(06-21-2020, 01:35 PM)RiverRat date Wrote:Can't recall a recent game where the Blues delivered the ball so well by foot - accurate and to advantage - at least during the first 3 terms.Yes, we worked ultra-hard to create a lot of space, it has an impact in the end as you mention, but the benefit was we were rewarded with time to deliver the football as good as we ever have. Probably since the days of Fev. Having confidence in those clunking the football might also be a big factor, there was no hesitation in who to kick to.
Not surprised we were stuffed in the final term because the players ran so hard to pressure the pussies during the first 3 term (instead on simply trying to corral them, which has been the case for so many years). The noticeable difference in team intensity in the final term enabled the pussies to deliver the ball without pressure.
I think as time passes we'll learn to balance the intensity, and pick the moments which will help preserve some leg speed at the tail end. Interesting Teague claimed they had plenty of legs left, but he felt the increased pressure made them hesitant.
I think the Handbaggers are a good team on their own terms, but there is no escaping their better players are older players.
"Ruck, ruck, ruck, ruck ....... Ruck, ruck, ruck, ruck"