The second game on NRL Super Saturday heads to Sydney with the Bulldogs hosting the Raiders. Time is quickly running out for both teams to push for a spot in the Top 8 and a loss could be damaging to their 2026 hopes. A win would be the opposite and ignite hope, increasing the importance of such a result in this clash. Before You Bet is here to make sense of the chaos with a comprehensive look and what is ahead in this exciting match.
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.
Bulldogs vs Raiders Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 19 2026
Back to form but time is limited
The Bulldogs would’ve enjoyed their week off last week following a dominant (and impressive) 30-12 road victory over the Titans. Keeping their opponents scoreless until the 52nd minute, only two tries in garbage time narrowed their margin of victory. They appeared to have turned a corner with their stuttering attack. With 53% possession they completed at 75%, running for 9m per carry, making 606 PCM’s, and creating 5 line breaks. They can still improve though, missing 30 tackles in that contest which would otherwise be punished by better quality opponents.
A win, but hardly anything to gloat about
It was an ugly 24-16 home victory for the Raiders against the Dragons in Round 17 as they looked void of answers at different times, on both sides of the ball. Trailing 10-4 at HT, they needed to lift and managed to achieve this. There is no doubt that had they be playing a better-quality opponent, they would’ve been defeated comprehensively. The proof of the inept nature of their performance is in their statistics. With 52% possession, they completed at just 70% and had just 1 line break. With strong attacking momentum generated by their carries (9.9m), they failed to convert this dominance into points; this problem has plagued them all season long.
Stats that matter
- The Round 3 game in Canberra was won 14-10 by the Bulldogs. Despite the Bulldogs winning the past 3 games between these two sides, the Raiders have won 9 out of the past 12. Both teams also have a positive record at this ground (Bulldogs 54% vs Raiders 62%).
- Tight games have become the norm between these two teams. The average margin of victory in the past 5 games is just 7.2 points, with all decided by less than 12 points. The average total points is also low, with the average in the same number of matches sitting at 44 points.
- The Raiders have the superior defensive record in 2026 but only just, averaging 19ppg compared to the Bulldogs 18ppg. The Bulldogs have the better defensive record, allowing 23ppg compared to the Raiders 26ppg.
Form is key in this close contest
It has been a tough few weeks for the Raiders and despite winning last week, that is their only victory in their past 4 matches. They were unconvincing in that performing, casting further doubt over their credentials in this game. The Bulldogs have hardly managed the same standard as previous season, but they have looked more dynamic in attack since moving Crichton to 5/8. Interestingly, their defensive structure has also improved. The confidence appears to be circulating through the rest of the squad on both sides of the ball. This places them in a strong position to continue their winning streak, while the inconsistency within the Raiders team leaves little confidence in what they can produce. At their best, they can be one of the sturdiest teams in the competition. With an average losing margin of 16 points (Bulldogs average winning margin is 7.5), the home team should win by move that a converted try to cover the narrow line which is on offer.
Bulldogs -4.5
$1.90 (2 units)
Bulldogs vs Raiders Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Either team by 12 points or less – see above for justification.
Leg 2 = Total points under 45.5 – see above for justification.
Leg 3 = Preston to score – despite only scoring once in his past 5 matches, Preston enjoys playing the Bulldogs. He has 5 tries from as many matches against the Raiders and will again be a threat on the edge.
Bulldogs vs Raiders Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Saturday 11th July
Location: Accor Stadium, Sydney
Time: 5:30pm (AEST)
Odds: Bulldogs $1.55 vs Raiders $2.45
Line: -4.5
Points: 45.5
Where to Watch Bulldogs vs Raiders
Watch the Bulldogs 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.
