After beginning the season with an impressive win over the Manly Sea Eagles, bulldogs.com.au takes a look at six questions yet to be answered ahead of the clash with the Penrith Panthers.
1. Who will replace James Segeyaro?
The Panthers have confirmed that James Segeyaro has suffered a fractured arm and will be sidelined for up to 8 weeks. The livewire dummy half is an integral part of their side and his replacement has big shoes to fill. Will Coach Anthony Griffin look to new recruits Zac Docker-Clay or Te Maire Martin or look to play Will Smith at hooker after finishing the game in the number nine position when Segeyaro left the field. Back-rower Elijah Taylor who played NSW Cup on the weekend is also an experienced option for the Panthers.
2. Will the Panthers handle the short turn around?
After opening their season with a loss in 36-degree heat to the Raiders, including a road trip to the nation’s capital, the Panthers will now have five days to get ready for the Bulldogs who came away from round one with an impressive win and a couple of days rest.
3. Can the Bulldogs improve their record at Penrith?
The Bulldogs will head to the foot of the mountains on Thursday night looking for their second win of the season, but more importantly looking to improve their record at the Panthers home ground. The Bulldogs have won just 4 of their last 10 and 1 of their last 5 which was back in 2012.
4. Will Tolman and Graham dominate again?
Front-rowers Aiden Tolman and James Graham were outstanding against the Sea Eagles in Round 1, leading from the front. Both men combined for a total of 54 carries, ran for 420m and made a total of 84 tackles between them, but most impressive was their minutes spent on the field. Graham got through 71 minutes and Tolman 62. Another challenge awaits the workhorses on Thursday night.
5. What will David Klemmer bring on Thursday night?
After missing Round 1 due to suspension, young front-rower David Klemmer will make his 2016 debut on Thursday night. The representative star will be looking to provide plenty of impact from the bench and his return will only improve the work that has already been laid out by his fellow teammates.
6. Will Matt Moylan return?
Panthers Captain Matt Moylan missed his side’s loss to the Raiders and is hoping a minor stress fracture discovered after his club's final trial match will only cause him to miss a game. The very talented number one is an integral part of their attack and with other injuries surrounding the Panthers camp, his potential return would be will be an added bonus.
