It was the Scorpions first win of the season, and a strong one at that with the home side leading 16-10 at halftime.

Both sides were missing players due to injury. The Scorpions had nine first grade players missing.

A close and hard fought encounter was expected of the game with Kurri previously defeating Maitland and the Scorpions.

The Bulldogs were also narrowly defeated by competition favourites Western Suburbs the week before.

Scorpions head coach Adam Bettridge said he was pleased with the win, and in particular the defence not allowing Kurri to score in the second half.

Bettridge said it has been a difficult start to the season with key signings Daniel Abraham, Scott Briggs and Danny Vaughan still sidelined with broken arms and a number of other classy players also missing.

But, he was very pleased that hooker Chris Hyde made his return against Kurri and was very sharp considering the long layoff, he also said that Blake Gallen was again a standout for the Scorpions. 

Bettridge said it was not just pleasing that first grade were able to win but also open grade.

Reserve grade were also impressive on the weekend, recording a good solid win despite the number of players missing.

“We set out to improve our depth and that is certainly the case when you consider the position the lower grades are on the competition table after four rounds with every side now in the top four,” Bettridge said.

“We must now consolidate and improve on that performance against Kurri last weekend with another solid performance against Central this weekend at home on Saturday at Peacock Field to ensure we keep pace with the leaders.”

The under 19s kick off at 10.50am with the first grade starting at 3pm.