We played a very enjoyable brand of football, lots of run, lots of handball and we really ran the Crows off their feet. Good depth across every line, maybe a bit short down back but overall a well rounded team.
Every player was impressive, I guess thats what happens when you win by 16 goals! Loved Atley, loved Garner, loved AJ, Mckenzie was smart, Snelling dominant, Thomas exciting and the SANFL lads all performed well.
New kids:
Hayes - Reminded me a lot of a young Russell Johnston in his movement. Loved his attack at the ball. Took some nice grabs, had some super clever ruck work in the 2nd half and a nice goal as well. He'll play AFL by the end of the year, even though his body may not be ready.
Patmore - Tried to do a bit too much with it on occasion but loved his footy nous, loved his athleticism and the way he cleverly worked out of trouble. Just needs to clean up his disposal a bit but outside of that a very good debut.
Farrell - In and out of the game but thought he had good impact when he was getting a bit of it. Just needs to work himself into the game more.
Garner - Loved his game. Loved it. Yes he only got 4 touches, but he was playing a defensive role. Not just a defensive role, but he was playing on Himmelberg who's a good talent, good athlete, who's 12cm taller than Joel. He kept him to just 2 marks and no scoring shots playing in the forward 50 all day. I really liked Joel last year for his attack from the defensive 50 but today showed that he can shut down a player as well. Great game.
Thomas - Not a kid but kicked 6, our fans would have loved it, Crows fans would have hated it. Was very good, though greedy at times.
Others:
Atley - Is just your stereotypical old school Port footballer. In and under, tough as nails, healthy dose of arrogance, clever. He was BOG for me. Our AFL midfield may be stacked, but we have to get him in the side. He's ready to go.
Johnson - That was the best game i've seen AJ play. Huge impact with the ball, kicked goals, dished them off, ran real hard. Can't wait to see him back in the AFL side soon enough.
Frampton - Thought he showed enough to suggest he should play AFL in the next few weeks. Some real strong grabs, some good ruckwork and 2 goals. Give him a shot.
McKenzie - Strong and reliable down back. He'll play AFL this year and hold his own when he gets his chance. He's good depth.
Johnson just looks very dangerous and I think he would be frightening at afl level when our team gets a run on.
Our depth is pretty good that if needed I wouldn’t flinch if we needed to bring 5 guys in from that side lol. Of course we don’t need to but we have so many I’m happy to play at afl level tommorow