Roger Rogerson
Brownlow Medallist
Great summaryWas at the game yesterday. Obviously disappointed not to get the win. There were obviously areas where we did well other that we struggled in however it is undeniable that goal kicking accuracy was the difference between the two teams. The conditions were perfect for goal kicking. Essendon won't be that accurate for the rest of the season and we won't miss as many gettable goals. That was the ball game. To reinforce it further the stat I follow closely is marks inside 50. If you are moving the ball well as a team this number reflects that. We won that comfortably and if we kicked better, we would have won. Objectively our forward group is far superior to what we had last year - 28 scoring shots. Big tick.
Other than goal kicking the centre bounce clearances was the other obvious contributing factor. Last year we were good in this area, and I expect this issue to be addressed as with the 6-6-6 rule it is crucial to at least break even. If you don't as with the dog’s game this is where the run ons come from and good sides don't let happen very often. We really need Will Day's foot to come good. Having him in the side means the opposition can’t sit on Newk. Also, Nash had a poor day and based on last year he will also improve. Worpel hasn't missed a beat from last year. Finn is a tagger so either tag or VFL. HH would have been preferable as we fumbled alot which he doesn't do.
Importantly our defence did okay - especially with Sicily having a completely ineffective afternoon. We got alot of goals which started from defence and played a big part in the inside 50's stat.
Finally, as noted by everyone of our recruits did really well. Can’t understand anyone criticising Chol yesterday. He should have kicked 4 straight. He needs to build his tank but i think we should swap him and Lewis and both of them will be better for it.