Get ready for an exciting start to the 2026 Witzer Pre-Season Challenge! We're kicking things off with a bang as four teams, destined for Las Vegas, showcase their skills in a thrilling double-header at Jubilee Oval.
First up, it's a battle between the Bulldogs and the Cowboys, followed by the Dragons taking on the Knights. But here's where it gets interesting...
The Dragons, last year's Witzer Pre-Season Challenge runners-up, are hungry for a win and will aim to improve on their previous performance before heading to Vegas to face the Bulldogs. Will they succeed in their quest for glory?
Follow every thrilling moment of Round 1 on NRL.com's live blog.
Bulldogs vs Cowboys at Jubilee Oval
79th minute: With just over a minute left, the Bulldogs pull off a stunning comeback! Justin Matamua's powerful carry sets up an attacking opportunity, and Alex Conti's precise pass finds Mikey Nassar in the corner. The Bulldogs narrow the gap to just four points. Bulldogs 30 - Cowboys 34.
76th minute: North Queensland gains some much-needed breathing space. A penalty allows the Cowboys to advance into attacking territory, and they capitalize quickly. A deflected kick creates an opening, and Mason Barber seizes the moment, extending their lead. Bulldogs 24 - Cowboys 34.
73rd minute: Canterbury has been relentless, camping on the Cowboys' line. But Liam Sutton's try-saving tackle changes the game. The Bulldogs' error at the scrum gives North Queensland an easy escape. Bulldogs 24 - Cowboys 28.
Up Next: Dragons vs Knights
67th minute: The Bulldogs are on a roll! Jope Rauqe scores his team's fifth try after chasing down a towering bomb from Joseph Teaupa. Aaymon Fitzgibbon converts, and we're left with a tense four-point game. Bulldogs 24 - Cowboys 28.
65th minute: Canterbury continues its momentum with a brilliant play from Joseph Teaupa. The five-eighth evades defenders and sets up Louis Grossemy for a try. The Bulldogs are now within striking distance. Bulldogs 18 - Cowboys 28.
58th minute: The Bulldogs have all the momentum in the second half. Joseph Teaupa orchestrates a short-side move, setting up Cooper Toy in the corner. The winger delivers, beating the cover defense. Bulldogs 14 - Cowboys 28.
47th minute: Aaymon Fitzgibbon, the youngest player on the field at just 18 years old, makes an immediate impact. He races through to gather a grubber and ground the ball, showcasing his talent beyond his years. Bulldogs 10 - Cowboys 28.
Half-time Analysis
The Cowboys put on a superb display in the first half, with big names stepping up. Jake Clifford, Robert Derby, and Heilum Luki all made their mark. The Bulldogs found some late momentum, with Justin Matamua scoring their first points of 2026. Bulldogs 6 - Cowboys 28.
38th minute: The Bulldogs finally get on the board! A series of set restarts allows them to advance into attacking territory, and Justin Matamua breaks through, scoring their first try of the year. 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 wrestle his way past three defenders and score. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 28.
24th minute: Robert Derby scores his second try as the Cowboys continue to dominate. A slick right-edge move exposes the Bulldogs' defense, and Derby extends his side's lead. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 22.
18th minute: Jaxon Purdue, the Cowboys' five-eighth, joins the action with a towering bomb. Zac Laybutt is there to capitalize, extending their lead. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 16.
16th minute: Robert Derby extends the Cowboys' lead, winning the race for a Jake Clifford grubber. Clifford's performance at halfback is impressive, and he's making a strong case to partner with Tom Dearden in the halves. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 10.
10th minute: The Bulldogs successfully challenge an early tackle, earning a penalty. They threaten the line but an errant pass ends the opportunity. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 6.
6th minute: Heilum Luki crashes over for the opening points. Luki, playing his first match since tearing his ACL in 2024, is set to be a key player for the Cowboys this season. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 6.
3rd minute: We see the first Captain's Challenge of the year, with Thomas Mikaele successfully appealing a dropped ball ruling. North Queensland is awarded a penalty, and the Cowboys get the first attacking opportunity. Bulldogs 0 - Cowboys 0.
Late Mail and Team News
The Bulldogs make a late change, with Fletcher Baker starting in his first match for Canterbury, replacing Daniel Suluka-Fifita. Suluka-Fifita is not injured and is expected to play next weekend against the Knights. The Cowboys start with a full squad, 1-13.
Get ready for an action-packed double-header! Who will emerge victorious in these pre-season clashes? Don't miss a moment of the excitement!
