Several Bulldogs pressed their cases for inclusion in the Bulldogs' AFL preliminary final clash against Greater Western Sydney by performing strongly in Footscray's 119-point win over Collingwood at Port Melbourne on Saturday.
With rover Nathan Hrovat sidelined with a shoulder problem, classy left-footers Lukas Webb (30-odd touches) and Roarke Smith helped set up the landslide victory, which continued a remarkable weekend for the Dogs, who have powered into the VFL Grand Final, to be played on Sunday September 25.
Showcasing their great depth and winning culture, Jed Adcock and Mitch Honeychurch both gathered high-20s for disposals and kicked two goals apiece, while Bailey Dale slotted two early majors.
Fellow midfielder Koby Stevens was workmanlike, ruckmen Tom Campbell and Will Minson outpointed Pies giant Jarrod Witts, and Bailey Williams and Fletcher Roberts were part of a miserly defence.
The surprise packet was the Bulldogs' 23rd player, draft hopeful Ben Long – a nephew of Essendon great Michael Long – who bagged a game-high 6.0, including five in the second half, from 17 disposals.
Originally from the famous Darwin club St Marys, 19-year-old Long hopes to impress at the NAB AFL Draft Combine in October.
Stats
Lukas Webb 30 disposals, eight marks, three goals
Mitch Honeychurch Two goals, 28 disposals, eight marks
Brad Lynch 25 disposals, five marks
Bailey Williams 25 disposals, five marks, two tackles
Jed Adcock 24 disposals, six marks, five tackles
Koby Stevens 23 disposals, four marks, three tackles
Declan Hamilton Two goals, 22 disposals, five marks, two tackles
Tom Campbell 20 disposals, nine marks, two tackles, 17 hit outs
Bailey Dale 17 disposals, two marks, one tackle
Roarke Smith 16 disposals, five marks, two tackles
Will Minson 12 disposals, 17 hitouts, five marks
What’s next
Footscray will play Casey in the VFL Grand Final on Sunday September 25 at Etihad Stadium.
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