The Serve

Stop Sonny Bill stop the Dogs

The Bulldogs were not as bad as the 38-6 scoreline against Melbourne would suggest, however there are major concerns about the Dogs, with only one match before the finals to rectify them.

This was not a match that suited them. Rookie referee Ben Cummins was strangely awarded this marquee match, with his lack of control at the ruck a big help to the Storm. Cummins handled the Tigers against Parramatta in a Monday night game earlier this year and faced a similar problem. The Eels kept the Tigers pinned in tackles and by the time Cummins reacted, the match was dead. Melbourne pride their game on the wrestle, and it went unabated. A hindrance for the Dogs but certainly not the reason the Dogs were beaten tonight.

When the Bulldogs were on the attack, they seemed to lack options. Passes were slow with any sideways movement easily countered. That their only try came via a barge over from Jarrod Hickey is apt. It seems when the Dogs are in a crisis, they simply give it to a big man, usually Sonny Bill, and hope it’s enough. Creativity has disappeared. If the barge doesn’t work, there’s no Plan B.

Melbourne didn’t exactly stop Sonny Bill tonight, but they went a fair way to cancelling him out. Two defenders were on him when the Dogs were attacking, and it worked. Well constructed movements nowhere to be seen.

Brent Sherwin and Ben Roberts don’t appear to be natural combination. Roberts is a capable individual, however it’s no surprise to see the likes of Tonga and Millard well down on tries. They don’t get enough of a chance.

The Bulldogs have enough talent on their roster to be a serious threat, even if they finish seventh or eighth. But they are resembling North Queensland, a team that relies on individual brilliance.

Can win some games, but doesn’t usually win the big dance.