- Jun 25, 2011
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Carlton vs West Coast Preview
Carlton
Please note that this preview has been written prior to the North Melbourne game. Carlton has been unimpressive thus far, though it can be seen what the coach is TRYING to implement. A quick moving, overlapping and flowing game that utilises the corridor for more effective F50 entries. Unfortunately we presently lack the disposal efficiency, footballing nous, and gut running ability to effectively play this way consistently for four quarters. In my opinion, it is better to practice playing this way with growing pains, for more success in future years.
West Coast
West Coast have exceeded my thus far expectations this year – albeit a small sample size. They were a team I expected to tumble, and I expect them to be a 7-12 ranked team by the end of the year. It is clear to see the difference Naitanui has on their games. The intangible effect of his presence on contests makes West Coast a 3 goal better side. Thus far they have relied on ground work in the forward line for much of their scoring. It will be interesting to see if they become too Kennedy focused. Their older team, has meant less pressure on their first / second year players, allowing them to grow into their role without the need to be match winners (though Ryan pre-injury certainly oozed match winner).
West Coast players
West Coast have a far more match hardened side than Carlton, and this will be something our midfield will need to overcome. The heavy lifting cannot solely be left to Cripps all the time. West Coast’s midfield is mediocre and will be where the match is won. Gaff should be carefully marked on the outside, as we have been burned by outside midfielders (especially well drilled ones) thus far this year. Sheed & Shuey have been good this year, though I feel Shuey is most dangerous when allowed to run in straight lines. Josh Kennedy is back, and could cut us to shreds ala Lynch Rd3 if given too much latitude, or their midfield gives too much supply. Liam Jones NEEDS help to contain him. Weitering or Plowman should be instructed to zone for intercepting his supply.
Carlton players
Charlie Curnow is no secret anymore. He reminds me so much of Kouta pre knee. West Coast will put time into stopping him, as he has been our avenue to goal a lot this year. Levi needs to assert his authority on not a massively strong backline, and hopefully Harry McKay does something in the magoos to give Bolton a reason to pick him. Kreuzer vs Naitanui will be an exciting and pivotal contest – hopefully Kreuz is 100% and can take advantage of Lycett while Naitanui’s game time is managed. Our midfield has the quality to match it with West Coast – they must ensure that they don’t ball watch and allow West Coast to dominate the outside.
Prediction
Carlton must stick fat and work towards a game plan that will hopefully ensue sustained success. West Coast are definitely weaker away from home, and the game should come down to who maintains better disposal efficiently. Too many turnovers will spell trouble for the Blues. There's also the fact that we are playing terrible football.
West Coast by 55 points.
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