SUMMARY
Probably the match of the round, this clash between fierce adversaries has plenty riding on the outcome.
The GIANTS returned to form by dismantling Melbourne, and in doing so, enhanced their chances of finishing in the top four after just recording one win in their previous five matches.
The loss of Shane Mumford to suspension is big blow, but the return of star forward Toby Greene from a two-week ban is a huge inclusion.
After a stuttering start to their premiership defence, the Bulldogs have finally found something close to their best form by winning four games on the trot.
Needing to win at least two of their remaining three games to qualify for the finals, the Dogs are back to their manic best around the contest and have superstar Marcus Bontempelli back in devastating form. The match looms as another classic in the clubs' growing rivalry.
WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Friday, August 11, 7.50pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R6, 2017, GIANTS 11.9 (75) d Western Bulldogs 9.19 (73) at UNSW Canberra Oval
1PF, 2016, Western Bulldogs 13.11 (89) d GIANTS 12.11 (83) at Spotless Stadium
R9, 2016, GIANTS 15.8 (98) d Western Bulldogs 10.13 (73) at Spotless Stadium
R9, 2015, Western Bulldogs 16.17 (113) d GIANTS 11.2 (68) at Etihad Stadium
R23, 2014, GIANTS 18.7 (115) d Western Bulldogs 15.19 (109) at Etihad Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. In round six, the Bulldogs led by nine points at half-time and five at the final change before the GIANTS kicked three goals to two in the final quarter. Jeremy Cameron, Toby Greene and Jonathon Patton kicked 10 of the GIANTS' 11 goals.
2. The GIANTS continue to be the best clearance and centre clearance team this season, averaging 43.3 in clearances and 14.4 in centre clearances. The Bulldogs are 14th and 17th in the respective categories.
3. The Bulldogs and GIANTS clash for the ninth time, and the Dogs hold the advantage, winning five games to three.
4. The Bulldogs continue to be a strong tackling side, ranked third averaging 72.1, well ahead of the GIANTS, who are ninth at an average of 69.3.
5. The Bulldogs will be aiming for five consecutive wins, something they haven’t achieved in the same season since rounds 15-19 in 2010.
6. Marcus Bontempelli is the highest-ranked Bulldog in the Schick AFL Player Ratings, sitting eighth with 560.2 points. Toby Greene is the best-placed GIANT in 13th place with 518.7 points.
The GIANTS take on the Western Bulldogs at 7:50pm on Friday night at Etihad Stadium with live coverage on 7mate in NSW and the ACT and Channel 7 nationally.
