Read + Write + Report
Home | Start a blog | About Orble | FAQ | Sites | Writers | Advertise | My Orble | Login

NRL News - by Craig Hill

Bulldogs Defeat Sea Eagles

March 15th 2009 05:08
Teenage centre Jamal Idris and former Cronulla winger Bryson Goodwin bagged two tries each as the 2008 wooden-spooners completed a horror week for the premiers at ANZ Stadium.

In just his fourth first grade game, Idris announced his arrival as a force in 2009 when he scored the Dogs' first four-pointer with a bulldozing run through three would-be Manly defenders.

The 18-year-old was then on the end of an overlap in the 27th minute to grab his second.

"He's obviously a pretty big kid," Dogs captain Andrew Ryan said of the 106kg Idris.

"He made his first grade debut and sort of lobbed up and was asking people why he wasn't feeling nervous.

"That's just the way he is but he just needs to keep learning.

"It's pretty good to be standing over the other side of the field watching him shrug away tackles."

Bulldogs coach Kevin Moore said it wouldn't be difficult keeping the dreadlocked centre's feet on the ground.

"He's a terrific natured kid," he said.

"We've got some pretty good people around, some senior people ... there's any number of blokes that are going to keep him grounded.

"He's the sort of kid that not too much fazes him at the moment, he's only 18 and he just turns up. It's like a game of park footy for him.

"He's got a lot to improve on too, he probably struggled toward the back-end of the game. He loses his legs towards the end of the game, he's still struggling probably with that pace of the game at first grade and playing 80 minutes." Goodwin, 23, is the third son of St George legend "Lord" Ted Goodwin to play first grade after brothers Luke and Bronx.

He had played nine first grade games with the Sharks before Saturday night, when he was on hand to cross out wide in the 37th and 50th minutes.

Ryan said he'd had "no idea" the rebuilt Dogs, who signed big names Brett Kimmorley, Michael Ennis, Ben Hannant, David Stagg and Josh Morris in the off-season, would click so early.

"It's been a huge build-up for us over the off-season, especially with all the new guys coming on board," Ryan said.

"I've never seen a club that's had so many new guys on a roster.

" ... There's been so many changes and credit to the coaching staff, we've gone away and done a few camps together and we've really bonded quite quickly and I think it shows in our performance." Manly captain Matt Orford, who deflected any suggestion that the sexual assault charge against star fullback Brett Stewart last week had contributed to the loss, gave the Bulldogs the early-season thumbs up.

"I think the Dogs are really going to trouble some teams this year, they're going to surprise a lot of people," he said.

Canterbury Bulldogs Logo


68
Vote
   


Bulldogs Defeat Raiders In Trial

February 28th 2009 20:14
The Bulldogs held off a spirited comeback from Canberra to win their NRL trial 24-16 at suburban Logan on Saturday night.

Down 18-0 towards the end of the first half, the Raiders stormed back to score three unanswered tries and get to within two points of the Bulldogs with ten minutes to go.

But Canterbury scored their fourth try of the match to put the game beyond the Raiders' reach.

The Bulldogs, last year's wooden spooners, deserved the win as they dominated possession throughout and defended fiercely in the second half.

They started more committed than their opponents and always looked more dangerous in attack.

Canberra got away to the worst possible start when they lost Scott Logan to an ankle injury, the big prop limping off after a heavy tackle in the first minute.

It went from bad to worse when Bulldogs winger Bryson Goodwin crossed out wide and Mick Ennis converted to put the Sydney side ahead 6-0 after just five minutes.

The Bulldogs had all the ball over the opening 25 minutes and put the Raiders under huge pressure with their relentless attack.

New signing Brett Kimmorley went close, only to be denied by some desperate defence, but the pressure eventually told when fullback Luke Patten burst through some flimsy tackles to score, Ennis again converting to put the Bulldogs out to a 12-0 lead.

They were in again seven minutes before the break when Ennis finished off some brilliant lead-up work from Goodwin, Patten and promising newcomer Jamal Idris, who used his lightning speed to set the Bulldogs off on a 90 metre break down the right touchline.

The Raiders were looking certain to go in to the break staring at an 18-0 deficit, but they struck back right on the stroke of halftime against the run of play.

In one of the rare forays into the Bulldogs quarter, Josh McCrone stabbed a kick ahead, which Bulldogs winger Brent Crisp spilled over the line for Raiders centre Joel Monaghan to fall on the loose ball.

Terry Campese converted to narrow the gap to 18-6 at the break.

Two minutes after the re-start Monaghan scored his second when the Bulldogs again failed to deal with a chip ahead, spilling the ball over the line to hand the Raiders centre the simplest of tries and put his side back to within eight points.

The gap was down to two points when Monaghan's centre partner Adrian Purtell strolled over untouched and Campese converted, but that was as close as the Raiders were to get as the Bulldogs absorbed the pressure then struck back to seal the win.

BULLDOGS: 24
Tries: 4
Bryson Goodwin, Michael Ennis, Luke Patten, Chris Armit
Goals: 4
Michael Ennis 3, Hazem El Masri 1

Bulldogs Media Release (AAP)

Canterbury Bulldogs Logo


64
Vote
   


Dragons Defeat Bulldogs In Trial

February 21st 2009 21:32
Mathew Head assumed a stranglehold on the St George Illawarra No.7 jumper for the NRL season proper after leading the Dragons to a 24-12 trial win over the Bulldogs in Wollongong on Saturday night.

Vying for the halfback jumper with injured incumbent Ben Hornby, Head put together a solid display as he set up three of the Dragons' four tries, both sides showing enough to leave rival coaches Wayne Bennett and Kevin Moore happy that there is plenty to work with.

The new-look Bulldogs looked slick early with new buys Michael Ennis and Brett Kimmorley particularly sharp, which is more than can be said for Head as he watched the kick-off bounce over his head and the dead-ball line.

It was a happier 'homecoming' for Josh Morris when the centre - playing against the club he had called home since he was a teenager - held off three defenders before popping a ball for Matt Utai to score.

Head struggled with his short kicking game but his passes soon began finding their range as he got the Dragons on the board.

He first laid on a flat ball for Matt Cooper to score before snatching an intercept from Ben Hannant and finding Jason Nightingale, who raced 75 metres for a 12-6 lead.

Piloting the Bulldogs for the first time in his long career, Kimmorley looked comfortable as he outsmarted the home side's defence to put understudy Ben Barba over to lock it up at the break.

The game got a little scrappy in the second stanza as both coaches emptied extended benches, Head on the park for long enough to put Ricky Thorby under the posts before he too was given a well-deserved early mark.

Despite Head's performance and the unlikelihood of Hornby playing in the Dragons' final pre-season match against Souths next weekend, Bennett said his halves were far from settled for round one.

"Not at the moment, we've got Ben Hornby to come back so we've got to make a decision about him, where he plays," Bennett said.

"But I'm really happy with Mathew and certainly Jamie Soward."

Asked if he would risk throwing Hornby in without a trial under his belt, Bennett said:

"Oh, yeah, why not, he's played 170 of them."

Moore said he was happy with side's performance, especially the play of Ennis and Kimmorley around the ruck, but said he was expecting the intensity to lift in the club's second and final trial against Canberra next week.

Bulldogs backrower Brad Morrin was the only major casualty out of the match with a suspected broken hand while Daniel Harrison and Barba both suffered mild concussions.

AAP

St George Dragons
71
Vote
   


After seven years as Chairman of the Bulldogs RLFC, Dr George Peponis confirmed at today’s AGM that he will step down at the end of the 2009 campaign.

Dr Peponis came into the position when the Club was facing some challenging times back in 2002.

“It was only ever my intention to stay long enough to ensure that we got back on our feet and we are at that point now. I have extreme confidence in the direction the Bulldogs are headed and in the personnel we have in charge.” Dr Peponis said

“I will stay on as Chairman for the next 12 months; providing us with the stability needed to capitalise on the progress being made in fostering some important changes for the Club.”

Dr Peponis and the current board of directors were re elected unopposed at today’s’ AGM, the first time the Bulldogs Football Club has not contested an election for board positions in six years.

Bulldogs Media Release

Canterbury Bulldogs
44
Vote
   


Bulldogs Coach Kevin Moore

February 5th 2009 11:15
New Bulldogs coach Kevin Moore can only look on with envy at Brisbane's decision to wrap Darren Lockyer in cotton wool for the club's NRL trial matches.

It's a luxury Moore simply can't afford.

With a new coach, new support staff and eight new players in their first grade squad, Moore knows he needs to use the trials to get all his players on the same page.

"The past few years we've probably gone in trying to get everyone in the fulltime squad - which is about 30-35 players - we've tried to get all those blokes a run in first grade in the trials," Moore said.

"This year, certainly in the first 60 minutes, we're going to focus a bit more on the top 20-21 players and give the fringe players maybe a run at the back end of matches."

While Moore will no doubt be keen to give the likes of Ben Hannant, Josh Morris and David Stagg their first run in a Bulldogs jumper, it's the performance of two of his other new boys - Brett Kimmorley and Michael Ennis - which will be of particular interest.

Bulldogs Kevin Moore


Those two more than anyone else will determine the success of a side looking to rid itself of the wooden spoon.

As the first-choice halfback and hooker respectively, Kimmorley and Ennis will be the two players teammates look towards to make things happen, a sharp change in direction for a club which for so long relied on its powerful pack to steamroll the opposition.

All of which means the pressure will be on the duo to make the new-look team work from the get-go.

"It's not like it's about the results in trials, it's about building your combinations and certainly our combinations need more work than most other teams because we've got some key new players - particularly when you bring in a new No.7, a new No.9," Moore said.

"But in saying that the two blokes that we've brought in in those positions are quality blokes and I think they'll pick it up fairly quickly.

"Certainly our combinations we've been working pretty hard on and the trials give us a chance to build on that further."

The Bulldogs will open their pre-season campaign against St George Illawarra in Wollongong on February 21 with their other warm-up coming against Canberra in Brisbane the following Saturday.

AAP
47
Vote
   


Bulldogs Jarrad Hickey Back Surgery

January 28th 2009 07:45
Bulldogs enforcer Jarrad Hickey yersterday underwent successful back surgery by leading surgoen Dr Richard Parkinson.

The operation was very similar to the procedure Luke Patten underwent prior to Christmas and he is already back training with the full time group.

Hickey was able to recieve phone calls from his hospital bed this morning and had this to say,

"The operation was very successful and the surgeon seems happy with all the initial indications.

"The pain has been quite minimal and I hope to get out of hospital within the next couple of days."

Hickey will enter into an extensive rehabilation program with a view to returning for the Bullodgs in the next 2 to 3 months.

Bulldogs Media Release

Jarrad Hickey
34
Vote
   


Aaron Groom Released From Bulldogs

January 19th 2009 07:24
Aaron Groom has today been granted a conditional release from the final year of his contract with the Bulldogs.

