In a thrilling encounter at Kogarah Oval, the Bulldogs triumphed over the Dragons 28-20, but the match was marred by controversies, particularly regarding a penalty try awarded to the Dragons. The incident involved Bulldogs captain Stephen Crichton, who made risky contact with Dragons winger Christian Tuipulotu, leading to the decision. Tuipulotu, despite his efforts, could not secure a hat-trick victory as his team fell short.
During the first half, Tuipulotu appeared to lose possession while attempting to score. However, the Bunker determined that Crichton’s foul play prevented a certain try. The decision sparked tension on the field, with Tuipulotu confronting Crichton and Dragons captain Clint Gutherson stepping in to diffuse the situation.
The match also featured several heated moments, including a late contact foul by Bulldogs second-rower Jacob Preston on Dragons star Valentine Holmes, which ignited a confrontation between Preston and Dragons playmaker Kyle Flanagan. Additionally, two more players were placed on report in the second half: Dragons prop Emre Guler for a crusher tackle and Bulldogs utility Jaeman Salmon.
Canterbury surged ahead with a strong performance, notably from new recruit Sitili Tupouniua, who scored a brace early in the second half, pushing the score to 28-6. However, the Dragons mounted a comeback, with Tuipulotu adding two tries and hooker Jacob Liddle scoring as well, pulling the score to 28-20. Despite their efforts, the Bulldogs managed to hold on for the win, securing vital premiership points.
Tuipulotu’s performance was especially noteworthy as he gestures to signal his eagerness for a more lucrative contract amid ongoing negotiations. This match highlighted the intense competition and skilled gameplay within the league, despite the contentious incidents that punctuated it.