The VFLW Tigers have been outplayed by the Western Bulldogs on Saturday afternoon, falling to a 43-point loss at the Swinburne Centre.
The 3.2 (20) to 10.3 (63) defeat broke the Tigers’ winning streak following two triumphant wins over Williamstown and Carlton.
The Bulldogs opened the floodgates from the first bounce and scored a goal per minute for the first three minutes of the game, securing an early 18-point advantage.
The Tigers hit back at the end of the first quarter when the ball was passed through the Bulldogs’ defence.
Sabrina Frederick pounced on the loose ball and slotted the Tigers’ first of the day with an impressive soccer goal off her left boot.
The Tigers dialled the intensity up a notch in the second term, which resulted in a goal drought for both sides.
Recently-signed AFLW Tiger Kodi Jacques proved to be a valuable asset for the Tigers as she relentlessly drove the ball forwards, racking up a team-high six clearances to go with 14 disposals and five tackles.
A score recount at half-time awarded the Bulldogs with an extra point, extending their lead to 18 points at the main break.
The third quarter commenced with a duo of goals for the Bulldogs.
While the ball remained in the Tigers’ forward 50 for the majority of the third quarter, Richmond was unable to capitalise as the Bulldogs hindered the Tigers’ opportunities.
Richmond’s sole goal of the third term went to Jenna Colwell, who was celebrating her 50th VFL game, after she marked a pass from Frederick in front of goal.
The Bulldogs crammed in a final third-quarter goal minutes before the siren, which elevated their lead to 29 points at the last break.
The Tigers had a moment of celebration in the fourth term when Alana Woodward booted her first major of the season.
Woodward was ruthless as she showcased her trademark intensity, laying a team-high seven tackles.
She had the challenging task of manning up against some of the Bulldogs’ best midfielders and performed admirably.
Despite the Tigers’ efforts, the Bulldogs kept the ball on their terms for the remainder of the game, and they surged home with a string of four goals to secure the win.
As a result, the Bulldogs leapfrogged the Tigers on the ladder, where they now sit in third and fourth place respectively.
Monique Conti impressed with a team-high 21 disposals along with three clearances and four inside-50s, as she and Jacques formed a lethal midfield combination.
The VFLW Tigers will face the Southern Saints in the final round of the home and away season next Saturday, August 24 at Trevor Barker Beach Oval, Sandringham at 12.00pm.
