Footscray's slick ball movement and relentless pressure has powered them to a dominant 45-point win over Richmond at Marvel Stadium.
The Bulldogs stamped their authority early, resulting in a 13.12 (90) to 6.9 (45) win.
Caleb Poulter ignited the spark with two clinical goals, while Lachie Jaques’ major secured a seven-point lead at the first break, with their sharp ball movement carving through Richmond’s defence.
The second term became a fierce arm-wrestle. Billy Crofts opened with a fiery goal to keep the Bulldogs in the contest.
After Richmond’s surge, Footscray trailed by just a solitary point at half-time, setting the stage for an electric second half.
After the main break, the Bulldogs shifted gears.
The third quarter saw them string together seamless chains of play, wresting back control with composure and precision.
Footscray’s relentless intensity continued in the final quarter, sealing a commanding 45-point victory.
The Bulldogs controlled the tempo throughout, with their midfield driving the attack and the backline, led by Jaques standing firm.
Riley Garcia dominated with 37 disposals and 10 clearances, leading a strong midfield unit.
Jedd Busslinger (29 disposals, eight marks) and Taylor Duryea (28 disposals, six marks) provided stability, while Billy Crofts impressed with 27 disposals, nine clearances and a goal.
Up forward, Will Lewis was clinical with three goals. Caleb Poulter added two goals and 19 disposals, while Diesel Moloney’s two goals sparked the final term.
Xavier Kardachi also booted two majors, while Lachie Jaques anchored the defence with 14 disposals and a goal.
Ryan Gardner (22 disposals, 11 marks) and Luke Cleary (20 disposals, nine marks) were rock-solid down back.
Lachlan Smith gave Footscray first use with 33 hitouts and 16 disposals in the ruck.
Anthony Scott (20 disposals, six tackles and one goal) and Ewan MacPherson (16 disposals and nine tackles) applied relentless pressure around the contest.
Footscray will look to build on this momentum when they face the Sydney Swans in Round 14 at the SCG on Friday 27 June, with the first bounce at 2:05pm AEST.
Match summary:
Footscray Bulldogs 3.2 4.4 8.9 13.12 (90)
Richmond 2.1 4.5 5.9 6.9 (45)
Goals: Lewis 3, Poulter 2, Moloney 2, Kardachi 2, Croft, Crofts, Jaques, Scott.
