The Footscray Bulldogs have emerged victorious after a nerve-wracking Qualifying Final against the Brisbane Lions at Mission Whitten Oval on Saturday afternoon.

In a see-saw final quarter, the Dogs got their noses in front at the very end to come away with an enthralling 12.10 (82) to 12.6 (78) victory and earn a week off.

It was not until the final few seconds of the game that the Dogs secured their fate and moved straight into a Preliminary Final.

In windy conditions at Mission Whitten Oval, the weather proved difficult for both teams throughout the match.

The opening quarter saw Brisbane dominate ball movement, as the winds played strongly in the visitors' favour.

As the second term unfolded, Footscray’s transition in play was commanding, however the Dogs struggled to capitalise in front of goals with the wind advantage going their way.

Arty Jones helped to boost the Dogs' momentum late in the term kicking two goals, however the inability to capitalise when they had the upper hand saw the boys in red, white and blue trail by four points heading into the main change.

Difficult conditions continued to play a factor in the third, but defensive pressure from the Dogs was a significant factor in keeping the visitors in touch as they kicked into the wind.

Goals from Jones and Daniel Orgill kept the Dogs within reach of the Lions, trailing by just nine points heading into the final term.

With the wind at their backs, Footscray remained efficient in possession in the final term with alternating scoring continuing between the two sides.

With seconds to go, Ryan Gardner was awarded a down field free kick and snapped the match winning goal to secure a dramatic win for Footscray.

Nerves ensued as Brisbane had a final kick for goal on the siren to put them back in front, however the set shot missed to the right, sending Footscray straight through to a home Preliminary Final.

Jones was a shining light up forward, booting three crucial goals for the Dogs, while James Harmes finished as the match’s highest ball winner with 36 disposals.

Footscray's focus will now be on a home Preliminary Final in two weeks’ time.

Match Details

FOOTSCRAY: 2.1 5.8 7.8 12.10 (82)
BRISBANE LIONS: 3.3 5.4 9.5 12.6 (78)

Goals: Jones 3, Khamis 2, Smith, Orgill, Clarke, Baker, West, Harmes, Gardner