Western Bulldogs forward Brit Gutknecht says there is no better feeling than winning at Mission Whitten Oval.
Breaking through for their first win at home in over 950 days, Gutknecht’s clutch last-quarter goal saw her team salute over the Swans.
“I missed one earlier in the game...so I just went back, stuck to my routine and knew I needed to kick it which I did,” Gutknecht said post-match.
“Winning at Whitten is just the best experience – in front of our home crowd...it just feels really special.
“We’ve been building each week and sticking to our method. It’s finally working and we’re being consistent now.”
Coach Tam Hyett praised the 23-year-old, who finished with 15 disposals, four marks and the match-winning goal.
“She’s been putting in a lot of work without probably not a lot of, what she thinks, is impact,” Hyett told media.
“She’s having a massive impact without the scoreboard or disposals, but she’s also playing a really crucial role up forward.
“It was nice to see her finish with a goal.
“I actually couldn’t see the goal-line – I could see the people behind the goals, so that’s how I was judging it.
“When those Bulldog fans got up and about (that’s how I knew).”
Hyett also acknowledged Jess Fitzgerald’s influence since moving back into a more permanent midfield role.
“You’d like one of (Fitzy) across each line to be honest,” Hyett said.
“She’s just a talented footballer. She has a really good nous - so knows where to position herself - and has got quality skills.
“It’s nice to have her coming out of the centre.”
The Bulldogs’ next challenge will come against ladder-leaders North Melbourne at Arden Street Oval on Saturday afternoon.
