The second match on NRL Super Saturday will head to Wollongong, with a rivalry match between the Dragons and Eels. Always a fiery contest, the Dragons are desperate to return to winning form. The Eels are improving each week and will relish the challenge of performing on the road. It sets the stage for a terrific contest with NRL fans benefitting from an exciting match.
Dragons vs Eels Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 17
Woeful Dragons need to lift
It is dark times for the Dragons, winning just 2 of their past 7 matches. Their current 2-game losing streak was capped off in Round 15 with a draining 30-18 loss to the Sharks. Despite jumping to an 18-6 HT lead, they were unable to hold out their opponents in the second half. Despite an 88% completion rate, they had just 44% possession and averaged fewer metres than their opponents. Their defence was poor, allowing 10.6m per carry, conceding 5 line breaks and missing 35 tackles. Areas like that are impacted by effort and the Dragons must give more to turn around their form.
Climbing the ladder
The Eels were strong in their 36-20 victory at home over the Titans. Heading into this game as outsiders and minus several key players, their younger stars were forced to step up and did so with class. They will be disappointed that they allowed 4 tries and 10.1m per carry. There were positives though, they made 9.6m per carry, 8 line breaks and missed just 20 tackles. There are positive signs that this team is developing a tough, gritty attitude which is making them hard to defeat.
Stats that matter
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Despite a superior record at this ground (60% vs 25%), the Dragons have not won at home against the Eels since Round 16, 2018. The Eels also defeated the Dragons in Round 5, 23-22.
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Both teams are even in defensive records this season, both allowing 25ppg. In attack, the Dragons have a slight edge, averaging 20ppg whereas the Eels trail with 19ppg, but that is rising each week.
Underestimate the Eels at your own risk
While the poor run of form for the Dragons is closer to ending, the Eels are a tricky team which can often be difficult for teams to overcome. Despite a short turnaround and a poor record at this ground, they are over the odds. These two sides should be far closer in betting markets. The Eels are boosted by the return of Brown in the halves also. The Dragons have their own quality players returning but a lot still needs to improve if they are to be successful. Therefore, the preferred selection in this contest is to invest around a close match. The Eels have a gritty resolve defensively which can frustrate teams while somehow managing to score points. The Dragons can produce some special players across 80 minutes but need greater consistency in their game. So, play it safe in this match.
Either Team by 10 points or Less
$1.91 (3 Units)
Dragons vs Eels Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total Points Over 47.5 – the average total in their past 5 matches is 57 points with 3 games of 55, 62 and 84 points.
Leg 2 = Lomax to score – he has scored just two tries for the Eels this season; nevertheless, the Origin experience has improved his form, and he will be out to contribute here.
Leg 3 = Addo-Carr to score – leading the Eels this season with 9 tries, JAC has remained tryless in the past two matches. Expect him to bounce back here, putting himself in the right areas to score.
Dragons vs Eels Betting Odds & Match Info
Location: WIN Stadium, Wollongong
Odds: Dragons $1.67 vs Eels $2.20
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Where to Watch Dragons vs Eels
Watch the Dragons vs Eels match live on and ad free on Kayo Sports.
