A consistent run at the top level has benefited Easton Wood in the first four rounds, thriving on his more versatile role in the Western Bulldogs back line.

Becoming one of the Bulldogs pivotal run and carry players from defence, Wood lifted the bar again against the GWS Giants finding 22 disposals, four rebound 50s and five inside 50s.

Wood said winning the contested ball and forcing turnovers led to the Bulldogs 27-point victory on Sunday.

“We just got the game back to where we wanted it – we started to get back on top with the contested ball which is our foundation and that was the only way we get ascendancy,” Wood said.

“We were able to cut down their marks and get some turnovers – so that’s how we got back on top.”

The 24-year-old has also enjoyed the increased responsibility of playing a shutdown role in defence, using his athleticism to his advantage against taller opponents.    

An eight day turnaround for the Bulldogs has allowed an extra day of recovery after a demanding start to the season, with the Bulldogs now turning their focus to a winless Carlton.

“It’s great to have, it just slots in at the start of the week and we use it as an extra recovery day,” he said.

“We used that (Monday) and went down to the St Kilda sea baths… [it’s] really just about recovering and not having much on for the day, which is really what you need sometimes.

“We’re back [into the normal routine yesterday] as though it’s a seven day break… and we will move on to Carlton (today).”