Tracey’s Heroics Steer Bulldogs to Crucial Victory Amidst Off-Field Storm
Canterbury Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo has lauded the exceptional performance of fullback Connor Tracey, whose match-saving tackle and crucial try were instrumental in salvaging a positive end to a turbulent week for the club. The Bulldogs managed to shake off mounting speculation surrounding centre Bronson Xerri’s future, securing their second consecutive win to kick off the season with a hard-fought 14-10 victory over the Canberra Raiders at GIO Stadium. This marks the first time since 2012 that the Bulldogs have started a season with back-to-back wins.
The Bulldogs’ preparations for their clash with the Raiders were overshadowed by reports suggesting Xerri was discontent and contemplating a release from his contract, particularly after being dropped for the Thursday night fixture. However, the team demonstrated remarkable resilience, effectively compartmentalising their off-field dramas to deliver a performance that silenced the doubters.
The match itself was a gruelling affair, played out in relentless rain in the nation’s capital. The Raiders started strongly, but Canterbury’s defence, a hallmark of their early-season performances, proved exceptionally stout, stifling Canberra’s attacking raids. The game evolved into a gritty contest, with both teams struggling to break down the opposition’s defensive lines.
The turning point came late in the second half. After Jacob Preston burrowed over for a try in the 71st minute, it seemed the Bulldogs had sealed the deal. However, Canberra winger Savelio Tamale responded almost immediately, crossing the line to set up a nail-biting finish. With the Raiders pushing for a last-gasp victory, halfback Ethan Sanders made a determined surge towards the try line, only to be denied by a spectacular and courageous tackle from Tracey, securing the win for Canterbury.
“I genuinely believe the try saves were the singular reason we won this game,” Ciraldo remarked post-match. “Tracey has been putting in a tremendous amount of work on that aspect of his game, and he delivered on multiple occasions tonight. We handled the off-the-field dramas exceptionally well. We have strong leaders within the squad, like Stephen Crichton, who have been instrumental in keeping the team focused and united.”
Ciraldo also highlighted the impact of Enari Tuala, who deputised for Xerri. He described Tuala’s defensive contribution as “GPS-like” after he too was involved in preventing a try for the Bulldogs.
For the Canberra Raiders, the match represented a missed opportunity to celebrate Ricky Stuart’s 300th game as head coach with a victory. Despite the loss, Savelio Tamale emerged as a standout performer for the Raiders, crossing for two tries, amassing an impressive 238 metres with the ball, and breaking seven tackles.
The Raiders’ aspirations of contending for the minor premiership have already faced scrutiny following a heavy 40-6 defeat to the Warriors in Auckland the previous Friday.
Stuart, while disappointed with the outcome, urged his team not to dwell on the near-miss by Sanders. “I don’t want them to let that one play cloud their judgement of their overall performance,” Stuart stated. “I’ll be reviewing the areas where we can undoubtedly improve and lift our game. However, if they can continue to bring that level of effort week in and week out, I will be more than satisfied.”
The Raiders drew first blood within the opening four minutes. A series of well-executed passes found Tamale in space on the left edge, and he powered over to score.
Canterbury quickly responded. After forcing Tamale into touch, they launched a swift counter-attack downfield, culminating in Tracey touching down for their first try.
The Raiders’ task became more challenging when Josh Papali’i was sin-binned for a high tackle. Despite the numerical advantage, Canterbury could only manage a penalty goal during this period, a testament to Canberra’s determined defence.
With less than ten minutes remaining, Tracey made a decisive break through the Raiders’ middle defence. Moments later, the ball found a rampaging Jacob Preston, who fought his way over the line to put the Bulldogs ahead.
The Raiders mounted an immediate response. Young received an offload from Sebastian Kris and found Tamale, who looked set to score. However, the Bulldogs’ defence held firm, completing a crucial tackle to secure their hard-earned victory.
