Garry Lyon says that Saturday’s clash between the Western Bulldogs and the bottom of the table Brisbane Lions at the Gabba looms as a danger game for the reigning premiers.
The Bulldogs are currently positioned in ninth place after recording their tenth win of the season against Essendon last week, with only percentage separating them and the sixth placed Sydney Swans in the logjam that is the middle of the ladder.
Despite their young opponents having recorded six less wins, Lyon has been impressed with a number of the Lions’ recent performances.
With star Dayne Zorko and promising youngsters Eric Hipwood, Jarrod Berry, Hugh McCluggage and Daniel McStay all returning to the side this weekend, the former Melbourne forward predicts that the Dogs may have their work cut out for them as they aim to avoid being the first reigning premiers to miss the finals since Hawthorn in 2009.
“I think they’re getting better with every game they play under Chris Fagan because they’re all starting to get on the one page,” said Lyon on SEN Breakfast.
“They are a process driven side… [Lions coach Chris Fagan] has instituted a game style that is pretty specific.
“I think they’re playing with a freedom now. They realise there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
“I just think they’re developing along nicely and their very best is free-flowing, attacking and they go at it pretty hard.
“I’m expecting the Dogs to win but I reckon if they’re not switched on, they’ll get jumped.”
Jack Redpath and Clay Smith have been named for the Dogs, with skipper Robert Murphy only being listed as a travelling emergency.