7th Tackle: How Bulldogs dropped the ball on Connor Watson

Canterbury's abysmal record of late isn't the only reason why Des Hasler is under the blow torch.

Recruitment is a huge issue for the Bulldogs board, with concerns there's not enough talent from within to replace an aging roster.

Canterbury's lower grade sides have not been the club's strong point since Hasler's arrival in 2012 - and directors feel his staff have missed opportunities to poach talented youngsters.

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There's no better example than how the Bulldogs dropped the ball on Connor Watson, who is coming off a superb rookie season at the Roosters.

As a schoolboy, Watson played his club footy in the South Sydney junior competition under former Bulldogs prop Peter Tunks.

He attracted interest from virtually every club - except Canterbury. "So I rang them to ask why they hadn't shown any interest," Tunks said. "I gave them a chance to come and see him, but the response was pretty underwhelming."