The Western Bulldogs marked their fifth consecutive win with a thrilling 10-point victory over the Southern Saints at Mission Whitten Oval on Saturday afternoon.
In a fiercely contested battle, the Bulldogs came out on top in the 5.4 (34) to 3.6 (24) win, propelling them into the top three on the VFLW ladder.
The opening quarter was hard-fought, with both sides struggling to convert their forward 50 entries.
Despite the Bulldogs' relentless pressure, it wasn't until the final moments that London Ashcroft kicked her first goal of the VFLW season, leaving the hosts trailing by just one point at quarter-time.
The second quarter saw the intensity escalate, with the Saints dominating in coast-to-coast transitions and creating numerous inside 50 opportunities.
However, the Bulldogs countered with precision through Isadora McLeay and Dominique Carbone, edging the Dogs ahead by two points at the main break.
Despite the Bulldogs and Saints being at opposite ends of the VFLW ladder, the contest remained tight heading into the third quarter. The host’s strong defence kept the Saints from scoring any majors after halftime, leading to a tense final quarter with both teams fighting hard for control.
But in the closing four minutes, Jaimi Tabb delivered the decisive blow - kicking the match-winning goal for the Bulldogs.
Key players included Keeley Hardingham, who racked up 22 disposals, nine tackles, 29 hit outs and a goal.
Skipper Carbone contributed 21 disposals, seven tackles and a goal, while McLeay was solid defensively with 21 touches, 10 tackles and a goal.
Sarah Skinner celebrated her 50th VFLW match with 14 disposals, six tackles and three clearances.
The Western Bulldogs will look to extend their winning streak to six and further cement their ladder position when they face Geelong away on Saturday at 11am.
Match Details
WESTERN BULLDOGS: 1.1 3.4 4.4 5.4 (34)
SOUTHERN SAINTS: 1.2 3.2 3.5 3.6 (24)
Goals: Tabb, McLeay, Hardingham, Carbone and Ashcroft.
