Third quarter
Key plays
The Western Bulldogs continued to push Hawthorn a the quarter progressed, holding their own against the top of the table leaders.
Daniel Giansiracusa was the only goal scorer for much of the term, with both sides kicking multiple behinds.
The quarter saw a number of stoppages as both sides attack the contest and refused to give the opposition space.
Acting captain Ryan Griffen showed composure under pressure when rewarded a free kick in the Bulldogs attacking zone, again bringing the game to within two goals.
Brendan Whitecross kicked the first goal for Hawthorn in the quarter, with less than four minutes left on the clock.
Late chances to Hawthorn extended their buffer heading into the break and while Jarrad Grant had the opportunity to reduce the margin, his kick again drifted wide.
Player of the quarter
Ryan Griffen worked his way into the game to be much more influential in the third term. Finding 25 touches, flour clearances and a goal, the in form midfielder led by example and was a pivotal player in the Bulldogs midfield.
Progressive scores
Hawthorn 7. 12. (54) leading Western Bulldogs 5. 9. (39)
Fourth quarter
Key plays
The experience and composure of Hawthorn began to shine through in the fourth quarter, as they looked the more dangerous of the two sides.
Four early goals see them extend their lead to 41 points before Dahlhaus gets his second goal of the game.
The next Bulldogs attack was set up by Griffen who has worked tirelessly all day, delivering the ball to the advantage of Jarrad Grant who converts his first set shot of the day.
The loss of Brett Goodes early in the quarter reduced the Bulldogs rotations but they continued to battle and attempt to create chances.
Hawthorn were quick to pounce on the Bulldogs mistakes and their polish and class allowed them to better capitalise on their opportunities and convert.
Griffen again had a hand in setting up another scoring shot from the centre clearance, with Daniel Giansiracusa producing his second.
Liam Jones got reward for effort late in the fourth term, adding to the Bulldogs goal tally after taking a number of strong marks earlier in the game.
After a number of repeat efforts in the forward line the Bulldogs convert their third consecutive goal through Griffen, who has been in scintillating form in the second half.
Dickson continues to the Bulldogs run, with a minute on the clock, reducing the margin to 20 points.
Jarrad Grant takes one more shot on goal before the siren but again is unsuccessful, with the final margin standing at 19 points.
The Bulldogs late surge, driven by Griffen, demonstrated what the side is capable of when they take the game on but it wasn’t enough to knock off the top four fancies Hawthorn.
Player of the quarter
Never failing to stand up deliver, Daniel Giansiracusa was an experienced hand in the Bulldogs forward line again this week, kicking two goals and leading the Club’s inside 50 count with six. His 28 disposals, eight marks (three inside the forward line) and three tackles were important when the Bulldogs gained control of the momentum late in the game.
Final Score
Hawthorn 13. 17. (95) defeat Western Bulldogs 11. 10. (76)
