Match Report

The Footscray Bulldogs secured a 26-point victory over the Brisbane Lions at Brighton Homes Arena.

The Footscray Bulldogs have secured a solid 26-point victory over the Brisbane Lions at Brighton Homes Arena in front of a passionate away crowd in Ipswich. 

From the outset, the Bulldogs took control, building an early lead through quick scoring to set themselves up with a 17.12 (114) to 12.16 (88) win. 

Footscray’s midfield-to-forward transitions were smooth and effective, consistently breaking down the Lions’ defence. At the same time, the backline stood firm, repelling multiple attempts inside the goal square. 

Josh Kellett struck a goal within the first 90 seconds, before Anthony Scott, David Cuningham, Buku Khamis and Luca Muratore added their own.

By the 15-minute mark, the Bulldogs had kicked five unanswered goals – ultimately setting up their unattainable buffer.

Khamis maintained his strong form in the second quarter, kicking two goals early, while the Lions began to apply more pressure to test Footscray’s defence. 

The third quarter was much the same, before the Lions arrested momentum late.

But to Footscray’s credit, they held firm and responded with crucial goals in the final term to secure the win. 

Khamis led the charge with four goals, while Muratore added two majors. Jordan Croft also impressed, kicking three goals. VFL debutant Laird Ramshaw also booted his first career goal.

Scott was strong in the midfield with 24 disposals, 13 marks and two clearances, while Taylor Duryea’s 28 disposals were impactful.

Jedd Busslinger stood out with 28 disposals, while Nick Coffield (27 disposals) and Michael Sellwood (22 disposals) contributed. 

Captain Dan Orgill showcased his toughness with seven tackles and six clearances, while Lachlan Smith controlled the ruck with 41 hitouts and five clearances. 

Down back, Ryan Gardner (21 disposals, six marks) and Billy Crofts (17 disposals, 11 marks) were key interceptors, launching attacks from defence, with Craig-Peters providing strong support with 25 disposals. 

The Footscray Bulldogs will look to maintain this energy as they prepare for their upcoming clash against Essendon on Saturday 26 July, with the first bounce scheduled for 1:05pm AEST at Windy Hill. 

Footscray Bulldogs: 8.2 13.5 15.11 17.12 (114)  

Brisbane Lions: 2.0 6.2 8.6 12.16 (88) 

Goals: Khamis 4, Croft 3, Muratore 2, Baker, Cuningham, Hynes, Jaques, Kellett, Kennedy, Lewis, Ramshaw.