In a contest full of momentum swings, it was the Western Bulldogs who ran out nine-point winners over the Gold Coast Suns at Mars Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The Suns had a narrow three-point lead at the final change but the Dogs dominated possession and the inside 50 count and managed to break the Suns’ resistance in the fourth quarter.

The victory takes the Bulldogs’ season record to three wins and four losses as Luke Beveridge’s side strung together two wins on the trot for the first time this year.

The Numbers

Jack Macrae continued his strong start to the year, collecting 40 touches, five marks, 12 clearances, eight tackles and six inside 50s.

In the absence of Captain Easton Wood and vice-captain Marcus Bontempelli, Lachie Hunter stepped up as stand-in captain and chipped in with 34 disposals and seven inside 50s.

Jason Johannisen (18 disposals, five inside 50s) was influential with the first goal of the second term in what became a match-turning period as the Dogs piled on four goals in six minutes.

19-year-old Patrick Lipinski kicked two goals in just his fourth AFL game, and Billy Gowers kicked two in his seventh match.

You Can Quote Me On That

“The boys persisted and some of the younger guys were able to pick themselves up and hang in there,” – Senior Coach, Luke Beveridge.

“A win like today, with Bonti and Woody out, I’m guessing that’s probably the youngest team we’ve fielded in years. There really wasn’t too much in terms of experience. It’s really good for a young side to come out and get those wins and enjoy the winning feeling,” Stand in captain, Lachie Hunter.

Up Next

The Bulldogs will aim for three in a row when they host Brisbane at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night.