The Western Bulldogs kicked off their 2025 AFL campaign with a hard-fought 16-point victory over North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium. Despite a strong challenge from the Kangaroos, the Bulldogs held their nerve, delivering a well-rounded performance to start their season on a high.

Final Score:
Western Bulldogs 17.11 (113) def. North Melbourne 14.13 (97)

Bulldogs Set the Early Pace

The Bulldogs came out firing, kicking five of the first six goals to establish an early lead. Even without captain Marcus Bontempelli and key midfielder Adam Treloar, the Dogs’ midfield brigade stepped up, with Tom Liberatore leading from the front.

Bailey Dale (29 disposals, two goals) and Ed Richards (30 disposals, one goal) were instrumental in controlling the tempo, while Aaron Naughton and Laitham Vandermeer combined for six goals up forward.

Quarter-time: Western Bulldogs 6.3 (39) to North Melbourne 2.2 (14)
Half-time: Western Bulldogs 10.6 (66) to North Melbourne 5.6 (36)

North Melbourne’s Fightback

North Melbourne refused to back down, launching a spirited fightback in the second half. Nick Larkey was dominant up forward, finishing with five goals, while Paul Curtis chipped in with three. Jy Simpkin (30 disposals) and Tom Powell (27 disposals) led the way in the midfield, helping the Kangaroos narrow the gap.

Three-quarter time: Western Bulldogs 13.9 (87) to North Melbourne 11.10 (76)

By the final break, North Melbourne had cut the deficit to just seven points, setting up a tense finish.

Bulldogs Hold Firm Despite Injury Blow

The final quarter saw the Bulldogs regain control, adding four crucial goals to secure the win. Matthew Kennedy, playing his first game for the club, was a standout with 23 disposals, while Jamarra Ugle-Hagan and Cody Weightman added vital late goals.

A concerning moment came late in the game when Bulldogs defender Luke Cleary was knocked out cold following a heavy collision. Play was halted as medical staff attended to him, and he was stretchered off the ground and taken to the hospital as a precaution.

Full-time: Western Bulldogs 17.11 (113) def. North Melbourne 14.13 (97)

Coaches’ Reactions

Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge praised his team’s resilience, particularly in the absence of key players, while North Melbourne’s Alastair Clarkson was encouraged by his side’s fight but lamented missed opportunities.

Both teams showed plenty of promise, and while the Bulldogs will be pleased with their opening win, the Kangaroos will take positives from their comeback and look to build momentum in the coming weeks.