After a gritty win against St Kilda in Wednesday’s NAB Challenge game and season proper fast approaching, Western Bulldogs midfielder Mitch Wallis says optimism is high at the kennel.

“It’s been a good summer, it’s been a solid one but… I just can’t wait to get it going,” Wallis said.

“We’ve been very optimistic over summer obviously finishing the way that we did, there’s been a lot of enthusiasm but now we just need to transfer it and start the year really well.”

The 21-year-old highlighted the strong contested work of fellow midfielders Matthew Boyd and Tom Liberatore as pivotal in winning the St Kilda clash – with the duo sharing in 19 clearances and 11 tackles. 

“[As far as] best players, I think Matthew Boyd our [former] captain was good when it counted, Libba was consistent all through the game,” he said.

Wallis also said the introduction of Stewart Crameri into the Bulldogs attack, as well as pre-season gains from Tom Campbell and Jake Stringer saw the Bulldogs forward line become more functional, despite the tough conditions.

“I think Jake Stringer and Stewie Crameri, although they didn’t get as much of the ball they provided a really strong contest, along with Tommy Campbell,” he said.

The 21-year-old enjoyed an encouraging season in 2013 and looks to have brought that into the new year, finding 20 touches, seven clearances and eight tackles against St Kilda on Wednesday.