Bulldogs playmaker Braith Anasta says the premiers are finally reaching their form of 2004 following their gritty 31-12 victory over Manly in their NRL clash at Brookvale Oval.

The Bulldogs dominated the second half, played in driving rain, to dash Manly's hopes of a 12th consecutive win at their home ground fortress.

Anasta was his side's best player, reinforcing the widespread view that League Week's players' poll in which he was voted the NRL's most over-rated player as laughable.

The Bulldogs remain in 10th place on the table but their win over Manly will give them the confidence they need to make a push into the top eight, with the four teams above them just one point clear of the premiers.

The Sea Eagles are still in third spot but coach Des Hasler was disappointed in his side's second-half performance after it was ahead 12-10 at the break.

Hasler has a further headache, with former NSW forward Anthony Watmough forced from the field in the 61st minute with a knee injury.

Asked whether it was the Bulldogs' best of their six wins this year, Anasta replied: "Yeah it was. It was a more organised and structured play from us.

"Even last week we struggled (against Canberra) and still won but I thought today we played really well.

"Our defence was really good and we're starting to get back to our old form.

"I think it's all starting to happen for us. Our aggression and physical contact has been a bit down all year.

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