An impressive five-goal haul from key forward Josh Schache has led the Footscray Bulldogs to a 67-point win over the Gold Coast Suns, to kick off their 2021 VFL campaign at VU Whitten Oval on Saturday.

The Dogs held the lead for the entirety of the match after kicking the first five majors implementing a fast-paced, high-pressure game plan to unsettle the Suns.

Lin Jong (24 disposals, one goal) and Will Hayes (28 disposals, 11 marks) were dominant in the midfield, with the Bulldogs moving the ball swiftly through the corridor.

The intensity was elevated by the combination of Riley Garcia and Robbie McComb’s attack on the game, laying an incredible nine and seven tackles respectively to go with 24 disposals apiece.

Jamarra Ugle-Hagan made his presence known within the opening minutes of the game, launching a long ball from the wing and watching it bounce through for one of his two goals, with Louis Butler and Reuben William also kicking two goals each.

The Bulldogs had opened up a 24-point lead at quarter time and extended their lead further at each change.

It was a well-rounded performance from the whole team, with 14 AFL-listed players in amongst a strong VFL side.

Lachie Sullivan collected 23 disposals in his first game as Footscray skipper.

The Bulldogs will hit the road for round two, taking on the GWS Giants in Blacktown on Thursday night.

FOOTSCRAY BULLDOGS               5.2       10.5     13.10   16.13   (109)
GOLD COAST                                   1.2       3.4       4.4       6.6       (42) 

Goals
Footscray: Schache 5, Butler 2, Ugle-Hagan 2, William 2, Jong, Wallis, West, Glass-McCasker, Hannan.
Gold Coast: Murtagh 2, Harris 2, Brodie, Reeves.

Best
Footscray: Hayes, Jong, Garcia, Schache, McComb, Sullivan, West.