By Mick Roberts

1 July 2015 - The Torch

BRETT Morris and Trent Hodkinson returned to the side when the Bulldogs triumphantly returned to Belmore Sports Ground on Monday night, defeating the Melbourne Storm 20-4.

It took just three minutes for the Bulldogs to cross, with Brett Morris collecting a clever grubber from Curtis Rona. Hodkinson slotted the extras for an early 6-0 lead.

A short side play deep into the set in the eighth minute, saw Shaun Lane, starting in the place of the suspended Josh Jackson, cross for his first NRL try. Hodkinson converted for a 12-0 scoreline.

In the 12th minute, Sam Perrett slid over in the corner and after the video referee gave it the green light, it was 16-0. Hodkinson was unsuccessful with the kick.

The keen eye of dummy half, Sam Kasiano spotted an unmarked Josh Morris on the wing and he slid over untouched to start the second half where the first ended. Hodkinson failed to convert for 20-0 in the 46th minute.

A chant for Josh Reynolds erupted with 20 minutes left on the clock and a clap of appreciation from the super-sub brought raucous cheers. Coach Des Hasler responded to the fans cries, injecting Reynolds into the match only minutes later, with Hodkinson earning a rest.

Marifa Koroibete slid over in the corner for Melbourne for a late consolation try in the final minute of the game. Cameron Smith failed with his conversion for a 20-4 full-time score.

The Bulldogs will host a second game at Belmore Sports Ground as part of their 80th anniversary celebrations, against Cronulla on Sunday, July 26.

Bulldogs have the bye next round before returning to action in round 18 on Saturday, July 11 at ANZ Stadium against the Broncos.