NRL Round 5 expert tips and predictions, plus the burning issues facing teams

Bulldogs fans have been frustrated over a lack of consistency, and they need to start stringing together some wins to prove they’re top-four contenders. And they face a big test against the Cowboys.

NRL Round 5 tips and burning issues

All eyes will be on Joseph Suaalii and the Sydney Roosters following his decision to defect to rugby union.

The same goes for Canberra’s Jack Wighton after his revelation he will test his value on the open market caused a stir among rival clubs.

The pressure remains on Wests Tigers halfback Luke Brooks and St George Illawarra coach Anthony Griffin.

And there are fears a mounting injury toll could derail the Dolphins’ impressive start to their inaugural NRL campaign.

Put simply, it’s creating mayhem for tipsters heading into round 5.

Burning issue: Phil Rothfield

Joseph Suaalii amid a blaze of publicity around his switch to the rah rahs. He’s 19 going on 25 as far as temperament goes but he’s under pressure to prove he’s worth the $5 million Rugby Australia has paid.

Burning issue: Travis Meyn

The Eels have had an insanely tough draw to start the season but are battle-hardened and can make a statement with a win against the Roosters.

Burning issue: Fatima Kdouh

Jack Wighton’s decision to test the open market threatens to be a distraction against Penrith. A loss to the two-time defending premiers will also raise questions about Canberra’s finals credentials after a slow start to the season.

Burning issue: Paul Crawley

Another week of destabilising headlines surrounding Anthony Griffin’s future at the Dragons. However, it will act as motivation for St George Illawarra to upset the injury ravaged Dolphins and deliver an ‘up yours’ to their own board.

Burning issue: Dean Ritchie

This is a big game for the Bulldogs. A lack of consistency over the opening four rounds has frustrated fans. To be a genuine top-four contender, Canterbury needs to string together some solid wins, starting with North Queensland.

Burning issue: Peter Badel

Is the Dolphins’ bubble about to burst? After a flying start, they have been ravaged by injuries and if they can’t beat the struggling Dragons, it could be a long season for Wayne Bennett’s new franchise.

Burning issue: Paul Kent

Melbourne’s start to the season has been indifferent, at best, and many are keen to see how they fare against a genuine premiership contender to gauge where they are.

Burning issue: David Riccio

Old versus the new with Shaun Johnson up against Dally M winner Nicho Hynes in one of the match-ups of the round. Johnson has been solid for the Warriors to start the season, but Hynes was outstanding in his return from injury and should finish on top.

Burning issue: Brent Read

The clock is ticking on Luke Brooks. Surely he needs a big performance against the Broncos this weekend to vindicate the faith shown in him by Tigers coach Tim Sheens.

Originally published as NRL Round 5 expert tips and predictions, plus the burning issues facing teams