The Western Bulldogs have ramped up their preparations ahead of Round 1 with a narrow loss to Essendon at the Hangar on Wednesday afternoon.

In a tight affair, both teams couldn’t be separated for much of the contest with the Bombers kicking five of the last seven goals to run away 12.9 (81) to 11.9 (75) victors.

Ed Richards showed plenty of the half-back line for the Bulldogs, with his pace and precision kicking propelling the visitors forward on several occasions.

Adam Treloar impressed in the engine room finding ample amounts of the ball and finishing from a tight angle in the third quarter for the highlight of the day.

Josh Dunkley was solid floating across the half back and through the midfield, while Jason Johannisen kicked three goals for the away side.

The Dogs imposed themselves on the game early, kicking early majors via Mitch Hannan and Stef Martin.

A couple of strong pack marks from Aaron Naughton kept a slender lead for the Dogs heading into the main break, with a number of players being rested for the second half, including Marcus Bontempelli and Caleb Daniel.

Three straight goals from Johannisen, Treloar and Laith Vandermeer pushed margin past three goals at the final break, however a late charge for Essendon was enough to take victory in the final term.

The Dogs will next face Brisbane at Marvel Stadium on Friday night in an AAMI Community Series fixture.

ESSENDON                          1.5          5.8          7.8          12.9 (81)
WESTERN BULLDOGS        2.4          6.6          9.8          11.9 (75)

Goals: Johannisen 3, Naughton 2, Bontempelli Hunter, Martin, Hannan, Vandermeer, Treloar