westernbulldogs.com.au takes an in-depth look at the key match ups ahead of the Bulldogs clash against the Saints on Sunday, as well as determining which individuals loom as potential game breakers under the roof at Etihad Stadium
Key Match Ups
Defensive Battle:
Tom Williams on Nick Riewoldt
It will be Queenslander against Queenslander if Williams lines-up against Riewoldt on Sunday. While the Saints skipper’s 2012 form hasn’t quite matched that of his season’s past, Riewoldt still looms as a highly dangerous threat in front of goals and capable of kicking a bag if not marked closely. Riewoldt enjoys playing a high forward role, covering significant territory and dragging his opponent up onto the wing before working back close to goal. Williams ability to run with the Saints’ athletic power forward will go a long way to determining who claims honours in this match-up.
Brian Lake on Justin Koschitzke.
All Australian fullback Brian Lake has been on point this season in the last line of defence and will be looking to continue that record against Koschitzke. Having kicked only three goals in the past five rounds, Koschitzke will be eager to regain form and find some confidence in front of goals in the lead-up to finals. Accountability will be the key in this match-up. Lake likes to roam and provide the extra man up in a marking dual. Koschitzke will have to work hard defensively if he is to match the in form Lake.
Midfield Battle:
Liam Picken on Lenny Hayes
Liam Picken is not one to shy away from a run with role and has been tasked week in week out with nullifying the oppositions most influential playmakers. While St Kilda’s midfield stocks are filled with a number of big names, Lenny Hayes looms as the man to face close attention from Picken. Currently leading the Saints in disposals, clearances and tackles Hayes has been dangerous in the midfield this season and was instrumental in St Kilda’s round three defeat over the Bulldogs. While St Kilda is spoilt for midfield options, curtailing Hayes will be a step in the right direction to closing down easy touches in close for the Saints.
Ruck Duel:
Will Minson on Ben McEvoy
Will Minson has been in career best form this season after assuming the mantle as the Bulldogs’ premier ruck option in 2012. His 52 hit-outs last weekend highlighted just how dominant the Bulldogs big man can be when on-song. Ben McEvoy on the other hand was less than influential in the ruck against Sydney despite Shane Mumford falling to injury. While the Bulldogs are ranked fourth in the league for hit-outs, St Kilda is 17th and the Dogs will be hoping that trend continues this week.
Game Breakers
Robert Murphy
The on-field general of the back six, Murphy has been the main provider of run and rebound out of the back half for the Bulldogs this season. His silky skills and all-round presence in the backline proves he’s more than worthy of tearing the game apart.
Steven Milne
Leading St Kilda’s goal tally alongside Nick Riewoldt, Milne is a dangerous player in the Saint’s forward half. He has kicked 13 goals in the past three games and does not appear likely of slowing down. Milne is the quintessential confidence player, deny him opportunity early and you’re half a chance of shutting him out. That said, give Milne half an opportunity at any stage and he’ll more than likely capitalise and make you pay.
Luke Dahlhaus
With a game and career high four goals last weekend against Carlton, Dahlhaus has shown on numerous occasions his ability to spark his side. His energy and enthusiasm, and defensive pressure off the ball are inspiring for fans and teammates alike. Consistency has been the key for the second year player, who will be keen to prove his impressive performance against the Blues was no fluke.
Read Westernbulldogs.com.au's full Opposition Analysis ahead of the Saints clash.
