Norths Tigers and West End Bulldogs played out a thrilling 20-all draw in the Ipswich Rugby League Mayor Paul Pisasale A-Grade Cup on Sunday.
If they had not done so yet, the Bulldogs proved on Sunday that they are the real deal in 2015 and they should be considered one of the competition heavyweights.
West End got on the front foot early with repeat sets in Norths' territory, the Tigers turned them away in both sets but in the seventh minute the Bulldogs cracked Norths defence when Fili Notoa sliced through to score out wide.
The Tigers weren't behind for long, just three minutes later Matthew Bettiens finished-off a slick Norths back line play to level the scores at 4-all.
West End regained the ascendancy as they looked threatening in attack, only for some desperate Tigers defence to keep the scores level.
In the 31st minute West End were finally rewarded for their persistence in attack when Deon Smith finished-off a stunning long-range attacking raid to get the Bulldogs back in front 8-4.
Just two minutes after halftime West End scored again, this time it was Errol Palmer who scored out wide as the Bulldogs established a 10-point lead.
The Tigers looked to be having a tough time trying to wrestle back momentum, but in the 59th minute another back line play was finished-off with class by Matthew Bettiens to get the Tigers back within four points.
Just as it seemed Norths had the momentum, West End centre Samson Hookey intercepted a Tigers pass and scored a long-range intercept-try.
As Norths worked their way back into West End's territory the Bulldogs showed great commitment in defence to prevent the Tigers from scoring.
After some sustained pressure on West End's try-line Norths finally scored again when Brent Newton ran a strong line and scored from close range to get his side back within four points.
With time on the match clock quickly running out it seemed the stage had been set for a grandstand finish.
With only seconds remaining Norths sent the ball wide and winger Anava Fesolai dived over in the corner to score a stunning try and level the scores at 20-all.
The attempted sideline conversion was unsuccessful, bringing to an end a thrilling 20-all draw between Norths Tigers and West End Bulldogs.