A creative ball running half/hooker, Groom played 6 first grade games for the Bulldogs in 2008 and was a standout for Fiji in the World Cup.

“I genuinely believe the Bulldogs have a big year ahead, I will be following them closely and I wish them well for the 2009 season,” Groom said.

“I have an opportunity to move to the UK with my English girlfriend and will be exploring career options outside of football.”

The Bulldogs granted the release on personal grounds after a request from Groom and have no immediate plans to replace him in their full-time squad.

Bulldogs Media Release

Aaron Groom
26
Vote
   


Les Matthews Tribute

January 7th 2009 14:00
The Bulldogs would like to pass on their condolences to the friends and family of the late Les Matthews who passed away last Friday at the age of 69.

Matthews was highly regarded across all levels of rugby league from his tireless work with the referees and the greater game of rugby league in general.

Matthew’s distinguished career included work from the grass roots of the Canterbury Junior League to the lofty heights of the game’s elite professional. Les was Secretary of the NSW Rugby League Referees Association from 1990 to 2008 and is a Life Member of the NSW Rugby League, the Canterbury-Bankstown District Junior League and the Canterbury-Bankstown Referees Association.

Les Matthews


Not surprisingly tributes for Les Matthews have come from all levels of the game, highlighting the level of respect and reputation he established over his many years of loyal service to the game.

Bulldogs CEO Todd Greenberg, “Les was extremely well regarded by everyone he came in contact with during his long and successful career within rugby league circles, especially in the Canterbury Bankstown district.

“Les will be sorely missed at the games, meetings and functions which he reliably attended via his various affiliations, in particular the CBDRL Grand Final Day”.

(See photo attached from the 2008 CBDRL Grand Final, Les is 3rd on the Right)

NSW Rugby League General Manager Geoff Carr,: "Les devoted his life to refereeing and to the development of referees.

"Les made an outstanding contribution to the game in this area over a long period of time and he will be sorely missed”

NRL Chief Executive Officer David Gallop, "Les dedicated a lifetime of service to the game and our thoughts go out to his family and friends."

Bulldogs Football and Media Manager Frank Barrett, “Anyone who was lucky enough to come in contact with Les always knew exactly where they stood; he was honest, reliable and determined to get the job done right.

“Les was a wonderful educator of up and coming referee’s and his legacy will last for many years via the current crop of referee’s he has guided through the ranks”

Les Matthews' funeral will be held at All Saints Catholic Church, 48 George Street, Liverpool, this Friday, January 9, at 11am.

Bulldogs Media Release
7th Jan 2009
40
Vote
   


Christmas has come early for the Bulldogs with David Stagg today signing a two year deal with the Club.

Stagg, 25, has played 81 first grade games and has represented Queensland at State of Origin level.

“We have an opportunity here for David to cement himself as a starting backrower,” said Bulldogs Head Coach Kevin Moore.

“He’s an excellent defender and a strong runner of the ball and his professionalism will set a great example for some of our younger blokes coming through. We’re looking forward to having him on board.”

David Stagg Bulldogs


Stagg will make the move to Sydney with his wife Temika and 4 month old daughter Paige over the Christmas break and will start training with the Bulldogs in early January (media will be advised of details when dates are confirmed).

“I was very impressed with the club and the direction it is heading, they have recruited very well for 2009,” said Stagg.

“The Bulldogs culture of a family club is evident and this suits us perfectly.

“From a football perspective, I was genuinely excited about how Kevin Moore plans to use me to best benefit the team.

“I have really enjoyed my time with the Broncos, but the opportunity to test myself in a new environment was a challenge I felt I needed.”

Canterbury Bulldogs Media Release

Monday, 22 December 2008
45
Vote
   


Bulldogs repel late Sharks surge

May 26th 2008 11:08
The Canterbury Bulldogs have put a week of turmoil behind them by registering a dramatic 30-22 victory over an ill-disciplined Cronulla Sharks outfit at ANZ Stadium tonight.

It was a welcome return to form for the struggling Bulldogs outfit of season ’08, scoring five tries to four in an otherwise scrappy encounter.

It was a fitting send-off for Canterbury fullback Cameron Phelps who leaves for Wigan this week to take up a lucrative contract with the UK-based glamour club, with the skilful utility’s last gasp defence shutting down numerous Sharks attacking raids.

Cronulla were their own worst enemies, failing to control possession and given away silly penalties to allow the Bulldogs to storm out to a match-winning 18-4 lead.

The Sharks showed that they were ready to play by opening their account in the fifth minute; utility Fraser Anderson crashing through a Daryl Millard attempted tackle off the back of a sweeping Sharks backline movement.

Canterbury were quick to reply with their own free-flowing attacking raid, this time the ball travelling through five sets of hands before rookie centre Tim Winitana flashed over in the 14th minute.

In his first game back from injury, goal-kicking winger Hazem El Masri converted magnificently from the sideline to hand the Bulldogs a 6-4 advantage.

The home side extended their lead just six minutes later thanks to a brilliant solo effort from Daniel Holdsworth, the makeshift five-eight brushing aside two defenders on a damaging thirty metre burst.

Another El Masri conversion from a wide angle saw the home side push out to a surprise 12-4 lead, with the Sharks finding the going tough due to injuries to fullback Brett Seymour and hooker Isaac De Gois.

With Cronulla failing to control the football, the Bulldogs took full advantage with their third try inside the opening half hour, with backrower Sonny Bill Williams stepping through three tiring Sharks defenders to score a crucial try given the context of the match.

And the accuracy of El Masri’s kicking boot wasn’t helping Cronulla’s comeback chances, with the plucky Bulldogs wingers third conversion making it 18-4 at the break.

Canterbury started where they left off early in the second half, Winitana crossing for his second try off some quick hands from his inside support to push the home side out to a handy 24-4 lead after 46 minutes.

Sharks prop Danny Nutley gave the visitor’s some hope when he charged onto a short ball from Paul Gallen to barge over, with Brett Seymour’s conversion making it 24-10 in the 50th minute.

With the match threatening to erupt thanks to some niggle between Sonny Bill and Greg Bird, the Sharks composed themselves long enough to allow Brett Kimmorley to score off a majestic Bird grubber kick.

Seymour’s second conversion made it game on at 24-16 inside the final 20 minutes.

But the Sharks poor ball control and discipline looked to have cost them their third straight victory when Andrew Ryan stormed onto a precision Reni Maitua pass to stumble thirty metres and score, with El Masri’s perfect record continuing to make it 30-16 in the 62nd minute.

A 68th minute try to Cronulla centre Ben Pomeroy kept the Sharks within reach at 30-22, but again their lack of discipline prevented them from adding further points.

Canterbury Bulldogs 30
Tries: Tim Winitana 2, Daniel Holdsworth, Sonny Bill Williams, Andrew Ryan
Goals: Hazem El Masri 5
defeated
Cronulla Sharks 22

Tries: Fraser Anderson, Danny Nutley, Brett Kimmorley, Ben Pomeroy
Goals: Brett Seymour 3

At ANZ Stadium

Referee – Tony Archer
93
Vote
   


The Canterbury Bulldogs have held off a fast finishing St George-Illawarra Dragons outfit to record a convincing 30-18 victory at a soggy ANZ Stadium tonight.

Canterbury fans had their hearts in their mouths when the Dragons crossed for two quick converted tries inside the final ten minutes, but the desperate Bulldogs defence recovered to record their fourth victory of the season.

It was yet another frustrating night for the disjointed Dragons outfit, with the joint ventures handling errors again costing them from mounting any kind of challenge.

Bulldogs winger Matt Utai opened the scoring in just the 4th minute, with the pocket sized winger chasing down a rehearsed Daniel Holdsworth grubber to hand Canterbury the perfect start.

The importance of Canterbury superboot Hazem El Masri was not lost on the Bulldogs however, with Holdsworth missing with a relatively simple conversion attempt.

The Dragons reply was swift however, with St George-Illawarra’s ‘Chase connection’ laying on the Dragons opening try; centre Chase Stanley claiming the scraps off a Rangi Chase bomb, to level the scores at 4-all after 13 minutes.

A high shot by the Bulldogs Jarrad Hickey enabled the Dragons to claim a slender lead, with St George-Illawarra skipper Ben Hornby slotting the penalty goal to push the visitor’s ahead 6-4.

Despite being denied a try just moments earlier by video referee Paul Simpkins, young Canterbury centre Tim Winitana made amends when he finished off a slick backline movement to extend the Bulldogs lead on the half hour.

And it was the blinding speed of Utai that kicked the Bulldogs out to a handy buffer, this time Holdsworth poking another pinpoint grubber through for the zippy winger to score in the corner, with Holdsworth’s sideline conversion making it 14-6.

Canterbury centre Willie Tonga completed the first half in sensational fashion when he plucked a Stanley chip kick out of thin air and raced sixty metres to score on the half-time siren, with Holdsworth’s third conversion seeing the home side head to the sheds with a 20-6 advantage.

The presence of Sonny Bill Williams allowed Canterbury to score straight after the break, the brilliant backrower charging forty metres before passing to fellow forward Danny Williams to score a rare pointer.

Holdsworth’s third conversion handed the Bulldogs a seemingly unassailable 26-6 lead after 44 minutes.

Winitana’s second try six minutes later rubbed salt in the wounds of a frustrated Dragons outfit, especially after Matt Cooper was inexplicably denied what seemed a certain try by video referee Simpkins just minutes earlier.

Consolation tries to Cooper to and Simon Woolford finished another disappointing night for the joint venture, with Canterbury’s 30-18 victory seeing them move into the top eight.

Canterbury now faces a tough road trip when they take on the Manly Sea-Eagles at Brookvale Oval next Saturday night, whilst the Dragons will take on the Sydney Roosters in next Friday nights ANZAC Day clash.

Canterbury Bulldogs 30
Tries: Matt Utai 2, Tim Winitana 2, Willie Tonga, Danny Williams
Goals: Daniel Holdsworth 3
defeated
St George-Illawarra Dragons 18

Tries: Chase Stanley, Matt Cooper, Beau Scott
Goals: Ben Hornby 3

At ANZ Stadium

Referee – Bernard Sutton
69
Vote
   


Wounded Bulldogs face fiery Dragons

April 15th 2008 05:53
MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs

Canterbury Bulldogs


The Canterbury Bulldogs have suffered a duble injury blow ahead of this weekend's crunch match with the St George-Illawarra Dragons, with both Hazem El Masri and Michael Sullivan unavailable through injury.



