Not sure where and when yet, but MCG on Friday night is looking to be favoured.
Sydney is the weakest of the three (or four counting the Bullies) that we could have been up against. It's at the G which suits us more than them, Walsh, Cerra and McGovern have a game under their belts, Cripps and Doc have had their well earned rest and our injury list looks minimal. (Acres might be a worry). We will be far more mentally attuned in two weeks time.
Bring it on!!
I would have thought it's 1st vs 4th on Thursday
2.d vs 3rd on Friday
5th vs 8th on Saturday with 6th vs 7th on Sunday or Saturday night.
I would have thought it's 1st vs 4th on Thursday
2.d vs 3rd on Friday
5th vs 8th on Saturday with 6th vs 7th on Sunday or Saturday night.
AFL wanted the Filth on Thursday and Us on Friday for maximum crowd attendance and tv viewing.
Both teams bring an army.
Sydney is the weakest of the three (or four counting the Bullies) that we could have been up against. It's at the G which suits us more than them, Walsh, Cerra and McGovern have a game under their belts, Cripps and Doc have had their well earned rest and our injury list looks minimal. (Acres might be a worry). We will be far more mentally attuned in two weeks time.
Bring it on!!
Acres will be a big loss, his work rate up and down the ground is phenomenal, he crashes, bashes and breaks tackles easily. A strong mark as well, its not surprise we completely fell away when he was subbed off yesterday.
We just had too many non contributors and nothing to play for. Saying we need to turn that attitude around in 2 weeks is a huger understatement.
Ducks and Drakes over the next week or two, you won't know what is real until the next siren sounds!
Not at all confident about this game. Leaving aside questions about our available / unavailable personnel, the Swans are, from the coach down, a finals proven, battle hardened outfit, hitting form and self belief at the right time.
Anywhere close to the form over that period where we thumped Port, easily beat the Pies, physically overran the Saints and physically matched it with Melbourne, and we win easily. Then on to a Blues v Pies blockbuster week 2.
We really should be playing Adelaide this week.
Will be a tough one imo but I think we'll get home.
Acres will be a big loss, his work rate up and down the ground is phenomenal, he crashes, bashes and breaks tackles easily. A strong mark as well, its not surprise we completely fell away when he was subbed off yesterday.
We just had too many non contributors and nothing to play for. Saying we need to turn that attitude around in 2 weeks is a huger understatement.
Despite his mandatory out of bounds on the full, Acres has been very important all season. I think he’s the player we thought we were getting with Setterfield. Acres has the size and strength, and the willingness to use it, to have an impact at both ends of the ground as well as on his wing.
His shoulder didn’t seem to have dropped so it may not be a broken collarbone. Hopefully, it’s just a stinger.
Vossy was remarkably content in his post game presser. I think that he was happy to get games into Cez and Walsh, pleased that Charlie got the Coleman, encouraged by Harry’s hard work and ecstatic that, Acres aside, we came through unscathed.
Getting the boys up for the Swans shouldn’t be a problem.
A bit annoyed about Toby commenting publically about Weiters potential eye gouge. Maybe trying to help out his mates at the swans. The AFL will certainly look into it now.
The fact that it will help Sydney FC if Weiters is suspended concerns me.
A bit annoyed about Toby commenting publically about Weiters potential eye gouge. Maybe trying to help out his mates at the swans. The AFL will certainly look into it now.
The fact that it will help Sydney FC if Weiters is suspended concerns me.
I reckon Greene's tackle on McGovern was right on the edge of being declared dangerous, and then held on to McGovern for too long IMO with a choke hold around his neck.
Toby just has that persona that craps you - he just comes across as a dick and he always plays on the edge if not over it.
Not at all confident about this game. Leaving aside questions about our available / unavailable personnel, the Swans are, from the coach down, a finals proven, battle hardened outfit, hitting form and self belief at the right time.
Beating them will be proof that we have what it takes to win a pressure game in finals. The players confidence would be sky high after a win here. Beating a side that has been there before will be a decent scalp. Now we just have to find a way to make it happen. I don’t care how and with which players in the side. Surely Voss will know what to say to have our boys ready for this challenge.
Beating them will be proof that we have what it takes to win a pressure game in finals. The players confidence would be sky high after a win here. Beating a side that has been there before will be a decent scalp. Now we just have to find a way to make it happen. I don’t care how and with which players in the side. Surely Voss will know what to say to have our boys ready for this challenge.
I agree..................
if we beat them. The lacklustre effort last night, however people may want to spin it, would give me pause for thought.
Will laugh if Weiters gets a fine and Toby cops a week for a dangerous tackle. It certainly looked dangerous, hence the remonstration from the Carlton players.
Acres would be a huge loss. If that happens, I can see us playing Doc up the ground and possibly on the wing.
I think Motlop comes back in as his form in the last few weeks was very good. Can't see us going with all 4 of him, Durdin, Owies and Fogarty so at least one misses out.
Will laugh if Weiters gets a fine and Toby cops a week for a dangerous tackle. It certainly looked dangerous, hence the remonstration from the Carlton players.
Acres would be a huge loss. If that happens, I can see us playing Doc up the ground and possibly on the wing.
I think Motlop comes back in as his form in the last few weeks was very good. Can't see us going with all 4 of him, Durdin, Owies and Fogarty so at least one misses out.
Weiters and Toby will just get fines, the AFL want star players playing in Finals. Well I'm guessing on Weiters but Toby is a lock.
Durdin out, Motlop in.
Acres will be okay, it's 2 weeks away, just looked like he was unprepared for the knock on the arm and the flex it took, it certainly wasn't enough of a hit to break something.
I'm worried about Harry. Not kicking goals, not taking marks?
He is just good at taking a defender away from Charlie. But if that is his role then it's the role he plays.
I am concerned that Harry's return isn't an automatic bonus for the forward line.
When Harry was out injured our midfield and small forwards seemed to be released from the predictable entry into the forward line of looking for either Harry or Charlie who nearly always led to the flanks. Instead, players went straight down the middle and were prepared to kick for goal from within the fifty metre arc, putting immediate pressure on the opposition defence. Our goals to points scored ratio improved and there was an immediate lift in the performances of Fogarty, Motlop, Martin and Owies.
As an example, in the Collingwood match Cincotta took a mark on the fifty metre arc, just went back and kicked a goal instead of trying to short pass.
My concern is that Harry's return will make it easier for the opposition defence if we return to the predictable method of entry into the forward line.
I am concerned that Harry's return isn't an automatic bonus for the forward line.
When Harry was out injured our midfield and small forwards seemed to be released from the predictable entry into the forward line of looking for either Harry or Charlie who nearly always led to the flanks. Instead, players went straight down the middle and were prepared to kick for goal from within the fifty metre arc, putting immediate pressure on the opposition defence. Our goals to points scored ratio improved and there was an immediate lift in the performances of Fogarty, Motlop, Martin and Owies.
As an example, in the Collingwood match Cincotta took a mark on the fifty metre arc, just went back and kicked a goal instead of trying to short pass.
My concern is that Harry's return will make it easier for the opposition defence if we return to the predictable method of entry into the forward line.
It looked like we went back to kick and hope, just kick it to a contest instead of honoring leads, or even making space and leading.
Luckily the AFL are an entertainment industry and will want more blokes playing than not in finals. Reckon weiters will be fined at worst as he is a relatively clean skin on the tribunal front.
Perhaps a return trip to Ed Curnow's house might be in order, just to remind the boys about how they got on the winning run in the first place.
I'll be gobsmacked if any players get a holiday for the stuff that happened over the weekend, for a final it would be ridiculous to suspend anyone.
Unless of course the MRO is on a kickback from the Tribunal panel looking for a supplementary income, as which time the players will get weeks before being cleared after some serious Harrumphing and other media showboating!
In the meantime if you wish to save yourself much duress, stop listening to the rock-throwing sadists who take shameful joy from report nothing but doom, gloom and despair to Carlton fans.
I agree..................if we beat them. The lacklustre effort last night, however people may want to spin it, would give me pause for thought.
It's not 'spin' if you predict it before the game. :D
I agree..................if we beat them. The lacklustre effort last night, however people may want to spin it, would give me pause for thought.
I'm a bit shocked fans thought the GWS game might go some other way. The moment it made no different to us I'm not sure it was so much a shock as a study in human behaviour.
When it mattered for Charlie we were on, a few vying for a spot in 11 days time played out the full 4-qtrs, some who have particular pride of performance also played 4-qtrs.
Otherwise, I thought the Acres injury compounded the outcome and really put the wind up the bulk of the group, and the majority basically wound down a gear.
That is the psychology of this time of year in dead rubbers, and it can do your head in.
Oddly, in my experience it's going half-ar5ed that increases the likelihood of a bad event happening, or for you to picked off on the fringes like a weak member of a herd.
harry M,to rip the swans apart and prove his worth his due for a big game now
Acres cleared of a fracture so is every chance to play V Syd.
I expect Cripps, Docherty, Pittonett and Motlop to play. If Weitering is suspended then Marchbank will replace him but if he is not then there will be a choice between Marchbank and Cincotta. Motlop will replace Durdin and Docherty will replace Acres and if Pittonett comes in then TDK will go forward and there will be a choice between Fogarty and Cuningham. I think Cottrell will go up to the wing which means there will be a choice between Dow and Hewitt. I think Dow will be the sub.
A number of players are going to miss out who are probably deserving of a game which is both good and unfortunate.
We need to turn up with the right attitude and if we do we should win.
I am concerned that Harry's return isn't an automatic bonus for the forward line.
When Harry was out injured our midfield and small forwards seemed to be released from the predictable entry into the forward line of looking for either Harry or Charlie who nearly always led to the flanks. Instead, players went straight down the middle and were prepared to kick for goal from within the fifty metre arc, putting immediate pressure on the opposition defence. Our goals to points scored ratio improved and there was an immediate lift in the performances of Fogarty, Motlop, Martin and Owies.
As an example, in the Collingwood match Cincotta took a mark on the fifty metre arc, just went back and kicked a goal instead of trying to short pass.
My concern is that Harry's return will make it easier for the opposition defence if we return to the predictable method of entry into the forward line.
I think the form of Owies dictates we look to hit him up on the lead if he is available and likewise Martin is another target if he is one out with an opponent who he can outmark. Harry will get less opportunities but can still be useful in dragging players away from Charlie and being productive up the ground. I wasnt disappointed in his work when played as the second ruck vs GWS mainly for his ability to get involved in general play rather than his ruckwork which was about as good as the opposing novice second ruck in Keefe in which they both cancelled each other out.
Saying all that the Swans are very undersized down back and Id expect Harry to spend his time down forward this week and his big height advantage should have him prominent and in the goals given he should get less attention than Charlie who will probably be double teamed.
I think the form of Owies dictates we look to hit him up on the lead if he is available and likewise Martin is another target if he is one out with an opponent who he can outmark. Harry will get less opportunities but can still be useful in dragging players away from Charlie and being productive up the ground. I wasnt disappointed in his work when played as the second ruck vs GWS mainly for his ability to get involved in general play rather than his ruckwork which was about as good as the opposing novice second ruck in Keefe in which they both cancelled each other out.
Saying all that the Swans are very undersized down back and Id expect Harry to spend his time down forward this week and his big height advantage should have him prominent and in the goals given he should get less attention than Charlie who will probably be double teamed.
I thought Harry showed everyone why he hasn't been used in the ruck, because he is clueless at it. If he is to be used, he needs a lot of work with Kruze if he is to be of any use. Harry's strengths are work rate, getting up the ground clunking marks as an outlet when the game is in the balance and as you say providing space for Charlie. He can get off the chain and score, we need to be patient with him and use him correctly and that's not in the ruck. Being 200+cm doesn't automatically qualify one to be a ruckman.
I think the form of Owies dictates we look to hit him up on the lead if he is available and likewise Martin is another target if he is one out with an opponent who he can outmark. Harry will get less opportunities but can still be useful in dragging players away from Charlie and being productive up the ground. I wasnt disappointed in his work when played as the second ruck vs GWS mainly for his ability to get involved in general play rather than his ruckwork which was about as good as the opposing novice second ruck in Keefe in which they both cancelled each other out.
Saying all that the Swans are very undersized down back and Id expect Harry to spend his time down forward this week and his big height advantage should have him prominent and in the goals given he should get less attention than Charlie who will probably be double teamed.
Tactic vs Swans?
Leave Harry in the goal square. Get Charlie up the ground. Bomb it on Harrys head and ensure you have Owies/Motlop/Martin etc at his feet. Chances are Harry will take more marks than he drops, but i doubt he'll be outmarked.
$3000 fine for Weiters, cleared to play
Tactic vs Swans?
Leave Harry in the goal square. Get Charlie up the ground. Bomb it on Harrys head and ensure you have Owies/Motlop/Martin etc at his feet. Chances are Harry will take more marks than he drops, but i doubt he'll be outmarked.
Dont mind Harry playing from the square as long as Charlie is a way up the ground and both are not flying together.
Harry needs to hold his marks at the MCG given its a bigger ground and defenders from both teams will have more space to work in rebounding the ball and given the Swans lack height they will be looking to punish every dropped mark or intercept they create and run off players like Harry trying to get an advantage...see Nick Blakey.
If we bomb it in F50 we'll be flogged....delivery into F50 has been the second most important factor in turning the year around. The bomb to Harry is an option, but the little blokes must be ready for those crumbs.
Our selections over the coming (hopefully) weeks is going to be interesting. Cincotta, Fogerty, Dow, Fisher, Durdin may not be in our best 22, but if required, have a major advantage over Kennedy, Boyd, even Cowan and Binns......recent, genuine match practice. I just can't see how you could consider Kennedy or Boyd in a final without a decent hit out under their belt. That deplorable effort by the Twos has killed off a number of players' chances of breaking back into the side.
$3000 fine for Weiters, cleared to play
Just as I thought 8)
Our selections over the coming (hopefully) weeks is going to be interesting. Cincotta, Fogerty, Dow, Fisher, Durdin may not be in our best 22, but if required, have a major advantage over Kennedy, Boyd, even Cowan and Binns......recent, genuine match practice. I just can't see how you could consider Kennedy or Boyd in a final without a decent hit out under their belt. That deplorable effort by the Twos has killed off a number of players' chances of breaking back into the side.
