LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, despite a challenging match, are still in contention for the season following a 26-18 defeat to the Melbourne Storm. With a Home Semi-Final set for next week, Cameron Ciraldo's team is determined to regroup after a valiant effort.
The match began with high energy, but the Bulldogs faced an early setback when star back-rower Viliame Kikau was sidelined for a head injury assessment just two minutes in. The Storm seized the opportunity as Eli Katoa scored the opening points, with Nick Meaney converting to give Melbourne a 6-0 advantage.
Kikau returned after his assessment; however, another injury scare ensued as Captain Stephen Crichton fell awkwardly during a tackle, subsequently causing him to leave the field. Despite this, Crichton displayed commendable resilience by attempting to continue playing.
With Crichton absent, Enari Tuala shifted to right centre, Matt Burton moved to left centre, and Toby Sexton made a notable entrance as five-eighth for his first NRL game since Round 19. Sexton quickly made an impact, scoring from his first touch following a clever flick pass from Kikau. Burton converted the try, leveling the match at 6-all.
The Storm regained the lead with a penalty goal, but the Bulldogs quickly retaliated when Jacob Kiraz, returning from an ankle injury, scored in the corner. Burton followed up with a successful sideline conversion, putting the Bulldogs ahead at 12-8.