A dominant third quarter has put Footscray back on the winners list after recording a 13-point victory over Essendon at VU Whitten Oval.
A back-and-forth battle opened up in the second half as the Bulldogs piled on seven goals in the third to run out 13.12 (90) to 11.11 (77) victors and record their second win of the 2022 VFL season.
After an early Essendon goal, the red-hot Buku Khamis opened Footscray’s account as the Dogs capitalised on their chances to take a 14-point lead into the first change.
Returning players in Dom Bedendo and skipper Lachie Sullivan both hit the scoreboard in the first, but Essendon fought back with some clean passages in the second to hold a three-point lead at the main break.
The low-scoring contest was burst open early in the second half with two Footscray goals inside two minutes, including an electric Arthur Jones goal on the run within 20 seconds.
A shootout ensued as the Bombers replied with two of their own, before everything was coming up red, white, and blue - piling on the final five goals of the quarter to enjoy a 28-point lead heading into the fourth.
The Bulldogs held firm, despite some late pressure from the opposition, managing their highest score of the season so far in the win.
Jamarra Ugle-Hagan took some strong marks in the final quarter and bagged himself a goal, but it was Khamis who stole the show up forward with a very efficient four majors from five kicks.
Dom Bedendo was the only other multiple goal-kicker as he snagged two in his return game, while Sullivan (23 disposals, nine tackles, five clearances) was back to his usual output after missing last week.
Hayden Crozier led all comers for the Dogs mopping up in defence with 27 touches, seven marks, and six tackles, while Rhylee West (23 disposals, five clearances) was instrumental with some goal assists and pivotal clearances.
Jordon Sweet again showed his dominance in the ruck department at VFL level with another 37 hit-outs.
Luke Cleary (23 disposals) also managed to find plenty of it, as Louis Butler hit the scoreboard with a goal from his 17 disposals.
Cody Raak continues to put up solid performances in the defensive half recording 16 touches and nine marks, with Josh Kellett also showing dash and poise on the rebound with a goal to boot.
A bye next week will see Footscray next play against Collingwood at the AIA Centre on Saturday 14 May at 2:05pm.
MATCH DETAILS
Footscray 3.2 4.3 11.10 13.12 (90)
Essendon 1.2 4.6 7.6 11.11 (77)
Goals: Khamis 4, Bedendo 2, Sullivan, Parker, Butler, Garner, Jones, Kellett, Ugle-Hagan