Cincotta and Fogs play with Dow sub.
Dow is too good to be sub now - the penny has dropped for him and playing good football
Dow is too good to be sub now - the penny has dropped for him and playing good football
And I think he will only get better.
My guess for our best side week 1 vs Syd
Our selections over the coming (hopefully) weeks is going to be interesting. Cincotta, Fogerty, Dow, Fisher, Durdin may not be in our best 22, but if required, have a major advantage over Kennedy, Boyd, even Cowan and Binns......recent, genuine match practice. I just can't see how you could consider Kennedy or Boyd in a final without a decent hit out under their belt. That deplorable effort by the Twos has killed off a number of players' chances of breaking back into the side.
It is a pity we do not have an alignment with other clubs / leagues where we can put players so they can keep playing for match fitness.
The number one player, for them, we have to shut out of the game is Gulden. I know it unfashionable nowadays but I would have Cottrell put the hardest tag in AFL history on him and completely obliterate his influence. He worries more than anyone else on that team.
The number one player, for them, we have to shut out of the game is Gulden. I know it unfashionable nowadays but I would have Cottrell put the hardest tag in AFL history on him and completely obliterate his influence. He worries more than anyone else on that team.
He must have had his name on the football against Melbourne. I am sure he was treated for leather poisoning.
Dont mind Harry playing from the square as long as Charlie is a way up the ground and both are not flying together.
They'll go back to alternating through the square in the finals, they didn't bother last weekend.
There seems to be a bit of a divide around our performance on the weekend. Some are of the opinion we should have gone hard, with the same intensity we’ve been playing at, and done our best to win the game. Others feel that was the game we needed to just rest a few players regroup, get some games into returning players and try and make it through as injury free as possible.
I’m in the second camp. I think the intensity we’ve been playing with was the reason we needed a game like Sunday night…but there are dangers, and it’s not guaranteed we’ll bounce back against the Swans.
The mental side of football is as critical as the physical side and at this time of the year it has an increased importance. We had a hard physical game against Melbourne. The toll of that carried over to the first half of the Gold Coast game and it took a big effort to come back and win. Our 50 point wins were suddenly 4 point wins. That was a bit of a clue that the pressure and intensity we’d been playing at was taking both a physical and mental toll. With that in mind the approach to the GWS game, with our position secure, was probably the best option.
The danger of course is going away from the entrenched way we’ve been playing. Will the less stressful week have been enough to freshen everyone up. The other issue is, for the majority of our team it will be their first finals experience. It will be another level. I think our game style stacks up but until we see it under the pressure that will come in two weeks, it’s an unknown.
Nick Newman, Adam Saad, Mitch McGovern, George Hewett, Lewis Young, Blake Acres all have played finals. I may have missed someone, but of those only Young is unlikely to play. So, we’re not without finals experience. The team we’re up against will have a little bit more. The team that played Melbourne have just about all played in multiple finals, including Grand Finals. Amartey is about the only player we’ll face without finals experience.
For some of our very best it will be their first finals game and it will be interesting to see how they go under a pressure they’ve not likely encountered before. You look at players like Cripps, Weitering and Curnow and think…these guys are made for these types of games, but we’ll see.
In the games where we played high pressure football it was on the verge of being unsociable.... and I liked it... ALOT.
We need to bring this frenetic, high defensive game against the Swanettes. Plus being at the G with all the space, they won't enjoy too much.
Cannot bomb it to the forward line. We need to lead hard and honor the leads. Take that moment and spot a player.
we cant allow the LIZARD to rebound from defence need to put clamps on him and Gulden is other dangerous player we need to concentrate on
we cant allow the LIZARD to rebound from defence need to put clamps on him and Gulden is other dangerous player we need to concentrate on
Beat me to it. Also Heeney and Papley (if he plays). Papley in particular is a big game player and will thrive playing us week 1.
We play anywhere near the previous 10 weeks we win. Up to us.
Reckon this year is our 1978 before our 1979. In many ways the situation is similar.
The last match vs Sydney we played like crap and still kicked ourselves out of it.
Sydney have been stuttering to the finish line in games, which is very un-sydney like, but we had the unfortunate pleasure of facing a bottom 4 team, that we have traditionally struggled with (St. Kilda, Sydney, GWS and to a lesser extent lately the Bulldogs).
They all have recently had our number one way or another.
Beat me to it. Also Heeney and Papley (if he plays). Papley in particular is a big game player and will thrive playing us week 1.
Heeney has been rubbish in finals and must be due for a good one, reckon Papley will play given it's an elimination final. Agree with Jim it's our game to lose and Charlie and Harry should dine out on the Swans undersized backline imo.
Sydney seriously lucky to be playing finals after Adelaide debacle and then Melbourne physically out-toughed them at SCG.
They are a team not to be under estimated as their ball movement can be devastating but hopefully we can set the tone early were perceived pressure is so high they will get scared of their own shadow.
Heres hoping for some of our stars that need that match fitness battle hardness have a ripping game because if they do - I think the loser out of Collingwood and Melbourne will need to get prepared for a bruising.
Sydney seriously lucky to be playing finals after Adelaide debacle and then Melbourne physically out-toughed them at SCG.
They are a team not to be under estimated as their ball movement can be devastating but hopefully we can set the tone early were perceived pressure is so high they will get scared of their own shadow.
Heres hoping for some of our stars that need that match fitness battle hardness have a ripping game because if they do - I think the loser out of Collingwood and Melbourne will need to get prepared for a bruising.
Beware
Papley is the main threat as i don't rate Heeney and with Buddy out Weitering has any one tall covered but still my main concern is Longmire is a very experienced finals coach and he will like Lyon did a few weeks back want to turn the game in a scrap and i hope we are good enough under finals pressure to be able to find ways around it. These sorts of coaches are used to being the underdog and make life as hard as possible for the attacking team.
Much better for us the game being at G and not Marvel as its that much harder to flood.
Think Charlie and Harry wont have it as easy as many think and defensively the Swans play as a team and get numbers back to block space. Blokes like Martin, Motlop Cunningham and Owies will need to play big games and impact the scoreboard
Also as someone else mentioned need to play a defensive forward on lizard man and also watch Gulden very closely.
Swans wont be a push over and i hope we start well and get a buffer like Cats did to them in the GF as the longer the game gets with them in touch the harder it will be to draw away and i cant cope with a nail biter - not in our first final for 10 years!
I want to win the first final so bad hoping the players are the same!!!
Papley is the main threat as i don't rate Heeney and with Buddy out Weitering has any one tall covered but still my main concern is Longmire is a very experienced finals coach and he will like Lyon did a few weeks back want to turn the game in a scrap and i hope we are good enough under finals pressure to be able to find ways around it. These sorts of coaches are used to being the underdog and make life as hard as possible for the attacking team.
Much better for us the game being at G and not Marvel as its that much harder to flood.
Think Charlie and Harry wont have it as easy as many think and defensively the Swans play as a team and get numbers back to block space. Blokes like Martin, Motlop Cunningham and Owies will need to play big games and impact the scoreboard
Also as someone else mentioned need to play a defensive forward on lizard man and also watch Gulden very closely.
Swans wont be a push over and i hope we start well and get a buffer like Cats did to them in the GF as the longer the game gets with them in touch the harder it will be to draw away and i cant cope with a nail biter - not in our first final for 10 years!
I want to win the first final so bad hoping the players are the same!!!
We have won all sorts of ways recently. Never mattered how sides have played us. St.Kilda couldn't get their hands on the ball in the 2nd half to a point it even shocked Ross Lyon. Then the tough scraps to end all tough scraps we come out on top against the hardest of all in Melbourne. If we are highly committed we win.
We have won all sorts of ways recently. Never mattered how sides have played us. St.Kilda couldn't get their hands on the ball in the 2nd half to a point it even shocked Ross Lyon. Then the tough scraps to end all tough scraps we come out on top against the hardest of all in Melbourne. If we are highly committed we win.
No doubt, but if we play like Sunday again, we will lose. You will see a different Sydney in finals.
No doubt, but if we play like Sunday again, we will lose. You will see a different Sydney in finals.
Cue was in the rack after Charlie got his Coleman. No chance we were going close to 100% Sunday. Just ignore that one. All it did was give a few players a few kms in their legs.
We can give Sydney the same physical hammering around the ball Geelong gave them last year.
Everyone manage to get their tickets? I did, took 40 mins online to get through through and then the ticketing threw me so also we have level 2 membership, we are up on top level. Just happy to be there tho, cannot wait!
Cue was in the rack after Charlie got his Coleman. No chance we were going close to 100% Sunday. Just ignore that one. All it did was give a few players a few kms in their legs.
We can give Sydney the same physical hammering around the ball Geelong gave them last year.
Yes, and Vossy was remarkably relaxed after the game, although he was a little unhappy with some aspects. I think that the GWS game released the pressure valve and we're about to start afresh. The boys will be working flat out to correct the blemishes from our last two games and we'll be back to our ruthless, brutal footy against the Swans.
I suspect that Longmire has a hell of a lot more to occupy his mind than Vossy does.
Yes, and Vossy was remarkably relaxed after the game, although he was a little unhappy with some aspects. I think that the GWS game released the pressure valve and we're about to start afresh. The boys will be working flat out to correct the blemishes from our last two games and we'll be back to our ruthless, brutal footy against the Swans.
I suspect that Longmire has a hell of a lot more to occupy his mind than Vossy does.
I cant say I share your confidence. Swans finals experience will cause us headaches.
I cant say I share your confidence. Swans finals experience will cause us headaches.
Yes agree.
Everyone manage to get their tickets? I did, took 40 mins online to get through through and then the ticketing threw me so also we have level 2 membership, we are up on top level. Just happy to be there tho, cannot wait!
Been hanging on the ticketek site for 45min. Still can't get through
:-X
I cant say I share your confidence. Swans finals experience will cause us headaches.
Our recent games against Port, Collingwood, Melbourne and St Kilda had been more finals-like in terms of intensity and crowds that many recent finals ... and we now have a core group of players with finals experience.
If we play our brand of footy, the Swans will have no answers.
The approach to the GWS game was fairly predictable, as was the result.
This game is so much less certain.
Because we're in uncharted territory.
A territory our rivals are more than familiar with.
We'll need to be prepared.
Will we be ready for finals pressure?
The opposition will know exactly what it's all about.
Who'll stand up?
Will some be found wanting?
Will just the making of finals be enough...and will we find it difficult to progress?
The effort to get there has been a great achievement...but despite the words that the job is not done, it's quite possible that the players haven't thought much past that goal...and there may be a let down?
On ability and effort in the second half of the season we should be favoured.
But take nothing for granted.
Everyone manage to get their tickets? I did, took 40 mins online to get through through and then the ticketing threw me so also we have level 2 membership, we are up on top level. Just happy to be there tho, cannot wait!
I had a few nervous moments when 10am ticked over, had the recurring 10 second refresh with no action for a couple of minutes. Then got through and it was plain sailing from there. Cat 1 level 2, happy days. All up about 5 or 6 mins.
But take nothing for granted as finals are a different ball game.
EFA ;D
Been hanging on the ticketek site for 45min. Still can't get through
:-X
Through at last! Phew1
I had a few nervous moments when 10am ticked over, had the recurring 10 second refresh with no action for a couple of minutes. Then got through and it was plain sailing from there. Cat 1 level 2, happy days. All up about 5 or 6 mins.
Good work...enjoy
I just get the impression, reading around on social media, the scammers are out in force. You would want to be careful trying to acquire tickets through anything other than legitimate avenues.
I had a few nervous moments when 10am ticked over, had the recurring 10 second refresh with no action for a couple of minutes. Then got through and it was plain sailing from there. Cat 1 level 2, happy days. All up about 5 or 6 mins.
I had the same experience.
Got on at 10:01.
Waiting for maybe 10 minutes
Tickets all sorted by 1015.
7 rows back from the fence in the pocket. Hoping to get a good view of Charlie dominating for the little one.
I had a few nervous moments when 10am ticked over, had the recurring 10 second refresh with no action for a couple of minutes. Then got through and it was plain sailing from there. Cat 1 level 2, happy days. All up about 5 or 6 mins.
Excited to say I’ll be attending my first game in MCC members stand 8) rarely get to go as from interstate so hoping we can pull out a win.
Well that was an interesting experience... getting my tickets to next Friday's game. Have not done this before.
Took ages to finally get through. Then when I eventually did (about 40 minutes) I took a risk and rejected the first tickets (in the rafters) so kept trying again, and again, and again. Paid off in the end.
We should account for the Swans comfortably imo.....No Franklin, banged up Papley if he plays, Hickey on his last legs retiring and a very undersized and underwhelming backline. Heeney is a poor finals performer and for me its a case of shutting down a couple of their star onballers in Gulden and Warner and the rest should fall into place.
No silly matchups or experimental positions ie I dont want inexperienced players like Cincotta on Heeney or Hollands on Gulden, or Harry rucking when they have their best mids in operation and they get some easy clearances.
A player like Gulden needs to be shut down not have one of ours playing off him in a head to head fashion hoping to get more of the ball and win on the stat sheet. A common sense approach to matchups and attention to detail is all that is needed to win this game on the wide open plains of the MCG which should suit us more than the Swans.
Well that was an interesting experience... getting my tickets to next Friday's game. Have not done this before.
Took ages to finally get through. Then when I eventually did (about 40 minutes) I took a risk and rejected the first tickets (in the rafters) so kept trying again, and again, and again. Paid off in the end.
With the online ticketing agents being shambolic with big events, I have been told and read online that rejecting is fraught with danger, I would have taken seats in the toilet if that was they offered.
We should account for the Swans comfortably imo.....No Franklin, banged up Papley if he plays, Hickey on his last legs retiring and a very undersized and underwhelming backline. Heeney is a poor finals performer and for me its a case of shutting down a couple of their star onballers in Gulden and Warner and the rest should fall into place.
No silly matchups or experimental positions ie I dont want inexperienced players like Cincotta on Heeney or Hollands on Gulden, or Harry rucking when they have their best mids in operation and they get some easy clearances.
A player like Gulden needs to be shut down not have one of ours playing off him in a head to head fashion hoping to get more of the ball and win on the stat sheet. A common sense approach to matchups and attention to detail is all that is needed to win this game on the wide open plains of the MCG which should suit us more than the Swans.
