STAR recruit Aaron Woods believes Canterbury’s intention to play an ultra-aggressive NRL game under new coach Dean Pay will be a challenge mentally.

But prop Woods has backed the return of the ‘Dogs of war’ style to Canterbury, of which Pay was an exponent in his playing days in the 1980s and 90s.

“It’s a good thing. Even the style he wants us to play suits us front-rowers a lot more,” Woods told reporters on Thursday.

Watch every NRL premiership game live in 2018 on Fox Sports. Sign up here to stream for free on a two week trial >

Round 19

“Especially with Deano, he’s an ex-front-rower so to learn off him and to get guidance in how to play the role is really good.

“He wants to hurt players.”

While the former Wests Tigers captain was confident the Bulldogs forwards would aim up physically, it would not be enough.

“It’s your mindset. It’s a hard thing, backing up each week,” Woods said.

“Rugby league, it’s a lot mental so you’ve got to get that side right first.”

Woods believes Pay has ushered in a new era at the club after struggling on and off the field last year, resulting in the sacking of coach Des Hasler.

“It’s a fresh start for the club. There’s a fair turnaround so it’s a completely different club at the moment,” Woods said.