Tupouniua puts rivals on notice after frustrating season

Bulldogs forward Sitili Tupouniua is finding optimism amid a challenging season as he gears up to lead his team's push for a finals berth.

Joining Belmore at the onset of the year, he was expected to contribute both leadership and depth to a young forward pack aiming to compete with stronger teams in the league.

While the season began with promise in the first two months, injuries and suspensions disrupted Tupouniua's progress.

After returning to action two weeks ago, the 28-year-old is eager to play a significant role in the Bulldogs' effort to secure their first title in over two decades.

Tonga's campaign kicks off with a match against Samoa at Suncorp Stadium on October 26, followed by a game against New Zealand at Eden Park the subsequent week. The final is scheduled for November 9 at CommBank Stadium.

As he contemplates the next month, Tupouniua plans to assess how his body responds before fully committing to the tournament, expressing that it would be a privilege to participate.