Bulldogs Maul Giants in Finals-Shaping Marvel Stadium Rout
What a night it was at Marvel Stadium as the Western Bulldogs delivered a stunning four-quarter demolition job on the GWS Giants, smashing them by a massive 88 points and sending a strong message to the rest of the AFL. This wasn’t just a win – it was an all-out statement that the Dogs are still very much alive in the finals race.
From the very first bounce, the Bulldogs came out snarling. They slammed through six goals to one in the opening quarter alone, setting the tone for what would become a total dismantling of a Giants side that simply had no answers. It was as if the Dogs flipped a switch — the intensity, the pressure, and the slick ball movement were all there, and GWS just couldn’t keep up.
Aaron Naughton and Sam Darcy absolutely feasted up forward, kicking five goals each. That’s ten between the two of them — the kind of partnership that could give opposition defenders sleepless nights. Tim English also chipped in with two early goals and dominated the ruck, while captain Marcus Bontempelli and Tom Liberatore ran the show through the midfield.
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And let’s not forget the moment of resilience from Sam Darcy. Early in the game, he looked in trouble with a sore knee after a tackle, and for a second it looked like he might not continue. But not only did he play on — he starred. After missing large chunks of the season with injury, this performance was a reminder of the talent he brings when fit.
The numbers told the story: 37 scoring shots to 14, 58 inside 50s to 36, and 41 clearances to 24. The Dogs were just cleaner, tougher, and more switched on.
Meanwhile, the Giants looked flat from the get-go. They were missing key players like Toby Greene, Josh Kelly, and Jack Buckley, but with finals on the line and a six-game winning streak behind them, expectations were much higher. GWS coach Adam Kingsley will be scratching his head — especially when, midway through the second quarter, 13 of his players had four or fewer disposals. That’s a stat that just shouldn't happen at this level.
The win bumps the Bulldogs into eighth spot – at least temporarily – and with a strong percentage, they’re right in the mix. Their final three games are all in Melbourne, including tough clashes against Melbourne and Fremantle. So the road ahead isn't easy, but if they bring this level of intensity again, they’ll be a real threat.
As for the Giants, their finals hopes aren’t gone, but this loss will sting — and with three rounds left, there's little room for error. This wasn’t just a loss. It was a wake-up call.
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