Opinion Non-Crows AFL 11

Remove this Banner Ad

I don't agree with that in relation to Richmond.

Melbourne's list of All Australian players is as strong as Richmond's and both sides had comparable role players. Each side had strengths in different areas of the ground, and both sides had star players entering their prime.

I think their players in terms of accolades and age was as primed for success as we've seen outside of the actual proven dynasty teams

They didnt have a bloody key forward... look at the successful dynasties of the past 20 years.

Brisbane - Brown / Lynch (and Brawshaw!)
Richmond - Lynch / Riewoldt
Hawthorn - Buddy / Roughie

And then compare the 2022 premiership team of Geelong. They had Hawkins kick 67 and Cameron kick 65 that year.

Goodwin hasn't had a forward over 190cm kick over 32 goals for him since 2018 when McDonald and Hogan both did it.

Pretty tough to win a flag without a dominant key forward (as we felt in 2005/2006).


Melbourne's side post flag has added 6 All Australian jackets (Oliver x1, Gawn x2, Petracca x2, May x1).

Geelong have added 2 All Australian jackets since their flag (Cameron x1, Stewart x1)

I think there's a strong case that Melbourne's side (personnel wise) was primed for more success following their flag than Geelong and yet it's Geelong that have been more successful since (in terms of finals wins).

Melbourne also had the benefit of playing all four of their losing finals at home, one of which was against Carlton, two of which against non-Vic sides. Of course Geelong benefitted playing Port away, but it's not like Melbourne were handed unfavorable matchups

So once again - to go to the original debate (Goodwin) - the difference between a great coach and a not great coach is that Geelong beat Port in a final.

That Melbourne team was good. When that midfield of Gawn, Petracca, Oliver, Brayshaw and Viney was clicking it was damn tough to stop. But also - this Melbourne team was down 23 points 12 minutes into the 3rd quarter of the grand final.
Melbourne went in as $1.70 favs vs Bulldogs who were $2.20. We went into the GF as $1.72 favs against the Tigers who were $2.15.
 

Log in to remove this ad.

Remove this Banner Ad

Opinion Non-Crows AFL 11

Remove this Banner Ad

Back
Top