Game Day Round 1 2016 - Western Bulldogs V Fremantle

[Eastdog]

Thought I'd start it now. Footy is back!

Dogs by 15 points
First Goal: Caleb to get our first
Best On Ground: Macrae

Go Dogs!

[comrade]

Dogs by 8 points.
FG: Stringer
BOG: Hunter

[Twodogs]

Dogs by 34 pounts.
First goal: Stringer
BOG: Daniel.


Footy it's great to have you back.

[bornadog]

Dogs by 17

First Goal, TBoyd

BOG: The Bont

[Bulldog4life]

Dogs by 10

First Goal, Stringer

BOG: JJ

[Rocket Science]

Dockers by 23 points
First Goal: Mitch Wallis
BOG: Caleb Daniel

[Remi Moses]

Dogs by 13 pts
BOG JJ
1st goal Luke D

[LostDoggy]

Dogs by 28pts
First Goal-T Boyd
BOG-Wally

[chef]

Dogs by 37.

First Goal T Boyd

BOG Bonti

[boydogs]

WB by 24
First goal Wallis
BOG Hunter

[1eyedog]

Bulldogs by 26 pts
First goal Stringer
BOG Bont

[bulldogtragic]

Draw
Libba BOG
Tom Boyd FG (5)

[Eastdog]

Draw
Libba BOG
Tom Boyd FG (5)

Tom Boyd 5 goals yes
Draw surely not in the first round :)

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Bulldogs by 34 pts
First goal Boyd
BOG Wallis

[merantau]

Dogs by 18. First goal Tom Boyd. Go Dogs! Go Hard, Back Up, Second Efforts, One percenters - the whole package!!

[Go_Dogs]

Dogs by 26
First goal - Boyd
BOG - Wallis

[kruder]

Anyone else slightly surprised that we are favourites?

Massive game for Tom Boyd. If Roughed can actually stay on the ground, I can really see Tom causing the Fremantle defence all sorts.Both defences are gettable for sure so whoever wins the midfield wins the game for mine.

Dicko is a massive out and seriously concerned about our accuracy for goal, l can see us missing a lot of opperunities hence Fremantle just...

[Eastdog]

Yes and No kruder. It is a game we can win or can lose. Hopefully our kicking at goal tomorrow is accurate. Really need some of our mids to chip in and get some goals.

[kruder]

Yes and No kruder. It is a game we can win or can lose. Hopefully our kicking at goal tomorrow is accurate. Really need some of our mids to chip in and get some goals.

$1.62V$2.32 though? Fremantle look over the odds surely.

[comrade]

$1.62V$2.32 though? Fremantle look over the odds surely.

Probably worth a little hedge. If we win, happy days. If we lose, you're getting good odds.

[jeemak]

Anyone else slightly surprised that we are favourites?

Massive game for Tom Boyd. If Roughed can actually stay on the ground, I can really see Tom causing the Fremantle defence all sorts.Both defences are gettable for sure so whoever wins the midfield wins the game for mine.

Dicko is a massive out and seriously concerned about our accuracy for goal, l can see us missing a lot of opperunities hence Fremantle just...

Based on their finish to 2015 and our perceived difficulty to be beaten at Docklands based on last years form I'm not surprised we're favourites.

If we do get done you'll see perceptions change fairly quickly in each case. Fremantle have three of the next four in WA afterwards so could set themselves up fairly well meaning this game has a fair bit in it from their perspective.

[Mantis]

$1.62V$2.32 though? Fremantle look over the odds surely.

Perhaps, but Freo have some key outs and our form last year was exceptional at ES.

[Eastdog]

Perhaps, but Freo have some key outs and our form last year was exceptional at ES.

Etihad was a fortress pretty last year for us. We play the ground very well.

[chef]

Etihad was a fortress pretty last year for us. We play the ground very well.


It was, but Freo did beat us there last season.

[Eastdog]

It was, but Freo did beat us there last season.

True although we came very close against them last outing there.

[1eyedog]

Etihad was a fortress pretty last year for us. We play the ground very well.

But we've got no ruckman, a mosquito back line and an elite forward all missing...

[Eastdog]

But we've got no ruckman, a mosquito back line and an elite forward all missing...

Will be tough but we have Libba back and if we get on top in the middle will do good.

[ratsmac]

Dogs by 1

First goal Dahl

BOG Hunter

[Mantis]

But we've got no ruckman, a mosquito back line and an elite forward all missing...

Would you feel more comfortable if we had Dawson and Silvagni as our KPD's?

[1eyedog]

Would you feel more comfortable if we had Dawson and Silvagni as our KPD's?

I think Silvagni is about the best they can manage for Stringer. I'm hoping Tom takes advantage of Zac today.
I would have liked Hamling in the side. He's reasonable in the air, quick enough across the ground and can help right the ship if things go a bit awry with their big blokes.

[F'scary]

I'm going WB by 13 points.

This is based on their talls providing no advantage and we make tackles stick.

[GVGjr]

I'm genuinely excited about going to today's game. Lets hope I leave the game with the same mindset :)

The bookmakers have Freo cherry ripe for the picking to it's the Dogs by 8 for me.

Dahlhaus with the first goal and Wallis for the BOG.

I'm really hoping for a good game from Tom Boyd and Jack Macrae today.

By the way, does anyone have a game day routine? I check that the radio and pens are working plus I make sure I pack a couple of snacks.

Not a lot more to say other than Go Dogs.

[Happy Days]

Does it really matter our backline is undersized? They're starting two decidedly non-KPD height guys in the key posts, Tabener sucks and can't catch (note - pencil him in for 5 goals under the Jack Billings rule), plus our backline is one that contains 2 All Australians, as well as being one largely predicated on rarely leaving guys one out and guarding space over players.

I'm way more worried their awesome awesome awesome midfield; you guys seen this guy Fyfe? He's pretty good! And I figure he'll be really fired up to pay tribute to his recently deceased namesake from ATCQ ( :'( ).

I think we win, but if we don't it will be because Mundy/Fyfe/Barlow/Neale get on top, not because Marcus Adams is only 180cms tall.

