LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
Bulldogs Mark Belmore Debut Despite Raiders' Firepower
bulldogs.com.au reports that the Bulldogs faced a disappointing outcome in their inaugural NRLW match at Belmore Sports Ground against the Raiders. Although the final score favored the Canberra Raiders 54-26, this event will be remembered in the history of the club.
With a sunny afternoon and a vibrant crowd, the atmosphere was set for an electrifying game. However, the Raiders dominated, controlling possession and racking up the points quickly. Head Coach Brayden Wiliame acknowledged that, while the loss stings now, the experience will contribute to future growth.
A misplay by Bulldogs' Latisha Smythe on a challenging grubber enabled Chloe Saunders to widen the Raiders' lead to 16-0 after a successful conversion. The Bulldogs responded in the 18th minute through a dynamic midfield play featuring Holli Wheeler and Co-Captain Angelina Teakaraanga-Katoa, who powered over from close range. Tayla Preston's conversion brought the score to 16-6.
The Raiders quickly countered with Sereana Naitokatoka's line break, resulting in Elise Simpson scoring after a 40-meter dash under the posts. Temara's conversion expanded the lead to 22-6. Just before halftime, Taufa leveraged her experience to score yet again, pushing the Raiders to 28-6 with another successful conversion from Temara.
In the closing moments of the half, the Bulldogs displayed resilience, with Kalosipani Hopoate creating a chance that was held up near the line. Shortly after, Alexis Tauaneai secured her first try after returning from injury, with Preston converting to bring the score to 28-12 at halftime.
At halftime, the Raiders dominated possession with 62%, completing 16 of 17 sets at an impressive 94% efficiency, while achieving 22 tackle breaks compared to the Bulldogs' 12 and recording four line breaks against the Bulldogs' two.