Fourth-quarter fight

After a sluggish start in the match simulation, the Bulldogs slotted the final four goals to seal the win.

It’s not too dissimilar from what we saw from the Dogs last season – storming home on multiple occasions to either win the quarter or the match.  

While it will be important not to let teams get ahead too early, it’s reassuring to know that the Bulldogs will continue fighting until the very end.

01:35

Sarah Hartwig | 'Glad we held on in the end'

Twiggy discusses the win over the Hawks, following her two-goal performance - including the game winning goal.

New faces impress

Two of the Dogs’ three recruits donned the red, white and blue for the first time, in Maggie Gorham and Dom Carruthers.

Both impressed in their first appearances – with hard running and repeat efforts visible from the duo.

Carruthers spent a period of time playing inside, while Gorham divided her minutes on the wing and at centre bounce – even pushing inside-50 for her maiden major.

Return of Roarsy

18 months after rupturing her ACL, Aurora Smith returned to the action and did not miss a beat.

The 19-year-old impacted well and was involved in a number of big plays, highlighting her bravery and relentlessness.

Hopefully she can continue to bring that fierceness in future outings.

MATCH SIMULATION GALLERY >> CHECK OUT THE BEST PHOTOS

Moving the magnets

Elle Bennetts predominately in defence, Sarah Hartwig and Gemma Lagioia settled as forwards, and Lizzy Georgostathis drifting off half-back.

A number of Bulldogs spent the match simulation in lines different to their traditional season seven starting positions.

Whether it’s a sign of what’s to come, or a temporary solution while we wait to regain some troops – we liked what we saw.

MATCH DETAILS*

HAWTHORN 0.5 2.6 3.8 (26)

WESTERN BULLDOGS 0.0 1.1 5.1 (31)

Goals: Hartwig 2, Lagioia, Gorham, Fitzgerald.

*Match format: Three 18-minute periods.