Bulldogs boost finals chances as forwards fire in belting of Bombers

The Bulldogs have run riot in an emphatic win over the Bombers

By Phoebe McWilliams at Marvel Stadium

Sam Darcy and Aaron Naughton celebrate a goal during the Western Bulldogs’ clash against Essendon in round 20, 2025. Picture: AFL Photos

THE WESTERN Bulldogs have boosted their finals chances with a 93-point thrashing of Essendon at Marvel Stadium on Friday night.

The Bulldogs made a fast start and never looked back on their way to an emphatic 22.11 (143) to 7.8 (50) victory.

BOMBERS v BULLDOGS Full match coverage and stats

Aaron Naughton (seven goals) and Sam Darcy (six) took advantage against the injury-hit Bombers with big bags, while Marcus Bontempelli (35 disposals and two goals) starred.

The Bulldogs improved to 11-8 to boost their finals chances, while the Bombers’ struggles continued.

Essendon captain Zach Merrett (30 disposals) worked hard for his side.

More to come

ESSENDON                           2.2      2.5       4.6        7.8 (50)  
WESTERN BULLDOGS          6.5     10.5     17.7     22.11 (143)  

GOALS
Essendon: Wright 2, McMahon 2, Perkins, Kako, Caddy
Western Bulldogs: Naughton 7, Darcy 6, West 3, Richards 2, Bontempelli 2, Sanders, Poulter