diff --git a/polkadot/node/network/bridge/src/lib.rs b/polkadot/node/network/bridge/src/lib.rs
index fe89893a65..fee9b69c1b 100644
--- a/polkadot/node/network/bridge/src/lib.rs
+++ b/polkadot/node/network/bridge/src/lib.rs
@@ -1998,9 +1998,6 @@ mod tests {
 			let peer_a = PeerId::random();
 			let peer_b = PeerId::random();
 
-			network_handle.connect_peer(peer_a.clone(), PeerSet::Validation, ObservedRole::Full).await;
-			network_handle.connect_peer(peer_b.clone(), PeerSet::Collation, ObservedRole::Full).await;
-
 			assert_matches!(
 				virtual_overseer.recv().await,
 				AllMessages::StatementDistribution(
@@ -2008,6 +2005,9 @@ mod tests {
 				)
 			);
 
+			network_handle.connect_peer(peer_a.clone(), PeerSet::Validation, ObservedRole::Full).await;
+			network_handle.connect_peer(peer_b.clone(), PeerSet::Collation, ObservedRole::Full).await;
+
 			// bridge will inform about all connected peers.
 			{
 				assert_sends_validation_event_to_all(