The Bulldogs side to face the Dragons is -

1- Luke Patten
2- Heka Nanai
3- Tim Winitana
4- Willie Tonga
5- Matt Utai
6- Ben Roberts
7- Daniel Holdsworth
8- Jarrad Hickey
9- Corey Hughes
10- Chris Armit
11- Sonny Bill Williams
12- Andrew Ryan (c)
13- Lee Te Maari

Interchange -
14- Danny Williams
15- Brad Morrin
16- Justin Tsoulos
17– Gary Warburton
81
Vote
   


Canterbury Bulldogs

Canterbury Bulldogs


Attack – 7/10
Defence – 8/10
My prediction – 10th

2008 will be a make or break season for the Canterbury Bulldogs both on and off the field. Coach Steve Folkes is under immense pressure to produce positive results right from the word go, while boardroom in-fighting threatens to tear the once proud club apart.

The mass exodus of playing talent over the past six years has left the Canterbury club with an almost unrecognisable playing roster for the NRL’s Centenary season, with household names like Mason, O’Meley, Sherwin, Anasta and Thurston re-established elsewhere. Alot of emphasis has been placed on the Bulldogs rising up and comers in season ‘08, and given that the ‘Doggies finished minor premiers in the Premier League competition last season, Canterbury fans will have a new breed of exciting ‘pups’ to cheer for.

While the Bulldogs are always competitive, expect the Belmore based club to struggle if struck down by injuries, and with a tight competition race expected, than it could very well be a long season for the Canterbury faithful.


Strengths-

Despite losing international props O’Meley and Mason over the off season, the Bulldogs will again try and dominate teams through their physical forward pack. With a talented backrow consisting of Maitua, Williams and Ryan providing their backline with skilful second phase play, expect coach Folkes to instill a simple yardage gameplan for his expected four prop rotation.

The ‘bash and barge’ approach has worked quite successfully for the Canterbury club in recent seasons, but it remains to be seen whether the limited interchange rulings, coupled with the loss of some quality forwards, will have an impact on the Bulldogs success in 2008.

Weaknesses-

While the Bulldogs Top 17 looks the goods, it is their lack of quality depth that should see them lose out in a tight race to the semis. The ‘Doggies still posses the size and skill up front to mix it with most teams, however it remains to be seen how the Belmore based club will travel with a run of injuries. Another potential problem area for coach Folkes is the experience and leadership of rookie halves pairing Holdsworth and Roberts, with the clubs lack of depth leaving only Michael Sullivan as the only other play making alternative.

The big question is whether coach Folkes can mould a team full of brilliant individuals into an imposing premiership force before Round 8, which is allegedly the amount of time the beleaguered coach has been given to start showing results.

Best Team-

1- Luke Patten
2- Hazem El Masri
3- Daryl Millard
4- Willie Tonga
5- Matt Utai
6- Daniel Holdsworth
7- Ben Roberts
8- Chris Armit
9- Corey Hughes
10- Jarrad Hickey
11- Sonny Bill Williams
12- Andrew Ryan
13- Reni Maitua

14- Nick Kouparitsas
15- Justin Tsoulos
16- Michael Sullivan
17– Kane Cleal

Trial Matches-

23/2/08 v St George-Illawarra Dragons @ WIN Stadium
29/02/08 v Penrith Panthers @ Telstra Stadium

2008 Gains and Losses –

Gains – Aaron Groom (Manly), Justin Tsoulos and Nathan Tannous (Parramatta), Michael Sullivan (Warrington), Charlie Leano (St George-Illawarra), Danny Williams (Sydney Roosters), Robert Worsley (Cronulla), Chevvy Penehoe (Penrith), Conrad Ta’akimoeaka (North Sydney)

Losses – Willie Mason and Mark O’Meley (Sydney Roosters), Dallas McIlwain and Adam Brideson (Wynnum Manly), Brent Sherwin (Castleford), Trent Cutler and Aaron Wheatley (released), Billy Ngawini and Esi Tonga (Gold Coast), Karl Filiga (Cronulla), Jon Green (St George-Illawarra)

*Please join me tomorrow for my Analysis of the Canberra Raiders 2008 season.

Cheers,

StephenP
105
Vote
   


Willie Mason joins Sydney Roosters

November 15th 2007 07:00
Willie Mason


League bad boy Willie Mason has ended weeks of speculation concerning his future by putting pen to paper on a lucrative three-year deal worth more than $1 million with the Sydney Roosters today.

The deal was made possible under the salary cap after the Roosters offloaded lock Ashley Harrison to Gold Coast to free up $220,000 last week.

Sydney Roosters


After a three way battle with Manly and the Dragons including a last ditch offer from Cronulla, the Roosters have emerged victorious to sign the Australian forward after a falling out with the Bulldogs ended his tenure at the Belmore club.

A clearly relieved Mason said that a decision wasn't made until this morning because he had been waiting on Cronulla's offer, and that his close relationship with Ricky Stuart meant they had come close to snaring him.

In the end, the decision that prompted him to join the Roosters was the fact he and his partner both live in the eastern suburbs.

Willie Mason


"I think I've made the right decision. Everything just seemed right." he said.

"The Roosters have a strong playing roster and a great coach in Freddy. I’m just looking forward to being a part of it and getting on with the job of winning football games."

As well as joining former team mates Mark O'Meley, Nate Myles and Braith Anasta in red, white and blue, Mason will combine with names like Fitzgibbon, Tupou, Paea, O’Meley, Nutley, Shillington and Myles to form one of the most formidable packs in the competition.

The big forward is a veteran of 23 tests and 10 origin games for NSW.




108
Vote
   


Roosters, Sharks or Dragons for Mason?

November 10th 2007 06:30
Willie Mason
Who will Willie Mason be playing for next season?


Canterbury Bulldogs have given want-away bad boy Willie Mason permission to negotiate with other clubs after a crisis meeting on Wednesday.

The influential forward has since been the subject of a tug-of-war between the Roosters and the Sharks but the Dragons have emerged out of nowhere to be amongst one of the favourites to sign the Australian international. English club Wigan have also expressed their interest in his services.

Sydney Roosters in the affluent Eastern Suburbs remain favourites to sign Mason with officials at the Bondi Junction club, including coach Brad Fittler, scratching their heads to find a palatable deal for the club and player.

Sydney Roosters
The frontrunners to sign bad boy Willie Mason?


However, their efforts have been thwarted by their inability to find a club for prop David Shillington - the player most likely to make way for Mason's arrival.

Amongst other things is the matter of salary cap issues and whether the player, who is reportedly on $450,000 a season, would be willing to take a pay cut.

Taking a pay cut seems to be the least of Mason's worries when he briefly spoke to the media today.

"I don't think there's been a player that has come off contract a week before they start training, so it's a weird situation and I know that everybody has now got their roster settled and it's going to be hard to squeeze a player like myself into their roster," Mason said.

"So I know I'm going to have to take a pay cut and I'm willing to do that."
said Mason.

Expect an announcement to be made sometime next week.




108
Vote
   


Can the Roosters afford Willie?

November 2nd 2007 00:34
This weeks rumoured club hopping of disillusioned Bulldogs forward Willie Mason, will be sure to have NRL salary cap auditor Ian Schubert watching with interest ahead of the league’s 2008 Centenary celebrations.

The bitter standoff between Canterbury Bulldogs CEO Malcolm Noad and representative forward Willie Mason has allegedly reached crisis point, with The Daily Telegraph today reporting that the international star is all but set to quit the Bulldogs and link up with the Roosters as early as next week.

Willie Mason
Where Will-he go?


The sometimes controversial star froward is reportedly livid at being threatened with a $50,000 fine from Bulldogs management for failing to attend a grand final breakfast club luncheon last month.

With speculation rife that Mason will quit the Belmore based club, inner city rivals the Sydney Roosters are champing at the bit to sign one of the games most destructive forwards.

But the Roosters will struggle to be able to offer Mason more than a basic contract for the 2008 season, as most of the clubs salary cap has been invested in signing ex-Bulldog Mark O’Meley (until 2011), and the re-sigining of representatove stars Anthony Minichiello (2010), Anthony Tupou (2009), Braith Anasta (2009) and skipper Craig Fitzgibbon (2008).

Add to the fact that the Tri-colours playing roster also includes former representatives Ashley Harrison (2009), Nate Myles (2008), Iosia Soliola (2009), Danny Nutley (2008) and Amos Roberts (2009), then the Roosters will have to offload a handful of players for 2009 in order to be able to top up Mason’s meagre contract.

"It will come down to finances," Fittler said in today’s Daily Telegraph.

"I'm not quite sure what our exact position is with the salary cap but people are talking.

"I'd assume that because Willie would be quitting the Bulldogs, there would be no payout.


Mason is prepared to play for next to nothing in 2008 on the proviso his contract is topped up the following two seasons in order to leave the Bulldogs.

While the impending retirements of Fitzgibbon and Nutley is sure to releive some salary cap pressure, who will the Roosters relinquish in order to sing the highly marketable Mason?

Please offer your thoughts via the comments section below.

Cheers,

StephenP
102
Vote
   


'Shrek' returns to bolster Bulldogs

September 4th 2007 06:10
MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs

canterbury bulldogs


Canterbury Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes has rushed representative prop Mark O'Meley straight into the starting line-up for this Saturday nights preliminary final against the North Queensland Cowboys at Dairy Farmers Stadium.

O'Meley makes his belated return from a quadricep injury for the must win clash with the Cowboys, whilst Lee Te Maari has been named on the bench.

Willie Mason has been name din the backrow to replace suspended star Sonny Bill Williiams.

Williams has taken the early guilty plea in relation to his high shot on Johnathan Thurston, but will fight for a downgrade to the charge at the NRL judiciary on Wednesday night.

Canterbury Bulldogs team to play North Queensland Cowboys:-

1. Luke Patten
2. Hazem El Masri
3. Daryl Millard
4. Willie Tonga
5. Matt Utai
6. Ben Roberts
7. Brent Sherwin
8. Mark O'Meley
9. Corey Hughes
10. Chris Armit
11. Willie Mason
12. Andrew Ryan (c)
13. Reni Maitua

Interchange:
14. Adam Perry
15. Nick Kouparitsas
16. Lee Te Maari
17. Jarrad Hickey
56
Vote
   


Bulldogs thrash Raiders

August 12th 2007 06:09
The Canterbury Bulldogs have stormed into NRL premiership calculations, recording a thumping 52-4 victory over a mistake riddled Canberra Raiders outfit at Telstra Stadium on Sunday.

It was a dominant three try effort by talented Bulldogs backrower Sonny Bill Williams that secured the Bulldogs 11th victory of the season, with Canterbury boosted by the successful return from injury of stars Mark O’Meley and Luke Patten.

Canterbury’s dominance was built around a 58% possession share, with the Bulldogs blowing the Raiders off the park with a rampant six try first half effort.

It was a slice of luck that enabled the Raiders to open the scoring in the 7th minute, with a routine clearing kick ricocheting off a Bulldogs defender into the arms of Todd Carney.

The Raiders five-eight charged downfield before linking with Colin Best and Brett Kelly, with Carney again present in support to touch down wide out. Michael Dobson’s conversion attempt swung wide to leave the visitors leading 4-0.

