Sonny Bill Williams ... set to face the Bulldogs for the first time on Friday night. Source: AAP
The most-anticipated grudge match in recent history is just six days away, with Sydney Roosters prized recruit Sonny Bill Williams to meet his former club Canterbury-Bankstown at Allianz Stadium on Friday night.
And it can be revealed Sydney Roosters power broker Brian Canavan met Bulldogs CEO Todd Greenberg last Thursday to discuss increased security and police with SCG Trust officials.
Since the Roosters won the premiership in 2002 and the Bulldogs beat the tri-colours in the 2004 grand final, the intense feeling between both clubs has developed into one of the game's great modern-day rivalries.
It was further enhanced when the Roosters poached Bulldogs stars Mark O'Meley, Nate Myles and Willie Mason, leading Canterbury supporters to come up with the catch phrase "Bred not bought" in a direct shot at the Bondi Junction club's recruitment philosophy.
But perhaps the most cutting banter from Bulldogs fans this season came in round one at Allianz Stadium during Williams's return game to rugby league against the Rabbitohs.
There, situated in South Sydney's famous Burrow of red and green supporters, was a banner reading "SBW, we haven't forgotten".
Clearly, some Bulldogs supporters are still coming to terms with the way Williams departed Belmore midway through 2008.
Which is why Roosters chief Canavan and Bulldogs CEO Greenberg met last week to share strategies on how best to manage an anticipated crowd in excess of 30,000 fans.
"As a matter of course for big games we have a meeting with the SCG Trust where there are projected crowd and security issues addressed," Canavan said.
"With this game of course there is a great rivalry between the two clubs and we have held discussions with the Bulldogs where they have shared information about some of the things they do for big crowds and big games.
Catch Sonny Bill Williams and the Roosters as they clash with Canberra from 6.30pm (EST) on Sunday night on Fox Sports 1HD
"We want the game to be a wonderful experience and a positive experience for our fans. We were able to learn from the enormous good work the Bulldogs have done over the years.
"Some of the specifics included sending electronic messages to all members of both clubs prior to the game to ensure it's a safe and enjoyable experience.
"There will also be special video messages from some former players on game day."
Bulldogs legend Andrew Ryan and Sydney Roosters icon Brad Fittler will both ram home the message of ensuring the game is enjoyed by all in video messages to be played prior to kickoff.
Perhaps the best measure of how far the Bulldogs are willing to forgive Williams has been outlined by retired skipper Andrew Ryan.
The cornerstone of the Bulldogs in 2008, Ryan was fuming when Williams departed the way he did.
Five years on, Ryan has mellowed and has forgiven his former teammate.
"I'm happy to see him back playing rugby league, he's a great athlete and I hope he remains in the game," Ryan said.
"What happened with the Bulldogs was five years ago now and it's been dealt with, I'm happy to see him back."
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