DESPITE the Western Bulldogs missing finals for the second-straight season after its 2016 premiership, their supporters are sticking by coach Luke Beveridge.
Giving their season verdict on the Dogs in an AFL.com.au survey, 83 per cent of fans answered in the affirmative when asked if they were happy with their coach.
Who can blame them either, considering Beveridge is the man who delivered the club's second-ever flag and has dealt with numerous injuries since that emotional Grand Final victory.
That's not to say the fans are satisfied though, as shown by an average season rating of 4.2 out of 10.
The Dogs won eight matches this year in their poorest return since 2014, and finished 13th on the ladder.
There's not much doubt about who was player of the season – 78 per cent of fans selected Jack Macrae ahead of Marcus Bontempelli.
Macrae, 24, missed out on the Virgin Australia All Australian side after missing three games with a hamstring injury, averaging 32.8 disposals in a career-best campaign.
Jack Macrae made the 40-man All Australian shortlist this season. Picture: AFL Photos
Here are the full survey results, plus a selection of Bulldog fans' highlights and lowlights.
What was the moment you'll remember?
The 2004 Daniel Wells-esque Billy Gowers goal in the thrilling win against Geelong.
- Riley Klug, Duncraig WA
Coming from behind to beat North Melbourne in Dale Morris's 250th.
- Alexander Garnier, Frankston Vic
The victory over Geelong which came after Harry Taylor missed after the siren. Best win of 2018.
- Liam Coulthard, Hoppers Crossing Vic
Nearly winning the last game against Richmond. The team showed the Bulldog spirit we have seen in the past.
- Glenyse Lawson, Melton Vic
What was the moment you'd rather forget?
Liberatore doing his knee in the first few minutes of game one after such a promising pre-season. Hope to see him back at his best soon.
- Jordan Stackwood-Smith, North Balwyn Vic
Tom Liberatore leaves the field after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in round one. Picture: AFL Photos
Pointless experimentation with players at the start of the season. Easton Wood playing forward – why?
Christopher Smith, Caroline Springs Vic
The heartbreaking final moments of the match against the Kangas when Ziebell won it at the death.
- Sam Davidson, Brighton Vic
Not showing up after half time against Collingwood. It summed up our season in a nutshell. Too many second-half fade-outs.
- Andrew McGough, Vic
Bulldogs fans' season rating
4.2/10
Read more
AN UNWANTED REPEAT Western Bulldogs season review
THE WASH-UP More season reviews
