Rd 4: Pre Game Pressure: Carlton vs. Western Bulldogs

[Baggers]

I must admit I would be loath to bring them along too quickly. They are developing and I am very happy to see that after years of having nobody develop at all.
Both DVR and Cunningham have one thing that may get them in sooner rather than later: their pace. Our centre structure is very much under construction at the moment, but both of these guys managed match-ups that allowed them to get a few really significant break aways from the centre. Then, with decent kicks, they managed to get the ball into dangerous positions very quickly.
They also used that pace to run guys down in the middle, where Murphy, Gibbs and Cripps would struggle to make something similar with their lesser speeds.
Physically I don't think either DVR or Cunningham are ready yet either. A guy like Josh Kennedy would bury them. And both lads can get lost for some periods of time yet. But they have shown enough to suggest that they are not that far away.

Really good observations Capt Crash. I do think though that DVRs body has certainly gained some muscle (along with Gowers) and would be ready for the next stage of his development - a taste of the big time. Cuningham will need to work on his strength though. What I liked about his last game was his footy brain - he gave off quickly to blokes in better positions and can use his turn of speed to advantage. As raw as both boys are, they both look like footballers and IF they can continue to improve and develop will certainly give us some dash through the midfield. Much needed dash. DVRs delivery by foot really is close to elite.