Sydney Swans AFLW coach Scott Gowans has confirmed multiple changes for our match against the Bulldogs, including the the return of forward Brooke Lochland.

Lochland is part of four changes to the side, which will also see Irish duo Paris McCarthy and Julie O'Sullivan don the red and white once again, while Ruby Sargent-Wilson will play for the first time since Round 2.

Ally Morphett, Lauren Szigeti, Aimee Whelan and Jaide Anthony come out of the team.

Morphett will be sidelined for at least the remainder of the regular season after sustaining a hand injury against Hawthorn, with Gowans conceding it is a major blow.

"She is a bit disappointed with the injury - but that's footy," Gowans said.

"She will go away on do her rehab as best she can - she has obviously had a great season so far, so it's disappointing."

Sydney Swans coach Scott Gowans says he is eager to see the players produce a strong Swans brand of footy in their must-win match on Saturday afternoon.

"We're looking to bring some effort and intesnity and up it from last week, and see how far that gets us," Gowans said.

"it's less about moving the ball around, it's about getting hte ball forward and taking the game on.

The Swans exploded out of the blocks in Round 7 with rapid-fire goals in the opening minutes of the game, but were unable to withstand Hawthorn's relentless raid in the remaining three quarters. 

Gowans insists he wants the Swans to thrive in their effort and intensity from start-to-finish against a proud club in the Bulldogs.

"We had a rally tough session on the track the other night," he said.

"The girls energy was really good and I think it's another little notch on the belt if we can respond.

"We're coming up again an inaugural side, and they have won a premiership. Although they're not having a great season this year, they are still scoring and they just haven't had luck with injuries.

"We always need to be wary of a team that is proud, strong, and well coached.

"It's a big challenge for us but it will tell us a lot about the team and how far they have come."

The Swans currently sit 12th on the competition ladder with three wins so far in 2023, and a victory against the Bulldogs will help keep them in contention of a maiden finals berth.

Western Bulldogs v Sydney Swans
Saturday, 21 October
1:05pm
Whitten Oval

IN: McCarthy, O'Sullivan, Sargent-Wilson, Lochland
OUT: Morphett, Szigeti, Whelan, Anthony