First Quarter
Key Plays:
It was a tightly contested quarter, with the momentum switching hands at numerous times during the term.
A courageous mark from Dylan Addison created the first shot on goal for the game, however the defensive forward was unable to convert the attempt.
Daniel Giansiracusa proved his worth in the forward line soon after, kicking the first major of the match in his first game back.
North Melbourne quickly overtook the Bulldogs on the scoreboard, kicking two majors from three consecutive shots on goal.
The Bulldogs found themselves again adding to the scoreboard, however, when a penetrating kick from Jason Johannisen out of defence initiated a chain of play resulting in a Lukas Markovic goal.
Experienced stalwarts Robert Murphy and Giansiracusa soon continued the Bulldogs momentum, when the two linked up to create a second goal.
Markovic’s shift up forward continued to look promising, with the key defender kicking a goal mid tackle - just the second in his AFL career.
The away team continued to prove dangerous with Bulldogs’ turnovers, creating plenty of run from their back half and producing a number of shots on goal from such situations.
North Melbourne ran out the quarter the strongest of the two sides, with goals to Drew Petrie and Lindsay Thomas, while Majak Daw continued to create options in the forward line.
Player of the Quarter:
Daniel Giansiracusa showed he is still capable of kicking goals in his first game back since round four against Adelaide. With two goals to his name before the first change, the veteran provided some much needed scoring power and did not miss an opportunity.
Statistical Snapshot:
- The two teams were going head to head in the clearances with nine apiece, while North was marginally in hitouts (WB8, NM9)
- Ryan Griffen was a standout in his first game back from injury with nine disposals for the quarter
- Lukas Markovic and Daniel Giansiracusa both had multiple goals for the term
Progressive scores:
Western Bulldogs 4. 1. (25) trailing North Melbourne 5. 5. (35)
Second Quarter
Key Plays:
North Melbourne opened the scoring in the second term, with Drew Petrie unable to convert.
Ryan Griffen continued his solid form on return, taking a strong mark in defence to prevent a Kangaroos goal and then following up at the other end of the ground with a goal.
The Dogs overtook the lead through a Will Minson goal from the square but the away side responded quickly, with Daw and Lindsay Thomas continuing to provide headaches in their forward line.
Luke Dahlhaus provided the next Bulldogs’ major, but again North Melbourne replied quickly through a Daw free quick in front of goals.
The intensity continued to lift as half time drew near but neither side was able to capitalise before the siren.
Player of the Quarter:
Ryan Griffen began the game in fine form and has continued to build momentum as the game progressed. With 19 possessions, one goal and a goal assist at half time, the Bulldogs’ midfielder has played an integral role in keeping his side in touch. The silky skilled Dog has also taken five marks and collected five clearances.
Statistical Snapshot:
- Tagger Nick Lower was inspirational with his defensive pressure and close checking antics, laying ten tackles in the first half.
- The Bulldogs lead the hitouts by three and the clearances by five
- Jordan Roughead has accumulated seven one per centers so far for the game.
Progressive scores:
Western Bulldogs 7. 3. (45) trail North Melbourne 8. 11. (59)