Again, l dont share your confidence. They average 89 pts for this year and concede 81 (if you take away their 205 pt game v WC its drops from 89 to 84). We average 84 and concede 74 so I think it will be closer than many think. Chances of "poor finals players" having another stinker are slim IMO. I rate Heeney and believe he will be out to make a mends so take them lightly at our peril. I would be confident against any of the other 6th -8th sides in a final, not Syd thought.
Again, l dont share your confidence. They average 89 pts for this year and concede 81 (if you take away their 205 pt game v WC its drops from 89 to 84). We average 84 and concede 74 so I think it will be closer than many think. Chances of "poor finals players" having another stinker are slim IMO. I rate Heeney and believe he will be out to make a mends so take them lightly at our peril. I would be confident against any of the other 6th -8th sides in a final, not Syd thought.
Agree again. There's plenty of experienced, quality players on their list. They don't need to be stars to make an impact. McClean, Rowbottom, Cunningham, Hayward, Florent, Mills, Blakey, McInerney etc. - these are all solid, bankable AFL players, and not to be taken lightly IMO.
@PaulP and
@Gointocarlton I agree 100%, the Swans are no push over, Blakey and McCartin match up well with Charlie and Harry, Parker and Mills are heavy bodies who do some damage to our midfield ranking on a regular basis. Blakey looks Tilt like but gets the job done.
Add to that, Hickey is playing perhaps the best footy of his career, not surprising given the coaches own credentials.
No team has a certain match up for Heeney.
We will need our mediums and smalls to stand up, but it's not going to be light work. The best way to deal with Gulden and Papley is to make sure they don't get much of the footy.
I think also they would have been pretty embarrassed by their capitulation in last year's GF, and will be looking to regain some respect and self belief. They will give 100% for 4 quarters. In its own way, a massive game for both clubs.
@PaulP and @Gointocarlton I agree 100%, the Swans are no push over, Blakey and McCartin match up well with Charlie and Harry, Parker and Mills are heavy bodies who do some damage to our midfield ranking on a regular basis. Blakey looks Tilt like but gets the job done.
Add to that, Hickey is playing perhaps the best footy of his career, not surprising given the coaches own credentials.
No team has a certain match up for Heeney.
We will need our mediums and smalls to stand up, but it's not going to be light work. The best way to deal with Gulden and Papley is to make sure they don't get much of the footy.
Hickey was beaten by Gawn last week, and flogged by Obrien and Witts in the preceding weeks if thats the best footy of his career then we can probably rest easy.
Blakey and McCartin dont match up well against Charlie and Harry at all imho.....both are undersized and given its at the MCG on a bigger ground wont be getting much help from their teammates.
Id play Newman on Heeney......he might be due like Rohan was for Geelong last season but he has been very ordinary in his previous finals series. I just cant see us losing to the Swans unless they get lucky like they did vs Adelaide and have the goal umpires working for them, the karma bus should dictate they lose after lucking their way in.
With the online ticketing agents being shambolic with big events, I have been told and read online that rejecting is fraught with danger, I would have taken seats in the toilet if that was they offered.
This is basically what I did! We’re up the top Q55! Took me 35 mins to get through and I had my phone going and my work computer and phone got through first! I was too afraid to reject them!!
Swans have played at the G three times this year for 3 losses, kicking only 84, 48 and 75 points. I think they are spooked at the G!!
This is basically what I did! We’re up the top Q55! Took me 35 mins to get through and I had my phone going and my work computer and phone got through first! I was too afraid to reject them!!
Can I ask what type of membership you have MIck?
I continue to be confident in this team and have what it takes to take the big moments when they matter.
This is a strong squad with some very tough hombre's built for September.
If we don't win the Premiership this year I consider that as a failure and so should the club.
I continue to be confident in this team and have what it takes to take the big moments when they matter.
I have to laugh.
10 weeks ago...or probably even 7, there wouldn't be a person alive who would've said that.
With the online ticketing agents being shambolic with big events, I have been told and read online that rejecting is fraught with danger, I would have taken seats in the toilet if that was they offered.
I soon learnt that cancelling does delay things but just repeatedly pressing 'change' after the suggested seats does give you more options if you persist, though you do only have 6 minutes to make up your mind. When the time expired it was back to start all over again, which I did a few times.
I have to laugh.
10 weeks ago...or probably even 7, there wouldn't be a person alive who would've said that.
Nothing more certain in life than change. Though it would seem we actually didn't change much in terms of game plan, just got way better at it once team discipline and leadership stepped up (changed! And it had to). Now to bring that hunting mentality and ruthless persistence to Friday week.
Can I ask what type of membership you have MIck?
Home games only level 2 carltonian I think it’s called - so no reserved seat but seating on level 2 but between 3-5 bays behind the goals.
I have to laugh.
10 weeks ago...or probably even 7, there wouldn't be a person alive who would've said that.
I think the club and supporters were fully aware that 8 game slump was unacceptable.
I continue to be confident in this team and have what it takes to take the big moments when they matter.
This is a strong squad with some very tough hombre's built for September.
If we don't win the Premiership this year I consider that as a failure and so should the club.
Wow, big call. Are you sure you haven't been on your namesake!
Wow, big call. Are you sure you haven't been on your namesake!
Carlton v Melbourne Grand Final.
Brisbane at the Gabba and Melbourne are the only two fixtures I find iffy and this team is more than good enough to get even better.
Home games only level 2 carltonian I think it’s called - so no reserved seat but seating on level 2 but between 3-5 bays behind the goals.
I'm wondering if the higher the membership level the higher the priority in the queue? I have Legends Lounge with reserved seats, costs me a bomb but I was served reasonable quickly. Interestingly my mates with 3 game GA memberships (which were upgraded to 9 Home Game GAs) were in the queue for ages (45min to an hour) and logged on the same time as me. The fact the AFL have seat categories also leads me to think this. Could be wrong...
No chance we will feature in the GF. We played half a season of top shelf footy, finished 5th, and have a list with zero finals experience. The season is already a pass mark in my book, and winning an EF would be an added bonus.
No chance we will feature in the GF. We played half a season of top shelf footy, finished 5th, and have a list with zero finals experience. The season is already a pass mark in my book, and winning an EF would be an added bonus.
This is largely my view also. However, if we were to somehow be able to play the finals series at the same level as the 9 game winning streak, we could do some serious damage. Whilst I agree with the "no finals experience" notion, we do have two coaches in our ranks that know a thing or "three" about the ultimate success in September. As we know, a significant portion of the game is played above the shoulders, if these coaches can instil the confidence and a free spirited, nothing to lose attitude in the players, it can work wonders. We will know in a week or so.
#strongertogether
I'm also of the opinion that a flag this year may be a bridge too far. But if we don't win it, the least we can do is make sure the other sides we play earn it.
Show the same effort we've shown in the second half of the season and go down fighting...and I'll be reasonably happy with the year.
I'm also of the opinion that a flag this year may be a bridge too far. But if we don't win it, the least we can do is make sure the other sides we play earn it.
Show the same effort we've shown in the second half of the season and go down fighting...and I'll be reasonably happy with the year.
The hawks were probably viewed the same way in 2008.
The other thing to consider is what could have been. We were in it to our teeth against the Tigers and kicked ourselves out of it. Did similar against Sydney, and Melbourne, and possibly could consider having done similar with St. Kilda.
The bombers game is still inexplicable to me, but they smashed us in the 3rd quarter.
To me, our pre season was junk, and our players not in good state to compete for the season, and this seems to have changed once we went to the fresher legs, and lesser lights who are more team oriented.
Carlton v Melbourne Grand Final.
Brisbane at the Gabba and Melbourne are the only two fixtures I find iffy and this team is more than good enough to get even better.
I wouldn't mind just getting the first final under our belt first - that makes the season a truly positive step forward.
Looking ahead is fraught with danger. It's amazing how easy it is to slip on the first step when you're staring at the top of the staircase.....
Got my ticket Mickey 0.....Punt Road end, 2nd tier in the pocket. Ticket prices for games over there are so good.....just the airfare was the killer...you'd think I was sitting up the pointy end with the prices! But worth every cent to be there....my last live winning Blues final was a certain day in 1995!
Got my ticket Mickey 0.....Punt Road end, 2nd tier in the pocket. Ticket prices for games over there are so good.....just the airfare was the killer...you'd think I was sitting up the pointy end with the prices! But worth every cent to be there....my last live winning Blues final was a certain day in 1995!
Can I ask what your tickets were? Mine was $200 for 4 - two adults one concession one child. And we’re top of the stand!
About $73 plus a few extra dollars booking fee/refund option etc. Over here at Perth Stadium, for non-members it's well over $100 for a ticket just to a standard game during the season...up to $150 depending on where you sit.
$900 return for the airfares!!! Luckily my daughter lives in Brunswick so free accommodation.
I wouldn't mind just getting the first final under our belt first - that makes the season a truly positive step forward.
Looking ahead is fraught with danger. It's amazing how easy it is to slip on the first step when you're staring at the top of the staircase.....
Yes I am aware but I am not in the football administration in the football department I'm a die hard Blues pundit.
What I see from from this squad in general and how they can play consistently against the best teams in the competition not winning the flag should be viewed as a disappointment!
Yes I am aware but I am not in the football administration in the football department I'm a die hard Blues pundit.
What I see from from this squad in general and how they can play consistently against the best teams in the competition not winning the flag should be viewed as a disappointment!
I'd be happy with a finals win and call that progression and tick for Voss and the team but Id be lying if I said I wasnt looking forward to even more success and winning the following week as well vs Melb or the Pies.
I'd be happy with a finals win and call that progression and tick for Voss and the team but Id be lying if I said I wasnt looking forward to even more success and winning the following week as well vs Melb or the Pies.
Well, didn't we just beat them both?
I'm also of the opinion that a flag this year may be a bridge too far. But if we don't win it, the least we can do is make sure the other sides we play earn it.
Show the same effort we've shown in the second half of the season and go down fighting...and I'll be reasonably happy with the year.
Nah not me. This group is well and truly overdue and with the talent on the park at the moment we just have to win this first final. We should have made the finals last year and considering the much better run this year on the injury front its a win and only a win thats a pass for me.
After that i will consider it a bonus but making the finals and losing to a team that if it wasn't for 2 freaky very very lucky games would have finished 10th is another wasted year IMO
Dogs won it from 7th.....we are a better side than they were.
Baby bombers came from nowhere to ruin our party in 1993.
Hawks stole one in 2008 well before they were expecting.
Simple question - Why not us?
Well, didn't we just beat them both?
We did but finals are different and both have a few key players back which makes them better so more of a challenge.
We have an A grader on every line need to make it count.
Simple question - Why not us?
Of course it's possible.
But
Four teams above us can afford a slip.
We can't.
The home town advantage and interstate travel comes into play.
It's very likely those top four sides have primed themselves to peak at this time so we'll be striking them at their best.
For us to win it all, it will take some effort.
It's nice to have faith and confidence...but it will take a supreme effort and lot of luck.
Of course it's possible.
But
Four teams above us can afford a slip.
We can't.
The home town advantage and interstate travel comes into play.
It's very likely those top four sides have primed themselves to peak at this time so we'll be striking them at their best.
For us to win it all, it will take some effort.
It's nice to have faith and confidence...but it will take a supreme effort and lot of luck.
4 teams above us CAN afford a slip.....but only 1....and only in the first week where they each will play a tougher opponent than us.
We just had 'our slip'....and won't need another one.
You could argue that finishing 5th if the best place to finish because you play the weakest opponent.
The top 4 will have 2 winners and 2 losers......but at what cost to both?
The 2 winners get a week off, but they have a week off now. So its 1 game in 3 weeks prior to the prelim. That can mess with anyones routine and form.
The 2 losers get home field advantage in week 2, sure, but they will probably be carrying more niggles and doubts than their opponents who are coming off a win.
The top 4 are not THAT much better than we are.
The top 4 are more injured than we are.
The top 4 are not as in form as we are.
The top 4 are beatable.
Just did a breakdown of each finalist vs top 4 and vs top 8 (which includes top 4) and added up the total games played vs finalists.
Makes for some interesting reading and some interesting revelations
Team : vs4 : vs8 : vs finalists
Pies : 2-3 : 6-4 : 10 games
Lions : 3-2 : 8-2 : 10 games
Port : 2-2 : 5-3 : 8 games
Dees : 2-2 : 6-4 : 10 games
Blues : 3-3 : 5-6 : 11 games
Saints: 0-5 : 3-6 : 9 games
Giants: 1-3 : 3-6 : 9 games
Swans : 0-5 : 2-7 : 9 games
This shows us a few things...
1. We have probably had the hardest fixture with playing top 8 sides more than any other finalist
2. We have probably had the hardest fixture with playing top 4 sides more than any other finalist
3. We can hold our own against the best in the game - the top 4 (3-3)
4: Whereas 6-8 have won 1** from 14 attempts vs top 4.
Another fact not represented in those numbers is that the Lions are undefeated at home all year. They would need to lose at least 1 to not make the grand final. Ideally lose week 1 against Port so we wouldn't meet them until the GF should we both make it. If they win week 1, and we win weeks 1+2, we'd play them in a prelim in Brisbane.
**fwiw the 1 was GWS vs Dees
Dees 5.15-45
Giants 7.5-47
....which was more about good luck rather than good fortune.
The fact we have major scalps above us and beaten them with just as many missing players, there is a worry as to winning against us. How to double team our tall towers. Hence we look to open up the forward 50m with other options on a lead. Get our mids to kick for goal on the run or finding new smaller targets. Looking for opportunities they can’t defend so easily by double and triple teaming our big targets. Just became less predictable. No bombing it into the forward 50m unless the foot soldiers are at the drop to clean up the mess and either score with snap shots or lock the ball in. Creating another stoppage. Avoid rebounds out of deference by bombing the ball in without a plan. I don’t see us losing this first finals game. Not if we bring the best intensity and pressure from the first bounce. We should win this game unless the guys without the experience of finals football choke. They just have to treat this as another game. Sydney are a good unit. Not good enough to go all the way or to beat us after a loss. We are also coming off a loss. Kill their dominant mids and they won’t be able to get scoreboard opportunities. I rate our mids slightly above theirs. Even though the All Australian results might say different. My only issue is with our small forwards. Great on a good day. Terrible if not awake to some hard work. They shouldn’t beat us. Not in my opinion. If they do it shouldn’t be a humiliation. I won’t be angry either way. I am glad we get the experience the players need.
