The Western Bulldogs have fallen short to Williamstown in the VFLW Qualifying Final on Sunday afternoon.

The Dogs stuck with the Seagulls for the majority of the match, but a late surge from the hosts resulted in the 7.3 (45) to 4.3 (27) defeat.

Luckily, the Dogs will have a second chance in the semi-finals next weekend. 

The Bulldogs' defence stood strong in the opening term, keeping Williamstown to one goal despite the majority of play being spent in the opposition's forward 50.

Regardless of the low-scoring nature of the first half, the Dogs held onto a small lead to head into the main break with a one-point buffer.

A turn of events in the second half saw the Dogs struggle to maintain this lead as Williamstown kicked away with three unanswered goals to start the third quarter.

Last-ditched effort goals from Eleanor Bishop and Renee Saulitis saw the Dogs narrow the margin to seven points in the final term, but Williamstown’s attacking force was too strong, ultimately outlasting the Bulldogs.

Sarah Skinner was the game's highest ball-winner, finishing with 17 disposals and four clearances.

Keeley Hardingham also impressed, racking up a game-high 25 hit-outs and seven clearances.

The Bulldogs will now gear up to face Port Melbourne next weekend for the Semi Final.

WILLIAMSTOWN: 1.1 2.1 5.3 7.3 (45)

WESTERN BULLDOGS: 1.0 2.2 2.2 4.3 (27)

Goals: Clifford, Sandral, Bishop, Saulitis.