Or 'the one where the Eagles Lose to a Team that shouldn't be playing, in a fixture that should never have been scheduled.'
It's always hard to lose. Especially at home. Especially when your season depends on it. Especially when you've lost 4 at home already.
But what I can't stomach, this is no joke, is having to endure losing to a pack of morally bankrupt, cheating, defiant fools. Surely this charade of Essendon being somehow a viable club this season must end. Surely a man who goes on national TV and says "I took a banned substance" can't then play 2 days later. It's making a mockery of the game.
As for Boo-gate, well I booed Jobe. I bloody enjoyed it too. And I'd do it again. He has shown contempt for the football public, as has Essendon, as has the useless, weak-willed AFL.
Then there's the fools in the media who condemned us for booing. Fans boo for all reasons. They boo players that used to be on their team. They boo players that have hurt one of their guys. They even sometimes boo the best players on the other team...just 'cause. No, this booing was far more justified than any of the above scenarios. I don't know Watson, I'm not booing the person. I'm booing the fact that he's playing, that he's been allowed to play after his admission on Monday night.
So to Richo, Darcy and all the rest, how do you justify condemning fans who are merely reacting to an unjust situation, whilst celebrating a man who admitted to taking a banned substance and stubbornly said "I don't feel guilty"? We shouldn't expect any less though, should we? It's still the VFL, always has been, always will be. That includes the media, nearly all former players who will blindly support the current players no matter the circumstances. The fact that they have the collective brain power and independent thought of...erm...an Essendon player recklessly signing a consent form, shouldn't be lost either. Remember Richo is the guy who thinks that there's more space between the goal-posts the lower they are to the ground.
As for Essendon, it seems bizarre to me that Watson, Hird and the rest think that by 'succeeding' on the field, their behaviour off field is somehow made good. Not at all. It merely masks the truth for Bombers fans, who, in all their naivety, don't understand that their team has let them down.
Then there's the AFL. The league that let's an admitted cheat play the next week. Let's a team that at the least has bought the game into disrepute play on.
But my main problem with the AFL is this: Why, in your infinite wisdom, did you schedule a game on a Thursday night? Why did the Eagles have to play the best team the week before, in Victoria, on a Friday Night? Why, do the seemingly untouchable Bombers get to come off a bye to play this Thursday night fiasco? Greed, ratings, money. That's all that matters.
Anyone, who thinks this fixturing inequity didn't effect the game isn't thinking. The game came down to the final minutes and clearly the Bombers were the fresher, the ones with more run in their (needle-marked) legs.
-----
But screw that crap.
Let's talk about us. I merely wanted to put our performance (and the result) in the context above.
Essendon will get theirs and then I'll post a celebratory toast to the vanquished.
We're not good enough. Not tonight, not this season. As I was waiting outside the ground about 5:10, I saw Luke Shuey arriving at the ground. My heart sank. I honestly thought we couldn't win without him, not with the other missing players.
But, to be fair, although it looked very bad very early, we played some very good football after that. We pretty much dominated the next couple of quarters. Our midfield held up very well without Wellingham, Selwood and Shuey. I thought Priddis was outstanding. All over, in fact it was a very solid effort.
However, despite all that I said above, we still should've won. We had chance after chance to push the margin higher in the 3rd quarter. Naitanui missed an easy set shot. Lecras tried a few miracle shots throughout the game. Darling missed a sitter, for some reason running away from the goal, in the last. Our goalkicking again came back to haunt us. Not having Hurn kicking the ball 70 metres, hurt us.
But what really cost us, and this was one of the most frustrating aspects of the game, was the atrocious, abysmal, unforgiveable decision making in the backline. NEVER kick back or sideways unless your teammate is wide open. I don't how many goals they scored after turnovers, but it was significant. Then there was that kick-in in the 3rd quarter. Please just bomb it long if there's nothing on. Don't mess around with short kicks. It was astoundingly poor.
There were a couple of players who were especially bad last night. Waters, like last week, is failing to adjust after his return; too slow in making decisions and bad kicking. Rosa, I think, is struggling mightily. And Sheppard, oh man, there was nothing good about this Sheppard last night.
The effort was there, the intensity was pretty much there. Unfortunately, it's too late in the season for that to count for much.
We're now 6-7. We lost a total of 7 games last season. Whichever way you look at it, whatever the reasons for this record, 2013 has to be considered an abject failure.
Adelaide next week. Then Freo. Then Sydney.
Friday 28 June 2013
Wednesday 26 June 2013
Round 14 Preview: Season on Line as Eagles face Tainted Club on Borrowed Time
Yes, it's do or die this Thursday night at Subiaco. I know I've being saying that pretty much every week since the Port debacle, but this really is IT. Lose another game at home (that would make it 5) and another one against a top 8 team (that would make it 5), one against a genetically modified team (that would make it 1) and we can kiss this season goodbye.
It wouldn't be a loving kiss either. This season has been nothing but a massive jerk to us (and us to it). Debilitating injuries, added to this week with Hurn and Selwood pretty much done, a coach that doesn't know if he has the passion, an indifferent playing group and now...a poorly balanced and blatantly unfair fixture.
It's worth noting that after travelling East to play the Hawks on a Friday night, the Eagles had a mere 6 days to fly home, recover and face the fully rested (although at Windy Hill who knows) Bombers off their bye.
Is there a reason for such stupidity? Is there a reason or any justification for ever having a Thursday night game? Not that it's an excuse. It's just unfortunate.
As for the game, it'll be tough. As tough as an interview by ASADA? Probably not. As tough as being used as a lab-rat by the maniacal Dr D? Nah. As tough as the rhino hide smuggled in from Zimbabwe, doused in Gypsy tears, mixed with elk wisdom and intravenously fed to certain members of the Bomber's coaching staff. Wouldn't think so.
You know I heard (from the voice inside my head) that instead of spraying first gamers with powerade after games, Essendon players actually drenched debutantes with magical formula made from incandescent goat's hoof that was meant to make them run faster. Plus, it's common knowledge that Bombers officials have been secretly acquiring Fletcher's DNA for 7 years and putting it in other players Wheaties to make them live forever. Of course, that's 'Fletcher the 4th's' DNA, as the original retired back in 2002. But his clones continue to prosper.
Then there's Jobe. Jobe the Captain. Jobe the Brownlow medallist. Jobe the self-confessed 'accidental' cheat. The very fact that he's allowed to play in this game is an affront to the league. He also needs to hand his medal back, or the AFL needs to take it back. WADA and ASADA have both made it clear: strict liability on banned substances. The fact that he says "I didn't know" is no excuse. Although in many respects the club and the hierarchy (read James 'Jesus/Saint/amateur chemist enthusiast' Hird) bare more responsibility. I honestly think the Bombers should be stripped of all Premiership points this season.
But I digress. The Bombers, as they stand, so constituted, until the findings of a certain investigation are handed down, have a very strong team. The strongest since probably the early 2000s. It seems they've finally managed to get over their tendency for mid-season slumps. They've grabbed great come-from-behind wins over Freo and Carlton, easily accounted for the Tigers and upset the Pies and Crows. Perhaps stemming from their perception that it's 'us against the world' (when really they should be on the world's side) they've displayed great mental strength over the first 12 weeks. There was the slip up against the Lions, but it happens: see Cats.
