Is it possible that Cameron Ciraldo has acknowledged a defeat concerning the Canterbury Bulldogs' new spine?
You've likely heard it before.
Matt Burton isn't equipped to be a five-eighth. Lachlan Galvin doesn't fit the mold of a halfback. Their synergy in the halves has been called into question. What led the Bulldogs to part ways with Reed Mahoney last year?
This past Saturday at Homebush, following the Bulldogs' first loss of the 2026 NRL season, Ciraldo offered perhaps the clearest hint yet that he may be conceding to this narrative.
In just three games, the Bulldogs have managed to score a mere 45 points.
They netted 15 against the St George Illawarra Dragons in Las Vegas, where two tries were scored and a penalty secured the win in golden point, followed by 14 against the Canberra Raiders despite challenging weather, and finally 16 against the Knights.
Notably, two of their three tries against the Knights originated from highly questionable passes.
Ultimately, the Bulldogs lost to the Knights by eight points due to a second half resurgence.
What was the issue concerning that second half revival?
The spine required a shift to ignite it after a first half characterized by errors, a lack of creativity, and an unimaginative attack.