The Bulldogs were able to level the scores just five minutes later, with a typically barnstorming effort by Sony Bill Williams seeing the Kiwi backrower carry four defenders over the line to score.

Hazem El Masri failed to convert from wide out into a stiff breeze to leave it at 4-all after 14 minutes.

Canterbury extended their lead in the 17th minute, with Williams again bulldozing his way through the Raiders defence to score beside the posts. El Masri’s conversion made it 10-4.

With the Bulldogs starting to dominate field position, it was a perfectly placed Brent Sherwin grubber in the 25th minute that saw Reni Maitua score off a goalpost ricochet. El Masri had no problems converting from in front to push the home side out to a 16-4 lead.

Sonny Bill continued a sensational half by setting up the Bulldogs fourth try, with the powerful backrower putting centre Daryl Millard into space before linking with El Masri to dive over for his 2000th career point.

El Masri’s sideline conversion sailed wide to leave Canterbury leading 24-4

Further tries to Millard and Cameron Phelps saw the home side take a commanding 30-4 lead into the half time break.

Canterbury continued their dominance early in the second half, with Millard finishing off a simple backline movement to score his second try of the day. El Masri converted from wide out t make it 36-4 after 45 minutes.

The scoreline was becoming embarrassing for the Raiders when Williams strolled over for this third try of the match, with a Ben Roberts try and a second to Phelps completing the ten tries to one rout.

The Bulldogs now travel to Suncorp Stadium next Friday night to do battle with the injury riddled Brisbane Broncos, whilst the Raiders will play host to the New Zealand Warriors next Saturday night.

Canterbury Bulldogs 52
Tries: Sonny Bill Williams 2, Daryl Millard 2, Cameron Phelps 2, Reni Maitua, Hazem El Masri, Ben Roberts
Goals: Hazem El Masri 6

Canberra Raiders 4
Tries: Todd Carney
Goals:

At Telstra Stadium
61
Vote
   


NRL News Poll - What's a bite worth?

August 8th 2007 03:08
Canterbury Bulldogs forward Brad Morrin will tonight front the NRL judiciary to recieve his suspension for admitting to biting Parramatta Eels star Timana Tahu during last Friday night's match at Telstra Stadium.

Speculation throughout the Sydney media is that Morrin could face a suspension from anywhere between 4 and 10 matches for the 30th minute incident, which the Bulldogs forward has already admitted and apologised for.

The last NRL player to receive a suspension for biting was former Cronulla foward Chris Beattie, who in 2001 was sidelined for 2 matches for nipping Eels lock Daniel Wagon.

If you missed the incident, here is a You Tube replay of the bite, supplied courtesy of www.footycentral.tk -




We here at NRL News beleive that Morrin should be suspended for six weeks for this disgraceful act, but what do you beleive is a fair sentence?

Please let us know your views via the comment section below.

Cheers,

StephenP
73
Vote
   


Bulldogs stun Dragons

July 28th 2007 11:34
The Canterbury Bulldogs recovered from a 14 point deficit to record a thrilling 28-24 victory over the St George-Illawarra Dragons at a bitterly cold WIN Stadium on Saturday night.

A dominant first half display from the Dragons saw them hold a convincing 14-4 half-time lead, but it was another typically gritty second half performance from the Bulldogs that saw them run in four second half tries to cement their position in the top eight.

After a scrappy start to the match, it was a 12th minute barge over try to Beau Scott that opened the scoring for the home side. Targeting a short blind side, it was a simple pass one off the ruck that saw Scott burst through two some flimsy Bulldogs outside defence to score wide out.

Dragons half Jamie Soward missed from wide out to leave the home side leading 4-0.

An Andrew Ryan high shot on Dragons prop Jason Ryles saw the Bulldogs captain placed on report, with Soward knocking over the simple penalty kick to make it 6-0.

St George-Illawarra extended their lead just five minutes later, with representative centre Matt Cooper finishing off another Dragons line break started by a rampant Soward. Soward again missed from wide out to leave the Dragons with a dominant 10-0 advantage.

A rampant Dragons backline movement pushed the Dragons out to a 14-0 lead on the half hour; with rookie centre Keith Lulia sprinting 40 metres to score, with Soward missing his third conversion attempt of the night.

The Bulldogs finally got on the board in the 36th minute, with mercurial winger Hazem El Masri latching onto a cross field bomb by Ben Roberts to score in the corner.

El Masri’s sideline conversion attempt swung wide in the stiff breeze, allowing the Dragons to go to the half time break with a handy 14-4 lead.

The Bulldogs started the second half in rampaging fashion, with Brent Sherwin weaving through the Dragons goal line defence before offloading to El Masri to score his second under the posts.

Hazem had no problems converting from right in front to close the gap to 14-10 in the 43rd minute.

Some dazzling footwork by Soward close to the line allowed the rookie half to dance through and score less than a minute later, with the young half’s conversion making it 20-10.

Interchange Bulldogs forward Nick Kouparitsas finished off a brilliant Willie Tonga break in the 52nd minute, with the talented centre beating three Dragons defenders before sending a booming inside cut out to the rampaging forward to score.

El Masri’s second conversion narrowed the gap to 20-16 with 25 minutes left to play.

In what was turning into an entertaining second half, Dragons centre Cooper scored his second try of the night, dotting down off a booming twenty metre Soward cut out pass in the 63rd minute.

Soward’s unhappy night with the boot continued with this fourth miss of the night leaving the Dragons clinging to a 24-16 lead.

A piece of individual brilliance by Sonny Bill Williams ensured an exciting finish to the match, with the powerful backrower stripping Ben Creagh in a one on one strip and bulldozing his way over beside the posts.

The visitors finally stole the lead in the 75th minute, when a booming Roberts bomb was failed to be cleaned up adequately, with replacement fullback Trent Cutler barging over for the match winner.

El Masri’s fourth goal of the night wrapped up a fantastic come-from-behind victory, 28-24.

The Dragons will travel to Energy Australia Stadium next Friday night to take on the Newcastle Knights, while the Bulldogs will play host to the third placed Parramatta Eels on Friday night.

Canterbury Bulldogs 28
Tries: Hazem El Masri 2, Nick Kouparitsas, Sonny Bill Williams, Trent Cutler
Goals: Hazem El Masri 4

St George-Illawarra Dragons 24
Tries: Beau Scott, Matt Cooper 2, Keith Lulia, Jamie Soward
Goals: Jamie Soward 2

At WIN Stadium
62
Vote
   


MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs

canterbury bulldogs nrl


Canterbury Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes has made just one change to the side that beat the Gold Coast Titans last Friday night, with the early return of winger Cameron Phelps from injury.

Rookie winger Heka Nanai returns to Jersey Flegg, with Phelps making an earlier than expecte dreturn from a depressed cheekbone injury sustained in Round 18. Rookie prop Fred Briggs retains his place on the bench.

Canterbury Bulldogs team to play St George-Illawarra Bulldogs at WIN Stadium:-

1. Luke Patten
2. Hazem El Masri
3. Daryl Millard
4. Willie Tonga
5. Cameron Phelps
6. Ben Roberts
7. Brent Sherwin
8. Jarrad Hickey
9. Corey Hughes
10. Chris Armit
11. Sonny Bill Williams
12. Andrew Ryan (c)
13. Reni Maitua

Interchange:
14. Adam Perry
15. Nick Kouparitsas
16. Brad Morrin
17. Fred Briggs

54
Vote
   


Bulldogs thrash Titans

July 20th 2007 11:44
The Canterbury Bulldogs consolidated their spot in the top eight at Carrara Stadium on Friday night, recording a comprehensive 36-12 victory over an injury riddled Gold Coast Titans outfit.

Canterbury’s six tries to two victory was built on a dominant performance by Bulldogs big guns Sonny Bill Williams, Reni Maitua and Andrew Ryan, with the Titans missing the leadership and direction of chief playmaking half Scott Prince.

The Bulldogs opened the scoring in the 18th minute, when a booming Brent Sherwin cut out pass on the last tackle, was tapped on by five-eighth Ben Roberts, providing Daryl Millard with a saloon passage to the corner.

Canterbury sharp shooter Hazem El Masri converted magnificently from the sideline to hand Canterbury a 6-0 advantage.

A brilliant Reni Maitua break just five minutes later put the visitors further ahead, with the evasive Bulldogs lock turning Titans fullback Preston Campbell inside out in a forty metre charge to the tryline.

El Masri had no problems converting from close range to push the Bulldogs out to a 12-0 lead after just 24 minutes.

The Bulldogs stretched their lead out to 18-0 in the 32nd minute with a converted try to rookie winger Heka Nanai, after the Gold Coast were again caught short out wide late in the tackle count.

Canterbury fullback Luke Patten extended the Bulldogs lead in the 34th minute, fending of seven Titans in an arching 30 metre run to the tryline. El Masri booted his fourth goal of the night to hand the visitors a commanding 24-0 lead.

Titans skipper Luke Bailey gave the visitors some hope of getting back into the game with a determined try a minute before the half-time break, with Brett Delaney’s conversion making it 24-6 in favour of the Bulldogs at the break.

After a glut of possession early in the second half, the Titans were able to close the gap to 24-12 in the 50th minute through a converted try to Bailey in the corner.

Another Maitua break on the fringes set Patten up for his second try of the night in the 56th minute, with El Masri duly converting to extend it to 30-12.

The Bulldogs all but sealed the match in the 59th minute, with a precision Sherwin cross field bomb snapped up by Millard to score his second try of the night. El Masri again converted from the sideline to make it 36-12.

The Titans tried desperately to claw their way back into the match over the closing stages, but were continually denied by determined Bulldogs defence, with the visitors closing out the match to register their ninth victory of the season.

Gold Coast now travels to Telstra Stadium next Saturday night to do battle with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, whilst the Canterbury Bulldogs meet the St George-Illawarra Dragons at WIN Stadium on the same night.

Canterbury Bulldogs 36
Tries: Daryl Millard 2, Luke Patten 2, Reni Maitua, Heka Nanai,
Goals: Hazem El Masri 6

Gold Coast Titans 12
Tries: Luke Bailey 2
Goals: Brett Delaney 2

At Carrara Stadium

Referee – Seam Hampstead
50
Vote
   


MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs

canterbury bulldogs


Canterbury Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes has made four changes to the team that lost to Penrith last Saturday, naming forward Fred Briggs to make his debut against the Gold Coast Titans this Friday night.

Willie Tonga returns in the centres from a groin injury this week, replacing the injured Cameron Phelps who sustained a cheek injury against the Panthers.

Chris Armit replaces the injured Willie Mason in the front row, with the big Origin forward set to miss the next eight weeks with a broken wrist.

Sonny Bill Williams returns from a rib injury with Nick Kouparitsas moving back to the interchange bench.

