Bulldogs scored twice inside the opening five minutes in the clash at Ashwood Park to seize the momentum early and put a depleted Eagles side on the back foot.

The hosts secured a four-try bonus point before half-time.

Bulldogs strayed away from their game plan on several occasions, allowing the Eagles to snare two converted tries, but their lead never looked in danger.

The win for Bulldogs sets up an exciting top-of-the-table meeting with the unbeaten Orange Emus this Saturday.

“I’m very happy with the game. During the week were a little worried about Cowra after their results against Forbes and Orange City, but they ended up having six players out,” Bulldogs coach Dean Oxley said.

“It’s a brutal comp this year but we’re lucky to have amazing depth at our club. There were a lot of players from seconds and colts who made a great account of themselves.”

The win for Bulldogs gives them confidence ahead the meeting with Emus.

However, Oxley believes his side won’t get away with the lapses they had against the Eagles.

“Those two early tries meant we relaxed and got away from our structure and that allowed Cowra to come back. They had a couple of chances close to our line but our goal line defence has been brilliant all year,” he said.

“We have to work on our consistency and structure. If we’re the Emus then we probably go on to put the game away for good at the start of that second half. That’s the difference between us at the moment.”

It’s the second big win for the Bulldogs against the Eagles this year following a 41-10 scoreline in the opening round.

Oxley said several Bulldogs players made their presence felt through the match.

“Lachlan Pearce got our players’ player. He came up and played his first grade debut and scored two tries,” he said.

“Adam Miles, our vice captain on the day, got the three points. His commitment and application was strong and his defence was great.

“He’s become a senior member of this team at a young age. He was fighting for his place in the past but has cemented his position in the side.

“Mark Donnelly was great in his first game as captain, in the absence of Peter Fitzsimmons. Josh Arrow was another player who was strong on debut.”

This week the Eagles are on the road again to Dubbo to take on Roos who are coming of a victory against Forbes Platypi.