The last time the Western Bulldogs defeated Adelaide in South Australia was 10 years ago - and what a memorable afternoon it was.

In a low-scoring affair which turned into a slog-fest after a late downpour, the Bulldogs held their nerve to secure an eight-point victory.

The Dogs headed to Football Park late in the 2010 season coming off two straight losses, including a 19-point defeat to Port Adelaide at the same venue a fortnight prior.

But they started well, making the most of their chances to lead by eight points at quarter time, despite having two less scoring shots.

The Crows kicked the first three goals of the second term to swing the momentum, before the Bulldogs hit back nearing half time, with Daniel Giansiracusa’s six-pointer at the 29-minute mark giving the Dogs back the lead.

By the final change, the margin was just one point in favour of the visitors.

As the rain came, the first goal in the final stanza would be crucial.  And it came via a clever snap from Jarrad Grant, two minutes in.

It was to be the last goal of the game, as the ball became more difficult to handle as the intensity rose.

With only a few minutes left, Adelaide thrust the ball into an open forward line, with a young Easton Wood and Kurt Tippett left to battle it out for possession.

Wood kept his feet, gathered a slippery ball and delivered a pinpoint pass to a team-mate, effectively securing the four points in a classic encounter. 

MATCH DETAILS

Adelaide                             1.5          5.7          7.10        7.11 (53)
Western Bulldogs            3.1          6.7          7.11        8.13 (61) 

GOALS

Adelaide: Porplyzia 2, Douglas, Stevens, Thompson, Tippett, van Berlo.
Western Bulldogs: Jones 2, Eagleton, Giansiracusa, Grant, Griffen, Hill, Johnson. 

LEADING DISPOSALS

Adelaide: Thompson 33, Bock 31, Vince 30, Johncock 28, Schmidt 24, Symes 24.
Western Bulldogs: Giansiracusa 30, Hargrave 27, Eagleton 26, Cross 25, Griffen 22, Boyd 22, Lake 22.