Gun midfielder Josh Dunkley has made his presence felt in the Western Bulldogs’ engine room in the opening month of the season.
The 24-year-old has recaptured the form of 2019 – where he was in the All Australian squad of 40 – after an injury-interrupted 2020 campaign.
Dunkley is averaging 28.8 disposals per game this year, which ranks him among the competition’s elite.
Most importantly, he’s gelled as part of a new-look Bulldogs’ midfield that has helped the team jump to a 4-0 start and top spot on the AFL ladder.
It’s the first time since 2008 the Bulldogs have started a season with four consecutive wins.
“I’m feeling good, I’m really happy and stoked to be out there with those boys,” Dunkley said post-game.
“It’s been really exciting – four wins now and we’ve just got to keep the ball rolling and sticking to the process.
“The players we’ve got in the middle are really stepping up. I thought Jacko (Macrae) was good, Ads (Treloar) as well… they led from the front.
“To come away with our fourth win is a great start but we’ve just got to keep it going now.”
The Bulldogs lead the competition for disposals per game (413.3) and are equal leaders for clearances (39), alongside Carlton and the Gold Coast Suns.
It promises to be another big test for the Bulldogs this week, as they host the Suns at Marvel Stadium, on Saturday at 4.35pm AEST.
