Marsh Cup 2020 Game 2 - Port vs Bulldogs

[Eastdog]

Only a practice match our last before Round 1. Will do predictions when the real games start. Hopefully another good showing and no injuries.

[bornadog]

Any details when this is on?

[Axe Man]

Any details when this is on?

4:10pm on Saturday arvo via the usual channels (Fox, Kayo, AFL Live).

[AshMac]

I hope we play our intended team for round 1 barring injuries

[Rocket Science]

Official squad just announced.

https://i.ibb.co/6BF0kcS/Screen-Shot-2020-03-05-at-6-39-01-PM.png (https://ibb.co/C2QKfpy)

Bruce to debut, English back on deck and Gardner gets another look-see.

[bulldogtragic]

Wood & Suckling in too. Strong side.

[comrade]

Looking forward to this.

[GVGjr]

Only a practice match our last before Round 1. Will do predictions when the real games start. Hopefully another good showing and no injuries.

There is no such thing as "only" a practice game Easty :)
We are playing for sheep stations against a very ambitious club

[Eastdog]

4:10pm on Saturday arvo via the usual channels (Fox, Kayo, AFL Live).

Thanks Axe Man. Yep a Saturday twilight match.

[Eastdog]

Official squad just announced.

https://i.ibb.co/6BF0kcS/Screen-Shot-2020-03-05-at-6-39-01-PM.png (https://ibb.co/C2QKfpy)

Bruce to debut, English back on deck and Gardner gets another look-see.

Keen to see how they all go.

[azabob]

Wood & Suckling in too. Strong side.

Still appear light on for key position players in the back half.

[GVGjr]

Still appear light on for key position players in the back half.

Young and even Gardner might be used in the back line

[azabob]

Young and even Gardner might be used in the back line

They could be. I think Young would be used forward.

Do you think Gardiner is being trialled in Trengroves role? Lock down defender / relief ruck?

For mine Trengrove should be best 22.

[GVGjr]

They could be. I think Young would be used forward.

Do you think Gardiner is being trialled in Trengroves role? Lock down defender / relief ruck?

For mine Trengrove should be best 22.

I'm a Trengove fan and think we need him as a key defender and support ruck option. He looked good in both roles in the intra-club game but he must be a long way back in the coaches thoughts at the moment.

[bulldogtragic]

Still appear light on for key position players in the back half.

Keath, Young, Cordy (Bevo says he’s a KPD) & Gardner will/can play back.

B: Suckling Young Wood
HB: JJ Keath Crozier

Spares: Cordy, Daniel, Williams, Gardner

I’m happy we are stocked. Only really JT not there.

[azabob]

Keath, Young, Cordy (Bevo says he’s a KPD) & Gardner will/can play back.

B: Suckling Young Wood
HB: JJ Keath Crozier

Spares: Cordy, Daniel, Williams, Gardner

I’m happy we are stocked. Only really JT not there.

Do you think any of those three - Young, Cordy, Keith are lock down defenders though? Cordy has the desire, but perhaps not the size. Trengrove should’ve played early rounds last year and in the final last year.

[bulldogtragic]

Do you think any of those three - Young, Cordy, Keith are lock down defenders though? Cordy has the desire, but perhaps not the size. Trengrove should’ve played early rounds last year and in the final last year.

Bevo thinks Cordy is. I think Gardner is being gifted some experience. JT is a million light years better than Gardner. I’m more than open to JT playing a fair bit this year. If he can iron out bad turnovers/brain fades, we will be even harder to dislodge once he gets into the side.

[azabob]

Bevo thinks Cordy is. I think Gardner is being gifted some experience. JT is a million light years better than Gardner. I’m more than open to JT playing a fair bit this year. If he can iron out bad turnovers/brain fades, we will be even harder to dislodge once he gets into the side.

Oh yeah, the Trengrove brain fades. I’d forgot about those.

[Rocket Science]

This may sound odd but I reckon Trenners has more on-field value when the side around him is a decent one ...ie: give him key responsibility in an ordinary backline and you're asking for trouble, but give him a 'role' in a quality, well-synched back-six and he'll give you solid service. He's fringe best-22 but brings elements we don't exactly have in abundance.

Our backline's obviously still a work in progress but it feels like the parts are now there once the chemistry coalesces that it'll be an effective one this year, and Trengove can play a valuable role in it against appropriate opposition.

It also won't hurt having him around so long as teams assume we're easily spooked.

[FrediKanoute]

Where is Billy Gowers?

[Eastdog]

Where is Billy Gowers?

Good question Fredi. Checked the injuries thread and he is not listed there.

[kruder]

Strong side. It will be interesting to see how they manage Bont/Macrae/JJ.

I'm really surprised we haven't seen Lachie Young this preseason, like many I just have a feeling this kid will be a serious AFL player. Can he become our Nick Haynes? Easton Wood replacement? I think he can.

