A combination of talent and application is Greater Western Sydney’s greatest strength, according to Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge.
Ahead of the Bulldogs’ round nine match, Beveridge says the young Giants strengths are now starting to come to the fore.
“There’s some real strengths in their game that are really shining through.
“Talent’s one thing but if they’re able to bring their application week in, week out, as they have done this year then they’re going to be a very dangerous side as the year goes on.”
Beveridge is confident however that the Bulldogs’ side will hold up against the rampant Giants.
“They have got talent in their side but we like to think that we have too.
“We’ll go in getting on the front foot, like we have most games, or tried to do most games and not be paranoid about GWS.”
Will Minson returns to the senior side to face the Giants, after having his VFL suspension overturned on Thursday night by the VFL appeals board.
With Minson free to play, Beveridge insists his selection to face the Giants wasn't solely to combat the size and physicality of in-form Giant Shane Mumford.
"It's played some role, some part of our decision making, (but) not in total," said Beveridge
"He's gone back and worked on his team defensive stuff and the offensive side of his game as well as his ruck craft and there's been a good balance in the games he's played.
"He's earned his spot back and the balance of the team going into tomorrow is really good."
The clash against the Giants will mark the first time former skipper Ryan Griffen will face the Bulldogs since he quit the club last year, but Beveridge insists it hasn't been a distraction for his young side.
"What we've talked about is our recent performances, we need to be better, and it doesn't matter whether it’s GWS or Port Adelaide next week, we're just looking for a more consistent approach and a more consistent contribution across four quarters," he said.
That lack of consistency over the past month has seen the Bulldogs' match committee make six changes for Saturday’s match – two forced due to injury.
A beneficiary of the changes is Joel Hamling, who will make his AFL debut after joining the Dogs last year following three seasons at Geelong.
It will be a baptism of fire for the 22-year-old, with the key defender set to spend time on one of the game's genuine superstars.
"He'll play on Jeremy Cameron at different points, so he'll have his hands full," said Beveridge.
“(Joel’s) really forcing his way into the side, he’s an athletic type… he’s another great story that’s unfolding.”
