The Footscray Bulldogs have extended their winning streak to six in a row, after defeating second placed Essendon by 94-points at VU Whitten Oval on Saturday afternoon.
Midfielder Rhylee West continued his impressive VFL form, dominating from the engine room and the forward line, collecting 29 touches, laying four tackles and booting four majors.
With the help of Cal Porter (31 disposals, two tackles), Lukas Webb (28 disposals, three tackles) and Lin Jong (22 disposals, six tackles) in the midfield, the ‘Scray were able to effectively dismount the Bombers’ efforts moving the ball through the ground.
Reuben William and Ben Cavarra were dangerous in the forward line, kicking four and three goals respectively. Capitalising on their opportunities inside 50, The Dogs’ enjoyed an impressive eight goal to two second term.
The ‘Scray had only three more inside 50’s (50-47) than the Dons, but were able to convert much more effectively, while also making the most of turnovers from the oppositions end, dominating the rebound 50 count 42-29.
Yet again, the Bulldogs’ defence prevailed, holding the Bombers to five goals throughout the games entirety. Lewis Young (23 disposals) and Fletcher Roberts (22 disposals) were at the forefront of the backline, while Buku Khamis’ (20 disposals, three marks) contribution was equally as strong. Lewis Young’s intercept work proved vital in defence, taking 15 marks overall to shut down the Bombers’ forward line.
A 15-goal win and a massive percentage boost places the Bulldogs second on the ladder with two rounds left.
Footscray will take on North Melbourne at Arden Street next Sunday the 18th of August at 2pm.
MATCH DETAILS:
Footscray: 4.1 12.3 14.5 20.9 (129)
Essendon: 1.2 3.3 4.4 5.5 (35)
GOALS:
Footscray: West 4, William 4, Cavarra 3, Lynch 2, Smith 2, Wallis 2, Gowers, Scott, Sweet.
Essendon: Ham, A. Heppell, Landt, Lazzaro, Smith.
BEST:
Footscray: Porter, West, Webb, Cavarra, Young, Jong, Roberts, Williams.
