LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the visiting Bulldogs put a damper on Shaun Johnson's final home game with the Warriors, dominating in the second half to secure a 34-18 victory.
It was a tough blow for Johnson, Jazz Tevaga, and Addin Fonua-Blake, who bid farewell to the team as they prepare to take on new challenges in the NRL next season.
The match got off to a slippery start, with both teams struggling in the wet conditions.
Johnson, still basking in the adulation of the crowd as the stadium was temporarily named in his honor, made an early error with a dropped ball in his first touch.
However, the Bulldogs returned the favor with back-to-back errors, giving the Warriors ample opportunity to strike.
Marcelo Montoya capitalized on a clever pass from Luke Metcalf to score on the left side, while Kurt Capewell powered through the defense to extend the lead with Johnson's successful conversion.
But the Bulldogs fought back, taking advantage of repeated penalties from the Warriors to score their first points of the match.
Bronson Xerri found the try line on the left, despite the worsening conditions making conversions difficult for Matt Burton.
The game remained intense with the Bulldogs closing the gap to 12-4.
Ultimately, the Bulldogs' relentless pressure proved too much for the Warriors to handle, as they surged ahead in the second half to secure the win.
It was a disappointing end for Johnson and his departing teammates, but they can hold their heads high knowing they gave their all on the field.