The Western Bulldogs have held off a fast finishing North Melbourne in their Emergency Service Appreciation match on Sunday, defeating the Roos by 15 points at the MCG. It would turn out to be a vital win for the Dogs, as North Melbourne had claimed the last 5 encounters between the clubs
The first term was a scrappy affair, with goals hard to come by until Brad Johnson was able to mark in the pocket and slot through the first major. Adam Simpson was able to respond late in the quarter, giving the Roos hope after it appeared that they would end the term goalless
Ryan Griffen was again a shining light for the Dogs, collecting 30 disposals, along with Brad Johnson who was inspirational kicking 3 goals and Brian Lake who was at his best in defence
The Dogs were able to kick 28 points clear after half time, but the Roos were able to chip the margin back to 11 going into the final quarter with Thomas, Hale and Campbell all kicking truly.
North continued to put the pressure on the Dogs, and had cut the margin back to 2 points in the final quarter but the Bulldogs would not be denied with goals to Lindsay Gilbee and Josh Hill minutes before the final siren.
The Bulldogs will now meet the Tigers on Easter Monday while the Roos will face off against a win less Hawthorn on Sunday.
Western Bulldogs 3.6 4.10 8.13 11.14 (80)
North Melbourne 1.5 3.6 7.8 9.11 (65)
GOALS
Western Bulldogs: Johnson 3, Hill 3, Giansiracusa, Minson, Addison, Griffen, Gilbee
North Melbourne: Campbell 2, Thomas 2, Simpson, Wells, Swallow, Hale, McIntosh
BEST
Western Bulldogs: Johnson, Griffen, Lake, Boyd, Picken, Hill
North Melbourne: Harding, Simpson, McIntosh, Campbell, Thomas, Wells
INJURIES
Western Bulldogs: Callan (back) replaced in selected side by Harbrow
North Melbourne: Nil
Reports: Nil
Umpires: Grun, Meredith, McInerney
Official crowd: 34,466 at the MCG
Match review written by Winta on the forums.