No, this aint the Bombers of recent memory. Youngtsers like whatshisface...um...defender guy, the addition of money-bags Goddard and the continuing development of others have been pivotal. Jake Carlyle! That's who I meant. And how about Hibberd? That kid got mighty buff mighty quick didn't he? Some might say unnaturally quickly...but not me.
There's quite a few changes, all expected except for Wilson who has been omitted. Tunbridge makes his debut. Joe Daniher has been left out, which is a shame because that's one Bombers player who probably deserves to be playing, not having been subjected to pharmacological acupuncture last season.
West Coast Eagles
IN: Simon Tunbridge, Mark Hutchings, Brad Sheppard, Ashley Smith
OUT: Blayne Wilson (Omitted), Andrew Embley (Suspension), Shannon Hurn (Ankle), Scott Selwood (thumb)
Essendon FC (R.I.P)
IN: Tom Bellchambers, Courtenay Dempsey
OUT: Joe Daniher (Omitted), Heath Hocking (Calf)
What gives me hope is two-fold. Firstly, it was undoubtedly our best performance last week. Pressure, effort, intensity. It was all there. The losses of Hurn and Selwood hurt, but players must step-in and step-up. No excuses.
Secondly, history. It may be meaningless but it's worth noting. Over our illustrious 26 year history, the Bombers have beaten us twice at Subiaco. That's 2 out of 15. It's an impressive record for us and hopefully it continues. We desperately need to reassert our home ground dominance to save this season.
Because frankly, even though the Bombers are a good team, without this win there's little chance of securing enough games to make the finals.
I'm heading to this one, which makes me think we'll win, but it really is a 50-50 proposition. Let's hope the crowd gives the team the edge and we get the job done.
LET'S GO EAGLES!!!
Monday 24 June 2013
News: Lecras Gives Finger to Free Agency; Selwood, Hurn face long lay-offs
As you've undoubtedly heard by now, Mark Lecras has committed to the club for a further 4 years, essentially meaning he'll be a 1 club player.
For a while there it seemed that he was going to wait until the end of the season to sign something...somewhere.
Then, rather acidly during Friday night's game, I tweeted:
"Lecras might want to sign a contract soon, his value is decreasing every time he takes a set shot."
I'm not saying I inspired him to sign on, but there may be some element of truth to why he signed now. His injury problems over the last couple of seasons have been well documented. Now his form, especially in front of goal, has been nowhere near his former best.
Of course I'm happy that he's staying, but I just hope we see the best of a very talented player.
Now the bad news. Shannon Hurn is out for 9-10 weeks with an ankle injury and Scott Selwood 6-8 weeks with a broken thumb. Hurn is the better player, but due to our dearth of depth in the midfield, Selwood's absence may be felt more.
A tough stretch just got that much tougher, with just 2 days until the must-win Essendon clash.
P.S Embley was offered 1 week.
For a while there it seemed that he was going to wait until the end of the season to sign something...somewhere.
Then, rather acidly during Friday night's game, I tweeted:
"Lecras might want to sign a contract soon, his value is decreasing every time he takes a set shot."
I'm not saying I inspired him to sign on, but there may be some element of truth to why he signed now. His injury problems over the last couple of seasons have been well documented. Now his form, especially in front of goal, has been nowhere near his former best.
Of course I'm happy that he's staying, but I just hope we see the best of a very talented player.
Now the bad news. Shannon Hurn is out for 9-10 weeks with an ankle injury and Scott Selwood 6-8 weeks with a broken thumb. Hurn is the better player, but due to our dearth of depth in the midfield, Selwood's absence may be felt more.
A tough stretch just got that much tougher, with just 2 days until the must-win Essendon clash.
P.S Embley was offered 1 week.
Friday 21 June 2013
Round 13 Recap: There are no Honourable Losses, except for this one.
There's no such thing as honourable losses. It's just something the losers say to make themselves feel better. But, there are exceptions to every rule. This game was one.
Let's put this 20 point loss to the Hawks in context. Not only have we not won a game against a top 8 team, we haven't been competitive. The Hawks aren't just any marginal finals team. They are the premiership favourite. On a 10 game winning streak.
We pushed them from the first bounce until the final siren. For the first time this season, we showed intensity, pressure, power and above all PASSION.
At various times, it looked like the more polished Hawks would totally run away with the game. But, against everything that has gone before, we refused to give in.
Yes, there were still knee-buckling turnovers, still players hopelessly out of form (e.g. Waters, Rosa, Brown) and what looks like a very scary achilles injury to Hurn. But, this was our best performance of the season by a considerable margin.
Although it was very much a team effort, there were standout performances. Kennedy continued to show that he is the leading full forward in the competition. He kicked 5 goals, took 10 grabs and laid 8 tackles. The much vaunted 'Buddy' had 2 goals, 4 frees against, and 33 stupid scowls at the umpires. He also slowed down a red-hot Nic Nat, by 'accidentally' elbowing him in the face. Nic Nat's goal in the first though was thing of legends. Simply astounding. Franklin also hurt Shuey, whilst Hodge clipped Selwood in a typically Hodge tackle (lauded by the salivating fools at the Seven network). Although I'm not a great fan of our midfield; Shuey, Selwood, Gaff and Masten all played very well and with great heart. Gaff in particular, showed off his silky skills, for once breaking free from his tag.
On a sour note, Andrew Embley may have played his final game. He didn't have any influence during the game. Except for the event which will no doubt leave him sidelined for at least a few weeks. It was the action of a frustrated player, a guy past his prime. For all the hand wringing of the commentators, at least he didn't king-hit anyone like a certain ex-full forward. Embley was stupid, Hall was nigh-criminal (nothing nigh about it in reality).
Another source of frustration was the general frailty and vulnerability of the usually stable backline. The Hawks seemed likely to score every time they went near their 50 m line. But, considering the firepower of the Hawks I can't see this becoming a major source of concern for the club.
We're now 6-6. It's still a loss, but one that makes me feel mildly positive about the future. I hope it's not a one off, a brief flicker of hope to be quickly extinguished. But we'll find out very soon, as we host the pharmacologically engineered Bombers (now 100% drug free*) on Thursday night. Play like we did tonight and we'll be every chance to win that game.
*The coaches that is, the players on the other hand...
Let's put this 20 point loss to the Hawks in context. Not only have we not won a game against a top 8 team, we haven't been competitive. The Hawks aren't just any marginal finals team. They are the premiership favourite. On a 10 game winning streak.
We pushed them from the first bounce until the final siren. For the first time this season, we showed intensity, pressure, power and above all PASSION.
At various times, it looked like the more polished Hawks would totally run away with the game. But, against everything that has gone before, we refused to give in.
Yes, there were still knee-buckling turnovers, still players hopelessly out of form (e.g. Waters, Rosa, Brown) and what looks like a very scary achilles injury to Hurn. But, this was our best performance of the season by a considerable margin.
Although it was very much a team effort, there were standout performances. Kennedy continued to show that he is the leading full forward in the competition. He kicked 5 goals, took 10 grabs and laid 8 tackles. The much vaunted 'Buddy' had 2 goals, 4 frees against, and 33 stupid scowls at the umpires. He also slowed down a red-hot Nic Nat, by 'accidentally' elbowing him in the face. Nic Nat's goal in the first though was thing of legends. Simply astounding. Franklin also hurt Shuey, whilst Hodge clipped Selwood in a typically Hodge tackle (lauded by the salivating fools at the Seven network). Although I'm not a great fan of our midfield; Shuey, Selwood, Gaff and Masten all played very well and with great heart. Gaff in particular, showed off his silky skills, for once breaking free from his tag.