Dogs by 10.

[SonofScray]

Fever pitch at my house at the moment. Taking our 4 month old baby girl for her first match for AFL points after two preseason hit outs, the intra club and the Pies game. A great day for our family to introduce another member to the Club. Through her passion for the Bulldogs she will play a part in keeping the story of her grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother alive. May many flags wag in her life time!


I'm worried we've gone in too short and light on for ruck options, but have seen enough of this squad to know that they are good enough to get a positive result out of any contest on any day. If we shop early and fight hard through the momentum shifts late in the game we will beat Freo.

[azabob]

Game day routine:

Wake up for a run or walk
Eat breakfast while listening to Ryan Adams on vinyl ( same album)
Walk to the station
Pre game meal / beer or two at the Nixon
Leave 15 mins before the bounce

(This is what I did round one last year so i figured if I'd stick with it for all of 2015). Obviously adjustments are made depending on what time the game is.

Dogs by 13 points
Stringer first goal
Bontempelli BOG

[The Underdog]

I honestly have no idea what to expect out of today's game. Hopefully good games from the debutants and a balanced game.
As usual I'm confused by the selections but have faith that they worked most of last year.

Taking the whole family so I'll be relying on reports from here to tell me what happened.
Dogs by 1
BOG: Mitch Wallis
First Goal: Luke Dahlhaus

[GVGjr]

How many will we get at the game today.? 18,000?

[SonofScray]

How many will we get at the game today.? 18,000?

20k I reckon, round one is a bit more of a draw card although Easter Sunday could hurt.

[Mantis]

I think Silvagni is about the best they can manage for Stringer. I'm hoping Tom takes advantage of Zac today.

If Silvagni goes to Jake then it's almost time to clear the F50 and let him go to work.


I would have liked Hamling in the side. He's reasonable in the air, quick enough across the ground and can help right the ship if things go a bit awry with their big blokes.

Agree.. But it's hard to work out who misses.

[KT31]

Dogs by 7 points
First goal - Boyd jnr
BOG - Bont's

[GVGjr]

The Players Sponsors area now has the Past Players in the room. I just saw Gordon Casey who was a very good footballer

[Greystache]

Dogs by 22
BOG- MaCrae
First goal- T Boyd

[G-Mo77]

20k I reckon, round one is a bit more of a draw card although Easter Sunday could hurt.

I'd be disappointed if that was it. 26K is a pass mark.

[GVGjr]

Quite a few at the membership card collection tent. Lets hope we can get a few members signed up today.

[GVGjr]

If Silvagni goes to Jake then it's almost time to clear the F50 and let him go to work.




Late news, Clancee Pearce replaces Silvagni.

[westbulldog]

Johnson is a huge out for Freo. We do need however to bury the recent record:-

LAST FIVE TIMES
R7, 2015, Fremantle 15.11 (101) d Western Bulldogs 14.4 (88) at Etihad Stadium
R11, 2014, Fremantle 13.11 (89) d Western Bulldogs 6.15 (51) at Etihad Stadium
R2, 2013, Fremantle 16.10 (106) d Western Bulldogs 11.12 (78) at Etihad Stadium
R15, 2012, Fremantle 14.11 (95) d Western Bulldogs 8.9 (57) at Domain Stadium
R24, 2011, Western Bulldogs 15.17 (107) d Fremantle 8.13 (61) at Etihad Stadium

[Mantis]

Late news, Clancee Pearce replaces Silvagni.

Very interesting.. Struggling to work out who goes with Stringer.

[GVGjr]

Very interesting.. Struggling to work out who goes with Stringer.

Would they pick a player who will try and run off him?

[Mantis]

Would they pick a player who will try and run off him?

If that's their theory.. Good luck!

[Happy Days]

Would they pick a player who will try and run off him?

Surely not.

[Go_Dogs]

Surprised the roof is open.

Crowd appears to be building slowly, although a number of people were in line to purchase tickets.

Go Dogs!

[Murphy'sLore]

Wow-ee! Champagne football!

[Greystache]

Well, that went well.

Bevo's plan of bringing the ball to ground and run out of defence has worked a treat so far. Huge quarter from Adams, let's hope he can keep it up.

[1eyedog]

Roughie had a great quarter. Need to maintain the rage.

[GVGjr]

Great start. 7 goals, 7 different goal kickers.

Murphy grubbed another kick and Macrae dropped an easy mark and fluffed a kick or two. Adams hasbeen impressive

[comrade]

Adams close to BOG, kicking has been spot on.

If you didn't lose it when Libba kicked that goal, you don't have a heart. That memory will last a lifetime.

[Mantis]

Great start.. But just imagine how good we would go if our kicking skills were better.

[westdog54]

I'm not at the game. Have we been sluggish in the start of the second?

[Greystache]

If Boyd was Hogan he'd have 6 frees directly in front of goal so far.

[Mantis]

Tom Boyd will have to get sexually assaulted to get a free!

[Greystache]

Back to continually missing easy shots at goal after such a good first quarter. It needs to improve dramatically.

[Ghost Dog]

Wish I could see Ross Lyon's face.
Hope Boyd comes out and kicks a few in the second to give himself confidence.
Welcome to the start of the season dog fans!

[Bulldog4life]

Tom Boyd will have to get sexually assaulted to get a free!

Should never had missed that very easy shot for goal. His ball drop is far far too high. I hope he can rectify this in the future.

[westbulldog]

Stunning first half. No "StKilda" combacks - bury them !

[Mantis]

Can you be unhappy being 50pts up against a team that it seems everyone has pencilled in for top 4?

If you can, that's me.

It's been so good, but could've been so much better.

[1eyedog]

Tom Boyd will have to get sexually assaulted to get a free!

There's a reasonable chance of that happening while Dawson is on him.

[GVGjr]

We are god damn awful with our goal kicking. The game should be over. Whats happened to Toms kicking? All of a sudden he has drops the ball funny.

How good has Biggs been? Actually the mens department has been excellent

[bornadog]

Great start to season. Need to keep his up

[GVGjr]

Good crowd. 21,000?

