The Western Bulldogs have fallen short to the Casey Demons in their first round of the 2023 VFLW season at Mars Stadium.
The Bulldogs tried hard and stayed close all day, but it was the visitors’ opportunities in front of goal that ultimately hurt the most in the 4.4 (28) to 5.12 (42) affair.
Two goals from Mali McLeod bought the Dogs to a three-point margin by the end of the first term.
In her first game for the red, white and blue, Jaimi Tabb kicked one goal bringing the Dogs to a one-point margin before the half time break.
Kicking her third goal in the third term, McLeod put the Dogs in front and it quickly became a nail-biter.
The Dogs fought ‘til the end but the Demons were ultimately too strong - kicking away to a 14-point margin.
The Bulldogs' tackle pressure was magnificent across each term.
Tabb and Amanda Ling led the stats sheet with game-high nine tackles each, while Tahlia Meier impressed with 26 touches.
McLeod was a stand-out kicking three brilliant goals from nine disposals.
The Bulldogs will next face the Hawks at Box Hill City Oval on Saturday 1 April at 12pm.
WESTERN BULLDOGS 2.0 3.4 4.4 4.4 (28)
CASEY DEMONS 2.4 3.5 4.8 5.12 (42)
Goals: McLeod 3, Tabb 1.
