The NRL Indigenous Round begins on Thursday night with the Bulldogs hosting the Dragons. In what is always a terrific celebration of a culture which has given so much to the game over the years, fans will enjoy everything this exciting round has to offer. The Bulldogs will be out to bounce back from a loss last week, while the Dragons will be fresh following the Bye. With these teams close to one another on the competition ladder, there is plenty to play for in keeping positive momentum going in their 2024 campaign.
Before You Bet is here to take a detailed look at the action ahead and get your weekend off to a winning start.
NRL Round 12 Preview & Betting Tips
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs vs St George-Illawarra Dragons
Accor Stadium – Thursday 23rd May – 7:50pm (AEST)
Match Preview
The Bulldogs headed into their game against the Raiders at Magic Round as favourites but failed to deliver a victory. After a slow start, they regained control in the first half and headed into HT ahead 14-12. The second half was as close as the first, and after starting well, they allowed too many opportunities to their opponents, which allowed them back into the match. Their inept performance was highlighted by their larger share of possession (55%) but lower completion rate (71%); they were ineffective at building pressure when it mattered. Furthermore, they also lead total metres (10.1m per carry) and line breaks (6). While better, they will want to also reduce their 36 missed tackles.
The Dragons produced a complete performance in their Round 10 28-14 victory over the Rabbitohs; a much-needed victory was arguably one of their best this year. It was highlighted by their ball control (55% possession & 82% completion rate), while they also lead their opponents in every other area, including making 200+ metres more and 100+ more PCM’s. They will want to further improve upon that effort and now need to demonstrate consistency, not only in matches but from week to week.
Match Prediction
Both teams are relatively unchanged from their previous matches, which will deliver consistency and stability to their team. Interestingly, the form of the Bulldogs has seen them installed as favourites for this game ($1.55 vs $2.45) although, the price on offer undervalues the potential of their opponents.
The Dragons have had their moments this season where they have played well; in equal measure, the Bulldogs are not without quality, grit, and determination. With both teams averaging 17ppg in attack, the deciding factor could be defence. The Bulldogs have the edge in this area, averaging 17ppg as opposed to the Dragons 24ppgs.
The visitors are capable but have proven this season that they can leak points in bunches. While not scoring as many points as they would’ve liked in recent weeks, they will take confidence from the fact that their opponents’ defensive structure isn’t as rigid as others they have played against; though, they cannot afford to get complacent. The Dragons can easily come out and cause an upset. They have managed this feat already in 2024 against the Warriors, Sea Eagles and Titans. Even the record at this ground (Bulldogs 54% vs Dragons 44%) is too close for comfort.
With a lot of uncertainty in this contest, the preferred option is to invest around this game being a close contest. 3 of the past 5 matches have been decided by 10 points or less, with the average margin of victory in the past 5 matches sitting at 12 points. This appears the preferred selection, especially with other, more suitable games, of rugby league this weekend to invest upon.
Either Team by 10.5 points or less
$1.90 (2 Units)
Same Game Multi
Each player has scored several times this season for their team. They are not only dangerous with the ball in hand, but will want to make one last push for Origin selection with a strong performance in this contest.
Crichton, Burton & Lomax to Score
SGM Odds: $15 at Ladbrokes (0.5 Units)
