Well here we are, it’s the first week of the Finals and it has definitely been an interesting journey so far this year for the Red, White and Blue. We have been exposed to a bit of everything from Barry Hall’s arrival and the positive impact he has had both on the field and also with the playing group, to the successful season under highly regarded Senior Coach Rodney Eade, to Captain Brad Johnson’s Testimonial year and everything in between.  2010 is a year that will be remembered as a stand out in the Club’s long history.

This weekend the Bulldogs go in as underdogs as they meet Collingwood at the MCG in week one of Finals action. The victor will have a week off but the loser will need to back-up again next week against the winner of the Swans v Carlton There has been much speculation on the state of the Dogs list after the Bulldogs virus which hit the Club hard and with recent injuries to some of the Dogs most widely recognised players. However, as a Club we don’t mind this, the team have worked at 110% since the pre-season and we are confident that every player that takes to the field this weekend will rise to the challenge and we hope their work rate on field will culminate in a win over the Magpies.

Our previous encounters against Collingwood this year have been tight, close tussles. The last time we met the Pies was in Round 11 at Etihad Stadium, on this occasion the Magpies took the victory so we know the Bulldogs have a score to settle this Saturday night when the two teams take to the turf. And remember the Finals are a totally different ball game where anything can and does happen.

Obviously to do this we not only need the team to perform on field but all of our Members and supporters, ‘our off-field team’ to show their unwavering support and fill the stands of the ‘G’ with Red, White and Blue. If you can’t make it to the game you can still show the world that your Red, White and Blue through and through by taking part in our ‘Paint the Town’ competition. There are some great prizes available, to find out more click here.

As the team prepare for the weekend Assistant Coach Peter Dean took some time out to chat with Bulldogs TV, sharing his thoughts on the AFL Finals competition. To view the video now click here.

For all your Finals information visit the Finals page of the website throughout the series!

Go Dogs!