The Western Bulldogs expect a tough battle this Saturday night against the Bombers, but the approach to the week has remained consistent according to Michael Talia.

“We are going to prepare as we normally would and we know we’ve got a huge task ahead of us,” Talia said.

With two games under his belt this season, Talia is focused on contributing to the team and shutting down his opponent each week.

“It was just about trying to solidify my spot in the back six and I knew if I played my role for the team and hit my certain KPI’s I would do that,” he said.

“I just try to go about my business from a day to day basis throughout the week and hopefully the rest takes care of itself.

“I have been doing edits with Brendan McCartney every week… so as long as I keep doing the things and play my role for the team hopefully I can stay there.”

While hopeful that Dale Morris will return to the back six this week, Talia said the veteran’s absence has allowed a number of young defenders to gain experience against quality opposition.

“I suppose it gives an opportunity for younger blokes like myself and Tom Young and even Easton Wood to step up and play on some taller opponents,” he said.

“As much as it wasn’t good not having him out there, it was good to get some leadership ourselves and really try to hold down the key position posts ourselves.”