Dogs’ livewire and defender praised

CODY Weightman was hugely influential in the Western Bulldogs’ first win of season 2022.

The Bulldogs livewire kicked a game-high three goals in Thursday’s night’s much-needed 11-point victory over Sydney at Marvel Stadium.

The Dogs had been crying out for some support for spearhead Aaron Naughton and Weightman was able to step up at crucial times to help his side over the line.

“They found an answer forward of centre, this is what we’d been waiting for,” David King told SEN Breakfast.

“Naughton had had no help, it had been Naughton or nought.

“Weightman found a way to contribute, flying for marks, that was the Weightman we saw in 2021.”

Kane Cornes added, “When he had his opportunities, he went back and finished, which they couldn’t do last week.”

King also singled out praise for Dogs defender Ryan Gardner, saying he’s never seen the 24-year-old play a better game at AFL level.

“We got a great text just a moment ago, it doesn’t have a name attached which is unfortunate, ‘Ryan Gardner played the game of his life’,” King said.

“I agree with that, that’s as good as I’ve seen Ryan Gardner go last night. He looked solid.”

Cornes was also impressed with Gardner, “He did the Phil Davis method of playing on [Lance] Franklin where you let him get his ball up the ground.

“A couple of times that hurts you because Buddy’s such a good kick but as soon as he reset himself inside 50, Gardner was really strong physically.”

The Dogs next play Richmond at the MCG on Saturday night.

– BY ALEX ZAIA/ SEN