The Mole: Canterbury Missing the ‘Crucial Element’ in Their Quest to Break Extended Premiership Drought

Canterbury appears to possess all the key elements required for a top-four finish come 2025 – that is, except for perhaps the most crucial ingredient.

Over the past three years, Phil Gould has put together a solid roster, and the Bulldogs managed to overturn a lengthy finals drought in the previous season.

However, in my opinion, they still seem to be missing an elite halfback, which could potentially impede their progress in the upcoming months.

Toby Sexton is undoubtedly a reliable NRL halfback, adept at guiding the Dogs around the field with a commendable kicking game. He is intelligent, approaches his role with professionalism, gives his all week in and week out, and commands the respect of his fellow players.

However, in a ranking of the 17 halfbacks in the NRL, he would likely find himself nearer to the bottom than the top.

The club does have an up-and-coming halfback in Mitchell Woods, but he probably isn’t quite ready for the NRL for another couple of years.

Canterbury also lacked a bit of aggression in the forward pack last season, but they have addressed this concern by signing two dynamic forwards: Tom Amone from Super League and Sitili Tupouniua from the Roosters.

Besides that, the core group that led them to the finals last year remains intact, with the younger players now a year older and wiser, which could very well translate into a top-four finish if key players manage to stay fit.

The outside backs are exceptional, featuring the likes of Connor Tracey, Marcelo Montoya, Jacob Kiraz, Bronson Xerri, and Stephen Crichton, all recognised for their ability to score tries.

This serves as the team’s greatest strength, as coach Cameron Ciraldo encourages them to play with freedom – a strategy that resulted in a high scoring record last season, with even more expected in the future.

2025 Additions

Tom Amone (Leigh Leopards), Sitili Tupouniua (Sydney Roosters), Marcelo Montoya (Warriors), Enari Tuala (Knights)

2025 Departures

Jeral Skelton (Wests Tigers), Joash Papalii (Eels), Jordan Samrani (Eels), Kitione Kautoga (Eels), Chris Patolo (Manly – train and trial), Hayze Perham (Broncos), Josh Addo-Carr (Eels), Liam Knight (released), Zane Tetevano (released), Poasa Faamausili (retired)

Best Acquisition

Amone is an imposing presence who can drive the defensive line back – a quality the Dogs have sorely needed in recent times. If he finds his footing in the NRL, he could well be the Bulldogs’ game-changer.

This season is crucial for

Connor Tracey shone as the fullback in several matches last year; if he elevates his game further, he will become a formidable asset.

Major Query

Can the forward pack generate enough power to compete against the likes of the Panthers and Storm? Amone could potentially provide the answer.

Predicted Finish: 3rd

Projected Round One Line-up:

1. Connor Tracey 2. Marcelo Montoya 3. Bronson Xerri 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Blake Wilson 6. Matt Burton 7. Toby Sexton 8. Max King 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Sam Hughes 11. Jacob Preston 12. Viliame Kikau 13. Kurt Mann 14. Bailey Hayward 15. Sitili Tupouniua 16. Josh Curran 17. Tom Amone

Odds for Premiership: $17