The first NRL game on Friday night heads across to New Zealand as the Warriors host the Dragons. With only 4 games remaining, this is an important clash for a variety of reasons. Both are desperate to build momentum ahead of the Finals and every match holds significance for their run towards this goal. Each will be desperate, and this sets the stage for an exciting contest. Before You Bet is here to help make sense of this fixture amongst the chaos, hopefully finding you a winner or two along the way.
Catch our full preview and NRL betting tips for the clash below and if you’re keen to back in our tips, then simply join Betr via this link!
Warriors vs Dragons Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 24
On shaky ground
The Warriors tried hard last week in horrible conditions but were ultimately defeated 32-14 by the Bulldogs. Their horror injury toll has come at the wrong time of the season, and they are still fighting to find the best combinations within their team. They could do little with a 44% share of possession but tried hard with an 83% completion rate. Making just 7.4m per carry, only 346 PCM’s and 0 line breaks highlight their inferiority in this match. Missing 44 also didn’t help their cause. There is a slight chance they could slip out of the Top 8 should their run of losses continue.
Finally, they get a close one
The Dragons were spirited in their 22-14 victory over the Sharks, rewarded for their persistence this season in close matches. Leading narrowly at HT 16-14, they put in a strong second half to limit their opponents’ opportunities and kept them scoreless. They were terrific with the ball, completing at 88% with a 52% share of possession. Despite only making 7.7m per carry, they managed more PCM’s and more line breaks (4 vs 2). Only missing 22 tackles also helped their cause and kept alive their slim chance of making the Finals.
Stats that matter
-
The Warriors defeated the Dragons 15-14 in Round 10 this season. Despite the close match, the average margin of victory in their past 5 matches is 13.4 points.
-
These two sides have similar attacks, with the Dragons slightly better. They average 22ppg compared to the Warriors 21ppg. The Warriors are stronger in defence, allowing just 20ppg compared to the Dragons 24ppg.
-
Home ground advantage is important and with the Warriors winning 57% of matches here compared to the Dragons 50%, they will be hoping it again gives them an edge.
A close contest ahead
It is surprising to see the Warriors so short in betting markets. Not only have they lost Martin, they have Egan returning from an injury and will need to cover the loss of Capewell too. The return of Boyd clouds further doubt; they appeared inept with him in the halves. While that is harsh given his ability, it is not without evidence at this level; Boyd is yet to establish himself as a premier half which clubs sign him to be. There is little disruption to the Dragons team in preparation for this game and despite having a short turnaround ahead of a trip to New Zealand, they have a high level of confidence following their victory last week. With the line not enough, the value lies within the visitors causing an upset to a team which is slowly seeing their season slip away.
Dragons to Win
$2.45 (1.5 Units)
Warriors vs Dragons Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Either team by 8 points or less – with a close game expected, including this option goes in without question.
Leg 2 = Gutherson to score – he has scored in each of his past 3 games against the Warriors. His contribution is key to the Dragons success also and he will want to lead from the front with action.
Leg 3 = Halasima to score – the powerful running backrower went tryless last week for the first time in 5 games. You cannot keep this damaging runner of the ball away from the action for too long and he will want to stamp his mark on this contest.
SGM Odds = $16 at Dabble
Warriors vs Dragons Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Friday 15th August
Location: Go Media Stadium, Auckland
Time: 6pm (AEST)
Odds: Warriors $1.55 vs Dragons $2.45
Line: -4.5
Points: 42.5
Also, Before You Bet will be providing free previews and betting tips for EVERY game in the 2025 NRL season, so make sure to head over to our NRL Tips regularly to keep up to date with all of our free content.
Where to Watch Warriors vs Dragons
Watch the Warrior vs Dragons match live on Channel 9 as well as ad free on Kayo Sports.
Tail our Warriors vs Dragons Tips at Ladbrokes!
Not familiar with Ladbrokes or want to learn more? Check out our full Ladbrokes review here, or by clicking the banner below.
