A 4-2 start to the season has helped validate the early season labours of the Bulldogs playing group according to forward Tom Boyd.
Boyd said that after a dramatic change in personnel during the off-season, the Club’s positive start to the first six rounds had given the Dogs confidence in their strategies and structures.
“Obviously the validation in how the team’s playing and the structures and the system we’re following is getting stronger each week.
“With every game we grow a little bit in confidence in the structure… so the more footy we get under our belt with a young side is the best thing for us and we’ll only get better with time.”
Boyd has enjoyed six consecutive matches in his first year with the Bulldogs, and said the continuity had aided the Dogs’ forward setup.
“It’s always nice to get out and play a few games in a row with the new teammates.
“We’re building that chemistry in the forward line… and we’re obviously getting better every week at working together and trying to get the best for the team.”
Boyd started strongly on the weekend, attacking the contest and pulling in four marks, but like his teammates, the intensity fell away in the second half.
“I suppose the contrast of the two halves is pretty plain to see for everyone.
“We lacked energy and probably a little bit of structure in the second half and we’ll review that.”
The 19-year-old is confident however that the Bulldogs would bring a four quarter effort this weekend against a tough assignment in the undefeated Fremantle.
“We’re super excited about the challenge… Fremantle have been a good side for a long time and any Ross Lyon side you play against is going to be a tough one.
“We’re looking forward to getting them on our home deck and see how they go under the lights at Etihad.”
