Zaine Cordy
Zaine Cordy was a mainstay of the Bulldogs’ back six in 2019, playing every match for the first time in his career.
The 22-year-old defender notched his 50th AFL game in round two and was dependable holding down a key post, working alongside the likes of Easton Wood and Jackson Trengove for the bulk of the year.
Cordy spent more time on the ground than any other Bulldog, and highlighting his versatility, also pushed forward at times and had stints in the ruck.
By the numbers
AFL Games: 23
Spoils: 141
Disposals (av): 9.7
Marks (av): 3.1
Tackles (av): 1.7
Best game
The no-fuss defender stood tall as the Bulldogs pushed Fremantle for three quarters on their home deck in round six.
Cordy had 10 disposals and four rebound-50s to go with a season-high 13 defensive half pressure acts and 10 spoils.
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Fletcher Roberts
Senior opportunities were tough to come by for experienced defender Fletcher Roberts in 2019.
The 26-year-old featured at AFL level on two occasions, including his 50th AFL game in round eight against the Brisbane Lions.
Roberts formed a strong defensive contingent for Footscray for the bulk of the year, alongside the likes of Lewis and Lachie Young.
By the numbers
AFL Games: 2
Spoils: 10
Disposals (av): 9
Marks (av): 2
Tackles (av): 1.5
Best game
Roberts was a late inclusion in round eight – replacing ruckman Tim English – as the Bulldogs overcame the Lions in Ballarat.
He had nine disposals and eight spoils, helping to tame a tall forward line including Eric Hipwood, Dan McStay and Oscar McInerney.
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Lewis Young
Emerging defender Lewis Young spent most of the year at VFL level, but broke through for five AFL appearances – two early in the year, plus the final three games.
Still just 20 years old, Young showcased his agility for a key defender and ability to compete in the air, holding his spot at the end of the season to be one of 11 Bulldogs to make an AFL finals debut.
Young re-signed for two years in July, which means he will remain a Bulldog until at least the end of 2021.
By the numbers
AFL Games: 5
Spoils: 33
Disposals (av): 12
Marks (av): 4.2
Tackles (av): 0.8
Best game
Young was a late inclusion for the Bulldogs’ big win against the GWS Giants in round 21 – jumping on a plane to Sydney on the morning of the game.
But he settled in seamlessly to play an important defensive role, effecting eight spoils while winning 17 disposals, eight marks and six rebound 50s.
