Round 9 Team News: Battle of the bite as Bulldogs take on Tigers

The Bulldogs will be gunning for their fourth-straight win at home this season, having notched thrilling victories over the Titans, Roosters and Knights at Belmore and Sydney Olympic Park so far.

While Chris Patolo drops out from the starting lineup due to injury (knee), Kurt Mann returns from a hand fracture to play his first match since Round 5.

Local junior Bailey Hayward retains his spot in the 17, after playing a key role in the 36-12 win over the Knights in the Bulldogs' last match at Accor. Over 17,000 fans packed the stands that day to watch the Bulldogs clinch their third match of 2024. With this weekend's local derby set to be a fierce battle between two up-and-coming sides, the Club is calling on fans to once again rally behind the blue and white breed.

GET IN EARLY, SECURE YOUR TICKETS NOW.

Second rower Viliame Kikau, centre Bronson Xerri, and winger Josh Addo-Carr hold down a lethal left edge, while Jacob Kiraz, Stephen Crichton and Drew Hutchison build on a strong combination on the right. Kiraz will mark his 50th game in Club colours.

Jacob Preston remains an outside chance to return from a jaw injury (fracture), pending clearance from the medical team. He will be assessed as he progresses through the week. Preston joins a strong list of reserves including Poasa Fa'amausili, Toby Sexton and Jake Turpin, while Blake Wilson takes 18th man (returning from illness).

The match will be broadcast live on Fox Sports. For fans wanting to get out and enjoy what promises to be an exciting local derby between two vastly improving sides in 2024, visit Ticketek now to secure tickets.