Last night the Tigers were average, but keeping in mind they had several players with injury clouds over them. The fact they got through unscathed, gives them an extra week to recover.
You won't be playing the Tigers of last night, moreso a more fitter, helthier confident version.
I agree with the sentiments in here, if the Dragons let in at least 2 early tries, they could struggle to win the game. However if their defence can stifle the tigers early, and they get the first try, Tigers will panic and struggle to get the upper hand.
The Tigers had a smarter game plan last night, played wide of the Raiders props all night, effectively removing their input out of the game.
I wouldn't be surprise if a similar tactic is used to take the Dragons back row out of their match. A lot of teams don't rate the Tigers forwards and they do so at their own peril. Dragons need to prepare for their toughest forward battle yet. Not because their will be one, but because it will be essential for them to win. Tigers forwards aren't dominating (except Ellis and Galloway) but they are honest toilers and very fit, so they won't drop their intensity for the whole match. Tigers are always a good chance to outperform their opponents in the second half because of this.
Anyone who thinks it'll be a cakewalk is seriously kidding themselves. Just look at how many people in this thread predicted the raiders to win last night. Shows you a lot about the Tigers commitment and ability that their injury ravaged rabble could pick up a win in Canberra's home.
In all objectiveness, I really cannot think who will win this. The pre-match drama will focus on 2005 and that will be hard for the Dragons to ignore. The media will also be banging on about choking Dragons etc etc. The players will have to use that stuff as a motivator, not letting it create negativity in their heads. If they move away from what has worked so well all year they'll lose.
Nothing fancy, just good disciplined football and solid defence will win them the game. If your defence doesn't rush up at Marshall or Farah, they'll frustrate them.
