By Dean Ritchie

13 February 2012 - Daily Telegraph

THE rain thundered down yesterday, but no amount of water could wash away the memories as rugby league returned to one of its most wonderful venues -- Belmore Sports Ground.

And there may be more games there, according to Bulldogs CEO Todd Greenberg.

"It won't happen in the short term but we have a strategic plan," Greenberg said before the trial match between Canterbury and the Roosters.

"But if we could get some additional investment from the government to put a little bit more into the ground then we could play one or two games a year here."

A host of Canterbury legends were there to relive some of their grandest moments.

"It's great seeing fans leaving the Leagues Club and walking to the ground -- just like the old days," ex-Bulldogs forward David Gillespie said.

One of the greatest Bulldogs of all, Steve Mortimer, spoke with pride and passion about Belmore.

"When I came here today I thought of (late club secretary) Peter Moore," Mortimer said. "Every opposing team hated coming to play at Belmore . I love seeing all the fans here in blue and white."

Mortimer's brother Peter played centre for Canterbury between 1977 and 1987. "The fact it is sold out today shows people want to come here," Peter said.