Origin stars back, Creagh fit for Monday night Roosters clash

And the Dragons will have NSW State of Origin fullback Josh Dugan and forward Trent Merrin in their squad.

Dragons coach Paul McGregor named a 19-man squad for Monday’s game.

Apart from the expected bumps and bruises, both Dugan and Merrin came through NSW’s thrilling game two 26-18 win on Wednesday, June 17, at the MCG unscathed. The series is 1-1 and game three on Wednesday, July 8, at Suncorp Stadium, is the 2015 decider against Queensland.

Second rower Tyson Frizell, who pulled out of the Blues training camp at Coffs Harbour before the second game in Melbourne will play against the Roosters after being cleared by the Dragons medical staff.

Dragons skipper Ben Creagh, who recently secured another one-year contract  with the club, said the team is refreshed after the bye last week.

‘‘It was nice to get a week off last round as it was a tough loss against the Bulldogs prior to that but it was nice to get the body right and recover well,” said Creagh.

Creagh hurt his ankle against the Bulldogs but he will take his place against the Roosters.

“My ankle got awkwardly caught in a tackle during that game but the week off has done the world of good,’’ he said.

“The Roosters are a quality side with great players across the park so we will definitely have our hands full but a good challenge that the boys are up for.’’

While the match is a Dragons home game on Monday night at Allianz Stadium, the Roosters hold a 12-10 advantage at the ground, in matches between St George Illawarra and the Sydney Roosters since 1999.

Overall, the Dragons have won 18 times, the Roosters, 14, and there has been one draw in 33 clashes.

Match kick-off 7pm.

It’s a Dragons home game and the gates open 4.30pm.

Determined: Dragons skipper Ben Creagh leads the team against the Sydney Roosters in Monday night football at Allianz Stadium.Picture: Chris Lane

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