Soaring Dogs a defensive challenge

GEELONG defender Jake Kolodjashnij has backed in fellow defenders Jack Henry and Lachie Henderson to quell a dangerous tall trio from the Western Bulldogs on Friday.

The Dogs have scored more than any side this year with spearheads Aaron Naughton (averaging 2.4 goals a game), Josh Bruce (2.8) and Tim English (1.5) leading the way.

Rising defender Henry has taken on a lockdown role this year on opposition tall forwards, Henderson has continued an unlikely career resurgence and Kolodjashnij has shown his capability against players of all sizes.

Kolodjashnij (pictured) said the defence could dampen the Dogs’ hopes.

“Jack has been super this year; he has really gone to another level,” Kolodjashnij said. “He has been putting in a lot of work in the gym and I do a lot of weight sessions with him and he is quite strong now and can compete with those big tall forwards. Hendo as well has been super. he has done some big jobs for us throughout the year. You can always back him in against some of the most dangerous forwards in the comp.”

He said the midfield would have to disrupt the supply.

“They have got some quality midfielders so it is going to come in at different times lace out so we just have to be really diligent in our defence and set up nice and early,” he said.

Positive news from the state government on Wednesday meanwhile meant that 7000 fans from Geelong and surrounding areas would be allowed in to watch the Friday night blockbuster at GMHBA Stadium.