What impact will the AFL’s new kick-in rules have on the Western Bulldogs in 2019?

AFL.com.au looks at the Bulldogs’ kick-in specialists last season, what worked well and where they could look to improve this year.

2018 LEADERS: Jason Johannisen (53 kick-ins - 22.9% of team), Bailey Williams (41 kick-ins - 17.7% of team)

Dashing defender Johannisen is an elite ball-user and led the total kick-ins for the Western Bulldogs in 2018, but his tally of 53 was the lowest number to top a club’s list. Given second-placed Bailey Williams and third-placed Matthew Suckling both averaged more kick-ins per game in less appearances due to injury, a case of circumstance as much as tactics might have played a part in handing the responsibility to Johannisen. Sharing the role certainly didn't deter senior coach Luke Beveridge from attacking on the last line – the Bulldogs ranked first in going through the corridor. 

WILL IT BE THE SAME IN 2019?

The Bulldogs were 16th for creating scoring opportunities from kick-ins last season so a new approach under the new rules should be embraced with open arms. An extra five metres to the man on the mark gives more space to wind up and that should be suited to the booming left boot of Suckling. Lachie Hunter took the most marks from effective kick-ins (11) but at 183cm that is both impressive and problematic. They need to find a stronger aerial outlet to maximise the kicking weapons available. - Paul Bastin

For the full story, click here