Senior coach Luke Beveridge says his side is ready for the challenge of September.
The Bulldogs have secured seventh spot – and an elimination final date with the GWS Giants at Giants Stadium – after defeating the Adelaide Crows at Mars Stadium on Sunday.
“It’s a brand new ball game now,” Beveridge said post-game.
“We talk about creating the opportunity, and the season is two stages – the season proper, and it’s a whole new ball game once the finals come.
“We’re in there – and who knows what can happen.”
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Beveridge said he was proud with the way his side fought back, after entering the bye with a 4-7 record.
“It was a long shot 11 weeks ago, wasn’t it?” the Bulldogs’ coach said.
“I talked to the boys about how immensely proud I am of them… sometimes it’s difficult to remain consistent when you’re not getting the wins that you feel like are available.
“Even though we were dropping some games, the boys were still applying themselves.
“We’re not limping into this finals series, we’re going in with a head of steam with a brand of footy and probably a new identity so to speak.
“I think we’re going to be hard to beat.”
