The Canberra Raiders NSW Cup side suffered their first loss of the season after they went down to the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs 26 – 20 this Sunday afternoon.
The match started off with a bang, after quick thinking from Adam Cook opened the door for centre Prinston Esera to score in the first three minutes. Canberra forwards continued to bulldoze, with Peter Hola scoring Raiders second try of the day.
Bulldogs defence struggled to hold on as a slick intercept from Mitch Henderson brought the ball back into Raiders side of the field, with winger Nick Cotric sealing the deal as he scored the Raiders' third try of the day.
Adam Cook added the extras to two tries bringing the score to 16 – 0 at 19 minutes.
The Dogs finally crossed the line with Lachlan Vale scoring their first try of the day. A successful conversion from Toby Sexton brought the score to 16 – 6 at half time.
Bulldogs proved their determination to bounce back as they kick-started the second half with a try from forward Harry Hayes in the first thirty seconds, followed not long after by a try from Kitione Kautoga, quickly bringing the score to an even 16 all.
The match remained even with both teams playing set for set until Bulldogs captain Toby Sexton scored two tries back-to-back. Coupled with one conversion, the Bulldogs got the lead 26 - 16.
After a back-and-forth contest, Raiders Prinston Esera scored the Raiders first and final try of the second half, bringing the final match score to 26 – 20.
The Raiders will be looking to bounce back next weekend as they play the North Sydney next Sunday 21st April, 3pm at North Sydney Oval.