Lets beat sydney first and worry about what comes next.
We'll know who we face if we win before the bounce which psychologically might make it harder but our equation is simple enough.
Win week 1 and we are back at the G in week 2.
After that, is irrelevant until the week of the match.
Lets beat sydney first and worry about what comes next.
We'll know who we face if we win before the bounce which psychologically might make it harder but our equation is simple enough.
Win week 1 and we are back at the G in week 2.
After that, is irrelevant until the week of the match.
Yep
Glass half empty-some (me included)
Glass half full-others
Let's just worry about the glass in front of us first.
Dare to dream the dream
Of course it's possible.
But
Four teams above us can afford a slip.
We can't.
The home town advantage and interstate travel comes into play.
It's very likely those top four sides have primed themselves to peak at this time so we'll be striking them at their best.
For us to win it all, it will take some effort.
It's nice to have faith and confidence...but it will take a supreme effort and lot of luck.
Yes, it's along way. I'll start to think flag if we get to the PF but that will likely be in Brisbane.
I reckon this is our 1978 before our 1979. There are some similarities
Yes, it's along way. I'll start to think flag if we get to the PF but that will likely be in Brisbane.
I reckon this is our 1978 before our 1979. There are some similarities
I'll be shocked if Melbourne don't dis assemble Collingwood
Then they will face a similar type team the following week
Brisbane at Brisbane is the biggest of all stumbling blocks.
We assume given the season that any Brisbane games will be evening affairs, but I wouldn't want to bet on it as it's completely subject to the AFL's whim, they usually schedule both preliminaries on or before the Sat to give the GF teams the minimum 7 day break. But that means one will be daylight and the other night, although they did some weird twilight preliminary last season on the Saturday which I think went over like a lead balloon.
That means Brisbane on the Friday night for whoever has to front them.
I'll just be glad for now to get past the Swans, they are a hardened finals group and won't be at all easy.
I'm getting old, blood pressure is a bit too high, heart is not as strong as it use to be, finals are a big deal and full of stress.
I might need to be like;
| (https://media.tenor.com/tsxteSiPmNQAAAAM/woman-womaninbed.gif) | (https://media.tenor.com/-LEc20QzCP0AAAAM/cat-cat-hide.gif) |
need to bring pressure 65 plus tackles ,and please no more LONG BOMBS to charlie v 2 opponents need to be clever with our fwd entries and we should salute
We've shown our game can match it with the best....the win over the Pies with players missing showed that. From memory they were only missing Bobby Hill from their best team. This time we're likely to field our strongest possible team in maybe two years.
Would've been awhile since our selection committee have had such a tough job.
I'll be shocked if Melbourne don't dis assemble Collingwood
Then they will face a similar type team the following week
Brisbane at Brisbane is the biggest of all stumbling blocks.
Yes, both Melbourne and Carlton have the game needed to stifle Collingwood game style. Melbourne have peaked nicely and are certainly my tip. The only game they lost was to us in the best war of attrition ever, 175 tackles combined, 88-87, where both sides applied brutal pressure, and no-one blinked. Not sure any other side would have stood up to that. Real finals stuff.
I'd tip us but we are 5th.
need to bring pressure 65 plus tackles ,and please no more LONG BOMBS to charlie v 2 opponents need to be clever with our fwd entries and we should salute
Why wouldn't you kick long bombs when you've got two of the best contested marking forwards in the game and very good crumbing forwards?
Our current mix of long and short kicks to leading players, chip kicks to players in space and long bombs to a contest is working well. Don't change anything!
AFL expecting 93,000 to this match.
Going to be a big one.
AFL expecting 93,000 to this match.
Going to be a big one.
Ambitious
I'd say 80 to 85 thousand.
Either way get there early
Not sure why people don't think it won't be a big crowd. South Melbourne fans usually turn out to Sydney games, and we have a supporter base who hasn't seen a final since we stuck in, in 2013.
It's a sellout, depends on how full the MCC and cooperate boxes are.
DJC replied why not go long bomb ,my view is that how many games have we lost by watching the opposition spoil the ball only to see them run the ball out of our forward line with ease .
If it's wet and windy, do we play both ruckmen? The one ruck plan against GWS simply didn't but conditions might dictate it a bit on Friday night?
If it's wet and windy, do we play both ruckmen? The one ruck plan against GWS simply didn't but conditions might dictate it a bit on Friday night?
Swans technically have three rucks with Hickey, McClean and Amartey but the latter two are also their KP Forwards.
Weather isnt real flash Friday but I think we will go Pittonet and TDK which worked for our winning streak, last game playing one ruck and Harry vs GWS was a bit of a fail imho.
It's a sellout, depends on how full the MCC and cooperate boxes are.
Crowd will be massive, all Bluebaggers are up and about. Even Gerard Whately on SEN was talking us up saying our game is the one he is most excited about.
Swans technically have three rucks with Hickey, McClean and Amartey but the latter two are also their KP Forwards.
Weather isnt real flash Friday but I think we will go Pittonet and TDK which worked for our winning streak, last game playing one ruck and Harry vs GWS was a bit of a fail imho.
Wet weather would've been perfect for Jack who loves it.
The wet doesn't suit TDK who wants to run and jump about and already struggles to hold his marks.
Can't see our MC just picking Pittonet though (even though i think for this week, with wet weather, it'd be the right thing to do IMO).
Swans technically have three rucks with Hickey, McClean and Amartey but the latter two are also their KP Forwards.
Weather isnt real flash Friday but I think we will go Pittonet and TDK which worked for our winning streak, last game playing one ruck and Harry vs GWS was a bit of a fail imho.
Harry would probably be more than capable of matching McClean and Amartey, or McDonald. However, that would mean that Tom would have to do more than his share and that would advantage Hickey.
It seems like the rain will have blown over before the game and I think that we'll go with two rucks. Pitto tends to play the same regardless of the conditions :)
Crowd will be massive, all Bluebaggers are up and about. Even Gerard Whately on SEN was talking us up saying our game is the one he is most excited about.
I booked a trip to Adelaide 3 months ago.
I booked a trip to Adelaide 3 months ago.
My best mate (also Bluebaggers) and I booked a trip OS also🤦🏻. Here week 1, away weeks 2 and 3, back for the GF. Do the right thing by me Carlton.
I booked a trip to Adelaide 3 months ago.
Never book a holiday in September.
You never know what could happen.
Could be another Essendon drugs saga that gets team knocked out of finals contention last minute.
Wet weather would've been perfect for Jack who loves it.
The wet doesn't suit TDK who wants to run and jump about and already struggles to hold his marks.
Can't see our MC just picking Pittonet though (even though i think for this week, with wet weather, it'd be the right thing to do IMO).
Agree...it seems a night to suit jack and while you and I would pick him if fit I dont see the MC doing same and would expect as I said both Pittonet and TDK lining up in similar fashion as we have seen before with Pitto doing the heavy lifting early and TDK being preferred later.
Thought the same EB.....from all reports JSOS probably needs another week with that knee but if we were able to win on Friday night, I reckon he'd be in the frame for the following week.
The official injury update from the club on the 25th August ruled SIlvagni out for the first final, so his selection / non selection is a moot point IMO. The club is clearly moving forward with the Pittonet / De Koning combo, and I can't see the MC giving Silvagni a ruck gig if the first two are available, not even in the rain.
https://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/1414902/injury-update-jack-silvagni
The official injury update from the club on the 25th August ruled SIlvagni out for the first final, so his selection / non selection is a moot point IMO. The club is clearly moving forward with the Pittonet / De Koning combo, and I can't see the MC giving Silvagni a ruck gig if the first two are available, not even in the rain.
https://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/1414902/injury-update-jack-silvagni
Clearly moving forward with pittonet and De Koning combo??
Did they both play last game?
If our mids are switched on and take on the challenge our ruck issues won’t be a serious problem. I think at their best Geelong didn’t worry about the ruck abilities of their players. They would target their opposition mids and be happy to be second to the ball. I just hope the mids are going to turn on the heat. We have enough talent in this area. Especially if Cripps, Walsh, Cerra, Hollands are rested enough and ready to go. Hewett and Kennedy can give us enough strength with bigger bodies and consistent efforts while the previous four give us drive out of the clearances. Which is where this game should be won. Harry better play with some smarts. His best and worst games are way too far apart. He could potentially be our weakest link. Most dangerous forward but a problem if he isn’t doing the team needed role. I still can’t see us losing this. If we do, then I will be totally p#ssed. If we are a genuine threat this should be 20 to 30 points in our favour.
Clearly moving forward with pittonet and De Koning combo??
Did they both play last game?
We won 4 in a row with Pitto and the King and dropped the game when we left Pitto out - not that Pitto’s absence cost us the game.
I don’t think that our MC is wedded to any particular combination but they know that going with two fair dinkum rucks works … with the right supporting cast and structures.
I expect us to go with Pitto and the King but, given the expected conditions, I won’t be too surprised if Pitto is an emergency.
Cant believe we are still talking about this whilst Jack is injured.
For mine, the question isnt about whether or not we play pitto and/or de koning, its whether or not we play the two of them with harry.
Why is Jack being discussed when he is injured and not even in line for selection?
Assuming all of Cripps, Doc, Pittonet and Motlop come back in.....that's 4 reasonably unlucky ones to miss out this week....and possibly one more if Kennedy was to be selected too?
IMHO....Fogarty, Durdin or Fisher, Marchbank (with Dow the sub)....and one other....wouldn't want to be sitting on the MC this week.
Assuming all of Cripps, Doc, Pittonet and Motlop come back in.....that's 4 reasonably unlucky ones to miss out this week....and possibly one more if Kennedy was to be selected too?
IMHO....Fogarty, Durdin or Fisher, Marchbank (with Dow the sub)....and one other....wouldn't want to be sitting on the MC this week.
Unfortunate for the blokes who miss out but how good is it to have genuine competition for spots in the 22?
One thing has me uneasy more then any for this final and its how quiet Sydney is in the media and how our club and individual players are front and centre in the spotlight.
Our history in this situation with this group has never ended well when we are talked up this much.
Geez i hope im wrong.
One thing has me uneasy more then any for this final and its how quiet Sydney is in the media and how our club and individual players are front and centre in the spotlight.
Our history in this situation with this group has never ended well when we are talked up this much.
Geez i hope im wrong.
Agree. I would have preferred a much lower profile. Keep getting the feeling that Sydney may provide a very nasty surprise, much to the glee of the AFL media.
One thing has me uneasy more then any for this final and its how quiet Sydney is in the media and how our club and individual players are front and centre in the spotlight.
Our history in this situation with this group has never ended well when we are talked up this much.
Geez i hope im wrong.
Sydney players rarely feature in the media - apart from Buddy. There is one article about Gulden though - he grew up supporting the mighty Blues.
I've been struck by how the build up to the first lot of finals has been pretty low key across the board. The Pies are getting more coverage than the other finalists, but that's usually the way it is.
Shawny....I guess the fact that Sydney are perennial finalists, and we're playing our first finals match in a decade, was always going to mean the focus was on us. I'd like to think that someone like Voss, who's been there and done it on the biggest stage as a player, would be the perfect bloke to keep them focused this week.
Shawny....I guess the fact that Sydney are perennial finalists, and we're playing our first finals match in a decade, was always going to mean the focus was on us. I'd like to think that someone like Voss, who's been there and done it on the biggest stage as a player, would be the perfect bloke to keep them focused this week.
Yep
It would only becomes a problem if the players get caught up with the hype and go into the game with anything less than a full focus.
One thing has me uneasy more then any for this final and its how quiet Sydney is in the media and how our club and individual players are front and centre in the spotlight.
Our history in this situation with this group has never ended well when we are talked up this much.
Geez i hope im wrong.
Its all part of the "growing up" process. Being the BIG club we are, it's always going to mean attention is on us from all quarters. As Cripps said in his presser, they boys are used to playing in front of big crowds because of our larger supporter base and the well established rivalries. I think that the club has done a power of work in the "mind" space and so I think we will be ready to go. It will be a high pressure game, the GWS game aside we have played high pressure elimination finals for several weeks. It will come down to selection and execution of the plan.
If you ask me, the pressure and media attention is ALL on the Filth. Its their flag to lose.
Swans dont deserve any press and are just making up the numbers imho...fell into the eight thanks to the Crows being cheated out of a win and should be planning their holidays for the week after.
Swans dont deserve any press and are just making up the numbers imho...fell into the eight thanks to the Crows being cheated out of a win and should be planning their holidays for the week after.
Geez EB i wish i shared your confidence mate. I do agree with you that our season has been far better then the swans but finals are a different beast and just hoping like hell we can settle quickly and get a buffer early.
A loss as i said earlier will be a fail mark to the season as far as im concerned - maybe that why im so nervous cause everything hinges off this game from my perspective.
Our biggest threat is our match committee and their selections.
Our biggest threat is our match committee and their selections.
They have been responsible for more losses than any 1 team over the past 10 years......and daylight is 2nd.
They have been responsible for more losses than any 1 team over the past 10 years......and daylight is 2nd.
Cant disagree.....
The noise coming out of the club is they are expecting a tough physical contest and I think we should expect the same.
Geez EB i wish i shared your confidence mate. I do agree with you that our season has been far better then the swans but finals are a different beast and just hoping like hell we can settle quickly and get a buffer early.
A loss as i said earlier will be a fail mark to the season as far as im concerned - maybe that why im so nervous cause everything hinges off this game from my perspective.
There is no way a loss Friday is a failed season IMO.
Goal at the beginning of the year was to make finals....we've done it. And to bounce back from being 15th on the ladder and finish 5th was a fair effort given we were missing blokes like McGovern, Cerra, Walsh, Silvagni, Kennedy, McKay and a few others for a lot of that winning sequence. And in that run, beat 3 of the top 4 teams as well as St Kilda who were 5th at the time.
There is no way a loss Friday is a failed season IMO.
