Bulldogs looking to keep long time derby winning streak alive

The Bulldogs have won the last fourteen derbies over East Fremantle, a streak extending back to 2016, with just three of their twenty-two selected for Monday’s WA Day clash having tasted defeat against their local rivals.

South Fremantle defender Toby McQulkin is confident of a Bulldogs win come Monday's clash.

McQulkin told Sports Breakfast the club was still bullish on their finals prospects despite sitting second-last on the ladder.

“I haven’t played in a losing one, so hopefully we rock up on Monday and put our best foot forward and keep that streak alive,” McQulkin said.

“We put every bit into these derbies, it’s sort of a grand final in mid-year. All the boys are very keen.

“Fourteen in a row is a huge motivation point.”

Bulldogs star Jake Florenca made his return after nearly a year out of the game due to a serious hamstring injury in last weekend’s 4-point loss to Perth, with McQulkin saying he was a huge addition.

“It’s obviously massive. He’s put in the hard yards off the field, he does his best work when no one’s watching,” he said.

“There’s no surprise it’s all working for him, so hopefully he can keep healthy and stay on the track.

“He’s obviously a massive help for us, best player last week and I’m sure he’ll keep doing that.”

McQuilkin gathered 23 disposals on his state game debut in the loss to South Australia in Adelaide last month, saying pulling on the black and gold was a dream come true.

“I didn’t think that was going to happen anytime soon,” he said.

“Just to wear (the jumper) was a pride moment for me. All the boys were really good, just to go over there was a massive experience for me and one I’ll never forget.

“I think the culture is strong, and I think if you get the chance to put the Black Swan on I reckon everyone would take it with both hands and have a good crack.”

The Derby gets underway at 1:40pm on Monday at the WACA Ground, with as much as 25mm of rain forecast.

IMAGE: WA FOOTBALL