[KT31]

Happy with the start, yips in the second quarter but to be 50 points up and our pressure has been immense.
Hope we keep the intensity up in the second half and come away with a big win.

[Greystache]

We are god damn awful with our goal kicking. The game should be over. Whats happened to Toms kicking? All of a sudden he has drops the ball funny.

He tries to pull the ball across his body which is sending all his kicks out to the left, then occasionally he overcompensates to the right.

[KT31]

Good crowd. 21,000?

Excellent for a round one clash against Freo

[jazzadogs]

Interchanges are equal at 38 to 39. I think this is going to be a major tactical decision throughout the year so I'm glad to see that it's even at the moment.

Macrae, Libba and Hunter have been my best, the run from JJ/Eagleton and Biggs has been superb and Adams has barely made an error (lost Pav on a few occasions).

Pressure was outstanding in the first, I think we'll come out with more of the same in the first 5-10mim of the third.

It's 4am over here in the UK and I could not be happier with my decision to get up early.

[chef]

Good crowd. 21,000?

Probably up 5k on normal so i guess its not bad.

[soupman]

Can you be unhappy being 50pts up against a team that it seems everyone has pencilled in for top 4?

If you can, that's me.

It's been so good, but could've been so much better.

Me too. Bizarrely slightly dissapointed to only be 50 in front. This should be over already.

[azabob]

Hope Roughead isn't injured again...

[1eyedog]

Biggs really is super impressive

[Greystache]

Pretty poor quarter. Our kicking for goal is practically at crises level. We're almost completely reliant on a snap in general play or scrounging one from 10m out.

[hujsh]

Pretty flat/lacklustre quarter there

[KT31]

Lots of costly misses, game should be out of Freo's hands already.
Hopefully we get a couple on the board early in the last and dash any hope of Freo getting a sniff.

[GVGjr]

This is a frustrating performance. Greatin so many areas but poor on the basics. We are still a poor side from set shots.

Has big Tom got the yips now?

[Mantis]

Pretty poor quarter. Our kicking for goal is practically at crises level. We're almost completely reliant on a snap in general play or scrounging one from 10m out.

It's bloody disgusting... Not many reliable shots in our team.

[KT31]

Great effort so far from first gamer Adams.

[Greystache]

We're doing everything we can to keep Freo in this.

[bulldogtragic]

Do the rules not apply to Tom Boyd? Bevo & Stevenson need to head down to AFL house this week.

[bulldogtragic]

Can we all chip in some cash to buy a free kick?

[1eyedog]

28,000

[bulldogtragic]

28,000

If the excuse to give us shite fixtures is crowd numbers, 28,000 to an interstate club with a small fan base smashes that excuse.

[bulldogtragic]

Premiership To Do List:

Round 1: Smash last year's minor premiers and kick over 100 points and keep them to the lowest ever team score against us. Tick.

[westdog54]

Woof woof woof!

[GVGjr]

Nearly 28k to the game. Take a bow all Bulldog supporters

[bornadog]

Ross Lyon = #hasbeen

[GVGjr]

Ross Lyon = #hasbeen

I think I heard he used far less IC rotations. I guess he crackexd the shits with the players. They didn't really try and win it in the last quarter

[bornadog]

Some of the stats are staggering. Biggs and JJ 35 disposals each, Hunter Murphy Macrae over 30. Libba 25 . Adams and Dunkley good debuts

[bornadog]

I think I heard he used far less IC rotations. I guess he cracked the shits with the players. They didn't really try and win it i the last quarter
His style won't win games. The 2nd and 3rd quarters reminded me of 2009 but they weren't up to it.

they had 6 fewer rotations

[jazzadogs]

I think I heard he used far less IC rotations. I guess he cracked the shits with the players. They didn't really try and win it in the last quarter

He used 82, we used 88.

[bulldogtragic]

158 more disposals. That's gotta be a record, surely.

[bornadog]

How good was Wood's mark

[Remi Moses]

His style won't win games. The 2nd and 3rd quarters reminded me of 2009 but they weren't up to it.

they had 6 fewer rotations

Gotta disagree, they've gone from a toe poke against one of the best sides of the modern era away from a flag .
Bounce of the ball in 2010 against a superior side, and missed chances against hawthorn in 2013.
They haven't got the key position types to win the flag now.

[GVGjr]

He used 82, we used 88.
On the radio they said he was 12 behind us with about 7 mintes to play

[comrade]

Hard to pick the best highlight: Jake's goal, Libba's goal or Wood's mark?

[bulldogtragic]

Hard to pick the best highlight: Jake's goal, Libba's goal or Wood's mark?

Don't pick one? :D

[G-Mo77]

Some of the stats are staggering. Biggs and JJ 35 disposals each, Hunter Murphy Macrae over 30. Libba 25 . Adams and Dunkley good debuts

Freo shut up shop after quarter time so lots of behind the ball possessions there.

[G-Mo77]

Nearly 28k to the game. Take a bow Bulldog supporters

Yeah, rapt with that. I thought 26k would be a pass but that was terrific.

[Go_Dogs]

That was awesome. A very even effort across the board, we scored heavily against a notoriously stingy side and prevented them from impacting the scoreboard, holding them goalless for 1.5 quarters.

All of our inclusions had their moments and Libba showed how big of a difference he will make, along with Koby who we missed late last season.

Woof woof!

[Sedat]

Gotta disagree, they've gone from a toe poke against one of the best sides of the modern era away from a flag .
Bounce of the ball in 2010 against a superior side, and missed chances against hawthorn in 2013.
They haven't got the key position types to win the flag now.
Reckon the new rules this year to keep the ball in continuous motion won't be doing Ross Lyon any favors. The 10m exclusion zone will prevent any chance of congestion, tough HTB interpretation prevents repeat stoppages, and tough deliberate OOB makes it hard to reload wiith nunbers behind the ball.

[Bulldog4life]

I like being on top of the ladder. Think I can get used to it.

[bulldogtragic]

I like being on top of the ladder. Think I can get used to it.