I agree. 9 wins in a row, including wins against 3 of the top 4, gives us an excellent springboard for 2024, whatever happens on Friday. This season is definitely a pass IMO.
Goal at the beginning of the year was to make finals....we've done it. And to bounce back from being 15th on the ladder and finish 5th was a fair effort given we were missing blokes like McGovern, Cerra, Walsh, Silvagni, Kennedy, McKay and a few others for a lot of that winning sequence. And in that run, beat 3 of the top 4 teams as well as St Kilda who were 5th at the time.
Spot on Surfy, I now view finals as a "free hit". I think what we will learn is whether or not what we are doing stands up in finals. My guess is it will but I say that with no confidence largely due to our past. I need to stop thinking like that.
Geez EB i wish i shared your confidence mate. I do agree with you that our season has been far better then the swans but finals are a different beast and just hoping like hell we can settle quickly and get a buffer early.
A loss as i said earlier will be a fail mark to the season as far as im concerned - maybe that why im so nervous cause everything hinges off this game from my perspective.
Tend to agree Shawny, just getting to the finals would have been a pass for me at the start of the season but things have changed and I rate us much better than the other teams outside the top four and expect to win this final and will be disappointed if we lost to what i think is an inferior Swans team.
Walsh, Cerra, Cripps, Docherty, Charlie, Weitering, Harry, Saad, Newman, Martin, McGovern.
This is one hell of a team and played like one hell of a team and don't think it could get better from a list management point of view with Salary Cap restrictions. We need to make the talent count. Expecting a tough physical contest and Sydney have guns of their own but if we lose this then I would ask questions as to why. Season will be a pass but unsatisfactory.
I agree. 9 wins in a row, including wins against 3 of the top 4, gives us an excellent springboard for 2024, whatever happens on Friday. This season is definitely a pass IMO.
Can’t agree. This group is well overdue to play finals imo and considering we have a very healthy list we need to get this win.
As we all know improving from season to season is no given and we have used injuries as excuses for several years so when you have a decent run you have to take your chances and if we don’t it’s fail imo.
Can’t agree. This group is well overdue to play finals imo and considering we have a very healthy list we need to get this win.
As we all know improving from season to season is no given and we have used injuries as excuses for several years so when you have a decent run you have to take your chances and if we don’t it’s fail imo.
IMO there are many factors or elements that need to be in place to play finals and win a flag than just talent:
- Competent coaching Staff
- Experience (age profile and games played together)
- Sustainable and finals proof game plan
- Luck with injuries
- Favourable draw
- Confidence/Belief
Many of these elements have not been in place for this group thus far. I'm not sure its fair to say "This group is well overdue to play finals", perhaps they just weren't "ready" and now they are. The turn around this year following those 6 losses took tremendous maturity, belief and resilience, that never would have happened in years gone by.
IMO there are many factors or elements that need to be in place to play finals and win a flag than just talent:
- Competent coaching Staff
- Experience (age profile and games played together)
- Sustainable and finals proof game plan
- Luck with injuries
- Favourable draw
- Confidence/Belief
Many of these elements have not been in place for this group thus far. I'm not sure its fair to say "This group is well overdue to play finals", perhaps they just weren't "ready" and now they are. The turn around this year following those 6 losses took tremendous maturity, belief and resilience, that never would have happened in years gone by.
I take your points - I guess I’m just tired of underachieving for many years and as this rebuild was the slowest build to play finals any of us would have thought (if we are really being honest) with that in mind having a year where we actually do a tad better then everyone tipped us to do is not asking too much and hence why that’s where im setting the bar at.
If we lose I’m sure when the hurt fades say around Dec I will probably be pleased with the gains made but for now its not how I see it.
I take your points - I guess I’m just tired of underachieving for many years and as this rebuild was the slowest build to play finals any of us would have thought (if we are really being honest) with that in mind having a year where we actually do a tad better then everyone tipped us to do is not asking too much and hence why that’s where im setting the bar at.
If we lose I’m sure when the hurt fades say around Dec I will probably be pleased with the gains made but for now its not how I see it.
Your post raises another question, why did the rebuild take so long? Meddling boards, CEO's? It seems, from the outside looking in at least, every plan that was laid out was not stuck to due to pathetic leadership. We finally have people at the helm who know what the fark they are doing. I'll lay London to a brick that in the middle of this year, if our CEO was Baldylocks and the Prez was MLG with a board full of Pratts, Mathiesons and their boosters, Vossy would have been gonski after the 6 losses.
Your post raises another question, why did the rebuild take so long? Meddling boards, CEO's? It seems, from the outside looking in at least, every plan that was laid out was not stuck to due to pathetic leadership. We finally have people at the helm who know what the fark they are doing. I'll lay London to a brick that in the middle of this year, if our CEO was Baldylocks and the Prez was MLG with a board full of Pratts, Mathiesons and their boosters, Vossy would have been gonski after the 6 losses.
When Teague took over the team during Covid the players were young. 2015 class was 22 years old. It's just that the rebuild began at ground zero with a scorched earth policy. Letting Tuohy go for Marchy was a disaster. Then past five years we consistently had 12-15 players on injury list that didn't really help a young team. McGovern, Martin, Williams have hardly played
Letting Tuohy go for Marchy was a disaster.
This is incorrect.
There are deals attached to deals attached to deals, but this isn't correct.
We traded Tuohy+ 2nd rounder for Smedts, future 1st and a late pick (Fun fact - geelong used that pick on Lachie Fogarty)
That future first was traded again (with some later picks), for Marchbank+Pickett and a 2nd rounder.
We swapped that pick with dogs for other picks. We swapped those picks to adelaide for Gibbs and 2 first rounders.
So....there was about 12 picks that ended up being involved in that initial trade of Tuohy.
Your post raises another question, why did the rebuild take so long? Meddling boards, CEO's? It seems, from the outside looking in at least, every plan that was laid out was not stuck to due to pathetic leadership. We finally have people at the helm who know what the fark they are doing. I'll lay London to a brick that in the middle of this year, if our CEO was Baldylocks and the Prez was MLG with a board full of Pratts, Mathiesons and their boosters, Vossy would have been gonski after the 6 losses.
Our rebuild blurprint is certainly something it's doubtful other clubs will follow.
Why did it take so long to be back playing finals?....
We cut too deep initially rather than staggering some of those departures (SOS said as much)
We made some poor choices with trades and selections, and hand in hand with that....
Our development of some young players was also poor.
We had some significant long term injuries and illnesses. (Curnow, Docherty and others)
All of that put pressure on coaches because of the lack of progress...and that resulted in change and another adjustment which then had a delaying effect on the progress.
The reality though is we don't know if persisting with Bolton or Teague would have had us in finals sooner ...or not at all.
Once you sack them that becomes a 'maybe, who knows'
Luck plays a huge part, and being in the right place at the right time with the right group of players is sometimes just about luck and the stars aligning.
The rebuild took too long for a many reasons, but given the relative talent of the list, we needed a bit of luck.
Ultimately the biggest issue we had during the Ratten years, was that we had a heavy reliance on too few, and the kids didnt kick on, and the mature agers didnt really pan out either.
Good teams don't rely on too few to be competitive, they rely on a few to be good. We were the opposite. The other thing that our rebuild struggled with, was key position players. We had a makeshift forwardline and backline with not enough options in both ends, which meant we struggled in those areas.
We also had a mini exodus of setting standards to the playing group, where we were forced into a situation where we sacked players for non football reasons. These proved to be some of our better performers at the time, but its possible that this set the scene for us to transform our groups mentality to the point where we were then able to start a rebuild properly, as opposed to the half pregnant approach we did under Pagan, Ratten and then Malthouse. Bolton I think was the coach that got the rawest deal. He was given a list in transition, and then had to cope with heavy changes to the list year in year out.
All in all its as simple as this. Our draft crop of 2015, have played more games together on the list in season 2023, than they had prior to this season, which is no ones fault but dumb luck.
https://www.sen.com.au/news/2023/09/05/very-very-simple-game-to-analyse-the-key-factors-that-will-swing-carlton/
Hoyne is a one-ruck guy but he's changed his mind as to which ruckman offers more.
Hoyne says the Blues should stick with that mix, saying Tom De Koning has had an excellent six weeks in the ruck.
“I just want to put this on the agenda for Carlton supporters as well,” he said.
“His best position, the last six weeks, he is clearly a ruckman. He is not a forward.
“I would not be playing Pittonet. I would be keeping this really simple. Let this guy go.
“As a ruckman over the last six weeks he’s been the eighth best ruckman in the competition. As a forward, sixth worst forward in the competition.
“Just put Harry McKay in the ruck for five minutes per quarter. The second ruck role, we talk about it a lot, it’s 20 minutes a game. Don’t lose sleep over it.”
This is an enormous swing in two months, with Hoyne saying mid-season that Pittonet statistically was a significantly better ruckman than De Koning. The young Blue has clearly broken out since re-signing.
Hoyne is a one-ruck guy but he's changed his mind as to which ruckman offers more.
If Negrepontis is using Hoyne as his source I'd suggest he needs to find a more stable source! ;)
I seriously doubt well consider centre square rucking Harry in finals except if all our other ruck options go down, F50 is a different matter and Harry and Cripps have done well in F50 boundary line stoppages.
Rnd 24 was a good a test as you can create and in the centre Harry was pretty much a fail, in rucking terms Harry has;
"All the gear and no idea!"
Given how much they flip I can't take the likes of Hoyne, Negrepontis and others seriously, they wax and wane almost based on a quarter by quarter basis.
They take a stance that is very reminiscent of the early noughties when Grant Thomas wasted St Kilda's good list fortunes by trying to assert you don't need rucks, spent most of his 6 years trying to ruck Koschitzke after Everett left. I recall they had Hayes, De Santo, Riewoldt, Ball, Harvey, Gehrig, Black and others and burnt their chances by trying to ruck a solo B-grader against the likes of Lade and Brogan in a final with Brogan being among the BoG. Port did to the Aints what we should do the others using Pitto and TDK. Thomas never learned, he kept repeating the same mistake, rucked Ackland against Jolly and Ball a year later for the same result, and another year later lost to the Dees who had Jamar and White with White among the BoG!
Finals are high pressure affairs that a very rarely blow outs, most games are in the balance late, and while legs get weary the talls do not get any shorter! ;)
https://www.sen.com.au/news/2023/09/05/very-very-simple-game-to-analyse-the-key-factors-that-will-swing-carlton/
Hoyne is a one-ruck guy but he's changed his mind as to which ruckman offers more.
Probs why we need to keep Jack.
Try and TDK and JSOS second ruck combo.
Probs why we need to keep Jack.
Try and TDK and JSOS second ruck combo.
I just have a feeling they'll announce Jack before we play on Friday night.
Send the fans to the game on an extra high.
anyone else concerned about the press on swans ,How lucky to be there North game and ADL game also they are saying how they fall away in last Q, i dont know what to think anymore
anyone else concerned about the press on swans ,How lucky to be there North game and ADL game also they are saying how they fall away in last Q, i dont know what to think anymore
I'm not worried about the press around Sydney, I'm worried about them as a team.
I just have a feeling they'll announce Jack before we play on Friday night.
Send the fans to the game on an extra high.
It does seem like a good time to do it.
I have an uneasy feeling about this one.
Everything says we should win and win well but the massive media microscope on the players coupled with the onslaught of platitudes make me wonder if their heads may be way too inflated to do the job.
IMO, our biggest opponent is actually ourselves, if our players think this game is in the bag before it has even been played, then the Swans are the sort of team that will make us pay for that.
Hope I'm wrong & Voss has been drilling them all week about how much work is needed to win a final.
https://www.sen.com.au/news/2023/09/05/very-very-simple-game-to-analyse-the-key-factors-that-will-swing-carlton/
Hoyne is a one-ruck guy but he's changed his mind as to which ruckman offers more.
The problem is the small sample size.
Pittonet has come back from injury....and TBH, hasn't looked anywhere near his best. To the point where if given the opportunity, i'd pick TDK and Jack this week over him. 8th best ruck is a middle of the road ruck, which is acceptable. 6 worst forward is the elephant in the room and something i've been saying. He is either #1 ruck, or he is playing 2's. We can't afford to have him as #2 ruck.
Harry as a ruck is far from ideal. He is poor in the ruck. And very poor when it hits the ground. Another area where someone like Jack is a plus.
End result is our ruck setup this week will not be great no matter what option we end up choosing.
Not sure if its been mentioned, but there is only 2 teams in the 8 we haven't won against.
Lions and Swans.
We were in a different stage of development/form last time we played both, but it gives us something to prove.
The problem is the small sample size.
Pittonet has come back from injury....and TBH, hasn't looked anywhere near his best. To the point where if given the opportunity, i'd pick TDK and Jack this week over him. 8th best ruck is a middle of the road ruck, which is acceptable. 6 worst forward is the elephant in the room and something i've been saying. He is either #1 ruck, or he is playing 2's. We can't afford to have him as #2 ruck.
Harry as a ruck is far from ideal. He is poor in the ruck. And very poor when it hits the ground. Another area where someone like Jack is a plus.
End result is our ruck setup this week will not be great no matter what option we end up choosing.
Yep, Pitto has to give us a massive lift in his form. Recent form from the big fella has been so-so. However wanting JSOS is a folly as he's out injured for a week or two.
We'll just have to trust our club when it comes to the dilemma of TDK & Pitto or H?? Having three talls does cause concern. Or do we throw TDK the challenge of rucking on his pat malone?
I have an uneasy feeling about this one.
Everything says we should win and win well but the massive media microscope on the players coupled with the onslaught of platitudes make me wonder if their heads may be way too inflated to do the job.
IMO, our biggest opponent is actually ourselves, if our players think this game is in the bag before it has even been played, then the Swans are the sort of team that will make us pay for that.
Hope I'm wrong & Voss has been drilling them all week about how much work is needed to win a final.
We only need to bring our hunting pressure and intensity and make the Fluffy Ducks feel it... then add efficient scoring to that pressure. We have the system, comradery and talent.
Yep, Pitto has to give us a massive lift in his form. Recent form from the big fella has been so-so. However wanting JSOS is a folly as he's out injured for a week or two.
We'll just have to trust our club when it comes to the dilemma of TDK & Pitto or H?? Having three talls does cause concern. Or do we throw TDK the challenge of rucking on his pat malone?
