Key defender Fletcher Roberts will line up in the senior team for the first time this season and is the sole addition to the team to play against the Kangaroos tomorrow evening, replacing injured defender Matt Suckling.

The 22-year-old has built up some impressive form in the VFL, playing critical roles in defence and being named in the best players twice over the past three weeks.

Assistant Coach Steven King said Roberts’ defensive prowess will prove important, and in particular the key defender will be used to combat some of North Melbourne’s impressive tall forwards.

“Fletcher’s form has been really solid,” King said.

“He’s 197cm, can play tall, preferably back, but we can swing him forward if we had to, it’s just a really good match up this week with North having three tall forwards.”

If gaining top spot wasn’t motivation enough, heart and soul midfielder Luke Dahlhaus will line up for his 100th AFL game — the team keen to honour him appropriately.

King paid tribute to the former rookie, praising his spirit and doggedness throughout his career to-date.

“It’s great for Dahl, to come off a rookie list and play 100 games,” King said.

“I think everyone admires and loves Dahl for the way he attacks his footy and gives effort and every contest and every game.”

The top of the table clash will be the first time both teams have played on a Friday night since Round 10, 2001 and the first Friday night game the Bulldogs have participated in since 2012.

The Bulldogs won their most recent encounter in round 22 last season by 23 points, with Marcus Bontempelli the most dominant player on the ground.

Round 6 – North Melbourne v Western Bulldogs
Friday 29 April 2016, 7:40pm
Venue: Etihad Stadium

In: F Roberts

Out: M Suckling

Milestone: L Dahlhaus (100 games)