting of that loss still lingers — a reminder that no game in this competition can be taken for granted.
Facing a Rabbitohs outfit that has already shown they can match — and beat — anyone on their day, Andrew Webster’s men know they’ll need to be sharp. South Sydney’s unpredictability, combined with the flair of Latrell Mitchell and the rise of young half Jamie Humphreys, makes them a genuine threat.
This one has the makings of a thriller. Expect the Warriors to edge it — but only just.
Referees: Wyatt Raymond, Touch Judges, Phil Henderson, Jon Stone, Bunker Kasey Badger.
Panthers v Eels
CommBank Stadium, Sydney, 4.05pm
Wounded Panthers Reload for Crucial Showdown with Eels
After a sobering road trip to Bathurst, the Penrith Panthers return home with a renewed sense of urgency and a point to prove as they prepare to face Parramatta in a clash that could shape the trajectory of their title defence.
Last week, with their State of Origin stars unavailable, the Panthers were a shadow of their usual selves, falling 25-6 to a resurgent Newcastle side. While Penrith’s depleted lineup battled hard, it was the Knights’ energy and hunger that stole the spotlight — a performance gap that won’t have sat well with coach Ivan Cleary.
But help is on the way.
Dylan Edwards, Brian To’o, Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, and Liam Martin have all been named to return, pending successful recovery from Origin duties. Their inclusion would provide a massive lift, restoring not just class but confidence to the defending premiers.
Scott Sorensen’s return from suspension also adds muscle to the back row, allowing Izack Tago to shift back to his natural position in the centres. Youngster Harrison Hassett retains his spot on the bench after a promising debut against the Knights, while Liam Henry begins a two-match suspension for a crusher tackle.
Daine Laurie and Paul Alamoti drop to the reserves, and Brad Schneider is listed as 18th man, ready to step in if needed.
With their heavyweights returning and pride on the line, Penrith know there’s no room for another misstep — not in a season where the competition is tighter than ever.
Panthers
1. Dylan Edwards 2. Thomas Jenkins 3. Izack Tago 4. Casey McLean. 5. Brian To’o 6. Blaize Talagi 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Moses Leota 9. Mitch Kenny . 10. Lindsay Smith 11. Scott Sorensen 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo . 14. Luke Sommerton 15. Matt Eisenhuth 16. Luron Patea 17. Harrison Hassett . 18. Brad Schneider 19. Riley Wake 20. Preston Riki 21. Daine Laurie 22. Jack Cole. 23. Paul Alamoti 24. Austin Dias
Out: Jesse McLean (wing), Liam Henry (second row), Daine Laurie, Paul Alamoti, Brad Schneider, Preston Riki (all to reserve)
In: Dylan Edwards (fullback), Brian To’o (wing), Nathan Cleary (halfback), Scott Sorensen (second row), Liam Martin (second row), Isaah Yeo (lock)
Changes: Thomas Jenkins (centre to wing), Matt Eisenhuth (front row to bench), Izack Tago (second row to centre), Lindsay Smith (lock to front row)
Eels Embrace the Underdog Tag Ahead of Fiery Western Derby
Don’t let the ladder positions fool you — when the Eels and Panthers collide, it’s never just another game. With Parramatta sitting 15th and Penrith, stunningly, anchored at the bottom of the table, Sunday’s western Sydney showdown carries more than just points — it’s about pride, momentum, and local bragging rights.
The Eels showed signs of life last week, snapping a tough run with a spirited win over the Sea Eagles. It was a performance driven by youth and hunger, with fullback Isaiah Iongi leading the way in a breakout display that gave fans something to believe in again.
Brad Arthur’s men will be buoyed by the return of key Origin duo Mitch Moses and Zac Lomax, whose experience and class bring stability to a reshuffled backline. Dean Hawkins makes way, named in the reserves, while Sean Russell shifts from wing to centre to cover for Will Penisini, who remains sidelined due to concussion protocols.
