Yes, I wanted to mention Melican who until now had not received any love on this thread but who did a fine job last night, I thought. Nothing spectacular, just good. Along with Smooch, both had good games on a night when our defence gave up more points that we would like. Macca was one of the more disappointing. It's going to be an ongoing question how long we are willing to trade off Macca's compromised speed and pressure for his on-field general status. At least he uses the ball well when he gets it. We do have a youngish team but I feel like we are less needy of Macca than the Lions are of Hodge. I daresay Macca will have some games where he has more impact and winds back the clock a little but overall I feel doubtful about having him in the team. We can look to Rampe, Reg, Smooch and Mills to step into the breach if he is omitted. They all have enough experience and/or leadership ability to step into these roles and direct play and we're going to have to get used to not having Macca sooner or later. Sooner on the evidence.
Early on I was especially impressed by Hewett being so composed and enterprising. I would like to see a little of that composure rub off on Jones, who could certainly benefit from it. I guess his strengths are different: his passion and mongrel and carry of the ball. It was encouraging to see a few of the younger leaders stepping up (Heeney and Hewett in particular) and being among the bests.
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