NRL action begins this weekend with an exciting fixture in Sydney as the Tigers host the Raiders. There is everything to play for as these two sides currently experience vastly different levels of success. The resurgence of the Tigers ensures that this ground will be packed with passionate supporters, and a great atmosphere is sure to be created at a wonderful suburban ground. Before You Bet is here to help guide you through also, with a detailed preview of what is ahead.
Also, Before You Bet will be providing free previews and betting tips for EVERY game in the 2026 NRL season, so make sure to head over to our NRL Tips regularly to keep up to date with all of our free content.
Tigers vs Raiders Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 8 2026
The loss they needed to have
Everything was looking positive for the Tigers of late but a recent home loss to an injury plagued Broncos team has given them a reality check at the right time. Trailing for majority of the match, their fate was sealed via a field goal with time ticking away. They need look no further than their inferior completion rate (74%) which meant they were ineffective with 54% possession. They also made more metres (9.5m per carry), had significantly more PCM’s (611), and more line breaks (6). It just wasn’t their night, but it should motivate them to continue to improve moving forward.
Spirited and tough; the old Raiders returned
It had all the hallmarks of a titanic battle against the Storm in Canberra last week. The Raiders put a few rough matches behind them early in the season to produce a gritty 26-22 victory over their struggling opponent. It could’ve easily gone the other way too had the home side been ‘off’. Trailing at HT, they relied upon poise (86% completion rate) and possession (53%) to work their way back into the contest. They ran strongly (10m per carry), dominated the PCM’s (628), and made 8 line breaks to pile defensive pressure on their opponents. The challenge ahead is maintaining this standard of execution which is undoubtedly present.
Stats that matter
- The Tigers have won just 1 of the past 11 matches against the Raiders. It is likely why they also have an inferior record at this ground compared to their opponents (56% vs 67%).
- The average margin of victory in the past 5 matches between these two sides is 13.2 points. Interestingly, they have been relatively low scoring contests (compared to one outlier); the average total margin in the same games is 43.6 points.
- The Tigers have an edge of the Raiders so far in 2026. They score 29ppg, the same total the Raiders concede defensively. The Tigers allow just 188ppg compared to the Raiders 25ppg.
A close call
It is surprising to see the disparity between these two sides in the odds, as well as the line. The Tigers are coming off a tough match, with one day less to prepare for this contest. There is also a shake-up in their backline, with coach Marshall searching for greater consistency in his edge defence; To’a and Laulilii hardly off that and you can expect it to be exposed. While the Raiders are doing a lot wrong, their gritty determination gives them a chance of winning this contest. The Tigers are expected to receive a boost by playing this game at Leichhardt but that holds no fear for the Raiders. The loss of Papalii hurts them in the middle but they have plenty of capable forwards to fill the void. They are not as far away from their opponents as the odds suggest. As such, the play in this game is to use the line to your advantage and home for a close contest if the home side are victorious. If that isn’t the case, you have a safer buffer zone to enjoy this match with.
Raiders +6.5
$1.90 (2 units)
Tigers vs Raiders Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points under 49.5 – see above for justification.
Leg 2 = Either team by 10.5 points – a safer option than the ‘Suggested Bet’ with the aim of increasing value to the investment.
Leg 3 = Strange to score – scoring in his past 3 matches, Strange like playing the Tigers, crossing in 3 of his past 4 games against them. When he is form, he is a man to follow, and he will want to have a strong influence of this game.
SGM Odds = $10.29 at Dabble
Tigers vs Raiders Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Thursday 23rd April
Location: Leichhardt Oval, Sydney
Time: 7:50pm (AEST)
Odds: Tigers $1.48 vs Raiders $2.65
Line: -6.5
Points: 49.5 points
Where to Watch Tigers vs Raiders
Watch the Tigers vs Raiders match live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
Tail our 2026 NRL Tips at Dabble!
Not familiar with Dabble or want to learn more? Check out our full Dabble review here, or by clicking the banner below.
