Like North, injuries to key players have made things tough for the Bulldogs in recent weeks.

While they will lose a couple of their prime midfielders on Saturday night, the introduction of some experienced veterans, Matthew Boyd and Dale Morris, could be vital.

The Dogs have been one of the more competitive sides, even in their losses; five of their six defeats have been by under 25 points, with the only blow-out against Geelong in Round 13 (57 points).

But Beveridge’s men will take confidence after falling to the Cats by just 25 points last week.

The emergence of former no.1 pick Tom Boyd is sure to give Bulldogs’ fans reason for excitement, but he also adds another dimension having missed the game against North in Round 6.

On that night, Scott Thompson was able to get the better of Jake Stringer, and the Roos’ defenders dominated the battle.

With Boyd in the side, and Tory Dickson having booted a season-high three goals last week, they could be in for a tougher task this week.

Zaine Cordy is another big target and will no doubt keep the North talls accountable.

Through the middle, Lachie Hunter has had an outstanding season, averaging almost 30 disposals a game.

Brad Scott and his coaching panel will no doubt be keeping an eye on the left-footer, who racked up 44 touches in the teams’ last encounter.

Without Jackson Macrae and Tom Liberatore, more responsibility will fall to Marcus Bontempelli, who has been in fine form ever since the Round 6 clash.

Lining up for just his game since Round 12, Luke Dahlhaus is a constant threat, both around the stoppages and forward of the ball.

The ruck battle looms as an intriguing one. Last time around, Jordan Roughead and Tom Campbell shared the duties.

Boyd played the backup role for Roughead against the Cats with great effect, but with Todd Goldstein next in line, could Will Minson be called upon?

The Roos will need to be wary of Johannisen, who looked back to his best at Simonds Stadium.

The running defender was sidelined with a hamstring injury in Round 6, but is sure to keep North’s small-forwards on their toes.