If Pitto was fit, i'd ruck him alone.....but he's not (or at least wasn't - hopefully he is now)
I really don't like rucking Harry.
Honestly, i'd choose the extra mid Kennedy over Pittonet and have Cripps nominate for ruckwork around the ground when TDK is unavailable, and Harry when forward. Cripps wouldn't have to do any extra legwork as he is would be at the ruck contests anyway....he just gets to push and shove a ruck rather than a tagger.
We'd be able to use Kennedy as an extra big body at the stoppages to give him a chopout in the middle.
Would also rest Kennedy forward playing the Jack Silvagni 3rd tall / hit up forward role. Gives us an option should Harry have to cover TDK in the ruck.
If Pitto was fit, i'd ruck him alone.....but he's not (or at least wasn't - hopefully he is now)
I really don't like rucking Harry.
Honestly, i'd choose the extra mid Kennedy over Pittonet and have Cripps nominate for ruckwork around the ground when TDK is unavailable, and Harry when forward. Cripps wouldn't have to do any extra legwork as he is would be at the ruck contests anyway....he just gets to push and shove a ruck rather than a tagger.
We'd be able to use Kennedy as an extra big body at the stoppages to give him a chopout in the middle.
Would also rest Kennedy forward playing the Jack Silvagni 3rd tall / hit up forward role. Gives us an option should Harry have to cover TDK in the ruck.
Don’t mind this idea
Also if BlAcres is out Kennedy should come back in. We need another hard mid, especially if it’s wet. Dow wont do it around the clinches
Its going to be Pittonet and TDK, or TDK and Harry doing the ruck imo...the weather will probably dictate which combo and its going to come down to the midfields and who dominates contested possies at clearances.
Dont think any of the rucks will be able to dominate and you will need as many contested style mids as you can muster because its going to be rough and ready at the stoppages given the Swans tend to run a few tags with Mills, Parker and Rowbottom hanging off the opposing key mids at most stoppages.
I know its irrelevant with Jack unavailable but being able to use him as that extra big mid as well as contest the ruck duels would have been handy given the conditions. Agree with Krud on Kennedy, with Jack out I like the options Kennedy can give you down forward and around the ball given Cripps will probably have a variety of players tagging him hard and I think our other mids like Cerra, Hewett and Walsh will need to be at their best which I think they will given we have a deeper set of mids imho and will come home a bit harder than the Swans.
The one thing that worries me is we rely heavily on scoring from stoppages. Around 70% of our scores are from stoppage. We are the number 1 contested ball tram ATM. Many experts say this is not healthy. Our scores from back half transition are poor. Less than 30%. The Swans will be well aware of this and will try and get us on the outside with their running game. I know this may sound simplistic, but it's factual.
Not sure if its been mentioned, but there is only 2 teams in the 8 we haven't won against.
Lions and Swans.
We were in a different stage of development/form last time we played both, but it gives us something to prove.
last season our best win was against the Swans and from memory we were missing Harry and weiters that day.
It was at marvel, and Lochiel o brien played his best ever game at afl level, but you know, that was last year.
We could have beaten them this season but kicked ourselves out of it.
The one thing that worries me is we rely heavily on scoring from stoppages. Around 70% of our scores are from stoppage. We are the number 1 contested ball tram ATM. Many experts say this is not healthy. Our scores from back half transition are poor. Less than 30%. The Swans will be well aware of this and will try and get us on the outside with their running game. I know this may sound simplistic, but it's factual.
I mentioned this a few days ago, and apparently it's nothing to worry about lol.
Unfortunately for us at the moment, it's contest or bust. This may be a good thing in the final, if the wet weather makes the ball and surface slippery. I think a slow moving slog with contest after contest would work in our favour.
The player who concerns me most is Harry.
His game against GWS was well below par, no doubt caused by the lack of match practice. Given that he is still lacking match practice, why should we assume that he will be able to rise to the pressures of a finals game?
If he isn't able to do so and puts in a similar performance he will be a weak link that Sydney will be happy to exploit.
The player who concerns me most is Harry.
His game against GWS was well below par, no doubt caused by the lack of match practice. Given that he is still lacking match practice, why should we assume that he will be able to rise to the pressures of a finals game?
If he isn't able to do so and puts in a similar performance he will be a weak link that Sydney will be happy to exploit.
If Harry does nothing else but draw fire away from Charlie, his presence is very valuable. We got found out a bit while Harry was out of the side, our scoring was definitely on the slide. Our forward line against GWS looked like a bunch of midgets when Harry was in the ruck.
I mentioned this a few days ago, and apparently it's nothing to worry about lol.
Unfortunately for us at the moment, it's contest or bust. This may be a good thing in the final, if the wet weather makes the ball and surface slippery. I think a slow moving slog with contest after contest would work in our favour.
People are putting the horse before the cart.
Complaining we are scoring too much from stoppages than anyone else and than what is normal.
This is true.
But when you are #1 in stoppages, of course you will get more chances from stoppages.
The way Vossy has team defence structured up when out of possession makes it hard for the opposition to "sling shot" from the back half and makes it hard for us to transition unless we run in waves through the middle.
Collingwood failed miserably playing fast attacking football they literally got beaten up in the contest.
If we miss Acres thats going to be a blow because he rarely ever loses his one on one battles on the wing.
I mentioned this a few days ago, and apparently it's nothing to worry about lol.
Unfortunately for us at the moment, it's contest or bust. This may be a good thing in the final, if the wet weather makes the ball and surface slippery. I think a slow moving slog with contest after contest would work in our favour.
As was discussed at the time, there only so many ways that you can score. If you win the clearances and score from them, scores from other game phases will be down.
If we win the stoppages and continue to score from clearances at the same rate, we win the game.
So it's confirmed, Pitto will play this week, https://www.sen.com.au/news/2023/09/06/blues-confirm-at-least-one-change-for-elimination-final-acres-locked-in/
Looks like 4 changes with Doc, Crippa and most likely Mots also getting a gig. Good news also with Acres passing a fitness test and set to play.
I'm guessing Cincotta for Doc, Dow for Crippa, Durds for Mots, who comes out for Pitto I have no idea.
Dow to replace Marchy as sub?
I'd go with:
B: Kemp, Weitering, Newman
HB: Saad, McGovern, Docherty
C: Acres, Cripps, Hollands
HF: Martin, McKay, De Koning
F: Owies, C Curnow, Motlop
Fol: Pittonet, Hewett, Cerra
I/C: Walsh, Cottrell, Cincotta, Cuningham
Emerg(sub): Fogarty, Dow, Marchbank
I'd go with:
B: Kemp, Weitering, McGovern
HB: Saad, McGovern, Docherty
C: Acres, Cripps, Hollands
HF: Martin, McKay, De Koning
F: Owies, C Curnow, Motlop
Fol: Pittonet, Hewett, Cerra
I/C: Walsh, Cottrell, Cincotta, Cuningham
Emerg(sub): Fogarty, Dow, Marchbank
That's pretty much as good as it gets.
Dow the sub, and Fogarty very unlucky.
There was a rumour floating around earlier this week that McGovern had some kind of facial injury...seems it might have been just a facebook speccy...but Marchbank would be reasonable cover in that situation.
I'd go with:
B: Kemp, Weitering, McGovern
HB: Saad, McGovern, Docherty
C: Acres, Cripps, Hollands
HF: Martin, McKay, De Koning
F: Owies, C Curnow, Motlop
Fol: Pittonet, Hewett, Cerra
I/C: Walsh, Cottrell, Cincotta, Cuningham
Emerg(sub): Fogarty, Dow, Marchbank
McGovern playing 2 positions!!!
I was looking for Newmans name, and Im assuming that he is the other Mcgovern.
McGovern playing 2 positions!!!
I was looking for Newmans name, and Im assuming that he is the other Mcgovern.
Yes, one of the Guvs is actually a heavily disguised Newy :-[
I obviously didn't look at in depth either. You just assume some players like Newman are there and look at the fringe selections. ;D
I'd go with:
B: Kemp, Weitering, Newman
HB: Saad, McGovern, Docherty
C: Acres, Cripps, Hollands
HF: Martin, McKay, De Koning
F: Owies, C Curnow, Motlop
Fol: Pittonet, Hewett, Cerra
I/C: Walsh, Cottrell, Cincotta, Cuningham
Emerg(sub): Fogarty, Dow, Marchbank
Fisher out of calculation altogether? I still worry about a battered Hollands on a wet track where his pace isn't necessarily going to be a significant advantage.
Fisher out of calculation altogether? I still worry about a battered Hollands on a wet track where his pace isn't necessarily going to be a significant advantage.
Yes, Fish is stiff not to be in the 25, but so is Chugga.
I prefer the poise of Hollands to the experience of Fisher.
How good is it to have genuine selection contests?
The weather is a bit of a funny one.
I'm looking at different sites and getting some completely different forecasts.
The general consensus is a bit of rain in the afternoon easing off as the evening progresses.
The wind will also be a factor to be considered.
Let's see what the selected side looks like, and we may get bit of an idea as to the options.
The weather is a bit of a funny one.
I'm looking at different sites and getting some completely different forecasts.
The general consensus is a bit of rain in the afternoon easing off as the evening progresses.
The wind will also be a factor to be considered.
Let's see what the selected side looks like, and we may get bit of an idea as to the options.
The BoM forecast seems fairly positive for good footy conditions; light rain during the day, wind easing and cool rather than cold.
Rug up if you're lucky enough to be going.
The BoM forecast seems fairly positive for good footy conditions; light rain during the day, wind easing and cool rather than cold.
Rug up if you're lucky enough to be going.
Weather is a tough read at the moment, forecast is changing rapidly but it now looks like the worst will pass by late afternoon.
We need every ticketed Bluebagger to turn up loud and enthusiastic, it's conditions like that when a big pro-Bagger crowd can make a difference, just ask Harmes and Sheldon!
Weather is a tough read at the moment, forecast is changing rapidly but it now looks like the worst will pass by late afternoon.
We need every ticketed Bluebagger to turn up loud and enthusiastic, it's conditions like that when a big pro-Bagger crowd can make a difference, just ask Harmes and Sheldon!
Rain Hail or Snow, been waiting too long for this to let a bit of weather keep me away. Go Baggers.
Had a good chance to listen to Voss in the press. Spoke very well. Didn’t give too much away as to what was the plan and who is playing and what role for which players. What about the weather, keeping mid players that perform well for the Swans quiet. Voss has a simple solution. You have a system and how to play any side. It doesn’t change much. You have a role so stick to it and do your job. You will lose momentum from time to time. Absorb the pressure and wrestle the momentum back in our favour. Stick to a simple plan and do your job. It doesn’t matter too much about who is selected and in what positions. Do what has worked best in the last 10 weeks and odds are it is a plan that can get the job done no matter who is on the field.
He addressed questions about targeting Cripps and Charlie and stopping their gun players. It isn’t about one or two players. You can’t stop an entire list with too much focus on individuals. Stick to the plan. Wrestle back ever contest possible. Back your confidence and self belief. Enjoy the hype. Embrace the feeling of excitement and have fun. Just remember once the siren goes, to get to your designated task as soon as possible and perform your role. You know what the winning formula looks like and what losing looks like. Do what it was to win and get you into finals. His experience in past finals can only go so far as the game has evolved and changed. This is your opportunity and it sits in your hands. He will back you and trust you will deliver.
He may have made me too confident but he is different to what he was like at the Lions. He is more relaxed and more confident since we almost completely bottomed out 10 weeks ago. He has that cheeky smile answering questions where he believes in this squad. Not that serious look in a coaches face looking stressed and not knowing what to do next.
Even his response as to how Acres is and is it wise to play him if he isn’t 100% ready. Voss said he had his fitness test and passed with flying colours. His is ready to go and eagerly ready for his opportunity to deliver. You would think a coach in this elimination finals situation to be reserved and a little nervous. Has he brought some mongrel into the players mindset? That last game looked like we rotated players to the bench to rest and not go into this final with injuries. It did not look like an all need to win the game at any cost.
Commentator experts still talk about our lack of finals experience and how this could be a disadvantage in this next game against a hungry Swans group that failed last season in the most important game of the year. What about how hungry this group might be to get a taste of a first finals kill in many years.
If we lost this game we would result overall at 7th. Not a disaster. Not great either. If we win it will be at least top 4 as a final result. Voss might get a very good pass for the season or at least resurrection of a potential fail to still get a pass for the entire season. Now we just have to win. There is no other result to look at. The players now need to back the coach in all the way in every contest. Rain, hail or Blizzard it has to be win. At any cost.
Not getting ahead of myself, but I would really love to have a crack at either Melbourne or Collingwood in week 2.
Both would be genuinely scared playing us, and the game is almost a free hit in my eyes.
Just need to do the right thing tomorrow night!
Its never been so hard to pick a 23 man line up. I see this is as a positive and negative, get it wrong and it's curtains.
A few very unlucky chappies, sub to come from one of the emergencies, all have strengths/weaknesses.
I have settled on this (probably completely wrong) but didn't have the balls to pick a sub ;D
I'd go with:
B: Kemp, Weitering, Newman
HB: Saad, McGovern, Docherty
C: Acres, Cripps, Hollands
HF: Martin, McKay, De Koning
F: Owies, C Curnow, Motlop
Fol: Pittonet, Hewett, Cerra
I/C: Walsh, Cottrell, Cincotta, Cuningham
Emerg(sub): Fogarty, Dow, Marchbank
Kennedy and Fogarty would be ins for me and Id have Cuningham and Cottrell out with the latter as my sub.
Wet night, expected heavy contested style game from the Swans who will be looking to drag the game into a rolling scrimmage and I'd want players who tackle well and can be effective in the conditions rather than be pretty.
The other McGovern brother alias Nic Newman might be in for a new experience too with strong rumours he will have a minder such has been his effect on our resurgence.
Blues by 11 points...if the weather is better than expected I'll go 23 points....
I don't expect the MC to over think it too much.
I doubt we'll go too young and probably seasoned heads will get the nod ahead of the newbies, Cincotta as a mature age might be the exception but even he in his first AFL season might struggle a bit.
Kennedy and Fogarty would be ins for me and Id have Cuningham and Cottrell out with the latter as my sub.
