Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs forward Aaron Woods says his team must make the most of their opportunities if they are to make a serious finals charge this season.
The Belmore side were defeated by the Storm 36-18 at Perth's new Optus Stadium in front of almost 39,000 fans.
They did, however, look a different side under new coach Dean Pay compared to the one in 2017 that saw Bulldogs fans regularly vent their frustration at the club's playing style under Des Hasler.
With a revamped line-up featuring Moses Mbye at fulllback, Kieran Foran in the halves and Woods in the forward pack, the Dogs now look a chance to make the eight.
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Woods told Big Sports Breakfast that although it does take time to gel as a new line-up, the Bulldogs still have to make the most of their opportunties.
"I thought we were good in areas," Woods said.
"We had a fair few opportunities over the weekend but we were one pass short or we didn't really execute well and that's what we need to build on in the next month especially.
"On the weekend it was 24-18 and we had a good little shift and we dropped a loose ball and everyone except Addo-Carr, you don't want the ball going to him, he runs 80 metres and changes the game like that.
"They (Melbourne) get a little sniff and they take it with both hands.
"I thought Kieran Foran was outstanding for us, he led us around the park really well and we need to back him up and take our opportunities."
Woods also said he's expecting a fierce battle in the middle against a fired-up Sydney Roosters pack on Friday.
The Roosters forwards were publicly called out after a disappointing performance in their first round defeat against the Tigers.
"I'm sure it's going to be a different Roosters side that comes out this week, they're going to be fired up, ready to go and they'll be hard to handle this Friday night," Woods said.
"They've got that massive, powerful forward pack, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Sio Siua Taukeiaho that lead the charge.
"If Klem (David Klemmer), myself and Jacko (Josh Jackson) get on top of them early, that will really help our side."
The Roosters will host the Bulldogs at Allianz Stadium on Friday at 6pm.
