The Sydney Swans return to the SCG to take on the Western Bulldogs in a Round 16 Friday night blockbuster.

The Swans have hit good form recently, having won their past two matches against Richmond and Port Adelaide, while the Dogs found themselves back into the top 8 after a thumping win over the Tigers. Luke Beveridge’s side are sitting at 8-6 for the season with an eye on securing a final spot with a win over the Swans.

In their round 15 win over Richmond, Marcus Bontempelli collected 36 disposals and kicked three goals, while key forward Sam Darcy kicked five goals. For the Swans, Isaac Heeney was outstanding against Port Adelaide with 28 disposals and two goals while Brodie Grundy led the charge in the ruck with 22 disposals and 34 hitouts.

BUY TICKETS FOR ROUND 16 V WESTERN BULLDOGS

The Swans will be without Joel Amartey (hamstring tightness) and Riley Bice (omitted) but welcome back Jake Lloyd and Oli Florent. For the visitors, the Dogs have omitted Josh Dolan while Adam Treloar misses with injury, but they will welcome the return of Jason Johannisen and Ryley Sanders.

The last time these two sides met was back in Round 20, 2024, when the Bulldogs were far too good for the Swans at the SCG by 39-points. On that occasion the Dogs burst out of the blocks to be five goals in front at quarter time and maintained that lead until the final siren. Jamarra Ugle-Hagan booted four goals in the win while Adam Treloar amassed 40 disposals.

Friday nights clash happens to be Marcus Bontempelli’s 250^th game, with Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge heaping praise on his captain.

“The games that he missed at the start of this year have been an outlier on his journey," Beveridge said.

"An incredible leader. I don't usually use the word incredible too often, but he's just been such a significant figure, player, dignitary, character in our football club for such a long period of time.