The Footscray Bulldogs have succumbed to a disappointing 27-point loss against Sydney at Mission Whitten Oval on Saturday morning.

Despite the evident effort from the Dogs, the inability to capitalise on crucial opportunities early in the match proved to be their downfall in the 8.8 (56) to 12.11 (83) affair.

A dominant Swans outfit came out to play early in the match, kicking five unanswered goals and limiting Footscray from being able to efficiently enter inside forward 50.

Trent Bianco slotted his first of the day late in the opening term to trail by 33 points at the first change.

The Dogs struggled to convert again in the second quarter, however the story for the Swans was no different with both teams having difficulty finding the goals.

Bianco kicked his second of the match and the only goal for this term, seeing Footscray enter the main break with a 26-point deficit.

A different narrative ensued after half-time as the Dogs came out with more intensity and the ability to capitalise better on opportunities in front of goal.

Goals from Craig-Peters, Owen and McNeil saw Footscray threaten to turn the tide, but the Swans’ three unanswered goals earlier in the term saw the visitors remain on top.

The Dogs were unable to hold onto this short momentum shift as Sydney made a late run in the fourth, dominating in offensive transition.

Oskar Baker and Riley Garcia were instrumental for Footscray, with Baker racking up a game-high 32 disposals and Garcia finishing with 31, both being influential around the ground.

VFL-listed forward Cameron Owen came out strong on debut for the red, white and blue, booting two goals for the match.

Footscray have a bye next week but will look to regroup before facing North Melbourne at Arden Street Oval on Saturday 29 June at 2:05pm.

FOOTSCRAY: 1.0    2.4    6.6    8.8 (56)
SYDNEY SWANS: 6.3    6.6    9.7    12.11 (83)

Goals: Owen 2, Bianco 2, Rypstra, McNeil, Craig-Peters, Clarke