Port Melbourne VFLW went down to the Western Bulldogs by 23 points at ETU Stadium on Friday night, falling 2.3 (15) to 7.6 (48).

The Bulldogs had not beaten the Borough in four previous attempts but with the superstar Ellie Blackburn putting on another masterclass, they took control in the first half and overcame a third-quarter lull to win easily.

Leading by 12 points at the last break despite a scoreless third term, the Bulldogs charged home with 3.3 to nothing to record a fifth win in eight games after just three victories last year and none in 2022.

Blackburn again showed her class with 16 disposals, seven clearances, six tackles, two goals, getting silver service from Keeley Hardingham (13 disposals, 42 hitouts, one goal) who comfortably had the better of Borough premiership player Beth Wilson (seven disposals and 23 hitouts).

Dom Carbone (19 disposals, six clearances, seven tackles), Jaimi Tabb (18 disposals, eight tackles, one goal) and Jasmyn Smith (15 disposals, eight tackles) were outstanding alongside Blackburn, while Caitlin Pickett’s defensive efforts were magnificent, Dom Carruthers laid 13 tackles and Analea McKee booted two goals.

Lisa Hardeman medallist Lauren Caruso (15 disposals, seven tackles) was Port Melbourne’s best, while Lily Hart (13 disposals, six clearances, six tackles), Ava Seton (10 disposals, 11 tackles, one goal) and Jordan Mifsud (10 disposals, eight tackles) also worked hard defensively despite being stymied in attack.

PORT MELBOURNE                  1.1        1.1        2.3        2.3 (15)
WESTERN BULLDOGS              2.0        4.3        4.3        7.6 (48)