Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has praised the effectiveness of his makeshift line-up after Sunday’s 57-point win over Adelaide.
The Bulldogs were forced into four changes before the crucial clash with the Crows, effecting either end of the ground, causing a re-shuffle and adjustment to the team’s system.
With Josh Bruce (managed) missing, Aaron Naughton stepped up with a career-best haul of six goals.
At his feet, Ben Cavarra kicked two goals in his second AFL game, with Rhylee West also slotting into the Dogs’ forward mix.
At the other end there was more tinkering required, with Zaine Cordy, Jason Johannisen and Hayden Crozier missing from the team’s regular defensive setup.
“We had so many different role players today, in a team that was piecemeal,” Beveridge said after the match.
“It was put together through some lads who have earned an opportunity, and also some boys who’ve probably gone back to where they started in our back end, in Roarke Smith and Ed Richards.
“We had to play it a little bit differently. We were a bit shorter in our front end. Tim English played an important role in that – unfortunately he couldn’t finish off his work as far as the scoreboard goes.
“I’m just really pleased with how functional we were, all through the lines, but we probably let them score a bit too easily, so we’re going to need to continue to go to school on our ball as much as anything.
“I felt that some of those blatant turnovers just really hurt us, going the full length of the ground at times.”
Another senior regular returning to the line-up was Lachie Hunter, who warmed the hearts of the Bulldogs’ faithful with a brilliant performance, after a period on the sidelines due to personal issues.
“He played well, Lach. He’s been an important player for our club for a long time,” Beveridge said.
“He showed this afternoon what he’s capable of. That’s great for him.
“It’s been a difficult time for him, and to come back in and feel a part of it and be able to produce that sort of football for the team and for his team-mates was outstanding.
“He’s always been invested. He’s been part of our leadership group over the journey. He’s got great care and empathy for his team-mates, but his words and his actions really marry up.
“Hopefully he can continue on his trajectory and he can help us win a few more.”
Beveridge also commended the performance of skipper Marcus Bontempelli (33 disposals, two goals and 12 clearances), who “led the way from start to finish”, and praised the work of emerging star Bailey Smith (37 disposals).
