Kirkswan
Premium Platinum
I agree that Carlton are going to be a threat, but I'm not seeing that until they get a few more back. I think barring injury, we'll take them in a fortnight... but I am pretty happy we only play them once!Good on ya Kirky for having a go. End of the day, we are all just casual, albeit passionate, observers of our great game. Each of us viewing from our own perspective, with our own biases, and each with something to add to the conversation.
i actually like the look of the Swannies. Given the game is little more than a series of 50/50 contests, the consistency of our boys to do better than break even, and even dominate, in said contests, over the full course of a game, has me feeling really positive about our chances. That across-the-ground strength also allows us to "carry" blokes that are not quite "up for it" on any given day for whatever reason. Then, of course, we have so many gamebreakers that stand up when challenged and find the weaknesses in opponents.
For mine, Carlton look our biggest challenge, especially with Walsh back in. They have many of the same characteristics as us, plus two consistent power forwards. Not so strong defensively so I think we have their measure if we can stymie their clearance work.
Geelong looked human last night. They have a very capable list and Scott has seemingly developed the younger guys to transition smoothly up to the level but, for mine, covering the retirement of Selwood means a lot more than finding somebody to pick up his 30 odd touches. Guthrie, Duncan et al, last night at least, seemed unable to establish the composed workmanlike efficiencies so prevalent in their successes. No doubt they will be working on that and I'm not writing them off at all.
Not seeing it in Melbourne. Midfield, minus Brayshaw, is pretty inconsistent, and take out May and Lever at one end, and Pickett and Fritsch at the other, and there is not a lot left that inspires fear to me.
Giants? Well I could never understand how they were installed as favourite earlier in the year. Good core no doubt, but quite a few flashy younger guys that struggle for consistency still. Midfield needs refreshing. Green trying to do it all himself, Cogs not what he was, Ward an aging soldier and Kelly, the most overrated player in the league in my view.
Agree on Port. Talented, exciting, but raw. Been the story since Hinkley's been there hmmm
Bombers... Yesterday was 7000 days since they won a final
My feels
I really don't agree with Melbourne... Gawn for me is their key, he is an almighty presence in their team. Last time I looked they had pretty good depth, and I like the way Goodwin coaches.
And I certainly agree that you write off Geelong at your peril! If they stay fit, they'll be a presence, they're experienced and crafty, but I think we can take them...
However, while I know that Essendon haven't played finals in years, based on what I've seen so far, they'll break that drought this year... I can't see them grabbing a flag or making a prelim, but I would be surprised if they missed the eight. They'll cause some upsets throughout the season imo...
