The Western Bulldogs' Brian Lake is one of the best defenders in the AFL, but coach Rodney Eade admits he can also have an impact in attack.

Lake played a key role in Friday night's four-point win over Melbourne at the MCG, as he snapped a goal to keep his side alive after being sent forward to provide a target.

Ryan Griffen kicked the winner two minutes later as the Bulldogs won 10.10 (70) to 9.12 (66) to earn themselves a 4-3 win-loss record.

With big forwards Barry Hall and Mitch Hahn goalless on a wet and slippery night, Eade sent Lake forward and acknowledged the All-Australian backman could also be effective at the other end of the ground.

"Brian kicked one, had another one (shot) and a couple of kicks that went forward and he gave us a bit of a target there," Eade said.

"... he attacked it with a fair bit of vigour and could have easily had two goals, which is a good effort."

Despite his move coming off, Eade said the Bulldogs' strong finish was more attributable to their increased work rate and intensity.

"The main thing was the players showed a bit of fight, which is great," he said.

"As a team and as a club we've been questioned ... there's been some murmurings and some talk in the media, and certainly the players have got to show that intensity and urgency every week.

"There's no easy games in the competition now ... four points is gold. If you can win it take it and move on to the next week."

The Bulldogs play Sydney in Canberra on Saturday week and will be hopeful of regaining captain Brad Johnson, who missed the win over Melbourne through groin soreness.

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