The stage was set for an unforgettable Good Friday clash at Accor Stadium, where the Canterbury Bulldogs faced off against the South Sydney Rabbitohs in front of a record crowd. With over 65,000 fans in attendance, the atmosphere was electric, as the Bulldogs aimed to maintain their unbeaten streak and the Rabbitohs sought to prove their mettle against a formidable opponent.
As the game kicked off on April 18, 2025, anticipation was palpable. Both teams had strong starts to the season, but it was Canterbury that came out firing on all cylinders. With a perfect record at stake, the Bulldogs played with a sense of urgency that had fans on the edge of their seats.
From the outset, Canterbury showcased their dominance, with their defense proving impenetrable. The Bulldogs not only aimed to secure a victory but also to make history by keeping their opponents scoreless for the second consecutive week—a feat they had never achieved in their 90-year history.
Max King, a standout player for the Bulldogs, reflected on the atmosphere, saying, "I had a tear in my eye" as fans rallied behind the team. The Bulldogs had not only broken their own records but had also smashed the previous NRL regular season attendance record of 59,708, set back in 2013. With tickets priced at just $10, it was a perfect storm for a massive turnout.
The first half saw the Bulldogs take control early, with a series of aggressive plays that left the Rabbitohs scrambling. Canterbury’s impressive performance was highlighted by a stunning try from Bronson Xerri, who crashed over the line to extend the Bulldogs' lead to 32-0 with just nine minutes remaining in the match.
South Sydney struggled to find their rhythm throughout the game. Coach Wayne Bennett made the decision to pull Cody Walker midway through the second half, citing concerns over his fitness and the game's direction. "They were much better than we were," Bennett admitted, acknowledging the Bulldogs' superior performance. The Rabbitohs' lineup adjustments, including moving Latrell Mitchell to the centers and bringing in Lewis Dodd, were not enough to turn the tide.
The Bulldogs' defense was relentless, successfully shutting out the Rabbitohs entirely. This marked a historic achievement for the club, as they became the first team to keep an opponent scoreless for two consecutive weeks in their storied history. "I can’t speak highly enough of this team," said halfback Toby Sexton. "I just try to base my game on effort and the rest of the side does the same."
As the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read Bulldogs 32, Rabbitohs 0, a result that solidified Canterbury’s place at the top of the NRL ladder with a perfect 6-0 record for the first time in 87 years. The win was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff, as they celebrated a historic moment for the club.
Fans were ecstatic, reveling in the success of their team. Kamal Kotb, a long-time Bulldogs supporter, expressed his pride in witnessing such a momentous occasion. "I’m proud, excited for the future and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve this year," he said, reflecting on the long journey the team had taken to reach this point.
Despite the loss, Rabbitohs supporters remained hopeful, with Mick Burke noting the significance of the rivalry and the excitement surrounding both teams. "The crowd is massive. I suppose it’s a holiday day... and everyone’s having a good time," he said, emphasizing the festive atmosphere surrounding the match.
In addition to the on-field action, the day was not without its drama. An altercation occurred between Rabbitohs star Jai Arrow and fans, adding a layer of intensity to the already charged atmosphere. Such moments are not uncommon in rugby league, where passion runs high.
As the Bulldogs celebrated their victory, they also looked ahead to the future, knowing that maintaining their form would be crucial in the coming weeks. With a solid foundation and a growing fanbase, the Bulldogs are poised to make a significant impact in the 2025 NRL season.
In conclusion, the Good Friday clash not only showcased the thrilling nature of rugby league but also highlighted the rich history and rivalry between the Bulldogs and Rabbitohs. With records shattered and a strong performance from Canterbury, fans are left eagerly anticipating what the rest of the season holds.