Canterbury Bulldogs team to face the Gold Coast Titans:-

1. Luke Patten
2. Hazem El Masri
3. Daryl Millard
4. Willie Tonga
5. Heka Nanai
6. Ben Roberts
7. Brent Sherwin
8. Jarrad Hickey
9. Corey Hughes
10. Chris Armit
11. Sonny Bill Williams
12. Andrew Ryan (c)
13. Reni Maitua

Interchange:
14. Adam Perry
15. Nick Kouparitsas
16. Brad Morrin
17. Fred Briggs





52
Vote
   


MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs


canterbury bulldogs nrl


The Canterbury Bulldogs have today put aside months of in-decision to re-sign with the Bulldogs until the end of the 2008 NRL season.

Hughes, 29, has played 181 first grade games for the Bulldogs making his debut against Adelaide in round 8, 1998. Hughes was glad that his future has now been sealed, with the nuggetty hooker now set to concentrate on Canterbury's 2007 premiership tilit.

"I'm pleased that it's all over and I can concentrate all my energy on football, said Hughes.

I want to thank my team mates and the coach for supporting me, I'm very lucky to playing with such a great group of guys. The major factor for deciding to stay was that I wanted to stay close to my extended family."

Meanwhile, Canterbury coach Steve Folkes has made only one forced change to the side that outlasted the Sharks last Sunday, with Brad Morrin replacing the injured Kane Cleal on the interchange bench. Clea will not play again this season after sustaining a broken jaw in the win over Cronulla.

Canterbury Bulldogs team to face the Penrith Panthers on Saturday:-

1. Luke Patten
2. Hazem El Masri
3. Daryl Millard
4. Willie Tonga
5. Cameron Phelps
6. Ben Roberts
7. Brent Sherwin
8. Mark O'Meley
9. Corey Hughes
10. Willie Mason
11. Sonny Bill Williams
12. Andrew Ryan (C)
13. Reni Maitua

Interchange:
14. Adam Perry
15. Nick Kouparitsas
16. Brad Morrin
17. Jarrad Hickey
56
Vote
   


The Canterbury Bulldogs have kept their finals hopes alive with a tight 14-12 victory over the Cronulla Sharks at Toyota Park on Sunday.

In what was a lethargic performance by both teams in slippery, cold conditions, it was a three try second half performance from a struggling Bulldogs outfit that saw them recover from a 12-0 half time deficit.

The Sharks opened the scoring in the eighth minute courtesy of a penalty goal to Luke Covell for a Bulldogs ruck infringement.

Cronulla were in again just two minutes later, with a brilliant break down the right hand wing by Mitch Brown putting the Sharks right on the attack.

The Sharks swept the ball wide form the ensuing play the ball, with Covell finishing off a breathtaking movement in the left hand corner. Covell converted from the sideline in difficult conditions to push the home side out to an early 8-0 lead.

With both teams showing a distinct lack of urgency in the slippery conditions, it was a favourable 6-2 penalty count that saw the home side camp inside the visitor’s territory for much of the first half.

Two further penalty goals to Covell saw the Sharks go to the break with a handy 12-0 advantage.

It took until the 56th minute before the Bulldogs finally posted their first point through a try to skipper Andrew Ryan.

Receiving the ball on the halfway line, Bulldogs centre Willie Tonga breezed through some feeble Sharks defence, before drawing the cover defence and offloading to Ryan to score. Canterbury super boot Hazem El Masri nailed the conversion to leave them trailing 12-6.

The Bulldogs were in again in the 68th minute, with a floating cross field kick by Brent Sherwin brilliantly taken by winger Cameron Phelps to score. El Masri’s conversion swung wide in the stiff breeze, to leave Canterbury trailing 12-10.

The Bulldogs finally hit the lead with a try to flashy centre Daryl Millard in the 68th minute, but El Masri again uncharacteristically missed the conversion.

Cronulla threw everything at the Bulldogs in the final ten minutes, but were unable to break the resilient visitor’s defensive line, with Canterbury holding onto record their third successive victory, 14-12.

Cronulla now travel to Aussie Stadium next Saturday night to take on the Sydney Roosters, while the Bulldogs play host to the Panthers at Telstra Stadium next Saturday night.

Canterbury Bulldogs 14
Tries: Andrew Ryan, Cameron Phelps, Daryl Millard
Goals: Hazem El Masri

Cronulla Sharks 12
Tries: Luke Covell
Goals: Luke Covell 4

At Toyota Park
58
Vote
   


Bulldogs name big guns

July 3rd 2007 04:58
MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs


canterbury bulldogs nrl


The Canterbury Bulldogs welcome back a host of big names ahead of this Sunday's vital clash with the Cronulla Sharks this Sunday.

Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes has named Origin representatives Hazem El Masri, Willie Mason and Andrew Ryan in the starting side for the Toyota Park clash, along with suspended prop Mark O'Meley.

The return of the star quartet means that Jarred Hickey, Kane Cleal and Nivk Kouparitsas all drop back to the bench, whilst Brad Morrin, Adam Brideson and Aaron Wheatkey all move back to Premier League. El Masri's wing replacement Heka Nanai returns to Jersey Flegg.

Canterbury Bulldogs team to meet Cronulla Sharks -

1. Luke Patten
2. Hazem El Masri
3. Daryl Millard
4. Willie Tonga
5. Cameron Phelps
6. Ben Roberts
7. Brent Sherwin
8. Mark O'Meley
9. Corey Hughes
10. Willie Mason
11. Sonny Bill Williams
12. Andrew Ryan (C)
13. Reni Maitua

Interchange:
14. Adam Perry
15. Nick Kouparitsas
16. Kane Cleal
17. Jarrad Hickey
41
Vote
   


Bulldogs demolish Roosters

July 2nd 2007 11:07
The Canterbury Bulldogs were back to their rampant best at Telstra Stadium on Monday night, registering a comprehensive 38-6 victory over a disappointing Sydney Roosters.

Another healthy Monday night football crowd of 20,772 were on hand to witness a dominant display by Bulldogs stars Brent Sherwin and Sonny Bill Williams, with the two instrumental in Canterbury’s seven tries to one victory.

After a mistake riddled start to the match, it was an incisive Brent Sherwin break that allowed Jared Hickey to open the scoring under the posts. Sherwin had no problems with the simple conversion pushing the home side out to an early 6-0 lead after just seven minutes.

The Bulldogs made it 12-0 after as many minutes when Sonny Bill Williams sliced through some lazy Roosters defence to score beside the posts.

On the back of some concerted goal line pressure, Sydney hit back with a barge over try to interchange forward Lopini Paea in the 28th minute. Rosters skipper Craig Fitzgibbon slotted the extras to narrow the gap to 12-6.

Video Referee Chris Ward was called onto adjudicate on what looked like Williams second try in the 34th minute, with Ward controversially ruling that the giant Kiwi backrower had lost the ball over the line.

The ‘Sonny Bill’ show continued three minutes later however, with the skilful backrower unleashing a magic over the head, one armed offload to allow centre Daryl Millard to cross wide out. Sherwin’s conversion attempt swung wide, but the Bulldogs went to the break with a handy 16-6 lead.

Canterbury extended their lead in the 50th minute, with Williams pouncing on a precision Sherwin grubber to dot down for his second four pointer. A brilliant conversion from wide out by Sherwin put the ‘Dogs out to a commanding 22-6 lead.

The Bulldogs wrapped up the match with a brilliant team try to winger Cameron Phelps in the 68th minute, with the tenacious wing crossing for his second try just two minutes later.

Hickey’s second try of the night completed the 32 point demolition, with the Bulldogs now sitting in tenth position on differentials.

The Canterbury Bulldogs will now do battle with the Cronulla Sharks at Toyota Park on Sunday, whilst the Sydney Roosters take on the Manly Sea-Eagles at Brookvale Oval on Saturday night.

Canterbury Bulldogs 38
Tries: Sonny Bill Williams 2, Cameron Phelps 2, Jared Hickey 2, Daryl Millard,
Goals: Brent Sherwin 4

Sydney Roosters 6
Tries: Lopini Paea
Goals: Craig Fitzgibbon

At Telstra Stadium

Referee – Jared Maxwell
Crowd – 20,772
48
Vote
   


Hazem El Masri on standby for NSW

June 29th 2007 05:26
MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs


canterbury bulldogs nrl


Canterbury Bulldogs pointscoring whiz Hazem El Masri has been has been placed on standby for injured NSW State of Origin and Manly Sea-Eagles centre Jamie Lyon.

El Masri will join the NSW camp tonight as insurance should Lyon fail to re-cover from a hamstring injury sustained in last Friday nights clash with the Bulldogs at Brookvale Oval.

El Masri has been on the cusp of selection for many a season, with the goal kicking winger set to make his Origin debut five years after making his International debut for Australia in 2002.


hazem el masri




* Photo courtesy of ww.abc.net.au here





47
Vote
   


Sonny Bill-Williams Statement

June 18th 2007 06:06
MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs


canterbury bulldogs logo



Canterbury Bulldogs star Sonny Bill-Williams this afternoon relased the following statement in response to recent off field incidents.

"I've let a lot of people down over the last couple of months, particularly myself. And I know the bad publicity that I've had has been alcohol related.

"I've been in this position before and this time I've come to the conclusion that enough's enough.

"With the help of the club I'll be taking drastic measures to make sure this doesn't happen again.

"I'll be seeking professional help with regards to alcohol and until myself and the Club feel this is under control I'll be off the drink."

Bulldogs CEO Malcolm Noad commented, "It's a big step for anyone to admit they may have alcohol problems. Sonny has taken that step.

"He has also taken the next step of asking for assistance in addressing this issue and we are fully supportive of him."

Noad added, "It has also been pointed out to Sonny that should there be any further incidents he's endanger of cutting short a very promising career."







50
Vote
   


Folkes drops Tonga, Roberts

June 12th 2007 05:48
MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs

canterbury bulldogs


Canterbury Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes has dropped a selection bombshell ahead of this Friday's crucial clash wish the Brisbane Broncos, with out of form centre Willie Tonga and five-eighth Ben Roberts relegated to Premier League.

The two high profile first grade players have both been dropped for discplinary reasons, with both players breaking the Bulldogs curfew policy after their match against the New Zealand Warriors two weeks ago.

Tonga has been replaced by Premier League centre Tim Wintana, whilst Daniel Holdsworth replaces five-eighth Ben Roberts in the top grade.

1. Luke Patten
2. Hazem El Masri
3. Daryl Millard
4. Tim Wintana
5. Cameron Phelps
6. Daniel Holdsworth
7. Brent Sherwin
8. Mark O"Meley
9. Corey Hughes
10. Willie Mason
11. Sonny Bill Williams
12. Andrew Ryan
13. Reni Maitua

Interchange -
14. Adam Perry
15. Nick Kouparitsas
16. Jarrad Hickey
17. Kane Cleal
46
Vote
   


MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs





Origin representatives Wilie Mason, Andrew Ryan and Mark O'Meley have all been named by coach Steve Folkes for the crucial encounter with the North Queensland Cowboys at Suncorp Stadium this Friday night.

