A high premium will be placed on winning contested ball in tomorrow’s clash against Melbourne but Assistant Coach Shannon Grant believes the Western Bulldogs are well placed.

A stronger showing around the contest in recent weeks has Grant confident the Bulldogs can gain an edge winning the ball in close but said Melbourne can’t be underestimated in that area either.

“[Nathan] Jones is someone who is their heartbeat, he plays well week in, week out,” Grant said.

“Also [Bernie] Vince and [Dom] Tyson and [Daniel] Crossy – who has actually gone across this year [from the Bulldogs].

“They have a nice blend, they have a good mix of guys who can play inside and also do their role on the outside – they certainly complement one another.

“Having said that I think we have the right mix as well so hopefully we can get on top in that area on the weekend.”

Grant said an even contribution across the Bulldogs side will be needed against Melbourne and the rising form of a number of players will prove beneficial.

“Jake Stringer last week, he hasn’t played a hell of a lot of football down back but I think he certainly stood up for us and took steps forward in his development as a footballer,” he said.

“Luke Dahlhaus has come back into some pretty good form and I think the ex-skipper Matthew Boyd and also the current skipper Griff have actually started to find their feet and starting to play really strong roles for us through the middle of the ground as well.

“They are certainly guys we will look to step up again and be good contributors for us.”

Grant said continuing to chip away at the clearances and creating a contest will still be a big focus for the Bulldogs, as they look to capitalise on their strengths.

“It’s another game of footy and we will continue to go after the indicators and the things that we value going into that game,” he said.

“If we can hit those indicators and play well consistently for four quarters I think we will find ourselves well in the game again.”