The U20 Thunderbolts have opened the 2017 season with a 24-18 victory against the Bulldogs at Belmore Sports Ground.
Jacob Tonge gave the visitors the best possible start to the contest, scoring to give Eric Smith’s side an early lead during the opening stages. It did not take long for the home side to open their account however, quickly tying the scores at 4-4 shortly after.
A tight first half contest played out in wet and slippery conditions as the Thunderbolts took their chances in attack against the young Bulldogs’ defence.
Tries to Matt Egan and Corey Parker gave the Storm side a 14-8 lead heading into the sheds at half-time.
Two unanswered tries to begin the second half saw Canterbury-Bankstown turn their half-time deficit into a lead before a penalty goal saw the Thunderbolts level proceedings at 18-18 with under 15 minutes left on the clock.
A thrilling victory was sealed for the Storm U20’s when Cory Parker found himself in space on the right wing to find his second of the night to hand his side the two points.
U20 Thunderbolts 24
Defeated.
U20 Bulldogs 18
