Western Bulldogs captain De Berry says she is proud of the way the team fought against Brisbane on Wednesday night.
A scoreless opening quarter allowed the hosts to establish an early lead – eventually running out 47-point winners - but Berry said the way the group responded after quarter-time showed glimpses of what this team is capable of.
“I think our girls fought really well. We were strong and brave in the contest at times – (the Lions) built a lot of momentum which we were able to shift, so I think that (shows) we have a lot of resilience,” she said post-game.
“If we start bringing that (effort) to the start of games, we can really start strong and can stem from there.
“That four-quarter effort is what we’re striving for. It’s all about that development and education.
“We’re building really nicely as a united group, so I think the next phase is about playing four quarters of footy and keeping that energy (throughout).
“That team-first culture is what we are building here, and I’m really proud of the girls for today.”
Coach Tam Hyett echoed Berry’s assessment.
“After a disappointing start structurally and not being able to get hands on the footy in the first quarter, I was really happy with the resolve of the girls,” she told media post-match.
“I think spirit and energy has a big part to play with our group, and I love what they brought tonight.
“Initially they got the jump on us on the outside, so we wanted to (make it) more of a contest. I think the players did really well to set-up after quarter-time.
“I think we’re yet to work out what our best is, but we’re heading in the right direction after today. (We’re seeing) some little wins along the way – our contest work and our ability to turn up was really good in that second half.”
A four-quarter performance is the Dogs’ next challenge, and fortunately don’t have to wait too long before their chance to put it into effect against Collingwood on Sunday.
“I think we’re finally starting to get some nourishment for effort – which we potentially didn’t have after the first few games – but their belief is growing,” Hyett said.
“We have to remember this is a young group and we’ve had a big (list) turnover, so it’s going to take time building that cohesion and that trust amongst each other.
“I think today was a real glimpse of (what it can look like) if we stick together and stick to our processes.
“It’s a quick turnaround – we’ll review (this game) tonight and then once we get on the plane it’s all about Collingwood.”
The AFLW Bulldogs will meet the Pies at Victoria Park on Sunday afternoon in their second match of Week 4.
