Bulldogs wary of Raiders

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18.06.2002

Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes will remind his side of their 32-0 thrashing at the hands of the Canberra Raiders at the Sydney Showground last year to prompt players out of any complacency for this year's rematch on Saturday (5.30pm kick-off).

"Canberra are a much more capable side than their position on the table indicates so I'll be making it quite clear to the team that they'll need to be switched on, especially after coming off a bye," Folkes said. "The Raiders are pretty much back to full strength so it's going to be another good test of our depth."

Willie Mason and Paul Rauhihi will start in the front row in the absence of the regular pairing of Steve Price (Origin) and Mark O'Meley (broken jaw) and Glen Hughes will captain the side at lock.

Following the match supporters will be invited to head on to the field to catch up with the players, kick a footy, re-enact their favourite try and enjoy the family atmosphere.

Inviting supporters to join the players for a post-match barbecue on the ground is just one of a number of measures the Bulldogs are taking to address disappointing crowd attendances so far this year.

One lucky supporter will also have the chance to kick for $5000 at half time, a special price of $50 for families in reserved seating has also been introduced and there'll be jumping castles, bands and face painting to continue the family theme.

These steps come on top of captain Steve Price making a direct appeal to supporters to come to Bulldogs games and CEO Bob Hagan has backed up Price's plea.

"I know the team is especially appreciative of those supporters who have made the effort to get along to as many games as they can but they are disappointed that there hasn't been a better response given that they're playing some pretty good football at the moment," Mr Hagan said.

"Doing extra little things like letting the kids onto the ground to pretend they're a Brent Sherwin or Braith Anasta is one of a number of things we're trying to make sure people get to the game instead of watching it on television."

Please find the team listed below:

BULLDOGS V CANBERRA RAIDERS Sydney Showground Saturday 22 June, 5.30pm kick off

1. Luke Patten 2. Hazem El Masri 3. Nigel Vagana 4. Willie Talau 5. Matthew Utai 6. Braith Anasta 7. Brent Sherwin 8. Paul Rauhihi 9. Corey Hughes 10. Willie Mason 11. Jamie Feeney 12. Steve Reardon 13. Glen Hughes (c)

14. Adam Perry 15. Tony Grimaldi 16. Nathan Sologinkin 17. Glenn Hall

For any further information please contact Media Manager Polly McCardell on 02 9789 2922 or 0407 908 746.

Media Manager Bulldogs Rugby League West Sydney Razorbacks Basketball phone: (02) 9789 2922 mobile: 0407 908 746 fax: (02) 9718 8012

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