Skipper James Graham is aware of the Bulldogs situation as they head into this week’s clash with the Eels and the remaining eight games of the regular season, but knows the side need to focus on one week at a time if they’re to play any footy in September.
The Bulldogs sit in eighth position with an eight and eight record as well as being surrounded by three other teams on 20 points.
The boys from Belmore head to ANZ Stadium on Friday night to take on arch rivals Parramatta in a must win game as both sides look to mount their charge toward the finals and cement their spot in the top eight.
“There is obviously a few excuses and reasons to why were we’re sitting on the ladder, but I still believe we could be sitting higher than we are,” said Graham.
“We have eight games left, we are just in the eight and we want to get on a role and hopefully be playing some footy in September.”
It’s been a frustrating season for the Captain with injury and suspension only limiting him to seven games to date, but the focus for the front-rower is taking one game and one week at a time.
“I am just taking it one game at a time. This season has taught me a lot in terms of the downfall to professional sport.
“I’m not looking at all past Parramatta and we really need those two points this week.”
The Origin period is over and done with and with eight games remaining for the Bulldogs, including five on the road, Graham is aware of the task ahead, and believes the side doesn’t need to change their targets, rather deliver on the standards that Coach Des Hasler and this club set.
“We’re all aware of the situation, where we’re at and were we are sitting.
“Everyone external knows where we want to be…the standards at this club and the standards that our Coach sets. We ‘re striving to make the playoffs but are fully aware the task is going to be a tough one.”
The Bulldogs will be looking to make it nine wins from their past 10 games against the Eels on Friday night at ANZ Stadium and cement their spot in the top eight.
