Two players who the Bulldogs identified through separate trade periods played monumental roles in the Club winning through to its fourth VFL/AFL Grand Final on Saturday night.

Those instrumental Bulldogs were Josh Schache, the former number two pick who arrived from Brisbane at the end of 2017, and Mitch Hannan, the original Bulldog who returned to VU Whitten Oval via Melbourne late last year.

Schache continued his late season resurgence against the Power, playing a crucial role in negating the influence of Aliir Aliir, while also creating five shots at goal for himself.

“I thought his role was pivotal in the outcome.  He was really important for us,” coach Luke Beveridge said after the game.

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Luke Beveridge | 'So moved by what the players did'

Head Coach Luke Beveridge spoke to the media following the Preliminary Final victory

“He was dangerous. He probably should have had one or two more as far as the goals scored goes.

“His ability to compete in the air and reduce Aliir’s intercept, and their whole defence’s intercept game, was outstanding.”

Hannan was another to share in the spoils of the Bulldogs’ impressive win over the Power, kicking three goals from 14 disposals, and taking five marks.

He is set to line up against his old team in the Grand Final on September 25.

“He got some spoils tonight.  He hit the scoreboard,” Beveridge said.

“He’s such a brave, contested, and highly skilled player, but he’s quick.

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Bevo Post Match | Preliminary Final

Luke Beveridge addresses the group after we won our way into the 2021 Toyota AFL Grand Final.

“We’re pretty happy we’ve got him back. He’s a very important part of our forward line, and it was great to see him play so well.

“He played an important role last time we played Melbourne, and he’ll have another one in two weeks’ time. He’ll be looking forward to that.”

Schache and Hannan, along with a host of other Bulldogs, have found a way to make their mark on the team this season, particularly during the pressure-packed Finals Series games.

“I’m so rapt for all the boys, but there are some lads who whether they’ve been maligned, or they haven’t necessarily cemented themselves at the level over the journey, that are now emerging,” Beveridge said.

“I’m just so happy that they’ve persevered and they’re having a big impact in what we’re trying to achieve.”