The 13-12 loss to the Sharks was not only a devastating confidence blow to St George Illawarra; it has also left them fighting for a place in the top eight among a group of teams.

And the Dragons face five crucial games in this season's remaining rounds, starting with Friday night's showdown with Wests Tigers at WIN Stadium.

"The loss hurts and it is a setback for our season," five-eighth Jamie Soward said.

"But we're still in control of our own destiny and we've just got to bounce back from it."

The Dragons led 12-0 when Bulldogs-bound winger Josh Morris scored in the 51st minute, but tries to Luke Covell and halfback Brett Kimmorley allowed the Sharks to level the scores with five minutes left.

Sharks halfback Brett Kimmorley's 78th-minute field goal on Saturday effectively ruined any hope of a top-four finish for the Dragons.

St George Illawarra remain sixth on the ladder on 24 points, while Wests Tigers' big victory over the Bulldogs yesterday allowed them to move to 22 points, making Friday's clash at WIN Stadium crucial to both teams' seasons.

The Dragons' other remaining games are against the Broncos and Warriors - also fighting for finals positions - as well the Eels, who can stay in the hunt with victory over Newcastle tonight.

The Raiders, Panthers and Titans are also in the finals mix.

The Dragons' final game is against the Roosters at Sydney Football Stadium.