Get ready for the return of rugby league action! It's an exciting start to the pre-season as the young and talented NQ Cowboys face off against the baby Bulldogs in a highly anticipated challenge.
The Battle for Vegas Begins!
The four teams destined for Las Vegas in 2026 will showcase their skills in a series of pre-season fixtures, and you won't want to miss a single moment. Catch all the action live and ad-free on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports. Join now and enjoy your first month for just $1!
Round 1: Cowboys vs Bulldogs - A Tale of Two Strategies
In the first match-up, the Bulldogs and Cowboys approach their trial match with contrasting strategies. While the Bulldogs have opted to rest most of their top players, the Cowboys have decided to keep a few key starters, including the promising young talent, Jaxon Purdue.
Purdue, a rising star, will partner with halfback Jake Clifford, and this dynamic duo could be auditioning for a spot alongside Tom Dearden in the halves for the Vegas games. It's an opportunity for Purdue to showcase his skills and prove his worth.
Another notable return for the Cowboys is Heilum Luki, a star back rower who's making a comeback after a serious knee injury. His presence adds an extra layer of excitement to the team's lineup.
Teams:
Cowboys:
- Mason Barber
- Robert Derby
- Zac Laybutt
- Liam Sutton
- Jaxson Paulo
- Jaxon Purdue
- Jake Clifford
- Harrison Edwards
- Xavier Kerrisk
- Thomas Mikaele
- Heilum Luki
- Kai O'Donnell
- Sam McIntyre
- Zac Herdegen
- Kaiden Lahrs
- Mason Kira
- Matthew Watts
- Creedence Toia
- Ronald Philitoga
- Maddox Goodwin
- Wiremu Greig
- Tyler Moriarty
- Joseph Doyle
- Isaiah Latu
Bulldogs:
- Taye Cochrane
- Cooper Toy
- Sosaia Alatini
- Jed Reardon
- Jonathan Sua
- Joseph Teaupa
- Alex Conti
- Daniel Suluka-Fifita
- Gordon Chan Kum Tong
- Samuel Hughes
- Alekolasimi Jones
- Logan Spinks
- Lipoi Hopoi
- Fletcher Baker
- Zyon Maiu'u
- Aaymon Fitzgibbon
- Jack Underhill
- Raymond Puru
- Hamish Wilson
- Jope Rauqe
- Michael Nassar
- Justin Matamua
- Bud Smith
- Bailey Myers
Follow the Live Blog Below!
Don't miss a single play! Click the link to join the live blog and be a part of the action.
And here's where it gets interesting... With a mix of experienced players and up-and-coming talent, this pre-season challenge promises to be a thrilling showcase of rugby league's future stars. Who will emerge as the standout performers? Will the Cowboys' strategy pay off, or will the Bulldogs surprise everyone?
Join the discussion in the comments! What are your predictions for this match and the pre-season series? Are you excited for the return of rugby league?
