Bulldogs coach Brad Spear says not only is his young side one that can’t afford to take any opponent lightly, but he only has to recall the first half of their round three game to know what Kangaroo Flat is capable of.

That day the Roos – who have lost their past six – jumped out to a 34-point lead at half-time and were all over the Bulldogs.

However, the Bulldogs rallied with a 10-goal to two second half to win by 16 points – one of their three victories for the season.

“We’ve spoken this week about the importance of making sure we bring from the start of the game our effort of the second half against Flat last time,” Spear said.

“We certainly won’t be taking them lightly, but if we work really hard and do all the right things then it’s an opportunity to win at home.”

Meanwhile, in other round 12 games on Saturday Maryborough hosts South Bendigo and Castlemaine takes on Kyneton.