I usually have a fear of heights, especially looking down. But this ain't too bad. :D

[bornadog]

I like being on top of the ladder. Think I can get used to it.

Nice percentage.

[Smads57]

Great game and terrific effort from all 22 players. Gonna be hard for anyone to break into this team!

[F'scary]

I thought they posted 30,000 attending on the scoreboard.

[bornadog]

I thought they posted 30,000 attending on the scoreboard.

nah, 27k plus

[jeemak]

I'm often late and it seems when I am we get off to a flyer as we did again today! It was nice listening to us getting four quick ones on the radio, it would have been nicer to see them though.......

Wonderful day at the footy. The crowd was in great spirits, we played exciting football and good prevailed over evil - I don't think Fremantle wanted to score until we lost concentration and fatigued in parts of the middle two quarters.

The clear highlight of the day for me was Wood's courageous and spectacular mark. It was magnificent. It was great to see the débutantes for the club all contribute, and it was good to have Libba back. If Dale had have kicked the goal at half time it would have made my day.

I thought Macrae looked great at times as did Hunter and Stringer, and given the Ross Lyon set up it was no surprise to see our half backs and runners in JJ, Bob and Ronnie rack up the numbers. Roughy should take something out of the game today, hopefully he can maintain some form.

Finally, I was happy with the 28K who showed up. It's a great Easter Sunday turn out. If the Saints keep this up we should see a belter of a crowd next week. Shame it's not going to be our home game.

[F'scary]

nah, 27k plus

Footywire quotes 27,832. Great turnout against a WA side.

[azabob]

Hard to tell but Suckling seem to settle in ok. His kicking will be hit and miss which worries me.

Other posters thoughts on Suckling?

[GVGjr]

Footywire quotes 27,832. Great turnout against a WA side.

12 months back we would have struggled to get 18K. Sensational effort by our supporters.

You would have to think 32K plus against the Saints next week could be a possibility.

If we can keep up the crowd numbers then there is no reason why a North vs Bulldogs Good Friday game shouldn't be at the forefront of the AFL's fixturing for next season.

We can snatch this opportunity from many of the so called bigger clubs.

[jeemak]

Too early to tell Az.

He fits into the side because he takes risks and that's what we want from our flankers, but with that comes inevitable turnovers. As long as he doesn't take the piss too often with his decision making turning calculated risk taking into unnecessary risk taking I'll be happy with him.

[GVGjr]

Hard to tell but Suckling seem to settle in ok. His kicking will be hit and miss which worries me.

Other posters thoughts on Suckling?

There is a fair gap between his best and some average footy. I suspect he will both delight and disappoint us during the season.

[1eyedog]

Hard to tell but Suckling seem to settle in ok. His kicking will be hit and miss which worries me.

Other posters thoughts on Suckling?

I thought he worked hard to create space on the outer side of the ground and was a constant switch option. He was often ignored though and seemed frustrated at times, I guess he's learning to play with us and we are learning to play with him. What I do like about him is he can sniff opportunity quickly and gets into good dangerous positions quickly. What I don't like is that he doesn't really appear to have a defensive bone in his body which will hurt when he needs to be accountable on a good player.

[ledge]

His kicking is rocket like.

[ReLoad]

Now that I'm home I've had time to let that sink in. It feels like we ambushed them, really totally and utterly ambush them.

They seemed slow, lumbering and reliant on 2 or 3 players, which the MC had plans to cover, which worked amazingly well. For example I expected wallis to play forward, but he along with Libba shut Fyfe and Barlow down.

Their speedsters were totally not effective in any way at all, Walters (who I really rate) stunk it up, Pearce stank and Ballantyne could get near it, and smelt like a Werribee duck.

On the other hand I need to apologise to Roughy who I don't rate as a ruckman, not only did he win the battle, but kicked a good goal, so I got that wrong.

Jacob weitering will win the rising star, because he is from Carlton but Toby McLean is a rising star for sure. Never shirked a contest, reminds me of a very young Rohan smith.

The MC had a clear defined strategy today backed themselves and executed it. Ruthless Bulldogs football.

We're on a journey, I know at times won't work, but from what I saw today we are in for a hell of a ride. Our own brand of football that no other team has. Reminds me of 1997.

[jeemak]

1997 ReLoad?

[ReLoad]

1997 ReLoad?

Yes indeed! Typo!

[Eastdog]

What a great day out that was. Great 1st quarter from us which set up the win. Glad we steadied it and maintained it to the end.

Players who I thought were good:

Stringer
JJ
Macrae
Libba
Daniel
And many more

Enjoyed a beer afterwards in the Whitten Social Club.

[jazzadogs]

Finally, I was happy with the 28K who showed up. It's a great Easter Sunday turn out. If the Saints keep this up we should see a belter of a crowd next week. Shame it's not going to be our home game.

Riewoldt's 300th next week which should command a big crowd on its own. And also make the Saints that little bit more determined...they're our bogey side so I really hope we spoil the party.

[ledge]

Coming back from a heart breaking loss interstate where they gave their all and fell away in the last.
Could also work against them, problem is they beat us last year so it could also make them go harder.
Interesting game coming up.

[Eastdog]

Coming back from a heart breaking loss interstate where they gave their all and fell away in the last.
Could also work against them, problem is they beat us last year so it could also make them go harder.
Interesting game coming up.

Yes we need to be weary of that. Next week against the Saints and 2 weeks after against the Blues are winnable games but Round 3 against the Hawks will be our biggest test. After that we have the Crows, Roos and Lions. Anyway let's take it one week at a time.

[merantau]

Sadly I could not get to the game as I was running at the Stawell Gift meeting. But I was kept in the picture by Woofers so thankfully I was able to share in the joy, if only vicariously. Must have been a great day for all. Decent crowd in and, from the highlights I've seen, a high octane beginning which had the tackling pressure guages going off scale. Looked like a strong showing from the entire team. Easton Wood - the Dasher with Panache (r) What a mark! Courage personified in a gravity- defying, jaw-dropping flight of fancy. Team lifting stuff. And Stringaaaaarrrrr!!!! opened up his bag of tricks and dazzled with a couple of newies featuring some silky sleight-of-hand palm work.
All-in-all it must have been a great day for all - sorry I missed it. But from what I've seen we are playing the sort of footy that gets the pulse racing. Go Dogs!!

