Geez wee pooed ourselves again in the last, but i'll take a falling over the line win over a loss everyday of the week. As my brother pointed out, it makes it a bit sweeter seeing the scum supporters get their hopes up and getting all excited only to be totally deflated.
Early in the game carlton managed to split us open a number of times, simpson in particular was finding space, but we managed to shut this down. It was particularily satisfying to see carlton struggle to move the ball forward, while listening to the scum supporters behind us constantly moaning about how easily we were moving the ball out of defense.
Ive been an advocate for grithiffs down back, but from what i saw last night, i would have to agree with the comments about him not being a natural backman. He does ok in pack situations, but one on one he would often be in the wrong position allowing his opponent easy marks. He also seems to lack the ability to make the late spoil, somthing all good backmen can do.
Chaplin, i thought, was important. He takes controll of the backline and in the third when the filth kicked three quick goals he settled the players around him, pointing out what they should be doing and providing that experienced calming influence that we have lacked when the opposition get a run on. When he went off injured early in last it coincided with carlton really getting on top of us.
I liked the way the 'softie' hit the packs, specially when robinson got sorted out.
Jackson was ok last night. I can tolerate that sort of performance, but he will always be slow of mind. I think it is just a pipe dream that someone like arnot can push him out, but if guys can put pressure on with consitent performance at coburg .......... perhaps ...........
Nice to travel the length of the country to beat the filth, for a change.