NRL Round 4 Match Preview: A Saturday Special at Home
After three weeks of travel, the Bulldogs return to Accor Stadium for their first home game of 2026, facing the Knights.
The Blue and Whites are in high spirits after securing two wins and a bye, while the Knights arrive battered with injuries.
However, the Bulldogs must remain cautious, as this match holds potential surprises.
Sitili Tupouniua steps into the starting front row, and Lipoi Hopoi makes his season debut.
Sean O'Sullivan and Fletcher Baker have also been named on the bench, eyeing their first Bulldogs appearances.
A lot has changed since memorable victories, including Hazem El Masri's clutch goal at Marathon Stadium back in 2002.
Recent matchups favor the Bulldogs, who have won their last three encounters against the Knights.
Canterbury boasts a strong overall record, winning 32 out of 59 contests against Newcastle.
In their preseason clash, the Bulldogs secured a commanding 28-nil victory.
Nearly a year has passed since their last NRL match in Round 5, 2025, where the Bulldogs won 20-nil.
Key players in this matchup include Stephen Crichton and Bradman Best, despite not directly opposing each other.