On a sour note, Andrew Embley may have played his final game. He didn't have any influence during the game. Except for the event which will no doubt leave him sidelined for at least a few weeks. It was the action of a frustrated player, a guy past his prime. For all the hand wringing of the commentators, at least he didn't king-hit anyone like a certain ex-full forward. Embley was stupid, Hall was nigh-criminal (nothing nigh about it in reality).
Another source of frustration was the general frailty and vulnerability of the usually stable backline. The Hawks seemed likely to score every time they went near their 50 m line. But, considering the firepower of the Hawks I can't see this becoming a major source of concern for the club.
We're now 6-6. It's still a loss, but one that makes me feel mildly positive about the future. I hope it's not a one off, a brief flicker of hope to be quickly extinguished. But we'll find out very soon, as we host the pharmacologically engineered Bombers (now 100% drug free*) on Thursday night. Play like we did tonight and we'll be every chance to win that game.
*The coaches that is, the players on the other hand...
Round 13 Preview: Streaks Must End Here.
Rewind back to Round 2. We'd lost the Derby after a disastrous second half. The Hawks flew over to Perth after yet another disappointing loss to the Cats. It was considered a potential grand final preview. Then the game happened. It was a beat down of epic proportions.
That was the start of a 10 game winning streak for the Hawks. It was the start of an atrocious run for us from which we still haven't recovered.
For us to be any slim, forlorn hope in this one, both streaks must end. I'm going to be honest, I would be shocked if we pulled this off.
We've struggled against the best sides over East even when we were rolling in the past 2 seasons. Right now, we're an extremely mediocre side. Meanwhile, the Hawks are as strong as they ever have been.
By the same token, we'll have no excuses but our own ineptitude if we do get crushed. We're coming off a bye, during which you'd think the coaches would've tried to address our litany of issues. We should be rested, recharged and refocused.
We also have, essentially, our best team available. The big guns absent from the clash against the morally repugnant Saints return; Glass, Waters, Lecras, Kennedy. You don't get four bigger names. Hill's the only notable exclusion, who after playing nearly every game since crossing from the Dogs, misses with a hamstring injury. Cripps, Shephard, Brennan and Hams continue to maintain their status as fringe players, whilst Selwood has an old man's back. It's also good to see McG return, if only because I can use his epic nickname again. He's also a fairly solid and reliable cog in the machine.
In good news, Cyril Rioli doesn't return. So it's only Franklin, Hodge, Mitchell, Burgoyne, Roughead and Lewis to worry about....
Hawthorn
B: Ben Stratton, Brian Lake, Brent Guerra
HB: Grant Birchall, Josh Gibson, Luke Hodge
C: Shane Savage, Sam Mitchell, Bradley Hill
HF: Paul Puopolo, Lance Franklin, Jordan Lewis
F: David Hale, Jarryd Roughead, Luke Breust
Foll: Max Bailey, Brad Sewell, Shaun Burgoyne
Int: Liam Shiels, Taylor Duryea, Jack Gunston, Jonathan Simpkin
Emerg: Kyle Cheney, Xavier Ellis, Matt Spangher
In: S.Savage
Out: I.Smith (corked calf)
West Coast
B: Sam Butler, Darren Glass, Mitchell Brown
HB: Shannon Hurn, Eric Mackenzie, Beau Waters
C: Andrew Gaff, Scott Selwood, Andrew Embley
HF: Luke Shuey, Josh Kennedy, Chris Masten
F: Mark LeCras, Dean Cox, Jack Darling
Foll: Nic Naitanui, Matt Priddis, Daniel Kerr
Int: Blayne Wilson, Patrick McGinnity, Bradd Dalziell, Matt Rosa
Emerg: Brad Sheppard, Ashley Smith, Jacob Brennan
In: D.Glass, B.Waters, M.LeCras, J.Kennedy, B.Dalziell, P.McGinnity
Out: A.Selwood (back), J.Hill (hamstring), A.Hams, J.Brennan, B.Sheppard, J.Cripps
Let's put the result aside though. Although I hate the phrase 'honourable loss', if we play with the intensity, pressure, EFFORT that we did last year and just fall short, it would be a step forward. We have a damn hard run into the finals (which we may/may not be appearing in) but this is the toughest. If we show that our initiative has returned, all is not lost.
But we must show something, anything, or it will be a very long night.
-----
- In other news, part time game winner, full time defensive stalwart, E-Mac has signed on until 2017. We wait on Lecras.
- In other news, the Herald Sun (rag alert!) have posted this ridiculous article, including a picture of NicNat in a Demons guernsey. You could do this exercise with every team, so it's a bit cheap in my mind.
- Apparently we're not panicking over Worsfold's contract. I've said it before, but unless we improve dramatically over the rest of the way, I think we should (and will) part ways.
That was the start of a 10 game winning streak for the Hawks. It was the start of an atrocious run for us from which we still haven't recovered.
For us to be any slim, forlorn hope in this one, both streaks must end. I'm going to be honest, I would be shocked if we pulled this off.
We've struggled against the best sides over East even when we were rolling in the past 2 seasons. Right now, we're an extremely mediocre side. Meanwhile, the Hawks are as strong as they ever have been.
By the same token, we'll have no excuses but our own ineptitude if we do get crushed. We're coming off a bye, during which you'd think the coaches would've tried to address our litany of issues. We should be rested, recharged and refocused.
We also have, essentially, our best team available. The big guns absent from the clash against the morally repugnant Saints return; Glass, Waters, Lecras, Kennedy. You don't get four bigger names. Hill's the only notable exclusion, who after playing nearly every game since crossing from the Dogs, misses with a hamstring injury. Cripps, Shephard, Brennan and Hams continue to maintain their status as fringe players, whilst Selwood has an old man's back. It's also good to see McG return, if only because I can use his epic nickname again. He's also a fairly solid and reliable cog in the machine.
In good news, Cyril Rioli doesn't return. So it's only Franklin, Hodge, Mitchell, Burgoyne, Roughead and Lewis to worry about....
Hawthorn
B: Ben Stratton, Brian Lake, Brent Guerra
HB: Grant Birchall, Josh Gibson, Luke Hodge
C: Shane Savage, Sam Mitchell, Bradley Hill
HF: Paul Puopolo, Lance Franklin, Jordan Lewis
F: David Hale, Jarryd Roughead, Luke Breust
Foll: Max Bailey, Brad Sewell, Shaun Burgoyne
Int: Liam Shiels, Taylor Duryea, Jack Gunston, Jonathan Simpkin
Emerg: Kyle Cheney, Xavier Ellis, Matt Spangher
In: S.Savage
Out: I.Smith (corked calf)
West Coast
B: Sam Butler, Darren Glass, Mitchell Brown
HB: Shannon Hurn, Eric Mackenzie, Beau Waters
C: Andrew Gaff, Scott Selwood, Andrew Embley
HF: Luke Shuey, Josh Kennedy, Chris Masten
F: Mark LeCras, Dean Cox, Jack Darling
Foll: Nic Naitanui, Matt Priddis, Daniel Kerr
Int: Blayne Wilson, Patrick McGinnity, Bradd Dalziell, Matt Rosa
Emerg: Brad Sheppard, Ashley Smith, Jacob Brennan
In: D.Glass, B.Waters, M.LeCras, J.Kennedy, B.Dalziell, P.McGinnity
Out: A.Selwood (back), J.Hill (hamstring), A.Hams, J.Brennan, B.Sheppard, J.Cripps
Let's put the result aside though. Although I hate the phrase 'honourable loss', if we play with the intensity, pressure, EFFORT that we did last year and just fall short, it would be a step forward. We have a damn hard run into the finals (which we may/may not be appearing in) but this is the toughest. If we show that our initiative has returned, all is not lost.
