They had a pretty intense intra-club practice match which was quite enjoyable to watch. When I got there I found it quite difficult to recognise the players as there were a few new guys and they were wearing different numbers, had new hairstyles and some had bulked up.
Thanks for the report Harry. Was hoping you’d get to a session some time, so you could give us a knowledgeable rundown. I’ve had the same difficulty trying to pick out players, no numbers on jumpers though.
Good you got to see a match. Bit restricted at Punt Road, because of the centre wicket being roped off. But from the sessions I’ve been to, they have been concentrating on game-related situations. And it’s good to see the constant moving of the ball and a more intense training style. Talking is encouraged during sessions, which is good, because that’s been a criticism of many, over the years. Because I don’t think players talk enough out on the ground. Apart from anything else, I reckon we get a lot more holding the ball decisions against us than is necessary because players just don’t seem to talk out there enough.
Apparently, McGuane has blonde hair, if that’s any help.
Rodan and Raines have been standouts on other occasions.
Both Roach and Raines look to have benefited from two pre seasons in the gym and I read somewhere that Roachy said he’s now up to 80kg.
Roach has been out there other weeks, so not sure why he would have been missing for this game. The others you mentioned have been missing at various stages.
When training first started back, Hartigan seemed to be more in the rehab group, and has joined the main group over the last few weeks. Which is good to see.
Tambling will no doubt have to deal with taggers through his career, so it’s good they’re giving him some grounding in what he’s going to be dealing with, so early on. It’s not going to be free flowing and easy, so might as well introduce them to what they’re going to be up against.
Only got a brief glimpse of Tambling last week. He seemed to do the basics ok, under no pressure, which is a good start. Gives the impression that he’s pretty confident in his ability and just wants to get out there. At one stage, he was up against Rodan. Surprisingly, Tambling must have just lost sight of the footy and Rodan was easily able to win possession.
I guess it’s all a learning curve and getting used to the different pace, attention and intensity at this level.
