1. One spot left
It’s simple. If we win, we’re in. But it won’t be easy to get there.
Dependent on other results, a narrow loss would leave the Dogs’ fate in the hands of the footy gods - provided the Hawks haven’t already won on Saturday night. With the Crows also in a must-win situation, Sunday’s match is shaping up to be one of the most exciting contests of the season. After a disappointing loss to Collingwood last week and the chance to squeeze into the top eight, Adelaide will be hungry for redemption. Pair that with the Dogs’ determination and an impressive run of form in recent weeks, and we’ve got a contest on our hands.

2. Astronaught on Mars
An impressive day out at Mars Stadium in round eight saw Aaron Naughton solidify himself as one of the premier young forwards in the competition. Booting three goals and taking seven marks in the Dogs’ 16-point victory over Brisbane, the Astronaught looked more than comfortable on Mars.
Fast forward to round 23 and Naughton has continued to go from strength-to-strength in his second season in red, white and blue. Ranked number one for contested marks (50) in the competition this year, Naughton’s role in the forward line has been pivotal to the Bulldogs’ rise in 2019.
With a forward line including the likes of Naughton, Sam Lloyd, Josh Schache and Bailey Dale, the Crows will have their work cut out for them on Sunday afternoon.

3. The midfield battle
It’s no secret that the Bulldogs’ midfield has received some attention over the past few weeks. An outstanding run of form from Josh Dunkley, Jack Macrae and Marcus Bontempelli this season has seen the Dogs’ midfield mentioned as one of the most influential in the competition. Matched up against a talented Adelaide midfield featuring Ballarat’s own Brad and Matt Crouch, alongside co-captain Rory Sloane, the Dogs will need to bring their A-game to Mars Stadium.

4. There’s no place like home
With a sold-out crowd for the first time in Ballarat, the Bulldogs will be feeling the love from at Mars Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The stands will be covered in red, white and blue, with the Dogs creating a home away from home. They’ll be hopeful their previous experience will hold them in good stead, come Sunday afternoon. A win over Brisbane in round eight in windy conditions should give the young side some confidence for the make-or-break clash. It’s all been building up to this moment, and the Dogs are ready.