Footscray has defeated Carlton by 21 points in a scrappy evening at IKON Park.The Dogs’ accuracy ultimately proved the difference, holding their nerve despite Carlton dominating the scoring opportunities 28–19.

In a see-sawing affair, the Dogs showed an ability to use their run from defensive half effectively, with their transition at times brilliant.

Captain Dan Orgill was a standout around the contest, while Lachlan Smith provided his midfielders with first use across the game.

Up forward, Laird Ramshaw shone with three goals, while Chan Hargraves and Will Darcy continued to show promising signs.

The backline charge was led by Nick Coffield and Luke Cleary, who were pivotal in setting up rebound opportunities.

Ged Saunders clears the ball during the practice match against Carlton.

Quarter one:

Carlton were fast out of the blocks, controlling play with quick movement from the centre to generate repeated forward-half entries.

However, while the Blues controlled possession, they were unable to capitalise in front of goal.

That inefficiency opened the door for the Dogs, whose clean and fast ball movement resulted in early goals to Will Darcy and Lachie McNeil.

Laird Ramshaw also impressed with two first-quarter majors, as Footscray found rhythm later in the term to take a five-point lead into the first break.

Chan Hargraves breaks free on his way to kicking his second goal.

Quarter two:

The Dogs found their flow in the second quarter, halting any momentum the Blues may have been building.

With Lachlan Smith providing silver service to a midfield led by Dan Orgill, Footscray piled on four goals to a single behind, showcasing their fast-paced ball movement.

Chan Hargraves continued his strong form from last week’s clash against Box Hill, once again hitting the scoreboard.

Jack Billings also impressed, spending time in the middle before drifting forward to combine with Will Darcy for a goal of his own.

Footscray’s ability to run and carry, and create space through effective use of the switch, saw them take control and head into the main break with a 31-point lead.

Will Lewis sends the ball forward line during the practice match against Carlton.

Quarter three:

The third term returned to a similar see-sawing pattern to the opening quarter, with Carlton steadying through repeat forward-half entries.

However, the Dogs worked their way back into the contest as the quarter progressed, with Orgill leading by example and featuring in just about every contest.

He was well supported by co-captains Billy Crofts and Cooper Craig-Peters, who made their presence felt and applied strong pressure around the ball.

Footscray made the most of their chances through Connor Smith, while the Blues continued to struggle to convert.

Down back, Coffield and Cleary remained composed under pressure, with Lachie McNeil providing plenty of run across the ground.

Captain Dan Orgill celebrates following the win against the Blues.

Quarter four:

The final quarter was once again a back-and-forth battle, with neither side able to fully take control.

Carlton won the term overall, as Footscray were wasteful with their limited opportunities in front of goal.

Still, the Dogs managed to hit the scoreboard through Luca Muratore, while Harvey Gallagher’s hard-running efforts were finally rewarded with a late goal.

The final margin of 21 points was testament to Footscray’s cleanliness around the contest and their ability to create better opportunities in front of goal.

MATCH SUMMARY:

Carlton 2.8 2.9 3.16 6.22 (58)
Footscray 4.1 8.4 10.6 12.7 (79)

Goals: Ramshaw 3, Hargraves 2, Darcy 2, McNeil, Billings, Smith, Muratore, Gallagher

Best(s): Ramshaw, Orgill, Smith, McNeil, Coffield