The Western Bulldogs will hunt their first victory of the season at Marvel Stadium against the Sydney Swans on Thursday night.

TEAMS

Western Bulldogs

Sydney Swans

2021 SUMMARY

Western Bulldogs 5^th: 15-7: 132.8%

Sydney 6^th: 15-7: 119.9%

LAST MEETING

Western Bulldogs 8.12 (60) def by Sydney 11.13 (79)

The Swans got the better of the Bulldogs in last season’s Round 17 clash at Marvel Stadium. Tim English was enormous for the hosts with 22 touches, 21 hit-outs and a goal, while Bailey Smith and Caleb Daniel found plenty of the ball. Despite being in the contest for majority of the clash, Sydney finished the stronger to run out 19-point victors.

THE TALKING POINTS

Smith returns to bolster midfield 

The Dogs only faced the prospect of missing exciting midfielder Bailey Smith for one week, with the 21-year-old returning to the line-up this week. Smith was one of the Bulldogs’ best in their last encounter with the Swans amassing 27 touches in the defeat. His inclusion will add energy to the midfield and create flexibility in the forward half. 

Keath v Buddy

It doesn’t get much tougher than playing on Buddy Franklin for a key defender, but it’s an opportunity Alex Keath will embrace. The defender kept Buddy to just the 10 touches and a goal in their last duel and will need another strong performance at Marvel Stadium.   

Forwards ready to fire

Aaron Naughton has started the season on fire but will need support against the intercept marking machines of the Swans. Jamarra Ugle-Hagan did some nice things in his return fixture, while Marcus Bontempelli spent time forward in an effort to create another target. Mitch Hannah took a mark and goal of the year contender, while small forward Cody Weightman and Laith Vandermeer showed intent to defend.