As the NAB Cup premiers, the Brisbane Lions carry obvious form into round one, setting a tough first up opponent for the Western Bulldogs. Making the challenge all the more difficult, the Dogs have lost their leader in Matthew Boyd, who is nursing a calf injury. The Bulldogs are cautious about their prospects this year, and round one gives coach Brendan McCartney a look at just what he has to work with this season. On the other hand, the Lions are improving rapidly, and want to continue their winning form with a confidence-building win away from home.
WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Saturday March 30, 1.40pm.
TV & RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
Rd 23, 2012, Brisbane Lions 19.14 (128) d Western Bulldogs 9.7 (61) at the Gabba
Rd 13, 2012, Brisbane Lions 18.6 (114) d Western Bulldogs 7.14 (56) at Etihad Stadium
Rd 2, 2011, Western Bulldogs 19.9 (123) d Brisbane Lions 6.9 (45) at Etihad Stadium
Rd 12, 2010, Western Bulldogs 17.19 (121) d Brisbane Lions 8.8 (56) at Etihad Stadium
Rd 4, 2010, Brisbane Lions 13.23 (101) d Western Bulldogs 12.7 (79) at the Gabba
THE SIX POINTS
1. The Brisbane Lions have won three of the past five clashes with the Bulldogs, but the Bulldogs have won four of seven games since 2009
2. The past four matches between the sides and five of the last six games have been decided by more than 50 points
3. In 2012, the Bulldogs experienced their worst season at Etihad Stadium since 2004, losing 11 of 13 games
4. This will be the 46th contest between the clubs and the Bulldogs hold the advantage, winning 26 games to 19
5. Neither side was a strong contested marking team in 2012, with the Bulldogs ranked 10th, and the Lions in 17th
6. In Brisbane's favour is the recent success in round one of the NAB Cup winners – every team has won their first game except one since 2006.
