Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge admits he was shocked by Richmond’s name to relaxation premiership heroes Trent Cotchin and Jack Riewoldt for his or her round-four conflict on the MCG.
The Tigers have “managed” their three-time premiership captain Cotchin and Riewoldt, the fourth most-prolific goalkicker within the membership’s historical past, for Saturday’s contest.
Despite Richmond coach Damien Hardwick stressing the Tigers would relaxation a few of their veterans this 12 months, there was a way of shock across the AFL group when Cotchin and Riewoldt have been ignored of the match in opposition to one other finals contender.
Beveridge mentioned he had additionally been planning for dynamic ahead Maurice Rioli Jr, who was omitted, to play.
“It was a bit of a surprise, you plan for those guys (Cotchin and Riewoldt) playing, even Rioli,” Beveridge mentioned on Friday.
“Part of (Friday) morning was just spent processing and digesting the changes and what that means for us.
“Then we simply maintain our roles and our software. It would not change rather a lot for us.
“We’ve been playing our three key defenders and the boys (Alex Keath, Liam Jones and Josh Bruce) were terrific last week.
“It simply implies that considered one of them right here and there might want to play on a small-to-medium ahead (as an alternative of Riewoldt) which is okay. Our keys are fairly agile.”
After disappointing losses against Melbourne and St Kilda to open the season, the Bulldogs bounced back with a gusty victory over the Brisbane Lions last week.
Beveridge is hopeful the win, highlighted by Jamarra Ugle-Hagan’s instantly iconic stand in the face of vile racist attacks, will help kickstart the Bulldogs’ campaign.
“It’s just one sport, however we did numerous issues proper,” he mentioned.
“We left some alternatives on the market, as did the Lions.
“But we know that the adjustments that we made and the productivity probably in the defensive phase, that’s just going to lead to opportunities to hit the scoreboard as the weeks roll on.”
The Bulldogs have made only one change, with Riley Garcia (injured) dropping out.
Their sub can be both Buku Khamis, Jordon Sweet, Lachlan McNeil or Mitch Hannan.
Richmond enter the round-four match with a 1-1-1 document after dropping to Collingwood by 14 factors final Friday night time.
The Bulldogs have performed North Melbourne on Good Friday throughout current Easter weekends, however the AFL have changed them within the marquee match with Carlton.
“It has been a game that we’ve coveted and looked forward to, the Good Friday game, with the Royal Children’s Hospital appeal and what we’ve been able to do with North Melbourne,” Beveridge mentioned.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
