Match Report

The Western Bulldogs were edged out by the Essendon Bombers in a heart-stopping finish under Friday night lights.

The Western Bulldogs were edged out by the Essendon Bombers in a heart-stopping finish under Friday night lights, going down 5.6 (36) to 5.4 (34) at Mission Whitten Oval in their final outing of 2025.

The Bulldogs controlled the tempo for most of the match, but in a tense final term, the Bombers landed late goals – while keeping the hosts scoreless – to steal the win. 

Maggie Gorham found plenty of the footy, accumulating 27 disposals and seven marks, while Brooke Barwick (18 disposals, six tackles) and Jorja Livingstone (18 disposals, four tackles) were solid.

Naomi Ferres was clinical in front of goal, booting two majors to have a big impact with limited opportunities. 

Trinity Skenderis continued her strong form, gathering nine disposals, six marks and a goal, while Imogen Milford was influential with 11 touches, five marks and two clearances. 

Jaimi Tabb brought intensity around the contest, finishing with 12 disposals, five clearances and three tackles. 

Mali McLeod showed composure on the rebound with 15 disposals and four marks, combining well with Sarah Sansonetti in defence, who tallied 12 touches and six marks of her own. 

The Bulldogs finish their 2025 VFLW campaign with five wins and eight losses. 

Match details

Western Bulldogs: 1.0 3.4 5.4 5.4 (34) 
Essendon Bombers: 1.4 1.4 1.5 5.6 (36) 
Goals: Ferres 2, McDermott, Saulitis, SkenderisÂ