I think the answer is the conditions plain and simple. It has forced us to play a game style we are neither used to or comfortable executing. We have developed a game style that is based on clean ball use and reliant on a small number of inside midfielders winning the ball and getting it out the back of the contest to our better ball users who spread and break quickly. Wet weather football nullifies this more effectively than any defensive strategy. Wet weather football means contested football, stoppages, tackles, strength and relentless, but not clean, ball movement.
Fremantle plays a defensive style based on high numbers around stoppages and extra numbers in defense. They have strong bodied midfielders who, while not necessarily the quickest or most skilled, thrive on winning the hard ball in close. The wet weather magnified the strengths of their game plan and hindered ours.
Similarly, GWS are are high contested ball side. They have the talent to take advantage of turnovers which in wet conditions there is typically plenty. They enjoy the in and under contested play and again their game is not based on high possession and uncontested football but rather quick long kicks to contests. The wet weather again suited their game and hindered ours.
Lastly we miss Foley. More than any other players injured at the moment Foley's absence is making the biggest difference. He, Tuck and Cotchin win us the ball and get it out to the likes of Lids, Conca, Grigg and Martin.
If the weather improves for the Adelaide game we will be able to revert to our game plan but until we have the experience and strength in to our younger bodies, these type of games will hurt us and reveal our vulnerabilities.