Western Bulldogs captain Ellie Blackburn says despite Fremantle’s slow start to season seven, she’s expecting a fierce contest on Friday night.
The Dockers have won the last three encounters over the Bulldogs, but have struggled to find form across the opening two rounds this year.
On the eve of her 50th AFLW game and launch of Indigenous Round, Blackburn said the playing group understands they’ll need to bring their best regardless.
“I definitely didn’t expect their game against Geelong on the weekend to go the way it did, but we’ve known Fremantle over a number of years to be a really competitive side,” she said.
“I definitely wouldn’t write them off two games into the season.
“We’ll have to bring our best against them on Friday night – I’m really looking forward to the game.
“We’ve had some really good games against them over the last couple of seasons and some really close matches.
“I think they’ve nipped us just a couple of times so we’re looking to get one back.”
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For the first time since 2019, the Bulldogs are sitting 2-0 on the ladder, with a chance to extend that streak to a record 3-0 this weekend.
Blackburn said the way her teammates handled themselves in the aftermath of Brit Gutknecht’s leg injury over the weekend was inspiring.
“I’m really proud of the way the team got together to finish off the game on the weekend and have a really strong win,” she said.
“To start off the season 2-0 is something we’re really proud of as a team - to get a win on the road early on in the season too is really important for us.
“Considering what’s happened over the weekend with Brit, the mood around the club – the girls are just so vibrant all the time.
“They’ve got a great energy about themselves, and it’s something that I’m really proud of as a leader of this football club – knowing the group of players and people that we have.
“It’s a good energy and good vibes at the moment. We’re looking forward to another week and hopefully another win.”
Blackburn will become the first Bulldog to reach 50 AFLW games when she takes to the field in Indigenous Round on Friday night.
The Bulldogs will wear a guernsey designed by former development coach and proud Noongar woman Kirby Bentley, which highlights connection and empowerment.
The match-worn guernseys will be auctioned off post-game, with a limited amount of guernseys also available for retail at the Bulldogs Shop.
The final round three team will be announced at 5.30pm tomorrow.
