Canterbury Bulldogs’ Form and Future Prospects
Canterbury Bulldogs’ football boss, Phil Gould, has expressed that he is “not too worried” about the team’s performance following an unexpected loss to the Brisbane Broncos. Despite the Broncos having a depleted side, they managed to secure a comprehensive 32-12 victory on Friday night.
The Bulldogs are currently sitting at 3-4 for the season, with one of their wins coming against the formidable Penrith team. This win has encapsulated the Bulldogs’ inconsistent season so far, with fluctuations in performance being a recurring theme.
Gould, however, highlighted some positive aspects from the recent loss. He noted that there were encouraging signs from the team’s performance, stating:
“We’re OK. We’re going through a little bit of a rough patch at the moment,” he said on Nine’s 100% Footy.
“The Broncos were very good, as we expected them to be. They’ve got great depth in their roster up there and played some good football.
“I thought there was some really good signs for the Bulldogs, I thought some of our football on the night was really good and showed great signs for the future.
“But on getting the ball across the lines and scoring the tries, that’s where the Broncos had it over us. Adam Reynolds was outstanding, his kicking game was really good as Mitchell Moses’ was the week before for Parramatta when they upset the Bulldogs.
“So having that fella who can control the game and keep them on the front foot made a big difference but I’m not too worried about the scoreboard, I don’t think the scoreboard was a great reflection. But by the same token we’ve hit a rough patch and need to get through it.”
The Bulldogs have faced intense scrutiny over their current form, which includes two consecutive losses. On Nine’s Sunday Footy Show, Andrew Johns reiterated his belief that Lachlan Galvin belongs at five-eighth instead of halfback. This presents a challenge for the Bulldogs, given that promising young player Mitch Woods has been dealing with injury issues, while Matt Burton is more suited to the No.6 position.
Burton could potentially switch to the centres, but Bronson Xerri and Stephen Crichton are the preferred options there.
Coach Cameron Ciraldo was asked about Galvin’s suitability for the No.7 jersey after the Broncos loss and pointed to his performance against the Panthers.
“Do you think two weeks ago (against Penrith) that he was? He’s a 20-year-old half at the moment,” he said.
“He would have got a great lesson from a guy who’s had 15 years doing what he is doing but they are only lessons if you learn.”
The Bulldogs are set to face the Cowboys on Friday night, marking another crucial match in their season. As they navigate through this challenging period, the focus will be on overcoming the current difficulties and building momentum for the upcoming games.
