The Dragons' Charity Shield hopes were dashed as they suffered a 28-24 defeat at the hands of the Rabbitohs in Wollongong on Saturday night. A solid crowd turned out for the first Charity Shield match at WIN Stadium since 2014, but it was the Rabbitohs who emerged victorious. Early in the game, Hame Sele was forced off with a head injury assessment, and the Rabbitohs soon followed suit with the loss of Jonah Glover. Setu Tu and Kyle Flanagan both had early opportunities, but it was the Dragons who struck first through a clever shift and a well-executed try by Atkinson. The Rabbitohs responded with a try of their own, and the first quarter ended with the score tied at 6-6. The Dragons had a golden opportunity to extend their lead, but a frustrating error cost them. Just before half-time, Matt Dufty managed to score for the Rabbitohs, and they took a 16-12 lead into the break. The second half saw the Rabbitohs extend their lead, but the Dragons fought back with a try by Luciano Leilua. However, the Rabbitohs' Jordi Mazzone snatched a try against the run of play, and the Dragons' hopes were dashed. Despite a late injection of Hayden Buchanan, the Dragons couldn't close the gap, and the Rabbitohs held on for the win. But here's where it gets controversial... The Dragons' defense was under pressure throughout, and some key errors cost them dearly. The Rabbitohs' defense was also under pressure, but they managed to hold on and secure the win. So, what do you think? Did the Dragons' errors cost them the game, or did the Rabbitohs simply play a better game? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
