1. Aaron Naughton
Nicknames like Astro-Naught (maybe that was us…) and Air Naughton have been thrown around in the media this week.
There’s no surprise that emerging forward Aaron Naughton has been the centre of attention, after a stellar five-goal haul against Richmond.
Can he pull off the extraordinary again this weekend?
The 19-year-old will be out to play his role as the Bulldogs’ chase their fourth win of the year.
Lions’ vice-captain Harris Andrews makes his return from injury, and is the likely match-up for Naughton.
SKY THE LIMIT FOR NAUGHTON: WOOD
2. Macrae v Neale
Star duo Jack Macrae and Lachie Neale are among the best accumulators of the Sherrin in the AFL.
Macrae is averaging just shy of 32 disposals per match in 2019, and Neale almost 34 disposals.
Both are pivotal players in the scheme of this contest.
The midfield battle is always important, and perhaps this week it will be even more so, if Ballarat’s typically blustery conditions are on show.
One stat to keep up your sleeve is Macrae loves the ‘Rat. He’s racked up 41, 40 and 36 disposals in the Bulldogs’ three games there – and five Brownlow votes.
3. Dangerous Lions
A potent forward line awaits the Bulldogs’ back six this weekend.
Only GWS Giants (684) and Geelong (675) have hit the scoreboard more than the Lions (656) in 2019.
And the load has been shared by a mobile Lions’ attack which can cause headaches in the air or at ground level.
Big man Eric Hipwood leads the Lions’ goal-kicking tally, while in the likes of Charlie Cameron, Cam Rayner, Lincoln McCarthy and Dayne Zorko – when he pushes forward – there are a handful of dangerous options around goal.
EXPERIENCED DOG RETURNS FOR MISSION ON MARS
4. Long sleeves v short sleeves
It’s a debate we expect many players – Dogs and Lions – will be having for Saturday afternoon.
The surface on Mars is impeccable. Our skipper says it’s ‘absolutely pristine’.
But it’s going to be cold in Ballarat, a chilly 13-degree day forecast with a few showers passing through.
It’s 25 degrees in Brisbane today, so our visitors are in for a treat.
To all our Bulldog fans heading along, pack a jacket, or a blanket. You won’t want to miss it!
