Former Saint Josh Bruce to join Josh Schache and Aaron Naughton in triple threat forwardline
The Western Bulldogs ended last season with one of the most potent attacks in the game — now it’s added more firepower with the edition of former Saint Josh Bruce, while strengthening the backline with one-time Crow Alex Keath.
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Western Bulldogs will unleash a three-pronged attack in Round 1 next year with recruit Josh Bruce set to lead young stars Aaron Naughton and Josh Schache.
The Bulldogs emerged one of the big winners of the exchange period when list manager Sam Power stared down St Kilda and Adelaide to secure Bruce and Alex Keath for a collection of mid-range draft picks.
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The recruits will stand in either goalsquare next season while the Bulldogs were also able to retain their No.13 draft pick in a major win for mild-mannered Power.
Keath underwent leg surgery after his medical examination at Whitten Oval and Power said he be fit for pre-season training in January, which would not affect his form next season.
“We still wanted him in the club, he’s on a three-year deal and he’ll be in full training post-Christmas,” Power said.
“It’s not an uncommon injury and its quite a straightforward procedure that he had.”
The minimal list turnover means premiership forward Tory Dickson, 32, is a good chance to earn a new one-year contract.
Premiership defender Fletcher Roberts and Roarke Smith are also out of contract.
Power said Bruce would complement Naughton and Schache. Bruce, 27, is expected to play as the deepest forward after slotting 164 goals in his past 89 games for the Saints.
“We think the three have got some different strengths and they’ll be able to work really well together,” Power said.
“Josh is really athletic for his size and a great contested mark and he’s strong. He’ll bring the ball to ground and give our forwards a chance and can also pinch-hit in the ruck as well.”
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The Dogs ended 2019 with one of the most lethal forward lines.
While the Bulldogs didn’t budget for the departures of Tom Boyd (retired) and Marcus Adams (Brisbane Lions), those holes have now been filled.
Keath’s arrival also dilutes the loss of warrior Dale Morris (retired).
“(Keath) is really courageous in the air. Not only his intercept marking but he intercepts a lot at ground level as well for a big fella,” Power said.
“He’s quite versatile, he can mix and match and play on the talls, but also a bit smaller as well.
“The way we structure our defence we like that flexibility. A lot of our halfbacks we have the confidence they can play on taller players as well.
“That versatility and that aerial courage is really appealing.”
Originally published as Former Saint Josh Bruce to join Josh Schache and Aaron Naughton in triple threat forwardline
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