The Western Bulldogs have made three changes ahead of Saturday afternoon’s clash against the GWS Giants at Marvel Stadium.
Key defender Ryan Gardner returns to the line-up after missing last week with a calf complaint, bolstering the backline against the Giants.
Ruckman Stef Martin makes his long-awaited return from injury for the vital clash, coming into the AFL side for the first time since Round 8.
The 35-year-old has been in fantastic VFL form over the past fortnight, notching 28 touches, two goals and 24 hit-outs in Footscray’s victory on Saturday.
Lachie Hunter returns to the fold after a standout performance of 31 touches and three goals against Coburg last week.
Forward Josh Bruce has been managed for Saturday’s fixture, while Riley Garcia and Alex Keath have been omitted.
Josh Schache, Riley Garcia, Roarke Smith and Alex Keath have been listed as emergencies.
One of the four will be confirmed as this week’s medical substitute an hour before the first bounce.
Fox Footy will broadcast the game live.
ROUND 22 TEAM
Western Bulldogs v GWS Giants
Saturday 13 August, 1.45pm AEST
Marvel Stadium
B: Ed Richards, Ryan Gardner, Zaine Cordy
HB: Caleb Daniel, Sam Darcy, Bailey Dale
C: Jack Macrae, Tom Liberatore, Bailey Smith
HF: Rhylee West, Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, Josh Dunkley
F: Cody Weightman, Aaron Naughton, Laith Vandermeer
R: Tim English, Marcus Bontempelli, Adam Treloar
Int: Lachie Hunter, Stefan Martin, Lachlan McNeil, Bailey Williams
Emer: Josh Schache, Riley Garcia, Roarke Smith, Alex Keath
In: Stefan Martin, Ryan Gardner, Lachie Hunter
Out: Josh Bruce (managed), Alex Keath (omitted), Riley Garcia (omitted), Toby McLean (medi-sub)
