The Footscray Bulldogs have gone down 6.12 (48) to 8.11 (59)  to Sandringham at Mission Whitten Oval, with the Sandringham Zebras holding on to claim the four points after a hard-fought battle.

In a rematch of the pre-season encounter, both sides came out with plenty to fight for from the opening bounce.

Footscray applied immense pressure inside 50 early, matching the visitors’ intensity around the contest, seeing them even at quarter time.

The second quarter saw the teams go goal-for-goal as neither side were willing to give up the fight. Both midfields stood tall, with Footscray’s defensive unit creating a wall that proved difficult for the Zebras to break through.

Sandringham lifted its pressure, kicking two crucial goals to take a narrow lead, forcing the 'Scray to dig deep as the contest tightened.

The visitors began to pull away after half time, edging further in front. Strong defensive pressure from both teams and some inaccuracy in front of goal kept the margin within reach.

Footscray refused to back down, surging late with repeated forward 50 entries, kicking 4 goals across the second half, restricting Sandringham to just one goal in the last term.

Despite the surge, the Zebras held on to secure the win.

Daniel Orgill topped Footscrays’ stats with 28 disposals and ten tackles, while Kane Sexton and Louis Emmett led with 2 goals each, keeping the scoreboard alive.

Footscray will be on the road next week, taking on St Kilda in the VFL Round 13 clash at RSEA Park.

Match Details

FOOTSCRAY BULLDOGS 2.2 2.6 4.8 6.12 (48)
SANDRINGHAM ZEBRAS 2.2 4.4 7.9 8.11 (59)

Goals: Sexton 2, Emmett 2, Billings, Gray
Best: Crofts, Davidson, Gardner, Sexton, Orgill