The Western Bulldogs secured a commanding 57-point victory over Essendon in their AFLW Pride Round clash held on Friday night, signaling a much-needed boost for their finals aspirations. This defeat marks Essendon’s sixth consecutive loss this season, intensifying pressure on the team.
Strategic Coaching Shift Fuels Bulldogs’ Success
Table of Contents
- 1. Strategic Coaching Shift Fuels Bulldogs’ Success
- 2. Second-Quarter Surge Seals the Deal
- 3. Individual Performances Shine
- 4. Bombers Struggle with Consistency
- 5. Key Game Statistics
- 6. The Rising Importance of Pride Rounds in AFLW
- 7. Frequently Asked Questions About AFLW
- 8. What was the final score of the match between the Western Bulldogs adn Essendon?
- 9. Western Bulldogs Decimate Essendon in Streak-Breaking 57-Point Victory
- 10. Dominant Performance Ends Bombers’ Winning Run
- 11. Key stats and Game Highlights
- 12. Midfield Mastery: Dunkley and Bontempelli Lead the Charge
- 13. Forward Line Firepower: Naughton and Ugle-Hagan Shine
- 14. Essendon’s Struggles: Key Areas of Concern
- 15. looking Ahead: Finals Implications
Bulldogs Coach Tam Hyett made a bold decision prior to the game,benching Captain De Berry. This tactical move proved prosperous, as the team responded wiht vigor and determination, ultimately dominating the field. The Bulldogs’ performance demonstrated the importance of adaptable leadership and team resilience.
Second-Quarter Surge Seals the Deal
the turning point of the match arrived in the second quarter, when the Bulldogs launched a rapid offensive, scoring four goals within a mere seven-minute span. This burst of energy allowed them to wrest control of the game and establish a significant lead, finishing the half ahead by 29 points.The final score stood at 10.7 (67) to 1.4 (10).
Individual Performances Shine
Alice edmonds was a force to be reckoned with in the ruck, racking up 32 hit-outs, 11 disposals, and even contributing a goal. Midfielders Ellie Blackburn and Isabelle Pritchard also delivered exceptional performances, accumulating 21 and 20 disposals respectively, alongside crucial clearances. Sarah Hartwig led the goal-scorers with three, while Emma McDonald added two to the tally.
Mua Laloifi, a former Carlton player, made her highly anticipated debut for the Bulldogs after a 706-day absence due to an ACL tear. Her return adds depth and experience to the team’s defense.
Bombers Struggle with Consistency
Essendon struggled to find its footing throughout the game, exhibiting a lack of structure in their forward line and inconsistent kicking. Despite the efforts of key players like georgia Nanscawen, Maddi Gay, and Maddy Prespakis, the Bombers were unable to match the Bulldogs’ intensity and precision.
Maddy Prespakis sustained an injury, receiving attention for a cut eyebrow after an accidental elbow from Pritchard during the fourth quarter.
Key Game Statistics
| Team | Score | Key Player | Notable Stat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Bulldogs | 10.7 (67) | Alice Edmonds | 32 Hit-outs |
| Essendon | 1.4 (10) | Georgia Nanscawen | 25 Disposals |
The Bulldogs now sit in 10th position on the ladder, trailing the top eight by eight points. Essendon will host Brisbane next Sunday, while the Bulldogs will face Gold Coast at Mackay’s Great barrier Reef arena.
The Rising Importance of Pride Rounds in AFLW
Pride Rounds, like the one featured in this match, have become increasingly significant in the AFLW. These rounds not only celebrate diversity and inclusion but also serve as powerful platforms for raising awareness and challenging discrimination. The AFL’s commitment to inclusivity has seen a rise in participation and support from LGBTQ+ athletes and fans. In 2023, the AFL reported a 15% increase in attendance at pride Round matches, demonstrating growing public interest and acceptance. Source: AFL.com.au
Frequently Asked Questions About AFLW
- what is AFLW? AFLW is the professional women’s Australian rules football league, established in 2017.
- How many teams are in the AFLW? Currently, there are 18 teams competing in the AFLW.
- What are the key differences between AFL and AFLW? While the rules are largely the same,AFLW generally features slightly shorter game lengths and a focus on skill development.
- How can I watch AFLW games? AFLW games are broadcast on various channels, including Seven, Foxtel, and streamed on the AFL Live app.
- What is the impact of strategic coaching in AFLW? Strategic coaching, like the decision to bench a captain, can considerably impact team morale and performance.
What did you think of the Bulldogs’ dominant performance? Do you believe Essendon can turn their season around?
Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your fellow AFLW fans!
What was the final score of the match between the Western Bulldogs adn Essendon?
