Nailing the fundamentals, and getting on top around the ball, saw the Western Bulldogs turn around a low-scoring first term to record their third-highest winning margin of the year.

Although heading into the first break only seven points down, Port Adelaide dominated possession through most of the term, with their midfield getting first use at the stoppages.

The Power won eight of the first 10 clearances of the match, were more effective by foot, and out-pressured the Dogs with 11-4 tackles to 16 minute mark of the opening term.

However a missed set shot by forward Justin Westhoff to put the Power four goals clear at the half way stage of the quarter became a turning point in the contest. 

After the ball went out on the full, the Bulldogs had 21-disposals without the Power touching the ball, yielding two goals, and bringing the Dogs right back into the hunt.

A return to the Dogs' signature free-flowing game style ensued, leading to a seven-goal second term and subsequent 64-point win.

“They definitely did come out in the first quarter and had the better of us for sure,” said Bulldogs midfielder Jack Macrae.

“Once we got back to the basics and started surging the ball forward and winning around the contest… that just got us all going and then our game really kicked in from there.”

Leading at the final break by 42 points, the Bulldogs increased their lead in the final term for the second week in a row.

Macrae said that despite holding a comfortable lead, his side continue to push for consistent four-quarter efforts.

“It’s always a good position to be up by 40 or so points at three quarter time but it’s good that both games we’ve put the foot down and haven’t rested on our laurels so hopefully it’s like that every week.”

Macrae notched up 30 disposals, nine contested possessions, four clearances and four inside 50s.

He was one of seven Dogs who picked up more than 25 touches on the night and said that the depth of his side’s midfield continued to be a positive.

“At the moment we’ve got a great, really deep midfield and there’s about six to eight blokes working together and going through and it just shows how much more energy we have around the footy and can really run through the game.”