1. Bulldogs’ bite is still there
Last Friday’s clash against St Kilda was penned by some as an elimination final in July. The stakes were high, with both teams needing to secure a win to help keep their finals hopes alive.
And that the Bulldogs did.
A week after conceding seven opening-quarters goals to Sydney, the Dogs flipped that to add five goals of their own while holding the Saints to just two points at the first break.
The Bulldogs continued to pile on throughout the next two terms, keeping St Kilda to just three goals at three quarter-time. Despite a lapse in the final quarter, it was otherwise an impressive performance that reminded critics the Bulldogs’ bite is still there.
3. Versatility key to victory
The Bulldogs made four changes to the line-up ahead of the clash, but the on-field positional changes were ultimately just as important to get right.
Adam Treloar, a typical midfield bull was deployed across half-back for the second week in a row, collecting 25 possessions, eight marks and four intercepts.
Buku Khamis was recalled and sent from the forward line to defence, impressing with 18 disposals, seven marks and six intercepts, while Mitch Hannan also made the move back, coming away with 17 touches, one goal and seven marks.
With Lachie Hunter, Aaron Naughton, Zaine Cordy and Josh Schache all tracking to exit health and safety protocols and return to availability this weekend, the match committee will no doubt have some decisions to make.
3. The kids are alright
Of the 23 that were named against St Kilda, eight players were aged 22 or under.
We’ve already highlighted Buku Khamis’ efforts, but some other young Dogs were equally as influential on Friday night.
Rhylee West (22) is enjoying a breakout season so far, averaging 12 disposals, four tackles and one goal from his 10 games, while Riley Garcia returned from an injury layoff to register 17 touches, three clearances and four inside 50s in the 28-point win.
Cody Weightman and Lachie McNeil continue to cause opposition headaches up forward with their agility and creativity, while Jamarra Ugle-Hagan contributed three goals from six disposals.
