NRL Round 1 is finally here, marking the triumphant return of the Telstra Premiership at Allegiant Stadium.
The Bulldogs want to replicate their success from 2025 as they gear up to face rivals in Las Vegas.
Coach Ciraldo has utilized the new six-man bench, featuring players like Kurt Mann, Sitili Tupouniua, and newcomer Sean O'Sullivan.
The Dragons, on the other hand, enter with a strong lineup, missing bench hooker Jacob Liddle but welcoming back veterans like Josh Kerr and Valentine Holmes.
Rookie Setu Tu is set to make his NRL debut, adding excitement to the matchup.
Connor Tracey for the Bulldogs and Clint Gutherson for the Dragons will be crucial, bringing consistency and a strong work ethic.
Tracey had an outstanding 2025 season, averaging 200 metres and contributing significantly to his team's success.
Meanwhile, Gutherson thrived after moving from Parramatta, averaging 152 metres while scoring and assisting multiple tries.
As the match progresses, both fullbacks will need to maintain momentum during the inevitable late-game fatigue.