[Bulldog4life]

Official squad just announced.

https://i.ibb.co/6BF0kcS/Screen-Shot-2020-03-05-at-6-39-01-PM.png (https://ibb.co/C2QKfpy)

Bruce to debut, English back on deck and Gardner gets another look-see.

2 players to drop out. Not sure if Gardner will play. Strong team though.

[Axe Man]

2 players to drop out. Not sure if Gardner will play. Strong team though.

I would expect Gardner and Sweet to drop out as they are no chance of playing round 1, so Bevo will probably do something completely different!

[The Pie Man]

Keath & Cordy as the two 'tall' defenders - will be watching Lewis Young with interest in this game (should he play) and where he fits both in this game and once Naughton is fit.

Trengove seems destined for a year in the VFL - having said that, Bevo has shown a tendency to abandon pre-season plans at the last minute.....but it still looks bleak for Jackson.

Hayes with a show of confidence. Had a strong end to the H & A season 2019, but went missing in the final.

Looks like they're impressed with Butler early doors. From a selfish POV, I'd love to see a Butts make the grade with us (tis my surname)

[Axe Man]

https://i.postimg.cc/0yY1BL5d/Team-Selection-social-Marsh2.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

Looks to be a fairly strong lineup from Port. Interesting to see how Georgiades goes for them.

[Happy Days]

https://i.postimg.cc/0yY1BL5d/Team-Selection-social-Marsh2.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

Looks to be a fairly strong lineup from Port. Interesting to see how Georgiades goes for them.

Also going to be tough to figure out how to stop Robbie Gray now that he’s 50ft tall

[Axe Man]

Also going to be tough to figure out how to stop Robbie Gray now that he’s 50ft tall

Crozier's leap will have him covered.

[Bullies]

Still appear light on for key position players in the back half. In saying that most clubs are light on for key position forwards as well.

[FrediKanoute]

Looks to be a fairly strong lineup from Port. Interesting to see how Georgiades goes for them.

Will kick 8 in his first game and then fade to obscurity

[Remi Moses]

They’d be hoping he’s a bit quicker than dad

[The Adelaide Connection]

https://i.postimg.cc/0yY1BL5d/Team-Selection-social-Marsh2.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

Looks to be a fairly strong lineup from Port. Interesting to see how Georgiades goes for them.

He has been really impressive so far. They are super excited about him. He is probably going to be the draft steal of the year.

[ledge]

We have always struggled against sides with big forwards, be interesting with Dixon and Lycett playing and how we go with Keath intercepting.

[GVGjr]

Georgiades would have been a good selection for us despite the having Bruce, Naughton, Schache on the list and having JUH on the radar. I'll be interested to see how he goes today

[GVGjr]

We have always struggled against sides with big forwards, be interesting with Dixon and Lycett playing and how we go with Keath intercepting.

Agreed, they can also through Marshall up there as well to test us. Trengove might have been a decent addition today but I suspect Lewis Young might spend some time in the back line

[ledge]

Agreed, they can also through Marshall up there as well to test us. Trengove might have been a decent addition today but I suspect Lewis Young might spend some time in the back line

Lewis would be better as Trengove is more a slow mobile Backman and Lewis has a bigger leap and covers the ground faster, I tend to think Trengove is good for a back / Ruck cover for injuries, don’t get me wrong I like him a lot , honest , gives his all but we need a faster, more mobile type player.

[Bulldog4life]

Agreed, they can also through Marshall up there as well to test us. Trengove might have been a decent addition today but I suspect Lewis Young might spend some time in the back line

Bevo seems to prefer Wood and Crozier to play tall rather than 3 talls in the backline.

[ledge]

Bevo seems to prefer Wood and Crozier to play tall rather than 3 talls in the backline.

Makes sense as both are good leaps ,so they are good on the ground and in the air.

[GVGjr]

Bevo seems to prefer Wood and Crozier to play tall rather than 3 talls in the backline.

Certainly does, Daniel, JJ, Crozier and Suckling to provide the run and carry
Williams is doing well to hold his spot. I'll be interested to see how we use him

[Bulldog4life]

Certainly does, Daniel, JJ, Crozier and Suckling to provide the run and carry
Williams is doing well to hold his spot. I'll be interested to see how we use him

Williams in on the cusp of selection so I am hoping he has a good match to cement his position in the team for round 1.Yes where he plays will be interesting.

[divvydan]

Final teams: Jordon Sweet and Ryan Gardner out of the Bulldogs squad, no replacements.

[GVGjr]

I would expect Gardner and Sweet to drop out as they are no chance of playing round 1, so Bevo will probably do something completely different!


Final teams: Jordon Sweet and Ryan Gardner out of the Bulldogs squad, no replacements.

