Watching as a neutral, not paying attention to the commentary, it really seemed like the umpires were instructed to not pay anything bar the completely obvious frees.. which is ok in theory, but in a match like today where every possession is hard earnt, clear missed frees that would be paid really hurt you guys in the end. Commiserations.
Really impressed by you guys though, held up the pies after they got the jump and with some cleaner kicking you might have snatched it at the end. I wouldn’t blame Shiel for a late shanked kick as much when he’s kicking that ball on tired legs. A few other kicks weren’t his best today, but part of that I think comes with new teammates. Learning what spots forwards run to and their running patterns does take some time. He did a mountain of work today, kept you guys in it early and really helped turn the momentum back at the end.
Curious also, I’ve noticed Heppell was often the guy who got the ball at the end of a handball chain, and he would just kick it high and long down the line without any real general direction. Often they would get turned over. Is that a coaching direction or just his decision making with ball in hand to just pump it down the line rather than look for the lead up?
Also, really good to see Daniher up and about again. Footy is better when he’s playing well. He’s one of my favourites to watch.
Fully expect you guys to be there at the pointy end; wish you all the best for the rest of the year.