Bulldogs record fourth straight victory

The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Jersey Flegg side have scored an impressive 30-6 victory over the ladder-leading Cronulla Sharks at Belmore Sports Ground.

The Sharks have been the standout side all season and had only suffered one defeat heading into the round 16 fixture against the Bulldogs.

Led by an 18-point haul from halfback Jake Averillo, Canterbury’s fourth straight win was set up by an outstanding first half and a brilliant defensive display across the entire match.

The game was an arm wrestle for the opening 15 minutes, before the Dogs crossed for the opening try of the match thanks to Averillo. The half converted his own try to give the home side an early 6-0 lead.

Two further tries from the Bulldogs through prop forward Devontai Seumanutafa in the 24th minute and outside back Frank Kueresa just before half-time, as well as two conversions and a penalty goal from Averillo gave Canterbury a 20-0 lead at the break.

Averillo grabbed his second try four minutes into the second half to extend the Bulldogs lead to 26.

Cronulla came into the match five points clear at the top of the table and it took the visitors 51 minutes to score their only try of the match through prop forward Thomas Hazelton. Jonah Ngaronoa converted and cut the Dogs lead to 20.

The 30-6 victory was sealed when fullback Declan Casey crossed for his sixth try of the season only minutes away from full time. Averillo was unable to convert, but the number seven finished the day with two tries and five goals.

The win sees the Bulldogs climb to fifth on the ladder with a bye next weekend.