We dominated the first half and the final quarter, but a lacklustre third gave the Blues a sniff. Though, credit to the Blues because they looked gone midway through the second quarter. Our goal kicking was truly atrocious, which meant a game that could have been over at half time was still in the balance. Yet, when the game was there to be won in the last, we came up trumps. Part of that may be attributed to Carlton's heavy legs, but that's not our problem. Momentum was on their side and we managed to rest it back and claim the victory. Carlton may pout about free kicks, but they've lost 5 of their last 6 games. Here's an idea: get a forward line, a backline and some cojones. It might help. Plus, how annoying is Ratten? The ugliest cheerleader I've ever seen, that's for sure.
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| Save the Cheerleader, Save the Blues |
The three standouts were S.Selwood, Darling and NicNat. I think the multiple key absences, especially JJK, have really enabled Darling to assert himself as a dominant forward. He came through with a brace of clutch goals in the third. His marking and goal kicking (3 goals last night) may be critical to our forward line getting a winning score. But it's his forward pressure and tackling which are fast becoming his hallmark. In fact, in a critical moment in the third, as the Blues looked to extend their small lead, Darling came from nowhere to tackle and dispossess a Carlton player in one of his 6 tackles. He has come a long way in a short time. I remember thinking he was a little bit weak when the ball was on the ground, but he really has continued to improve. An amazing prospect, indeed.
Scott Selwood had another great game against the Juddas. Although Woosha said it wasn't a hard tag, Judd was kept to a measly 10 possessions (!) whilst Selwood gathered a huge 33 disposals. Judd was visibly agitated towards the end of the game, giving away a free to Cox before the softest 50 in the history of the game. I almost felt sorry for Judd. Yeah, almost.
But the main plaudits have to go to NicNat, who probably had his best game for the club. He has had some stellar performances before, but they've mainly been confined to patches in the game (think Q4 vs Hawthorn 2009).
Last night was essentially a complete game for the big Fijian; 25 possessions (19 contested), 7 tackles and 5 marks. He probably should have had a goal or two as well, but that's being picky. He really is like having an extra guy in the midfield when he's in the ruck, as he has a propensity towards winning clearances off his own hands.
Back on top, with a top of the table clash against Collingwood next week. That will be the true test of our premiership credentials.
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In other news, this is ridiculous. Idiots.
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