Bulldogs Roar Back to Edge Out Blues in Thrilling Comeback
Wow, what a game that was! If you missed it, let me break it down for you. Carlton came out of the gates absolutely firing, looking like a team desperate to notch their first win of the season. The Blues dominated the opening minutes, piling on the first three goals of the match before the Bulldogs could even blink. Brodie Kemp was on fire, kicking five majors, while Charlie Curnow added three of his own. With Jacob Weitering locking down Sam Darcy for the first three quarters, it looked like Carlton was finally going to turn their season around.
But footy is a game of momentum, and the Bulldogs weren’t about to go down without a fight. Slowly but surely, they clawed their way back into the contest. Tom Liberatore was instrumental in the midfield with 30 disposals and 10 tackles, while Sam Davidson had a breakout performance, racking up 31 touches and 10 marks. And then, just when it seemed like the Blues had done enough to hang on, Aaron Naughton stepped up in the dying minutes to steal the show.
It had been a tough night for Naughton. Up until the last quarter, he had barely touched the footy, struggling against Jack Silvagni’s defensive pressure. But with less than five minutes to go and the Bulldogs trailing by a single kick, Naughton delivered a crucial goal that shifted the tide. Moments later, he set up Sam Darcy for another, and just like that, the Bulldogs were in front.
Also Read:- The Life List: A Heartfelt Journey from Page to Screen
- WH Smith Name Disappears from High Streets, Replaced by TGJones
Carlton, who had led for the entire game, suddenly found themselves on the back foot. They had one last push left in them, but the Bulldogs had all the momentum. As the final siren sounded, the Dogs had secured a stunning 12.11 (83) to 11.9 (75) victory, leaving Carlton winless and searching for answers.
The battle between Darcy and Weitering was one for the books. Weitering had been dominant early, but as the game wore on, Darcy found his rhythm. His two late goals proved pivotal, and his ability to step up when it mattered most gave the Bulldogs the edge.
It wasn’t just the forward line that made the difference. The midfield battle was intense, with former Blue Matt Kennedy playing a crucial role for the Bulldogs. Facing his old club for the first time since his controversial off-season move, Kennedy put in a stellar performance with 22 disposals, nine clearances, and two clutch goals. He certainly made his presence felt, helping drive his new team to victory.
Unfortunately for Carlton, the loss wasn’t their only concern. Zac Williams’ return to the side was cut short after he suffered an Achilles injury in the second quarter. It’s a massive blow for the Blues, who have already had their fair share of injury woes this season. Williams had started the game brightly, setting up Curnow’s opening goal, but his night ended in frustration as he was subbed out before halftime.
So where does this leave both teams? For the Bulldogs, this win is a huge confidence booster. They showed resilience, grit, and an ability to finish strong—a quality that will serve them well as the season progresses. On the other hand, Carlton finds itself in a tough spot. Three rounds in, and they’re yet to register a win. Coach Michael Voss acknowledged their lack of composure in key moments, and it’s clear the Blues have some work to do if they want to turn their season around.
One thing’s for sure—this match had it all. A fast start, a gripping comeback, big moments from big players, and a dramatic finish. If this is what the rest of the season has in store, we’re in for one hell of a ride!
Read More:
0 Comments