What's Kennedy's injury status...he doesn't show up on the injury list, even as a test, but he has missed a few weeks now.
Its never been so hard to pick a 23 man line up. I see this is as a positive and negative, get it wrong and it's curtains.
A few very unlucky chappies, sub to come from one of the emergencies, all have strengths/weaknesses.
I have settled on this (probably completely wrong) but didn't have the balls to pick a sub ;D
Same as mine except you've got Chugga in for Marchy. The MC has to go a different route now ::)
I couldn't pick a sub either :-\
What's Kennedy's injury status...he doesn't show up on the injury list, even as a test, but he has missed a few weeks now.
Apparently he was right to play Rnd 24 but wasn't picked, so available.
Had a good chance to listen to Voss in the press. Spoke very well. Didn’t give too much away as to what was the plan and who is playing and what role for which players. What about the weather, keeping mid players that perform well for the Swans quiet. Voss has a simple solution. You have a system and how to play any side. It doesn’t change much. You have a role so stick to it and do your job. You will lose momentum from time to time. Absorb the pressure and wrestle the momentum back in our favour. Stick to a simple plan and do your job. It doesn’t matter too much about who is selected and in what positions. Do what has worked best in the last 10 weeks and odds are it is a plan that can get the job done no matter who is on the field.
He addressed questions about targeting Cripps and Charlie and stopping their gun players. It isn’t about one or two players. You can’t stop an entire list with too much focus on individuals. Stick to the plan. Wrestle back ever contest possible. Back your confidence and self belief. Enjoy the hype. Embrace the feeling of excitement and have fun. Just remember once the siren goes, to get to your designated task as soon as possible and perform your role. You know what the winning formula looks like and what losing looks like. Do what it was to win and get you into finals. His experience in past finals can only go so far as the game has evolved and changed. This is your opportunity and it sits in your hands. He will back you and trust you will deliver.
He may have made me too confident but he is different to what he was like at the Lions. He is more relaxed and more confident since we almost completely bottomed out 10 weeks ago. He has that cheeky smile answering questions where he believes in this squad. Not that serious look in a coaches face looking stressed and not knowing what to do next.
Even his response as to how Acres is and is it wise to play him if he isn’t 100% ready. Voss said he had his fitness test and passed with flying colours. His is ready to go and eagerly ready for his opportunity to deliver. You would think a coach in this elimination finals situation to be reserved and a little nervous. Has he brought some mongrel into the players mindset? That last game looked like we rotated players to the bench to rest and not go into this final with injuries. It did not look like an all need to win the game at any cost.
Commentator experts still talk about our lack of finals experience and how this could be a disadvantage in this next game against a hungry Swans group that failed last season in the most important game of the year. What about how hungry this group might be to get a taste of a first finals kill in many years.
If we lost this game we would result overall at 7th. Not a disaster. Not great either. If we win it will be at least top 4 as a final result. Voss might get a very good pass for the season or at least resurrection of a potential fail to still get a pass for the entire season. Now we just have to win. There is no other result to look at. The players now need to back the coach in all the way in every contest. Rain, hail or Blizzard it has to be win. At any cost.
Our lack of finals experience is a double edged sword.
We don't know how our side will handle finals but neither will the opposition, and weve seen what they can do. The mcg offsets any perceived advantage that the Swans might think our inexperience might give them.
There are some players who are just built for this environment. Usually the unexpected ones are the ones that do the most damage.
The Swans are dangerous, but they've struggled to run out 4 quarters all season. We have had our fair share of flat patches too.
Doesn't matter how you pick your 22 (or 23) there are good players who deserve to be in the team who simply won't be.
I understand why the MC are doing it, but i really think picking the 2 rucks will hurt us....especially in the rain/hail that is expected tomorrow. Depending on how you pick your team, a lot of people are having the likes of Newman, Kennedy, Fogarty (or multiple of) out of the side to include that 2nd ruck. I think this is a mistake.
Look, we are good enough to beat the swans with 1 ruck, 2 rucks and perhaps even 0 rucks. So a win/loss won't really prove anything one way or another, but i'm worried about coming up against better opposition. I want to sort out a settled lineup. We should be picking our GF side now
I can see a good argument for going in with just one ruck for a game in wild conditions.
It's probably a wait and see, to have a look how bad conditions are...there's a bit of a difference of opinion as to how bad they will be come match time.
You can always make a change like one of the rucks for one of the emergencies if conditions demand.
The one ruck/two ruck argument probably comes down a bit to the opposition.
I reckon we'd struggle against Melbourne if we went in with just one.
I can see a good argument for going in with just one ruck for a game in wild conditions.
It's probably a wait and see, to have a look how bad conditions are...there's a bit of a difference of opinion as to how bad they will be come match time.
You can always make a change like one of the rucks for one of the emergencies if conditions demand.
The one ruck/two ruck argument probably comes down a bit to the opposition.
I reckon we'd struggle against Melbourne if we went in with just one.
I had a work go-kart day booked for tomorrow.
Its been postponed because of the terrible weather we are expecting.
Winds will be full on. There will be some rain...and potentially hail. Top of about 11-12 degrees.....a lot less for game time.
It is Melbourne, so it could end up being 30 and sunny tomorrow instead, but i doubt it.
I can see a good argument for going in with just one ruck for a game in wild conditions.
It's probably a wait and see, to have a look how bad conditions are...there's a bit of a difference of opinion as to how bad they will be come match time.
You can always make a change like one of the rucks for one of the emergencies if conditions demand.
The one ruck/two ruck argument probably comes down a bit to the opposition.
I reckon we'd struggle against Melbourne if we went in with just one.
I reckon we'd struggle against the Swans with their one ruck and two (or three) ruck/forwards. Unlike Harry, McLean is a competent ruckman and McDonald and Amartey know their way around a ball up.
I reckon we'd struggle against the Swans with their one ruck and two (or three) ruck/forwards. Unlike Harry, McLean is a competent ruckman and McDonald and Amartey know their way around a ball up.
Not if the ball is on the ground all game. The rucks aren't picking it up.
I had a work go-kart day booked for tomorrow.
Its been postponed because of the terrible weather we are expecting.
Winds will be full on. There will be some rain...and potentially hail. Top of about 11-12 degrees.....a lot less for game time.
It is Melbourne, so it could end up being 30 and sunny tomorrow instead, but i doubt it.
We won't really know for sure until closer to the game.
I mentioned earlier that I'd had a look at around half a dozen forecast sites and there was a fair bit of variation in the forecast.
Most seemed to be that the worst of the rain and wind would be in the afternoon and easing as the night went on.
The selections may tell a story in terms of the flexibility it allows to make a few late changes if needed.
In: P.Cripps, S.Docherty, M.Pittonet
Out: Z.Fisher (omitted), O.Hollands (omitted), P.Dow (omitted), C.Durdin (omitted)
R24 sub: Caleb Marchbank
Dow, Kennedy, Hollands, Fisher and Motlop are all quite unlucky while Boyd and Young are also a bit unlucky, as is Silvagni. Depending on the weather there may be some changes and anyone who is currently in the side and who misses out would also be quite unlucky. This is all a good thing for the team.
IN: Cripps, Docherty, Pittonet.
OUT: Dow, Durdin, Fisher, Hollands.
EMERG: Dow, Fisher, Hollands, Motlop.
Hope Motlop is the sub.
Looking good.
Pittonet should not play IMO. In poor conditions 2 ruckman + McKay too top heavy.
Let TDK ruck for 20 mins a quarter and H can relieve him. The ball is going to be mostly on the ground. Pitonet will be a liability.
Not sure why marchbank has been elevated into the 22.
In: P.Cripps, S.Docherty, M.Pittonet
Out: Z.Fisher (omitted), O.Hollands (omitted), P.Dow (omitted), C.Durdin (omitted)
R24 sub: Caleb Marchbank
Very suprised Marchbank is there, has been off the pace and I worry now about how tall we have gone. Surely Motlop the sub. Hollands and Dow very stiff.
Swans just named the tallest forward line I have ever seen.
In: P.Cripps, S.Docherty, M.Pittonet
Out: Z.Fisher (omitted), O.Hollands (omitted), P.Dow (omitted), C.Durdin (omitted)
R24 sub: Caleb Marchbank
Some lads were always going to be unlucky with a healthy list.
Good enough team to get the job done
IN: Cripps, Docherty, Pittonet.
OUT: Dow, Durdin, Fisher, Hollands.
EMERG: Dow, Fisher, Hollands, Motlop.
Hope Motlop is the sub.
Looking good.
Can't understand why we would go with Marchbank, lost a lot of run out of the side.
I've always been a wrap for Marchbank. But i reckon he is pretty lucky to getting a gig this week as it hurts our team balance, as does 2 rucks.
That being said. If we believe Marchbank is good enough to be picked in our finals side, why haven't we signed him up for next year yet?
Marchbank is our 7th defender.
Pittonet should not play IMO. In poor conditions 2 ruckman + McKay too top heavy.
Let TDK ruck for 20 mins a quarter and H can relieve him. The ball is going to be mostly on the ground. Pitonet will be a liability.
Despite my hopes to the contrary, we saw against GWS that Harry can’t ruck.
The Swans have named one genuine ruckman, one very capable ruck/forward, and two competent part-timers. We’d be crazy to go in with just one ruck.
Very suprised Marchbank is there, has been off the pace and I worry now about how tall we have gone. Surely Motlop the sub. Hollands and Dow very stiff.
We have to go with 7 defenders. Doc will play in the midfield and Marchy will be needed against the Swans’ very tall forward line. They’ve effectively gone with one ruck and three ruck/forwards.
Well I never would have picked Marchbank in a million years, too slow and will cost us I reckon. We'll see in a little over 24hrs.
Marchbank is our 7th defender.
It will be either a master stroke or a disaster stroke.
Well I never would have picked Marchbank in a million years, too slow and will cost us I reckon. We'll see in a little over 24hrs.
Not too slow for the Swans’ ruck/forwards.
They’ll stretch us, regardless of the weather, but we’ll have an advantage when the ball hits the ground.
Blues by 5 goals.
Coll vs Melbourne showing you need quick contested players not an overly tall lineup that flounder in the wet. Playing too many talls isn't the smart way to go imo.
Marchbank is our 7th defender.
Docherty can play as a defender......because he is.
....and here is an idea...we could've picked another midfielder.....because we have plenty available who are not in the side.
Coll vs Melbourne showing you need quick contested players not an overly tall lineup that flounder in the wet. Playing too many talls isn't the smart way to go imo.
Smaller forwards and better running players looks the goods in the game tonight. Especially being wet.
We need to pick a team for how we want to play, not worry about other teams. We seem to have a contrarian style that confounds experts like Hoyne, and if that's our go, then we need to make selections accordingly.
Coll vs Melbourne showing you need quick contested players not an overly tall lineup that flounder in the wet. Playing too many talls isn't the smart way to go imo.
Coll Melb showing you dont pick guys who have been regulars, McDonald is a witches hat, Fritch can't get near it. Melb playing bruise free at the minute.
This is why I fear the Marchbank selection, he has looked slow and rusty as fark every time he has come on, Syd gonna lick their lips when he's in the ground.
So who do we want to play as the sub?
Dow
Hollands
Fisher
Motlop
All offer something different. Depends what we think we are short of i think.
Holland offers endurance....not really a sub quality, but has played more than the others
Dow offers midfield depth....but less impact
Fisher offers speed....but probably lacks the aggressiveness needed for a final
Motlop offers the ability to turn a game.....but if we are losing the ball in the middle/backline, won't be able to help in that area to make an impact.
Personally, i would've preferred Kennedy as the sub as he offers more versatility with his midfield work and marking/forward ability.
Out of what we've got though.....i think i'd actually choose Dow.
Our clearance work is our strength. I'd hate to lose it if we lost a midfielder to injury. Dow would ensure we always have that strength.
I reckon we are playing tricks. Will be a late change.
Motlop makes the best x factor sub.
Hollands probably the most versatile.
Fisher can be a live wire. The taller line up is interesting. Someone must be proppy imho.
after watching tonights game, surely there is a late injury and another running player bought in!?!?
Motlop should be starting in the team, Marchbank is a strange selection imo.
As I said previously I would have wanted Kennedy in the team..
Dow is unlucky and if he doesnt play finals will be elsewhere next season imho.
Not too slow for the Swans’ ruck/forwards.
They’ll stretch us, regardless of the weather, but we’ll have an advantage when the ball hits the ground.
Blues by 5 goals.
Geez. If you're right, the drinks are on me.
We need to pick a team for how we want to play, not worry about other teams. We seem to have a contrarian style that confounds experts like Hoyne, and if that's our go, then we need to make selections accordingly.
I think that’s right Paul.
The GWS games are a good example. Newy flogged Toby in the first game but Guv got the job in the second. Admittedly, winning the second game wasn’t the prime objective but developing a team that will be competitive in finals was.
Vossy clearly puts some thought into countering opposition strengths but his main focus is on making it damn hard for the opposition to counter our strengths.
Many supporters will be concerned about how we’ll cope with Papley, Heeney, Blakey and Gulden. I’m more concerned about how Sydney will attempt to deal with Curnow, McKay, Cripps, Cerra, Walsh, Acres, Saad, Weitering, Docherty, Martin, Owies, De Koning, Newman, McGovern, Hewett, Cottrell, Cuningham, Kemp, Pittonet, et al.
Smaller forwards and better running players looks the goods in the game tonight. Especially being wet.
Yet it was Gawn and Petracca that brought Melb back into the game and neither is quick, smalls weren't so influential that the Filth felt compelled to use Ginnivan until the dying minutes and if the Dees had kicked straight it might have been a different story.
Good players in good form, that is what is needed in finals, recipe football doesn't cut it.
I think the Filth made a mistake, when they subbed Cameron out Cox tired and Gawn came into the game which nearly cost the Filth. Gawn starts taking the pill out of the ruck and feeding the runners on the outside but they couldn't kick straight.
Motlop should be starting in the team, Marchbank is a strange selection imo.
As I said previously I would have wanted Kennedy in the team..
Dow is unlucky and if he doesnt play finals will be elsewhere next season imho.
