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Parramatta Eels vs St George Illawarra Dragons Tips and Prediction

Ryan Tucker

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Last updated: 20 Mar 2026

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Ryan Tucker 20 Mar 2026

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Parramatta Eels and St George Illawarra Dragons both show promising attacks but have defensive issues.
Expect a fast-paced game with both teams ranked weak in key defensive metrics.
Key betting insights: Dragons +5.5 and Val Holmes as an anytime tryscorer.
Kick off is at 4:05 PM (AEST) on Sunday 22nd March at CommBank Stadium

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Valentine Holmes of the Dragons. (Photo by Mark Nolan/Getty Images)

Parramatta Eels vs St George Illawarra Dragons Tips and Prediction

Two teams struggling defensively to start the season meet in what shapes as one of the highest-scoring games of Round 3.

Parramatta Eels vs St George Illawarra Dragons Tips and Prediction
How this game shapes up
Best Bets
Dragons +5.5
Val Holmes Anytime Tryscorer
What could go wrong?
Parramatta Eels vs St George Illawarra Dragons NRL 2026 Round 3 FAQ’s

How this game shapes up

Both Parramatta and St George Illawarra have shown attacking potential but continue to leak points at an alarming rate.

The Eels bounced back last week with 40 points but still conceded 32, highlighting ongoing defensive issues. Their missed tackle count across the opening rounds remains a major concern. As previewed before the season started, continuity for the Eels is important for their chances to make finals.

The Dragons have followed a similar pattern, showing flashes in attack but falling away defensively, particularly in the second half of games.

With both teams ranking poorly in key defensive metrics, this matchup sets up for a fast-paced contest with plenty of scoring opportunities.

Best Bets

Dragons +5.5

Recent meetings between these teams have consistently been tight, with multiple games decided by a single score. The Dragons have also shown a tendency to stay competitive in close contests, making the line appealing.

Val Holmes Anytime Tryscorer

Holmes is in strong form and comes into this matchup after a standout performance last week. With Parramatta’s edges already exposed defensively, he is well placed to capitalise.

What could go wrong?

Both teams are unpredictable early in the season.

If Parramatta build on their improved attack from last week and tighten up defensively, they have the ability to pull away and break the close-game trend.

Parramatta Eels vs St George Illawarra Dragons NRL 2026 Round 3 FAQ’s

How to livestream Parramatta Eels vs St George Illawarra Dragons NRL 2026 Round 3?

You can livestream the Parramatta Eels vs St George Illawarra Dragons NRL 2026 Round 3 game via Fox Sports or Kayo Sports. If you are watching from outside of Australia the WatchNRL app is the perfect solution.

How to buy tickets to Parramatta Eels vs St George Illawarra Dragons NRL 2026 Round 3?

To buy tickets to the Parramatta Eels vs St George Illawarra Dragons NRL 2026 Round 3 game check the NRL website or the official Parramatta Eels site.

Verdict

Parramatta Eels v St George Illawarra Dragons

A high-scoring and tightly contested game is expected, with the Dragons staying within the number in a match that could go down to the final moments.

Dragons +5.5

Line

@9/10 - 3 Units

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Over 52.5

Game Total

@9/10 - 2 Units

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Val Holmes

Anytime Tryscorer

@16/11 - 1 Unit

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