But we must show something, anything, or it will be a very long night.
-----
- In other news, part time game winner, full time defensive stalwart, E-Mac has signed on until 2017. We wait on Lecras.
- In other news, the Herald Sun (rag alert!) have posted this ridiculous article, including a picture of NicNat in a Demons guernsey. You could do this exercise with every team, so it's a bit cheap in my mind.
- Apparently we're not panicking over Worsfold's contract. I've said it before, but unless we improve dramatically over the rest of the way, I think we should (and will) part ways.
Friday 14 June 2013
Mid-Season Musings: The Season so Far...
3 months ago when I was writing the previews for the season (in my usual painstakingly slow manner) I really wasn't certain where we were as a club.
I did make an amusing reference to Tom Swift: "His hair had a mind of its own as, unfortunately, did his right foot."
However, I also made some rough predictions on our record, 16-6 and us making the prelim.
I wasn't as stupid as the experts though, most of who thought we'd finish top and make the GF. My fears over the inadequacy of our midfield have been found to be true. Yet this has been coupled with the extremely surprising lack of intensity which means we have floundered against decent opposition.
6-5 at the break and barely inside the 8 (in fact we won't be after this week).
But let's look back at some of the mid-season defining games. I hate to quote myself...well that's a lie, but here we go:
Round 1- Dockers by 28 (A)
Preview: "Honestly, anything could happen in this one. In my mind they're both finals bound teams. I would have little doubt that a full strength Eagles team with Kerr, Wellingham and Naitanui would be strong favourites. But with those omissions, the teams appear fairly even. Regardless, I think the Eagles strength up forward and back will ultimately allow us to kick more goals and escape with a narrow victory."
Recap: "I'm honestly not that concerned. Disappointed sure. But the season is young and there's much to look forward to (poor naive bastard) Perhaps something to keep our eyes on, is our inability to put in a full 4 quarter performance."
Round 2- Hawks by 50 (H)
Preview: "Massive game, I'm attending (yay!) and I'll think we may just win, by, say 11 points."
Recap: "We're missing some key players. But the players that are there need to be less...crap....It's a terrible start to the season. We can recover as the fixture evens out over the next couple of months. But with Naitanui out indefinitely, the midfield in desperate need of reinforcements and a forward line lacking in pressure, a premiership looks a long way away."
Round 4- Carlton by 24 (H)
Preview: "So they'll be desperate. We need to be desperate too and I expect that we will be. We were embarrassed in our home opener against the Hawks. It won't happen again."
...SPOILER ALERT- It happened again...
Recap: "So 1-3. I'm feeling incredibly pessimistic about this side right now. That performance was worse than against the Hawks. We play undefeated (!) Port...[and] they've got spirit... All we have is a season teetering on the edge of oblivion"
Round 5: redacted from record.
Round 5: Port by 5 (A) aka the game that broke my heart
Preview: "But they're not world beaters. If we play with the intensity we did last year, eradicate our kicking errors and locate the goals we should have too much power for the...erm...Power. It's a big 'if' I know. We will lose if we play like we did last week. You have to believe that won't happen. You have to believe that in between writing love letters to milestone players,* the coach has said something, done something to get our team back on track."
Recap: "Worst loss ever? Probably. Most embarrassing loss ever? Certainly. Season over? You betcha...Because although the coach may be forced to live in a fantasy world where a flag is still achievable, I think we fans know this season is dead..Where to now? There's no premiership window for this club. I never was truly convinced there was. Our midfield of the future is mediocre."
Round 10: Tigers by 41 (H)
Preview: "We've won 4 in a row to claw back to 5-4. I agree with the coach that we must win this and next week's clash against the woeful Saints to have any slim, distant chance of winning a premiership. But I think these next 2 weeks are more about boosting our top 8 chances. I've already written about our difficult second half of the season. It's after the bye where we will see if we're good enough to challenge for a premiership."
Recap: "The fact is that the team is sliding away and Worsfold has been pretty passive. No real changes, very much a wait and see approach. I don't want to be too harsh because he's a club legend, but by any objective measurement, unless we pull off a comeback of proportions never seen before in the AFL, then it has to be his final season with the club. Because either what he's saying isn't right or the players aren't listening"
Round 11: Eagles by 4 (A)
Preview: "You'd expect them to be pumped up for this one. They'll think they have a chance, especially in Melbourne. But, despite Monday's misery and our horrible losses at the start of the season, we have beaten every bad team we have faced. Well, there was the Port debacle, but they looked half-decent at that stage. Regardless of our lack of form, pace, desire, intensity or pressure, we should prevail."
Recap: "In my mind it was the very first time this year that the team really dug deep, backs against the wall, undermanned and pulled out the 'W'. We started oh so poorly. 4 goals to zip. I thought the worse. I remembered this loss. But we steadied, showed resolve, stuck around and eventually, as time ebbed away, stole a win...Now, onto the negatives. The game saw an unwelcome continuation of all of the problems which have plagued our team throughout the year...But most of all, and here's the scary part, the Saints are 2-9."
--------
Some might say the heart-stopping win against the Roos was worthy of note. But personally, I think that it was more of a reflection of North's frailties than any great resolve on our behalf.
No, we're a team with huge issues relating to the very basics of the game; poor foot skills, abysmal work-rate, real lack of pressure and costly goal-kicking.
Can they sort it out in the space of 1.5 weeks? Only time will tell. But I do know this: if we don't improve, we won't make the finals. Hell, we would be lucky to win 2-3 games.
But besides this atrocious run of games, there's plenty else to watch for the remainder of the season:
John Worsfold's Future
I can't help but think it's Worsfold's last season for the club. It wouldn't be a problem if we were playing well. But the fact is, his reluctance to answer a simple question about whether he desires to coach RIGHT NOW surely must impact the mentality of an already struggling team. Of course, there will be no hard feelings which ever way this season finishes, but if it continues as stands there will be a bitter after taste to the Worsfold era.
Mark Lecras' Future
Yes, the Eagles have a few high profile free agents, but most of them aren't going anywhere (except for maybe retirement):
Dean Cox (unrestricted)
Andrew Embley (unrestricted)
Darren Glass (unrestricted)
Mark LeCras (restricted)
Mark Nicoski (unrestricted)
Adam Selwood (unrestricted)
No, its' the future of Lecras which has others interested. I obviously want him to stay, despite his struggles this season. But, if he did leave, I can imagine a firestorm of hate, disdain, contempt, loathing for what will only be a money-driven move. Sure, most of that firestorm will emanate from this blog, but I wouldn't be alone. It wouldn't be like the Judd homecoming. We still harbour some resentment, but there was an understanding that Victoria is where his heart is. We also got his best years plus JJK in return. Lecras is in his prime, is West Australian and plays for a great club. There is no rationale but money.
Greats to Retire?