Axe Man, you are getting close to chairman of selectors status :)

[divvydan]

We'll play 24 players and Port will play 26. I would expect us to play 22 with 2 backups on the bench who will either come in for an injury or if they decide to rest a player.

[GVGjr]

We'll play 24 players and Port will play 26. I would expect us to play 22 with 2 backups on the bench who will either come in for an injury or if they decide to rest a player.

I think we have done similar to this in the last couple of years. Makes a bit of sense in preparing for round 1

[bornadog]

Silly error by Smith and a goal gifted

[bornadog]

That is why we have Bruce - Marking power

[Rocket Science]

Nice hands Bruceeeey.

Won't be hard getting used to that.

[Eastdog]

Great mark Bruce and he gets the goal.

[bornadog]

God I hate Riccuto

[bulldogtragic]

#17 Looks like a TV chef making a Tom Boyd recipe. 'Here's a Tom Boyd we prepared earlier'.

[bornadog]

Tim English, Marking, Kicking, love him

[Eastdog]

Timmy!

[Eastdog]

Good movement of the ball to get it to Bruce and he gets it.

[bornadog]

What an acquisition Bruce is. He has presence, he is strong and can kick

[Eastdog]

Dunkley and English been good early.

[Eastdog]

What an acquisition Bruce is. He has presence, he is strong and can kick

There is a reason we got him :) that forward presence.

[comrade]

Lloyd makes some horrible decisions.

[Rocket Science]

Having a bloke like Bruce to aim at will give our mids so much more confidence to go quickly and directly.

[Eastdog]

Great kick JJ to Wally. Our forward half pressure has been great this quarter.

Wally gets it.

[AndrewP6]

JJ has had some good moments. So too English and Bazlenka.

[Mantis]

Our small-mid sized forwards have been poor so far... all very much attacking players who need to do more defensively if they aren’t getting the pill.

[comrade]

Defence looks shaky and unorganised under the quick high ball.

[Mantis]

Hunter doing his best to make me throw the remote thru the TV.

[Eastdog]

Hunter doing his best to make me throw the remote thru the TV.

He can be frustrating at times. Was good in a game 1.

[Mantis]

Defence looks shaky and unorganised under the quick high ball.

I’m not sold on this set-up.

[comrade]

Hayes was embarrassingly weak in that contest.

And we concede another contested mark. Yeah this ain’t working.

[Eastdog]

Great delievery to Bruce in this game. Agree defensively need to pick up.

[Rocket Science]

Jeez, might not be a spot for Naughts up forward when he's fit.

[bulldogtragic]

Some good signs with Bruce, English etc.

Some early 2019 signs of not capitalising on forward entries and giving it up to easily.

Going to be interesting to see if we can fix up some things.

[comrade]

If only we had another 195cm+ key position player that has proven himself in defence...

[chef]

Jeez, might not be a spot for Naughts up forward when he's fit.

He can replace Cordy down back. Excellent.

[Mantis]

Jeez, might not be a spot for Naughts up forward when he's fit.

Good.. we need him more in defence the we do up forward.

[Eastdog]

Good.. we need him more in defence the we do up forward.

Could happen now.

[azabob]

He can replace Cordy down back. Excellent.

We need a lock down key defender. Naughton and Keith are not that.

I have no idea why Trengrove is not playing.

[bulldogtragic]

Wood looks like a VFL top up so far. I guess the argument is its his first game.

[comrade]

All are welcome to join me on the Naughton to defence train, plenty of room.

[bulldogtragic]

Bailey Dale...

[chef]

Dale with the worst kick ever

[Eastdog]

Good mark Bailey Williams in defence.

[Mantis]

All are welcome to join me on the Naughton to defence train, plenty of room.

I’m struggling to see this defensive line-up getting the job done so I’m certainly open to it.

[Rocket Science]

All are welcome to join me on the Naughton to defence train, plenty of room.

Hey, it'd hardly be an off-season without someone suddenly being swung from one end of the ground to the other with no notice.

[Eastdog]

Williams been good the last few minutes.

[kruder]

Yeah gonna be interesting can Cordy and Wood play tall in the same team? When the pressure is off in a preseason game our defence always looks questionable. I like Williams marking power back there he has been the shining light.

English and Bruce make me happy :)

[Mantis]

What does Cordy offer the team?

Not tall enough for KP and not an offensive threat.

[Eastdog]

A bit too easy for them up forward.

[comrade]

Cordy oofft

[Eastdog]

Wood gets the mark. Need to do that more.

[comrade]

Hunter, Cordy & Lloyd are giving me bad vibes.

[bulldogtragic]

Vintage Hunter

[Eastdog]

Bont, Macrae, Dunkley doing their work as expected.

[GVGjr]

We need a lock down key defender. Naughton and Keith are not that.

I have no idea why Trengrove is not playing.

