The Graveyard fans response would have registered on the Richter Scale when Wyborn crossed with two minutes to go and Kade Hardy converted to give the Bulldogs a 20-16 lead.

Minutes earlier the Bulldogs faithful were baying for one of the linesman’s blood after he called a Lakes’ player had been impeded in a move which seemed to have resulted in a Bulldogs try with 10 minutes to go.

The disallowed try would have taken Kurri to an 18-14 lead with the kick to come, but instead the Bulldogs were marched 70 metres back up the ground and Lakes kicked for touch from a penalty.

The Seagulls were awarded a penalty in the next set of six and converted from in front to take a 16-14 lead.

But the Bulldogs refused to give in and with their home crowd cheering them on mounted several attacks until Wyborn was able to cross the line adjacent to the uprights.

Bulldogs coach Phil Williams said he was thrilled with the steel his side showed in continuing to fight for victory even when things went against them.

“I’ve told them to celebrate tonight. We have done something that not many others have been able to do this year, beat the reigning premiers and competition leaders,” he said.

Meanwhile, Geordie Connelly led the way for the Maitland Pickers against Macquarie Scorpions with a try and three goals. 

The Pickers put in a stronger showing after last week’s disappointing loss to Kurri Kurri, but were unable to bridge the gap in talent against the Scorpions going down 42-18.

Kurri Kurri 20 def Lakes United 16

Kurri Kurri Scorers: C Moran, J Griffiths, T Seu Seu, B Wyborn.  Goals: K Hardy 2.

Lakes United Scorers: K Kennedy, M Ikinofo.  Goals: B Murray 2.

Macquarie 42 def Maitland 18

Macquarie Scorers: N Cantor 2, R Pywell 2, M Simon, A Sumner , I Briggs.  Goals: T Fa’avae-Eli 7.

Maitland Scorers: G Connolly, T Carter, J Rosberg.  Goals: G Connolly 3.