Three of the key takeaways from the Western Bulldogs’ round one win against the Sydney Swans at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night.

  1. Naughton is a star

Forward or back?

Aaron Naughton is only 19 years old, entering his second season, but it’s clear to see he’s a special player.

After finishing fourth in the Bulldogs’ best and fairest as primarily a key defender, Naughton was pushed forward ahead of the team’s second JLT Community Series match this year.

He kicked 3.2 from 16 disposals, collected six marks, and was a real presence in a forward line that looked threatening for much of Saturday evening’s encounter.

 

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  1. Recruits play their roles perfectly

Sam Lloyd and Taylor Duryea were targeted by the Bulldogs over the off-season, and it was clear to see why after their round one performances.

Duryea was a leader down back with 15 disposals – and a thumping goal from outside 50 – while Lloyd collected 22 disposals to go with his two goals.

The ‘HMAS Lllllllooooooyd’ set sail (see below) from beyond the arc early in the piece, before sealing the contest late.

They both looked right at home in the red, white and blue.

 

ROUND 1 MATCH HIGHLIGHTS – BULLDOGS VS SWANS

 

  1. The response under pressure

A lead of 40 points was cut to just four, as the Swans came hard in the second half.

Nervous times?

Not for the Bulldogs, who, donning their superhero capes, found another gear late in the piece to seal a deserved win.

Bontempelli’s goal was huge – capping off an elite performance – but how good was the kick from Toby McLean to ensure he could run into an open goal without breaking stride.

 

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And 3.5? Thor and Jason Bourne in the house

Enough said.