Expert
The Western Bulldogs have dubbed tonight’s clash with Collingwood as “Mission Possible”. It’s time to find out if that’s true. We’ll have live scores and updates from 7.50pm AEST.
Both these sides sit outside of the top eight, the Dogs on just two wins and the Pies on three.
They’ll both be eager to build some momentum after wins last week.
The Pies won a thrilling Anzac Day game against Essendon by a solitary point. 42 possessions to Dane Swan was the standout individual performance.
Injuries have been a big story for the club this year, but after falling to Carlton by 60 points in Round 3, coach Nathan Buckley has been able to steady the ship somewhat.
Some big names come back into the squad this week with Heath Shaw and Ben Reid returning for Jarryd Blair and Paul Seedsman.
The Dogs last Saturday travelled to Manuka Oval to take on the GWS Giants and grinded out a 42-point win despite a goalless first quarter. Ryan Griffen and Shaun Higgins were among the best.
It was their second consecutive win after claiming the scalp of Melbourne the week before.
Neither the Giants nor the Dees are considered to be the toughest of opposition to put away, so games like tonight are where we see a truer gauge of where the team is at.
They will benefit from Daniel Giansiracusa and Ryan Hargrave coming back into the side.
Realistically, this is a game Collingwood should win.
They have an edge in each area of the ground, with the names they have back this week in defence, the extra class in the midfield and the Western Bulldogs having struggled in attack this year.
The Dogs say it’s possible. The truth would appear to be that it’s unlikely.