Wests have reversed their early season stumbles to remain on solid footing ahead of a round one rematch with first-placed Bond.

Possessing a three-win, two loss and one draw record prior to their outing with Brothers a fortnight ago, the Bulldogs were in unfamiliar territory of chasing the pack.

Having stabilized with strong wins against the filth and Sunnybank in recent weeks, the reigning champions are eager to capitalize on their newfound form according to coach, Elwee Prinsloo.

“It was an important two weeks for us to make sure we turn the corner in the four,” Prinsloo told Rugby News.

Falling to Bond in the first week of 2023 and Easts in round seven have been the only major hurdles of Wests’ campaign.

A sluggish start to their premiership defence wasn’t entirely unforeseen by the coach, who cited a host of roster changes prior to the commencement of the season.

Despite their obstacles, Wests now sit entrenched in the current top-four logjam and have recaptured semblances of their best form.

A rollicking yet frustrating 50-40 win against Brothers was evidence of this, says the coach.

“Brothers at Brothers are always tough but really happy to get the win there.

“I thought we needed to defend better as giving away 40 points is just not good enough if you are serious about winning the competition.

“I did feel however we were our own worst enemy at times through decision errors which kept Brothers in the game.”

The Bulldogs’ effort against Brothers highlighted defensive deficiencies that they sought to amend against Sunnybank.

In a 62-17 victory, Wests’ showcased both their firepower in attack and sturdiness in defence.

“Our goal this week was to concede less than 20 against Sunnybank which we did and that created opportunity in attack.

“It was great to see we stuck with it for 80 minutes as it was important for us to try and outwork our opposition.

“With seven changes in the starting team from last week, it was no doubt a good effort from the boys.”

Round nine was a performance that leaves Wests primed for their encounter with a much-vaunted Bond team.

Losing comprehensively to the Bull Sharks in the first week of competition, Wests will be eager to show how far they’ve progressed and restamp their authority as the best team around.

“We now look forward to regrouping and traveling down the coast to measure ourselves against the top team this year so far.

“No doubt this will be a big task.”