The Footscray Bulldogs have recorded a commanding 28-point victory over the Gold Coast SUNS, defeating the hosts 12.11 (83) to 7.13 (55) at People First Stadium on a bright but windy afternoon.

The swirling breeze played a factor from the start, with both sides finding it difficult to capitalise on their early opportunities.

Footscray looked dangerous inside forward 50, but strong defensive pressure from both teams kept the scoreboard quiet.

With the ball spending much of the opening term locked in the midfield, the contest remained tight.

Footscray created late confidence, applying relentless forward pressure and piling on five goals to establish a healthy advantage.

The visitors broke through late in the second quarter, while also keeping the SUNS goalless heading into the main break.

The ‘Scray continued to build into the third quarter, lifting their pressure around the contest and gaining control of the game.

Improved set-shot accuracy proved a key difference, while their defensive work prevented the SUNS from building any sustained momentum.

The hosts attempted to mount a late comeback, but the visitors remained composed under pressure, closing out a convincing 28-point victory.

Vice-captain Cooper Craig-Peters had a best-on-gorund performance, finishing with 34 disposals, 13 clearances, 11 tackles and two goals. Oskar Baker and Tristan Maple also found plenty of the footy with 27 disposals apiece.

It was a day for multiple-goal contributors, with Craig-Peters, Jack Billings, Laird Ramshaw and Will Darcy all slotting a pair of majors.

Footscray will fly back home for Round 18, taking on Richmond in a Saturday-afternoon clash at Mission Whitten Oval.

Match Details

GOLD COAST SUNS 0.2 0.6 3.8 7.13 (55)
FOOTSCRAY BULLDOGS 2.5 7.9 12.11 12.11 (83)

Goals: Craig-Peters 2, Billings 2, Ramshaw 2, Darcy 2, Kardachi, Gallagher, Jaques, Emmett
Best: Craig-Peters, Billings, Jaques, Baker, Carmichael, Cleary