Get ready for an electrifying start to the 2026 Witzer Pre-Season Challenge! It's a double-header at Jubilee Oval, and the four teams headed to Las Vegas are ready to showcase their skills.
First, we have a thrilling encounter between the Bulldogs and the Cowboys, followed by the Dragons taking on the Knights. But here's where it gets controversial...
The Dragons, last year's runners-up, are determined to claim the top spot this time around. They'll be facing off against the Knights, and the winner will have a chance to prove their mettle before the Vegas showdown.
Stay tuned for all the live action from Round 1 on NRL.com's blog!
Bulldogs vs Cowboys at Jubilee Oval
79th minute: The Bulldogs almost pulled off a stunning comeback! A brilliant carry by Justin Matamua put them in a great position, and Alex Conti's precise pass found Mikey Nassar in the corner. It's a tight four-point game with time ticking away. Bulldogs 30 - Cowboys 34.
76th minute: North Queensland gains some breathing space. A penalty allowed them to march into attacking territory, and Mason Barber capitalized on a disjointed Bulldogs defense. Bulldogs 24 - Cowboys 34.
73rd minute: Canterbury dominated possession, but Liam Sutton's try-saving tackle changed the game. The Bulldogs' subsequent error gave North Queensland an easy way out. Bulldogs 24 - Cowboys 28.
Up Next: Dragons vs Knights
67th minute: The Bulldogs are on a roll! Jope Rauqe scored his team's fifth try after a towering bomb from Joseph Teaupa. Aaymon Fitzgibbon's conversion keeps the game close. Bulldogs 24 - Cowboys 28.
65th minute: Canterbury strikes again! Joseph Teaupa's brilliance set up Louis Grossemy, and the Bulldogs are now within striking distance. Bulldogs 18 - Cowboys 28.
58th minute: The Bulldogs' momentum continues! Cooper Toy finished off a well-executed move, and the game is set for a thrilling finish. Bulldogs 14 - Cowboys 28.
47th minute: Aaymon Fitzgibbon, the youngest player on the field, makes an immediate impact. He gathered a grubber and grounded it, showcasing his talent beyond his years. Bulldogs 10 - Cowboys 28.
Half-Time Analysis
The Cowboys dominated the first half with some big names stepping up. Jake Clifford controlled the game, Robert Derby scored a double, and Heilum Luki, returning from injury, crashed over for a try. The Bulldogs found some late momentum with Justin Matamua's try. Bulldogs 6 - Cowboys 28.
38th minute: The Bulldogs finally get on the board! Justin Matamua's powerful run broke through the Cowboys' defense, and he slammed the ball down. Bulldogs 6 - Cowboys 28.
27th minute: Jake Clifford sets up Kai O'Donnell with a short ball, and the back-rower shows incredible strength to score. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 28.
24th minute: Robert Derby continues his dominant performance with his second try. The Cowboys' slick right-edge move exposed the Bulldogs' defense. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 22.
18th minute: Jaxon Purdue's towering bomb leads to a try for Zac Laybutt. The Cowboys extend their lead. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 16.
16th minute: Robert Derby extends the Cowboys' lead, winning the race to a Jake Clifford grubber. Clifford is proving his worth in the Cowboys' halves. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 10.
10th minute: The Bulldogs successfully challenge an early tackle, but an errant pass ends their attacking opportunity. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 6.
6th minute: Heilum Luki crashes over for the opening try. His return from injury is a boost for the Cowboys, and he'll be crucial for their Vegas trip. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 6.
3rd minute: The first Captain's Challenge goes in favor of North Queensland, and the Cowboys get the first attacking opportunity. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 0.
Late Mail: Bulldogs vs Knights
The Bulldogs make a late change, with Fletcher Baker starting in his Canterbury debut. Daniel Suluka-Fifita drops out, but he's expected to return next week. The Cowboys start with their full squad.
Get ready for an exciting double-header at Jubilee Oval! Who will emerge victorious and head to Las Vegas with confidence? Find out on NRL.com!
