The Footscray Bulldogs remain undefeated in the 2016 pre-season, defeating Essendon by 53 points at Victoria University Whitten Oval on Saturday afternoon.
The conditions were perfect for footy and allowed the Bulldogs to put on a show on early, kicking 11 goals in the first half to the Bombers’ three.
Coach Ashley Hansen was pleased with his side’s competiveness, which he said allowed the ‘Scray to have an impact on the scoreboard early.
‘We had a really even contribution across the ground, which I think has led to us having a successful day in regards to the result, but also in improving the way we want to play,’ Hansen told westernbulldogs.com.au
Footscray fielded a strong team with 15 AFL listed players, including Lin Jong, who racked up 23 possessions and kicked a goal.
Jed Adcock finished with 21 touches and two goals, Declan Hamilton picked up 21 of his own, and Zaine Cordy close behind on 20.
Things were positive up forward with multiple goal kickers, with Clarke, Honeychurch, Greenwood, Redpath and Adcock all with a pair to their name.
Defender Joel Hamling also had a strong influence down back, finishing with 19 disposals and 7 marks.
Footscray went on to put another 4 goals on the board in the third quarter before trailing off in final term as fatigue settled in.
Hansen was unconcerned.
‘I don’t mind them being fatigued at the end because it means we worked really hard in the first half with our defensive pressure as well as the way we attacked.
“I thought we were pretty ballistic which was pleasing.’
The ‘Scray will be back at Victoria University Whitten Oval next Saturday taking on Werribee at 12pm.
Footscray 4.5. 11.9 15.12 16.12 (108)
Essendon 2.1 3.4 5.5 8.7 (55)
Best: Jong, Honeychurch, Hamilton, Cordy, Prudden, Hamling,
Goals: Clarke 2, Honeychurch 2, Greenwood 2, Redpath 2, Adcock 2, Prudden, Grabowski, Goetz, Hamling, Dale, Jong, Russell
Disposals: Jong 23, Hamilton 21, Cordy, Adcock 20, Hamling 19
Reports: Nil
Injuries: Nil
