Belmore Sports Ground came alive once again last night as the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs secured a hard-fought 20-18 victory over the Newcastle Knights in front of over 13,000 passionate fans.

The game marked the sixth NRL premiership match at Belmore since the historic venue's part-time return to the professional calendar in 2015 - and the Bulldogs' first win at the ground since their triumphant comback game in June of that year.

Adding to the significance of the occasion was the appointment of Back to Belmore's founding President, Luke Brailey, as the organisation's new Patron. Elected by the executive committee at last week's Annual General Meeting to serve a five-year term, Mr Brailey led the grassroots movement to revive the iconic ground from its inception in 2005 until his resignation as President in 2014, during a time when Belmore's future was anything but secure.

"What a fantastic night for Belmore. What a barn burner," Mr Brailey said.

"To see the Bulldogs get the win in front of a strong local crowd, at a venue that means so much to this community, is incredibly special. Belmore isn't just back - it's thriving. Tonight is a great reminder of what persistence and community spirit can achieve. Belmore continues to provide it belongs in the NRL calendar - not just for its history, but for the energy it brings to the game and to the people of the Canterbury-Bankstown district."

The tighly contested match capped off a night full of atmosphere, with local businesses once again enjoying a healthy surge in trade. Families, long-time supporters and travelling fans gathered across Belmore before and after the game, contributing to the vibrant match-day experience that has become synonymous with the hallowed turf's revival.

The NRL's 2018 draw is expected to be released later in the year, and Back to Belmore remains hopeful that more fixtures will return to the iconic facility in seasons to come.