An upset loss to the Raiders in Round 2 will have left the Roosters with some soul searching to do before taking on a Dragons side who bounced back in style last week.
The Tricolours had no answer for Canberra's energy and execution last Saturday, and by coach John Strange's own admission the result means his side can no longer claim to be the favourites for the 2023 title.
Struggles to control the ball and complete sets, which they did just 66 percent of the time, were compounded by a poor defensive effort that included 32 missed tackles.
It was a different story for the Dragons, who responded to coach Jamie Soward swinging the selection axe after their opening-round defeat in positive fashion with a comprehensive 38-12 win against the Eels.
With their new-look halves pairing looking far more connected, and each setting up two tries, St George Illawarra showed they have enough strike with ball in hand to cause opponents headaches this season.
Both foundation NRLW clubs, these two have met on six occasions to date with the Roosters winning four times, including getting over the top of the Dragons in the 2021 decider.
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Team News
Roosters: The Roosters are 1-17 with no late changes. Jess Sergis will play after being a late withdrawal last week due to a hamstring concern. Joeli Morris, who came in to fill a gap in a revamped backline in Round 2, is the 18th player. With Mya Hill-Moana (head knock) out, Teuila Fotu-Moala starts at prop and former Wallaroos and NSW Waratahs player Grace Hamilton – who has joined the squad as an injury replacement – comes in on the bench. Otesa Pule goes back to the interchange after starting last week, with Amelia Pasikala named to start in the back row.
Dragons: The Dragons are 1-17 as named with no late changes. Renee Targett is out of the squad after starting the first two games at hooker, with Kaarla Cowan the new No.9 after coming off the bench last week. Sophie Clancy is the new face on the bench. Margot Vella and Cortez Te Pou remain the first-choice wingers for coach Jamie Soward after both scoring doubles last week.
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Stat Attack
- The Roosters have won three of their last four matches against the Dragons.
- Dragons fullback Teagan Berry has scored four tries in two games to start the NRLW season.
- Roosters prop Millie Boyle leads the competition in post-contact metres with 180.