The second NRL game on Friday is an intriguing contest in Sydney, with the Bulldogs hosting the Roosters. Built on a nasty rivalry spanning the past 20 or so years, neither will want to give anything away to their opponents. As the competition leaders, the Bulldogs will not want to drop this match, meanwhile, the Roosters will want to make a statement with a victory.
It's an intriguing contest and Scooby has provided his preview, best bet, and Same Game Multi below, with odds courtesy of Ladbrokes. If you don’t already have an account, you can join Ladbrokes via this link to follow our expert NRL tips across the 2025 season.
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs vs Sydney Roosters
Odds: Bulldogs $1.40 vs Roosters $3
Match Preview
The Bulldogs produced an impressive display last week to defeat the Raiders 32-20 in Canberra. Finding themselves down 20-nil at HT, many were already questioning the capabilities of this team. That was quickly silenced as they scored 3 tries on in the first 10 minutes of the second half to set a platform to run away with the result. The fact that they did this with an inferior completion rate (75%) and only slightly more possession (51%) highlights their attacking ability. They were strong running the ball, averaging 10.2m per carry and making 8 line breaks.
The Roosters enjoyed a week off last week following their Round 9 36-26 victory over the Dolphins at Magic Round. 3 late tries flattered their opponents with 14 minutes remaining; the Roosters played well and were always in control of the result in a dazzling 7-try display. Having 54% possession and a 79% completion rate aided their cause, as did running for 9.4m per carry, making 669 PCM’s and 8 line breaks. They were strong defensively also, missing just 25 tackles.
The Bulldogs are the competition leaders for a reason but beware how much last week may have taken out of them; fatigue when chasing points on a short turnaround is often overlooked. They have proven themselves capable this season and should be able to rise about that, especially with a Bye on the horizon. The Roosters have performed well in their past two matches but have their shortcomings; they are conceding far too many points this year (27ppg). It far outweighs their attack (22ppg), whereas the Bulldogs are far superior in both areas (attack – 27ppg & defence 15ppg).
The team news does sway momentum towards the Roosters; Collins’ return to the forward pack could expose their opponents’ omissions in this area. There is a history of tight matches between these two sides – the average margin of victory is 6.6 points in the past 5 matches - and with the home side being the preferred selection, it is best to combine the two to your advantage. The defensive structure of the Bulldogs should hold up for this contest and show the Roosters what is needed if they wish to compete with the contending teams in 2025.
Bulldogs 1-12
$2.85 (1.5 units)
Same Game Multi
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Leg 1: Total Points Under 44.5 – the average total in the past 5 matches is 41 points. The defensive record of the Bulldogs should keep things tight also, with the Roosters aiming to match them in this area.
Leg 2: Xerri to score – he is the equal leading try scorer for the Bulldogs with 5 for the season and is an attacking threat close to the line. Watch for him to run a great line, confusing defenders, and putting himself in a strong position to score.
Leg 3: Kiraz to score – he is benefitting from playing outside Crichton and will again be in this position to succeed. Despite missing the first half of the season, his try tally has already climbed to 4 for the season.