While NSW forwards Mason and Ryan will be forced to back up less than 48 hours after Wednesday night's Origin match, O'Meley returns form a troublesome quad injury that has kept him out of the past two Bulldogs matches.

In a host of changes for the struggling Canterbury outfit, regular five-eight Daniel Holdsworth has been dropped to Premier League by Folkes, along with winger Trent Cutler. Andrew Emelio takes Cutler's position on the wing, whilst Daryl Millard returns to the centres after missing the loss to the SHarks with an ankle injury.


Canterbury Bulldogs Round 11 team-

Luke Patten
Hazem El Masri
Daryl Millard
Willie Tonga
Andrew Emelio
Ben Roberts
Brent Sherwin
Chris Armit
Corey Hughes
Willie Mason
Sonny Bill Williams
Andrew Ryan (C)
Reni Maitua


Interchange-

Adam Perry
Lee Te Maari
Kane Cleal
Jarrad Hickey
Nick Kouparitsas
Mark O'Meley

Coach - Steve Folkes

42
Vote
   


Bulldogs side to meet Sharks

May 15th 2007 07:10
MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs





Canterbury Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes has made four changes to the side that lost to the Melbourne Storm last night.

With Willie Mason and Andrew Ryan both away on NSW Origin duty, regular five-eight Daniel Holdsworth has been shifted into the second row with Ben Roberts promoted to the number six jersey.

Andrew Emelio has been named on the wing to replace Bulldogs leading try scorer Trent Cutler, with Brad Morrin coming onto a five man bench.

Canterbury Bulldogs side to meet Cronulla Sharks

1. Luke Patten
2. Hazem El Masri
3. Daryl Millard
4. Willie Tonga
5. Andrew Emelio
6. Ben Roberts
7. Brent Sherwin
8. Jarrad Hickey
9. Corey Hughes (C)
10. Chris Armit
11. Sonny Bill Williams
12. Daniel Holdsworth
13. Reni Maitua



Interchange -
14. Adam Perry
15. Lee Te Maari
16. Kane Cleal
17. Jon Green
19. Brad Morrin

COACH - Steve Folkes
58
Vote
   


Bulldogs too strong for Knights

May 6th 2007 07:52
The Canterbury Bulldogs returned to the winner circle at Telstra Stadium on Sunday, registering a convincing 30-10 victory over an injury depleted Newcastle Knights outfit.

With the Knights losing both of their first choice halves in Daniel Abraham and Jarrod Mullen to injury just before kick off, the visiting Novocastrians were always going to struggle against a steely determined Bulldogs outfit.

In a match that never really reached any great heights, the Bulldogs five tries to three victory was built on the back of a fired up forward display by Willie Mason and Sonny Bill Williams.

The Bulldogs posted first points in the 6th minute through Reni Maitua, with the powerhouse lock able to slice between some soft goal line defences to score adjacent to the posts. Canterbury sharp shooter Hazem El Masri had no problems with the relatively easy conversion to hand the home side the perfect start.

The first half resembled a rugged forward arm wrestle, with both sides preferring to play risk free rugby league. With the crowd growing restless, Bulldogs winger Matt Utai brought them to their feet with a long break down the left touchline, only to be brought down by a fantastic covering tackle by the Knights Kade Snowden. Unfortunately Snowden held on too long in the tackle, with referee Steve Clark sending the utility forward to the sin bin for ten minutes.

A glut of possession in good field position enabled Canterbury to extend their lead, with Luke Patten charging onto a pinpoint offload from Brent Sherwin to dot down in the 27th minute. El Masri notched his 1900th first grade point by converting Patten’s try, with the Bulldogs holding their 12-0 advantage to the break.

In what was a more enterprising second half, the Bulldogs came out firing after the break, with a Sonny Bill special putting El Masri over in the 43rd minute. Receiving the ball on the halfway line, Williams held off noted defenders Adam McDougall and Kurt Gidley to flick back to Daryl Millard. The young centre was then able to get on the outside of the Knights cover defenders, floating a line ball inside pass in field to El Masri to scoot away under the posts. The diminutive winger kept his perfect goal kicking record in tack to hand the Bulldogs a handy 18-0 advantage.

A perfectly executed rehearsed move put powerhouse Bulldogs winger Matt Utai over in the corner in the 50th minute, with two crafty draw and pass moves allowing the flying Kiwi flanker an unimpeded charge to the line. Another brilliant sideline conversion from El Masri put the result beyond on doubt at 24-0.

The Knights made a last ditch attempt at getting back into the game, with two quick tries to skipper Danny Buderus and James McManus to get them back to 24-10, but a second try to Patten with ten on the clock assured the two competition points would stay with the Bulldogs.

Newcastle added some respectability to the scoreboard with a converted try to Cory Paterson in the last minute, with the home side prevailing 30-16.

Canterbury now take on the Melbourne Storm at Olympic Park in what promises to be a classic Monday night encounter, whilst the injury ravaged Knights face off against the New Zealand Warriors in Newcastle next Saturday.

Canterbury Bulldogs 30
Tries: Reni Maitua, Luke Patten 2, Hazem El Masri, Matt Utai
Goals: Hazem El Masri 5

Newcastle Knights 16
Tries: Danny Buderus, James McManus, Cory Paterson
Goals: Kurt Gidley 2

At Telstra Stadium
47
Vote
   




"The Sydney Roosters have today signed Australian and NSW prop Mark O'Meley to a 4 year deal from 2008. O'Meley, 25, provides the Roosters with a tough and proven
representative competitor until 2011."


*quote - Sydney Roosters Media Release



Courtesy of this simple media release from the Sydney Roosters club yesterday afternoon, the league world had confirmation of one of the worst kept secrets in town - 'Shrek' was off to the Roosters!

Congratulations to both Mark O'Meley and the Sydney Roosters for securing their playing roster and future, but the length of O'Meley's contract is where I think Canterbury have made a big error in judgement.

On the 9th of March this year, the Bulldogs re-signed superstar backrower Sonny Bill Williams to a five year contract, which in effect sealed the fate of O'Meley in the blue and white jersey. Williams new contract, rumoured to have been in the millions of dollars, meant that the Belmore based club would be forced to lose either O'Meley, Hazem El Masri, Matt Utai, Ben Roberts or Corey Hughes due to salary cap restraints.

O'Meley was obviously going to be the main casualty out of the Williams re-signing, with the Test front rower preferring to test his value on the open market before informing Canterbury of his final decision.

Now I am not begrudging Sonny Bill for ultimately pushing O'Meley out of the club - it is quite obvious the game of rugby league has turned into a big business, and that contractual decisions should not be made on emotion alone.

What I am suggesting is the idea that would Canterbury have been better served in re-signing O'Meley for the same four-five year deal, and thus reluctantly letting the injury prone Williams set free?

I am not privvy to the exact monetary value between O'Meley's and Williams contracts, but I am sure that there would be a differing monetary value of between $100-$150k a season between the two. That monetary difference would mean the re-signing and contract upgrades of probably three of the above four players mentioned.

Canterbury Bulldogs CEO Malcolm Noad released an official statement yesterday afternoon, in regards to the Roosters signing of O'Meley, with his comments having subtle undertones as to current salary cap constraints.

Noad's official comments read:

"Mark has been a great servant to the Bulldogs Club for over five
seasons. He has always given his all when wearing the blue-and-white jersey and I have no doubt that will continue for the rest of 2007.

"We were always hopeful of re-signing Mark, but in the end we were not able to put forward a competitive offer with the Roosters.

"The reality with the salary cap is you have to balance keeping as many high profile players as you can whilst introducing new blood into the club. In this day and age you simply cannot keep all your high profile players.

"The whole issue of players signing with other clubs during the season can be an uncomfortable one. I commend Mark on the professionalism he has shown over the past few months while negotiations have been going on.

"I know that Mark's goal for 2007 still remains an NRL Premiership with the Bulldogs."


*quote - Canterbury Bulldogs media release


Whether or not Noad was taking a vague potshot at the NRL or the Roosters remains uncertain, but you can rest assured that the Bulldogs let the man known as 'Shrek' go reluctantly.

So who do you think Canterbury should have kept - the brilliant but injury prone Sonny Bill Williams, or the workaholic but older Mark O'Meley? And before making your comments, please take a look at the foolowing comparative stats :

2004
Sonny Bill Williams (debut season) - 15 games (13 off bench)
Mark O'Meley - 23 games (0 off bench)

2005
Sonny Bill Williams - 5 games (2 off bench)
Mark O'Meley - 14 games (0 off bench)

2006
Sonny Bill Williams - 21 games (6 off bench)
Mark O'Meley - 18 games (0 off bench)


We wouldlove to read your comments below!

Cheers,

StephenP.
72
Vote
   


MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury Bulldogs



Canterbury Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes has made four changes to the side that lost to the Wests Tigers last Friday night, with this weekends clash against the Knights seeing the return to the top grade for Matt Utai, Adam Perry and Kane Cleal.

Kiwi winger Utai replaces the out of form Trent Cutler on the wing, whilst Perry replaces Dallas McIlwain for a bench spot, and Cleal comes into the seventeen at the expense of the injured Mark O'Meley.





Canterbury Bulldogs Team to meet the Newcastle Knights @ Telstra Stadium,
Sunday May 6, 3pm

Luke Patten
Hazem El Masri
Daryl Millard
Willie Tonga
Matt Utai
Daniel Holdsworth
Brent Sherwin
Chris Armit
Corey Hughes
Willie Mason
Sonny Bill Williams
Andrew Ryan ( C )
Reni Maitua



Interchange:

Adam Perry
Lee Te Maari
Kane Cleal
Jarrad Hickey
53
Vote
   


Press Release - www.bulldogs.com.au

Canterbury Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes has made only one change to the side that beat the Parramatta Eels last Sunday, with Sonny Bill Williams coming into the starting side after recovering from a hamstring strain.

Folkes has dropped Kane Cleal back to Premier League in a bid for the backrower to achieve more game time, with impressive debutant Lee Te Maari keeping his spot on the bench.


Canterbury Bulldogs Team vs Wests Tigers


1. Luke Patten

2. Hazem El Masri

3. Daryl Millard

4. Willie Tonga

5. Trent Cutler

6. Daniel Holdsworth

7. Brent Sherwin

8. Mark O'Meley

9. Corey Hughes

10. Willie Mason

11. Sonny Bill Williams

12. Andrew Ryan ( C )

13. Reni Maitua



Interchange:

14. Dallas McIlwain

15. Chris Armit

16. Lee Te Maari

17. Jarrad Hickey
48
Vote
   


Bulldogs beat Eels in a thriller

April 22nd 2007 07:01
A 76th minute field goal to Canterbury five-eight Daniel Holdsworth was enough to return the Canterbury Bulldogs to the winners circle with a thrilling 21-18 victory over a spirited Parramatta Eels outfit at Parramatta Stadium this afternoon.

