The Western Bulldogs will open the 2022 season with a grand final re-match against Melbourne at the MCG.
TEAMS
2021 SUMMARY
Western Bulldogs 5th: 15-7: 132.8%
Melbourne 1st: 17-4: 130.8%
LAST MEETING
Western Bulldogs 10.6 (66) def by. Melbourne 21.14 (140)
It was a grand final with a difference in 2021, with the AFL decider being played in Perth at Optus Stadium. Making the last dance from fifth position, the Bulldogs went in with plenty of momentum and led by 18-points deep into the third term before being overrun by the Dees. Skipper Marcus Bontempelli was inspirational with three goals and 25 touches, while Caleb Daniel (37), Jack Macrae (26) and Adam Treloar (27) all racked up the disposals. The Dees eventually ran out 74-point winners to be crowned premiers.
THE TALKING POINTS
Midfield battle
Two of the most powerful midfields in the competition will go head-to-head under the bright lights of the MCG on Wednesday night. Marcus Bontempelli, Jack Macrae, Bailey Smith and Adam Treloar will spearhead the midfield charge for the Dogs. Melbourne boast a powerful midfield themselves with the battle in the middle set to go a long way to deciding the match. Expect plenty of heat early from both sides.
Aaron Naughton influence
Naughton has had another terrific off-season and will be the focal point for the Bulldogs up forward. The 22-year-old was catapulted into the leadership group this year and with Josh Bruce going down with an ACL, goals will be at a premium for the tall forward. The youngster will be supported by the likes of Mitch Hannan, Cody Weightman and Laith Vandermeer. The Dogs also have the luxury of midfielder able to hit the scoreboard.
Crowd return to MCG
It’s been a difficult two years for the people of Melbourne and around Australia. Wednesday night will signal a changing of the guard with fans welcome back to the MCG for the first time since July. A grand final re-match on the first night of the season with 70,000 at the G’, what more could you want?
