demoncat

I think that is what people are missing from this game when they complain about us not thrashing them by 10+ goals. A bit like Essendon last week, we were forced to play on their terms. And unfortunately for those watching, those terms were based around playing a mind numbing unconstested possession game. That game style was an admission by Port that they knew they couldn't take us on in general play, and that their only path to victory was to make it a low scoring game where they might have been able to sneak a few goals and keep the score close. That in of itself is a testament to us. So yes, while we could have (perhaps should have) had cleaner entry into our forward 50 and scored a few more goals, we were never going to score a tonne with Port playing that style of game. And the fact is, we didn't need to.

The Brown/TMac/Weid conundrum only gets harder! It would be really stiff to drop Weid after what was a career best performance, but as some others have said its difficult to see how those three can fit into the same forward line. I'm also split on TMac at the moment. It's clear that his form has dropped off considerably since his amazing start to 2021, but its also clear that he plays an important role in our structure that helps players like Brown and Fritsch to shine. Not to mention his great aerobic abilities. Having said that you have to wonder if he's only averaging a goal a game and is repeatedly getting out marked, is his mere presence in our structure enough? Clearly Goody and co. reckon it is, but gee I think Weid did well last night and if TMac's dip in form continues, I'd be curious to see what dropping TMac for Weid would do for us (for better or worse!)

Younger fan here, so I haven't seen much of Mitch Brown beyond games for the Dees. Does his style of play differ much from Weid's? I just wonder if there is something about the way he goes about his footy that Goody prefers him. Would be curious to know what kind of discussions are going on there.

Big moment for Weideman if true. Curious what people's 'pass' marks will be for him if he comes into the side. Personally, I don't think he needs to kick a bag of goals - he just needs to show that he is willing to compete and follow up with second efforts. Goals will come if he does this consistently. Unfortunately though it seems that this is the one part of his game that he has been missing. Fingers crossed he can take that next step.

Great points. I think someone posted an except from the Mongrel Punt's review of the game where the author spoke about the importance of guys like ANB and Harmes playing their roles. This quote sums it up well: "They’re prepared to play defensive roles if necessary, sacrifice their own games, and work as an individual toward a collective goal. That is what makes champion teams." Being on the ground lets you see all of the off-ball work that we do so well and you really get to appreciate the defensive work that players like Harmes are putting in, even if they might not seem like they're having a great game when they get the ball.

Expecting a close contest with both sides looking to flex their muscles. Dogs will be hungry but I think we've got the talent and system to absorb their pressure and keep them to a relatively low score. Dees by 12.