I like Stoddart in Neafl. Takes the game on at that level and needs to bring it to the AFL. The same applies to McInerney, Foot and Ling. We really could do with one or two of these guys kicking on as we haven't had a really good running defender since Malceski and Kenneally.
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I suspect there is a combination of factors with Blakey. In the absence of senior tall forwards like Bud and Reid, Blakey would be getting the best defenders playing on him when he goes forward. I also think he's been trying to do too much at times and looks a little cooked. A rest in the twos might do him a world of good. In the meantime, hopefully we get Reid back and McCartin stays in. That way when Blakey comes back in, he plays as a third tall when forward and is released into the guts when needed.
spot on. They can learn the chasing / defensive but Blakey and Taylor were probably the stars of their junior teams and always had offensive roles. You can't turn them into 'gut runners' who can run both ways overnight. They are used to demanding the ball - not chasing it. let them play a more natural role at this stage of their development
We could be without O'Riordan, Hayward and Hewett. I wasn't aware that Hewett injured his back. He has a bulging disc so that's not a short term injury.
Reid and Melican will be available.
I still reckon Blakey is a Half Forward with his speed
Mccartin takes a pack mark and has always had the potential too
Blakey, like Buddy (if only), is unable to run, jump and take a pack mark. Rarely does he even get in position to.
The way we are delivering it forward, Papley is the only one smart enough to react and get on an open lead.
Like all of them, they would do better with some experienced talls down there
I liked Stoddart's game, looked much more confident - unfortunately he continued to pick out Witts which was surprising as he is 7'2" and was wearing bright blue so it's not like he was hiding. Nevertheless, definitely worth persevering with for now.
I suspect given even Longmire was dissing Blakey he is indeed due for a break. Is literally giving us nothing at this point.
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