The Bulldogs have escaped with a 15-14 win over the Sharks in a thrilling golden point finish thanks to a field goal from sharpshooter Matt BurtonIt was all Bulldogs early on as they ran in two tries in the opening 13 minutes of the game before the Sharks fought their way to the lead.
A Cameron McInnes error in the first 30 seconds of the game handed the Bulldogs their first opportunity. Following a repeat set down on the Sharks’ line, Viliame Kikau put in a grubber and some confusion over who was going to clean it up allowed the star second-rower to pounce on the live ball and score.
The Dogs backed it up to extend their lead when Reed Mahoney scored out of dummy-half.But the Sharks soon responded through Briton Nikora, who scored under the posts to send his side into the halftime break down 12-6.
They came out in the second 40 firing with Sione Katoa and Braydon Trindall scoring to take the lead.A Burton penalty goal in the 78th minute — and some failed field goal attempts — sent the game into golden point.
Nicho Hynes, who had a horror night on the boot, looked certain to slot a field goal from right in front but it missed.Then Burton got his chance and fans at Accor Stadium held their breath as the ball hit the upright before going through to seal the win.
