Lyon fitness could figure in NRL betting for Manly v Melbourne

The fitness of star utility man Jamie Lyon could influence punters with an eye on Manly Sea Eagles' clash with Melbourne Storm in Friday's NRL qualifying final.

Manly coach Des Hasler said he would give Lyon until the end of the week to prove he has overcome a shoulder injury before making a final decision.

As of Tuesday Manly stood at 2.00 to overcome Melbourne at the Etihad Stadium, compared to 1.98 for a Melbourne victory in what is the tightest qualifying final according to bookmakers.

Betfair are also offering 6.00 on Manly to clinch the title, with Melbourne on the same odds.

However, Hasler has recently said Gold Coast should be the front runners when it comes to picking the NRL premiership favourites.

He told The Herald Sun: "They're playing outstanding footy. They have strike power right across the field and can certainly score points.

"They've got a good work ethic and are all working really hard for each other. No wonder they are competition favourites.''

But according to the bookmakers the finals debutants are by no means ahead of the pack.

NRL betting markets at IASbet and Centrebet and have the Titans out at 11.00 and 13.00 respectively for the Premiership, ahead of only the Newcastle Knights.