Was quite looking forward in anticipation of this game...a month ago.
My views below; feel free to bicker with me, agree with me, or hate me.
- Eagles consistently have numbers around the footy, and are good at being first to the ball. As of such Geelong must have numbers around the ball - see Sydney vs WC game.
- Run and pace is important for Eagles, they have alot of it.
- Still have a weakness in being able to take a contested grab in the forward line. WC struggle to find avenues to goal when flooded, as they lack a tall who can take a contested mark.
- Cannot function when flooded - Matera struggles
- Geelong must have extra numbers down back. Eagles like to go through quick transitions, utilizing their pace and number of running players before bombing the ball forward to their talls, who can bring the ball to ground for Matera etc
- Eagles play a game plan of possession along the flanks
- WC key is in their midfielders (surprise surprise), stifle their run - Skilled Stadium should restrict them from playing down the flanks
- WC generally have the game in the bag by halftime - fadeout in last quarter - evident in games against Sydney and Kangaroos. Pressuring youngsters specifically (Selwood, Hansen etc) presents best oppurtunity for turnovers.
- WC usually counter floods by going wide, as their full forward can't lead straight up the guts (and they lack a guy who can take a contested mark)
- Alot of their goals come from midfielders such as Embley, Judd, Cousins, and Fletcher, whom are all good at finding space and using it effectively.
- Eagles can switch play if flooded. If wing areas are tightened, then corridor opens up again. Solution? Perhaps control corridor first and control midfield, who are the main ones hurting us. Controlling corridor over wings should give the defense more of a chance.
- Force them to play wide instead of down the corridor.