The New Zealand Warriors are now favored to secure the minor premiership, thanks to two upcoming home games after the Sydney Roosters' weekend loss.
The Warriors, Roosters, and Panthers are in a tight competition for the minor premiership with just two weeks left in the season.
With only 16 games left, the Dolphins, Sharks, and Knights have clinched playoff spots, while the Rabbitohs, Cowboys, Bulldogs, and Sea Eagles still have a chance to claim the final two spots in the top eight.
Looking further down the standings, the Dragons are nearly certain to receive their first wooden spoon, while the Storm and Raiders, who both lost over the weekend, have seen their playoff aspirations dashed.
As the season approaches its conclusion, this week's issue of The NRL run home breaks down the current standings and what each team needs to ensure a successful finish.
Brisbane Broncos lost to Melbourne Storm; Manly Sea Eagles overcame St George Illawarra Dragons; Penrith Panthers triumphed over Canterbury Bulldogs; Gold Coast Titans were defeated by South Sydney Rabbitohs; Sydney Roosters won against The Dolphins; North Queensland Cowboys beat Wests Tigers; New Zealand Warriors prevailed over Newcastle Knights; and Parramatta Eels fell to Cronulla Sharks.
Current standing: 1st, 38 points, +295
Remaining byes: 0
Future matches:
Round 26: Newcastle Knights (home)
Round 27: Manly Sea Eagles (home)
The Warriors secured an important victory against the Rabbitohs recently and are peaking at the right moment.
Additionally, the Panthers suffered a loss in Round 24, and the Roosters turned in their poorest performance of the season against the Tigers on Sunday.