Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Reply #41 –
I don't get the doom and gloom. Too many 'throwing out the baby with bathwater' comments here at the mo.
Yes, a horrible 3rd qtr and yes, we didn't capitalize on our first half dominance.
This was the first game in real heat for our 'new' group, coaches included. Need to see the bigger picture and a perspective over weeks, not one game. The bottom line, we're a work in progress after so many changes - whereas the Fluffy Ducks are ready to challenge for a top 4 spot.
Vossy's first words in his media conference were that our intensity dropped in the 3rd and they dialled up their pressure. That's about mental toughness and discipline... issues that still remain. Our new coaches saw, first hand, that vulnerability - get to work, fellas.
The game plan is good, however last night we were a few blokes short on executing it well - Fogarty and Young in particular. An aging Saad has lost his effectiveness. Reidy aint ready for senior footy. They were our bottom four on the night.
Moir needs a breakout game - he's teasingly close. A concern.
We lacked a 'spark' player last night -- the Fluffy Ducks had Papley -- to capitalize on forward entries and bring serious emotion to the forward line - we were a flat forward bunch last night. For mine, our spark players are Frankie Evans and Talor Byrne. These two can also create something out of nothing. Ainsworth is an excellent addition. Kempy fumbled the fck out of the aggot at critical moments but will find his feet and confidence in time - there were enough promising signs.
Personally, I'd have H as the 2nd ruck, it brings him into the game and will raise his confidence. And Pitto has shown he's no slouch around goals.
And what the fck does going forward with humility, mean... (which I've heard us say)? What a crock of crap. There are wonderful and important places for humility... however going forward in a gladiatorial sport aint one of them. Humility can undermine boldness and even confidence. Be humble in victory, but not in game. Be bold, disciplined, focussed and ruthless in game.