The Magpies went back to Lidcombe Oval for the second week running, looking to avenge a big loss to the Dragons the week prior. The challenge of taking on the ladder leading Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs wasn't lost on Wests when they ran out from the Tom Raudonikis OAM Grandstand, but they put in early and crossed in the 14th minute to new winger Sione Hopoate. From there it was a see-sawing affair, going try for try with the Bulldogs, including a great Masterton Magic Moment to Brandon Mansfield just before half-time. While the game continued to be a tight one, the Magpies benefitted from a long kicking game (167 extra kick metres over the Bulldogs) and a disciplined performance (completing at 81%) that kept us in it until the final moments. When the Bulldogs missed a field goal in the dying minutes, Wests worked their way back up field and slotted what looked to be the match winner through halfback Will Smith. However the final two minutes didn't go to plan, with a strong Bulldogs attack capitalising on a Magpies error, setting up for a field goal to lock the game up for a 15-All draw.
This weekend, Western Suburbs Magpies cross the bridge to take on our foundation club rivals the North Sydney Bears at North Sydney Oval. Be sure to make the trek for one of the highlights of the NSW rugby league calendar, and cheer on the boys in black-and-white.
We'll be back at Lidcombe Oval in a month on Sunday 30th July to take on South Sydney Rabbitohs on Members Day. Be sure to sign up as a member ahead of time to secure your free entry and to support the club!
