The former West Coast Eagle was clearly the Dogs best player in their 109 thumping at the hands of Fremantle in Mandurah.

Stevens, starved for opportunities with the Eagles, had 23 touches in the midfield for the Dogs, seven clearances and carried the ball inside 50 four times.

They are not bad stats coming from a side that was smashed in every facet of the game by the Dockers.

The Western Bulldogs played a young side against the Dockers, with Adam Cooney the only recognisable experienced player among the midfield group.

Stevens was traded by the Eagles to the Bulldogs for Draft pick 43 at the end of last season. He played only 11 games in three season while with West Coast, but also had his share of injuries.

''Koby Stevens showed us he is a good acquisition for us,'' Bulldogs coach Brendan McCartney said.''I think he will (another inside ball winner for us). We have a lot of depth in that area, although it didn't look like it today.

''Add to that he can play in other parts of the ground.

''He was craving an opportunity (at West Coast) and we can give him one.''

McCartney said the Dogs had been impressed with Stevens, now 21, since his outstanding performances in the Under-18 competition.

''He plays the game,'' McCartney said when asked what he liked about Stevens. ''He hunts the ball, is aggressive and he plays to win.''