SUMMARY
While the Bulldogs put in a much more consistent performance in their first win of the season over Essendon last week, the true test of whether they've turned the corner will come against a hardened Swans outfit. The Dogs were hardly placed under any physical pressure by the Bombers and basically did what they wanted, but that won't be the case against John Longmire's men, as they sit third in the League for both contested possessions and tackles. The Dogs are last in the important statistical categories. Sydney re-established itself as a genuine premiership contender after knocking off cross-town rivals Greater Western Sydney last week, with key cogs Lance Franklin, Josh Kennedy and Luke Parker all pivotal in the impressive win. One of the more interesting subplots will be how the Dogs' injury and suspension depleted backline will subdue Franklin on the fast track that Etihad Stadium provides. In just his fourth game, exciting draftee Aaron Naughton may be handed the task of stopping one of the AFL's certified superstars. Good luck, young man.
WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Saturday, April 14, 4.35pm AEST
LAST FIVE MEETINGS
R12, 2017, Sydney 12.16 (88) d Western Bulldogs 6.6 (42) at the SCG
R2, 2017, Western Bulldogs 16.14 (110) d Sydney 13.9 (87) at Etihad Stadium
GF, 2016, Western Bulldogs 13.11 (89) d Sydney 10.7 (67) at the MCG
R15, 2016, Western Bulldogs 13.5 (83) d Sydney 11.13 (79) at the SCG
R5, 2015, Western Bulldogs 11.11 (77) d Sydney 10.13 (73) at the SCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. The Swans dominated the Bulldogs all over the field when they last played: 414-371 disposals, 106-65 marks, 28-12 scoring shots and 70-30 inside 50s. Isaac Heeney starred with 31 disposals.
2. Despite early season form issues the Bulldogs are the number one ranked side after three games for marks inside 50, with 53 at 17.7 per game – well ahead of the Swans, ranked equal 12th averaging 10.3.
3. It will be a contest between the most accurate team so far in 2018 and the least accurate; the Swans are operating at 57.1 per cent, the Bulldogs 38 per cent.
4. Lance Franklin has starred so far this season, topping the goalkicking with 14 at 4.6 per game. If he maintains that form he would reach the century in round 23.
5. The teams have played four times previously at Etihad Stadium, with Sydney winning three games to one. Sydney has enjoyed playing at Etihad recently, winning 12 of their last 13 matches, including six by 50 points or more.
6. Sydney superstar Lance Franklin sits fourth overall in the AFL Player Ratings with 596.2 points, while Bulldog Marcus Bontempelli has jumped back into the top 10 and sits 10th on 527.9 points.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR …
An understrength Bulldog backline is tasked with stopping Lance Franklin and the Swans' host of dangerous, smaller types. Skipper Easton Wood and his inexperienced defence will have their hands full.
AFL.com.au PREDICTION: Sydney by 26 points
