While the Western Bulldogs flew into Tullamarine last night having gone down to the GWS Giants by 25-points, defender Dale Morris says that the continued injection of fresh faces into the Dogs’ squad is a major positive for the Club as it prepares to face Collingwood next Sunday at the MCG.
The Dogs sit in fifth place on the AFL ladder with a 6-3 record, having played all four of the Club’s selections from the 2015 NAB AFL Draft, 18-year-old Kieran Collins the latest pup to pull on the jumper for the first time.
“Experience is going to be the key for ‘Dad’, he’s going to be better off for it," Morris told westernbulldogs.com.au in the rooms post-match.
“At times he was out one-on-one, which isn’t ideal but then he was able to find a way to get back into the game, which is good.
“All of our draftees from last year have had a game this year, which is great for the future of the Club.
“So, Kieran, along with Bailey Williams down there too.
“ It’s great to see the young guys come into the team and help the team move forward.”
It was the Giants ability to put on a run of goals that was the difference between the two sides on the day according to Morris, GWS with 3.2 to show for their first five forward 50 entries of the game - the Dogs’ a solitary behind.
“It was a tough game, they’re a quality side," Morris said.
“We know how talented they are across the field and we had to be on our game.
“Unfortunately, we gave up a chunk of quick goals at the time and that ended up our undoing.”
While the Dogs were able to get within 17-points at half time, the Giants kept the Dogs at arm’s length all day despite a determined push from the visiting side.
“We clawed our way back which is a positive," he said.
“It shows the character of the boys to dig their heels in, put the effort in around the ball, and to try and wrestle that momentum back.’