First Quarter
Key plays
There were plenty of goals on offer in the early minutes of the clash, with the two sides unwilling to let the opposition get more than a goal in front.
The Western Bulldogs were quick off the mark with Tom Campbell asserting himself in the forward line to kick the side’s first two majors.
Will Minson outbodied his opponent at a ruck contest straight in front of the big sticks shorty after to produce the Bulldogs third goal of the day and take back the lead.
The Crows showed they could be highly damaging on the run, creating a number of attacking plays rebounding from defence and capitalizing on the increased space.
200-gamer Adam Cooney had a hand in the Dogs next major, with a goal assist to set Luke Dahlhaus up in front of an open goals.
The close battle ensued when Adelaide returned through Tom Lynch, putting them one point in front.
The game continued to be played in tight, with the intensity rising throughout the quarter.
Easton Wood was rewarded a 50m penalty in close range and kicked truly for a goal, spurring the Bulldogs on to build in their strong start.
The Bulldogs produced two further goals through Daniel Giansiracusa and Tory Dickson to finish the term and head into the first break 18 points in front.
Player of the quarter
Toiling away in the trenches, Tom Liberatore was influential in the first term, finding nine possessions, three clearances and two inside 50s. He was dependable in close, with seven contested possessions - three more than anyone else on field.
Statistical snapshot
- The Bulldogs had seven of the final eight scoring shots of the term
- Tom Campbell kicked two goals in the first term for the second time in three weeks, to equal his current personal best. He also had three marks - two inside 50.
- The Dogs had double the number of inside 50s for the term with 16 to the Crows 8
Progressive scores
Western Bulldogs 7. 2. (44) lead Adelaide Crows 4. 2. (26)
Second quarter
Key plays
The Crows were on a mission in the second quarter, looking to atone for the below par start to the game but were unable to convert most of their chances in front of goals.
Adam Cooney found his first major in his milestone game, drilling his shot on goal from long range.
Another two behinds to the Crows prevented them from closing the gap and making it an even contest.
A goal to Patrick Dangerfield saw the Crows’ elite midfielder have his first major influence on the game, finding just six possessions midway into the second term.
Veteran Daniel Cross bobbed up at the other end of the ground however to find his first major of the game in response.
A video review deemed Ryan Griffen’s shot on goal was a behind as the Bulldogs looked to build momentum.
A goal to Nathan Van Berlo brought the game to back within a goal before the siren sounded in a more evenly contested quarter.
Player of the quarter
It was another father-son recruit who put in a strong second quarter showing in Mitch Wallis, finishing with 11 disposals, five clearances, three rebound 50s and two tackles at half time. Playing a number of more defensive roles over the past month has had positive effects on his football and he continues to make strides against the Crows.
Statistical snapshot
- The Bulldogs have amassed 35 more disposals and 18 more marks than the Crows
- Tom Liberatore (eight), Ryan Griffen (six), Mitch Wallis (six) and Mark Austin (six) have won the most contested ball for the Bulldogs
- The Crows lead in contested possessions (WB72, AC64), clearances (19, 21) and inside 50s (26, 27)
Progressive scores
Western Bulldogs 9. 5. (59) lead Adelaide Crows 8. 6. (54)
