The Western Bulldogs have sprung the shock of the AFL Women's season, hanging on for a one-point win over previously unbeaten Adelaide at Norwood Oval on Sunday.
The Bulldogs led by 15 points at the final change and had to withstand a frenzied final term from the Crows to win their second game of the season, 8.1 (49) to 7.6 (48).
Adelaide superstar Erin Phillips had a chance at glory with one minute remaining, but her set shot from 35m sailed to left and did not make the distance.
What ensued over the final 60 seconds was remarkable, with all 32 players within 30m of Adelaide's goal, but the desperate Dogs prevented any score with repeat stoppage after repeat stoppage.
The Bulldogs built up a 24-point lead in the first half, and despite some shaky moments, deserved their success with their swift ball movement and resolute defence.
Ellie Blackburn gathered 23 disposals and kicking a wonderful first-term goal, but the skipper had plenty of help.
Bonnie Toogood got the Dogs off to the perfect start, kicking a goal inside 60 seconds, assisting another for Nell Morris-Dalton moments later, and when Rochelle Cranston kicked a third inside five minutes, the visitors were away.
Adelaide was best served by its star-studded midfield, with Ebony Marinoff and Anne Hatchard gathering plenty of ball, and Phillips having a big fourth quarter after a quiet start.
ADELAIDE 2.0 3.2 4.4 7.6 (48)
WESTERN BULLDOGS 4.1 6.1 7.1 8.1 (49)
GOALS
Adelaide: Whiteley 2, Woodland 2, Gould, Munyard, Thompson
Western Bulldogs: Toogood 2, Blackburn, Cranston, Gutknecht, Lamb, Moody, Morris-Dalton
BEST
Adelaide: Marinoff, Hatchard, Charlton, S.Allan, Phillips
Western Bulldogs: Blackburn, Lamb, Toogood, Ferres, Lynch, Pritchard
INJURIES
Adelaide: Nil
Western Bulldogs: Smith (knee), Lochland (concussion)
Reports: Nil
