Scans have revealed the midfield warrior has suffered a calf strain and is expected to miss at least two to three weeks.
Boyd experienced soreness in his ca;f after the recent practice match against Richmond.
The club's website, westernbulldogsfc.com.au, revealed that Boyd was monitored throughout last week, and after failing to improve, an MRI scan conducted later today revealed the minor strain.
“Although it’s unfortunate that Matthew has suffered an injury on the eve of the season, it will provide some of our talented, emerging midfielders an opportunity to take another step in their development," Bulldogs' General Manager of Football, James Fantasia said.
“Matthew, as always will rehabilitate his injury with the professionalism that we’ve come to know and expect. And we have no doubt he’ll be back as quickly as possible."
Boyd averaged almost 33 possessions a game in 2012, and has been a thorn in Freo's side in recent years, averaging 37 disposals a game over his past four against the team in purple.
