Two weeks have already passed in the NRL season, and the rugby league action has been better than ever. Round 3 begins in Canberra this weekend as the Raiders host the Bulldogs. These two sides are expected to be contending for a spot in the Top 8, ensuring an intense contest, and creating uncertainty as the game approaches. Thankfully, Before You Bet is here to take a detailed look at the contest ahead.
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Raiders vs Bulldogs Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 3 2026
Back to reality
The Raiders came crashing back to earth last week with their humbling 40-6 road loss to the Warriors. Despite scoring first and being level at 6-all at HT, they were overpowered in the second half, conceding 6 tries and limited by a lack of possession (45%). They were unable to being momentum with just a 78% completion rate and let themselves down defensively; they allowed 9.5m per carry, 644 PCM’s, and missed 41 tackles. Regardless of the circumstances, they must be better in these areas moving forward if they wish to finish towards the top of the competition ladder.
Time to rest, now to focus
The Bulldogs had the Bye last week following their Golden Point victory over the Dragons in Las Vegas, leaving many to wonder if this is an early season advantage for this team. They were not as clinical as they would’ve liked in their opening match, almost conceding a lead and failing to take more opportunities. With a 52% share of possession, an 80% completion rate, and averaging 9.8m per carry, more was expected from them. Perhaps their inability to capitalise on positive field position or finishing attacking sets with a positive kick can be attributed to early season combinations still forming.
Stats that matter
- The home team has won 3 out of the past 4 matches between these two sides. At this ground, the Raiders have a 59% record compared to the Bulldogs 48%.
- Close games have becoming normal between these two teams with each of the past 5 matches decided by 12-points or less. The average margin of victory is 7.2 points. Interestingly, the average total points is high, with an average of 52.
- The Raiders defence has been an issue to start the season. They have conceded 34ppg in two matches; the Bulldogs have played just the one match but their average of 14ppg in this area matches what they produced last season.
Too close to call
Early in the season, there is little to separate these two sides. The Raiders have shown glimpses of positivity but a poor performance last week and the impact 2 consecutive weeks of travel will have on them remains unknown. On the other side of things, this is also their first home game of the season, and they will want to perform strongly in front of their loyal fans. They are boosted by the return of Papali’i at prop to bolster the power in their forward pack. The Bulldogs have also had travel to contend with, but the Bye last week will ensure they’re fresh for this contest. They were underwhelming against the Dragons, with that performance measured against what the Storm produced last week. They will be tested in this environment and will need their defence to be strong if they’re to cause an upset in this contest. Rather than select a winner though, the safer option appears to be selecting either team to win this game by less than 2 converted tries. History suggests that this is going to be a tight match, and the intensity will only be lifted as each is desperate to get a victory over a potential Top 8 team for later in the season.
Either team by 12 points or less
$1.72 (2 units)
Raiders vs Bulldogs Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Savage to score – a threat on his edge, he has 3 tries from his past 4 matches against the Bulldogs. He already has two tries to his name is 2026 and will again want to have his hands on the ball as much as possible.
Leg 2 = Crichton to score – not a noted try scorer recently, Crichton loves facing the Raiders. He has scored in each of his past 5 matches against them, totalling 6 tries. Expect him to receive plenty of early ball on his edge.
Leg 3 = Preston to score – he has continued his positive play in Vegas and has 3 tries from as many matches against the Raiders. Always adds value to a SGM.
Same Game Multi Odds: $12.21 at Neds
Raiders vs Bulldogs Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Thursday 19th March
Location: GIO Stadium, Canberra
Time: 8pm (AEDT)
Odds: Raiders $1.80 vs Bulldogs $2.02
Line: -1.5
Points: 49.5
Where to Watch Raiders vs Bulldogs
Watch the Raiders vs Bulldogs match live on Channel 9 as well as ad free on Kayo Sports.
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