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Andrew Johns has forecast a significant upset in round seven, suggesting that the Panthers might stumble in Darwin against the Dolphins—a team that has so far failed to deliver on its potential in 2026.
Following their first defeat of the season and facing a number of key injuries, Johns believes Penrith is vulnerable in the sweltering conditions of the Top End, where they are set to face the Dolphins on Friday night.
With young centre Casey McLean (suspended) and representative forward Liam Martin (knee injury) both unavailable, coach Ivan Cleary is scrambling to find the right combinations. Johns thinks this situation leaves the Panthers exposed.
Nine commentator Andrew Johns shows his skills with the Steeden. Getty
“I predict a massive upset. I believe it could be the biggest shock of the season thus far, with the Dolphins coming out on top,” Johns commented on Wide World of Sports’ Freddy and the Eighth’s Tips.
“Their bench appears a bit thin when considering the heat and humidity; they’ll need to heavily rely on their substitutes.”
“With the Dolphins having just had a bye, I reckon they stand a good chance to win.”
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast a scorching maximum temperature of 33 degrees in Darwin on Friday, with possible showers and storms adding to the steamy atmosphere.
While the Dolphins are coming off a bye, their form this season has left much to be desired, managing only two victories from five matches.
Currently, they find themselves in 12th position on the ladder following a tense 18-14 win against local rivals, the Titans, just before their round six bye.
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Brad Fittler, on the other hand, remains sceptical about the Dolphins’ capabilities in toppling one of the league’s giants, arguing that they have struggled to adapt to the evolving game this season.
“I question their attacking prowess,” Fittler expressed during Freddy and the Eighth’s Tips.
“Katoa hasn’t seemed to adjust, and I don’t see their squad adapting either. Last year, they were the top try-scorers, but now they’re languishing in 14th place, showing a decline in their game.”
“I’m backing the Panthers to bounce back.”
Check out the current standings and round seven predictions from all Nine’s esteemed tipsters below!
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