Bulldogs' loss to Orange Emus last Saturday was the team's first since the heart-breaking 2018 Blowes Clothing Cup grand final defeat, which was also against rivals Emus at Endeavour Oval.

Last Saturday's defeat brought an end to the Bulldogs' eight game winning streak to start the 2019 season.

This Saturday they welcome the Forbes Platypi to Bathurst and Bulldogs will be keen to extend their strong home record at Ashwood Park, a place they haven't lost at since 2017.

Bulldogs coach Dean Oxley will be hoping for a strong start against Forbes on Saturday.

"The last time we played Forbes, we were down at half-time, so we're be looking to start well against Forbes this time round," he said.

"They've got at least four Central West representative players in their side and they have a strong team all round.

"It's going to be another difficult clash because they love to play physical. Certainly the Emus game last week was physical and I'm expecting the same from Forbes."

Bulldogs will be looking to extend its six point lead it has over Emus on top of the ladder, however, the lead was cut after the Orange-based side won last weekend.

A Forbes win is crucial for the visitors, who are in fifth spot, two points outside the top four spots that are allocated for finals.

The two teams clashed at Grinstead Oval last time out, a game difficult game for Bathurst that they eventually won won 24-12.

Oxley said Bulldogs will have the advantage playing on their paddock.

"Forbes always tends to be a fairly close encounter and the win is something we'll have to fight tooth and nail for," he said.

"We're not expecting anything this Saturday, but we're looking to bounce back to winning ways.

"It'll certainly help that the games at home. We haven't lost a game there this year or last as well. We want to make it our fortress.

"We're looking forward to the Bathurst community getting behind the Bulldogs. It's been a wonderful start to the season, but we need to battle through these difficult niggles."

Bulldogs' women side will also be action and will play the Forbes' women side at 1.05pm.

Kick-off is at 3.15pm from Ashwood Park.