Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has praised his side’s efforts after an impressive 47-point win against Fremantle at Marvel Stadium on Sunday.
The victory was set up with an eight-goal opening quarter – a week after conceding six goals to one in an eventual loss to St Kilda – and keeps the Dogs’ finals aspirations alive.
‘Slick’ ball movement was pivotal early according to Beveridge, who also praised the likes of Bailey Dale and Aaron Naughton for their efforts in the forward half.
"Most of the things we did in using each other in transition and creating opportunities out of turnover were as close to what you'd be after as you can get," he said.
"Obviously, Bailey Dale (who kicked four goals) makes a difference converting those set shots, and giving us that opportunity… it was encouraging stuff.
“We’re heading in the right direction – it’s a solid outing for us.
MATCH REPORT | DOGS DOWN DOCKERS
“You can’t be unhappy with that.”
The Dogs sit ninth on the ladder, level on points with eighth-placed Adelaide – albeit with a significant percentage disadvantage.
Beveridge grinned while fielding a question about his side's post-season chances, but was keen to see how his players would respond to the next month where they face a run home against top-eight sides in Brisbane, Essendon, Greater Western Sydney and Adelaide.
"We play Brisbane this week, who we obviously beat in Ballarat last time on a reasonably windy day, where the numbers in the game were very different to what they normally are and I felt our players were quite outstanding," he said.
"Strategically, it was an unbelievable win for us. They've really kicked on since and playing them up there will be a different story – it'll be a totally different game – but beyond that, there is challenge after challenge, isn't there?
"The ball's in our court, and that's the exciting thing, but as usual we won't look any further than going to Brisbane this week."
