Footscray head coach Stewart Edge says his group is ready to open the 2022 VFL season against Sydney on Friday afternoon, even if that means they’ll be seen as the team to beat this year.

The VFL Bulldogs finished the 2021 season as minor premiers and undefeated from 10 games, with Edge also named the VFL Coach of the Year.

Edge said despite not being able to contest for another flag – with the finals series cancelled due to COVID-19 impacts across the country – the ‘Scray is looking forward to this year’s challenge.

“It’s very much a new start this season, but I think what does carry over from last year is that we’ve now got a target on us,” Edge said.

“I don’t think there’d be any team that wouldn’t be keen to perform well against us, wherever we go. Being hunted is what will carry over for us this year.

“It’s a privilege of having a program that’s respected. We’ve been at the right end of the ladder for many years, and having been undefeated is just a little bit extra on top of that.

“The Swans last year were as good as any team – I would think with their AFL list, they will be similar again this year.

“No doubt Friday will be a tough one, but our practice match against Casey definitely helped our preparation and confidence.”

Despite a mixed bag of results in their preseason practice matches, Edge said overall he’s been pleased with the efforts.

“We’ve been really happy with the preseason – we’ve had a lot of new faces, and a lot of young guys who are coming off two COVID-affected seasons which has been really frustrating for them.

“A few of our new guys are pretty raw, but we see something in all of them.

“We’re looking forward to seeing them cut their teeth at this level, when the opportunity presents itself.”

To see Footscray’s finalised list, click here.

For information relating to ticketing for Footscray’s round one clash, click here.