FOR both the Western Bulldogs and Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Giants, who have been hit heavily with COVID, their clash on Friday served as a chance to respond and get their seasons back on track. After missing a fortnight of action, the Bulldogs were looking to find some momentum, whilst for the Giants, they looking to bounce back in front of their home fans after a disappointing performance against North Melbourne in Round 3.  

Whilst the Bulldogs fought hard after a tough first half, the Giants had the answers with a 21-point win at Henson Park, 7.1 (43) to 2.10 (22).

Talking Points

The Giants’ strong start, and youngsters set the game up

From the start of the first quarter, the Giants did the basics well and made the most of their opportunities. Another positive the Giants can take away is their ability to win the ball back and the way their seemed to enjoy playing. In the second quarter with the breeze picking up, the Giants did well to make the most of the beneficial conditions. The Bulldogs can take some positives away, winning the inside 50 category, 33-21, and the efficiency inside 50 rating – won 46 per cent compared to the Giants’ 43 per cent with 15 shots from 33 inside 50’s. With plenty of talent for the Giants and the kids getting called into the team, they certainly made the most of their opportunities when stepping up to the plate.

Barr and Stephenson rise to the occasion

With the likes of Pepa Randall, Chloe Dalton, Rebecca Privitelli and Katie Loynes being out of the side due to COVID health and safety protocols, Nicola Barr and Lou Stephenson were instrumental, with Barr playing a new role in the forward line and Stephenson looking lively right from the start of the game. Barr finished the match with 10 disposals, eight kicks, two handballs, three marks, four tackles, and the first three goals of her career. Meanwhile, Stephenson finished with 11 disposals, seven kicks, fours handballs, two marks and two goals. With plenty of players to come back, Barr and Stephenson suited their makeshift roles in the meantime.

Bulldogs can take positives, but need to convert better

Whilst the Bulldogs will be disappointed with the inaccurate kicking at goal, one positive they can take away is being able to work and get back into the game, showing great fight. Whilst kicking for goal and keeping the intensity will be something to address before their next game, getting back on the field alone will be a positive.

Next Game

The Giants next match will be up against St Kilda (February 5) at Henson Park, whilst for the Bulldogs, they face Fremantle Dockers (February 1) at Victoria University, Whitten Oval.