Bulldogs bite too tough for Tigers in AFL

The Western Bulldogs have continued their AFL revitalisation under new coach Luke Beveridge by downing Richmond at the MCG.

In a low-scoring contest, the Bulldogs kicked clear in the third term to win 12.13 (85) to 9.12 (66) in front of almost 50,000 people.

While the Tigers edged the Bulldogs on key indicators, Beveridge’s side had more intensity and forward intent.

Kicking woes beset Richmond, who won the contested possession count, inside 50s and the free kick tally but not the match.

The Bulldogs have won their first two AFL matches for the first time in six years.

Veterans Bob Murphy and Matthew Boyd led their defence, keeping Richmond to just nine goals all afternoon.

Marcus Bontempelli’s tackling set a standard across the ground, while Jackson Macrae and Mitch Wallis powered the Bulldogs in midfield.

And up front, Tory Dickson’s bag of four goals was supplemented by two-goal hauls from Stewart Crameri and Jake Stringer.

After a tame first half edged by the Bulldogs, the contest came alive.

The first goals of the afternoon to Tiger key forwards Ben Griffiths and Jack Riewoldt kept the Tigers within reach but the Bulldogs responded.

Jake Stringer made up for earlier wastefulness with his second goal, helping the Bulldogs to a 29-point lead at the final break.

Early goals to Chris Newman and Riewoldt proved to be a false dawn for the Tigers, who left their run too late.

Alex Rance produced a strong effort in Richmond’s defence, with a busy Trent Cotchin leading the possession count with 34.

Despite their efforts, this was the Dogs’ day, taking their place on top of the AFL ladder temporarily by becoming the first team to two wins.

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