By Matt Janson
May 13 2003

Only a tick over 12000 fans bothered to turn up to the dome on Sunday to see if the Western Bulldogs could notch up their 2nd win of the season. Frankly, I feel sorry for those 12000 fans, except for the 50 or so Fremantle supporters. It was one of the worst displays of football by a side in recent years. Thankfully coach Peter Rhode offered no excuses for the defeat, meaning that at least he is aware that performances like this one will see the club without a future.

Credit must go to Fremantle for actually turning up to play unlike a dismal opponent. A 7 goal 2nd quarter proved the catalyst for the victory, their first in Melbourne since Round 17, 2001 (Which was only 1 of 2 wins for the season for the Dockers). Their forwards at least were able to convert the opportunities and provide a target.

The home side though could be excused for thinking that they were at a President's barbecue for the way they played. Sure, the best 3 defenders were missing, but whoever though that Nathan Eagleton could replace the injured Matthew Croft is kidding themselves and really would be shown the door if I were in charge at the club.

There were some injury worries to key players just to add insult to injury. The club really feared the worst when Rohan Smith went down with a knee injury in the 2nd quarter. Thankfull for club and player, Smith was cleared of any serious injury and may even play this week. Worse news though for back-up ruckman Daniel Bandy, who is set to miss at least a couple of weeks with an ankle injury. The list is growing faster than Jack's beanstalk, and at the current rate it is hard to see the axeman coming to save the day.

The fact that a crowd of less than 13000 meant that the financial situation of the club would not improve. It seemed though as the day progresseed that those who stayed away were thankful that they did. Any more poor crowds or insipid performances like what happened on Sunday will see the end of the line for the Western Bulldogs.

SCORES:
FREMANTLE 23.17.155
BULLDOGS 10.12.72

BULLDOG GOALS: Bowden, Harris 3, Johnson 2, McMahon, Power
afl.com.au BEST: Johnson, Giansiracusa, McGuinness, Bowden, West