Western Bulldogs midfielder Jess Fitzgerald says the group is ready to host GWS at IKON Park on Sunday.
Despite facing off only a fortnight ago in an official practice match – suffering a narrow one-point defeat – Fitzgerald said that result will only motivate them more.
“Unfortunately we went down by a point, but that’s only put more fire in our bellies I reckon – it’ll be a bit of (a chance) for redemption,” she told Andy Maher and Andrew Gaze on SEN.
“We’ve got a bit of an idea of how the Giants play – we’ve been reviewing the practice game, but you never know what they were holding close to their chest (compared to) what they were showing us.”
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Fitzgerald noticed the increase in training standards this preseason too, and credited coach Nathan Burke for his ability to keep the group motivated.
“Your fitness and endurance is something you’re always working on, and I think as a Club, have done extremely well this year. The group is looking in great nick, so I’m pretty excited,” she said.
“I think we’ve kept it pretty similar to other seasons – Burkey’s got a great way of getting across to all of the players.
“I think we’ve established a great leadership group this year as well, and the standards have lifted.
“Although we’re going about it similarly to past seasons, it’s definitely a level up this year.”
The Bulldogs will finalise their team of 21 at 5.30pm tonight, ahead of Sunday’s round one clash with the Giants at IKON Park.
