The Footscray Bulldogs have recorded a 44-point defeat to Sydney in the 2022 VFL season opener.
The Bulldogs found themselves within arms’ reach in the second half - even snatching the lead for a moment - but the Swans stormed home in the 6.10 (46) to 13.12 (90) affair.
A low-scoring opening term saw just a pair of goals kicked between the two teams, with Sydney taking a 13-point lead into the first break.
Josh Schache converted for the Bulldogs’ first of the year early in the second term, before back-to-back goals from the visitors extended their lead out to 21 points.
But Footscray managed to find some momentum, booting three consecutive goals in just over four minutes to level the scores at half-time.
The third term was more of an arm wrestle, with just a handful of points separating the two for most of the quarter.
But the Swans quickly swung momentum back in their favour, closing out the game with six of the last seven goals.
AFL-listed Bulldog and 2021 Footscray Best-and- Fairest Robbie McComb found plenty of the footy, finishing with 36 possessions, 10 marks and a goal.
Mitch Wallis was good in the middle, registering 26 disposals, while Cody Raak impressed with 22 touches and 11 marks.
The Bulldogs will look to bounce back when they meet the Northern Bullants in round two.
MATCH DETAILS
FOOTSCRAY 0.3 4.6 5.9 6.10 (46)
SYDNEY 2.4 4.6 7.10 13.12 (90)
Goals: Schache 2, Gilbee, Van de Heuvel, McComb, Butler.