Knights vs Raiders Predictions, Game Preview, Live Stream, Odds & Picks
Visitors Favored in NRL Round 23
Desperation for Raiders
The Canberra Raiders are on the outside looking in and desperately need a win to have a chance of making the playoffs.
NRL odds have the Raiders firm at -300 to win, which isn’t surprising given the Knights’ recent form.
Let’s review the latest Rugby news, stats, injury reports, and Rugby NRL odds for the Knights vs Raiders. We’ve plenty of Rugby picks and predictions for you to consider.
Knights Not Shining
The Knights haven’t lived up to their name because they have played poorly throughout the year.
They enter this clash with four losses from their last five games and the only victory came against the lowly Wests Tigers.
There isn’t much going for the Knights, especially after losing star fullback Kalyn Ponga midway through the year. His loss had a big impact on the success of the Knights, but they’re taking on a Raiders team who could be nervous.
The sportsbook isn’t giving them much chance of winning at +200. Bettors get a double-figure line and it could be there for the taking. Bettors should expect a close game, despite the struggles of the Knights.
Raiders Make Late Charge
The loss to the Panthers two weeks ago could prove costly for the Raiders, who have won four from the last five.
They didn’t fire a shot against the weakened Panthers when losing 26-6, but they came up with the goods against the Dragons last week when it was much-needed.
With wins over the Storm, Warriors, Titans, and Dragons, the Raiders are heading in the right direction. However, with the Roosters sitting in eighth spot, they’ll need to keep winning and get lucky somewhere along the line.
Coach Ricky Stuart is back from his historic one-week ban and he’s remorseful about his poor choice of words.
“I’ve got a great family and I’ve got an absolutely wonderful group of friends, group of mates. I love them even more now,” Stuart told Nine.com.au. “I’ve certainly found that when you’re in a bit of a time of adversity you certainly know who your friends and your supporters are. That’s one thing I’ve learned this week.”
Winning by at least 12 points could be tough for the Raiders, regardless of who they’re playing, so the betting online of 11½ is a risky wager.
Knights vs Raiders Head-to-Head
There is nothing splitting the Knights and Raiders. They have played 42 times since 1998 and it’s a 20-20 split with two draws.
The most recent meeting happened in June and the Raiders scored a narrow 20-18 victory at home. The prior meeting went to the Knights 34-24 at home, so bookmakers have a generous line for the home side.
Knights vs Raiders Game Information
- Game: Knights (6-15) vs Raiders (11-10)
- Location: McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle
- Day/Time: Sunday, Aug. 21, 2:05 a.m. ET
- Knights vs Raiders Live Stream: RugbyPass
Knights vs Raiders Betting Lines
Team | Point Spread | Moneyline | Total |
New Castle Knights | +11½ -115 | +200 | 45½ -120o |
Canberra Raiders | -11½ -125 | +300 | 45½ -120u |
Knights vs Raiders Prediction
There is little doubt that the Raiders are the better team but they’re not worthy of double-digit favorites.
It’s always a close contest between the Knights and Raiders, and we expect another ding-dong battle on Sunday.
We’re not prepared to take the Knights on the moneyline, but lock in the +11½ for a value line.