LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
In Round 19, the Bulldogs secured a narrow victory over the Cowboys in Townsville, ending a two-game losing streak and keeping pressure on Canberra at the top of the NRL ladder.
Key to their win were two late tries in the first half by Jacob Preston and debutant Jethro Rinakama, which allowed them to recover from an 8-0 deficit to lead 12-8.
In the second half, they successfully defended against multiple North Queensland attacks to clinch the match by four points.
The Bulldogs remain just two points behind the Raiders and are tied with the second-placed Melbourne Storm, who triumphed 32-14 over the Knights.
The Storm, while sluggish in the first half, saw a shift in momentum with reigning Dally M Medallist Jahrome Hughes leading them after halftime.