Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has issued a warning to his side ahead of this weekend’s Good Friday clash with North Melbourne.
Despite contrasting starts to the season, Beveridge says his high-flying Dogs' side must be wary of North.
After winning two quarters against the reigning minor premiers in round one, the Roos have shown their capability to take the fight to the best in the competition.
“It is our big challenge to make sure we’re ready for their (the Kangaroos') best,” Beverage said.
“With (Ben) Cunnington possibly coming back into the side … and that emerging group of midfielders, there’s some real strength and grit around the ball.
“It remains to be seen whether we can maintain the rage against a Kangaroos' side that will be desperate for [its] first victory … we’ll have to be really on our toes.”
Having campaigned for Good Friday football since the 1990's, North finally played in the fixture for the first time in 2017, with the Western Bulldogs’ three-point victory an instant classic.
Beveridge praised North’s commitment to Good Friday football, and said he hoped the fixture would continue going forward.
“North Melbourne have put a lot of time and energy into promoting the game and I know how they feel about their involvement,” he said.
“It’s a great privilege for the club and our team to be involved on Good Friday … for both our clubs it’s really important for the future.”
