The 1980 NSWRFL Grand Final was a landmark moment in Australian rugby league, as the Canterbury-B...
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The 1980 NSWRFL Grand Final was a landmark moment in Australian rugby league, as the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs claimed their first premiership in 38 years. Played at the Sydney Cricket Ground on September 27, 1980, the match drew a crowd of 52,881 spectators. The Bulldogs took on the Eastern Suburbs Roosters, leading by a narrow 7–4 margin at halftime. In the second half, a defining moment unfolded when Canterbury’s Greg Brentnall launched a high kick toward the try line. Steve Gearin soared above Eastern Suburbs’ David Michael to catch the ball and score a crucial try, cementing the Bulldogs' lead. This try remains one of the most iconic in Grand Final history. Canterbury-Bankstown emerged victorious with a final score of 18–4, thanks to tries from Chris Anderson and Steve Gearin, who also kicked six goals. Eastern Suburbs managed their points through two goals by Kevin Wright.
