Western Bulldogs key defenders Easton Wood and Zaine Cordy are excited by the prospect of more one-on-one contests this season.

The new 6-6-6 rule introduced by the AFL for 2019 will see ‘set’ positions at centre bounces, with the expectation it will create more one-on-one battles.

But for the Bulldogs’ skipper, who is fully fit after missing 10 matches last year, it’s an exciting development more than a reason to panic.

“Initially, at each centre bounce I think it makes it easier so I’m quite excited,” Wood told the Herald Sun.

“It’s great ‘cause it’s always going to be six versus six.

Cordy, who alongside the likes of Wood, Aaron Naughton and Dale Morris forms a strong contingent of key defenders at the Dogs, is of the same view

"One of the best things about our game is the one-on-one physicality," he told media at VU Whiten Oval on Saturday.

If anything, the rule simplifies things for defenders according to Wood.

“Normally, teams are playing tricks like playing ‘push throughs’ or wingers are sliding down or whatever, so when you go out there as a defender you’re always counting the numbers,” Wood said.

“You’re constantly trying to figure out where the forwards are going because normally the highest forward can push in and join the midfield or they go the whole way around and rip through.

“So this isn’t going to make too much difference. Right at the start it makes it easier for us, I believe.”

Cordy is confident that a fit Bulldogs outfit can challenge the competition’s best this season.

“Our goal is this year to make finals,” Cordy said.

“If we can stay healthy and get a good core of 25 players that can stay healthy I reckon we can have a fair crack this year.”