[Ghost Dog]

Of interest, I tuned in to watch Duck and Brown give their game predictions fully expecting them to pick Freo. They both picked us. Are we becoming fashionable?

[bornadog]

At one stage I thought Eagleton made a comeback. :D

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cei8aSsVIAEte-x.jpg

[Eastdog]

That's what I thought as well BAD :)

[Twodogs]

Hard to tell but Suckling seem to settle in ok. His kicking will be hit and miss which worries me.

Other posters thoughts on Suckling?

I was a bit annoyed with him when he took that mark in the last quarter and played on and kicked that banana kick at goal from straight in front. But maybe that's a premiership mentality? Other than that he was pretty good. He made a few mistakes but he was trying something at least.


His kicking is rocket like.

A couple of those bullet passes reminded me of the Hawk


Now that I'm home I've had time to let that sink in. It feels like we ambushed them, really totally and utterly ambush them.

They seemed slow, lumbering and reliant on 2 or 3 players, which the MC had plans to cover, which worked amazingly well. For example I expected wallis to play forward, but he along with Libba shut Fyfe and Barlow down.

Their speedsters were totally not effective in any way at all, Walters (who I really rate) stunk it up, Pearce stank and Ballantyne could get near it, and smelt like a Werribee duck.

On the other hand I need to apologise to Roughy who I don't rate as a ruckman, not only did he win the battle, but kicked a good goal, so I got that wrong.

Jacob weitering will win the rising star, because he is from Carlton but Toby McLean is a rising star for sure. Never shirked a contest, reminds me of a very young Rohan smith.

The MC had a clear defined strategy today backed themselves and executed it. Ruthless Bulldogs football.

We're on a journey, I know at times won't work, but from what I saw today we are in for a hell of a ride. Our own brand of football that no other team has. Reminds me of 1997.

We did to them what they did to us at the same ground last year. Got out to an early lead and rhen defended it. Difference is we went within a mistimed smother of running them down while they only got further behind. We out-Freod Freo.


Coming back from a heart breaking loss interstate where they gave their all and fell away in the last.
Could also work against them, problem is they beat us last year so it could also make them go harder.
Interesting game coming up.

We beat stkilda last time around didn't we?

[Dry Rot]

Thought Daniel was terrific.

Was significantly involved in many significant phases of play.

Not overly impressed with T Boyd, though.

My sig is holding!

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

At one stage I thought Eagleton made a comeback. :D

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cei8aSsVIAEte-x.jpg

It was Eagle-esque..
Still an improvement upon the hedgehog that took up residence on his scone over the off season

[azabob]

Of interest, I tuned in to watch Duck and Brown give their game predictions fully expecting them to pick Freo. They both picked us. Are we becoming fashionable?

We were favourite with the bookies.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Biggs was tremendous today. What I love about him is that whilst you can put him down for one howler at least per game, he never drops his head or let's it get in the way of the role the coach has assigned him. It's clear he's been told to be creative and run when he has the ball. This role requires someone with a fair amount of self-belief, because there are times when you're going to flub your lines and you need to be able to brush it off, get back on the horse and back yourself in and take the same amount of risk next time, and the next.
Our backline today exemplify this risk/reward strategy, even Morris at times was running off his opponent and getting into attacking positions forward of centre.

[kruder]

Biggs was tremendous today. What I love about him is that whilst you can put him down for one howler at least per game, he never drops his head or let's it get in the way of the role the coach has assigned him. It's clear he's been told to be creative and run when he has the ball. This role requires someone with a fair amount of self-belief, because there are times when you're going to flub your lines and you need to be able to brush it off, get back on the horse and back yourself in and take the same amount of risk next time, and the next.
Our backline today exemplify this risk/reward strategy, even Morris at times was running off his opponent and getting into attacking positions forward of centre.

Yeah we all discussed Biggs alot leading into season and the consensus was he was just inside the best 22. I must say after his first few games I thought he was a nice VFL player but after the backend of last year and again today he is a lock for mine.

Caleb Daniel isn't far behind him, just so clean.

[soupman]

I was a bit annoyed with him when he took that mark in the last quarter and played on and kicked that banana kick at goal from straight in front. But maybe that's a premiership mentality? Other than that he was pretty good. He made a few mistakes but he was trying something at least.

I think he is the type that is more accurate like that than from a set shot, although it looks terrible and very arrogant if it doesn't come off. Honestly it wouldn't be the worst idea for Dahlhaus to do that every time he has a set shot. He is an atrocious set shot kick but a very accurate snap.

[Scraggers]

Did anyone catch Bevo's comment in the presser after the game ... "We have to be good in the phone box and good in the tardis; and today we were good in both" !!!!

[jeemak]

I think it's Ghost Dog's signature at present.

Such a bizarre but awesome comment from a senior coach.

[Scraggers]

I think it's Ghost Dog's signature at present.

Such a bizarre but awesome comment from a senior coach.

I was thinking Malthouse-esque ... The ground is slow, but the ox is patient.
Bevo's was mid conversation though. Not something he has been sitting on for weeks like Malthouse used to do.

[Hotdog60]

Will Jake have any worries with the video review with the love tap he gave the freo player.

[Bulldog4life]

I was a bit annoyed with him when he took that mark in the last quarter and played on and kicked that banana kick at goal from straight in front. But maybe that's a premiership mentality? Other than that he was pretty good. He made a few mistakes but he was trying something at least.



A couple of those bullet passes reminded me of the Hawk



We did to them what they did to us at the same ground last year. Got out to an early lead and rhen defended it. Difference is we went within a mistimed smother of running them down while they only got further behind. We out-Freod Freo.



We beat stkilda last time around didn't we?

Yes we did.

[jeemak]

I was thinking Malthouse-esque ... The ground is slow, but the ox is patient.
Bevo's was mid conversation though. Not something he has been sitting on for weeks like Malthouse used to do.

