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It's too early to say how many spots will be available on our list come draft day, but if we do have a late pick in the ND (which might happen if Dunkley doesn't get drafted by us), I think we should consider taking a shot on Sydney Uni's Tom Young. And if not in the ND, then perhaps as a rookie. I was really impressed by him when our reserves side played them. He just won the NEAFL MVP. He's still only 23. He's a good size and a versatile player. I can see him holding down a 3rd defender type role. He might be a better option for our list than someone like Harry Marsh, and if Harry does get delisted, I would be more inclined to get Young.
The success of the Bulldogs this year has influenced my thinking about where the game is headed. The Bulldogs actually have a rather shallow list and have often played several mediocre or inexperienced players and still managed to play well. Two things that they do a bit differently than other clubs is 1) not worry about losing the hitouts, but still focus on getting the clearance and 2) get the defenders to participate in a hard running drive to the forward line, even if this leaves the defence exposed on the rebound. These tactics make them a difficult team to play against. They do give up a fair number of turnover goals, but nonetheless manage to structure up well when the ball does get turned over, which is something they obviously need to do with the kind of game plan they have.
The loss of Malceski has often been noted as a reason for our lack of defensive rebound this year. I hope we don't lose Jetta, because it will not be easy to replace his combination of pace and foot skills.
Regardless of the trade ban outcome, I would not be chasing a lumbering ruckman. There are always a few players that get delisted by other clubs, like Laidler, that represent good value when at the right club. We have a long history in this regard and this should again be our focus this year.
The success of the Bulldogs this year has influenced my thinking about where the game is headed. The Bulldogs actually have a rather shallow list and have often played several mediocre or inexperienced players and still managed to play well. Two things that they do a bit differently than other clubs is 1) not worry about losing the hitouts, but still focus on getting the clearance and 2) get the defenders to participate in a hard running drive to the forward line, even if this leaves the defence exposed on the rebound. These tactics make them a difficult team to play against. They do give up a fair number of turnover goals, but nonetheless manage to structure up well when the ball does get turned over, which is something they obviously need to do with the kind of game plan they have.
The loss of Malceski has often been noted as a reason for our lack of defensive rebound this year. I hope we don't lose Jetta, because it will not be easy to replace his combination of pace and foot skills.
Regardless of the trade ban outcome, I would not be chasing a lumbering ruckman. There are always a few players that get delisted by other clubs, like Laidler, that represent good value when at the right club. We have a long history in this regard and this should again be our focus this year.
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