NRLW Match Preview: Raiders v Dragons

The Raiders will be looking to prove themselves this Saturday, coming off a string of disappointing losses, including a tough 34-20 loss to the Roosters on Sunday night at Allianz Stadium.

The Dragons have had a similarly tough start to their season, however they will be riding high on confidence after securing a demanding 42-14 win over the Eels last Saturday at CommBank Stadium.

Talking Points

•  The Raiders lineup sees a few changes this week, with Hollie-Mae Dodd out due to suspension and Simaima Taufa and Sereana Naitokatoka out due to concussion protocols.
• Emma Barnes will start at hooker for the first time in her NRLW career, with Chanté Temara to start at lock.
• Jaida Faleono will make her NRLW debut off the bench. Monalisa Soliola and Relna Wuruki-Hosea also return to the team following injury and suspension respectively.
• This Saturday will be the first time that the Canberra Raiders NRLW team play at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, with last year’s matchup between the two sides at WIN Stadium, Wollongong.
• The Canberra Raiders’ defence will need to be wary of fullback Teagan Berry, who has been dangerous in attack this season, scoring six tries in six appearances and crossing for a double last week.

Last Time They Met

The Canberra Raiders defeated the Dragons in a tight 19-18 victory in round four of last season at WIN Stadium, Wollongong.

Key Match-Up

Ashleigh Quinlan v Raecene McGregor

When the Raiders travel to Kogarah this Saturday, all eyes will be on the matchup between the two representative halfbacks, Ashleigh Quinlan and Raecene McGregor.

Quinlan has quickly established herself as a vital team member for the Canberra Raiders, making 68 tackles with an 82.9 percent efficiency, as well as running for 337 total metres this season.

The Canberra halfback has had an impressive career, winning a Touch World Cup for Australia as well as making her Kiwi Ferns debut in the 2023 Pacific Championships.

The Dragons’ captain has had a similarly impressive career, with three NRLW premierships under her belt, as well as representing the Kiwi Ferns since 2017.

This season, McGregor has demonstrated her ability to provide strength defensively, making 73 tackles with 89 percent efficiency, as well as running for 482 total metres.

The clash of these two dynamic halfbacks will be one to watch, as they will be instrumental in the outcome of the match.

Head-to-Head

This will be the second matchup between the two clubs, with the Raiders claiming the only win.