I think Cox and Glass will play on. Both are still performing at a very high level and are very much needed. But Embley and Selwood aren't in the same position. For some time now they have been struggling with injuries, form or both. I, for one, don't think either is in our best 22. If they do call it a day, I hope they announce it before the end of the year so they can have a proper send-off.
Give the Recruits a Chance
Regardless of our finals chances, it would be nice to see some more of the recruits of the past couple of seasons. Brad Dick has to play at some stage, otherwise it doesn't make sense to keep him on our list. Then there's Jamie Bennell and Cale Morton. If they're fit give them a chance. Finally, when Wellingham returns from his most recent injury, he must deliver. He was given plenty of money, before he self-sabotaged his season with trampoline antics. Time to deliver and repay the faith.
------
Quite a second-half of the season. We play Hawthorn next Friday night at the dome. I'm terrified. Absolutely terrified.
I did make an amusing reference to Tom Swift: "His hair had a mind of its own as, unfortunately, did his right foot."
However, I also made some rough predictions on our record, 16-6 and us making the prelim.
I wasn't as stupid as the experts though, most of who thought we'd finish top and make the GF. My fears over the inadequacy of our midfield have been found to be true. Yet this has been coupled with the extremely surprising lack of intensity which means we have floundered against decent opposition.
6-5 at the break and barely inside the 8 (in fact we won't be after this week).
But let's look back at some of the mid-season defining games. I hate to quote myself...well that's a lie, but here we go:
Round 1- Dockers by 28 (A)
Preview: "Honestly, anything could happen in this one. In my mind they're both finals bound teams. I would have little doubt that a full strength Eagles team with Kerr, Wellingham and Naitanui would be strong favourites. But with those omissions, the teams appear fairly even. Regardless, I think the Eagles strength up forward and back will ultimately allow us to kick more goals and escape with a narrow victory."
Recap: "I'm honestly not that concerned. Disappointed sure. But the season is young and there's much to look forward to (poor naive bastard) Perhaps something to keep our eyes on, is our inability to put in a full 4 quarter performance."
Round 2- Hawks by 50 (H)
Preview: "Massive game, I'm attending (yay!) and I'll think we may just win, by, say 11 points."
Recap: "We're missing some key players. But the players that are there need to be less...crap....It's a terrible start to the season. We can recover as the fixture evens out over the next couple of months. But with Naitanui out indefinitely, the midfield in desperate need of reinforcements and a forward line lacking in pressure, a premiership looks a long way away."
Round 4- Carlton by 24 (H)
Preview: "So they'll be desperate. We need to be desperate too and I expect that we will be. We were embarrassed in our home opener against the Hawks. It won't happen again."
...SPOILER ALERT- It happened again...
Recap: "So 1-3. I'm feeling incredibly pessimistic about this side right now. That performance was worse than against the Hawks. We play undefeated (!) Port...[and] they've got spirit... All we have is a season teetering on the edge of oblivion"
Round 5: Port by 5 (A) aka the game that broke my heart
Preview: "But they're not world beaters. If we play with the intensity we did last year, eradicate our kicking errors and locate the goals we should have too much power for the...erm...Power. It's a big 'if' I know. We will lose if we play like we did last week. You have to believe that won't happen. You have to believe that in between writing love letters to milestone players,* the coach has said something, done something to get our team back on track."
Recap: "Worst loss ever? Probably. Most embarrassing loss ever? Certainly. Season over? You betcha...Because although the coach may be forced to live in a fantasy world where a flag is still achievable, I think we fans know this season is dead..Where to now? There's no premiership window for this club. I never was truly convinced there was. Our midfield of the future is mediocre."
Round 10: Tigers by 41 (H)
Preview: "We've won 4 in a row to claw back to 5-4. I agree with the coach that we must win this and next week's clash against the woeful Saints to have any slim, distant chance of winning a premiership. But I think these next 2 weeks are more about boosting our top 8 chances. I've already written about our difficult second half of the season. It's after the bye where we will see if we're good enough to challenge for a premiership."
Recap: "The fact is that the team is sliding away and Worsfold has been pretty passive. No real changes, very much a wait and see approach. I don't want to be too harsh because he's a club legend, but by any objective measurement, unless we pull off a comeback of proportions never seen before in the AFL, then it has to be his final season with the club. Because either what he's saying isn't right or the players aren't listening"
Round 11: Eagles by 4 (A)
Preview: "You'd expect them to be pumped up for this one. They'll think they have a chance, especially in Melbourne. But, despite Monday's misery and our horrible losses at the start of the season, we have beaten every bad team we have faced. Well, there was the Port debacle, but they looked half-decent at that stage. Regardless of our lack of form, pace, desire, intensity or pressure, we should prevail."
Recap: "In my mind it was the very first time this year that the team really dug deep, backs against the wall, undermanned and pulled out the 'W'. We started oh so poorly. 4 goals to zip. I thought the worse. I remembered this loss. But we steadied, showed resolve, stuck around and eventually, as time ebbed away, stole a win...Now, onto the negatives. The game saw an unwelcome continuation of all of the problems which have plagued our team throughout the year...But most of all, and here's the scary part, the Saints are 2-9."
--------
Some might say the heart-stopping win against the Roos was worthy of note. But personally, I think that it was more of a reflection of North's frailties than any great resolve on our behalf.
No, we're a team with huge issues relating to the very basics of the game; poor foot skills, abysmal work-rate, real lack of pressure and costly goal-kicking.
Can they sort it out in the space of 1.5 weeks? Only time will tell. But I do know this: if we don't improve, we won't make the finals. Hell, we would be lucky to win 2-3 games.
 |
| oh man...so ugly and not just the pixelation |
But besides this atrocious run of games, there's plenty else to watch for the remainder of the season:
John Worsfold's Future
I can't help but think it's Worsfold's last season for the club. It wouldn't be a problem if we were playing well. But the fact is, his reluctance to answer a simple question about whether he desires to coach RIGHT NOW surely must impact the mentality of an already struggling team. Of course, there will be no hard feelings which ever way this season finishes, but if it continues as stands there will be a bitter after taste to the Worsfold era.
Mark Lecras' Future
Yes, the Eagles have a few high profile free agents, but most of them aren't going anywhere (except for maybe retirement):
Dean Cox (unrestricted)
Andrew Embley (unrestricted)
Darren Glass (unrestricted)
Mark LeCras (restricted)
Mark Nicoski (unrestricted)
Adam Selwood (unrestricted)
No, its' the future of Lecras which has others interested. I obviously want him to stay, despite his struggles this season. But, if he did leave, I can imagine a firestorm of hate, disdain, contempt, loathing for what will only be a money-driven move. Sure, most of that firestorm will emanate from this blog, but I wouldn't be alone. It wouldn't be like the Judd homecoming. We still harbour some resentment, but there was an understanding that Victoria is where his heart is. We also got his best years plus JJK in return. Lecras is in his prime, is West Australian and plays for a great club. There is no rationale but money.
Greats to Retire?
I think Cox and Glass will play on. Both are still performing at a very high level and are very much needed. But Embley and Selwood aren't in the same position. For some time now they have been struggling with injuries, form or both. I, for one, don't think either is in our best 22. If they do call it a day, I hope they announce it before the end of the year so they can have a proper send-off.
Give the Recruits a Chance
Regardless of our finals chances, it would be nice to see some more of the recruits of the past couple of seasons. Brad Dick has to play at some stage, otherwise it doesn't make sense to keep him on our list. Then there's Jamie Bennell and Cale Morton. If they're fit give them a chance. Finally, when Wellingham returns from his most recent injury, he must deliver. He was given plenty of money, before he self-sabotaged his season with trampoline antics. Time to deliver and repay the faith.
