LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
In a hard-fought match at CommBank Stadium on Sunday afternoon, the Dragons fell short of defeating the Parramatta Eels, with the hosts holding on for a narrow 26-20 victory.
Despite an impressive performance from winger Mikaele Ravalawa, who scored four tries, the Dragons couldn't secure the top spot.
Ravalawa's four-try haul was a remarkable feat, making him the first Dragon since Brett Morris in 2009 to achieve this in a single game.
The Eels started strong, with debutant Arthur Miller-Stephen and second rower Bryce Cartwright scoring early tries to give them a 10-0 lead.
However, Ravalawa's hat-trick in the first half swung the momentum back in favor of the Dragons, giving them a six-point edge at halftime.
Ravalawa continued his impressive form by scoring a fourth try early in the second half.
However, the Eels mounted a comeback, scoring three tries in just 12 minutes to secure the much-needed win.
The Dragons suffered an early setback with Francis Molo being ruled out for the rest of the game due to concussion symptoms.