By Cindy Ngo

23 June 2015 - Canterbury-Bankstown Express

A CROWD of 14,000 is expected at Belmore Sports Ground when the Bulldogs play their first NRL game at the ground since 1998.

The Bulldogs play Melbourne Storm on Monday in the first of two games at the club's spiritual home this season.

Canterbury-Bankstown will go into the game with confidence after defeating Penrith 24-12 at ANZ Stadium on Saturday night.

The victory means the Bulldogs are in the top eight and only two points behind the Storm/

In the club's final NRL game at their traditional home in 1998, the Bulldogs defeated the Storm 8-4 in front of more than 11,000 people.

A crowd of more than 14,000 is expected for the club's return to Belmore.

Bulldogs coach Des Hasler said playing at Belmore would be a "great occasion".

"There's a couple of games to be played at Belmore and it's looking a treat," Hasler said after the win against the Panthers.

"It'll be a great occasion for the club and one worth celebrating."

The Bulldogs also play Cronulla Sharks at Belmore on Sunday, July 26 to celebrate the club's 80th anniversary.

The club has encouraged supporters attending Monday night's game to pre-purchase tickets to avoid queues. Kick-off at 7pm on Monday night.