I see what you mean with Malthouse:

“Every now and again you come across things and you think I know this player. I’ve watched him now at training and I’ve seen one of the most explosive animals that I’ve ever seen and I mean that – he is totally explosive,” Malthouse said.

Bevo could have stood on the presser desk, turned around, pulled down his pants and started quoting Dr Seuss via his backside and still not have sounded as outlandish as Malthouse did last year when talking up Liam Jones.

He's the King.

[ratsmac]

Will Jake have any worries with the video review with the love tap he gave the freo player.

I was thinking the same thing, gee I hope not though.

[ratsmac]

What a super impressive effort today. The only disappointing part of today was our inaccuracy in front of goal. Other than that we were mouth watering to watch. Every player played well. Loved Adams and Dunkleys first game. It was great to see Libba out there too.

Ross Lyon hit the nail on the head with his comment in his presser when he said we were up for a street fight while they wanted a Sunday stroll.

It's going to be hard not to get ahead of ourselves after beating last year's minor premiers like that but we must keep a lid on it because it's only one game, and it's a long season. In saying that though, I'm going to enjoy this win as much as I can by watching the replay numerous amounts of times. Go Dogs!

[lemmon]

There was a bit made of Dunks kicking post draft, what did we all think? There were a few floaters in the bunch but on the most I thought he was pretty solid by hand and foot. Just looked a very solid all round footballer.

[Eastdog]

What a super impressive effort today. The only disappointing part of today was our inaccuracy in front of goal. Other than that we were mouth watering to watch. Every player played well. Loved Adams and Dunkleys first game. It was great to see Libba out there too.

Ross Lyon hit the nail on the head with his comment in his presser when he said we were up for a street fight while they wanted a Sunday stroll.

It's going to be hard not to get ahead of ourselves after beating last year's minor premiers like that but we must keep a lid on it because it's only one game, and it's a long season. In saying that though, I'm going to enjoy this win as much as I can by watching the replay numerous amounts of times. Go Dogs!

Watched the replay last night on Fox Footy. Had to relieve that again.

[jeemak]

There was a bit made of Dunks kicking post draft, what did we all think? There were a few floaters in the bunch but on the most I thought he was pretty solid by hand and foot. Just looked a very solid all round footballer.

He looked like he belonged to the extent that me and my anal retentiveness didn't notice any stand alone issues that I thought I'd need to talk about.

I just watched Lyon's presser. Do yourself a favour if you haven't. Apart from the obvious things that happened on the ground it is clear he's walked away from the game knowing he was stitched up strategically.

He resorted to "helping" journalists with questions asked about on the day tactics with passive aggressive responses regarding our set up subsequent locking of the ball where we wanted it (inside 50m). Man he's arrogant, but if you look past that you can find things out and I found this one illuminating.

[comrade]

Did anyone catch Bevo's comment in the presser after the game ... "We have to be good in the phone box and good in the tardis; and today we were good in both" !!!!

My first reaction is that he's got a bet going with the boys where he wins if he can throw in the strangest Dr Who reference at the press conference.

[The Pie Man]

Will Jake have any worries with the video review with the love tap he gave the freo player.

Mzungu when he snapped on the left? If that, wouldn't have thought so

[always right]

Mzungu when he snapped on the left? If that, wouldn't have thought so

He's referring to his love tap on Sutcliffe. Probably insufficient force but Jake will need to be more careful.

[Hotdog60]

He's referring to his love tap on Sutcliffe. Probably insufficient force but Jake will need to be more careful.

yes that's the one, like a jumper punch but I don't think he had much jumper.

[Raw Toast]

The first quarter was so impressive that it was a bit distressing when we had moments later that made it seem like we were playing in our first proper game of the season.

What I liked most of all was the depth that we seem to have across the board. Normally going up against a team like Freo, I've felt like we need certain players to step up for us to have a chance, but yesterday it just seemed like if everyone played their role then we'd have a decent chance - we dominated as a team, but it didn't seem to me like any particular player or even small group of players, took the game by the scruff of the neck. In certain instances this season we'll probably need more, but I thought it was a really good sign.

Big test against the Saints I reckon. Hopefully we don't get too distracted by the Hawthorn game the week after. We have a chance to set ourselves up very well, let's hope that we take it!

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cei_bDJXIAAIKkM.jpg

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CehtFrbWsAAFRnD.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CehtGrbWIAAaUfU.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CehtHwDW4AAkZl-.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CehtI46WAAATQXb.jpg

[azabob]

Has anyone seen a mark taken like that? We've all seen a lot of marks taken on someone's shoulders, but they leapt from behind, not front on like Wood.

I also heard that the Australian Olympic Committee put a call into Wood's management saying their is an ticket with his name on it to Rio 2016 for high jump....

[Happy Days]

Has anyone seen a mark taken like that? We've all seen a lot of marks taken on someone's shoulders, but they leapt from behind, not front on like Wood.

I also heard that the Australian Olympic Committee put a call into Wood's management saying their is an ticket with his name on it to Rio 2016 for high jump....

Propelling yourself with your shin bone running in the wrong direction? Never. And he even pulled an 8/10 Moorcroft!

It's a perfect 10.

[westdog54]

12 months back we would have struggled to get 18K. Sensational effort by our supporters.

You would have to think 32K plus against the Saints next week could be a possibility.

If we can keep up the crowd numbers then there is no reason why a North vs Bulldogs Good Friday game shouldn't be at the forefront of the AFL's fixturing for next season.

We can snatch this opportunity from many of the so called bigger clubs.

As a rough guide for comparison, Fremantle's average away crowd last year was 26672. Their historical average away crowd against Collingwood in 16 away games is 32961. The only clubs with a higher away average against Freo are Adelaide and West Coast, for obvious reasons. Our historical average against them at home is 16141.

[bulldogtragic]

The look on the Freo players face is absolutely priceless. It says 'Shit. There's a grown man on my head but I have absolutely no idea where he came from. WTF is going on'.

