Last time we played Melbourne was Round 8 last season at the MCG, where we defeated the Dees by 29 points. I would be lying if I told you I remember that game, but that's probably because my brain has sought to protect me from remembering the embarrassment of the 2010 season. I do, however, recall Lecras kicking 13(?) against the Bombers at the Dome. That was a pleasant night in an otherwise painful year of disappointment. Blogging of Lecras, he's back. I suppose it's appropriate that during the Easter period a messiah...of sorts has underwent a resurrection...of sorts. It's a rather improbable return for Lecras, given it initially appeared he would miss 6-10 weeks. Regardless, his presence is a huge plus. Just in time to kick another bag against the dons in a couple of weeks.
Moving on. The start to this season has promised much and yet delivered only a 2-2 record. Suffice to say, this game against perennial stragglers Melbourne, at home, is a 'must win' match.
Admittedly, they do have much talent. They also have eclectic players like Jurrah, who could cause our rather rigid backline some problems. Yet, they lack experience and they lack experience winning, especially on the road. Drawing with Sydney at home in round 1 is all well and good. Beating GC by 90 points away is fine and dandy. But I doubt they have the mental resolve to come across to our house, in prime time on a Thursday (really?) night and beat us.
Morover, we should have too much for them, if we play like we did before the premature break. I think our greatest enemy is complacency. But given our record, we can't afford it nor do I believe we fans will see it.
I'm looking to see how Cox bounces back from a sub-par game against the Hawks. It will also be interesting to see how Kerr fares in his 4th game back.
Due to our big forwards, delivery is critical. Their backs seem undersized and vulnerable. If the ball hits the deck, however, we are the team disadvantaged. We really do miss a quality crumbing forward. Where's Brandon Matera when you need him? Oh, that's right...on the Gold Coast.
The teams line up as follows:
WEST COAST
Backs: As.Smith, D.Glass, S.Hurn
Half Backs: S.Butler, E.Mackenzie, S.Selwood
Centreline: A.Embley, M.Priddis, M.Rosa
Half Forwards: L.Shuey, JJ.Kennedy, M.Nicoski
Forwards: M.LeCras, Q.Lynch, J.Darling
Followers: D.Cox, D.Kerr, A.Selwood
Interchange, A.Gaff, Bra.Ebert, P.McGinnity, N.Naitanui
Emergencies: W.Schofield, T.Swift, G.Weedon
In: M.LeCras , As.Smith , P.McGinnity
Out: MJ.Brown (Hand) , B.Dalziell (Omitted) , W.Schofield (Omitted)
MELBOURNE
Backs: J.Frawley, J.Rivers, C.Bartram
Half Backs: J.Grimes, C.Garland, L.Tapscott
Centreline: B.Green, N.Jones, R.Bail
Half Forwards: J.Gysberts, C.Sylvia, A.Davey
Forwards: A.Wonaeamirri, L.Jurrah, J.Watts
Followers: M.Jamar, B.Moloney, J.Trengove
Interchange, J.Bennell, C.Morton, L.Dunn, S.Martin
Emergencies, M.Warnock, R.Petterd, A.Maric
Unchanged
I think we will win this game by 4-5 goals. We should win comfortably, but any win will do. If we maintain our forward pressure and don't turn the ball over (just don't let Ebert, E-Mac kick) we should be fine.
Big game. Big TV audience. Carn Eagles!
Until next time
Misanthropic Eagle
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