Football Strategy Coach Danny Daly told RadioTAB this morning the Lions will match up well against the defending premiers, the Western Bulldogs, on Saturday afternoon.

“We can match them around the stoppages. We can use the ball quite well against them. We have got a bit of belief,” Daly said.

“I think this week we just need to come with the ability to out hunt them. I think sides who have been able to out hunt them around the contest have generally gone ok against them,” Daly said.

The Lions will be looking for a repeat performance from Daniel Rich, after a strong performance in their Round 19 loss to West Coast.

Rich was impactful across the ground with 32 disposals and penetrating kicks. 

“He made his opponent work really hard on him and we used him quite a lot. Some of his deliveries inside 50 was as good as I have seen from him. We just weren’t able to capitalise on his ability to break the line,” he said.

Daly believes Rich’s game has improved this year as he can rely on teammates, in particular Alex Witherden, Cedric Cox and Sam Mayes.  

“It hasn’t been left to him on his own which it probably has been in the last couple of years. He’s got a bit of support around him and he’s able to free himself up a bit.  We’re going to need his run and drive against the Bulldogs this week,” Daly said.

Preparation has been light this week after the Lions’ Perth trek.

Daly says the side are feeling refreshed and are looking for payback after Round 5’s close loss to the Bulldogs.