Footscray Bulldogs coach Ashley Hansen says his side are raring to go for their round one clash against the Northern Blues.
The Bulldogs will field a strong line up, with 17 AFL-listed players playing on Sunday at VU Whitten Oval.
The Dogs key defensive stocks are in good shape, with Kieran Collins, Joel Hamling and Fletcher Roberts assuming defensive roles, and Jack Redpath, Tom Campbell and Will Minson to share the forward and ruck duties.
They will come up against a new-look Northern Blues side, who have named seven debutants for the match including the AFL-listed Daniel Gorringe and Lachie Plowman.
With an undefeated run of four games in the pre-season, the Dogs are looking forward to start playing for premiership points and continue their development according to Hansen.
“We rated our pre-season games a success, not from the scoreboard results but the opportunities we created for all our players on the list, the conditioning goals achieved and playing style we were able to refine over the four games,” said Hansen.
The recruiting over the summer saw a transition of new players into Hansen’s side that has reflected the need in gaining VFL experience, and the Club’s goal to provide a pathway for local emerging talent.
“We have been really pleased with the way the entire squad has embraced the culture, values and playing style we want to be known for in 2016.
“Selection was difficult this week with a healthy list across both squads, the players chosen certainly deserve their place but many should count themselves unlucky we can only pick 23.
“I feel we are prepared for this Sunday but everyone starts on zero.”
Footscray squad:
12. Zaine Cordy
15. Tom Campbell
18. Fletcher Roberts
19. Lukas Webb
20. Josh Dunkley
22. Mitch Honeychurch
26. Declan Hamilton
27. Will Minson
28. Josh Prudden
30. Joel Hamling
31. Bailey Dale
32. Kieran Collins
34. Bailey Williams
36. Brad Lynch
40. Luke Goetz
43. Jack Redpath
44. Jed Adcock
47. Mark Austin
51. Lauchlan Dalgleish
54. Nick Jamieson
55. Alex Greenwood
57. Jordan Staley
59. Shaun Wyatt
61. Liam Nash
65. Jordan Russell
66. Mitch Hannan
67. Josh Wallis (23rd man)
