LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL Snakes and Ladders: Raiders rise to the top, Bulldogs plunge
As the 2025 NRL season unfolds, a new format is introduced where teams are ranked weekly based on their performances, diverging from last season's final table.
ESPN reports that this new "snakes and ladders" system provides an alternative view of team standings.
Last year's finishing order saw Melbourne Storm, Penrith Panthers, and Sydney Roosters at the top, with the Gold Coast Titans and South Sydney Rabbitohs at the bottom.
In a key match, Canberra faced off against the Dolphins, initially taking the lead.
However, the Dolphins capitalized on a Canberra error, leading to a 28-10 halftime advantage.
The second half witnessed a transformation for the Raiders, who scored five consecutive tries, securing their place at the top of the snakes and ladders board.
Meanwhile, the Melbourne Storm hosted the Rabbitohs on Anzac Day.
After a slow start, both teams exchanged leads, with the Storm taking control in the second half to clinch the victory.
The undefeated Bulldogs had a dismal start against the Broncos, fumbling the ball in their first set leading to an easy try.
The Broncos dominated, leading 34-0 at halftime.
Despite a second-half effort by the Bulldogs, their chances were hindered by multiple sin bins.
In another match, North Queensland battled the Gold Coast Titans, initially falling behind.
After a series of momentum shifts, including a sin bin for Jake Clifford, the Cowboys rallied to level the match at 18-18.
They then surged ahead, scoring six more tries, including a penalty try that secured a hat trick for Robert Derby.
This innovative ranking system aims to offer a fresh lens on the competitive landscape of the NRL season.