The Western Bulldogs were wasteful but they’re on the board in 2018 after they held off a late Essendon charge to score a 21-point AFL win at Etihad Stadium.

The Bombers trailed by a game-high 33 points in the last quarter, but a Joe Daniher howler stalled a stunning late rally as the Dogs sealed a 14.20 (104) to 12.11 (83) victory on Sunday afternoon.

The big forward had the chance to bring the margin back to 10 points from close range with just over five minutes left, but he inexplicably handballed to Josh Green who was tackled over the line for a rushed behind.

Reports of unrest at the Whitten Oval surfaced after a disastrous 0-2 start to the season, but the Bulldogs were the more cohesive unit.

The Bombers were brave late, but should consider themselves fortunate not to have suffered a larger defeat.

The rampant Dogs were all over John Worsfold’s side in the first quarter, but led by just seven points at the first break, kicking a wayward 3.9 from their multiple scoring opportunities.

Star Bulldogs midfielder Marcus Bontempelli spent plenty of time inside attacking 50 and he kicked two of his three goals in the second term to help his side to a 16-point halftime lead.

In a repeat of the match’s opening quarter, the Dogs started the second half full of run. The difference this time was they converted better and quickly opened up a 32-point lead.

Daniher had a quiet first half for Essendon, but he kept his team in the contest with two late goals.

The Bombers were 21 points in arrears entering the final term, but goals to Jake Stringer, Green and James Stewart revived their hopes.

Daniher should have kicked his side’s fourth unanswered major, but his unfortunate brain fade effectively ended Essendon’s challenge.

The Dogs will next host Sydney at Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon, while the Bombers will take on ladder leaders Port Adelaide at Etihad on Sunday.