Six months ago everyone at Belmore was convinced this was the start of a bold new era… come September the Dogs are left licking their wounds and wondering where it all went wrong.
A new coach and some fine new players should have produced better results, but Canterbury only managed to beat the two basket-case clubs – the Dragons and Tigers – home over 27 rounds.
Worst of all, the season finished on a sour note with a player walking out on the club after allegations of mistreatment.
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Complaints from players that Cameron Ciraldo pushed them too hard have only thrown fuel onto the fire and the Bulldogs need to conduct a frank and honest season review – ASAP.
Best player: Going from a team that made the grand final to a battling outfit can’t be easy, but Reed Mahoney gave his heart and soul every week and is one player who can hold his head high despite the club’s poor season.
Biggest disappointment: Tevita Pangai Junior was a player with immense ability and he should have been the leader of the pack at Belmore – but too often went missing when his younger teammates needed him. Moving to boxing looks like a smart move – hopefully, he will have more success there.
Key signing: Panthers centre Stephen Crichton is a big-match player who knows how to get over the tryline at crucial times. His class will add strike power to the Bulldogs’ attack.
2024 gains: Bronson Xerri (return from ban), Stephen Crichton (Panthers), Blake Taaffe (Rabbitohs), Jaeman Salmon (Panthers).
2024 losses: Jake Averillo (Dolphins), Tevita Pangai Junior (retired).