The Warriors and Dragons head into their clash in Wellington knowing a top eight spot is up for grabs. The Dragons ended their losing streak with a less-than-comprehensive victory over last-placed Newcastle, while the Warriors have slumped to three consecutive losses to fall out of the eight. The Warriors need to produce in the absence of Shaun Johnson, while the Dragons will again rely on halves Gareth Widdop and Benji Marshall.

2. Can the Sharks do it again?

Upset in Townsville: The Cronulla Sharks. Photo: Getty Images

Cronulla beat the Johnathan Thurston-less Cowboys 24-18 in round 16. The Cowboys will be a much different proposition with Thurston playing this time around. While the Sharks have quietly moved to fifth spot, there is still some doubt over their premiership credentials, despite beating the Roosters twice and South Sydney. A win will guarantee them a top eight spot, while it could keep their slight hopes of a top four spot ajar.

3. The local Darwin derby

Returning: Parramatta's Corey Norman. Photo: Getty Images

They may be the closest of Western Sydney rivals, but Penrith and Parramatta will clash in the local derby in Darwin as part of the Eels' agreement with the Northern Territory government.  The Panthers have been brave despite an unmatched casualty ward, while the Eels were poor against the Titans. While a finals spot is out of the question, both sides need wins to avoid the wooden spoon. The return of Corey Norman could be enough to spark the Eels.

4. The Storm need some points

Leading the way: Cameron Smith. Photo: Getty Images

A month ago the Storm looked destined to compete for a top four spot. Now they need to win to keep their top eight place. They have a golden opportunity to run in a few points against a Gold Coast side battling to avoid the spoon. The Storm have not had the same combinations since Billy Slater was injured and will be hurting from a shock last-start loss to the Tigers. Expect Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk to continue the Titans' heartache.

5. Can Danny lift the Knights?

In charge: Knights coach Danny Buderus. Photo: Getty Images

Danny Buderus returns to Newcastle for the first time as head coach. His elevation to coach has given the Knights faithful something to cheer about, although the joy was shortlived when they were overpowered by St George Illawarra. Playing in front a home crowd could be exactly what the Knights need – however, they are doing it against an impressive Roosters side. The Roosters camp are aware of the home crowd factor and have spoken about it this week.

6. The Blake Austin Cup

Great form: Blake Austin. Photo: Rohan Thomson

Few players have improved as much as Blake Austin this season. He will have another chance to show just how much the Tigers will rue letting him go when he squares off against his former club on Monday night. The Raiders have been rocked by injury to two of their best players in Josh Hodgson and Iosia Soliola as they continue their push for a top eight spot.