1. Schache swings back

Josh Schache may have found himself a new role.

The 23-year-old had played just one AFL game – in round seven – this season, before being recalled for the top of the table clash with the Dees.

And it wasn’t in his customary role as a forward – he was thrust into a key defensive post.

Schache was pivotal to the Bulldogs’ triumph. Especially when defensive mainstay Alex Keath was ruled out early through injury.

He collected 17 disposals and six marks in a night to remember on the big stage.

2. Tall targets get it done

Last time these two teams played, the Bulldogs went inside-50 on 52 occasions to generate eight goals.

This time, they went inside-50 on 55 occasions and kicked 13 goals.

A few factors played a part in that.

The Dees’ three key defenders combined for just five intercept marks – compared to nine last time – as the Bulldog forwards fought to bring the ball to ground.

And they made the most of their opportunities through various avenues.

Forward trio Josh Bruce, Aaron Naughton and Mitch Hannan kicked two goals each, with skipper Marcus Bontempelli doing the same through a pair of classy snaps.

3. Destiny in our hands

In the context of the season, Saturday night’s win could be huge.

Knocking off the previously top-of-the-table Dees has propelled the Bulldogs back into top spot with four games to go before finals.

It was a real eight-point game.

A loss would have seen the Bulldogs fall to fourth spot and within a game’s reach of sixth.

But the win now means the Bulldogs sit two games clear inside the top four.

Games against the Adelaide Crows, Essendon, Hawthorn and Port Adelaide to close out the home-and-away season will dictate where the Bulldogs land come September.