SG Ball: Bulldogs star centre Paul Alamoti double secures win over Sydney Roosters
Jocelyn Airth
Remember the name Paul Alamoti. The explosive young centre is quickly climbing the ranks at Belmore and his performance in Round 1 of the SG Ball Cup put rivals on notice.
Paul Alamoti dazzled in the opening round for Canterbury. Picture: David Swift.
It’s crazy to think young Paul Alamoti hadn’t run out for the Bulldogs for 11 months.
COVID-19 forced NSWRL to cancel junior representative competition in March last year and despite the lack of footy, Canterbury’s explosive centre hasn’t missed a beat.
The local junior, who dominated the Harold Matthews Cup in 2019 and 2020, scored a double to inspire the Bulldogs’ 24-16 win against the Sydney Roosters as Round 1 of the SG Ball Cup kicked off on Saturday.
Paul Alamoti roars after one of his two tries. Picture: David Swift.
Alamoti immediately excited spectators at Belmore when he popped a nice ball to winger Brendon Taupuai to score early.
The big centre then threw an offload in a frantic seven-pass play that ended with fullback Kai Brady spinning over.
Second-rower Lleyton Borg was next to cross and secure Canterbury a comfortable 14-0 lead at halftime.
But there was plenty to like about the Roosters, who fielded an explosive centre of their own who set off a courageous comeback.
Roosters captain Thomas Deakin looks to offload. Picture: David Swift.
Local product Jordan Swann charged down a line and beat four defenders to get his side on the board.
The strong centre, part of Waverley College’s 2020 CAS Rugby-winning side, made another brilliant run to set up five-eighth Sandon Smith over.
Fullback Ethan King sliced through to put the Chooks within reach, but it was left too late.
Alamoti bolted over for his two tries and then kicked a penalty goal to seal the deal for the Dogs.
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