Toast A Toast To Versatility

[MileHigh]

Yes, we have one of the most versatile, athletic sides in the league.

I just wanted to give a shout out to the fact that over the past few seasons Ratts and co have stuck with a decision to build our side to be able to play in various roles. Who could have foretold that the eggheads at the AFL, Demetrio and his cronies would decide to change the rules to only have 3 interchanges (which im actually starting to enjoy now after much defensiveness over the pre-season) meaning that versatility would become even more prevalent this season.

However, this being said, I believe we are also noticing/reaping the benefits now of a side that is becoming more experienced in several roles. The benefits of a player knowing outside of his playing group what other groups require and their game plan (eg. a midfielder who also has to play back) must be so important in having all those departments gel together.

Kudos Ratts. I for one admire your ability to stick this out. Heres hoping the good run continues and we claim a top 4 spot.

 

[AlecDuncan]

It's a strategy I've been detecting for some time - long before Thornton kicked a goal. You left Waite & Hendo out of your list of talls who can go forward or back.

David Parkin long recognised the importance of versatile talls. Who can forget Adam Hunter's move forward in the 2006 grand final?

 

[MileHigh]

I was a reporter at Subiaco the year West Coast won it, and the amount of games they won by 1-2 goals in the end after being behind in the last quarter was phenomenal. They'd be behind by 2-3 goals and then, every time, would roll Adam hunter forward to kick a couple of goals. I also think they were fitter as well and with momentum they would run over sides.

(Who could forget when the Blues were up by 40 odd points only to lose by 7 points i think it was. I was in the media box and went down to the crowd to be with the supporters cas i couldnt contain my support, only to end up losing and having to write about it objectively. Bah.)

Its actually (another) interesting point - how many games West Coast won that year by a very small margin, right at the death. They were the masters of just getting over the line. I never rated Worsfold that year as he always waited until the final moment to push Hunter forward to kick the goals required to win the game. He seemed like a one trick pony. But hey they won a flag. The point there is how you dont have to flog teams to win the flag, and im now just realising how the blues right now grinding out these close games, thats what its about.

Back on point. We are stupidly versatile. If things go wrong, we would be better positioned than most to cover it and grind out a win. Even Yarran is playing back now. Walkers tagged for the past few years and played a defensive post. Waite and Hendo can go back or forward. Thorntons now kicking goals.

Point made I think. I love you Carlton!!