Marcus Bontempelli ignited the Western Bulldogs' fourth-quarter surge with two decisive goals in the third term, powering his side to a 16-point win over the West Coast Eagles on 18 Jun 2026 at Marvel Stadium. The skipper’s 25 disposals and 12 clearances anchored the midfield, turning momentum when the Eagles threatened to pull off a shock upset.
What happened?
Aaron Naughton kicked five goals to lead the attack, but it was Bontempelli who shifted the game’s balance. After Willem Duursma’s stunning goal from the centre square put West Coast 14 points up, Bontempelli answered almost immediately from similar range. He followed it with another goal moments later, working free from a stoppage to send the home crowd into a roar. The Bulldogs kicked 4.0 to 1.5 in the final term, sealing the 13.8 (86) to 9.16 (70) result.
Why it matters for Marcus Bontempelli?
This wasn’t just another strong game — it was leadership under pressure. Bontempelli’s two goals came at the exact moment West Coast had momentum, silencing their surge and reasserting control. Coach Luke Beveridge called his performance exemplary, highlighting how the captain and vice-captains — Naughton and Ed Richards — dictated the outcome. With the Bulldogs now 10-7 and sitting seventh, every win matters in the tight top-six race.
What comes next?
The Eagles, now 4-13, suffered their fifth straight loss, with coach Andrew McQualter admitting they missed key opportunities. Meanwhile, Bontempelli’s form keeps the Bulldogs alive in the finals race. Richards finished with 28 touches and one goal, while Bailey Dale (29 disposals) and Tom Liberatore (23) added vital midfield depth. West Coast’s Jobe Shanahan kicked two goals, but accuracy cost them. Duursma’s 20 touches showed promise, but the Eagles couldn’t close the gap.
How did the Bulldogs finish strong?
Harley Reid’s early final-quarter snap briefly gave West Coast a three-point lead, but Bontempelli’s earlier work had already shifted the energy. Naughton’s late goals sealed it, but the foundation was laid by the midfield trio of Bontempelli, Richards, and Liberatore. The Dogs’ ability to convert pressure into goals in the last quarter proved the difference. No one did more to create those chances than Bontempelli.