Being proficient in the defensive side of the game has been a big focus for the Bulldogs and Fletcher Roberts says the team has improved significantly in this area in recent months.

The 21-year-old said he has been impressed with the teams' ability to defend the ground at both AFL and VFL level, as the Club looks to further enhance their high pressure game style. 

“The team defence as a group has really lifted in the last two months or so,” Roberts said.

“I think we are defending the ground in the way we want to as a whole team.

“It’s not just the defenders, it’s the forwards and the midfielders getting back and helping.

“It’s really working and showing as a group we can really go far.”

Individually, the 21-year-old has added four senior games to his tally this year – including both wins against Melbourne - after playing two games in his debut season in 2012.

While unable to break into the senior side last year, Roberts is grateful that he was exposed to senior football early.

“The early taste I had of AFL football was really good for me to see where I need to be at and the intensity I need to bring to training as well as game day,” he said.

“It really shows me what I need to do in the AFL.”

Playing a role predominantly as part of the back six this season, Roberts is enjoying a more narrowed focus as a defender, after playing as a swingman in recent years.

“I’m enjoying playing a role as a key defender, down in the jungle as they call it, against the big key forwards,” he said.

“I am really enjoying the challenges I face most week and getting the most out of it.”