Under-strength Bulldogs defeated

Birmingham Bulldogs were forced to throw five new players in at the deep end as they lost 36-14 at Bristol.

Deprived of nine first team regulars, the Bulldogs were never likely to complete the double over the Sonics, but they remained competitive.

A try from Danny Bancroft just before half-time meant they trailed only 12-4 at the interval.

Centre Clinton Tull and left-wing Jermaine Bernard added second-half scores but Bristol extended their lead.

The Bulldogs expect to be back at full strength for next Saturday's trip to Derby City.