------
Quite a second-half of the season. We play Hawthorn next Friday night at the dome. I'm terrified. Absolutely terrified.
Tuesday 11 June 2013
Round 11 Recap: Eagles still Alive as Maister-Bowl heads West
There is a pulse. It's weak; the Doctors are in the corner shaking their heads with solemnity. Outside the bedside window a Hawk menacingly circles the hospital, whilst a Bomber flies overhead carrying a cargo mostly consisting of suspicious looking pharmaceuticals.
But we are ALIVE! By THAT much. Let's start with the positives, shall we?
In my mind it was the very first time this year that the team really dug deep, backs against the wall, undermanned and pulled out the 'W'. We started oh so poorly. 4 goals to zip. I thought the worse. I remembered this loss. But we steadied, showed resolve, stuck around and eventually, as time ebbed away, stole a win.
I thought Blayne Wilson had a very impressive debut. He showed poise under pressure, marked well and displayed good kicking skills. E-Mac had a cameo down forward, kicking a gem from outside 50 plus, of course, the winner after Maister tripped over. Darling kicked 3, whilst Priddis chipped in with a vital 2 goals in the last quarter. I thought Embley also showed some form up forward.
A hard-fought, extremely difficult and well-deserved win. Anyone who tries to argue that umpiring gave us the win are fools. Fools or Victorians.
Now, onto the negatives. The game saw an unwelcome continuation of all of the problems which have plagued our team throughout the year. We started the game lethargically, 4 goals to zip. We turned the ball over ad-nauseum to the extent that Scott Selwood ruined a fast break by directly handballing the ball to a Saint. It took the entire game to claim the lead.
But most of all, and here's the scary part, the Saints are 2-9. They are probably the 3rd worst team. I know they've put in some good performances. But I'm extremely concerned that in 2 weeks time, at the same venue, against the Hawks, that we will lose by 10 goals. Not to mention all the tough games following that potential nightmare.
It's the bye now though. Let's hope the team can improve and quickly.
I'll probably post a mid-season recap/preview over the weekend. It may be extremely painful and scary but I'll soldier on.
But we are ALIVE! By THAT much. Let's start with the positives, shall we?
In my mind it was the very first time this year that the team really dug deep, backs against the wall, undermanned and pulled out the 'W'. We started oh so poorly. 4 goals to zip. I thought the worse. I remembered this loss. But we steadied, showed resolve, stuck around and eventually, as time ebbed away, stole a win.
I thought Blayne Wilson had a very impressive debut. He showed poise under pressure, marked well and displayed good kicking skills. E-Mac had a cameo down forward, kicking a gem from outside 50 plus, of course, the winner after Maister tripped over. Darling kicked 3, whilst Priddis chipped in with a vital 2 goals in the last quarter. I thought Embley also showed some form up forward.
A hard-fought, extremely difficult and well-deserved win. Anyone who tries to argue that umpiring gave us the win are fools. Fools or Victorians.
Now, onto the negatives. The game saw an unwelcome continuation of all of the problems which have plagued our team throughout the year. We started the game lethargically, 4 goals to zip. We turned the ball over ad-nauseum to the extent that Scott Selwood ruined a fast break by directly handballing the ball to a Saint. It took the entire game to claim the lead.
But most of all, and here's the scary part, the Saints are 2-9. They are probably the 3rd worst team. I know they've put in some good performances. But I'm extremely concerned that in 2 weeks time, at the same venue, against the Hawks, that we will lose by 10 goals. Not to mention all the tough games following that potential nightmare.
It's the bye now though. Let's hope the team can improve and quickly.
I'll probably post a mid-season recap/preview over the weekend. It may be extremely painful and scary but I'll soldier on.
Sunday 9 June 2013
Round 11 Preview: Nothing to Gain, Plenty to Lose in Maister-Bowl
There's one week until the bye. Usually, we see the bye as an opportunity for players to rest, relax and recharge for the season's final stretch. But this year, it takes on some importance. It will need to be a period in which the coaches and players work out how to play competitive football again.
But that's in a week's time. We face the Saints this week at Etihad. I see the game as one where a lot could go wrong and little right. Even a win will be dismissed by most, probably including me, as another victory against a poor team. By the same token, a loss would be catastrophic. Not just in terms of ladder position, but in terms of confidence for the future.
I don't think we will lose. The Saints are a poor outfit. The coach can't decide whether they're rebuilding, ageing stars are nearing the end and their young players are so-so. Yet they have shown a capacity to be competitive at times. They defeated Carlton. They pushed the Pies and Swans. Their last 2 weeks, however, have stripped their season of any real meaning with losses against the Dogs and Roos.
You'd expect them to be pumped up for this one. They'll think they have a chance, especially in Melbourne. But, despite Monday's misery and our horrible losses at the start of the season, we have beaten every bad team we have faced. Well, there was the Port debacle, but they looked half-decent at that stage. Regardless of our lack of form, pace, desire, intensity or pressure, we should prevail.
It has been a strange week for the club. John Worsfold gave a snarky press conference in which he refused to answer whether he still had the 'desire' to coach. I don't know about you, but I find that rather disturbing. When a team has appeared disinterested for large swathes of a season the last thing you want to see is a non-committal coach. This is beginning to appear like the end of an era...
He was also asked about Lecras' form to which he replied "break your arm and then try and play football". Okay, but should he be playing then if he's still struggling with his arm? He really hasn't offered much at all since returning. But alas! He's been left out of Sunday's game. As has Darren Glass.
St Kilda
B: Dylan Roberton, James Gwilt, Jack Newnes
HB: Sean Dempster, Rhys Stanley, Nathan Wright
C: Jarryn Geary, Nick Dal Santo, Jimmy Webster
HF: Farren Ray, Nick Riewoldt, David Armitage
F: Stephen Milne, Beau Maister, Tom Hickey
Foll: Ben McEvoy, Leigh Montagna, Jack Steven
Int: Trent Dennis-Lane, Sam Dunell, Sebastian Ross, Clinton Jones
In: B.Maister, C.Jones, T.Dennis-Lane, S.Dunell
Out: S.Fisher (foot), J.Ferguson, Arryn Siposs, Ahmed Saad
West Coast
B: Blayne Wilson, Eric Mackenzie, Sam Butler
HB: Shannon Hurn, Mitchell Brown, Matt Rosa
C: Adam Selwood, Scott Selwood, Daniel Kerr
HF: Ashton Hams, Jack Darling, Chris Masten
F: Dean Cox, Josh Kennedy, Josh Hill
Foll: Nic Naitanui, Matt Priddis, Luke Shuey
Int: Brad Sheppard, Andrew Embley, Andrew Gaff, Jacob Brennan
In: A.Hams, J.Brennan, B.Wilson
Out: D.Glass (hip), M.LeCras (arm), Mark Hutchings
Blayne Wilson will make his debut. Needless to say, I don't know anything about him. Well, except that he's a human being of the male gender, who uses one of his feet to kick the ball and two hands to mark. Hams and Brennan also return.
Finally, it would be amiss not to mention the fact that this is the Maister-Bowl. We were devastated when the man formerly known as Beau (I literally forgot his former surname).....Wilkes snubbed us for the Saints. Part of the exemplary class of 2008, he played a spell-binding 20 games for the club, kicking a record-haul of 1 goals and contributing to an era which will never be forgotten.
