Ahead of the Dragons' crucial match against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs on Monday, we have taken a look at five things to keep in mind as the Dragons look to snap their losing streak.
Will they or wont they
One of the biggest talking points following every State of Origin game is whether or not the players will back-up in club land. That statement certainly rings true with four players potentially backing up from Game One on Monday.
St George Illawarra stars Paul Vaughan, Tyson Frizell and Ben Hunt all played big roles in Wednesday’s series-opener while Bulldogs forward Dylan Napa also featured. Though with it being the last match of the round, the players essentially have a five-day turnaround before the game – a regular occurrence during the season.
Normy's back!
Dragons fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing star playmaker Corey Norman is back after he suffered a broken cheekbone in Round 8. Norman played a pivotal role in the Dragons' four wins this season and particular starred in the Red V's Round 5 clash with the Bulldogs.
Norman ran for over 100 metres during the 40-4 victory and produced two line break assists and two try assists including a stunning team try finished by Ben Hunt late in the game. Keep an eye on Norman to see what impact he has on his return to first grade.
Team list headache
Doubts hanging over Origin stars and a growing injury list have once again forced the Dragons to reshuffle their line up.
Long-term injuries to both James Graham and Tim Lafai means there are a whole heap of potential changes to look out for, keeping in mind Vaughan, Hunt and Frizell have been named in the reserves.
Young forward Lachlan Timm remains a chance to make his NRL debut off the bench.
ANZ record
There is no doubt some stadiums provide teams with extra confidence. The Dragons' record at WIN Stadium is a testament to this given they have won six of their past seven matches there.
But the same cannot be said when the Dragons travel to ANZ Stadium. The Dragons have lost six of their past seven appearances there, a stat they will be determined to turn around on Monday.
Snap the losing streak
As the competition moves forward into the second half of the season, earning two competition points after each game becomes more valuable.
The Bulldogs have won just three matches this year meaning they sit at last place on the ladder. The Dragons are also searching to end a five-game losing streak. Both sides will be looking to turn their seasons around with a confident victory.
