To add to the positive reviews of the game, I want to record one for the coaches.
Yes the players performed, but they performed to a plan which we seem to recognise as a Plan B, and as one that is both exciting and likely lead to successful results as the playing group mature.
The irony is that Dean Cox was a master ruckman, Stevie J a magician forward and Brett Kirk (apart from being an inspiration) was all about the midfield battle. It is the Ruck and Forward line and Clearances that remain the "work in progress".
So, congratulations to Horse for turning the game style around, and utilising his coaches so effectively.
His coaches interview after the Geelong game was another masterclass in positive and and determined comments, with some real enthusiasm for the benefits of the Hub to the young group. And, dare I say it, some praise for the AFL for getting the season to this stage.
I can't understand why nobody seems to think a knee to the head is ok. If it were a bump he would be copping weeks for a deliberate hit to the head. if the AFL is serious about protecting the head, the obvious examples, like yesterday, are clearly in breach of their policy
The way the team played yesterday was exciting. at 3/4 time you could actually see the messages written on the white board for the game plan:
- take the game on
- protect the corridor
- manage the clearance exits
they executed the plan well except for parts of the 3rd qtr when they went back to trying to switch the play in the backline. That game plan generally hasn't ended well for us due to poor skill execution
The jury is out on Ryan Clarke for me.
His last few games have been better, in particular the tagging job he did on Neale.
What frustrates me is when he gets the ball. It all turns to hopelessness at that stage and severely lacks decision making ability.
You only need to look at the last quarter - crucial time of the match, was running down the wing, not much pressure on him, Papley (our only forward at that time) leads, he is ignored and Clarke kicks the ball to 2 Cats defenders. I could accept a kick off the side of the boot but it was a pure kick.
The other great example of his poor decision making is to often give the ball to a team mate who is under more pressure (and a turnover results).
"Fortunately, this is the internet, so knowing nothing is no obstacle to having an opinion!." Beerman 18-07-2017
good game to watch geelong vs the swans
judo at its best
Geelong absorbed our direct play
we took the game on direct
yet..........the cats redirected the push and redirected beautifully when it mattered !
elegant coaching by Scott and elegant absorption by the Cats with counter punch and no match at the siren by us
reminded me of the many 2-1 victories by many a soccer team that controls a game whether behind or in front during the game but nails iit in the final parts to win
"be tough, only when it gets tough"
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