06-16-2021, 06:47 AM
(06-16-2021, 06:39 AM)DJC link Wrote:I tend not to post for a few days after a loss when my emotions are on a more even keel. However, by that time, most of what I want to say has been addressed.Backline doesnt work as team, you look at Richmond and now Melbourne and there seems plenty of communication and players seem to know when to cover for a mate or call out a player in marking contests.
One thing I do want to mention is Nic Newman's attempted mark and frightening impact with the SCG turf. There's no doubt that it was a courageous effort but is that what we want from our medium defenders?
Weitering had good position on Darling, until Newman took him out, and would have spoiled or marked. We were effectively two men out of the contest and West Coast crumbed and kicked to the square, eventually resulting in Jones missing an easy set shot. I know it's an instinctive thing for players to attempt to mark with the flight of the ball (although I think Newman was attempting to spoil) but hard-nosed defenders curb their instincts and do the team thing. Newman should have been focused on getting the loose ball, stopping West Coast crumbers from getting it, or tackling before they could get a disposal away. As it turned out West Coast had more players at the fall of the ball and two of ours were out of the contest with Darling gaining possession while Weitering was distracted.
It's only one incident but it's typical of the poor decision-making, poor positioning and lack of discipline that causes us to miss out on scoring opportunities at one end and give up goals at the other.
Points to Newman for courage but as you say it wasnt necessary with Weitering in control of Darling and highlights we have a backline of individuals rather than a unit working in cohesion.
But when you have moves like the inexperienced Stocker picking up the dangerous Ryan it also tells you there isnt much help from the coaches box either and probably endorses the decision to have a Review.