In warm Saturday conditions, the Footscray Bulldogs outlasted the Box Hill Hawks to deliver a statement victory on away turf.
While the Hawks showed flashes of dominance, the Bulldogs maintained their strength throughout all four quarters to defeat the ladder leaders 11.7 (73) to 7.12 (54).
The match was intense from the start, as both teams assessed each other’s structure during a back-and-forth first quarter.
The second quarter then saw the Bulldogs gain traction. With the Dogs dominating every corridor chance for the Hawks, they skilfully maintained the ball’s momentum into forward pockets.
Entering the half-time break 10 points ahead though, the battle between the teams intensified after the break.
Footscray opened the third quarter strongly, with early goals from Luke Kennedy, Josh Dolan and Lachie Jaques extending their advantage. Then – the home side fought back, testing the Bulldogs’ resolve by finding glimpses of momentum.
However, any hopes of a Hawks comeback were quietened in the last quarter. Footscray maintained control and stayed firm by keeping the ball in the half-forward pocket, to secure their tenth successive win. .
In the midfield, Michael Sellwood and Nick Coffield led the way with a game-high 27 disposals each. Sellwood’s impact went beyond possession, taking nine marks and controlling the game. Coffield impressed with 20 kicks and eight tackles.
Billy Crofts was a key figure around the ground. He collected 24 disposals, an impressive 19 marks and seven tackles. His efforts consistently created scoring chances.
Anthony Scott and Cooper Hynes worked hard through the middle. Both finished with 21 disposals each and applied heavy pressure with multiple tackles.
On the wings, Josh Kellett and Cooper Craig-Peters combined strong ball use with tough tackling. Each gathered 20 disposals apiece and helped break up the opposition’s play.
Up forward, Jaques was a vital scoring option, kicking two goals from 17 disposals. Jordan Croft was clinical in front of goal, converting three majors from 13 touches.
Will Lewis also impressed, kicking three goals from just nine disposals.
In defence and transition, Zac Walker and Ewan MacPherson contributed 15 disposals each, helping maintain momentum and pressure on the Hawks.
As Round 21 approaches to decide the minor premiership winners; the Footscray Bulldogs gear up to take on Carlton at Mission Whitten Oval on August 17.
First bounce is scheduled for 12:05pm AEST.
Footscray Bulldogs: 4.1 5.1 9.5 11.7 (73)
Box Hill Hawks: 1.2 2.9 5.11 7.12 (54)
Goals: Lewis 3, Croft 3, Jaques 2, Dolan, Kennedy, Khamis.
