A fairly predictable win even if Richmond stuck with us a little longer than I expected.
The umpiring was puzzling, even when the decisions went our way. For example, Ollie Hollands was collected high after he kicked the ball and even though we marked his kick outside defensive 50, the ball was brought back to the goals for Hollands to take the free.
Rucklotto was in full swing, although the pendulum was firmly in Richmond's favour. Nank rucked well but I think that Pitto was confused by the calls that went against him and Nank's holds and blocks that went unpunished. It's hard to see how a bloke who rucks most of the game against a very physical opponent isn't given at least one free.
Charlie seemed to have a couple of players hanging off him every time he went near the ball and he didn't win a single free kick. I can't help but wonder if the umpies were told to lay off after his four frees last week and the media bleating about us scoring goals from frees. Even though it was a quiet game from Charlie, you can't help but think that he's about to cut loose and I was momentarily disappointed that he was put on ice in the last quarter. Harry had another big game around the ground and his work helps our transition immensely. Zac Williams as CHF when Harry goes into the ruck is interesting :
It was good to see Raz finally get his goal kicking mojo back. They were all shots that he would have made at his best but not on his form this season. His work rate has been good and he's been an adequate replacement for Cotters but kicking goals should be his bread and butter.
Cerra back in the side was great even if it meant that Georgie was on the pine for three quarters. It's a luxury to be able sub on a player of his ability.
Sam Walsh scoring multiple goals was great. He has only kicked five for the season after managing just six last year. Midfielders who score goals are gold and I think there's a determination, both from Sam and the team, to create more opportunities to score.
I'm always worried when we take the opposition lightly and going in without De Koning set the alarm bells off. Pitto was serviceable though and our midfield negated Nank's ruck dominance. Pitto matched him around the ground, particularly if you discount the goal Nank was gifted for an imaginary ruck infringement.
The only downer was Chugga's knee. Let's hope it's not too bad.
“Why don’t you knock it off with them negative waves? Why don’t you dig how beautiful it is out here? Why don’t you say something righteous and hopeful for a change?” Oddball
