What did the AFL pundits and experts think of the Bulldogs 2016 fixture? westernbulldogs.com.au compiles their thoughts below.


AFL Media – Ben Collins
 
Pros: The Dogs return to Friday night footy for the first time since mid-2012, with three potential blockbusters against North Melbourne, Geelong and Collingwood. Will become prime-time viewing in 12 night games. No consecutive road trips, and 14 games on their fast track atEtihad Stadium. Host big-drawing clubs Collingwood, Richmond, Geelong and Hawthorn.

Cons: The Dogs weren't granted their wish for a season-opener against Collingwood at the MCG, and on seven occasions they will have to negotiate six-day turnarounds, including three in the opening six rounds, and immediately following early clashes with Freo and Hawthorn. Will also be tested by fourroad trips from round nine to 17.

Play Twice: Fremantle, North Melbourne, Geelong, Collingwood, St Kilda.
Bye: Round 14.
First Four Weeks: Fremantle (h), St Kilda (a), Hawthorn (h), Carlton (a).
Last Four Weeks: North Melbourne (h), Collingwood (h), Essendon (a), Fremantle (a).

Six Day Breaks: Seven.

They Say: "We’re thrilled with the draw for 2016 and we thank the AFL for their support. To have three Friday night games, and also to play some of the biggest clubs in our home games, it makes for a fantastic season ahead – and was great recognition of the playing group and the coaches on an incredible2015. We believe we’ve earned our right to play on those big fixtures." - CEO David Stevenson

AFL.com.au Says: Huge home clashes with Fremantle and Hawthorn (when ex-Hawthorn premiership player Matt Suckling will play against his former side for the first time) in the opening three rounds should provide a good gauge on the Dogs. If their development continues as expected, they could get away to a fast start, given they play their first seven games at Etihad Stadium – a venue record. By the time they embark on the first of five interstate raids in round nine they might well have already built enough momentum and belief to sustain them.
 
 
Fox Footy - Ben Waterworth and Riley Beveridge
 
ARGUABLY the biggest winner of Thursday’s fixture release is the club with perhaps the biggest upside heading into the 2016 season.
 
After a stunning 2015 campaign, the Western Bulldogs have been given an ideal start to next season, playing all of their first seven games at Etihad Stadium — their beloved home venue that gives them the best opportunity to show off their quick, exciting game style.
 
Overall, 10 of their first 11 games will be in Melbourne, with the only interstate trip in that time just to Spotless Stadium to take on the GWS Giants.
 
The Bulldogs also receive maximum exposure — something president Peter Gordon was crying out for towards the end of the 2015 home and season. The club has been granted 12 prime time night games, including three marquee Friday night games. Big tick.
 
Dogs fans will also experience big-game atmospheres, with their team to host the likes of Collingwood, Richmond, Geelong, Hawthorn and North Melbourne in blockbuster games next season.
 
 
Herald Sun – Staff Writers
 
Ticks: Opening seven games at Etihad Stadium
Tick: After a three-year absence, the Dogs have jagged three Friday night matches
Tick: Play 12 night games, including 10 at Etihad Stadium, one at Geelong and the other a “home” game in Cairns.
Tick: Just one Sunday twilight home game, down from six in 2014
Cross: Tougher draw than 2015, with two games against Fremantle, North, Geelong and Collingwood.