NRL Super Saturday begins later this week with the traditional Anzac Day clash between the Dragons and Roosters opening proceedings. In a tumultuous week for the Dragons, many will be watching how this team responds to the recent departure of their coach. The Roosters have quietly been going about their business but still long for consistency over 80 minutes. It sets the stage for an exciting contest and one that shouldn’t be missed. We break it all down below!
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Dragons vs Roosters Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 8 2026
From bad to worse
Everything which could’ve gone wrong for the Dragons, did, in their 30-12 loss to the Rabbitohs at home. They had a player sent off, had just 46% possession and completed at 76%, while allowing 10.1m per carry and missing 32 tackles. It led to the eventual departure of Flanagan as coach and now, a new direction for the struggling club. Winless to start the season, interim coach Dean Young has more than a point to prove if he wants this job long term. Interestingly, he has already introduced a host of changes, starting with the inclusion of youngster Kade Reed at halfback. The bounce-back factor remains an interesting watch for this team in a big week of NRL action.
In second gear until it mattered
The Roosters were found wanting in their first half against the Knights last week. Jumping to an early lead, they eventually trailed 24-12 at HT. They kicked into another gear in the second half and on the back of some strong defensive efforts, managed to keep their opponents scoreless. They built pressure via possession (56%) and had a strong enough completion rate (75%) to complement their 9.4m per carry and 590 PCM’s. If that were the standard set for the entire 80 minutes, there was no limit to the number of points they could have scored. Unfortunately, playing for 80 minutes has been an issue the Roosters have encountered throughout 2026, and it must be fixed should they wish to compete with the contending teams in the competition.
Stats that matter
- The Roosters have won 4 of the last 5 games against the Dragons and 8 of the past 10 ANZAC Day matches. In the past 5 games between these two sides the average margin of victory is 21.8 points (21.4 points on ANZAC Day) and an average total of 59.4 points (53 points on ANZAC Day).
- The Dragons have a horrendous record at this ground, winning just 38% of matches here compared to the Roosters 63%.
- The Roosters are the superior team on both sides of the ball this season. They score 25ppg in attack but concede 27ppg. The Dragons are far worse though, scoring just 14ppg in attack and conceding 29ppg defensively.
The Dragons need a miracle
There is no doubt that the change at the club at the beginning of the week will be a catalyst for change at the Dragons. Such are their shortcomings however, they will need a lot more to go right in this contest if they are to overturn the expected result in this contest. The Roosters shortcomings cannot be overlooked either. Despite being the superior team in majority of their contests this year, they are yet to compete to the standard which the talent of their squad suggests they can reach. Much like the Dragons need to do more, a lot would have to go wrong for the Roosters to play poorly for an extended period and lose this contest. It brings the line into play. Blowout victories have become a normal occurrence in the NRL recently but with the Dragons squad out to please a new coach, you can expect that this team will want to produce a strong performance. They’re on notice and to some extent, are playing for their future. The moment of the contest may also keep in closer than expected, offering more value for your investment.
Dragons +17.5
$1.90 (1.5 units)
Dragons vs Roosters Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Tedesco to score – his form so far in 2026 has again been superb. This should be no different in Round 8 and he enjoys playing against the Dragons. He has 6 tries in his past 5 games against them.
Leg 2 = Tupou to score – also performing well this season, Tupou has 4 tries from his past 5 games. Like Tedesco, he also features heavily in these fixtures, with 3 tries in as many matches against the Dragons.
Leg 3 = Walker to score – he has won MOM honours in the past two ANZAC Day fixtures, and he will want to have a large impact on this contest also. Expect him to either take the line on or loom up in support on a break down the field.
SGM Odds = $7.00 at Dabble
Dragons vs Roosters Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Saturday 25th April
Location: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Time: 4pm (AEST)
Odds: Dragons $5.20 vs Roosters $1.17
Line: +17.5
Points: 52.5
Where to Watch Dragons vs Roosters
Watch the Anzac Day match live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
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