Bulldogs End Losing Streak with Comeback Win Over Storm

The Canterbury Bulldogs defeated the Melbourne Storm 30-20, snapping a five-match losing streak in Friday night's NRL clash.

Rookie prop Jack Underhill played a pivotal role in just the second NRL match of his career.

Match Summary

The Bulldogs secured an 18-6 comeback victory over the Storm, with Jacob Kiraz sealing the win in the 78th minute.

Key Moments

In the first half, Underhill made an impactful tackle on Storm back-rower Alec MacDonald, shifting momentum in the Bulldogs' favor.

With the score tied 20-20 at a critical juncture, Underhill charged down a kick from Jahrome Hughes. Referee Wyatt Raymond initially ruled the play a knock-on, but Underhill encouraged his team to challenge the call using the Captain's Challenge. Video review overturned the decision, and the Bulldogs retained possession. Three sets later, they scored to take the lead.

Player Performance

Underhill, 21, recorded the following statistics during 34 minutes of play:

• 10 hit-ups for 101 meters
• One off-load
• Five tackle busts

Player Background

Underhill joined the Bulldogs system in 2023, playing SG Ball Cup and later being part of the 2024 Jersey Flegg Cup premiership.

He was previously released by the Sunshine Coast Falcons, a Storm feeder club, before joining the Bulldogs.

He described the transition to Sydney as a "culture shock."

Former Bulldogs player Josh Jackson coached and encouraged Underhill. Underhill also credited Bulldogs official Hemmo for his development.

Underhill lost his mother to cancer at age seven and has a tattoo in her memory.

Player Comments

Underhill described his tackle on MacDonald as "lucky" and said the reception from teammates was a "big confidence boost."

He stated he was confident he had not knocked on during the chargedown, which led to the successful challenge.