Really like the look of Arnot, thought he was fantastic. His effort to gain first possession is first rate, and he is quite good at finding a link up guy. Lacks that burst of speed to get him clear of contests, but his toughness around the contest quells that to a certain extent. Like his tackling ability as well. Thought he wasn't to far behind Brock McLean as the best inside mid for the game, and it was his first game. Really looking forward to the development of this kid.
In regards to Todd Elton, I would really want to see what he is like on the lead. Great contested mark, and great below his knees. Reminds me of a quicker Vickery. Interesting to see his development as well. Dont think he will play this season unless our forward or back stocks take a significant hit, but everything his done screams at me that there is every chance he can make his way into the best 22 in 18 months.
Griffiths. Attacked the footy for a backman before getting KOd. Dont think hes a backman however. For what its worth, Ive been hit there AND expected it. It knocks you around something savage. Dont think its weak at all, especially in this day and age where concussion is such a huge thing. No problems with what happened coming off and ensuring health (it IS the doctors call anyway). And those who call them weak are either remarkably old school, or down right unrealistic.
Wright. Did some good things, did some poor things. Very good below his knees, and has fairly clean hands. Big booming kick and took some strong marks. Gave to much space for his opponent on more than one occassion, but thought he was better than average. Especially considering its his first game as an 18 year old who was picked extremely late in the draft.
OHanlon. Popped up and did some nice things. Good kick too. The game probably didnt suit him being so scrappy. A really hard game to tell anything from.
Turner. Shows footy nauce. Not as quick as I was expecting, but chased hard and did some nice things. Gets generally into a good position and uses it well. A while off, but on that performance, not lost in the woods.
Derickx. Would have loved to see him in the ruck and moving around the ground more. Showed promising signs. Not a lead up forward, but again, some nice things. Dont know the ruck thoughts in regards to a depth chart but I wouldnt be surprised if it went:
Maric
Vickery
Dericks
Graham
Browne
Elton
Everyone else didnt really show all that much different to what I expect. Helbig and Batch turned it over in situations they usually dont. Not worried about either of those two though, thought Batch was extremely accountable and added some quality when he got it for the most part. Wouldnt worry me either if they both played in the guts and got more closer with those positions and then step back into the AFL.
