The nib Newcastle Knights have gone down 36-12 to the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at Accor Stadium this afternoon.
The Bulldogs took control of the contest early, racing to an early lead and managing to maintain it throughout the contest.
Anzac Round shapes as the next challenge for Adam O'Brien's men, with the side set to travel to Brisbane to take on the Dolphins at Suncorp Stadium in seven days time.
HOW IT PLAYED OUT:
1st min - The match kicked off in front of a vocal crowd at Sydney Olympic Park, with plenty of red and blue visible against the picturesque backdrop of a sunny Sunday afternoon clash.
4th min - The Bulldogs started the stronger of the two sides, cementing their early advantage with a bulldozing try to front rower Sam Hughes, who crashed over close to the line to open the scoring.
22nd min - After a try to Jaeman Salman was denied thanks to some desperate Knights defence, Jacob Kiraz made no such mistake finishing a slick backline move. Burton converted from the sideline, giving the Bulldogs a 12 point advantage.
31st min - After some sustained pressure down the Bulldogs' end, Dylan Lucas launched onto a neat ball from Tyson Gamble to storm over for the Knights' first try, bringing the scoreline back to 12-6.
Lucas hits back
34th min - After failing to complete their first set post points, the Knights left the door open for the Dogs to strike back. Bronson Xerri took full advantage, crossing out wide to restore his side's lead.
40th min - After a tough opening 40, the Knights hit the sheds 18-6 behind.
48th min - Brayden Hayward crossed after the break to extend his side's advantage.
58th min - Josh Addo-Carr finds the corner despite a valiant effort from Lucas, giving the Bulldogs a 30-6 lead.
71st min - Stephen Crichton rubs salt into the wounds on a dominant day for the Dogs, scoring to extend the margin to 30 points.
79th min - Bradman Best grabs a consolation four pointer late in the game, with Jackson Hastings converting for a 36-12 scoreline.
Best scores late
