Last time we met
Western Bulldogs 69 d Collingwood 53 (Round 1, 2021)
The Bulldogs took home the Robert Rose Cup after our last encounter, leading at every break and running out 16-point winners. Darcy Moore was a pillar in defence and finished with nine intercept marks, while Brody Mihocek, Jamie Elliott and Mason Cox kicked two goals each.
Key match-ups
Darcy Moore v Aaron Naughton
Naughton is averaging two goals, four marks and six score involvements a game and he booted four goals from 15 disposals against Port Adelaide last round. Moore is averaging six intercepts and six marks every week and made eight effective spoils against Richmond. With Jordan Roughead sidelined, Moore has stepped up to play a different role and will likely be tasked with restricting Naughton's influence on the game.
Pat Lipinski v Bailey Smith
Lipinski will face his former club for the first time on Friday night and if his form so far this season is anything to go by, Bulldogs fans will rue the day he left. Averaging 25 disposals and six score involvements, he is an important cog in our midfield and among our most consistent players. Smith is the Bulldogs leading ball winner, averaging 31 disposals, six inside 50s and seven score involvements.
Look out for
The Tigers scored 42 points from turnovers inside our defensive 50 last week - an area for improvement Craig McRae will no doubt make a focus point in the lead up to Friday night's game. Expect Collingwood to improve kicking accuracy and capitalising on our inside 50s.
