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Parramatta Eels vs Cronulla Sharks NRL Betting Tips - Sharks value to cover the line in Round 26

jeremy-darke
Jeremy Darke
Editor
Last updated: Fri 28 Aug 2026 09:06
Cronulla Sharks are in strong scoring form and set to take advantage of Parramatta Eels’ defensive struggles in their upcoming NRL clash. The Eels have allowed nearly 29 points per game this season and continue to falter in keeping opposition at bay, despite promising attack. Cronulla, conversely, average nearly 29 points a game and recently bounced back with a convincing comeback victory. With Sione Katoa in fine try-scoring touch, expect the Sharks to cover the line as 6.5-point favourites and surpass the 28.5 points mark.
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Jeremy Darke 28 Aug 2026
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  • Cronulla tipped to cover as 6.5-point favourites vs Eels
  • Parramatta’s defence allows almost 29 points per game
  • Sione Katoa predicted to score at least one try
cronulla sharks
Cronulla Sharks (Getty Images)

Parramatta Eels vs Cronulla Sharks Verdict


Cronulla rediscovered some form last week and can maintain that when they face Parramatta Eels. The hosts have conceded at least 28 points in their last three games and 28.9 points per game across the season - meaning Cronulla over 28.5 points and to cover the line is tipped.

  • Parramatta have conceded 28+ points in three consecutive games.
  • The Eels are allowing 28.9 points per game this season.
  • Cronulla average28.8 points per game and rank second in the NRL for scoring.
  • Cronulla's average winning margin this season is 22 points.
  • Sione Katoa has scored four tries in his last five games.

Head to Head


Cronulla have won three of the past five meetings with Parramatta, including a 28-18 victory when these teams last met in Round 9 of the 2025 season.

The matchup has generally been competitive, with three of the previous five meetings decided by 10 points or fewer. 

Parramatta Eels Form


Parramatta continue to show enough with the ball to trouble teams, but stopping points at the other end remains their biggest issue.

The Eels have conceded 28, 30 and 34 in their last 3 matches. That defensive record makes it difficult to consistently win games even when Mitchell Moses and the Parramatta attack are creating opportunities.

They started particularly well against the Dolphins last week and led 10-0 before eventually losing 34-16. Once the Dolphins began winning the physical battle and finding space on the edges, Parramatta struggled to contain them.

Cronulla Sharks Form


Cronulla got back into the winners' circle against Gold Coast last weekend, but it took a significant improvement after half-time.

The Sharks trailed 16-8 before scoring 22 consecutive points, with their forwards beginning to dominate and their outside backs taking advantage. Ronaldo Mulitalo and Sione Katoa both scored doubles as Cronulla eventually ran out 30-22 winners.

Cronulla's numbers remain strong despite some inconsistent recent performances. They are averaging 29.2 points across their past five games and have scored 634 points this season compared with Parramatta's 437.

Verdict

The Sharks will beat up the Eels and cover as 6.5-point favourites scoring over 28.5 points. Sione Katoa will score at least one and likely a double.

Best Bet1: Cronulla -6.5 Cronulla -6.5 @10/11 at bet365 - 3 Units
Best Bet2: Cronulla Over 28.5 Team Total @10/11 at dabble - 2 Units
Best Bet3: Sione Katoa Anytime Tryscorer @7/10 at Star Sports - 2 Units
Best Bet4: Sione Katoa 2+ Tries @8/5 at Ken Howells - 1 Unit
Cronulla -6.5
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jeremy-darke
Jeremy Darke

Sports Editor & Betting Analyst • Australian Sports Specialist & Betting Analyst

Jeremy is a freelance journalist who is a true sports activist. A die-hard fan of the NRL all his life and also has a passion for all the major American sports.


From when he was a little fella he has played most sports ranging from rugby, ice hockey, tennis and football, just to name a few. His interest in analytics and statistics helps him find the edge while writing previews and being a regular tipster.

Tipster and presenter on YouTube and a co-founder of The Sports Cap and The Basketball Fix.

You can find Jeremy on Muckrack and LinkedIn.

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