Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has described Tim English’s performance against Essendon on Friday night as the best of his growing career so far. 

The 22-year-old was instrumental in his team’s 42-point win at Metricon Stadium, with his ruckwork providing silver service to the Dogs’ midfielders matched by his influence around the ground. 

English finished up an equal career-high 22 disposals (17 contested) for the third time this season, took seven marks, won six clearances, kicked a goal and had eight score involvements.

“Tim knew he had a big challenge on his hands, and to see how he attacked it from the start of the game, it lifted everyone else,” Beveridge told media after the game.

“He was strong at the stoppage, but his work around the ground was fantastic.  For him to have a really dominant night, it’s exciting for our football club.

“He’s always been very optimistic, and always presented for the challenge ahead of him.  We’ve always asked him to really play to his strengths, and that’s what he’s done.

“Tonight was probably a little bit of an awakening for him, that he can have a significant impact on the game, but there are still huge challenges up ahead for him.

“There are some very, very good big men in the game.  It’s not going to get easier for him against the Gold Coast on Thursday next week.”

English’s modest nature was on full display when he spoke with Channel 7’s Luke Hodge on the field after the game.

“I guess it’s just a credit to the midfield.  They’ve given me a lot of confidence, especially after last week,” he said.

“It was a real focus for us to start from the word go, and be able to set the pace.

“I felt like over summer I was able to work on my fitness, and I had an uninterrupted pre-season, which helps a fair bit.

“I have lot of faith in my running ability, and I try to play to that strength.”