Canterbury coach Cameron Ciraldo witnessed a brief but promising display of the Bulldogs’ left-edge attack during their narrow 20-16 defeat to South Sydney. However, this glimpse of offensive potency was short-lived, marking the second occasion this season that it was abruptly halted.
Leading 12-10 just before halftime on Good Friday, Canterbury’s offensive rhythm seemed rejuvenated, reminiscent of their form from years past. Matt Burton exuded confidence, Viliame Kikau exhibited powerful ball-running, while the speedsters Josh Addo-Carr and Stephen Crichton posed a constant threat out wide.
For once, a team that has struggled offensively in the NRL for the past seven years appeared genuinely dangerous. But their momentum was disrupted when Addo-Carr sustained a knock to the head from an accidental collision with Latrell Mitchell as he dashed for the try line, leaving him unconscious.
Although Addo-Carr was seen on the sideline later in the game, it’s now confirmed he will miss the upcoming clash with the Sydney Roosters. This adds to his limited playing time this season due to a previous shoulder injury in round one.
Ciraldo expressed disappointment at the timing of Addo-Carr’s injury, recognizing the team’s momentum was building just before halftime. Despite the setback, he remained confident in the team’s ability to perform, albeit acknowledging the challenges posed by personnel changes in the second half.
Additionally, Ciraldo hinted at other frustrations, notably refraining from commenting on a potential hip-drop tackle on Jacob Preston by Jack Wighton, which caused an error in attack. Preston, who finished the game with an ankle injury, declined to discuss the legality of the tackle, echoing a sentiment of acceptance towards the physical nature of the sport.
While commentators speculated on the nature of the tackle, with Andrew Johns suggesting it resembled a hip-drop motion, Ciraldo refrained from offering a definitive opinion, indicating a lack of close observation. Preston, for his part, opted not to undergo scans for his ankle and remained tight-lipped about the tackle from Wighton, demonstrating a pragmatic attitude towards the challenges inherent in rugby league.