WESTERN Bulldogs forward Barry Hall says he is enjoying football for the first time in years after releasing himself from the burden of his own expectations.  

The 33-year-old won the Michael Tuck medal for his seven goals in Saturday night's NAB Cup grand final victory - capping a pre-season in which he has kicked 17 goals across three NAB Cup games.

He believes he has flourished since his move to Whitten Oval at the end of last season. 

"In Sydney I put a lot of pressure on myself to perform. I had a lot of good years there but towards the end, it was unhealthy, the high expectations," he said after the game.

"I got older and I put a lot of unnecessary pressure on myself and it really weighed heavily on me.

"The Bulldogs have given me a chance and I just want to enjoy it and not put too much pressure on myself.

"I've slotted in nicely and there's no pressure on me internally."

Hall was traded to the Dogs in last year's exchange period after he parted ways with the Swans mid-season, following a spate of on-field brain fades.

He says he is constantly aware of his intimidating game style, which has often seen him win free kicks this pre-season.

"I play my best footy [being intimidating] and in saying that, it's been damaging in the past and I've stepped over the line," he said.

"Enjoying my football and using that as well … there's a fine line and I don't want to cross it again so I'm really conscious of it."

Thanking the Bulldog supporters - who sent up a stirring chant in his honour on Saturday night - Hall said his move to the club had enabled him to rediscover his love of the game.

"I'm forever indebted to the Bulldogs that they showed a bit of faith in me," he said. "If I can repay them by playing some good footy during the year, that's great."

"It's not going to last forever. Two-year contract - it's not a lot of time."