It was heartbreak again for the Footscray Bulldogs on Saturday night, falling five points short against Southport at Whitten Oval.

Leading by 15 points heading into the final term, the barnstorming visitors finished with a flourish, kicking six goals in the last to run out 13.11 (89) to 12.12 (84) winners.

Louis Butler had the chance to win the match after the siren with a tough set shot from the boundary but unfortunately couldn’t convert the difficult opportunity. 

The fixture started with plenty of controversy after a cancelled flight delayed the start time of the match, with the clash quickly turning to a battle under Saturday night lights.

The Bulldogs were missing plenty of stars due to the AFL commitments in Ballarat, but showed plenty of spirit bursting out of the blocks to lead by two points at the first change.

Josh Chatfield had two majors at half-time to lead the side towards an upset victory, before one of the league leaders displayed their class to run away with the game.

It’s the second week in a row that the Bulldogs have fallen a goal short.

Butler was impressive on his return to the VFL side with 23 touches, while Buku Khamis continued his forward time to add multiple majors.

Daniel Orgill impressed for the home side with 20 touches, 14 tackles and a goal to show his willingness at the contest.

Jordon Sweet returned to the ruck with 37 hit-outs to demonstrate his capability if called upon at AFL level.

Charlie Parker continues to work his way into VFL level, recording 12 touches and kicking a goal.

The defeat sees the Bulldogs with a win-loss record of 1-4, and will next face the Bombers at VU Whitten Oval on Sunday, May 1 at 11.35am.

MATCH DETAILS

Footscray 3.4 7.8 9.10 12.12 (84)
Southport 3.2 6.4 7.7 13.11 (89)

Goals: Chatfield 2, Doultree 2, Khamis 2, Parker, Hamad, Hodge, Gilbee, Goater, Orgill