Luke Beveridge has made one change to the Bulldogs’ line-up that defeated Adelaide, with defensive depth a focus as Fletcher Roberts comes into the side to face Sydney.

Roberts has been impressive throughout the VFL practice matches and opening two rounds, and was named emergency in the AFL team for round three, but will this week get his first chance at senior football for 2014.

Roberts brings height and will aid Jordan Roughead and Michael Talia in the Dogs’ back six as they attempt to curb the influence of a dominant Sydney forward line which includes Lance Franklin and Kurt Tippett.

Jarrad Grant has been omitted from the side to make way for Roberts.

Bulldogs assistant coach (backline) Rohan Smith said Roberts’ height would be an welcome inclusion in defence this week.

“We had no problems picking Fletch coming off his form in VFL, it’s been very strong, (he) shows really good signs reading the play.

“Coming in against Sydney’s power forward line this week will add a little bit of height to give us that little bit of depth so we’re looking forward to Fletch getting back there this week.

Smith said the Dogs have focused on finding balance in their game, with speed of ball movement a focus for the first four rounds, but Smith emphasised the importance of slowing the play down if necessary.

“We’ve got a really good balance of going forward fast and also just taking a mark and slowing it down and just getting the game back on our terms.

“We don’t want to take the instinct away from the players so if the players think that they can go and play on fast, we want to let them take that advantage so it’s just getting a balance of fast and slow play.”

After a promising start to the season, sitting 3-1 after four games, Smith said it was important his side did not get ahead of themselves and prepared appropriately for the challenge ahead.

“They (Sydney) are a fantastic team and they’ve been a fantastic team for a long time.

“We’re in pretty good form and we know that and we’ve recognised that but going up to Sydney, to play Sydney on the SCG is another big challenge.”

Grant, Lachie Hunter and Brett Goodes have been named as emergencies.

ROUND 5 - Western Bulldogs v Sydney Swans
Saturday 2 May 2015, 2:10pm
Venue: SCG

In: F Roberts

Out: J Grant (omit.)