Malthouse always seems to get the best out of his players regardless of where he coaches. I can see Carlton making the top 4 sadly. I just hope it takes them the first few rounds to get used to his game plan which put them off their game for the Opening Round.
What I can see is us matching them in the middle. For years they have had bigger bodied ball winners in the center which have dominated us and given their forwards every opportunity to score quickly. Players like Morris is crucial to keeping Betts in check but we need another small backman to shut down the likes of Garlett. I'm no convinced players like Houli, Newman, Conca or Ellis can do it
The new ruck rule will help the taller rucks around the ground but Big Ivan should be able to compete well in the middle. If he can block the run of Hampson to the contest it will negate his extra reach now that wrestling is ruled out. Maric seemed to compete well in the preseason games when the rule was being trialled so I have high hopes.
Vickery needs to play well for us to have an opportunity to win. We just can't rely on Jack to kick a bag even game. I'm also hopeful that A.Edwards can kick a couple and get the defenders guessing. I'm not sure how Knights will contribute but we really just need to split the defenders and we have every opportunity at winning.
They just seem to have the wood over us presently