Young forward Joash Papalii, who turned heads with a confident debut last week, holds onto his bench spot as the Eels look to carry their momentum into enemy territory.
It might not be a top-of-the-table clash, but with old rivalries reignited and both teams desperate to spark a mid-season revival, this western derby still promises fireworks.
Eels
1. Isaiah Iongi 2. Zac Lomax 3. Sean Russell 4. Jordan Samrani 5. Josh Addo-Carr, 6. Dylan Brown 7. Mitchell Moses 8. Jack Williams 9. Ryley Smith 10. Junior Paulo . 11. Kelma Tuilagi 12. Kitione Kautoga 13. J’maine Hopgood 14. Dylan Walker . 15. Luca Moretti 16. Ryan Matterson 17. Joash Papali’i 18. Matt Doorey 19. Joey Lussick . 20. Toni Mataele 21. Dean Hawkins 22. Samuel Loizou
Out: Will Penisini (centre), Dean Hawkins (halfback to reserve)
In: Zac Lomax (wing), Mitchell Moses (halfback)
Changes: Sean Russell (wing to centre), Luca Moretti (second row to bench), Kelma Tuilagi (bench to second row)
Key Stats
The Panthers have won four of their past six games against the Eels.
The Eels have won three of their past four games against the Panthers at CommBank Stadium.
The Panthers have lost all three games at CommBank Stadium this season.
The Eels are aiming for three consecutive wins for the first time since 2023.
Panthers winger Brian To’o has scored 10 tries in 13 games against the Eels.
Prediction
The heavily depleted Panthers lost to the Knights last week in Bathurst. They have five players potentially backing up from State of Origin for this one. The Eels had an impressive win over the Sea Eagles last week as they continue to show signs of improvement. I can not see the Panthers losing here, if the Origin players are fit, and play. Panthers by 6 Points
Referees: Peter Gough, Touch Judges, Liam Kennedy, Kieren Irons, Bunker, Grant Atkins.
Roosters v Raiders
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, 6.15pm.
Youthful Roosters Take Flight as Raiders Roll into Town for Top-Four Showdown
Two Round 12 victors, both riding waves of confidence, collide this Sunday in a clash bursting with form, flair, and finals implications — the Roosters playing host to a red-hot Raiders outfit now sitting second on the ladder.
Last week, a severely Origin-depleted Roosters side answered every question asked of them — and then some. With five stars away on rep duty, it was the club’s next generation that stood tallest. Youngsters Benaiah Ioelu and Xavier Va’a were handed their debuts, and Va’a wasted no time making a statement, crossing for a try just 45 seconds into the match. It was the highlight of a commanding 42-16 demolition job, further evidence that Trent Robinson’s men are finding their rhythm at just the right time.
But the challenge ahead is a different beast. The Raiders showed grit and composure to grind out a tough win over the Warriors in wet New Zealand conditions, proving once again why they’re genuine contenders in 2025.
If their Origin stars return unscathed — Lindsay Collins, Spencer Leniu, Connor Watson, Rob Toia, and Angus Crichton — the Roosters will be close to full strength and ready to make a serious statement against one of the competition’s most consistent sides.
Salesi Foketi and Egan Butcher move back to the bench after starting last week, while Dom Young is listed as 18th man. Benaiah Ioelu and Makahesi Makatoa drop to the reserves — but their contributions last week won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
With momentum building on both sides and young talent rising fast, this Sunday’s clash at Allianz Stadium promises fireworks.
