NRLW Match Preview: Raiders v Dragons

Their match is the second in a triple-header, with the NSW Cup opening the day’s action, followed by the NRL fixture to close out the evening.

After finishing seventh last season, the Raiders are aiming to push into the top four this year. With two new clubs entering the competition, the race to the finals will be more competitive than ever.

Armed with a host of fresh signings, the Raiders are looking sharp and ready to outsmart their opponents in 2025.

The Dragons, who finished ninth last season, will also be hungry for a turnaround. Both teams will be eager to start strong and claim their first points of the season.

The Raiders' line-up has seen some changes from last season, following the departure of Apii Nicholls. Coach Darrin Borthwick has shifted Cheyelle Robins-Reti to fullback, with Leanne Tufuga and Mackenzie Wiki moving into the centres.

Talking Points:

• The Raiders have named six club debutants for this weekend’s clash.
• The Raiders have secured victory in both matches they have played against the Dragons in 2023 and 2024.
• Zahara Temara and Simaima Taufa have been named as co-captains once again to lead the side for the 2025 season.
• Raiders winger Madison Bartlet has crossed for 12 tries in her last 12 NRLW appearances, including scoring a double the last time the Raiders went up against the Dragons.
• Dragons fullback Teagan Berry is one try away from becoming the first player to score 30 tries in the NRLW.
• Last time they met:
• The last time these two sides faced each other, the Raiders secured a close 38-24 victory in round seven last year.

Key Matchup:

Zahara Temara v Raecene McGregor

Both captains bring a wealth of experience and strong leadership to their respective sides. With similar accolades to their names, they are no strangers to hard work and setting the standard on the field.

Temara is a key figure in the Canberra Raiders NRLW line-up, entering her third season with the green machine. Her previous experience with the Roosters has been invaluable and last season she became the first player to reach 40 NRLW games and was crowned the Dally M Five-Eighth of the Year for 2024.

Known for her composure under pressure, Temara expertly controls field position and creates attacking opportunities for her side. Her impact was clear last season where she recorded two tries and six try assists.

McGregor on the other hand adopts a more creative in her playmaking abilities. Her strong attacking flair and precise passing give her the ability to turn a game around quickly. She is a well renowned player having won the coveted Dally M Medal in 2022, and back-to-back premiership titles in her clutch.

These two playmakers are not only captains of their respective sides but also seasoned performers on the international stage. Temara has represented the Jillaroos, New Zealand, and Queensland, showcasing her versatility amongst some of the best players in the game. While McGregor has starred for the Kiwi Ferns in multiple international tournaments.

Saturday’s game will be a showdown between two highly decorated players, each aiming to lead their team to a first win of the season.

Head-to-head:

The Raiders and Dragons have met twice before, with Canberra emerging victorious on both occasions.