1. Dogs on a rampage
Easton Wood’s AFLX team might be no more, but his Bulldogs have certainly been at their rampaging best over the past two weeks.
A sensational streak of 21 consecutive goals against Essendon last week was backed up by another 12-in-a-row against GWS Giants on Sunday afternoon – with the Giants unable to split the big sticks at all in the second half.
And they now a boast of bevy of goal-kicking options, with the load again shared against the Giants.
Josh Schache snagged three, while six other Dogs chipped in with a pair apiece.
TICKETS: SECURE YOUR PLACE AT MARS STADIUM FOR THE DOGS VS CROWS CLASH THIS SUNDAY
2. The late change
Tim English’s late withdrawal due to illness certainly through a spanner in the works.
But it was only momentary, as the Dogs swung the magnets – and put Lewis Young on a plane.
Jackson Trengove moved back into the ruck – a role he has played at different stages this year – and acquitted himself well around the contest, finishing with six clearances to go with 24 hit-outs.
Young also slotted in seamlessly in defence in just his third AFL match for the year and his first since round three, collecting 17 disposals, seven marks and effecting six rebound-50s.
Having positional versatility – and in-form players at VFL level – is certainly becoming a major strength for the Dogs.
IN THE ROOMS: LEWIS YOUNG TALKS TO BULLDOGS MEDIA AFTER THE ROUND 22 WIN
3. It’s in our hands
Remember when Bevo brought Rhylee West in for his AFL debut?
It’s like that – we think.
It’s in our hands.
At stages this year it has looked unlikely, and at other times the Dogs have looked like one of the best sides in the competition.
On the back of the past two weeks, it looks like they’ve peaked at the right time.
And for all of the potential equations and ladder positions up in the air ahead of round 23, one thing is for sure.
Win, and we’re in.