Raiders vs Bulldogs: Round 2 Preview, Team News & Stats | NRL 2024

Raiders vs Bulldogs: Round 2 Preview, Team News & Stats | NRL 2024

March 18, 2026 Carlos Moreno - Sports Editor Sports

Canberra will host the Bulldogs this weekend at GIO Stadium, seeking to rebound from a heavy defeat and rediscover the form that saw them claim the minor premiership last year. The match also marks a significant milestone for Raiders coach Ricky Stuart, who will be taking charge of his 300th game for the club.

The Raiders suffered a 40-6 loss to the Warriors in their last outing, a stark contrast to their opening-round golden point victory. At home, still, they boast a strong record against the Bulldogs, having won five of their past six encounters at GIO Stadium. The return of representative prop Josh Papalii from concussion is a boost to the forward pack, with Papalii set to start in the front row. A late change sees Jed Stuart replace Matt Timoko on the bench.

The Bulldogs, fresh off a bye week following a hard-fought golden point win in Las Vegas against the Dragons, will be looking to build on that momentum. Captain Stephen Crichton’s golden point field goal secured the win in that contest, but the Bulldogs will need a more consistent performance against a Canberra side eager to make amends for their recent loss. Enari Tuala comes into the Bulldogs side at centre, replacing Bronson Xerri, with Sean O’Sullivan added to the extended bench.

The Raiders’ disappointing performance against the Warriors raised questions about their ability to maintain the intensity that carried them through the regular season last year. Whereas they secured the minor premiership, their finals campaign ultimately fell short. This match against the Bulldogs presents an opportunity to re-establish their dominance at home and demonstrate their championship aspirations.

For the Bulldogs, the bye week provided a valuable chance to regroup and prepare for the challenges of facing a team on their home turf. Their victory over the Dragons showcased their resilience and Crichton’s clutch performance, but they will need to address lapses in consistency if they hope to compete with the top teams in the league. The Bulldogs will be aiming to set a positive tone early in the match and avoid falling behind against a fired-up Raiders outfit.

Team News in Detail

Raiders: Josh Papalii’s return is a significant addition to the Raiders’ forward pack, providing much-needed experience and physicality. Morgan Smithies moves to the interchange bench to accommodate Papalii’s return. The late bench change, with Jed Stuart replacing Matt Timoko, adds depth to the Raiders’ options. Owen Pattie remains in the extended squad, providing further cover.

Bulldogs: Enari Tuala’s inclusion in the starting side adds a different dimension to the Bulldogs’ attack. His elevation to the team brings Sean O’Sullivan onto the extended bench, providing coach Cameron Ciraldo with additional options. The Bulldogs will be hoping Tuala can provide a spark in attack and complement the efforts of Crichton and other key players.

Stat Attack: Key Numbers to Watch

  • The Raiders’ historical dominance at GIO Stadium against the Bulldogs suggests they will be confident of securing a victory on home soil.
  • Jacob Preston’s recent attempt-scoring form for the Bulldogs is a positive sign for the team, indicating his ability to contribute in attack.
  • Xavier Savage’s impressive try-scoring record at GIO Stadium highlights his danger in the Raiders’ backline.
  • Stephen Crichton’s strong record against the Raiders suggests he could be a key player for the Bulldogs in this match.
  • Ricky Stuart reaching his 300th game milestone as Raiders coach adds an emotional element to the contest.

Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the official annual of the NRL.

Beyond the team news and statistics, this match carries a broader significance for both clubs. For the Raiders, it’s about restoring pride and demonstrating their ability to bounce back from adversity. For the Bulldogs, it’s about building momentum and establishing themselves as a genuine contender in the competition. The outcome of this match could set the tone for both teams as they navigate the challenges of the season ahead.

Stuart’s milestone adds another layer of intrigue to the contest. Having coached the Raiders for a significant period, he has become synonymous with the club and its success. A victory in his 300th game would be a fitting tribute to his dedication and leadership. However, the Bulldogs will be determined to spoil the occasion and secure a valuable win on the road.

The six-day turnaround for the Raiders following their loss to the Broncos in week one of the finals, as reported earlier in the season, is no longer a factor. This match is an early-season contest, allowing both teams full preparation time. The focus now is on execution and capitalizing on opportunities.