LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
Academy Wrap Finals Week 3: Dogs Gallant in Defeat
The Bulldogs faced a tough end to their seasons in the Lisa Fiaola Cup and Tarsha Gale Cup, losing in the preliminary final to the Parramatta Eels.
Despite the defeat, the Club praised both teams for their remarkable efforts this season and expressed excitement for the upcoming NRLW and Harvey Norman Women's Premiership competitions, highlighting the emergence of future Bulldogs talent.
The match started strong for the Bulldogs, with Asha Taumoepeau-Williams scoring the first try.
However, the Eels quickly responded, setting the stage for a fast-paced game filled with back-and-forth scoring.
Lala Vaea added to the Bulldogs' tally, but Parramatta continued to battle back, keeping the game competitive.
Evelyn Roberts, the Bulldogs' captain and five-eighth, regained the lead for her team in the second half with a swift try from a quick tap.
Yet, the Eels once again came back, taking a 22-20 lead with just eleven minutes remaining.
In a dramatic final stretch, the Bulldogs had a critical chance to clinch victory, but an unfortunate fumble near the try line dashed their hopes.
Ultimately, it was a valiant effort from the Bulldogs, who fell just short of making it to the Grand Final.