The first game on a reduced Round 15 of NRL fixtures is a derby match between two bitter rivals. The Sharks will host the Dragons, with both sides out to improve on recent efforts. Such fixtures always seem to bring the best out in both sides and this game should be no different. NRL fans are about to be treated to a thrilling contest. This is a crucial fixture for both teams and the outcome is set to have a large impact towards the business end of the season.
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Sharks vs Dragons Predictions & Tips: 2025 NRL Round 15
Sharks Need To Find Some Bite
The Sharks have performed horribly in their past two matches, comprehensively beaten in both. The most recent installment was a 40-10 home defeat to the Warriors, an upset loss in a variety of ways. Despite only narrowly trailing 12-10 at HT, they went on to concede five second half tries, while remaining scoreless. They were ineffective with the ball, failing to use their superior possession (51%) or strong completion rate (85%) to their advantage. They were weak defensively, allowing 9.5m per carry and missing 39 tackles. Amazingly, the Sharks still sit in 5th place on the competition ladder.
Dragons Forgetting the Horror Show
The Dragons had a night to forget in their 56-6 dismantling by the Dolphins on the road, their 4th loss in 6 matches. They were poor in conceding 10 tries, coming both sides of HT after trailing 28-2 at HT. Their loss was characterised by poor execution; with just 40% possession, they completed at 78%, ran for just over half of their opponent’s total, allowed 8 line breaks and allowed 9.6m per carry. A dramatic reversal is needed and yet, they on the same competition points as 7th.
Stats That Matter
- The Sharks have won the past 10 matches against the Dragons. The Dragons were last successful against the Sharks in Round 5, 2020. Playing at this ground has also been a struggle for them, with a 32% strike rate compared to the Sharks 58%.
- The Sharks are superior this season on both sides of the ball. They average 23ppg in attack and concede 22ppg defensively compared with the Dragons 21ppg in attack and 25ppg in defence.
- Close games are somewhat expected in rivalry matches but this game suggests otherwise. 3 of the past 5 matches have been decided by 28 points or more at an average of 22.4 points.
Dragons Used as Bait
All signs point towards the Sharks dominating this contest. Not only do they have a strong record, home ground advantage and a superior team, but they will be hungrier following a poor performance last week. The same can be said of the Dragons, but far more must improve should they be able to cause an upset. They are failing to build pressure on their opponents, and it is showing as they are unable to score points. The Sharks are a quality team, and it would be surprising to see an upset loss. Expect a closer game though; the Dragons will be improved and the Sharks wounded.
Sharks 1-12
$3.20 (1.5 Units)
Sharks vs Dragons Same Game Multi
Leg 1: Sharks H2H – This is about keeping the option simple and increasing value in your investment.
Leg 2: Total Points over 41.5 – The average total points is 47.2 in the past 5 matches. While this is below what is offered as the even option, it is again about adding value in a tricky match.
Leg 3: Nikora to score – it has been a few quiet weeks for the damaging edge runner. Expect him to make a statement in this game and add to his season tally of 6, of which he is ranked 3rd for his team in 2025.
Same Game Multi Odds: $4.33 at Dabble
Sharks vs Dragons Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Thursday 5th June
Location: Sharks Stadium, Sydney
Time: 7:50pm (AEST)
Odds: Sharks ($1.32) vs Dragons ($3.40)
Line: Sharks -20.5
Points: 46.5
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Where to Watch Sharks vs Dragons
Watch the Sharks vs Dragons match on Channel 9, as well as live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
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