Legends Young Guns and High Stakes at Jubilee Stadium

Legends, Young Guns, and High Stakes at Jubilee Stadium

This weekend at Jubilee Stadium in Kogarah is shaping up to be one of those special moments in rugby league where history, community, and high-stakes football all collide. The spotlight will first fall on some of the game’s greatest names when grand final heroes Jason Nightingale and Luke Lewis lead the Dragons and Sharks in the Tynan Old Boys match during half-time of the NRL local derby. It’s become more than just a bit of fun — it’s now a tradition, a celebration of camaraderie and the deep rugby league roots in St George and the Sutherland Shire. Nightingale, who famously scored twice in the Dragons’ 2010 premiership win, will be joined by teammates like Kyle Stanley, Chase Stanley, and Dan Hunt. Lewis, the 2016 Clive Churchill Medal winner, will run out alongside Todd Carney, Ben Ross, and other Sharks alumni. Even Carney, once shown the door by the Sharks in 2014, is back in the fold, now working as a coach and commentator.

Tynan Motors, with more than 60 years backing local rugby league, continues to throw its support behind the event. Madeline Tynan summed it up perfectly — it’s not just about rivalry, but respect and the shared history of the game.

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Earlier in the day, the NRLW clash will bring its own flavour, with nine former Illawarra Steelers juniors — including debutants Tori Shipton and Tahlia O’Brien — suiting up for the Dragons against the Sharks. With injury and suspension forcing changes, coach Nathan Cross has leaned on youthful energy and local talent, backed by experienced returnee Maddie Studdon. The Dragons’ NRLW side may have dropped their last two games, but Cross believes their hunger will show, especially in Indigenous Round, with both teams wearing specially designed jerseys.

Then comes the main event — the NRL showdown between the Dragons and Sharks. The stakes couldn’t be higher for St George Illawarra. Sitting in 12th place, they must win every remaining game to keep their finals hopes alive, and they’re carrying a 10-game losing streak against Cronulla. Despite the challenge, there’s fresh optimism. Coach Shane Flanagan, fresh off signing a two-year extension through 2028, has been laying the groundwork for long-term success. His vision is centred on a young core, strengthened by key recruits and returning talent like Josh Kerr. Injuries have hurt the Dragons’ campaign, but Flanagan insists the team is close to turning a corner.

With the day set to feature legends reliving their glory days, rising stars chasing their dreams, and a fierce derby battle that could shape the Dragons’ future, Jubilee Stadium is primed for a Saturday that blends nostalgia, pride, and a whole lot of passion for the Red V.

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