The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs experienced a tough 22-6 defeat against the South Sydney Rabbitohs on their home ground.
Billed as a crucial match for finals contention, the Bulldogs started strong but couldn't maintain momentum.
A lively exchange saw Bailey Hayward, Leo Thompson, and Connor Tracey create opportunities, with Stephen Crichton and Viliame Kikau close to scoring.
Crichton was held up just short by a vital tackle from Jack Wighton, saving the Rabbitohs from an early deficit.
Jethro Rinakama also had a chance when he caught a kick from Lachlan Galvin but was prevented from crossing due to resilient defense.
The Rabbitohs struck first after a contentious penalty awarded for a tackle on Bud Sullivan allowed Cody Walker to assist David Fifita in scoring.
With Sam Sullivan's successful conversion, the score moved to 6-0.
Six minutes later, Walker assisted again, leading to a try from Alex Johnston, extending the Rabbitohs' lead to 10-0 at halftime.
An early error by the Bulldogs after the break handed the Rabbitohs a chance, resulting in a try from Tallis Duncan.
The score fluctuated to 14-0 after a missed conversion by Sullivan, who seemed to sustain an injury during the attempt.
Things worsened for the Bulldogs as Rinakama's knee injury reshuffled the backline, forcing Enari Tuala to left wing and Bronson Xerri to right centre.