THE CHAOS of midweek footy continues today, with a clash between sides that could not be in more different places three weeks into the season. We preview the clash between Brisbane and the Western Bulldogs at Brighton Homes Arena.

Recent form

Brisbane is in menacing form at the moment and will be looking to pick up its third win on the trot to start the 2024 season.

The Bulldogs on the other hand showed some fight against the Eagles last week, but ultimately remain winless through the first three rounds of the season.

Last time they met

Despite being two of the original sides of the competition, it has been a few seasons since they have matched up on each other.

Back in Season 6, it was the Brisbane Lions who emerged victorious by 32 points.

The Bulldogs did actually lead early on that day, but once the Lions took the ascendancy midway through the first term they ultimately never gave it back, really putting the foot on the accelerator in the second half.

Key stat areas

Interestingly, the Bulldogs have been faring much better than Brisbane in the hitouts, but the Lions have been doing significantly better than the Bulldogs in the clearances.

One area that Brisbane can really look to dominate in tonight is the contested possessions. Although the Lions have not blitzed their opponents out of the park in that area so far this season, the Bulldogs have been poor in that department and face a body blow with the absence of Ellie Blackburn.  

Key match up(s)

There is going to be a lot of pressure on Heidi Woodley’s shoulders tonight. Coming into the side for Analea McKee, although she would not be considered a tall forward, Woodley will need to play like one. However, with either Jennifer Dunne or Poppy Boltz her likely opponent tonight, scoring will not be easy.