Canterbury Bulldogs have scored a tremendous 6-0 shutoff of Easts Roosters to claim the 2018 State Cup women’s open final.
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Played in front of a enthusiastic crowd of spectators, the match was played at the Regional Sports Stadium on Sunday, December 9.
Led from the front by captain Louise Winchester, the Bulldogs stormed to an early 5-0 lead to take the game right away from the Roosters outfit.
But the start surprised many within the Bulldogs camp.
After the victory, Winchester was mystified as to why the side started so well.
“The start was fantastic. We don’t normally start that well,” she said.
“So it was awesome to post those early tries.
“Prior to the game we spoke a lot about defence and I think that showed today.”
Winchester said the team had been waiting some time for this win.
“We have been through some tough times together but it has all paid off today,” she said.
The winning captain described the team as a “beautiful bunch of girls”.
I am really proud to be part of this winning team.
- Louise Winchester
“I am really proud to be part of this winning team.”
The Bulldogs were just too superior across the park for a gallant, and outplayed Easts side.
The winners stormed to a 5-0 lead thanks to a double to the unofficial player of the match Courtney Young.
Young's double proved crucial midway through the clash.
Try scorers for the Bulldogs were Claire Tandek, Stephanie Cummins and captain Louise Winchester. Young crossed for a double while Logan Flanagan put the icing on the cake with a late try to stretch the lead to 6-0.
Easts Roosters and Canterbury Bulldogs both had pedigree on their respective sides leading into the clash.
Easts were runners-up last year while Canterbury were defeated by Manly in the 2016 decider.
Canterbury were the winners in 2014 but held the crown six consecutive years from 2006. Easts had also won the title on previous occasions. Easts had also been runners-up a total of six times since 2001.
Doyalson Dragons claimed the open men’s final. While the Port Makos, while making appearances in the quarters and semi finals could not manage to achieve a state title.