Despite a positive start, the Bulldogs were found wanting in the back end of the first during their clash with Junee at Les Boyd Oval on Sunday.

Conceding five straight tries proved costly as the Diesels ran out 36-24 winners.

Bulldogs co-coach Chris Maher thought the Bulldogs lost momentum early in the first half, especially when Moe Clune went off.

"We we on top in the first 20 to score two tries to make it 12-nil but they come back," Maher said. "I think the interchange got us and we subbed a few big fellas at the wrong times and their two fresh ones came on and got a bit of a roll on there."

Cootamundra fired out of the blocks with the opening two tries to James Smith and Chris Maher before the Diesels hit back with five straight to lead 26-12 just after half-time.

The Bulldogs then took advantage of a patched-up Junee back line to cut the margin to two points with 20 minutes to play but after roaring back into the contest with two quickfire tries, Cootamundra then lost Matt Forsyth to the sin bin for a professional foul.

Junee made their numbers count as late tries to Dakota Ruta and Jarom Vakarewakobau ensured the win.

The middle is something Maher is looking to address ahead of the clash with Kangaroos on Sunday.

Especially with the Wagga club coming off a win against Young to start their season.

"The effort was there definitely from the boys, I can't fault anyone there, but there a few little things to take out and sort before round two," he said.

"In the middle we got a bit lazy there and whether it is trying to hold out with those subs but we need to slow that ruck down.

"The big boys need to work a bit harder but that will come with a bit more match fitness."

Another concern is an elbow injury to halfback James Smith.

He couldn't finish the game, forcing Maher into the halves, and when Forsyth was given his marching orders the Bulldogs lost direction.

Maher is hopeful he will be right to play.

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