MATCH SUMMARY
The Gold Coast Suns have spoiled the Western Bulldogs’ strong start to the season, winning their Round 3 contest by five points at Marvel Stadium.
The Suns’ six-goal first quarter proved the difference between the two sides in the end, despite a last-gasp effort by the Dogs to snatch victory.
After being kept at arm’s length all afternoon, the Bulldogs roared to life in the final quarter.
They kicked the last three goals of the game, and Billy Gowers had a set shot sail just wide with 30 seconds remaining before the siren stopped the Dogs in the tracks.
THE DEFINING MOMENTS
The start. The Suns shot out of the blocks with six of the first eight goals. It created a buffer which the Dogs couldn’t quite reel in, despite their late charge.
As they did the previous week against the Hawks, the Dogs completely dominated the second quarter. Again, they failed to capitalise on the scoreboard, kicking just two goals to the Suns’ one.
SHINING LIGHTS
Bailey Smith continues to show signs he’s got what it takes to be a quality AFL player. He produced his most profitable game so far for the Bulldogs, collecting 22 disposals (13 contested), winning four clearances and laying six tackles.
Marcus Bontempelli was a constant threat to the Suns, and he helped drag the Bulldogs back into contention after their slow start. He finished with 34 touches (third highest tally in his career).
Matthew Suckling was also important in defence, both with his ability to neutralise dangerous situations or thrust the Dogs forward from the back half.
STATS KINGS
For the third week running, Jack Macrae won more than 30 disposals. Against the Suns he finished with 33, taking his average this season to 34 per match. He also had an equal game-high nine tackles and went at 81% efficiency.
Tom Liberatore continued his strong start to the year, racking up 30 disposals for the first time since the 2016 season.
Aaron Naughton took nine marks – the second time he has achieved that number in his 21 games to date.
MATCH DETAILS
Western Bulldogs 2.4 4.8 5.10 9.14.68
Gold Coast 6.4 7.6 8.11 10.13.73
Goals
Western Bulldogs: Dunkley 2, Suckling, Lloyd, McLean, Dickson, Wallis, Naughton, Gowers
Gold Coast: Sexton 2, McPherson 2, Swallow 2, Martin, Burgess, Miles, Bowes
Best
Western Bulldogs: Bontempelli, Liberatore, Hunter, Suckling, Macrae, Wallis, Daniel
Gold Coast: Martin, Fiorini, Miller, Bowes, Witts, Harbrow, Collins
UP NEXT
Round 4, Collingwood vs Western Bulldogs, MCG, Friday April 13, 7.50pm
