wedgetail wrote:A few subtle shifts in the Eagles game plan today. Switched play across the ground frequently, played on quickly more often than last year, a better centre square set up resulting in more clearances (Boyd esp.), tackling was fierce and front on pressure resulted in many smothers of Sturt's kicks and handballs. Most players contributed well for the Eags today with Appleton and Ellis perhaps the weaker ones. Goldsworthy looked back to his early form of last year and Sinor looked like he belonged and may be missed next week with a possible ankle injury.
That's a fair summation. With Rowntree out I wasn't sure how well we would go in the midfield given how important he was for us last year. But O'brien has replaced him well and unlike so many ex-AFL players who come to our competition, he actually looks serious about playing to the best of his ability and putting his body on the line. Boyd's game was the best I've seen him play for the club. Agreed, he looks fitter than ever before. Poole also played close to the best game I've seen from him. He showed in the last half of last season how important he can be and with Rowntree out he will be even more important as that nuggety, tough, in close onballer. Goldy had a great game from the half back line but his challenge will be to keep that standard up. The last couple of years he has started as well early but then faded as the season has progressed. We need constant output from him. Redden was huge at the centre bounces and gave us first use of the ball. With Borholm the support, we must have close to the best ruck combo in the competition. Yarran and Ellis showed a hell of a lot of promise. Ellis in particular appears to have added some extra strength to help him cope a bit better with stronger opponents. Didn't notice Appleton at all and Sinor was quiet but as noted, got injured so can't really rate him.
Where is Schwartz? Is he still with the club? Can't believe Von Bertouch still isn't a regular in our team. I have always thought he is our best tall defender but Godden seems to like a shorter backline. Maybe it was strategic since Sturt didn't appear to have a single forward over 6 foot.