Bulldogs dominant in win over Bombers to start Pride Round

The Western Bulldogs secured a dominant 43-point victory over the Essendon Bombers, signaling their strong potential to crack the AFLW top four. Initially trailing after just two minutes, the home team responded with a surge of scoring, kicking five unanswered goals to regain control. Star forward Sarah Hartwig led the charge with a career-high four goals, contributing to the Bulldogs' seventh win of the season.

The 10.5 (65) to 2.10 (22) result marked a warning to the top eight sides on the cusp of finals. Despite a shaky start at Whitten Oval, the Bulldogs' relentless mentality, particularly in the forward line, proved decisive. Midfielder Jess Fitzgerald admitted they lacked the desired "ruthless" approach in the first half. The victory came after Essendon struggled to find the goals, failing to replicate their previous comeback win.

Dogs midfielder Jess Fitzgerald emphasized the team's work rate and pressure in the forward half, stating it's what they pride themselves on. While the win was a significant step forward, Hartwig cautioned that the Bulldogs still face three tough games to come in their season run. The Dogs will now face Carlton, Melbourne, and Geelong in the final three games of the season, all of which are considered premiership contenders.