Western Bulldogs Decimate Essendon in Streak-Breaking 57-Point Victory
Dominant Performance Ends Bombers’ Winning Run
The Western Bulldogs delivered a stunning 57-point victory over Essendon at Marvel Stadium today,October 10,2025,halting the Bombers’ impressive five-game winning streak. The final scoreline read: Western Bulldogs 18.12.120 to Essendon 9.9.63. This marks a significant win for the Bulldogs,solidifying their position in the AFL finals race and providing a much-needed confidence boost. Key to the victory was a relentless midfield pressure and a potent forward line that Essendon struggled to contain.
Key stats and Game Highlights
The Bulldogs’ triumph wasn’t built on one single factor, but a comprehensive team performance. Here’s a breakdown of the crucial statistics:
* Final Score: Western Bulldogs 18.12.120 – Essendon 9.9.63
* Goal Kickers (Bulldogs): Aaron Naughton (5 goals), Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (4 goals), Toby McLean (3 goals)
* Goal Kickers (Essendon): Kyle Langford (3 goals), Jake Stringer (2 goals)
* Disposals: Josh Dunkley (35 disposals), Darcy Parish (32 disposals), Marcus Bontempelli (30 disposals)
* Tackles: Bailey Smith (12 tackles), Jordan Ridley (10 tackles)
* Inside 50s: Western Bulldogs 62 – Essendon 48
* Clearances: Western Bulldogs 55 – Essendon 42
Highlights included a blistering third quarter from Aaron Naughton, who kicked three goals in swift succession, and a dominant display from josh Dunkley in the midfield. The Bulldogs’ defensive pressure also proved crucial, forcing numerous turnovers and limiting Essendon’s scoring opportunities.
Midfield Mastery: Dunkley and Bontempelli Lead the Charge
The Western Bulldogs’ midfield, spearheaded by Josh Dunkley and Marcus Bontempelli, completely outplayed their Essendon counterparts. Dunkley’s 35 disposals were instrumental in controlling the tempo of the game, while Bontempelli’s strength and composure in contested situations provided a vital link between midfield and forward.
* Dunkley’s Impact: His ability to win the hard ball and deliver precise passes created numerous scoring chances for the Bulldogs.
* bontempelli’s leadership: The captain led by example, inspiring his teammates with his relentless work rate and skillful play.
* Supporting Cast: Tom Liberatore and Bailey Smith also contributed strongly,providing valuable support in the midfield rotation.
This midfield dominance allowed the Bulldogs to consistently win clearances and generate forward momentum, ultimately proving too much for Essendon to handle. AFL commentators noted the Bulldogs’ improved contested ball work as a key differentiator.
Forward Line Firepower: Naughton and Ugle-Hagan Shine
The Bulldogs’ forward line was in scintillating form, with Aaron Naughton and jamarra ugle-Hagan combining for nine goals. naughton’s aerial prowess and accurate kicking were on full display, while Ugle-Hagan continued to showcase his potential as a future star of the AFL.
* Naughton’s Dominance: His five goals came from a variety of sources,including strong marks,clever crumbing,and long-range set shots.
* Ugle-Hagan’s Growth: The young forward’s four goals demonstrated his growing confidence and ability to impact the game.
* McLean’s Contribution: Toby McLean added a further three goals, providing valuable support and stretching the Essendon defense.
The Bulldogs’ ability to convert inside 50s into goals was a major factor in their victory, highlighting the effectiveness of their forward line structure and the accuracy of their key forwards.
Essendon’s Struggles: Key Areas of Concern
Essendon’s five-game winning streak came to an abrupt end, exposing some vulnerabilities in their game.While they fought hard,they were ultimately outclassed by a more determined and skillful Bulldogs outfit.
* Midfield Contested Ball: Essendon lost the contested ball count, allowing the bulldogs to gain crucial midfield ascendancy.
* Defensive Pressure: the Bombers’ defence struggled to contain the Bulldogs’ potent forward line, conceding too manny easy goals.
* Turnovers: Frequent turnovers in key areas of the ground cost Essendon valuable scoring opportunities.
* Lack of Spark: key Essendon players, such as Jake Stringer, were relatively quiet, failing to have the same impact they’ve had in recent weeks.
Addressing these issues will be crucial for Essendon as they look to rebound from this disappointing loss and continue their push for a finals berth. The loss will be heavily analyzed by Essendon coaching staff and fans alike.
looking Ahead: Finals Implications
This victory significantly boosts the Western Bulldogs’ chances of playing finals football. They now sit comfortably within the top eight and will be looking to build on this momentum in the remaining rounds of