On a proud night for defensive coach Rohan Smith, three Western Bulldogs defenders finished in the top five of the Club’s best and fairest count.
Easton Wood took out the Charlie Sutton medal, with captain Bob Murphy second, and fellow veteran Matthew Boyd finishing fifth.
On receiving the Doug Hawkins medal for second place, Murphy joked that all the side’s defenders would be looking forward to arriving back at the Club for pre-season.
“Usually the first day of pre-season is a dreaded day but I can speak on behalf of the other backmen and the ‘guard dogs’, we’re looking forward to day one of pre-season just to maybe remind them of the success of the backs.”
Despite finishing in second place, Murphy said there was no envy of winner Easton Wood, and the captain beamed with pride for his fellow defender and friend.
“It’s all about Easton Wood tonight.
“There was a lot of love in the room tonight, there was a lot of love from Easton, but there was a lot of love in the room back at him.
“I think we all agree he was the best and fairest Bulldogs player this year, and a fine man to boot
Murphy lauded senior coach Luke Beveridge for his role in the Bulldogs turnaround this season, with the coach’ message an easy one to follow according to the skipper.
“He’s a special person Luke. He’s a great coach but he’s a special man and he’s easy to follow because he’s got so much charisma because he believes in himself and he believes in the group.
“We need a break, everyone needs to get away but all of a sudden I feel like the fire’s lit for next year already.”
