Western Bulldogs coach Tam Hyett says she is most proud of the way her group reset after half-time against Euro-Yroke on Sunday.
The Bulldogs started slow at Mars Stadium, building into the match before stealing the lead in the final quarter and holding on for a thrilling one-point win over the Saints.
“We weren’t overly happy with what we were delivering structurally in the first half, but we found a way – especially in that last two-minute period where we were under the pump,” she said post-match.
“That want not to be beaten – that’s real grit from our group.
“We want to be better every week. That means every area – our pressure, contest, offence, defence...we were really desperate today to continue on from the good work we did last week and it showed.”
Hyett praised the leadership group for their ability to impact and influence on-field, in particular 50-gamer Jess Fitzgerald.
“The leaders have been great all year - De in particular (was one) that reset after half-time, but even Pritchy who was leading from the front as well,” Hyett said.
“Elle Bennetts is a pretty unsung leader amongst our group, but she does the little things really well and is almost like another coach out there.
“Even Fitzy in her 50th game – she was just awesome. Watching her from afar even before taking on this role, I was really impressed by her skill.
“Getting to know her a little bit and then seeing her behind closed doors – she just puts so much work into her craft. She’s also just a great person of influence off-field as well. She’s a ripper.
“She’s one who is driving this group to be better. It was really fitting – her first game she debuted against the Saints and lost, so it was nice to turn the tables.”
The Bulldogs will meet Walyalup (Fremantle) at 7.05pm AEDT in WA this Sunday, for the final match of the home-and-away season.
