Showdown Intensifies: Addo-Carr’s Passion Ignites Bulldogs v Dragons Clash; Leilua on Verge of Comeback

The Canterbury Bulldogs aim to bounce back as they host the St George Illawarra Dragons in the NRL Indigenous Round opener. After letting an eight-point lead slip in their loss to the Raiders last weekend, Cameron Ciraldo’s team is determined to deliver a stronger performance.

This match is a crucial opportunity for Origin hopefuls from both teams to make their case for NSW and Queensland selection. Bulldogs’ Matt Burton, Josh Addo-Carr, and Stephen Crichton are in contention for the Blues, while Dragons’ Ben Hunt and Jaydn Su’A are vying for Maroons spots, with Zac Lomax also in the mix for NSW.

The Dragons, coming off a bye during Magic Round, will see Luciano Leilua return from a calf injury. Emotions will run high for St George Illawarra fullback and proud Wiradjuri man Tyrell Sloan as he faces his close friend Josh Addo-Carr, who has mentored him since they met at the Koori Knockout.

**Match: Bulldogs vs Dragons**
**Round 12 – Thursday, May 23rd**

– **Venue:** Accor Stadium, Sydney
– **Bulldogs:** Home Team (11th Position)
– **Dragons:** Away Team (9th Position)

**Match Broadcasters:**
– WatchNRL

**Team Stats and Key Facts:**
– Bulldogs have won seven of their last nine games against the Dragons at Accor Stadium.
– Dragons have only one win in their past six games at Accor Stadium.
– Bulldogs aim for four straight wins at Accor Stadium for the first time since 2016.
– Dragons’ Zac Lomax has kicked two two-point field goals in his last four games.
– Bulldogs’ Josh Addo-Carr has scored 22 tries in 24 games at Accor Stadium.