The Bulldogs’ 2021 campaign came to an end in France on Saturday afternoon as Craig Lingard’s men fell to a 51-12 defeat at the hands of Full Time Toulouse Olympique.

After leaving training at 8.30pm on Firday evening, with some players travelling back across the penines, the squad met again at The Fox’s Biscuits Stadium for 6.15 on Saturday morning. A coach trip to Humberside airport and charter flight to Toulouse saw the group arrive at the Stade Ernest Wallon for midday UK time, with a 3.15 kick-off to come.

The visitors made a solid start to the game, resting Olympique close to their line but it was the hosts who broke away to open the scoring with 2 quickfire tries. Dane Manning then forced his way over after enterprising play from the Bulldogs, to marrow the deficit. Toulouse added a 3rd score before Greg Johnson again brought the scores closer with a finish in the corner after more excellent play from The ‘Dogs. Half time saw The Bulldogs trailing by just 4 points at 16-12 after a fantastic effort.

The second 40 saw the overwhelming favourites take control of the game, and run out 51-12 victors to cement their spot in the Betfred Championship Grand Final

Craig Lingard and his men can hold their heads high and be very proud of an outstanding season. Away wins at Newcastle, Widnes, and York City Knights were amongst the highlights as the side played some of the best Rugby League in the competition.
They can now take a well earned rest before preparation for 2022 starts again in just a few weeks time.

Video Courtesy of Joe Miller.