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http://www.hpnfooty.com/?p=30343 Some interesting analysis on how we've narrowed our avenues to attack this year without Watts & Garlett, compared to last year with some scoring graphs and how better teams have blunted the attack. Particularly interesting was the contention "Instead of almost completely forgoing the kicks at goal from pockets and low value wide spots, they may need to field players who can plausibly threaten from wide angles. Establishing at least the illusion that leads and shots will eventuate from there should open up other parts of the forward line." And on some defensive issues with getting the right mix, Jetta's contested one on one's: "This year Jetta has lost 39% of such contests, last year his rate was 27.5%" A result of having to take the oppositions second best forward on many occasions. With a lead in to the selection of Petty being one such move to address our defensive mix and help out Jetta.

Why? We went through the pain of defence at all costs with minimal scoring and Roos was making a lot of progress. Now we're all about attack and gave forgotten how to defend. Why can't MFC do both?

Hey guys, Long time reader, first time poster here. Love all your work. I think the brilliant result in last night's draft has finally kicked me into gear to contribute. One guy I'm particularly happy we managed to nab for a bargain is Oscar McDonald, and not just for the heartwarming brothers in arms story (I'm a sucker for that too). He looks an athletic type like Tom, but more natural as a footballer. He seems to kick well, and he can mark. Maybe he can play forward, possibly even pinch hit, but most have him pegged as a defender. Now, is it just me, or do we now have three young key defenders in Tom, Oscar and Frost with something in common: toe. Frost is an athlete, with his big strides and smooth movement. I'm not exactly sure how he's performed in the sprints and time trials but pretty well I think, and from what I've seen in his GWS games, he is a great runner. Oscar is reportedly quick too. He may not reach the elite speed and endurance of Tom, but then a rare few in the league could. I reckon the three together is interesting. We have also added Lumumba as a running back, so even with Oscar developing for another couple of years, we should see a significant step up in pace and athleticism in defence. McDonald, Frost and Lumumba all have that burst through half back as a feature of their game. Considering this, a couple of things to ponder: - How might this athleticism play out on game day? How will they shape up against key forwards? (I think it certainly won't hurt, and it could be fun to watch - I love watching Tommy Mac run. But they still need to be disciplined, make good decisions and have the strength not just speed required to beat the big guys - which I think they do). - Do you think this key back speed intake is a bit of a fluke, or a recruiting strategy? (Obviously Lumumba was a need for half-back run but with Frost and McDonald, who were picked up as key position players, the athleticism almost seems like a bonus). Anyway, bit long winded there but the thought of this Usain Bolt-like key defence system for years to come came to me today. It's interesting. Discuss, if you like.