Practice matches are just around the corner for the Western Bulldogs, with match simulation sessions at VU Whitten Oval ramping up.

A four-quarter training block across 80 minutes took place on a warm, windy morning at the Kennel on Friday.

It was an extension on the Bulldogs’ recent match simulation sessions.

An ‘unofficial’ practice match against another Victorian-based AFL club awaits over the coming month, before the AAMI Community Series match on March 8 against Melbourne at Marvel Stadium.

Star midfielder Josh Dunkley said things were progressing nicely at this stage of the pre-season.

“It was a good hit-out. We spent some time trying to build chemistry in teams and it was another step in the right direction,” he told westernbulldogs.com.au.

“The boys have been training really well since day one of pre-season. It’s been a positive start.”

Aaron Naughton was at his high-flying best, taking some big marks and converting. He was supported strongly by fellow forward Josh Bruce, who also spent time in the ruck.

Dunkley found plenty of the footy, as did the usual midfield suspects. Tom Liberatore was among them – he also hit the scoreboard on multiple occasions, as did Lin Jong.

Emerging midfielder-forwards Rhylee West and Ben Cavarra also showed some promising signs.

It’s been a different pre-season for the Bulldogs – and all clubs – with most returning to full training in the new year, as opposed to December.

But Dunkley praised the group for coming back in great physical condition, which has allowed them to get straight into match practice.

“The boys love playing footy, that’s what we’re here to do. It’s nice to be able to get those sessions in and slowly increase it as the weeks go on,” he said.

“There’s no rest, but it’s good. I think we’re going really well as a group and excited about what we can do this year.”