Cody Weightman had been biding his time, waiting for his next opportunity to come at AFL level.

He has gradually put together a strong block of form in the VFL, proving he was ready to make the jump when required.

On Saturday night, he was ready.

The 20-year-old set the scene in the first quarter of the Bulldogs’ defining win over Port Adelaide, taking three contested marks and kicking two classy goals.

And he was on the spot again late, with the game on the line, executing an outrageous right foot snap over his head to put the Dogs 14 points up with just a few minutes remaining.

Weightman finished with 12 disposals and five tackles to go with his three goals, and he had six score involvements.

“I just love footy.  It’s so good to be out here,” he told Channel 7 after the match.

“Obviously last year, I didn’t really get the whole crowd experience, so tonight was just unbelievable.  I’m pumped.

“The program that we’ve got at the Dogs is developing us young fellas really well.

“To be able to work on my craft in the twos, and then when I got a chance I felt like I could come out here with confidence.

“It’s just so good to be part of this team and the winning culture we’ve got at the moment.”

Bulldogs’ skipper Marcus Bontempelli gave a glowing endorsement of his young team-mate’s application at the lower level to earn himself a chance to play his fourth AFL game against the Power.

“He was very good tonight.  He’s been working really hard back at Footscray,” he said.

“He’s put together a month of really good football, which is what it takes probably for our team now, is to go and persevere and commit to your craft and your game.

“His pressure and his tackling and finishing were exceptional.  It’s great to see him get some reward.”