Let's hope the guys can hoist the Maister-Bowl high at the end of the day.
But that's in a week's time. We face the Saints this week at Etihad. I see the game as one where a lot could go wrong and little right. Even a win will be dismissed by most, probably including me, as another victory against a poor team. By the same token, a loss would be catastrophic. Not just in terms of ladder position, but in terms of confidence for the future.
I don't think we will lose. The Saints are a poor outfit. The coach can't decide whether they're rebuilding, ageing stars are nearing the end and their young players are so-so. Yet they have shown a capacity to be competitive at times. They defeated Carlton. They pushed the Pies and Swans. Their last 2 weeks, however, have stripped their season of any real meaning with losses against the Dogs and Roos.
You'd expect them to be pumped up for this one. They'll think they have a chance, especially in Melbourne. But, despite Monday's misery and our horrible losses at the start of the season, we have beaten every bad team we have faced. Well, there was the Port debacle, but they looked half-decent at that stage. Regardless of our lack of form, pace, desire, intensity or pressure, we should prevail.
It has been a strange week for the club. John Worsfold gave a snarky press conference in which he refused to answer whether he still had the 'desire' to coach. I don't know about you, but I find that rather disturbing. When a team has appeared disinterested for large swathes of a season the last thing you want to see is a non-committal coach. This is beginning to appear like the end of an era...
He was also asked about Lecras' form to which he replied "break your arm and then try and play football". Okay, but should he be playing then if he's still struggling with his arm? He really hasn't offered much at all since returning. But alas! He's been left out of Sunday's game. As has Darren Glass.
St Kilda
B: Dylan Roberton, James Gwilt, Jack Newnes
HB: Sean Dempster, Rhys Stanley, Nathan Wright
C: Jarryn Geary, Nick Dal Santo, Jimmy Webster
HF: Farren Ray, Nick Riewoldt, David Armitage
F: Stephen Milne, Beau Maister, Tom Hickey
Foll: Ben McEvoy, Leigh Montagna, Jack Steven
Int: Trent Dennis-Lane, Sam Dunell, Sebastian Ross, Clinton Jones
In: B.Maister, C.Jones, T.Dennis-Lane, S.Dunell
Out: S.Fisher (foot), J.Ferguson, Arryn Siposs, Ahmed Saad
West Coast
B: Blayne Wilson, Eric Mackenzie, Sam Butler
HB: Shannon Hurn, Mitchell Brown, Matt Rosa
C: Adam Selwood, Scott Selwood, Daniel Kerr
HF: Ashton Hams, Jack Darling, Chris Masten
F: Dean Cox, Josh Kennedy, Josh Hill
Foll: Nic Naitanui, Matt Priddis, Luke Shuey
Int: Brad Sheppard, Andrew Embley, Andrew Gaff, Jacob Brennan
In: A.Hams, J.Brennan, B.Wilson
Out: D.Glass (hip), M.LeCras (arm), Mark Hutchings
Blayne Wilson will make his debut. Needless to say, I don't know anything about him. Well, except that he's a human being of the male gender, who uses one of his feet to kick the ball and two hands to mark. Hams and Brennan also return.
Finally, it would be amiss not to mention the fact that this is the Maister-Bowl. We were devastated when the man formerly known as Beau (I literally forgot his former surname).....Wilkes snubbed us for the Saints. Part of the exemplary class of 2008, he played a spell-binding 20 games for the club, kicking a record-haul of 1 goals and contributing to an era which will never be forgotten.
Let's hope the guys can hoist the Maister-Bowl high at the end of the day.
Tuesday 4 June 2013
Round 10 Recap: The Very Definition of Mediocre...in Slow-motion.
It wasn't a 'shock'. Nor was it an 'upset'. Not when you consider our season as a whole. We may have embarrassed minnows like GWS, Melbourne, Brisbane, WB and lucked a win against solid but mentally weak North. But on every occasion that we've been put under pressure, we've folded.
What's worse is that we've been humiliated at home 3 times now. This was the worst as we allowed a team that 'may' make the 8 completely obliterate us.
I have to admit that I wasn't devastated by last night's game. I think I've kind of mentally already given this season away. I was angry after the Carlton loss and savage after the Port meltdown. But when the hearts of your players clearly aren't in it, can fans really be expected to pretend that everything is cool? I think not.
There's two possibilities to why we're 5-5. Firstly, the success of the past 2 seasons was built on a particular style which the league has now found a way to nullify. Plus, maybe the standard of the AFL has improved and we've been swept back to the middle. I'm no expert, nor do I want to be one (they mainly speak crap), but I don't believe this is the case.
No, what seems more probable is that the team just doesn't have the same passion, intensity or hunger that it did. Sure, it may also be a matter of deficiency in the middle of the park. But we're simply being outworked. We're playing in slow-mo.
Who to blame? The players? Yep. They're payed obscene amounts of money. Some don't take it seriously and bounce on trampolines during their spare time (plus also buy a mighty fine pair of specs, judging from what I saw from Welly in the coaches box). Others, who actually play more than 3 games, are content with getting cheap stats, or taking a cool mark here or there. There's no heart, and because this club means so much to so many, it's a massive slap in the face.
I think Kerr said it best:
But, the coach is also in the cross hairs. He may be baffled, but I find that...baffling. This especially:
The fact is that the team is sliding away and Worsfold has been pretty passive. No real changes, very much a wait and see approach.
I don't want to be too harsh because he's a club legend, but by any objective measurement, unless we pull off a comeback of proportions never seen before in the AFL, then it has to be his final season with the club.
Because either what he's saying isn't right or the players aren't listening.
And as the Dockers look better every week, the ticker above this post nearing its end, you have to say we're fast becoming irrelevant.
What's worse is that we've been humiliated at home 3 times now. This was the worst as we allowed a team that 'may' make the 8 completely obliterate us.
I have to admit that I wasn't devastated by last night's game. I think I've kind of mentally already given this season away. I was angry after the Carlton loss and savage after the Port meltdown. But when the hearts of your players clearly aren't in it, can fans really be expected to pretend that everything is cool? I think not.
There's two possibilities to why we're 5-5. Firstly, the success of the past 2 seasons was built on a particular style which the league has now found a way to nullify. Plus, maybe the standard of the AFL has improved and we've been swept back to the middle. I'm no expert, nor do I want to be one (they mainly speak crap), but I don't believe this is the case.
No, what seems more probable is that the team just doesn't have the same passion, intensity or hunger that it did. Sure, it may also be a matter of deficiency in the middle of the park. But we're simply being outworked. We're playing in slow-mo.
Who to blame? The players? Yep. They're payed obscene amounts of money. Some don't take it seriously and bounce on trampolines during their spare time (plus also buy a mighty fine pair of specs, judging from what I saw from Welly in the coaches box). Others, who actually play more than 3 games, are content with getting cheap stats, or taking a cool mark here or there. There's no heart, and because this club means so much to so many, it's a massive slap in the face.
I think Kerr said it best:
"Who cares about finals if we play like that."
But, the coach is also in the cross hairs. He may be baffled, but I find that...baffling. This especially:
"You can put it down as one of those nights but we have got to be better than that."
The fact is that the team is sliding away and Worsfold has been pretty passive. No real changes, very much a wait and see approach.
