World Footy News

The Western Bulldogs have arrived in London ahead of Saturday’s European Challenge clash against Port Adelaide and have announced their plans for a two week tour of the UK.

The trip will open with training at the European Challenge host venue Kia Oval, before the players are invited to the official welcome function at Australia House.

Following Saturday’s game, the Bulldogs’ players will tour the grounds of several EPL soccer clubs and Harlequins Rugby Union Club, as well as visiting the All-Stars training facilities of hosts AFL Europe.

The Bulldogs have brought a squad of nearly 40 players to the UK, including recently traded Bulldogs Koby Stevens and Tom Young. Newly appointed High Performance Manager Graham Lowe was also in London to meet the team.

Bulldogs skipper Matthew Boyd said the squad was forward to the weekend clash, as well as their tours of some of the UK’s leading sporting clubs where they hoped to ideas and experiences.

"You don't get the chance very often to swap notes with the likes of Fulham FC and the London Harlequins,” Boyd said. “It's going to be a fantastic experience - especially for the young blokes.”

Read the full story for key dates and events of the Western Bulldogs’ pre-season trip.

Wednesday 31st October 2012
12:25pm Arrive in London

Thursday 1st November 2012
9:45am Open training session at Kia Oval
6:30pm Official welcome function at Australian House

Friday 2nd November 2012
9:30am Tour of Harlequins Rugby Union (administration and select football staff)
10:30am Player tour the AFL Europe All Stars facility

Saturday 3rd November 2012
3:30pm Western Bulldogs vs Port Adelaide at Kia Oval

Sunday 4th November 2012
EPL Game - QPR vs Reading

Monday 5th November 2012
9:00am Liverpool FC meeting and tour
1:30pm Manchester City meeting and tour

Tuesday 6th November 2012
Presentation by High Performance Manager Graham Lowe
10:30am Chelsea FC meeting and tour
2:30pm Players tour Fulham FC facilities and meet Mark Schwarzer

Wednesday 7th November 2012
5:00pm Transport to Heathrow Airport to depart