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Marcus Bontempelli Named to Play Despite Knee Soreness as Bulldogs Face Sydney

2026-07-15 · Marcus Bontempelli · Match Report

Marcus Bontempelli Named to Play Despite Knee Soreness as Bulldogs Face Sydney

Marcus Bontempelli will lead the Western Bulldogs against Sydney on Thursday night, despite being bothered by knee soreness. The Bulldogs captain was named in the team, while Sydney's Isaac Heeney was ruled out with a calf injury.

What's at stake for the Bulldogs?

The Bulldogs are looking to bounce back from a two-match losing skid, which has seen them drop to fourth on the ladder. They will face a tough test against Sydney, who sit on top of the ladder with a 5-1 record.

The 2016 premiership reunion

The match will also mark the 10-year anniversary of the Bulldogs' 2016 premiership win. The team will come together for a reunion, with only two players from that team still active with the Bulldogs - Marcus Bontempelli and Tom Liberatore, who is currently sidelined under concussion protocols.

Coach Luke Beveridge's approach

Beveridge said that while the 2016 premiership win is a great memory, he doesn't believe in trying to measure up to a team historically. "That was then, this is now," he said. "I've never done it... it's always looking internally and trying to authenticate what you're doing together."

The task ahead

The Bulldogs will face a tough task against Sydney, who have been impressive this season. Beveridge said that his team will be ready to play, despite the injury crisis that has hit the team. "We've had time, we've spun out of that, and by the time we get to the game we'll be ready to play," he said.

Sydney's team changes

Sydney will play two debutants - Billy Cootee and Will Edwards - and have recalled veteran Dane Rampe following a rest. The Swans will be looking to continue their strong form, which has seen them win five of their first six matches.

The match details

The match will be played at Marvel Stadium on Thursday night, with the Bulldogs looking to bounce back from their recent losses. The match will be a great test for both teams, with the Bulldogs looking to prove themselves against the top-of-the-ladder Swans.

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