Bulldogs overcome Storm in a thriller
The Canterbury Bulldogs defeated the Melbourne Storm 36-22 at AAMI Park on Friday night, overcoming a controversial sin bin incident. The victory propelled the Bulldogs into the top eight, marking their sixth win from their last seven games and their 10th for the season.
The match saw the Bulldogs head into halftime with scores level and a player down after hooker Bailey Hayward was sin-binned for a professional foul. The decision was contentious, as replays suggested Storm youngster Cooper Clarke might have passed the ball forward in the lead-up to the incident.
Key Moments and Controversies
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Bulldogs maintained their resolve. Viliame Kikau was a significant factor, making crucial plays that put the Bulldogs in advantageous positions. Jaeman Salmon contributed with two tries in the first half, while captain Stephen Crichton scored a double, including a game-breaking try in the 69th minute set up by a Kikau offload.
The Storm, playing without key players such as Jahrome Hughes, Cameron Munster, and captain Harry Grant, fielded a makeshift spine including debutant Hayden Watson, Tyran Wishart, and Trent Toelau. Despite their efforts, they ultimately succumbed to the Bulldogs’ pressure.
A controversial moment in the second half involved a try awarded to Josh Curran for the Bulldogs. Replays suggested the ball might have come off the forearm of Jethro Rinakama before reaching a Storm player. Despite this, the try stood, with commentators noting the lack of categorical evidence to overturn the on-field decision.
The Storm had taken an early lead through centre Moses Leo, who scored after claiming a Toelau bomb. Sua Fa’alogo also scored for the Storm, showcasing his speed to reach a grubber kick from Toelau. Fa’alogo’s performance at fullback has been a notable aspect of the Storm‘s season.
Player Performances and Judiciary Watch
Stephen Crichton continued to impress in the five-eighth position, setting up two tries, running for 47 metres, and scoring two tries himself. His leadership and communication skills were highlighted as valuable assets for the team.
For the Storm, Hayden Watson made a positive debut at halfback, running for 84 metres. Sua Fa’alogo also had a strong outing, running for 114 metres, scoring a try, and breaking three tackles.
Several players were placed on report during the match. Max King of the Bulldogs was reported for a high tackle on Moses Leo. Oryn Keeley of the Storm was reported for a late tackle on Stephen Crichton, and Trent Toelau was reported for a high tackle.
The Bulldogs have now won three consecutive games and six of their last seven, moving into eighth place on the ladder after being 14th after 13 rounds. Their 36 points scored in this match represents their highest score of the season. This loss marks the Storm‘s 12th of the season, their most since 2005, and their first loss at AAMI Park since Round 8.
Historically, the Storm have a strong home record, winning 72% of their matches at AAMI Park. The Bulldogs, however, have struggled on trips south, with a 31% win rate from four games. Of the past five encounters between these two teams, four have been decided by 10 points or less.
The Storm‘s injury woes have been a significant factor this season. Despite the defeat, the performances of some of their younger players, such as Hayden Watson and Sua Fa’alogo, suggest a promising future for the club.
The Bulldogs’ recent form, marked by improved execution and completion rates, indicates a positive shift for the team. Their victory against the Storm was a crucial step in their campaign for a finals spot.
The match was played on Friday, with an 8pm (AEST) kick-off.
Source: foxsports.com.au
Charlotte Reid 