Luke Beveridge says Western Bulldogs must stand up to Hawthorn’s physical game

WESTERN Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has challenged his team to stand up to whatever Hawthorn might throw at them in Friday night’s knockout semi-final.

Jake Stringer and Grant Birchall have a conversation. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

WESTERN Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has challenged his team to stand up to whatever Hawthorn might throw at them in Friday night’s knockout semi-final at the MCG.

The reigning premier Hawks, who were stung last week going down to Geelong after the siren, will no doubt try and assert their authority over the young Bulldogs.

But Beveridge is confident his Bulldogs will stick to their guns and not become undisciplined.

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“It’s been part of the Hawks’ trademark for a long period of time, they’re a hard-nosed football team,” Beveridge said.

“I think some of the more experienced sides maybe think they can exploit that from time to time and our guys, encouragingly, have been able to stand up against that but this is another big final.

“We need to stand up and be counted and play our best footy, you can’t get carried away and be undisciplined, we just need to be as hard as we have been and I think that will serve us well.”

Luke Dahlhaus gets a kick away under pressure. Picture: Michael Klein

North Melbourne tried and failed to intimidate the Bulldogs, especially rising superstar Marcus Bontempelli, when the two sides met in Round 20.

“We have stood up pretty well when it has come from a team or two throughout the course of the year,” Beveridge said.

“I’m sure that (Hawthorn will) really focus on the contest, and imposing themselves there, but if that comes then our players just have to meet that challenge head on.”

Beveridge wouldn’t be drawn on who might replace injured midfielder Lin Jong (broken collarbone) other than to suggest it wouldn’t be a surprise selection.

Toby McLean, Koby Stevens and Lukas Webb are considered the prime candidates to replace the in-and-under midfielder.

AFL Round 3. Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn at Etihad Stadium. Ryan Schoenmakers marks despite Marcus Adams pressure . Pic: Michael Klein. Sunday April 10, 2015.

Bulldogs sharpshooter Tory Dickson echoed his coach’s sentiments.

“We know Hawthorn is going to come out with a big sting and probably be very physical,” he told SEN.

“We’re up for the challenge and you’ve seen them in many games this year, in big games, where they’ve come out and tried to be nice and brutal and hurt the opposition and it’s worked and it’s worked for three or four years.

“We know they’re a great side and we’re definitely going to be up for the challenge so we’re not going to take a backward step.”