The Footscray Bulldogs impressed in their final practice match of 2018, securing a 10-point victory over the Bombers at VU Whitten Oval.

The Dogs got off to a fast start with four first half goals from Tory Dickson, leaving Essendon playing catch-up all day.

Midfielder Mitch Wallis was instrumental in the Dogs win, kicking four goals and gathering 29 disposals. While, Shane Biggs and Lewis Young dominated in defence, racking up 30 and 24 touches, respectively.

There were promising signs shown from first year player Cal Porter, kicking his first major score late in the third term, while Fergus Greene added to the goals tally with two in the same quarter.

Tom Boyd and Josh Patullo shared ruck duties, equalling 29 hit-outs between them. Boyd looked comfortable around the midfield, taking an important mark in the second term that resulted in a Wallis goal.

Footscray take on Sandringham in their Round 1 match at 2pm Saturday, April 7 at Trevor Barker Beach Oval.

Goals: T. Dickson (4) M. Wallis (4) F. Greene (2) A. Bruhn (2) C. Porter (1) J. Wallis (1)

Best: M. Wallis, T. Dickson, S. Biggs, L. Young, P. Lipinksi