Out: Tippett, Rohan, McGlynn, McVeigh, Cunningham
In: Naismith, Davis, Hewett, Aliir, Newman (elevated rookie)
Our defenders are doing well defensively, but we don't have any rebound and constantly just kick to a contest, which we often lose. Tired of seeing McVeigh and Laidler looking every which way with no one to kick to. The Giants and Bulldogs have open men everywhere, and options to kick or run the ball out. Bring in Aliir and Newman to give us more height and rebound, also allowing Rampe a bit more freedom to run with the ball. The loss of Rohan will hurt.
McVeigh unlikely to be dropped. He can take McGlynn's spot until Papley is fit. McGlynn and Cunningham both not doing enough to warrant a spot in the senior side. Hard to know what to do with Macca. Maybe he can pop up and kick a goal or 2, like we did with Jude toward the end of his career. I am frankly surprised how quickly McVeigh has dropped off. He's only 31. I thought his fitness would carry him through for another few years.
Towers will probably replace Rohan although reserves form doesn't seem to translate into senior form with Towers. Horse seems determined to make him a senior player after pumping him up all preseason.
I'd give the nod to Naismith over Nanka (if both are fit). It just seems the right time with a tall opposition ruckman. Sam is a good size matchup for Gawn and I think he's just a better all around player than Nanka.
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