Sunday’s clash against Sydney will gauge how far the Western Bulldogs have come since their round 10 meeting at the SCG according to versatile tall Ayce Cordy.
The Bulldogs were on the receiving end of a 92 point thumping in miserable conditions when the teams last crossed paths but Cordy is adamant the side will put in a more competitive showing on the weekend.
Watch BulldogsTV's Tom Nickson & Denis Bicer preview Sunday's clash against Sydney on the media player above.
“They taught us a lesson last time we met, so this week in some ways will give us a gauge on how much we have improved since,” Cordy said.
“It’s always good to test yourself against the best, and this weekend will provide that opportunity.
Read everything you need to know about Sunday's clash with Sydney.
“Sydney, have shown all year that they are terrific in the contested area of the game.
“Our focus will be to put in a strong effort for the full four quarters.”
The Swans exposed the Bulldogs with their ability to maintain possession but the Bulldogs won the contested ball count - an area both teams pride themselves on.
View westernbulldogs.com.au's opposition analysis on how the Western Bulldogs can expose Sydney.
Sydney has gone on to win eight of their past nine games to sit top of the ladder with a considerable percentage heading into the final three rounds.
The Bulldogs run has been less successful, only registering one win since that weekend, however have been showing positive signs in recent weeks before fading out late in the game.
Cordy is set to play his first game since round 17 with his physical presence a handy inclusion through the forward line and assisting in the ruck.
But the 22 year old believes the addition of veterans Shaun Higgins, Adam Cooney and Ryan Griffen in the 25 man squad will be telling when the two sides meet at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
“We have some very handy inclusions which will provide plenty of experience in Griffen, Cooney and Higgins,” Cordy said.
With a number of experienced campaigners coming back into the side the Bulldogs will be keen to play out the full four quarters at a high intensity.
View the full Western Bulldogs team announcement for Sunday's clash here.
