Rugby League / James Cleary / 23 July 2010 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market

Ladder leaders the Dragons host a Titans side currently undergoing a slump that James Cleary believes could jeopardise their play-off chances.

The Titan's capitulation to the Broncos last time out made it three successive defeats, two of them when they had led, which has left the Gold Coast side eighth.

The Dragons in contrast have won 13 from 17 this year, claiming a hard-fought 16-13 victory over the Rabbitohs last week, thanks to Mark Gasnier's score inside the final 10.

Not only do the Dragons have the form, they also have the hex over the Titans, having won six from seven against them, and being unbeaten in Sydney against this opposition, while also not shipping more than 12 points in the process. Last time out, they were 19-6 winners in round 6, while the Titans' only win was 28-24 at Skilled Park last season.

In terms of selection, Matt Cooper comes in for the home-side having recovered from a hamstring injury, replacing Kyle Stanley at centre. Jeremy Smith is also added to the replacements' list.

The Titans must do without hamstring victim Greg Bird and Ashley Harrison, so Steve Michaels comes in for his bow in the centres, with Mat Rogers moving to No. 6. Bodene Thompson moves from centre to lock, with Clinton Toopi his replacement. Ben Ridge and Shannon Walker are on the extended bench, while Ryan James misses out.

Discipline in possession has proved the Titans' Achilles heel, and that could again be their downfall this time. They need Scott Prince and Mat Rogers to fire, while former Dragon Luke Bailey will be looking for a big game. The Dragons are the NRL masters in terms of completion rate, with creator Darius Boyd and top try scorer Brett Morris at the top of their game at present.

If the visitors don't get off to a good start, it could be a long 80 minutes.

For the latest news, stats and the ladder, check out the BETFAIR'S NRL STATS ZONE.