The Bulldogs finished their season on a high note, despite a nail-biting three-point loss to the Tigers on Saturday afternoon at the MCG.
Luke Beveridge and his men won’t figure in finals this season, but came closer than any other side to beating the reigning premiers at the MCG.
The Dogs hit the post on three occasions during the final quarter, including Brad Lynch’s match-winning attempt with less than one minute remaining, enabling the Tigers' MCG-winning streak to extend to 21.
Nonetheless, Beveridge was proud of his side’s performance given their inexperience.
“No, (the luck) didn’t fall our way, but we won’t get caught up in that. It was a good outing and we challenged them, they’re obviously a very good side,” Beveridge said.
“We come away pretty disappointed and a little gutted for not getting the result.
“At different stages, particularly in the back half of the year, we haven’t had many resources. The boys who are left in the 22 to grind it out and really focus on trying to improve – both individually and collectively – I’m pretty satisfied with their performances, it’s pretty encouraging for next year.”
“Richmond has established themselves as the benchmark of the competition.
“We always say that when you’re playing against an opponent that’s recognised and respected in the way that the Tigers are now, it is a good opportunity to see how you stack up.
“And we stacked up pretty well today and that’ll give us a spring in our step as we have a break and then turn our minds on how we’re going to prepare for 2019.”
Jack Macrae finished his outstanding year as the Dogs’ best player en route to a game-high 43 disposals and seven tackles, as teammates Lachie Hunter (35 disposals), Josh Dunkley (28 and two goals) and Billy Gowers (three goals) provided unwavering support.
An extensive injury list impacted the Dogs’ ability to match it against the better teams in the competition, but the exposure it has given Beveridge’s younger players will be advantageous moving forward.
“It seems like (the future is bright),” Beveridge said.
“The team that runs out round one next year won’t be the same as this team (today).
“It’s given us a really good look at what our young players might offer in the future. They’ve really been forced into it.
“I couldn’t be prouder of our 18- and 19-year-olds playing against experienced, bigger and stronger opponents for them to fight the good fight and do their bit for the team, they’ve been outstanding.”
The Dogs’ latter half of the season was encouraging, posting three wins from their final four games.
