Fremantle have held off a spirited Western Bulldogs comeback, securing a thrilling 12-point victory at Marvel Stadium. The Dockers won 17.12 (114) to 15.12 (102) for their seventh consecutive win, their best streak since claiming the minor premiership in 2015.
Dockers withstand final-quarter surge
Leading by 28 points 12 minutes into the final quarter, Fremantle saw their advantage nearly disappear as the Bulldogs slammed through four straight goals. However, a desperate tackle from star ruckman Luke Jackson on Marcus Bontempelli with two minutes remaining created an opportunity for Shai Bolton to snap the match-winning goal.
The Bulldogs had earlier dominated the first quarter, leading by 26 points at the first break. Coach Justin Longmuir delivered a quarter-time spray that sparked a revival, with Fremantle rallying as the Bulldogs' intensity waned.
Hayden Young shines in comeback
Hayden Young, who has been plagued by hamstring injuries and played only his 13th game in two seasons, kicked two stunning goals late in the third quarter to give Fremantle their first lead just before the final break. He then added a goal-of-the-year contender early in the fourth quarter as the Dockers' midfield momentum seemed unstoppable.
Fremantle booted six consecutive goals around three-quarter time, appearing home when Andrew Brayshaw snapped truly to put them 28 points ahead. However, Brayshaw accidentally struck teammate Josh Treacy in the eye during the celebration, causing a blood injury that forced Treacy off the field. Treacy was later pictured with a swollen black eye after the game.
Bontempelli's brilliance not enough
Marcus Bontempelli finished with a game-high 33 disposals and two goals, threatening to steal the win after Brayshaw's goal. The Bulldogs' midfield dominated the first quarter, with Bontempelli, Ed Richards, and returning ruckman Tim English causing havoc. But Luke Jackson, Shai Bolton (30 possessions, nine clearances), and Andrew Brayshaw lifted to engineer Fremantle's resurgence.
The Bulldogs have now lost four consecutive matches after starting the season with four straight wins, including a victory over reigning premiers Brisbane at the Gabba. In positive news, forward Aaron Naughton kicked two first-half goals after a frightening fall on his head in last week's loss to Sydney.
Injury concerns for Bulldogs
Fringe forward Laitham Vandermeer suffered a hamstring strain in his first AFL appearance of the season, adding to the Bulldogs' injury list that already includes seven first-choice players.
Fremantle will fly home to Perth on Saturday morning before preparing for a Thursday night blockbuster against Hawthorn at Optus Stadium.
