Western Bulldogs defender Matthew Boyd says he’s “excited” for the match up against Greater Western Sydney this coming weekend.

It looms as a battle of young talent, with the Bulldogs and Giants boasting two of the youngest sides in the competition.

Both teams have had eye-catching starts to the season and Boyd says the Bulldogs are ready for the challenge of the 6-2 Giants.

“From the outside both have really talented lists, it’s going to be an exciting game.

“We’re going to see some really good young players on display from both sides. I think our list shapes up pretty well against theirs.

“I’m really excited to see how our young boys go against their young boys.”

The Giants sit fourth on the ladder after eight rounds, surprising many with how quickly their young side has developed into a genuine finals contender approaching the halfway stage of season 2015.

GWS’ wins record of six wins from their first eight matches,  equals their number of wins from their entire 2014 campaign. 

“They’re in really good form, playing a great style of footy, they’re going to be a really tough opponent this week.”

Boyd says after a disappointing loss in round eight, his side have quickly transitioned into previewing the Giants, and looking at the positives from the Dogs start to the season.

“The focus for us now is to look at the positive things that we do, the really good steps forward that we’ve taken this year so far.

“We’ve gone through a bit of our review process so far and we’ll have a good look at the Giants in our opposition analysis.”

Boyd has taken on a new defensive role in 2015, and at 32, is enjoying stellar form, averaging 27 disposals and eight marks.

“I’m really enjoying the new role down back, the game’s all in front of you so you can see it unfolding and make your decision based off that.

“To have a little bit of experience down there to at times steady the ship and impart some of our knowledge…  it’s an important role to play.”