Cunningham, Owies and Marchbank very lucky to be selected, but all can play, so fingers crossed
I would have found room for Motlop and Dow to provide a bit more foot speed
Yet it was Gawn and Petracca that brought Melb back into the game and neither is quick.
I’m pretty confident that we’ll have reasonable conditions for night footy tomorrow but, if it was wet and slippery, wouldn’t you opt for strong, steady players over smaller speedy players.
Cunningham, Owies and Marchbank very lucky to be selected, but all can play, so fingers crossed
I would have found room for Motlop and Dow to provide a bit more foot speed
I'd have gone Motlop and Dow for Cunningham and Marchback. Cunningham then would have been my sub.
I’m pretty confident that we’ll have reasonable conditions for night footy tomorrow but, if it was wet and slippery, wouldn’t you opt for strong, steady players over smaller speedy players.
I think we have some of the most mobile and capable big men in the AFL, it's our natural advantage and I think we must leverage it. No matter the weather, I'd hate to have to line up on Charlie or Harry inside F50, they have terrific recovery even when they don't clunk it, and Owies and Cunningham have smarts.
We're not going to win a foot race against the likes of Papley and Gulden, so best to make sure they don't get it on the outside.
So who's the Sub?
Yet it was Gawn and Petracca that brought Melb back into the game and neither is quick, smalls weren't so influential that the Filth felt compelled to use Ginnivan until the dying minutes and if the Dees had kicked straight it might have been a different story.
Good players in good form, that is what is needed in finals, recipe football doesn't cut it.
I think the Filth made a mistake, when they subbed Cameron out Cox tired and Gawn came into the game which nearly cost the Filth. Gawn starts taking the pill out of the ruck and feeding the runners on the outside but they couldn't kick straight.
Petracca is a strong contested Mid, one of the best and very suitable for those conditions, agree on the Cameron sub out.....was a mistake as Cox who had rucked well was knackered.
Who's our Sub?
I think it has to be Dow, can come into the Mid and allow a reshuffle if needed with guys like Hewett or Cerra going to flanks.
The team we've picked looks strong, and it looks flexible, lots of aerobic capacity that might be the difference in heavy conditions as it's often the players who can push to space or close space on repeat efforts that get the job done.
Petracca is a strong contested Mid, one of the best and very suitable for those conditions, agree on the Cameron sub out.....was a mistake as Cox who had rucked well was knackered.
I think LP took my comment as load up with fast small players. Gawn taking control is the best ruck in the league that you play no matter what the conditions. Not forgetting he is one of the fittest players in terms of endurance. Even though he is huge in size. Petracca is one of the most electric players and a size that can play against tall, small, fast, or strong players. He has to play. Mind you he didn’t do much in the first half. Oliver was almost non existent in the first half. Melbourne fed their talls with poor delivery in the first 3 quarters. Melbourne struggled to have crumbing players pick up the spoils. Melbourne under high pressure struggle. Every side does. They just fail to rebound as well as some sides do. Collingwood showed this tonight. Just as we did when we played them both when the heat is on. They both drive hard in the last quarter but if you establish a decent lead before the last quarter, you are a chance to win. Petracca can only do so much. Same goes for Gawn. My comment was based on a first half of football. A trend. I wouldn’t want us to fully load up with tall marking targets that fail once the ball comes to ground. We still need hard bodies in the middle. This appears where the game is won. At the stoppages which is one of our strengths. Faster running types to carry the ball on the rebound might help us win. Defence, middle of the ground and forward. Don’t bet Charlie will kick a bag of 5 goals, and Harry doing the same. They will bring the ball to ground often and then starts the sh@t fight for the ball. The same goes in our defensive 50m. We can’t load up with the tallest line up we have. Unless there is some leg speed and ability to clear the ball forward. Collingwood are genuine and have a balanced squad. They are the side to beat. Them and Brisbane which we haven’t won against recently or probably long term. We have beaten Collingwood with tough pressure footy. We have to beat Sydney next, which is not a choice thing. It just has to happen no matter what. To potentially see Collingwood in a grand final on the final stage. Oops, I just took off the lid.
Motlop for Cunningham
Hollands for Marchbank
Cunningham sub ::)
The last thing we can do is be predictable.
If we listened to the scribes we would have traded TDK, rucked Pitto and played SoJ in 2nd ruck, that was a month or two back, now the very same people tell us we must play TDK solo and in the absence of SoJ 2nd ruck Harry leaving Pitto out. The people making these comments aren't tacticians they are weathervanes.
Thankfully our MC do not listen to the media / social media screamers, of course if we fall to get up they be "I told you so" like the options they offered were better, but nobody is better placed or more experienced than Voss and that includes nearly all of the media types, maybe Hodge has the license to make genuine critique, the others not so much as most of them failed to impact finals.
On Motlop, I think it's wise he sits out for the first final, if he has one clear shortfall it's work ethic / aerobic capacity and in finals work ethic is non-negotiable, you've got to be prepared to run your guts out! If we get past this final then bring Motlop in when those opposition legs are just a tad more rubbery and he can have a real impact.
Why is Motlop not playing ??
Wet greasy conidtions with plenty of talls in the team, we need some smaller guys crumbing the fall of the ball.
Why is Motlop not playing ??
Is he fit enough for the 4-Qtr finals slog in heavy conditions?
Maybe Sub?
But I'd prefer Dow as a Sub for reasons I have already mentioned. Dow has proven himself to be quite strong over the ball on the inside contests, he can stand up in the tackles, it goes a long way in heavy conditions, he also has enough straight line pace to run down the odd Swan or two, and finally he allows other talent to be moved where needed.
For me Motlop, Fisher and Hollands don't release other players, unless of course our plan is already to keep Doc out of the Midfield and then Fisher might go to HBF allowing Doc into the Mid. But I suspect Doc is already tagged for Mid rotations at some stage.
But Doc isn't better than Dow inside stoppages, in fact excluding ball use inside stoppages Dow might be as good as any we have bar our captain.
Pretty sh1t luck for Kennedy in my opinion, to be injured at just the wrong time of season and we've no VFL team playing finals, it hurts us not treating the VFL with enough respect and so when we need it we don't have it.
Far too much +ve Carlton press this week for my liking! Thankfully Maynard will take some of the attention away. Sydney have been ignored, but quietly been in some reasonable form as well.
Don't think it will be a good night for footy - hopefully we can play ugly better than Sydney. Whatever it is, it won't be a easy game.
Dow as sub for me - he has shown he can and will contribute and is a good option to go into the midfield if others need to be moved around (as has been mentioned)
Bad luck on the weather WASurfer, but hopefully you enjoy your time here.
Bad luck on the weather WASurfer, but hopefully you enjoy your time here.
Forecast is moderating, excluding the colder temperature I suspect it will be similar conditions to last night.
I am not surprised by the team, I thought there would be a difficult choice between Cuningham and Fogarty but it is Motlop who misses out. I thought that if Acres played then Hollands would miss out. I always thought Pittonett would play especially with an injured Silvagni and I thought there would be a choice between Marchbank and Cincotta but it was Fisher who missed out which isn't surprising after the mistakes he made last game.
I'd have gone Motlop and Dow for Cunningham and Marchback. Cunningham then would have been my sub.
There's a possibility we'll loose Gov. Marchbank is coverage.
Showers should pretty much be cleared by late afternoon. Will be bloody cold in the bleaches but hot enough on the ground. Need the wind to drop and we'll feel more comfortable.
It’s still windy on the Bellarine but seems to be easing and the birds aren’t flying backwards now.
Real Windy in the burbs out east and its going to be slippery under foot and Id expect a repeat of conditions last night at best.
If we start well and get a score on the board early then its going to be hard to reel us in, cant see the Swans going in with all those talls either...
Windy in Coburg. Lost my packet of chips I was carrying it was that blowy. Massive gusts.
Playing the conditions would likely suit Kennedy ahead of most kid options as he can kick a goal and is good at the ground ball.
Yep, very windy in the northern suburbs, cold as hell. Rained on and off, very patchy. More coming.
Going to terrible conditions to play footy in, but worse to be watching the game. Hopefully we still get the 90k+ we are expecting because it will give our boys a lift.
So Facebook has a feature where your memories come up on your feed. On this day:
Carlton who finished 9th on the ladder, but got into the 8 thanks to the Drug Cheats, defeated Richmond at the MCG in 2013 in the first elimination final during that series. We went on to play (and lose in Sydney against the Swans in week 2).
There would be an ironic symmetry if somehow Sydney (who should have finished 9th if not for an umpiring mishap in Adelaide!) were able to knock off Carlton, only to have to return next week to the MCG and face Melbourne...
Now, that being said, I don't want it to happen, but this spooky.
So Facebook has a feature where your memories come up on your feed. On this day:
Carlton who finished 9th on the ladder, but got into the 8 thanks to the Drug Cheats, defeated Richmond at the MCG in 2013 in the first elimination final during that series. We went on to play (and lose in Sydney against the Swans in week 2).
There would be an ironic symmetry if somehow Sydney (who should have finished 9th if not for an umpiring mishap in Adelaide!) were able to knock off Carlton, only to have to return next week to the MCG and face Melbourne...
Now, that being said, I don't want it to happen, but this spooky.
Yea that came up for me today too! However my take on it is how beautiful it would be to replicate that win tonight 👏🏽 let’s go blues!!!
So Facebook has a feature where your memories come up on your feed. On this day:
Carlton who finished 9th on the ladder, but got into the 8 thanks to the Drug Cheats, defeated Richmond at the MCG in 2013 in the first elimination final during that series. We went on to play (and lose in Sydney against the Swans in week 2).
There would be an ironic symmetry if somehow Sydney (who should have finished 9th if not for an umpiring mishap in Adelaide!) were able to knock off Carlton, only to have to return next week to the MCG and face Melbourne...
Now, that being said, I don't want it to happen, but this spooky.
Yup. Got the same memory.
The way i took it. Carlton won a final at the MCG 10 years ago. That will be repeated tonight.
I had the Malthouse Bradbury meme come up.
I'd suggest our MC has forced the Swans into selecting Melican, who hasn't played since Rnd 18.
What time do they confirm the Sub?
I'd suggest our MC has forced the Swans into selecting Melican, who hasn't played since Rnd 18.
What time do they confirm the Sub?
An hour before i believe
The last time I was this nervous about playing in a final, I don't think I had any pubic hair.......
You know what pisses me off, why when they started at 7:20pm last night do we have to start at 7:50pm tonight?
You know what pisses me off, why when they started at 7:20pm last night do we have to start at 7:50pm tonight?
It does seem a little pointless, but I think the rationale is partly scheduling around other TV programs, and partly because folks can sleep in tomorrow, but not on Friday morning.
LP School night v weekend.
Less than three hours to go - getting excited (nervously so)
I'd suggest our MC has forced the Swans into selecting Melican, who hasn't played since Rnd 18.
What time do they confirm the Sub?
Charlie and Harry has one goal between them last time Melican played down back and I reckon the Swans are gambling on a repeat which given the appalling weather might be on the cards and Id be getting Motlop into the starting lineup...see Bobby Hill last night.
So Facebook has a feature where your memories come up on your feed. On this day:
Carlton who finished 9th on the ladder, but got into the 8 thanks to the Drug Cheats, defeated Richmond at the MCG in 2013 in the first elimination final during that series. We went on to play (and lose in Sydney against the Swans in week 2).
There would be an ironic symmetry if somehow Sydney (who should have finished 9th if not for an umpiring mishap in Adelaide!) were able to knock off Carlton, only to have to return next week to the MCG and face Melbourne...
Now, that being said, I don't want it to happen, but this spooky.
We lost that game because of the pathetic turf that kept lifting. >:(
You know what pisses me off, why when they started at 7:20pm last night do we have to start at 7:50pm tonight?
I missed the start last night because Adelaide are 30 minutes behind.
Anyone have any suggestions on what’s the best time to get to the ground, both for ease of access and build up.
Is there much pregame entertainment aside from bars?
This’ll be my first live game in a while.
I did see last nights game but only arrived a few mins before bounce down.
Charlie and Harry has one goal between them last time Melican played down back and I reckon the Swans are gambling on a repeat which given the appalling weather might be on the cards and Id be getting Motlop into the starting lineup...see Bobby Hill last night.
In the sh1t conditions I think we need smarts not just ability, I'll back in the MC on the likes of Owies, Cunningham and Martin.
I reckon we'll see Walsh spend some time forward tonight as well, his best games seem to come in these conditions.
You know what pisses me off, why when they started at 7:20pm last night do we have to start at 7:50pm tonight?
Im pleased, my scheduled upgrade is starting at 5.30pm instead of 7.00pm. If we started the game at 7.20pm I was guaranteed to miss at least half the game before, but now I might make it in time for the game to start. Those 30 mins are worth a lot to me.
This has been a long time coming. It's fair to say that emotions are on the way up whilst rationality is on the way down. AKA flipped lid!!!!
Before I burst with excitement and anxiety, I'd like to wish you all a fulfilling return to finals footy. Win, lose, or draw. We've witnessed the big ship turn towards the home straight. The future is bright for Carlton.
Be loud and proud supporting our boys. Stay safe and enjoy the game.
Go Blues.
In the sh1t conditions I think we need smarts not just ability, I'll back in the MC on the likes of Owies, Cunningham and Martin.
I reckon we'll see Walsh spend some time forward tonight as well, his best games seem to come in these conditions.
Motlop is a goalkicker and has some smarts imho and is a most improved player after his stint in the VFL where he had midfield time and learnt a few tricks. Cuningham has been down in recent games and Martin has also tailed off so Id like a bit more insurance in the small forward area.
Cincotta is likely to be the major game breaker tonight. These conditions suit players used to VFL conditions.
I'm happy with the team. Marchbank is a strange one but they must have a reason/ match up.
Im as nervous as hell
I'm happy with the team. Marchbank is a strange one but they must have a reason/ match up.
Or a late change.
Good luck kids, at the ground, bloody chilly.
Go Blues
I'm happy with the team. Marchbank is a strange one but they must have a reason/ match up.
Sydney has three tall forwards plus Hickey. Marchbank, as the seventh defender, gives us the defensive rotations to cover them.
Motlop in as sub
I cant see Acres out there
I cant see Acres out there
Am told he never warms up 🤷🏻♀️ according to a podcast my son listens to 🤷🏻♀️