AS we put 26 rounds of the NRL in our rearview mirror we turn our attention to the last round of the season proper. At this point, anything and everything can happen!

The NRL’s dream scenario. There are 3 games this final round that have zero bearing on the semi-finals scramble. Dragons v Penrith, Titans v Tigers, and the Eels v Knights. The other 5 games have a distinct microscope upon them.

After winning their first minor premiership since 1990, the Raiders are sweet, and will more than likely rest their players. Same goes for Melbourne against the Broncos, and the Bulldogs against the Sharks. They’re all safe in the top 3. But then it gets curious.

If Melbourne rest players, that gives Brisbane a golden opportunity to cement the much-coveted 4th spot. Which means two bites of the cherry.

If Brisbane lose then the Sharks, playing against an undermanned Bulldogs, could claim 4th. Or if Brisbane and Cronulla both go down, and the Warriors beat Manly, they get two cracks. 

At the other end of the final 8 it gets just as perilous. If the Roosters beat Souths, they claim 8th position. If Souths beat the Roosters and the Dolphins beat a Raiders team resting players, by more than 15 points, they’re in.

Upon penning this article, it is not known whether the Panthers will be resting players again this weekend against the Dragons in Wollongong.

If Panthers win, 7th spot is theirs, with a first final opponent likely to be the Warriors or Sharks. If the Panthers don’t win against the Dragons and the Roosters beat Souths, they finish 8th. Meaning they would still more than likely face either of the two teams I’ve just mentioned. Confused? Ha Ha, you’re not alone.

All I do know is that 2025 has been an epic season of fun, thrills, and drama. Throw in some permutations and a dose of machinations and you get a season for the ages. 

MG (random Westie) OAM