Rugby League
2025-04-18 - Canterbury Bulldogs vs South Sydney Rabbitohs
A Sports Betting Pick by Stu
Rugby League : Australia : NRL Season 2025
Friday 18th April 2025 - KO 1605 AEST
St Canterbury Bulldogs
The Canterbury Bulldogs have been flying high in the 2025 season, currently sitting at the top of the NRL ladder with an undefeated record of 5-0. The past 8-10 years have been a long road for the Bulldogs faithful, however, thanks to some astute purchases over the past 4 season, acquiring some exceptional talent, the Dogs are now right at the top of their game and should easily make the top 8 from this wonderful start to 2025.
Under the guidance of coach Cameron Ciraldo, the Bulldogs have developed a formidable team with a strong defensive structure and an effective attacking unit. Key players like Matt Burton and Viliame Kikau have been instrumental in their performances, with Burton's playmaking abilities and Kikau's powerful runs driving the team's success. Both these players are named to return this week too.
Canterbury Bulldogs Team news – some big name inclusions to strengthen and already very strong team, Burton and Kikau are named to return, Tupouniua is the other name to return from the bench.
South Sydney Rabbitohs
The South Sydney Rabbitohs have had a strong start to the 2025 season, currently sitting fifth on the NRL ladder with four wins and two losses. Under the experienced guidance of coach Wayne Bennett, the Rabbitohs have shown a return to form with resilience and determination.
Key players like Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker have been pivotal, with Mitchell's dynamic play on show last weekend and Walker's creativity in the halves driving the team's attack.
The Rabbitohs have faced significant injury challenges, but the return of Cody Walker from a hamstring injury and Campbell Graham from a calf injury will boost the team. The Rabbitohs defence has been solid, but they will need to maintain their consistency to counter the Bulldogs attacking threats.
The much spoken about inclusion of off-season English recruit Lewis Dodd, potentially making his NRL debut, adds depth to the squad in the halves after Humphries injury takes him out of contention for a few weeks.
South Sydney Rabbitohs Team news – Cody Walker returns from injury, Dodd is named for his first ever NRL match on the bench and Campbell Graham is also back on the wing taking Johnston’s position.
Odds
Bulldogs start heavy favourites, $1.31 to $3.50, the line is 10.5 points and combined points 44.5
The Betting Verdict
There is a great history between these clubs and typically matches between the Canterbury Bulldogs and the South Sydney Rabbitohs have been closely contested. The Rabbitohs have had the upper hand in recent encounters, winning the past six Good Friday clashes which has become a regular fixture for the clubs each season.
Overall results are 24-22 with one draw from 47 matches played. The Dogs have won just two head to head battles against the Rabbits since 2019 losing 6 along the way with the most recent result at a similar stage last season 20-16 to Souths. The venue of Accor stadium is used by both teams and is expected to have 70,000 passionate fans turn up to support their respective teams.
The Bulldogs' defence has been exceptional, conceding just 58 points from their five matches so far. Their recent victory over the Newcastle Knights, where they held their opponents scoreless, showcased their defensive prowess. The return of Matt Burton from a knee injury and Viliame Kikau's potential return from the extended bench will further strengthen the team.
Just like the Dogs receiving some welcome returns of key personnel, Souths have Cody Walker and Campbell Graham who are both chances of an NSW Blues call up and the combination of Latrell Mitchell who now has a couple of games under his belt since his return will make this match a highly competitive one. Expect plenty of passion from the crowd and players in this one.
Given the current form and head-to-head advantage, the Canterbury Bulldogs are likely to come out on top in this encounter. But the fact Souths have managed to claim the last 6 Good Friday clashes certainly gives the Rabbits more of a chance than maybe what the Bookies are offering. For that reason, looking at a points start of +10.5 for Souths should be a solid option here
For First try scorers, Kiraz $6.50 or Graham $10.00 are great options for some extra spice.
The Pick :
Canterbury Bulldogs 24-20 South Sydney Rabbitohs
