1. Treloar at his best
While we probably already knew this, but seeing Adam Treloar impact the way he did on Friday night reminded the competition that his best is a force to be reckoned with. The 29-year-old was prolific against his former side, registering 35 disposals, eight clearances and four inside 50s to claim the Bob Rose-Charlie Sutton Medal. He also hit the scoreboard thrice, and is set to play his 200th career match this weekend.
2. Young guys relishing opportunities
Three of the Bulldogs’ five inclusions on Friday night might have played a collective 19 AFL games before taking to the field – but that didn’t stop them from relishing their opportunities on the big stage. Jordon Sweet was solid in the ruck, finishing with 26 hit outs and 13 disposals; Rhylee West was ferocious and physical at the contest with 16 touches and five tackles; and debutant Luke Cleary was electric off half-back, collecting 13 disposals and seven marks. Add in defender-turned-forward Buku Khamis, who bagged three goals in his third AFL game, and you’ve got a group of youngsters making the most of their time at senior level.
3. It’s good to have Bont back
The Bulldogs’ skipper was managed out of last round’s loss to Port Adelaide, returning on Friday night and picking up exactly where he left off. Marcus Bontempelli’s impact around the ground was important, registering 26 touches, eight marks, five tackles, five clearances and six inside 50s while slotting a late goal to help seal the win. Averaging 21.1 disposals and 5.5 marks (ranked elite), the 26-year-old has also hit the scoreboard in every game he’s played this year.
