NRL Finals 2024: Bulldogs Triumph in Thrilling Clash Against Sea Eagles

The Canterbury Bulldogs emerged victorious in a gripping encounter against the Manly Sea Eagles during the 2024 NRL finals. The match commenced with both teams displaying strong defensive sets, resulting in no score for the initial three minutes. However, the Bulldogs capitalized on an early error by Sea Eagles star Tom Trbojevic to break the deadlock.

Jacob Preston applied pressure, forcing Trbojevic to fumble the ball, allowing the Bulldogs an advantageous scrum feed. Jacob Kiraz exploited the opening, darting into the corner. The Bulldogs took an early 4-0 lead after eight minutes.

The Sea Eagles swiftly responded through Tommy Talau, contorting mid-air to secure a try, with Reuben Garrick converting from the touchline and putting Manly ahead 6-4.

Not long after, Viliame Kikau broke through Manly’s defenses, aided by slips from Lehi Hopoate and Reuben Garrick. This try, together with Matt Burton‘s conversion, put the Bulldogs back in the lead, 10-6.

Stephen Crichton further extended the Bulldogs’ lead with a beautifully executed try following a Matt Burton chip kick. Crichton managed to outstretch Tommy Talau to the ball, grounding it just before Talau, much to the disbelief of commentator Andrew Voss.

Manly attempted to stage a comeback just before halftime, with Ethan Bullemor scoring to narrow the gap. Yet, an earlier incident involving what appeared to be a shoulder charge by Bullemor resulted in him being placed on report.

The Bulldogs’ defense held strong in the latter half, maintaining their lead and securing a well-earned victory. The tense match ended with a final score of Bulldogs 16, Sea Eagles 12, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the continuation of the 2024 NRL finals.