Bulldogs veteran Brett Morris has proven to be the club's lucky charm since returning from a long-term knee injury six weeks ago.
Known as the 'Greyhound' at the Bulldogs' Belmore training base, Morris's return in Round 16 of the Telstra Premiership provided instant dividends, the club has only lost once this year in six appearances.
Morris scored seven tries in his first three games and while they may have dried up since, he showed his importance by laying on a notable four-pointer for brother Josh against the Knights last weekend.
The New South Wales and Australian winger has also averaged 124.6 metres and five tackle breaks per game in 2016.
"He's done really well since he's come back," Bulldogs prop David Klemmer said.
"He's scoring tries and that's exactly what we need. He's played really well in the past month or so, and he's a world-class winger.
"Brett's slotted right in there and he's been perfect for us."
Morris believes having brother Josh as his centre partner has helped his seamless transition back to the wing.
Prior to his return, Morris hadn't featured on an edge since Round 26, 2014 – his final game at St George Illawarra.
Accustomed to playing fullback in his short Bulldogs career, the form of Will Hopoate was too good for coach Des Hasler to deny.
"We played a lot of footy together growing up. Watching Josh play and being outside of him has made my job a lot easier," Morris said.
"We don't really need to speak. I just know his habits. What he has done in the past, is probably what he is going to do again which makes things a bit easier.
"It's just about getting out there now and do my job as best as possible. With my training, the staff really monitor the load that I'm doing [with my knee].
"As a result, the knee has been pretty good so far. Being the older guy too, the younger guys tend to listen to what I have to say which is always nice."
Morris remains wary of the Bulldogs' upcoming Sea Eagles opponents on Thursday night, who need to win every one of their remaining games to keep their slim finals hope alive.
"They'll come out fired up," Morris said.
"From last weekend's result they'll be very disappointed. They need to keep on winning if they want to be a part of the finals series and we're aware of that.
"They have a young enthusiastic side there, full of exciting players. If we give them some space then they'll cause plenty of headaches."
