The Western Bulldogs fought hard but went down to Williamstown by seven points at DSV Stadium on Sunday.

It was a tight contest throughout, with both sides battling for territory early.

Neither team was able to score before quarter-time, as momentum remained difficult to control.

The second quarter was just as congested with limited scoring opportunities for both the Bulldogs and the hosts.

After half-time, the Bulldogs lifted their intensity, with Mali McLeod kicking a goal to hand her side a narrow lead at the final break.

However, Williamstown responded with strong forward pressure to reclaim the lead in the final term. 

Despite a fierce push from the Bulldogs in the closing stages, they couldn’t convert their late forward entries before time expired.

Sarah Poustie led all comers with 20 disposals, seven tackles and six clearances, winning crucial contests and helping the Bulldogs edge ahead in clearances.

Captain Steph Asciak (15 disposals and eight tackles) anchored the defence, applying relentless pressure to keep the side in the hunt.

McLeod finished with one goal, five disposals and four tackles in an energetic display, while Leah Swain dominated the ruck with a commanding 46 hit-outs, giving the midfielders every chance.

Jaimi Tabb also applied fierce pressure around the ball, finishing with 10 tackles for the day.

The Bulldogs will next turn their attention to Round 8, when they host Port Melbourne at Mission Whitten Oval on Saturday 14 June with the first bounce at 11:05am AEST.

MATCH DETAILS

Western Bulldogs 0.0 0.0 1.0 1.0 (6)
Williamstown Seagulls 0.0 0.1 0.1 2.1 (13)

Goals: McLeod.