After losing by one point to the Bulldogs in the opening game of the 2026 season, there are concerns that the Dragons don’t have the X-factor players to get over the line in close games.
Watch every game of every round of the FOX LEAGUE Premiership season LIVE with no ad breaks during play. You can watch it on Kayo Sports | Is this your first time in Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.
They showed incredible grit and toughness in Las Vegas over the weekend, but it wasn’t enough to get them over the line.
What can you really lose when gambling? Set a deposit limit. For free and confidential support, call 1800 858 858 or visit gaminghelponline.org.au.
Although they struggled offensively, it was their defense that kept them competitive throughout the game.
No one ran more than 185 meters. And while the opponent only had one line break and four support plays, the opponents had seven and 14.
“The concern is they’re missing the X-factor. Like in the game we saw earlier, who is Stephen Crichton to them?” journalist Michael Karaiannis said on NRL360.
“Flanagan and Daniel Atkinson did a good job and we were very strong defensively, but we didn’t really contribute much offensively.”
Brace Anasta added: “With all due respect, I hardly noticed they were attacking.”
“It’s still early so they have the ability to get better, but if there was one (half) that was more optimistic about them, it’s the Bulldogs,” Brent Reed agreed.
Lack of X-Factor exposed in Dragons | 00:56
Despite the close race against one of the premiership contenders, all four panellists believed the Dragons were due for an early break in September.
“They’re going to take a break in September brace…and nothing I saw tonight changed my opinion,” Reid said.
“No, they didn’t look like a team that would finish last. If they play a game like this, they will win defensively.”
Karagiannis continued: “I don’t think they can make it to the finals at all. I think their guts were really good, but they don’t have the players that can turn the game around. I don’t think they can make it to the finals.”
“When the game is even, I don’t know how they’re going to win because they don’t have the X-factor.”
Turris slams Cowboys offense | 02:50
Anasta noted that fullback Clint Gutherson could be the X-factor the club was looking for, but that was quickly shut down.
“He’s not fast enough, Blaise,” Karayannis said.
The co-hosts said having the X-factor isn’t all about speed, but agreed that the veteran fullback is no longer at the level of other superstar players in the league.
Anasta continued, “He may not be fast enough, but he comes up with special plays and even cookies.” [Damien Cook] A couple appears.
“He comes up with those plays and he’s like the X-factor for them, and if he’s your X-factor, he’s the guy you go to.
“He’s a great player, but he’s not at the level of[Stephen]Crichton or Rhys Walsh. The list goes on.”