Canterbury Bulldogs vs St George Illawarra Dragons Prediction – Round 20 2025

The Canterbury Bulldogs can strengthen their hold on a top four spot when they meet the St. George Illawarra Dragons at Accor Stadium on Saturday evening.

Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo has made what could be a season-defining call for his side as the run-in towards finals ramps up, dumping departing halfback Toby Sexton in favour of young gun Lachlan Galvin.

This major change comes after the Dogs claimed their 12th win of the season, keeping them in third spot. The new halves combo of Matt Burton and Galvin will have its first chance to gel against St. George Illawarra, who are coming off consecutive defeats.

Despite showcasing some attacking flair, the Dragons were unable to pair it with solid defence in last week’s 31-24 loss to the Roosters, which significantly damaged their finals hopes.

On the team front, Stephen Crichton and Kurt Mann are back for the Bulldogs, although they lose Bronson Xerri. Meanwhile, there are no changes made to the Dragons’ 17 from last week.

 

Bulldogs vs Dragons Prediction and Betting Tips

 

Head-to-Head Prediction

The Bulldogs snapped their mini losing streak with a gusty win up north last week and now turn their attention to the Dragons as they look to sure up their position in the top four.

St George on the other hand have been left in the lurch after getting cooked by the Chooks last start and need to bounce back ASAP if playing finals footy is something they want to achieve this season.

Unfortunately for the Red V, this game really isn’t the rebound opportunity they were looking for. The Bulldogs, at home, with all their Origin stars back on board? It’s not exactly the Titans at Kogarah, is it?

Betting tip: Canterbury Bulldogs.

 

First Try Scorer Prediction

After making his debut last week and scoring, we’re throwing our support behind rookie Bulldogs’ winger Jethro Rinakama in the first try scorer market.

In five of St. George Illawarra's last six away matches, the opposition's starting left wing has scored at least one try and that’s where young Rinakama will be lining up for this one.

Betting tip: Jethro Rinakama.

 

Over/Under Prediction

As we’ve stated in previous previews, The Bulldogs sustained success this season has been built on their defence. They continually drag opposition sides into low scoring scraps and more often than not, out muscle them.

That’s why it’s no surprise that each of Canterbury's last five matches have gone under the total match points line and we’re tipping that number to click over to six here.

Betting tip: Under total match points.

 

Bulldogs vs Dragons Teams

 

Canterbury Bulldogs Team List

1. Connor Tracey

2. Jacob Kiraz

3. Enari Tuala

4. Stephen Crichton

5. Jethro Rinakama

6. Matt Burton

7. Lachlan Galvin

8. Max King

9. Reed Mahoney

10. Samuel Hughes

11. Viliame Kikau

12. Jacob Preston

13. Jaeman Salmon

14. Kurt Mann

15. Harry Hayes

16. Josh Curran

17. Bailey Hayward

 

St George Illawarra Dragons Team List

1. Clinton Gutherson

2. Tyrell Sloan

3. Moses Suli

4. Valentine Holmes

5. Sione Finau

6. Lyhkan King-Togia

7. Kyle Flanagan

8. Emre Guler

9. Damien Cook

10. David Klemmer

11. Luciano Leilua

12. Jaydn Su'A

13. Jack de Belin

14. Jacob Liddle

15. Blake Lawrie

16. Hamish Stewart

17. Michael Molo

 

Bulldogs vs Dragons Match Details

 

Date: Saturday, July 19, 2025.

Kick-off: 5:30pm AEST.

Location: Accor Stadium, Sydney.