Dogs’ coach hails spearhead

WESTERN Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has lavished praise on Aaron Naughton’s “extraordinary” performance in Sunday’s win over Fremantle despite his wayward kicking for goal.

The Bulldogs spearhead took 13 marks, including a spectacular grab in the final quarter, but couldn’t finish off his good work finishing with one goal and five behinds.

Naughton hauled in a game-high five contested marks and had a hand in 12 score involvements as the Dogs ran out 28-point winners at Optus Stadium.

“He was extraordinary tonight (Sunday),” Beveridge told reporters post-game.

“We think he’s a really good set shot for goal. It’s a shame. They were all gettable for Aaron tonight.

“He’ll be disappointed in the fact that he didn’t complete some of his work, but he was extraordinary.”

Beveridge also provided an update on injured ruckman Stef Martin who was subbed out at half-time with a shoulder injury.

“The good thing is we don’t play this weekend but hopefully he might be a sneaky chance for Geelong,” the Dogs coach said.

“We’ll get a scan and understand the extent.”

The second-placed Bulldogs have the bye this week before a taking on the Cats in a Friday night blockbuster on June 18.

– BY ALEX ZAIA/ SEN