The Western Bulldogs have played three of last year's finalists over the first five rounds of the season, emerging with surprise wins over the Swans and Richmond (in round two) and a loss to the 2014 premier Hawthorn at Launceston. The 4-1 win-loss record after five rounds, which also included a win over the previously unbeaten Crows, is the club's best start to a season since 2008, when it posted seven wins and a draw from the opening eight matches. It was the Bulldogs' first win at the SCG since 2008.

The Bulldogs took full advantage of some untidy Swans disposal throughout, starting in the opening term when Marcus Bontempelli kicked a goal after intercepting a Rhyce Shaw kick out from defence. The 19-year-old Bontempelli was again in the right place at the right time late in the third term to mark Dane Rampe's clearing kick from deep inside the 50m arc and kick truly. Elsewhere, the hard-running Bulldogs were often able to pressure their opponents into errors, resulting in a turnover and goal. 

Easton Wood's flying kick in the goalsquare with 25 minutes on the clock in the final term proved the difference in a frantic final term. With the Bulldogs trailing by four points, the 25-year-old was first to a bouncing footy in the goalsquare and leapt high and flung his boot in the direction of the footy to give his team the lead. His celebrations were put on hold pending a video review, but the all clear was soon given. 

Swans champion Adam Goodes had the best possible start to his first senior match since round two, storming inside 50 to kick an on-the-run goal from about 30m. Playing mainly up forward and through the middle, the two-time premiership player was minded by Fletcher Roberts for most of the match and finished with two goals and 12 possessions. Goodes was playing his first game since returning to the reserves a fortnight ago in a bid to gain more match time.

Gary Rohan's goal late in time-on in the third term came after a contentious 50m penalty was awarded against Jordan Roughead. Rohan had taken a mark on the wing and then made contact with what appeared a stationary Bulldogs big man, who was bracing for contact. The umpire decided contact was late and awarded a 50m penalty. Rohan made no mistake with a booming kick from outside the 50m arc.