[Twodogs]

What a super impressive effort today. The only disappointing part of today was our inaccuracy in front of goal. Other than that we were mouth watering to watch. Every player played well. Loved Adams and Dunkleys first game. It was great to see Libba out there too.

Ross Lyon hit the nail on the head with his comment in his presser when he said we were up for a street fight while they wanted a Sunday stroll.

It's going to be hard not to get ahead of ourselves after beating last year's minor premiers like that but we must keep a lid on it because it's only one game, and it's a long season. In saying that though, I'm going to enjoy this win as much as I can by watching the replay numerous amounts of times. Go Dogs!

Just a perfect day. Let's enjoy it for ten minutes and start thinking about the Saints.


There was a bit made of Dunks kicking post draft, what did we all think? There were a few floaters in the bunch but on the most I thought he was pretty solid by hand and foot. Just looked a very solid all round footballer.

Just about the proto type hard nut I think. Suddenly I don't miss Callan Ward's absence.


My first reaction is that he's got a bet going with the boys where he wins if he can throw in the strangest Dr Who reference at the press conference.

I think you may be right. I hadn't thought of a bet.


The first quarter was so impressive that it was a bit distressing when we had moments later that made it seem like we were playing in our first proper game of the season.

What I liked most of all was the depth that we seem to have across the board. Normally going up against a team like Freo, I've felt like we need certain players to step up for us to have a chance, but yesterday it just seemed like if everyone played their role then we'd have a decent chance - we dominated as a team, but it didn't seem to me like any particular player or even small group of players, took the game by the scruff of the neck. In certain instances this season we'll probably need more, but I thought it was a really good sign.

Big test against the Saints I reckon. Hopefully we don't get too distracted by the Hawthorn game the week after. We have a chance to set ourselves up very well, let's hope that we take it!

I know exactly what you mean about not getting comfortable. At halftime my mate said "I'd rather be us than them, but I still feel like we haven't put them away yet." Even though I don't think Freo are capable of reeling in a large score-it's just not their game style-I still didn't feel entirely like the game was safe until halfway through the last quarter.


Has anyone seen a mark taken like that? We've all seen a lot of marks taken on someone's shoulders, but they leapt from behind, not front on like Wood.

I also heard that the Australian Olympic Committee put a call into Wood's management saying their is an ticket with his name on it to Rio 2016 for high jump....

Royce Hart in the 1967 Grand Final. The Geelong fullback kicked in after a point. Hart ran backwards, jumped and planted his boot in Denis Marshall's (?) face as he took the mark.

[Twodogs]

Propelling yourself with your shin bone running in the wrong direction? Never. And he even pulled an 8/10 Moorcroft!

It's a perfect 10.


He didn't get much of a ride from the Freo player either.

[merantau]

Has anyone seen a mark taken like that? We've all seen a lot of marks taken on someone's shoulders, but they leapt from behind, not front on like Wood.

I also heard that the Australian Olympic Committee put a call into Wood's management saying their is an ticket with his name on it to Rio 2016 for high jump....
If levels of difficulty were ascribed to marks ala diving Easton's effort would have obliterated all that went before. An athletic feat that occurs once in a generation. If you saw it live you'll be telling your grandchildren about it.

[Drunken Bum]

I'm probably on my own here, and i'll qualify this by stating definitively that i don't want Stringer suspended nor do i believe that he should be suspended based on similar events at the tribunal in the past.
That being said though i would love to see players start getting suspended for shit like this, i mean really how can someone deliberately punch someone in the face for all and sundry to see and get away with it because they happen to have a handful of jumper as well? It's completely illogical that you get away with that yet you slightly mistime a bump or spoil or whatever and incidentally make contact to their head and you are crucified, in what world does a deliberate punch to the face not being reported make any sense regardless of impact and damage, i dunno, maybe it's just me but i certainly don't get it.

[jeemak]

Wood was courageous, probably the most courage in a marking contest since this:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJGeSRJ5MMQ

[SonofScray]

I'm probably on my own here, and i'll qualify this by stating definitively that i don't want Stringer suspended nor do i believe that he should be suspended based on similar events at the tribunal in the past.
That being said though i would love to see players start getting suspended for shit like this, i mean really how can someone deliberately punch someone in the face for all and sundry to see and get away with it because they happen to have a handful of jumper as well? It's completely illogical that you get away with that yet you slightly mistime a bump or spoil or whatever and incidentally make contact to their head and you are crucified, in what world does a deliberate punch to the face not being reported make any sense regardless of impact and damage, i dunno, maybe it's just me but i certainly don't get it.

Totally agree. The posturing and cheap shots that are in the game annoy me to no end. Especially when it becomes a handbags at ten paces attempt to goad each other into tricking the umpire into paying a free kick. Even at the start of the game, all this elbowing and shoving is bullshit, it isn't tough. Just shit behaviour.

[always right]

Players don't get away with it by doing a "jumper punch" and haven't done for years. They key is level of force. Not saying I agree but that's how they assess these type ofincidents.

[chef]

At one stage I thought Eagleton made a comeback. :D

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cei8aSsVIAEte-x.jpg

Mantis would have had a heart attack.

[westdog54]

Wood was courageous, probably the most courage in a marking contest since this:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJGeSRJ5MMQ

I'll see that and raise you this
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBAOewmjSbc

[The Pie Man]

He's referring to his love tap on Sutcliffe. Probably insufficient force but Jake will need to be more careful.

Haven't seen it, but it wasn't assessed. Good news

[Rocket Science]

He's a very lucky boy our Jake, caught Sutcliffe crisply with a right on the chin, stunned it wasn't assessed.

[boydogs]

Has anyone seen a mark taken like that?

St Kilda v Collingwood, round 8, 1994. Kent Butcher running back with the flight of the ball, with his back to the ball, jumped on Robert Harvey's shoulders and then did a 180 on them to take the mark on his chest

[BornInDroopSt'54]

He's a very lucky boy our Jake, caught Sutcliffe crisply with a right on the chin, stunned it wasn't assessed.