A healthy crowd of 18, 285 turned out in inclement weather conditions to watch an entertaining match between two clubs with a history of a bitter rivalry, with the match deadlocked at 18 all for much of the second half.

Holdsworth, one of the better Bulldogs players over the opening rounds of the premiership, showed great composure to slot a high pressure field goal from 35 metres out with only six minutes left on the clock.

The visitors opened the scoring in the 7th minute, when a sweeping backline movement saw prolific point scoring winger Hazem El Masri dot down in the corner. The nuggetty little winger was able to convert his own try from wide out to put the Bulldogs up 6-0 early.

The Eels struck back six minutes later through a try to Daniel Wagon, after a brilliant one handed offload from Brett Finch put the Eels veteran in under the posts. Parramatta fullback Luke Burt continued his superb recent goal kicking form to convert from out wide to level the scores at 6 all.

After setting up a try earlier, Finch scored a try of his own in the 13th minute, slicing through some soft Bulldogs defence out wide to score. Burt again converted from out wide to hand the Eels a 12-6 advantage.

It was a highly intense forward battle for much of the first half, with giant forwards Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Cayless, Willie Mason and Mark O’Meley showing no signs of self preservation.

Burt was able to extend his sides lead to eight with a penalty goal in the 27th minute, after a Bulldogs player was ruled accidentally offside in attempting to clean up a Trent Cutler mistake.

The Eels fullback kicked his fourth goal of the afternoon ten minutes later when Bulldogs lock Reni Maitua was penalised for holding down in the tackle, pushing the Eels out to a 16-6 lead.

A mistake by Eels winger Eric Grothe just before half time afforded Canterbury great field position, with Bulldogs winger Trent Cutler diving on a wonderfully waited attacking kick by five-eight Daniel Holdsworth to score right on the half time siren. El Masri landed a freakish sideline conversion to leave the Eels clinging to a 16-12 lead at the break.

A contentious penalty goal to Luke Burt in the 47th minute kicked the Eels clear 18-12, with El Masri harshly penalised for a shepherding run inside his own quarter.
The highly anticipated forward battle ensued for much of the second stanza, with Nathan Hindmarsh, Andrew Ryan, Mason and Cayless all getting through a mountain of work after backing up from Friday nights Test match.

Powerhouse Bulldogs prop Mason charged through some shoddy Eels goal line defence in the 59th minute, banging the ball down in trademark style adjacent to the posts. El Masri continued the excellent goal kicking display by booting his third goal for the afternoon, levelling the scores at 18 all on the hour mark.

Canterbury skipper Andrew Ryan looked to have put his side further ahead in the 65th minute when he barged over, only to have video referee Tim Mander rule no try due to Mason taking out Brett Finch earlier in the movement.

The final ten minutes of the half saw some frantic attacking play from both teams, with Holdsworth nailing a 35 metre field goal as soon as his side got within range.

A high shot by Eels utility Blake Green in the 78th minute allowed El Masri to seal the victory for the visitors, resigning the Eels to their first loss at home of the season.

The gallant Eels now face a desperate Gold Coast Titans side at Carrara Stadium next Sunday, while the Bulldogs clash with the Tigers at Telstra Stadium on Friday night.

Canterbury Bulldogs 21
Tries: Hazem El Masri, Trent Cutler, Willie Mason
Goals: Hazem El Masri 4, Daniel Holdsworth field goal

Parramatta Eels 18
Tries: Daniel Wagon, Brett Finch
Goals: Luke Burt 5

At Parramatta Stadium

Crowd – 18,285
44
Vote
   


Canterbury Bulldogs VS Manly Sea-Eagles @ Telstra Stadium, Saturday 14/04/07 7.30pm


In what promises to be an exciting clash, the undefeated and undermanned Manly Sea-Eagles face their first real test against a Bulldogs side that is just starting to run into form.

Manly have one their first four matches without the services of half Matt Orford, lock Steve Menzies and centre Steve Matai, with coach Des Hasler tailoring a game plan built around a grinding, forward dominated ruck battle. The Sea-Eagles have hardly allowed the class of flashy centres Jamie Lyon and Steve Bell to torment their opposition, preferring to let Watmough, Glenn Stewart, Kite and Williamson to gain the ascendancy in the middle.

The toiling Sea-Eagles pack will this week face their toughest test against probably the classiest forward pack in the premiership, with Canterbury coach Steve Folkes finally being able to name his strongest starting pack this year. O’Meley. Mason, Ryan, Armit and Cleal will provide the much needed go forward fro the Belmore based club, while Maitua, Williams and Hughes add the flair to an imposing looking forward unit.

With both backlines fairly evenly matched in terms of skill, size and pace, I think that this match will be won in the forwards. For that reason, you can’t go past the Bulldogs in what should be a tight encounter, with the super boot of Hazem El Masri to ensure the home side get the points in this one.

Prediction – Bulldogs by 8

Canterbury Bulldogs –
Luke Patten, Hazem El Masri, Daryl Millard, Willie Tonga, Trent Cutler, Daniel Holdsworth, Ben Roberts, Mark O’Meley, Corey Hughes, Willie Mason, Sonny Bill Williams, Andrew Ryan ©, Reni Maitua
Bench - Dallas McIlwain, Nick Kouparitsas, Kane Cleal, Chris Armit

Manly Sea-Eagles –
Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Steven Bell, Jamie Lyon, Chris Hicks, Travis Burns, Michael Monaghan, Jason King, Matt Ballin, Brent Kite ©, Anthony Watmough, Glenn Stewart, Luke Williamson
Bench - George Rose, Mark Bryant, Glenn Hall, Clint Halden

Referee – Paul Simpkins
52
Vote
   


Bulldogs bite the Easter Bunnies

April 6th 2007 11:57
The Canterbury Bulldogs sunk their teeth into the Red and Green Easter Bunnies tonight, demoralising South Sydney by 32-10 in front of a packed Telstra Stadium crowd.

After sweeping all before them thus far this season, the Rabbitohs were always going to be tested by a Canterbury Bulldogs outfit that has been far from impressive in the opening rounds.

It was an exciting opening to this highly anticipated clash, with play travelling from end to end throughout the opening half. Souths dominated the early exchanges and it looked as if the Bulldogs were out enthused early.

Fittingly it was the Bunnies who opened the scoring in the 13th minute through fullback David Peachey, who sliced through on an angled run off a neat inside ball from half Joe Williams. Williams had no problems with the conversion, and the Rabbitohs were up 6-0.

However the Bulldogs hit back just six minutes later, when a crafty little grubber kick from Ben Roberts was pounced on by Trent Cutler centimetres inside the dead ball line. Canterbury goal kicking whiz Hazem El Masri converted inches in from touch to level the scores at 6 all.

El Masri kicked his second goal minutes later after the Rabbitohs gave away a simple penalty.

Video Referee Bill Harrigan was called upon in the 29th minute to rule on a bizarre claim for a Canterbury try. Souths fullback David Peachey lost possession of the ball just one metre out, with Bulldogs skipper Andrew Ryan pouncing to claim a try. An undecided Harrigan put it back to referee Shayne Hayne, who in a critical call ruled No Try, declaring that Peachey had lost control after he had called held.

Bulldogs winger Trent Cutler showed why he has kept Test winger Matt Utai in Premier League so far this season, by barging through both Paul Mellor and Nigel Vagana to score his second in the 33rd minute. El Masri showed his class yet again by converting from the sideline to give the Bulldogs a handy 14-6 advantage at the break.

After a scrappy opening to the second half, the Bulldogs were the first to score through a rampaging converted try to Kane Cleal. Accepting a pass one off the ruck, the wild eyed back rower charged through the Rabbitohs defence to score adjacent to the posts.

Once the Bulldogs had had a sniff of victory, they went in for a quick kill. Centre Daryl Millard scored his side’s fourth try of the night in the 63rd minute, after some great lead up play from Corey Hughes and Ben Roberts. El Masri booted yet another from out wide, and the Bulldogs looked home at 26-6.

Canterbury saved their best for last, however, with a sweeping movement from inside their own half putting them in great field position. Some brilliant ball movement saw the ‘Dogs go from one side to the other, with a brilliant diving flick pass from Millard sending El Masri over in the corner. The nuggetty winger converted his own try to put the result beyond doubt at 32-6.

El Masri booted his seventh goal of the night through a penalty with five to go, but try scoring king Nathan Merritt had the last say right on fulltime. Accepting a cut out pass on the halfway line, Merritt beat his opposite and kicked ahead, outpacing everyone to dive on the ball in the corner, to finish the scoring for the night.

The only injury worries for the Rabbitohs were winger Paul Mellor who went off in the first half with a back complaint, whilst the Bulldogs seemingly finished injury free.

After having experienced their first loss of the season, Souths will seek redemption against Newcastle next Sunday at Gosford, whilst the Bulldogs host a mouth watering match with the Manly Sea-Eagles next Saturday.


Canterbury Bulldogs 34 (Trent Cutler2, Kane Cleal, Daryl Millard, Hazem El Masri tries; Hazem El Masri 7 goals)
Defeated
South Sydney Rabbitohs 10
(David Peachey, Nathan Merritt tries; Joe Williams goal)

At Telstra Stadium
50
Vote
   


Bulldogs outgun Titans

April 1st 2007 06:02
The Canterbury Bulldogs posted their first victory of the 2007 NRL season, with a comfortable 22-6 win over a determined Gold Coast Titans side at Telstra Stadium this afternoon.

In a match that never reached any great heights, the Bulldogs just did enough to record an eighteen point victory on the back of a strong effort from their all star forward pack.

It was a dour opening twenty minutes, with both sets of forward packs looking to gain the ascendancy. The Bulldogs had the better of the opening exchanges, with only desperate Titans defence thwarting some early points.

A play the ball infringement against Bulldog lock Reni Maitua enabled the Titans to open the scoring through a Preston Campbell penalty goal in the 22nd minute.

After enjoying the better of field position and possession, the Bulldogs controversially got on the board in the 32nd minute, when Willie Tonga supported an Andrew Ryan break to score under the posts. Referee Gavin Badger sent it upstairs to video referee Paul Simpkins, who judged that no Titans player was obstructed in Ryan’s initial line bust. Veteran winger Hazem El Masri booted his 29th straight goal, to give the home side a 6-2 advantage, which they took to the break.

Bulldogs winger Trent Cutler posted the Bulldogs second try of the afternoon, diving over in the far corner after some creative lead up work by half Ben Roberts. Hazem El Masri 30th consecutive goal attempt agonisingly swung wide, but the home side were in control at 10-2 after 50 minutes.

