Canterbury scored a grinding 14-6 win against a North Queensland side missing Johnathan Thurston and Matt Scott in Round 22 last year.
Playing under caretaker-coach Jim Dymock following the sacking of Kevin Moore, the Bulldogs were inspired by back-rower Frank Pritchard who produced a series of massive hits during the early stages that set the Cowboys back on their heels. And although it took 25 minutes for first points to be posted, Pritchard’s efforts were eventually rewarded as Josh Reynolds crossed for a simple try.
Canterbury led by a single converted try at the break but it was soon 12-0 when Trent Hodkinson strolled through and found Steve Turner looming up in support on the inside to score. A Turner penalty goal then sealed victory at 14-0 before North Queensland scored a late consolation through Brent Tate to finally get themselves on the scoreboard.
There were a number of standout performers for the Bulldogs, with Jonathan Wright running for 149 metres with eight tackle-breaks, and Jamal Idris adding 133 metres and two line-breaks.
James Tamou impressed with 164 metres for the visitors.
