BOX HILL Hawks’ finals hopes have taken another hit, after Footscray Bulldogs fought back to snatch a five-point victory at the death at Whitten Oval on Saturday.

The Hawks led by 31 points at the final change, but the Bulldogs kicked 5.7 to the Hawks’ one behind for the term to run out 10.13 (73) to 10.8 (68) winners.

The loss leaves the Hawks two games behind eighth-placed Essendon with just four matches remaining in the season.

Kicking with a strong breeze in the first term, the Hawks shot out to a five-goal advantage.

But the scoring end was used to advantage by both teams.

The Bulldogs were back within 10 points at half-time, and while they were held goal-less in the third quarter, they flew home with a wet sail.

Alex Woodward was again among the Hawks’ best in his second VFL match for the season, winning a team-high 32 disposals and 10 clearances.

Kieran Lovell (31 disposals) and Kade Stewart (19 disposals) were also among the Hawks’ leading ball-winners, while forwards Jack Fitzpatrick and Zac Webster – plus defender Kurt Heatherley – were named among the best.

Fitzpatrick finished with two goals and nine marks in his first game back from concussion, which had sidelined him since mid-May.

Billy Hartung played little part in the match, coming off in the first quarter with what appeared to be an ankle injury.

BOX HILL HAWKS     5.3     7.3     10.7     10.8 (68)
FOOTSCRAY BULLDOGS     0.1     5.5     5.6     10.13 (73)

Box Hill goals: J. Fitzpatrick 2, M. Lock 2, S. Switkowski 2, A. Woodward, P. Lawlor, J. Walker, D. Mirra
Box Hill best: S. Switkowski, A. Woodward, K. Heatherley, D. Mirra, J. Fitzpatrick, Z. Webster