STRONG defence has helped Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs win their first Jersey Flegg Cup premiership since 2003 after defeating the Sydney Roosters 22-20 in the Grand Final at CommBank Stadium on Sunday.
The Bulldogs reaffirmed their reputation as the most successful club in the Jersey Flegg Cup, having now won 10 premierships since the competition started in 1961.
Bulldogs Captain Joseph O’Neill was named Player of the Match for his impressive kicking game that proved a challenge for the Roosters outside backs.
The Roosters were the first to open the scoring but the Bulldogs hit back soon after with tries to winger Jordi Mazzone and back-rower Harry Hayes to take their team out to a 10-4 lead.
The Roosters found themselves out in front in the 32nd minute but the Dogs were first to score in the second half as centre Danny Gabrael went in and Joash Papalii added the extra two points to place the ‘Dogs in front 16-14.
After being held up in the in-goal area twice, Mazzone finally found the try line to cross over for his second try of the day.
The Roosters hit back in the 63rd minute, trailing 22-20 with seven minutes remaining.
Late errors from the Roosters and strong defence from the Bulldogs in the final moments of the game, saw the blue and white seal the win – their first in two decades.
Bulldogs coach Luke Vella said it meant a lot to the club.
“Hats off to the team, they bought into everything we spoke about, and they can now enjoy themselves,” he said.
“I am just so happy to be their coach and I am very proud of their efforts.”
