The WCE game was a needed wake-up call. However, it will happen again (as it did last year) if we dont make key personnel changes. This will require putting considerations of ability AND performance above name and reputation. What do you think of the following ideas?
Ricciuto...the heartbeat of the Crows. Yes, he's been a great leading FF all year but we have a perfectly good replacement in Scott Welsh now fit and firing again in the SANFL. Roo needs to be in the middle at crucial stages of the game. I know his fitness wont allow a full game in the midfield so its time to rotate him between midfield, forward line and bench, with a greater emphasis on midfield, even if that means more bench time recovery.
The Ruckmen...is it an overstatement to say that a fit Ben Hudson could mean the difference between a premiership or another lost season after being minor premiers? We need him back as number one ASAP. In the meantime, its up to Clarke and Biglands in the next 2 weeks to audition for the 2nd spot. Unfortunately, event the limited Clarke and Biglands still prob better options than Maric or Meesen.
Kenny McGregor...i cannot decide whether the glass is half full or half empty with Kenny. He is a great team man who by all reports is the forward line general and does take the odd contested mark BUT (and lets forget name and reputation) he is slow in terms of running speed and disposal, almost always falls to ground too easily, cannot stop his quicker opponents running out of our forward line, and his little stab kicks for goal are suspect. IMO if Perrie can regain form (which by all reports he hasnt yet) he would seriously challenge for CHF.
Reilly...is he currently too soft for finals-type footy? Harsh call but i reckon its time to play for Sturt and give Richard Douglas a go. Though he is a little smaller, Douglas is quick, fearless, skilful, and often gets amongst the goals.
Shirley...was seriously shown up today for lack of class and pace (despite his admirable determination in getting the most out of his limited ability). Van Berlo should be our first-choice 'defensive midfielder' from now on.
Bode...see comments re Shirley. Porplyzia is a better option.
Stevens...another harsh call as he has improved greatly and certainly wasnt our worst player against WC but in the end, who do you want standing at CHB in the finals...for me it has to be Nathan Bock. Depending on team balance, there may be a spot for Stevens on the bench as the utility tall who can go forward or back to cover a 3rd tall.
Doughty, Massie, Mattner...all deserve to keep their spots but must begin to stand up in big games.
I am sure some will view this post as merely an overly harsh emotional over-reaction to a loss. It's not. Some players obviously deserve a little faith and loyalty after many good performances but thats no excuse to get soft and stick our heads in the sand, only to get beaten again in finals and wish changes were made when problems arose.