By PETER JESSUP and NZPA
The Canterbury Bulldogs unleashed a powerful display to regain the NRL competition lead yesterday as they pummelled Brisbane 46-18 at Suncorp Stadium.
It was a breathtaking six-try second half performance after the scores were tied at 12-all at halftime, serving notice to all NRL rivals they are
on their way to a premiership final.
The Sydney Roosters looked to be on their way too, annihilating last year's champions, Penrith, 44-12 on Friday night.
Their win drew them level with the Bulldogs, but the Dogs overtook them yesterday. They lead 38 points to 36, with Brisbane third on 34 and Penrith fourth on 28.
St George Illawarra, North Queensland and Melbourne are next, all advancing their top four claims with wins at the weekend.
Melbourne Storm have struggled in recent weeks, but they consolidated their position in the top eight with a 36-18 win over the Raiders at Canberra Stadium yesterday.
They are now in a prime position to challenge for the top four, but Canberra's chances for the finals may have ended for the season. They need to win all three remaining matches to make the top eight.
The big upset of the round came as Manly rebounded from 72-12 loss at Penrith last week to beat the Newcastle Knights 48-10 at Brookvale Oval.
The Sea Eagles piled on eight tries to two, earning some redemption from their fans after criticism over their performance against the Panthers hurt during the week.
The win also eased Manly's wooden spoon fears, taking their two points ahead of the Warriors, who are in turn one point ahead of the Rabbitohs.
The Roosters reinforced their premiership favouritism with a 44-12 demolition of defending champions Penrith and the Eels engineered a form reversal to all-but end the Sharks' hopes of reaching this season's NRL playoffs.
Sydney were stunning in running in seven tries. There was an element of luck in some but that came from pressure, a good kick-chase and support play.
Cronulla's finals hopes rely on getting three wins and results elsewhere after they slumped 44-22 to a Nathan Hindmarsh-inspired Eels.
A rejuvenated Eels came off the bye and the win lifted them clear of wooden spoon territory.
North Queensland confirmed their top-eight status with a come-from-behind 36-22 win over South Sydney.
