The Bulldogs controlled another quarter but could only stretch their lead out to 17 points at the main break.
Well on top in the middle, the Dogs have owned territory (32-18 for inside 50s) and put the Pies’ defence under enormous pressure.
They are crying out for a forward to grab the game by the scruff of the neck. Will Lewis has kicked two goals, but also missed chances and given away costly free kicks.
Billy Frampton has done a serviceable job on Aaron Naughton, who is competing honestly but can’t get separation. I’ve liked the game of Arty Jones, who has been creative at ground level but been about half a step short of turning his interventions into goals.
The Pies are living off the brilliance of Nick Daicos, the game’s leading ball-winner with 18 disposals. Whenever he gets the ball, the game moves at high speed and the Pies’ forward line looks its most dangerous. The Dogs have been clearly the better side but if they do not capitalise early in the second half, the Pies can run over them.
