New assistant coach Daniel Giansiracusa says he’s pleased with the progress of the Western Bulldogs forward line, following the playing group’s match simulation session on Thursday.

In his first season after making the transition from player to coach, Giansiracusa has been impressed with the forward group’s willingness to improve.

“They’ve all been pretty good as a group, they’ve really impressed me about their application and their ability to want to learn.”

The group undertook match play during Thursday’s training session, with the assistance of three AFL field umpires to help replicate match conditions.

Giansiracusa said the forwards, and indeed the playing group as a whole, had a few key focuses for the match simulation as they prepare for their first NAB Challenge match late next month.

“That they get the structure right, that they’re energised, that they’re working for each other and that they’re a selfless group.

“We’ve spoken about it through the whole pre-season so far.”

Integrating off-season recruit Tom Boyd into the existing group that includes young Dogs Jake Stringer, Lachie Hunter and Luke Dahlhaus, Giansiracusa sees the importance of finding harmony amongst the group.

“I think the best forward lines are the ones that everyone’s involved and there’s not one focal point.

“They’ve all had their turn and done a fantastic job so far, so hopefully that holds us in good stead for when the season starts.”