The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs won just six matches in 2014 – but coach Andy Patmore predicts this season will be a whole lot better.
Last year the Bulldogs finished 11th in the competition (or third last), and Patmore believes the 2015 season will provide more for those in blue and white to smile about.
“We’ve certainly got more depth this year… especially in the front row,” Patmore says.
“Last year we were a very young side and we tried hard… but we should be better now those younger players have more experience. And the good thing is the kids coming from the NYC this year are more mature and provide greater depth and more quality.”
Patmore said it would be hard to replace outgoing forward Harlan Alaalatoa, headed for French rugby union, but at the same time pointed to a new level of depth in the forwards.
“Harlan made a big difference to our side when he played for us – he was our rock,” Patmore said.
“Often, though, he was 18th man for first grade. We missed him on occasions. It’s great, though, that he’s getting an opportunity to play footy overseas. We’re really proud.
“With guys like Antonio Kaufusi and Danny Fualalo at the club, we’ve got some handy replacements… I believe we can have a good year.”
The Bulldogs open their 2015 VB NSW Cup campaign with the most difficult of match-ups – an away clash against last year’s premiers Penrith.
GAINS: Antonio Kaufusi (Bradford Bulls), Jared McInally (Easts Tigers – Qld Cup), Matt Frawley (Raiders), Curtis Rona (Cowboys), Adam Elliott, Robbie Kamoto, Shaun Lane, Danny Fualalo, Tautalatasi Tasi (all Bulldogs NYC)
LOSSES: Harlan Alaalatoa (French rugby), Lachlan Burr (Titans), Drury Low (released), Krisnan Inu (French rugby), Ed Murphy (Rabbitohs), Pat Templeman (Qld Cup)
