(05-05-2018, 02:09 PM)RiverRat link Wrote:I agree - Jones has pinched Weiters' spot - both of them are better as zoning defenders - especially if they don't have an opponent as Weiters didn't for much of today's game.

However, Jones is much faster, a more decisive defender, a better kick and has some capacity to play man-on-man - unlike Weiters who really struggles against a leading forward.

(05-05-2018, 02:09 PM)RiverRat link Wrote:I agree - Jones has pinched Weiters' spot - both of them are better as zoning defenders - especially if they don't have an opponent as Weiters didn't for much of today's game.

However, Jones is much faster, a more decisive defender, a better kick and has some capacity to play man-on-man - unlike Weiters who really struggles against a leading forward.

(05-05-2018, 09:00 AM)Baggers link Wrote:After a lot of hard work and ugly footy, it seemed the boys clicked... albeit against a side with a great attitude, lots of grunt but little finesse.

Weiters started well in terms of positioning himself, but dropped marks and his disposal was dreadful, BUT, as the game progressed he got his mojo back and was backing himself beautifully. Took many of his signature marks and disposal became deadly. Easily BOG. Was also vocal down back... good stuff.

Really liked Polson's game. Got some mongrel and kept us in it early. But as others have noted, he hasn't many tricks but could be an evolving tag... quick, strong, bit of mongrel and likes it in traffic.

A few of us noted a few weeks ago that SOJ wasn't cutting it as a forward and suggested that due to his good reading of the game/play and terrific work ethic that he'd potentially be a v.g. inside mid. Well, his game, especially in the 2nd half, in traffic, in the heat of battle, was bl00dy terrific. I'd be leaving him in the Magoos to learn on-ball craft and build fitness. He and Polson were tackling machines in tight.

Love Shaw's composure down back. I don't think he wasted a disposal... just what you want from a HB. Every kick seemed to hit a target, lace out, over long distance. Just needs to impose himself a little more on the contest.

Schumacher is a good pick-up. Looking forward to watching him develop. Could be a ripper.

The big Dutchman has got something special. We've got a future player with this guy...  once he learns the game. Really enthused about his potential.

Kerr seemed discombobulated for most of the first half, but once he 'woke up', he was hard at it and the Frangers found him a handful 

Lang showed his ability and smarts early on but tired. Another game or two in the Magoos and he'll be a solid inclusion to the seniors.

Lobbe looked right at home and helped keep us in the game in the first half... will be a top notch back up.

Sorry but JGM, unless something dramatic happens, will be delisted at years end.

(05-05-2018, 10:51 PM)townsendcalling link Wrote:Jones is a very strong mark and times his run well on most occasions.  At the moment it is all about ‘see ball, punch ball’ which can create opportunities for the opposition. If you mark thecball, when appropriate, you have full control.

(05-05-2018, 10:51 PM)townsendcalling link Wrote:Jones is a very strong mark and times his run well on most occasions.  At the moment it is all about ‘see ball, punch ball’ which can create opportunities for the opposition. If you mark thecball, when appropriate, you have full control.

(05-05-2018, 10:51 PM)townsendcalling link Wrote:Jones is a very strong mark and times his run well on most occasions.  At the moment it is all about ‘see ball, punch ball’ which can create opportunities for the opposition. If you mark thecball, when appropriate, you have full control.

(05-06-2018, 01:17 AM)Thryleon link Wrote:I've been thinking about this a little and the decision between Jones and weitering can be highlighted thus:

Weitering is a smarter defender than Jones.  He uses it better, will sum up options better and will run faster than he does today and is a future player who can play right now.  He won't get rag dolled for too much longer,  and will probably rely on his smarts and strength rather than athleticism.

Jones best is the best in the league BUT it comes with the caveat that he relies so heavily on his closing speed and ability to leave a man and go help someone else.  He's capable of winning and losing a match all in the same quarter. 

If you want a reliable ten year defender weitering plays.  If you want a highlight reel it's Jones.  The other alternative is teach them to play together.  They've shared a defense for what 8 matches?  Sometimes these things take time. 

Marchbank is a different type IMHO.  He's athletic but he's no key position player.