Third quarter
Key Plays
Dylan Addison opened the scoring for the quarter before West Coast made a run with two quick goals.
After creating a number of opportunities in the Bulldogs forward line, Smith managed to dribble through a goal and reduce the margin to 39 points.
Smith managed a second consecutive goal shortly after, giving the young side some confidence.
West Coast found goals to LeCras, Josh Kennedy and Dean Cox and continued to build on their momentum.
The Eagles quick ball movement and ability to find space on their home ground proved a headache going inside 50 for the Bulldogs’ defenders who were forced to contend with a number of tall options making leads.
Player of the quarter
Young Jack Macrae showed some positive signs in the third term, setting up opportunities for teammates and getting more involved in his third AFL game. Kicking a goal in the first term, Macrae is beginning to find confidence at senior level, exploiting his side step and run, tackling and competing against the much bigger bodies.
Statistical snapshot
- The Bulldogs led in inside 40s with 44 to 40 at the final change
- A number of goals have been the result of solid teamwork with Will Minson boasting two goal assists while Jack Macrae and Christian Howard both have one
- Matthew Boyd, Adam Cooney and Clay Smith lead in disposals with 23 apiece.
Progressive scores
West Coast Eagles 16. 7. (103) leading 8. 3. (51)
Fourth quarter
Key plays
The Bulldogs worked hard to chip away at the margin, with substitute Mitch Wallis beginning the quarter with a goal.
They continued to create opportunities kicking three consecutive behinds but were unable to convert on the scoreboard.
Josh Kennedy found his third major for the day but the Bulldogs replied quickly with Liam Jones kicking his first.
Both sides played one man down for portions of the quarter with Nick Lower copping a poke to the eye, while West Coast were without Luke Shuey.
Kennedy and Matt Priddis extended the margin for the Eagles, with two more goals - while West Coast were unable to convert two subsequent shots on goal.
Player of the quarter
Liam Jones may not have replicated his four goal haul from last week but his sure hands across the ground should be commended. Finishing with nine marks (six contested) he equaled his career best and continues to indicate he is on the verge of a breakout season. He also equalled his career best disposal count with 15 (11 contested), seven inside 50s and a goal.
Statistical snapshot
- The Bulldogs won nine extra clearances than the West Coast Eagles - led by Tom Liberatore with nine, Clay Smith with six and Nick Lower and Will Minson with five.
- While the Dogs led in hitouts until half time, Will Minson was not able to compete with both Dean Cox and substitute Nic Naitanui (WCE57, WB40)
- A number of young Bulldogs were able to kick the ball into their attacking zone with Smith and Jones both finding seven inside 50s, while Liberatore had five. Jason Tutt, Koby Stevens, Nick Lower, Luke Dahlhaus and Daniel Cross all had three.
Final score
West Coast Eagles 21. 11. 137 defeated Western Bulldogs 10. 7. (67)
