In an exciting preseason trial match, Faaletino Tavana showcased remarkable athleticism for the Wests Tigers, scoring a stunning try against the Sydney Roosters despite most of his body being out of bounds. The match saw the Tigers make a significant comeback, overcoming a 0-16 deficit to secure a 42-26 victory, highlighting the team’s potential ahead of the 2026 NRL season. With Heamasi Makasini also contributing a hat trick, the performance left Coach Benji Marshall optimistic about the team's upcoming challenges.

Conversely, the Canterbury Bulldogs faced a setback as star player Matt Burton limped off the field during the match against Newcastle. His potential absence due to injury raises concerns for the Bulldogs as the team prepares for the double-header season opener in Las Vegas on March 1, 2026. Injury to a key player at this stage adds pressure on the team's roster and strategy moving forward into the season.

As the NRL looks to expand its reach with the Las Vegas opener, the performances shown in these trial matches could offer insights into team strengths and weaknesses heading into a crucial season. The Tigers' comeback highlights their resilience, while the Bulldogs must quickly assess Burton's condition to remain competitive. Fans are eagerly anticipating how these developments will shape the NRL landscape in the coming months.