Round 4 Recap: Eagles Edge Hawks

It may not have been the most attractive spectacle, but we won. At the end of the day, winning is all that matters. It would have been nice to watch a free-flowing, high scoring display with the most talented players able to show their skills. But a combination of inclement weather and the elite defensive systems which we and the Hawks possess meant it wasn't to be. But as I say, we won. We didn't kick a goal in the first half (the first time since 2004- it was probably Judd's fault) but we won. We're 4-0. They're 2-2.

Despite the result (did I mention that we won? We did!) there were some other positive aspects to the game. One, the weather was terrrible and yet we stayed in the game early. I know it's the same for both sides, but in terms of which team should be better able to cope with poor conditions, it's the birds from the east. It's my understanding that it never stops raining in the Republic of Melbournia. Whilst here, well, rain is nearly as rare as a Dockers premiership...except not so much...because they've never won one (see counter above). We toughed it out. Our tall forward line didn't exactly help matters, but we showed good resolve in adapting.

We also had a Daniel Kerr sighting. He truly was outstanding: 33 possessions, 5 marks plus a goal in the last which was vital to the final result. Hopefully he can build on this performance in games to come. I also thought E-Mac did well on Franklin, whilst Schofield showed great bravery in even participating in the game. Shuey also showed bravery of a different kind in returning to the game after the hit by Lewis. Hill might not have touched the ball much, but he did kick our first goal (in the third quarter!) and set up the second.

Our poise late in the game was critical to the victory. Marks by Cox, E-Mac and Schofield (I think) sealed the deal. Masten also put a great tackle on Osborne, which was definitely holding the ball.

So, still top. I think we're the only legitimate team amongst the 3 undefeated...because I hate the other two. Also, they're...Sydney and Essendon. Enough said.

Richmond next week at the Etihad.

SPOILER ALERT

We will win.