The Footscray Bulldogs were defeated by the Gold Coast Suns on Saturday afternoon at TIO Stadium.

It was too tough in the Top End, as the Suns stormed home eight goals to one in the 21.16 (142) to 10.17 (77) interstate loss.

It was a battle for possession in the opening minutes of the match, as the Bulldogs struggled to effectively convert their chances.

Laitham Vandermeer was first to put the ‘Scray on the scoreboard with an explosive goal from the 50-metre mark.

A successful turnover early in the second term saw Rhylee West nail the set shot and bring the margin back within two goals.

Joshua Chatfield was next to join the Bulldogs goal-scorer list by kicking his first VFL goal for the season.

The spectacles had only just begun as Chatfield launched with a mark-of-the-year contender to win the contest and promptly earn his second goal.

Three goals from three centre clearances in a row resulted in Hayden Crozier adding to the scoreboard before the main break, bringing the Dogs within 22 points.

The third term opened with Luke Goater nailing a running goal through the goal square, followed by Chatfield striking again to kick his third major for the match.

The highlights continued as 2022 draftee and debutant Harvey Gallagher read a bit of play beautifully to blast through the middle and boot his first goal.

As the Bulldogs' momentum increased, Toby McLean delivered by slotting one between the sticks to mark back-to-back majors for the Bulldogs before quarter time.

Despite their efforts, the Dogs' bark and bite was ultimately not enough, with inaccuracy and a late Suns' surge proving too much. 

The AFL talent was evident, with McLean leading the disposal count collecting 24 touches, three clearances and one goal.

West was instrumental in the field, totalling 22 touches, six clearances, five tackles and one goal.

Robbie McComb was next in line, polishing 20 disposals and seven clearances, while Crozier collected 19 touches and a goal.

Jordon Sweet continued his defensive efforts in the contest mopping up 21 hit outs and three tackles.

Leading from the centre was captain Lachie Sullivan recording 16 touches and four clearances.

The Bulldogs will seek redemption when they come face-to-face with the Geelong Cats next Saturday 2:35pm at Avalon Airport Oval.

GOLD COAST SUNS    3.6   8.11   13.13   21.16  (142)

FOOTSCRAY    1.5  5.8  9.12   10.17  (77)

Goals: Chatfield 4, West 1, Vandermeer 1, McLean 1, Goater 1, Gallagher 1, Crozier 1.