LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In the latest round of NRL action, the Bulldogs lost their top spot to the impressive Raiders, showcasing a new format for the 2025 season where team performance weekly adjusts their rankings, rather than following traditional results.
This new take, reported by espn.com.au, reflects each team's current form rather than their finishing position from the previous year.
The last season's final standings had Storm at the top, followed by the Panthers, Roosters, and others down to the Tigers.
During a critical match, the Raiders visited the Warriors, both vying for a high placement on the competition ladder.
The game displayed high-quality play, with the Warriors initially establishing an 8-0 lead.
However, after the Raiders were reduced to 12 men, they responded with a try to equalize at 8-8 before the halftime break.
In the second half, despite facing numerous set restarts, the Raiders managed to score the only try, securing a 16-10 victory.
Meanwhile, the Bulldogs faced off against the Dolphins under challenging conditions.
The Dolphins struck first with a try by Jamayne Isaako, but the Bulldogs quickly equalized at 8-8.
However, the game took a turn just before halftime when the Dolphins led 14-8 after a series of clumsy play from Bulldogs' Reed Mahony.
A potential comeback by the Bulldogs was thwarted by a controversial forward pass call, ultimately leading to a heavy defeat as the Dolphins surged ahead.
The Sharks, full of confidence before their match against the Roosters, found themselves down 12-0 within 10 minutes, largely due to defensive lapses.
They struggled to keep pace with the Roosters, who exploited their disorganization, leading to a disappointing loss for Cronulla.
Overall, the round highlighted the shifting dynamics in the NRL, with teams like the Raiders stepping up while others, like the Bulldogs and Sharks, faced setbacks.
The ongoing adjustments in performance-based rankings add an exciting layer to the competition as the season unfolds.