Raiders vs Dragons Predictions, Game Preview, Live Stream, Odds & Picks
Must Win for Both Teams in NRL Round 22
On the Outside Looking In
The Canberra Raiders have fallen to ninth spot on the NRL ladder and they need a win to keep in touch with only three rounds left.
They face the St George Dragons on Sunday and it’s a must-win for both teams, but there is more onus on the Raiders to perform as a -220 favorite with NRL odds.
Let’s review the latest rugby news, stats, injury reports, and rugby NRL odds for Raiders vs Dragons. We’ve plenty of rugby picks and predictions for you to consider.
Raiders Teetering on Edge
There is no such thing as relaxing with the Raiders, who are up against it again following a loss to the weakened Penrith Panthers.
The 26-6 home defeat was a shocking performance from the Raiders. Making matters worse, coach Ricky Stuart had some embarrassing words about a Panthers player, which we’ve never seen before.
It shows the growing frustration with the club, but the focus should be on beating the Dragons, who are having a worse year.
The sportsbook has the Raiders at -5½ and that’s a fair line. They looked good before the loss when beating the Storm, Warriors, and Titans. Getting back to that form is needed and bettors have shown confidence in early betting markets.
The line has been backed into -125, so it could move to -6½ and that’s a key move when betting on rugby league.
Dragons Not Breathing Fire
There was hope when the Dragons beat the Sea Eagles three weeks ago, but after consecutive losses to the Cowboys and Sharks, reality has set in.
The playoffs are unlikely for the Dragons unless they win their last four games and have other teams lose horrifically. It’s another losing year for the struggling franchise, but they’ll want to make some noise in the latter rounds.
Dragons chairman Craig Young hasn’t been happy with players moaning to the media.
“The players that don’t want to stick together, well they’re not part of the team,” Young told Fox Sports.
“The expectation at this club is that when things are tough and we find a way through it, to push through it to the other side. You don’t go whining and moaning, you roll your sleeves up, work hard and get through it. You don’t go and whine to whoever. We all have to stick together.”
It’s not surprising to see the odds favor the Raiders given the off-field drama.
Raiders vs Dragons Head-to-Head
The Raiders and Dragons have played 35 times and the Raiders have the 21-13 edge, including one draw.
The Dragons won 12-10 earlier this year but the Raiders won 20-12 in the previous meeting at home.
There is never much between them in betting online markets.
Raiders vs Dragons Game Information
- Game: Raiders (10-10) vs Dragons (9-11)
- Location: GIO Stadium
- Day/Time: Sunday, Aug. 14, Midnight ET
- Raiders vs Dragons Live Stream: RugbyPass
Raiders vs Dragons Betting Lines
| Team | Point Spread | Moneyline | Total |
| Canberra Raiders | -5½ -125 | -220 | 43½ -120o |
| St George Illawarra Dragons | +5½ -115 | +160 | 43½ -120u |
Raiders vs Dragons Prediction
Bookmakers have framed a tight market because it’s usually a close game. However, with their playoff hopes on the line, the Raiders should come up with the goods.
They are always tough to back with confidence, but given the experienced players on the roster, there are no excuses for a poor showing.
Take the current line before it moves.