I thought he was gone. as you say well timed punch to the chin. It was before the bounce and Sutcliffe made the mistake of trying to harrass Stringer physically and Jake squatted a fly on Sutcliffe's chin. Watch it Jake, don't get sucked in.
What a well drilled team the Bulldogs presented for the first round. In all contests we had players disciplined to provide an option to receive from the one in the contest or for the teammate with the ball and this was their modus operandi and they were so well drilled in it. They are a team with character, no dickheads and well skilled. The whole team played well but the debutantes Dunkley, Adams and Suckling all played great games and how brilliant were our half backs? Dale Morris you are a legend, I thought you were gone when you broke that leg, like Nathan Brown but that character of yours has you winning most contests. Libba too allayed fears that his injury may curtail his career; he will only get better.
I wish I could teach some of our guys how to goal kick, seriously those misses are all technique problems and very avoidable. Keep your torso balanced and forward at point of impact.

[Remi Moses]

Did anyone hear Bevo talking about the tardis and the phone box ?
First it was the spider web in the season launch, and now he's channeling Dr Who .
Love it, he's a bit quirky

[LostDoggy]

Just watched the full replay of our punishment of Freo and WOW!!
Who could have even dreamt of a result like this against one of the best contested ball teams in the last 5 years!?
The Men of Mayhem just stepped it up a few more cogs from last year as if I even thought that was possdible.
Adams rock solid and Dunks seems to be chiseled from the same mould as Libba.
For two guys playing there first games-Outstanding.

[bornadog]

He's a very lucky boy our Jake, caught Sutcliffe crisply with a right on the chin, stunned it wasn't assessed.

At best a love tap.

[bornadog]

The stats were interesting:

won clearances by 11, tackles by 7, contested ball count by a ridiculous 44.

[Rocket Science]

At best a love tap.

Oh agreed, actually made me chuckle given a few Dockers seemed to think trying it on pre-bounce was a clever way of unsettling our young pups - gee that went well - but still bemused it passed unnoticed by the match review panel given there was clear footage of Jake connecting.

Oh well. Mess with the bull, you get the horns.

[LostDoggy]

I'll see that and raise you this
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBAOewmjSbc

Wood got higher than both. Mark Of The Year so far.

I was thinking last night, watching the replay, of how easily the new pups just slotted right in, but also Suckling. We are creating a team culture, as Sydney did, where players turn up just knowing absolutely what's required to pull the guernsey on.

[Ozza]

Riewoldt's 300th next week which should command a big crowd on its own. And also make the Saints that little bit more determined...they're our bogey side so I really hope we spoil the party.

I've heard that its also a 'Maddy Riewoldt' game this week also - and that the expectation is 40,000 plus.

[aker39]

I've heard that its also a 'Maddy Riewoldt' game this week also - and that the expectation is 40,000 plus.

There is an ad currently on SEN about the game, and not one mention that the game is against the Bulldogs. They mention Riewoldt's 300th and Maddy's game. Why would you advertise an event and not mention who is playing.

[Ghost Dog]

Under McCartney we came out flying and the rest of our year turned to tripe. Jury is out as far as I'm concerned. Must be careful not to get ahead of ourselves.

[F'scary]

There is an ad currently on SEN about the game, and not one mention that the game is against the Bulldogs. They mention Riewoldt's 300th and Maddy's game. Why would you advertise an event and not mention who is playing.

They'll know all too well after the final siren.

[Bulldog4life]

Under McCartney we came out flying and the rest of our year turned to tripe. Jury is out as far as I'm concerned. Must be careful not to get ahead of ourselves.

Don't spoil the fun GD.:)

[Mantis]

Under McCartney we came out flying and the rest of our year turned to tripe. Jury is out as far as I'm concerned. Must be careful not to get ahead of ourselves.

Under who?

Those years have been wiped from my memory.

[bornadog]

Under McCartney we came out flying and the rest of our year turned to tripe. Jury is out as far as I'm concerned. Must be careful not to get ahead of ourselves.

We beat one of the grand finalist in our first game last year.

[Dry Rot]

A quirky review of the round:


Sunday opened with a Bulldog/Freo bum-paddling which was extremely clarifying. Etihad was no country for old men as the Dogs served up Fremantle's bottoms to themselves. 'Is that my bum?' 'Yes, try some.' Freo were moving the ball like it was a bag of cement and they were running through puddles of glue. So one-sided was the competition early on that the Dogs decided to make a contest of it when Biggs and Hunter tried to out-mark Johannisen and Murphy. Biggs, Murphy and Johanissen could start up a cleaning company, so clean were they mopping up in defence. At one point a commentator suggested the Dockers start tackling but it's hard to do when you can't catch them. The Dogs were too fast and are my sneaky tip for a Grand Final win.

https://sports.vice.com/en_au/article/the-spew-welcome-to-the-iron-socks-first-footy-review-of-afl-2016

[Bulldog4life]

Coaches votes:

Western Bulldogs v Fremantle
7 Shane Biggs (WB)
7 Jake Stringer (WB)
5 Jason Johannisen (WB)
5 Tom Liberatore (WB)
3 Luke Dahlhaus (WB)
2 Robert Murphy (WB)
1 Jack Macrae (WB)

[F'scary]

Coaches votes:

Western Bulldogs v Fremantle
7 Shane Biggs (WB)
7 Jake Stringer (WB)
5 Jason Johannisen (WB)
5 Tom Liberatore (WB)
3 Luke Dahlhaus (WB)
2 Robert Murphy (WB)
1 Jack Macrae (WB)

6 of the 7 going to be around for a long time. Dahlhaus recognised for gutsy inside work.

[1eyedog]

A quirky review of the round:



https://sports.vice.com/en_au/article/the-spew-welcome-to-the-iron-socks-first-footy-review-of-afl-2016
Would love to get to a granny for Bob.

[Ghost Dog]

A quirky review of the round:



https://sports.vice.com/en_au/article/the-spew-welcome-to-the-iron-socks-first-footy-review-of-afl-2016

Hilarious!

[Scraggers]

Would love to get to a granny for Bob.

Would love to get to a granny for me !!!!