Going head-to-head with an opponent appeals to the competitor in Fletcher Roberts and underpins his new-found appreciation of playing in defence.

While the 20-year-old still has aspirations of becoming a swingman, he is relishing the challenge of beating a new opponent each week as he develops his defensive craft.

“All the coaches at the Western Bulldogs encourage me to be able to play at both ends,” Roberts said.

“Obviously I played a lot of my junior career as a forward but playing a bit more down back at the moment.

“I’m just enjoying my footy and enjoying the challenge of taking on an opponent and trying to beat them.”

That competitive spirit is becoming a common trait across the Bulldogs playing group, as the coaches hold high expectations in that area.

“The main thing [Senior Coach Brendan McCartney] and the coaches keep talking to us about and encouraging us to do is just really compete and improve each game,” he said.

“There’s been a few close games against a few of the better sides and we’ve got a few wins as well – so I think the main thing is just to show continual improvement throughout the whole season.”

In his third year at the kennel, Roberts said he has complete faith in the direction of the Club and is excited to be at the Bulldogs.

“I’m really excited about what the Bulldogs have in the coming years, and it’s going good places, the Club, and I’m really happy to be there,” he said.

Roberts will play his first game on the road against the Gold Coast Suns on Sunday after being recalled to the senior side ahead of the round eight win against Melbourne.