Speaking exclusively to The Courier at the Rotary Club of Wendouree’s grand final breakfast on Saturday morning, the four-time premiership coach backed Sydney’s experience and strength to get it over the line.

“It’s been a bit of a fairytale ride for the Dogs,” Parkin said.

“But the belief is that Sydney, which most people think are the best starting side, are able to kick away with three or four goals early (they will win).

“What the Western Bulldogs have to do is stay in the game. Whether they kick four or if it’s zero to zero, (they will be a chance).

“Sydney have the physical side to their game. They have bigger and stronger bodies around the ball and probably have more of them.

“You would have thought the experience, strength and inside ability of Sydney will get them the win.

“I’m hoping not, like everyone else, I hope the Western Bulldogs win.”

Parkin featured on a decorated panel featuring triple Victorian Football League premiership coach Gerard FitzGerald and AFL Goldfields commissioner Sue Brown, whose twin sons Mitch (West Coast) and Nathan (Collingwood) are AFL listed.

Ms Brown also backed the Swans, but FitzGerald believes the Dogs will get the job done.

Money raised from the day will be donated to the Male Bag Foundation, supporting prostate cancer research and treatment.

Parkin was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2009. He is a passionate advocate for men’s health and Male Bag ambassador.

Male Bag Foundation donated $60,000, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Wendouree, to Ballarat Health Services earlier this year for a revolutionary, almost pain free, prostate biopsy machine.