Roosters
1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Billy Smith 4. Robert Toia, 5. Mark Nawaqanitawase 6. Sandon Smith 7. Hugo Savala 8. Lindsay Collins. 9. Connor Watson 10. Spencer Leniu 11. Angus Crichton 12. Siua Wong . 13. Victor Radley 14. Zach Dockar-Clay 15. Salesi Foketi 16. Blake Steep. 17. Egan Butcher 18. Dominic Young 19. Taylor Losalu 20. Benaiah Ioelu . 21. Makahesi Makatoa 22. Xavier Va’a 23. Ethan King 24. Chad Townsend
Out: Dominic Young, Makahesi Makatoa, Benaiah Ioelu, Xavier Va’a, Taylor Losalu (all to reserve)
In: Robert Toia (centre), Lindsay Collins (front row), Connor Watson (hooker), Spencer Leniu (front row), Angus Crichton (second row)
Changes: Mark Nawaqanitawase (centre to wing), Dominic Young (wing to bench), Salesi Foketi (front row to bench), Egan Butcher (second row to bench)
Pattie Gets His Shot as Raiders Reload for Roosters Clash
After patiently biding his time from the bench across the opening 12 rounds, Owen Pattie will finally get his chance to shine from the opening whistle as the Raiders prepare for a blockbuster showdown against the Roosters. The rising hooker steps into the starting role in place of Tom Starling, who will serve a one-week suspension.
It’s a well-earned opportunity for Pattie, whose energy and reliability off the bench have not gone unnoticed by coach Ricky Stuart. And he won’t be the only fresh face rejoining the fight.
Representative back-rower Hudson Young returns to the starting side after missing last week’s gritty win over the Warriors due to Origin duties. His inclusion pushes the versatile Simi Sasagi back to the bench, while young forward Noah Martin drops out of the 17.
In a notable addition, veteran hooker Danny Levi has been named on the interchange, marking his first NRL appearance of the season — a steadying presence to support Pattie in the middle if needed.
With key reinforcements returning and a golden opportunity for one of their young guns, the Raiders head into Sunday’s clash with renewed depth and quiet confidence.
Raiders
1. Kaeo Weekes 2. Savelio Tamale 3. Matthew Timoko 4. Sebastian Kris. 5. Xavier Savage 6. Ethan Strange 7. Jamal Fogarty 8. Corey Horsburgh. 9. Owen Pattie 10. Joseph Tapine 11. Hudson Young 12. Zac Hosking. 13. Morgan Smithies 14. Danny Levi 15. Simi Sasagi 16. Josh Papali’i 17. Ata Mariota. 18. Noah Martin 19. Trey Mooney 20. Jed Stuart 21. Pasami Saulo 22. Ethan Sanders
Out: Tom Starling (hooker), Noah Martin (bench to reserve)
In: Hudson Young (second row), Danny Levi (bench)
Changes: Simi Sasagi (second row to bench), Owen Pattie (bench to hooker)
Key Stats
The Roosters have won only one of their four games at Allianz Stadium this season.
The Raiders have won three of their past four games against the Roosters.
Roosters fullback James Tedesco has scored six tries in his last seven games against the Raiders.
Raiders prop Josh Papalii will equal Jason Croker’s club appearance record of 318 games.
Roosters winger Mark Nawaqanitawase has scored six tries in his past four games.
Roosters Eye Another Giant-Killing as Raiders Chase Top Spot
Momentum is a powerful thing in rugby league — and both the Roosters and Raiders have it in spades heading into this Sunday’s mouth-watering clash.
The Roosters turned heads last week with a stunning upset over the high-flying Sharks, producing one of their most complete performances of the season. Missing several Origin stars, it was their youth that stepped up, delivering a spirited 42-16 triumph that signaled the Tricolours might just be turning a corner.
Meanwhile, the Raiders showed they’re not just finals-bound, but genuine contenders for the minor premiership. In greasy conditions across the ditch, they outmuscled the Warriors with a composed and clinical display, climbing to second on the ladder in the process.
This clash at Allianz Stadium has all the ingredients of a thriller — form, firepower, and finals implications. The Raiders will look to roll on, but if last week taught us anything, it’s this: underestimate the Roosters at your peril.
At home, in what looms as a nail-biter, I’m tipping the Roosters to edge it — by a single, precious point.
Referees: Ashley Klein, Touch Judges, Belinda Sharpe, Chris Sutton, Bunker, Chris Butler;
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