PDFL | Blues ready for clash against reigning premiers

United coach Darby Walsh said it was a crucial clash.

“It’s really important. Ladder-wise we’re in a very similar position,” Walsh said.

“Four points no matter who they are against are crucial, but if we can get the win this weekend it will certainly hold us in good stead for the rest of the season.”

He said he was looking forward to how his side matched up against one of the premiere teams of the competition.

“I’m really keen to see what they can bring and how we can go matching it,” Walsh said.

“We see this as a big challenge for us but also a big opportunity against a team that we rate very highly.

“They have a lot of experience, they have a lot of class around the ground. We really admire the way that they do things and we know they are going to bring a tough, physical game.”

The Bulldogs won the flag in 2019 and went 13-1 last year, but they have looked more vulnerable this season with two losses on the board already.

Despite that, Walsh said he didn’t think their ladder position was an accurate reflection of their quality.

“They’ve probably had a tougher run of things to start the season so we know they potentially are a stronger side than what the ladder is indicating at the moment,” he said.

Jai Morrison and Taylor Beard look set to return to the United line-up, but a couple of players could be in doubt due to illness.

“We have got a couple of in, but a couple of potential outs as well,” Walsh said.

“We’ll have to manage ourselves and we don’t want to bring anyone into the game who isn’t up to it.”

Walsh said the key to victory for his side would be having everyone playing their role.

“We need an equal contribution from everyone, and if we get everyone doing their role and doing their best at it, I think our best is good enough to beat just about anyone,” he said.

“For us to get the results, we just need to make sure everyone goes out there and is clear on what they have to do.”