Mark O’Meley made up for some earlier handling errors by barging over two Titans defenders to score on the hour mark, with Hazem El Masri chalking up his 500th goal at Telstra Stadium to put the home side up 16-2.

The Titans stuck back ten minutes later through a Matthew Petersen try, after an Anthony Laffranchi off load bobbled loose, before being shuffled out to the frizzy haired winger to score out wide. Preston Campbell was unable to add the extras, and time was running out for the Titans at 16-6.

The Bulldogs shut out the match in the 76th minute through Trent Cutler’s second try of the afternoon, with Hazem El Masri’s third conversion handing the home side a gritty eighteen point victory.

Canterbury now meet the undefeated South Sydney Rabbitohs in a Good Friday night extravaganza, while the Titans face yet another tough away assignment in meeting the rampant Penrith Panthers at CUA Stadium next Sunday.


Canterbury Bulldogs 22 (Trent Cutler 2, Willie Tonga, Mark O’Meley tries; Hazem El Masri 3 goals)
Defeated
Gold Coast Titans 6
(Matthew Petersen try; Preston Campbell goal)
At Telstra Stadium
66
Vote
   


Canterbury Bulldogs VS Gold Coast Titans @ Telstra Stadium, 1/04/2007


The Gold Coast Titans face a real acid test today, as they travel to Telstra Stadium for their first ever away game, meeting a fired up Canterbury Bulldogs stinging after having lost their opening two premiership matches.

This game pits a side who blows teams off the paddock but dies in the second half (Bulldogs), versus a team who generally start slowly, and than storm home in the back half of matches (Titans).

The Bulldogs have a massive size advantage in the forwards against their more mobile Coast rivals, with Canterbury coach Steve Folkes sure to instruct giants Mason, O’Meley, McIlwain and Hickey to charge straight through the middle.

The Titans have impressed with their siege mentality defence thus far, but have not experienced a team with the size and skill that the Belmore based team has at their disposal.

If the Bulldogs are allowed to dominate the ruck and post early points, than the Titans may well be in for along afternoon in front of a massive pro-Bulldogs crowd. Folkes will have no doubt hammered into his charges this week the importance of competing for the full 80 minutes, and if the Doggies do this, than the Titans may well be on the end of a big score.

Look to the Dogs to win their first game of the year on the basis of their forward dominance, with centre Willie Tonga set to explode.

Canterbury Bulldogs Team - Luke Patten, Hazem El Masri, Daryl Millard, Willie Tonga, Trent Cutler, Daniel Holdsworth, Ben Roberts, Mark O'Meley, Corey Hughes, Willie Mason, Nick Kouparitsas, Andrew Ryan ©, Reni Maitua
Bench - Dallas McIlwain, Chris Armit, Kane Cleal, Jarrad Hickey

Gold Coast Team –
Preston Campbell, Lelea Paea, Matt Rogers, Jake Webster, Matthew Petersen, Matt Hilder, Scott Prince ©, Luke Bailey ©, Clint Amos, Kris Kahler, Anthony Laffranchi, Gavin Cooper, Luke Swain
Bench – Michael Henderson, Mark Minichiello, Josh Graham, Nathan Friend, Brad Meyers
55
Vote
   


Canterbury Bulldogs Round 3 Analysis

March 28th 2007 09:28









Look out Titans!

The Gold Coast franchise travels to Telstra Stadium this Sunday to take on a Bulldog's side keen to unleash two weeks of pent up frustration and aggression after their frustrating start to the season.

After narrowly losing to a 'Joey-less' Newcastle side in the first round, the Bulldogs delivered an inept performance against Penrith last Friday night. The Belmore based club looked tired and ill-discplined in going down by 30 points against the men from the foot of the mountains.

Halfback ben Roberts will be given one more week to cement his spot in the top grade, with veteran half Brent Sherwin impressing in Premier League last weekend. Canterbury coach Steve Folkes has also recalled Corey Hughes to the starting hooking role, with Adam Perry being dropped to Premier League.

For Canterbury fans, Kiwi Test winger Matt Utai returns from an ankle injury sustained in the pre-season trials.


Injuries -
Sonny Bill-Williams - head high tackle charge – Round 4
Brad Morrin - Knee - Round 4

Team VS Gold Coast Titans :-

Luke Patten, Hazem El Masri, Daryl Millard, Willie Tonga, Trent Cutler, Daniel Holdsworth, Ben Roberts, Mark O'Meley, Corey Hughes, Willie Mason, Nick Kouparitsas, Andrew Ryan ©, Reni Maitua
Bench - Dallas McIlwain, Chris Armit, Kane Cleal, Jarrad Hickey
49
Vote
   


Penrith Panthers VS Canterbury Bulldogs @ CUA Stadium
Friday, 23rd March, 2007


ANALYSIS

With both sides coming off first round losses, you can expect this to be a fiery, forward dominated clash. This match offers two of the biggest forward packs in the competition, with the Panthers sic having a slight advantage in experience over their Belmore based rivals.

What the Bulldogs pack lacks in experience, they more than make up for in skill, with coach Steve Folkes set to use a four man forward interchange against the mountain men, with internationals Mason, O’Meley, Maitua and Ryan set to see the majority of the game time.

New Panthers coach Matt Elliott will look to exploit the Bulldogs smaller wingers at every opportunity, with the Panthers Luke Rooney and Nick Youngquest having a considerable high advantage over the ‘Dogs Hazem El Masri and Trent Cutler. Rival centres Willie Tonga and Luke Lewis are sure to be in each others faces all night, whilst Penrith skipper Craig Gower will try to dominate rookie Bulldogs half, Ben Roberts.

Canterbury should win this match on a cool night at the foot of the Blue Mountains, but don’t expect a cricket score in this one. Penrith will be fired up after being held to nil last week against the Sharks, so look for an opening attacking onslaught as the Panthers look to register their first points of the season. If the Bulldogs can hold the Panthers early, and arrest their alarming second half record, than they will have enough talent and skill to get away with the two competition points.
Canterbury Bulldogs to win.



DANGER MEN

Panthers – Craig Gower, Luke Priddis, Luke Lewis, Joel Clinton, Rhys Wesser
Bulldogs – Willie Tonga, Willie Mason, Mark O’Meley, Reni Maitua, Hazem El Masri


INJURIES AND SUSPENSIONS

Penrith Panthers -
Shane Rodney - Shoulder - Unknown

Canterbury Bulldogs-Sonny Bill-Williams - head high tackle charge – Round 4
Brent Sherwin - Ankle - Round 3
Matt Utai- Ankle - Round 3
Corey Hughes - Ankle - TBA
Brad Morrin - Knee - Round 3

TEAMS

Penrith Team – Rhys Wesser, Luke Rooney, Luke Lewis, Michael Gordon, Nick Youngquest, Peter Wallace, Craig Gower ©, Frank Puletua, Luke Priddis, Joel Clinton, Frank Pritchard, Tony Puletua, trent Waterhouse
Bench – Junior Moors, Nathan Smith, Paul Aiton, Matthew Cross, Brendan Worth

Canterbury Team – Luke Patten, Hazem El Masri, Daryl Millard, Willie Tonga, Trent Cutler, Daniel Holdsworth, Ben Roberts, Mark O'Meley, Adam Perry, Willie Mason, Nick Kouparitsas, Andrew Ryan ©, Reni Maitua
Bench - Dallas McIlwain, Chris Armit, Kane Cleal, Jarrad Hickey
46
Vote
   


Canterbury Bulldogs Round 1

March 14th 2007 11:06
Canterbury Bulldogs Analysis -










Canterbury have named a near full strength teams for this Sunday's clash against the Newcastle Knights, with only half Brent Sherwin and nuggety winger Matt Utai unavailable through injury.

While both should return for next weeks clash against the Panthers, Coach Steve Folkes has still been able to name seven representative stars in his squad of 17. Kiwi superstar Sonny Bill Williams will start the game in the second row, with former Souths and Manly forward Kane Cleal making his debut for the 'Dogs.

Livewire half Ben Roberts gets another chance to shine in the top grade this week, with centre Daryl Millard also making his debut for the Belmore based club.


Injuries:-

Matt Utai - Ankle (ligaments) - Round 2
Brent Sherwin - Ankle Round 2
Brad Morrin - Knee - Round 2

Team VS Newcastle :-

Luke Patten, Hazem El Masri, Daryl Millard, Willie Tonga, Trent Cutler, Daniel Holdsworth, Ben Roberts, Mark O'Meley, Corey Hughes, Willie Mason, Sonny Bill Williams, Andrew Ryan ©, Reni Maitua
Bench - Dallas McIlwain, Chris Armit, Kane Cleal, Jarrad Hickey
47
Vote
   


Sonny Bill Williams

Every Thursday, we will provide you with some of the biggest abd hardest tackles in the NRL, courtesy of YouTube


One of the brightest young stars in the game today, Cabterbury Bulldogs forward Sonny Bill Williams has forged a fearsome reputation as one of the NRL's most fearful defenders - At only 19 years of age!!

Sonny Bill debuted for the Bulldogs at the raw age of 17, and his first season was mainly remebered for his punishing shoulder charges on helpless ball carriers. The video below shows Sonny Bill smashing renowned Sydney Roosters Utility, Chris Flannery, in a massive hit.





One of the more notorious Sonny Bill hits, came in the 2004 NRL finals - Sonny Bills maiden year. The Canterbury Bulldogs were playing the Penrith Panthers, and Penrith were leading just before half time. Respected Panthers hard man, Joel Clinton was making a mandatory hit up, and then this happend.........



A MASSIVE HIT!!

As long as the injury prone Williams can stay fullt fit for the rest of his career, than the quietly spoken, big Kiwi forward may go down in rugby league history as one of the most punishing defenders the game has ever seen.

I would just hate to have his shoulders when he turns 50!!


*Both Videos are courtesy of YouTube


Cheers,

StephenP


67
Vote
   


Oracle of Delphi's Blogs

114513 Vote(s)
1340 Comment(s)
2115 Post(s)
14204 Vote(s)
224 Comment(s)
162 Post(s)
27230 Vote(s)
210 Comment(s)
376 Post(s)
58814 Vote(s)
859 Comment(s)
760 Post(s)
211 Vote(s)
0 Comment(s)
4 Post(s)
42178 Vote(s)
3344 Comment(s)
388 Post(s)
33 Vote(s)
0 Comment(s)
1 Post(s)
22050 Vote(s)
271 Comment(s)
324 Post(s)
7406 Vote(s)
1 Comment(s)
107 Post(s)
Moderated by Oracle of Delphi
Copyright © 2006 2007 2008 On Topic Media PTY LTD. All Rights Reserved. Design by Vimu.com.
On Topic Media ZPages: Sydney |  Melbourne |  Brisbane |  London |  Birmingham |  Leeds     [ Advertise ] [ Contact Us ] [ Privacy Policy ]