Dragons fans will be hoping their team can pull a rabbit out of the hat to close out Magic Round when they take on top-of-the-table Panthers.<\/p>\n
Yet to win a game this season, St George Illawarra have a challenge on their hands against a Penrith side who played perfect football in the first half of their entertaining win over Raiders last week.<\/p>\n
However, coach Ivan Cleary was not pleased with their error-riddled closing stages as Canberra pressed hard for an upset, saying he had already addressed those issues with his side upon full-time.<\/p>\n
The Dragons have endured a tough season so far, but have produced some positive signs, namely with their young crop of forwards getting valuable experience and impressing with their efforts along the way.\u00a0<\/p>\n
This week in the final game of Magic Round, they will be able to test themselves against some of the best forwards in the game and gain some valuable lessons no matter the result.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Team News<\/p>\n
Panthers: Just the one change for the competition leaders, with Jack Cogger slotting straight back into the No.14 jersey in his return from suspension. Jack Cole drops out of the squad as a result. Liam Henry retains his place on the interchange after making a successful return from injury last weekend.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Dragons: Kyle Flanagan gets a recall in the No.7 jersey with youngster Kade Reed suffering a finger injury against the Knights. Centre Moses Suli’s return from a back injury sees Tyrell Sloan slide to the bench while Christian Tuipulotu comes in on the wing for Mat Feagai (back). Five-eighth Dan Atkinson (hand) and edge back-rower Luciano Leilua (suspension) are also back for the Red V as they bid to snap a nine-game losing streak.<\/p>\n
Stat Attack<\/p>\n
The Panthers have won eight of their last nine games against the Dragons.
\nThe Dragons have conceded 106 points in their last two games.
\nThe Panthers have won four of their last five Magic Round games.
\nDragons hooker Damien Cook will play his 250th NRL game.
\nPanthers halfback Nathan Cleary has scored seven tries in his last seven games against the Dragons.<\/p>\n