Get ready, rugby league fans, because the 2026 Witzer Pre-Season Challenge is here, and it’s kicking off with a bang! Four teams headed to Las Vegas are set to battle it out in a thrilling double-header at Jubilee Oval, and trust us, you won’t want to miss this. But here’s where it gets controversial—are these pre-season matches just warm-ups, or do they hint at what’s to come in Vegas? Let’s dive in and find out.
First up, the Bulldogs face off against the Cowboys, followed by the Dragons and Knights as they shake off the off-season rust. Speaking of the Dragons, they were last year’s runners-up in this very challenge, and they’re hungry to go all the way in 2026 before heading to Vegas to clash with the Bulldogs. Will they rise to the occasion? Only time will tell.
Bulldogs v Cowboys: A Match of Twists and Turns
The Bulldogs and Cowboys delivered a rollercoaster of a game, with the Cowboys dominating early but the Bulldogs fighting back fiercely in the second half. And this is the part most people miss—the tactical substitutions and young talent on display were game-changers. Here’s how it unfolded:
- 79th minute: A Cowboys error gave the Bulldogs a late chance, with Mikey Nassar scoring in the corner to make it a four-point game. Bulldogs 30 - Cowboys 34.
- 76th minute: Mason Barber extended the Cowboys’ lead after a deflected kick caught the Bulldogs off guard. Bulldogs 24 - Cowboys 34.
- 73rd minute: Liam Sutton’s try-saving tackle kept the Bulldogs at bay, showcasing the Cowboys’ defensive grit. Bulldogs 24 - Cowboys 28.
- 67th minute: Jope Rauqe’s try, after a towering bomb from Joseph Teaupa, brought the Bulldogs within striking distance. Bulldogs 24 - Cowboys 28.
- 58th minute: Cooper Toy’s try, set up by Teaupa’s brilliance, kept the Bulldogs’ hopes alive. Bulldogs 14 - Cowboys 28.
- 47th minute: Aaymon Fitzgibbon, the 18-year-old prodigy, scored his first try, proving age is just a number. Bulldogs 10 - Cowboys 28.
Halftime: The Cowboys led 28-6, with Jake Clifford and Robert Derby starring. But the Bulldogs’ late try by Justin Matamua hinted at a potential comeback.
Early Dominance by the Cowboys: Tries from Heilum Luki, Robert Derby, Zac Laybutt, and Kai O’Donnell gave the Cowboys a commanding lead. But here’s the question—was it the Cowboys’ strength or the Bulldogs’ slow start?
Dragons v Knights: Next in Line
After the Bulldogs-Cowboys thriller, the Dragons and Knights take center stage. With the Dragons eyeing a pre-season title before their Vegas showdown, this match is more than just a warm-up. Will the Knights spoil their plans? Stay tuned.
Final Thoughts
This double-header wasn’t just about the scores; it was about young talent, tactical battles, and the promise of what’s to come in Vegas. But here’s the real question—which team impressed you the most, and who’s your early pick for the Witzer Pre-Season Challenge winner? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to follow all the action on NRL.com’s live blog. Rugby league is back, and it’s better than ever!
