Live: Reed Debuts as Dragons Seek First Win on Anzac Day Amidst Coaching Turmoil

The St George Illawarra Dragons face a pivotal Anzac Day clash against the Sydney Roosters, a match that underscores their desperate search for a maiden victory in the 2026 NRL season. This encounter is fraught with added significance following the recent sacking of coach Shane Flanagan, a move that signals the club's deep-seated struggles. The Red V's winless run, now extending to 11 games dating back to last year, paints a grim picture of their current form.

“

Was there a bigger story in the NRL this week than the Dragons parting ways with Shane Flanagan as coach? The Red V have lost all seven matches in 2026, and they are on an 11-game losing streak dating to last year.

In a bold decision, interim coach Dean Young has thrust 20-year-old Kade Reed into the spotlight for his NRL debut, replacing Kyle Flanagan, the son of the former coach, in the crucial halfback role. This injection of youth into a struggling side highlights the club's attempt to spark a turnaround, though it places immense pressure on the young playmaker in a high-stakes environment.

“

Kade Reed is a 20-year-old making his debut on Anzac Day.

Beyond the Dragons' woes, Anzac Day remains a cornerstone of the NRL calendar, honoring a day of immense significance in Australia and New Zealand. The fixture list reflects this importance, with the New Zealand Warriors hosting the Dolphins in Wellington and the Melbourne Storm facing the South Sydney Rabbitohs in a highly anticipated match.

“

It is a mighty arena for this man to step into. He made his NSW Cup debut late last year, and he has played three matches in that competition this season.

From an Australian perspective, the Dragons' ongoing turmoil is a familiar narrative of a club grappling with persistent underperformance. While the Anzac Day clash itself is steeped in tradition and remembrance, the focus for many will be on whether the Dragons can finally turn a corner, or if this match will simply add another chapter to their tale of woe. The debut of Kade Reed offers a glimmer of hope, but the weight of expectation on the young player, and the team as a whole, is substantial.

“

St George Illawarra Dragons Interim coach Dean Young has named young Kade Reed to make his NRL debut at halfback. It means Kyle Flanagan will come off the bench this afternoon.