Match Analysis: St George Illawarra Dragons vs Canberra Raiders – Prediction
Match Details
- Date: 2025-08-02
- Time: 7:30 AM UTC
- Location: Not specified (likely GIO Stadium, Canberra)
Game Overview
The upcoming NRL match between St George Illawarra Dragons and Canberra Raiders is set to be competitive, with Canberra showing recent strong form evidenced by their Round 18 victory over the Dragons (28-24). The Raiders have been able to maintain possession well and apply pressure defensively, with solid tackle statistics and effective run meters. Injuries have affected both sides, but the Raiders seem comparatively less impacted in key positions recently.
Key Factors to Consider
- In their last head-to-head, Canberra Raiders narrowly defeated St George Illawarra Dragons 28-24, showcasing superior run meters (1777 vs 1506) and fewer errors (9 vs 12). Raiders have a better completion rate (30 complete sets vs 24) indicating stronger control of possession. However, Dragons have a physical edge with more tackles (354 vs 333) suggesting tight defense.
- Recent encounter from Round 18 in July 2025 ended with Canberra Raiders winning by 4 points. Both teams traded tries evenly, but Raiders finished stronger. Historical data suggests Raiders have a slight advantage when playing at home.
- St George Illawarra Dragons are dealing with significant injuries including Hamish Stewart (concussion), Luciano Leilua (quad), Toby Couchman (shoulder), Nathan Lawson (arm), and Christian Tuipulotu (hamstring). Damien Cook has recovered from an ankle knock. Raiders are missing Josh Papalii but have brought in reinforcements on the bench.
- The match will likely be played at GIO Stadium in Canberra, offering home-ground advantage to the Raiders. Weather and pitch conditions are not specified but can influence conditions. Fan presence and team motivation from previous narrow results may fuel a passionate contest.
- Both teams will be motivated for a strong finish in the Telstra Premiership season. Raiders aim to consolidate their form and leverage home advantage after a close win, while Dragons seek to overturn recent setbacks and injury challenges.
Odds and Predictions
| Category | Odds | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | Canberra Raiders: -218, St George Illawarra Dragons: 185, Draw: 2200 | Canberra Raiders | β β β β β 78% |
| Spread | Canberra Raiders: -6.5 -115, St George Illawarra Dragons: 6.5 -115 | Canberra Raiders -6.5 | β β β ββ 65% |
| Over/under | Over: 46.5 -105, Under: 46.5 -125 | Under 46.5 | β β β ββ 60% |
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
| Market | EV Pick |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | St George Illawarra Dragons -1% |
| Spread | N/A |
| Over/Under | Under 46.5 8% |
π₯ Best Value Pick: Under 46.5 at 8% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 10% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
The Canberra Raiders are favored to win, driven by home advantage, superior recent performance, and fewer key injuries. A close game is expected but odds favor the Raiders to cover the spread and edge out the Dragons.
Predicted Score: Canberra Raiders 26 – 20 St George Illawarra Dragons