Mason inspires 'Dogs to big win

Big Willie Mason has given his hopes of a State of Origin call-up a boost as he came off the bench to inspire the Bulldogs to a 48-14 win over Newcastle in their National Rugby League game at Telstra Stadium yesterday.

Mason was injected into the game after 26 minutes with the 'Dogs leading 12-2 following a try from another NSW hopeful - Braith Anasta. The incumbent Test forward charged over six minutes later off a Brent Sherwin pass to give the 'Dogs an 18-2 lead before Craig Hall hit back for the Knights just before halftime to make the score 18-8.

The second half was an onslaught as the 'Dogs withstood an early Newcastle barrage to score five tries, including a 65-metre solo effort from Ben Harris, who finished the match with three tries.

The only down side for the 'Dogs was hooker Corey Hughes going on report for a lifting tackle on Newcastle hooker Danny Buderus.