The Footscray Bulldogs have secured their eighth consecutive win of the season in a nail-biter against Port Melbourne at Mission Whitten Oval on Saturday morning.

In a game that came down to the wire, the Bulldogs emerged victorious with a 12-point win in the 14.9 (93) to 11.15 (81) affair.

The hosts came out firing in the opening quarter, delivering one of their best starts of the season.

Dominating possession inside their forward 50, they contributed four goals from 10 scoring shots while leaving Port Melbourne with just three behinds.

The Borough responded strongly in the second quarter, narrowing the gap to just six points with aggressive attacking play.

Despite the momentum shift, the Bulldogs were able to maintain a buffer to lead by nine points at the main change.

The intensity continued into the third quarter as Port Melbourne brought their best, further pressing to keep Footscray on their toes.

The final quarter was a tense affair, with repeat stoppages, smothers and heavy contests from both sides, before Jordan Croft sealed the win in the dying minutes.

Luke Cleary was solid with 24 touches and 10 marks, while Lachie Smith’s dominance saw him finish with 37 hit-outs and 15 disposals.

Cooper Craig-Peters impressed with 28 disposals, nine clearances and two goals, while Trent Bianco (27 disposals, nine clearances, one goal) was just as important.

Croft enjoyed one of his best outings to date, booting three goals from 11 disposals.

The Footscray Bulldogs will look to continue their undefeated run when they face Collingwood in a curtain-raiser at Marvel Stadium on Friday afternoon.

Match Details

FOOTSCRAY BULLDOGS: 4.6 7.6 12.7 14.9 (93)
PORT MELBOURNE: 0.3 5.9 8.13 11.15 (81)

Goals: Croft 3, McNeil 2, Lobb 2, Craig-Peters 2, Willoughby, Poulter, Jones, Bianco, Bedendo.