Marcus Bontempelli has had plenty of good games in his 45 game career to date, but his clutch goal in the dying minutes of Saturday night’s thriller against Adelaide ensured that his most recent might be up there with his best.

While the statisticians were kept busy all night with his 30 disposals (15 contested), four clearances, nine score involvements and two goals, it was his final kick of the day that was the most important.

With the Dogs leading by just three points, 1:30 left on the clock and a charging Adelaide snapping at their heals, Bailey Dale found a leading Bontempelli who calmly went back and kicked the sealer.

It was a big moment on a big stage and Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge would have loved the sight of the third-year player demanding the football in crucial stage of the game.

He would have loved the result even more.

Speaking to media post-match, Beveridge praised the maturity of the 20-year-old, saying that his ability to step up in a key moment for the side was sign of his growing leadership capabilities.

"He was outstanding, Marcus," the coach said.

"He had a lot more of the ball than he usually gets [but] it was great to see him ice that goal late in the game, to put that game to bed in a pivotal moment for us.

“It allowed my heart rate to go down 30 beats.

“For a young player and a young man he really leads the way."