I don't want to be too harsh because he's a club legend, but by any objective measurement, unless we pull off a comeback of proportions never seen before in the AFL, then it has to be his final season with the club.
Because either what he's saying isn't right or the players aren't listening.
And as the Dockers look better every week, the ticker above this post nearing its end, you have to say we're fast becoming irrelevant.
Monday 3 June 2013
Round 10 Preview: Eagles Heading for 5 in a Row
It's been a long time between games. Over 2 weeks. 16 days to be precise. I know we performed a training clinic last weekend, but in terms of an actual contest it's been a while.
The Tigers should provide that contest. Like us they are 5-4. They've beaten Port, Melbourne, WB, Carlton and St Kilda. They've lost to Freo, Geelong, Essendon and Collingwood. Sound familiar? They've lost every real challenge they have faced, whilst playing convincing football against weaker teams. To be fair, they could have won the Fremantle game. But you don't get points for could have. If you did, then we would be 7-2.
In terms of their team, they're very solid down back. Although I don't think any backline matches up well against our forward line, the Tigers backline is generally fairly good. Maybe a little undersized, but they have a good balance of young and experienced defenders. Up forward, in my mind, they're still overly reliant on the 'man' with a face like a 6 year old and emotional maturity to match.
To be fair he did kick a few goals against us a few years ago, but since then he really hasn't done much at all. Infact, he's probably best known for his impassioned plea for the rights of his people.
The real strength of the Tigers and my biggest concern is the midfield. Cotchin, Deledio and Martin headline a quick, powerful and skilled unit. If they play with flair and confidence they could really stretch us. Yet, nothing they've done in big matches this season suggests they will win. They played a horribly boring, staccato style last week. It's like someone told them the 'Dreamtime' game means you have to send spectators to sleep.
Two senior Eagles return in Selwood and Embley whilst Dalziell and Brennan are omitted. I would've thought Waters would return, but I guess he was actually injured...and not in a 'GWS-injured' sense.
West Coast
B: Eric Mackenzie, Darren Glass, Sam Butler
HB: Shannon Hurn, Mitchell Brown, Matt Rosa
C: Andrew Gaff, Scott Selwood, Daniel Kerr
HF: Mark LeCras, Jack Darling, Chris Masten
F: Dean Cox, Josh Kennedy, Josh Hill
Foll: Nic Naitanui, Matt Priddis, Luke Shuey
Int (from): Patrick McGinnity, Mark Hutchings, Brad Sheppard, Andrew Embley, Bradd Dalziell, Adam Selwood, Jacob Brennan
In: Andrew Embley, Adam Selwood
Out: Dalziell (lack of zeal) Brennan (omitted)
Richmond
B: Steven Morris, Alex Rance, Bachar Houli
HB: Chris Newman, Troy Chaplin, Nick Vlastuin
C: Shaun Grigg, Trent Cotchin, Daniel Jackson
HF: Sam Lonergan, Shane Edwards, Jake King
F: Tyrone Vickery, Jack Riewoldt, Dustin Martin
Foll: Ivan Maric, Brett Deledio, Nathan Foley
Int (from): Aaron Edwards, Matt White, Matthew Arnot, Brad Helbig, Jake Batchelor, Matt Dea, David Astbury
In: Aaron Edwards, Matthew Arnot, Brad Helbig, Matt Dea, David Astbury
Out: Robin Nahas (Omitted), Luke McGuane (Omitted)
We've won 4 in a row to claw back to 5-4. I agree with the coach that we must win this and next week's clash against the woeful Saints to have any slim, distant chance of winning a premiership. But I think these next 2 weeks are more about boosting our top 8 chances. I've already written about our difficult second half of the season. It's after the bye where we will see if we're good enough to challenge for a premiership.
Or to put it another way, win the next 2 and we have a statistical chance to win the premiership. Whether that chance is purely statistical remains to be seen.
But in the meantime, let's hope the team can continue to build confidence and really blow the Tigers away.
The Tigers should provide that contest. Like us they are 5-4. They've beaten Port, Melbourne, WB, Carlton and St Kilda. They've lost to Freo, Geelong, Essendon and Collingwood. Sound familiar? They've lost every real challenge they have faced, whilst playing convincing football against weaker teams. To be fair, they could have won the Fremantle game. But you don't get points for could have. If you did, then we would be 7-2.
In terms of their team, they're very solid down back. Although I don't think any backline matches up well against our forward line, the Tigers backline is generally fairly good. Maybe a little undersized, but they have a good balance of young and experienced defenders. Up forward, in my mind, they're still overly reliant on the 'man' with a face like a 6 year old and emotional maturity to match.
 |
| ..... |
To be fair he did kick a few goals against us a few years ago, but since then he really hasn't done much at all. Infact, he's probably best known for his impassioned plea for the rights of his people.
 |
| Jack "Gingers Have Souls" Riewoldt |
The real strength of the Tigers and my biggest concern is the midfield. Cotchin, Deledio and Martin headline a quick, powerful and skilled unit. If they play with flair and confidence they could really stretch us. Yet, nothing they've done in big matches this season suggests they will win. They played a horribly boring, staccato style last week. It's like someone told them the 'Dreamtime' game means you have to send spectators to sleep.
Two senior Eagles return in Selwood and Embley whilst Dalziell and Brennan are omitted. I would've thought Waters would return, but I guess he was actually injured...and not in a 'GWS-injured' sense.
West Coast
B: Eric Mackenzie, Darren Glass, Sam Butler
HB: Shannon Hurn, Mitchell Brown, Matt Rosa
C: Andrew Gaff, Scott Selwood, Daniel Kerr
HF: Mark LeCras, Jack Darling, Chris Masten
F: Dean Cox, Josh Kennedy, Josh Hill
Foll: Nic Naitanui, Matt Priddis, Luke Shuey
Int (from): Patrick McGinnity, Mark Hutchings, Brad Sheppard, Andrew Embley, Bradd Dalziell, Adam Selwood, Jacob Brennan
In: Andrew Embley, Adam Selwood
Out: Dalziell (lack of zeal) Brennan (omitted)
Richmond
B: Steven Morris, Alex Rance, Bachar Houli
HB: Chris Newman, Troy Chaplin, Nick Vlastuin
C: Shaun Grigg, Trent Cotchin, Daniel Jackson
HF: Sam Lonergan, Shane Edwards, Jake King
F: Tyrone Vickery, Jack Riewoldt, Dustin Martin
Foll: Ivan Maric, Brett Deledio, Nathan Foley
Int (from): Aaron Edwards, Matt White, Matthew Arnot, Brad Helbig, Jake Batchelor, Matt Dea, David Astbury
In: Aaron Edwards, Matthew Arnot, Brad Helbig, Matt Dea, David Astbury
Out: Robin Nahas (Omitted), Luke McGuane (Omitted)
Did you know?
The Eagles have played 37 times against the Tigers, winning 23.
We've won 4 in a row to claw back to 5-4. I agree with the coach that we must win this and next week's clash against the woeful Saints to have any slim, distant chance of winning a premiership. But I think these next 2 weeks are more about boosting our top 8 chances. I've already written about our difficult second half of the season. It's after the bye where we will see if we're good enough to challenge for a premiership.
Or to put it another way, win the next 2 and we have a statistical chance to win the premiership. Whether that chance is purely statistical remains to be seen.
But in the meantime, let's hope the team can continue to build confidence and really blow the Tigers away.
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