Footscray has secured a VFL semi-final spot after comprehensively defeating the Casey Demons by 79-points on Saturday afternoon.
The Bulldogs led from start to finish and won every quarter on their way to the 22.16 (148) to 10.9 (69) victory.
It was Footscray’s 11th win in a row, and set up a Semi Final clash with either Werribee or Box Hill.
Hayden Crozier displayed his senior-listed talent, finishing with 28 disposals and 13 marks.
Caleb Poulter continued his impressive form with 26 touches, 15 marks, three tackles and three goals.
Riley Garcia finished with 26 touches, three tackles, four clearances and three goals, while Toby McLean collected 25 possessions, five clearances and five tackles.
Jordon Sweet continued to impress with 42 hitouts, 19 disposals, five tackles and five clearances.
Buku Khamis booted three goals, while captain Lachie Sullivan led the disposal count with 29 touches, to go along with six clearances and two goals.
Consistent pressure from both sides saw scores level late in the first quarter, but a brisk major from Charlie Clarke broke the deadlock and activated the Dogs’ momentum.
Winners are grinners 😁
— Footscray Bulldogs (@FootscrayVFL) September 2, 2023
🎶 SONS OF THE WEST 🎶 pic.twitter.com/xFCGBuYG55
Footscray was able to seize the initiative when registering three goals in four minutes by Caleb Poulter, Lachie Sullivan and Cooper Craig-Peters, to seal the first term.
The Sherrin was in Footscray’s front half for majority of the second term and it was reflected on the scoreboard, when majors from Poulter, Rhylee West and Garcia extended the lead to a 41-point margin.
Efficient conversion from turnovers, and ultimately capitalising on those opportunities, continued to fuel the Dogs’ domination in the second half.
FOOTSCRAY 5.3 10.9 16.11 22.16 (148)
CASEY 2.4 5.4 6.9 10.9 (69)
Goals: Poulter 3, Khamis 3, Garcia 3, Clarke 2, West 2, Sullivan 2, Macpherson 2, Craig-Peters 2, Sweet, Goater