The second and final game in the NRL Saturday heads to the Gold Coast with the Titans hosting the Dragons. Both sides finished outside the Top 8 last year and will want to quickly turn around their poor form. Much has been written about the recruitment (or lack thereof) and what changes can be expected. Fact is, both underachieved last season and have several players in their squad which were underperforming. This match offers the perfect opportunity to turn their fortunes around and get their 2024 campaign off to the right start.
Better yet, Before You Bet is here to guide you through a look at this exciting NRL match and hopefully find you a winner.
Also, if you’re new to sports betting or betting on the NRL, check out the following articles to help build your knowledge:
- Guide to Betting on the NRL
- Where to Bet on the NRL
- Factors to Consider When Betting on the NRL
NRL Round 1 Preview & Betting Tips
Gold Coast Titans vs St George-Illawarra Dragons
Cbus Super Stadium, Saturday 9th March, 7:30pm (AEST)
Match Preview
Each team is an intriguing watch to start the 2024 season; they have experienced, Premiership-winning coaches at the helm that will be out to prove a point. Hasler and Flanagan will make sure structure is embedded in their teams as well as making their squad fit for matches. Where that leaves them to start the season is unknown. The trial form of each was mixed; many have both struggling this season and the Dragons are towards the top of the ‘Most Losses’ market. Each team has underachieved in recent years and their fans will be hoping for a reversal of fortunes.
Match Prediction
There is a lot of uncertainty around how this contest will play out. The Titans are listed as favourites ($1.49 vs $2.65), and this could be impacted by where the game is played; the home team has won the past 4 meetings between these two sides. They will have to do it the hard way though with Campbell at Fullback and Fifita in their pack. Both are key contributors to the success of their team and will be missed. The Dragons are near on full-strength and while they are still working out some combinations, their team is strong enough to compete with their opponents.
The odds should be far closer than they are. For that reason, it is worth considering the line (5.5 points) which is being offered towards the Dragons. Recent history suggests a high scoring contest too; the average points total is 47.6 points, while the average margin is 12.4 points. This is yet another case of watch rather than act. If you need to have a bet, think about the two markets mentioned. Otherwise, it is better to see what each team is offering to begin the year.
Total Points Over 42.5
$1.90 (1 Unit)
Same Game Multi
The first option is discussed above; this contest will be far closer than most are expecting. As for the two try scoring options, they lead their respective clubs last year. They are on the wing and are dynamic runners of the ball who can finish a sweeping backline movement. The shift of Lomax to the wing is interesting too; it may not be his preference, but it could be a progression towards playing fullback.
Leg 1: Dragons +5.5
Leg 2: Khan-Pereira to Score
Leg 3: Lomax to Score
SGM Odds: $8 at Ladbrokes
