The Western Bulldogs have secured the vital double chance with an outstanding 14-point AFL win over Geelong at Etihad Stadium.

The Bulldogs absorbed the Cats' third-quarter comeback before breaking clear in the final term to win 16.14 (110) to 14.12 (96).

With one game left before the finals, the fourth-placed Bulldogs have at least a one-game break on Carlton, plus plenty of percentage.

The top four is settled, although the Bulldogs could take third place from Collingwood next week.

In a preview of coming September attractions, the Bulldogs and Geelong exchanged the lead four times at the start of the final quarter in a pulsating contest.

Successive goals to Brad Johnson and Adam Cooney then gave the 'Dogs the advantage.

While Geelong will definitely finish second, Friday night's clash underlines growing concerns about their form heading into the finals.

Only bad kicking from the Bulldogs in the first half stopped them putting the game beyond the Cats' reach.

Adding to Geelong's woes, small forward Paul Chapman suffered a leg injury in the first quarter and spent most of the second half on the bench.

Midfielder Matthew Boyd and defender Jarrod Harbrow were superb for the 'Dogs, while Joel Selwood, Joel Corey and Gary Ablett played key roles in their third-term revival.

Cameron Mooney was the leading goalkicker for the game with four.

Geelong were in massive trouble when the Bulldogs kicked the first two goals of the third term to lead by 30 points.

The 'Dogs had been relentless with their pressure and were using the ball much better.

Just when the Cats looked like they might drop out of touch, key forward Tom Hawkins had a shot at goal and kicked a behind.

But he was paid a 50m penalty for an infringement as he took the kick and Hawkins goalled from point-blank range.

Steadily, Geelong worked their way back in the game, with Ablett and Selwood particularly prominent.

The trickle became an avalanche as they kicked six goals to three in the term - doubling their score.

Just before halftime, an outstanding handball out of the pack from Corey led to Mathew Stokes' goal and the Cats were back in front.

After starting the third quarter like they were beaten, Geelong were three points up at the final change.

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