The Footscray Bulldogs triumphed over the Werribee Tigers in a nail-biting Round 3 clash at Melbourne Avalon Airport Oval.

It was a match of resilience, as the Bulldogs found themselves in a tough position early on, trailing at half-time.

However, through relentless pressure and strategic play, they battled their way back, setting up an exhilarating 11.8 (74) to 11.12 (78) win.

As the final moments ticked down, the Bulldogs were behind by four points, but the players remained composed under pressure. With goals from Dan Orgill early in the fourth and Cooper Hynes in the dying minutes, they clinched a thrilling victory.

Will Lewis was a standout performer, powering through a crucial third-quarter surge with three goals. His precise positioning inside 50 and calmness in front of goal shifted the momentum in the Bulldogs’ favour, becoming one of the defining moments of the match and key to their eventual win.

Jordan Croft and Luca Muratore also stepped up at vital times, contributing key goals. Croft’s poise under pressure and Muratore’s timely goals kept the Bulldogs in contention, demonstrating their impact in clutch moments.

In the ruck, Lachlan Smith dominated with 45 hit-outs, ensuring his midfielders had first use of the ball in key stoppages. His presence was important in controlling crucial passages of play, especially when the match was in the balance.

Jedd Busslinger led the defence with 24 disposals and 10 marks, reading Werribee’s attack well to intercept entries and keep the Tigers at bay. His efforts helped maintain the Bulldogs' defensive integrity under pressure.

Cooper Craig-Peters was another standout, with 18 disposals, 11 tackles, and eight clearances, consistently bringing the pressure and neutralising Werribee’s midfield dominance.

While individual brilliance was on display, the Bulldogs' victory was a testament to their collective effort, with eleven players contributing to the scoreboard; showcasing the depth and versatility within the team.

Looking ahead, the Bulldogs will face the Sandringham Zebras at Mission Whitten Oval on Saturday 20 April at 2:05 pm AEST.

Werribee 3.1 8.4 8.6 11.8 (74)
Footscray 3.6 3.7 8.9 11.12 (78)

Goals: Will Lewis 3, Josh Kellett 2, Anthony Scott, Dan Orgill, Luca Muratore, Cooper Hynes, Chan Hargraves, Jordan Croft.