First Quarter
Key Plays
The Western Bulldogs were the dominant side in the first term at Metricon Stadium,
Turnovers hurt the Bulldogs early but the solid defensive efforts from the back six prevented Gold Coast from creating any scoring opportunities.
Daniel Giansiracusa opened the scoring for the away side, while Gold Coast’s attempted reply through Gary Ablett Jr resulted in a behind.
The Dogs continued to find the big sticks with Jake Stringer finding his first for the term.
Giansiracusa again found him in possession of the ball inside fifty but spotted Will Minson in a better position in front of goals - although the attempt ultimately ended in a behind.
Gold Coast continued to look dangerous rebounding from defence, but were still unable to produce a major until the dying minutes of the term.
The Dogs’ leading forward target Liam Jones found his way onto the scoreboard soon after, taking a strong mark out in front.
Player of the Quarter
Veteran Adam Cooney was in fine form to start the quarter, finding 13 possessions at 84.6% disposal efficiency. His explosive bursts from the centre and composure under pressure was a vital component in the Dogs’ engine room.
Progressive Scores
Gold Coast 1. 3. (9) trailling Western Bulldogs 3. 3. (21)
Second Quarter
Key Plays
The Bulldogs’ started the quarter showing an increased urgency with Luke Dahlhaus finding space in the away side’s forward line, but the kick drifted slightly wide for a behind.
Gold Coast rebounded quickly but were again only able to produce a point.
Fourth gamer Stringer produced his second goal for the game, running into the goal square.
The pressure continued to build from both sides, with Gold Coast’s efficient ball movement allowing them to create opportunities quickly when given the chance.
Midway through the quarter the margin was reduced to a goal as both teams fought hard to control the tempo.
Stringer, Dahlhaus and Jones’ pressure in the forward half was exciting to watch, while Adam Cooney and Ryan Griffen’s run through the middle continued to play an important role.
Gold Coast found the lead for the first time in the game late in the term, but it was short lived with a Lukas Markovic goal putting the Bulldogs back in front.
Player of the Quarter
Draftee Jack Macrae is on track for a personal best performance, finding 17 possessions in the first half - one more than his previous career best. Looking more composed on the wing, the 18-year-old complimented the run of Adam Cooney and Ryan Griffen.
Progressive Scores
Gold Coast 4. 7. (31) trailing Western Bulldogs 5. 6. (36)