We like the intercept types. I think Trengove will struggle to get games early in the season unless there are some injuries

[Mantis]

Hunter, Cordy & Lloyd are giving me bad vibes.

Add in Dale & Wood.

[Rocket Science]

Might be best just to sit Hunter for the remainder of the game.

[LostDoggy]

Very stagnant coming out of d50, and too many cute kicks are annoying too

[GVGjr]

Our small-mid sized forwards have been poor so far... all very much attacking players who need to do more defensively if they aren’t getting the pill.

Port are more desperate and better organised. Out mid sized/smaller players are lacking at the moment

[Eastdog]

Bruce is a huge plus misses on that occasion.

[GVGjr]

Good mark Bailey Williams in defence.

He's been one of the more prominent players

[Eastdog]

A lot for Bevo to learn from this game.

[comrade]

Has Cordy won a contest?

[Eastdog]

He's been one of the more prominent players

Yep been decent today.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Bruce, Bailey Williams have impressed.
English now looks big enough to handle himself in the ruck - just needs to work more on his tapwork.

I'm not sure the players are going as hard as they did against North. They certainly don't look as switched on that's for sure.

[kruder]

Has Cordy won a contest?

He didn't win any last year always plays too far off his man for mine

[azabob]

We like the intercept types. I think Trengove will struggle to get games early in the season unless there are some injuries

Intercept types don't always have the desire to turn off their instincts and play a lock down role.

Keith isn't a great 1 on 1 player and when the ball comes in so easily it is shown up even more.

Clearly way to early for the sky to be falling in, but a few minor tweaks to our structure we will be competitive most weeks.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Said it for a long while - what does Cordy bring to the side? He is poor defensively, slow and offers nothing on rebound. I'm not actually sure what his role is - if it's to stop, he's awful at that.

Not a big JT fan but he makes more sense than Cordy.

[GVGjr]

There is a bit of work to do for the coaches. We have to lift our work rate and come up with a better approach with moving the ball forward. Some good signs but a few too many errors and poor decisions. Looking for an improved 2nd half

[josie]

Is Lewis Young in team? Sounds like he should be given a go instead of Cordy.

[ratsmac]

How bad was our defensive structure that quarter. Port waltzed through the corridor with little to no pressure.
Once they get it inside 50 they get a scoring shot off. We need to tighten up all over the ground.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

He's been one of the more prominent players

Has been impressive, excited to see him refocused.

[Mofra]

Port really blocking for each other well - Bont learned that the umpires are letting it go this week and blocked well for Bruce's last shot on goal.

Hunter just runs so hard - is everywhere. Not sure why he moved the ball so slowly that quarter.

Bailey Dale having an 'almost' game.

Schache is just so inconsistent from contest to contest. It's like he really wants to do the team things but has to think about it first, it's not instinctive.

Not sold on the "KPD to take the ruck in the backline" move at all. If we had Roughy or Trengove than yes, but Keath? Cordy? Hell no.

[GVGjr]

Intercept types don't always have the desire to turn off their instincts and play a lock down role.

Keith isn't a great 1 on 1 player and when the ball comes in so easily it is shown up even more.

Clearly way to early for the sky to be falling in, but a few minor tweaks to our structure we will be competitive most weeks.

I've been saying the same since the draft. Keath is a very good intercept defender and a good user of the ball so I guess the the challenge is now to turn Lewis Young into a lock down defender if Trengove won't be played.

[GVGjr]

Not sold on the "KPD to take the ruck in the backline" move at all. If we had Roughy or Trengove than yes, but Keath? Cordy? Hell no.

Yep, it's caused up some issues. Bruce isn't an effective ruck man either.

[Mofra]

I'm not sure the players are going as hard as they did against North. They certainly don't look as switched on that's for sure.
Macrae in particular looks in self-preservation mode.

[ratsmac]

Dixon always troubles us. Keath looks too light to play on someone the size of Dixon.... then again so do most humans.

[Bulldog4life]

I’m not sold on this set-up.

I tall short.

[GVGjr]

Has been impressive, excited to see him refocused.

Trained with the back line all summer so vastly better prepared than he was last year. I wonder if he can hold his spot there though?
Wood and Williams are similar sized and I suspect Williams won't be the preference.

[bornadog]

Is Lewis Young in team? Sounds like he should be given a go instead of Cordy.

Lewis and Roarke sitting the half out. Hopefully they come in the second half

[The Bulldogs Bite]

I have some concerns on Daniel, Lloyd, Cordy and Dale.

Think we may be only able to play two of Schache, Dale and Lloyd. They are all too similar; leading players who offer little defensively.

Daniel I'm unsure about his role. Not damaging as a half back - much prefer seeing JJ and Williams open the play up. Daniel slows the game down in this area which is counterproductive to how we want to play. For mine, Daniel has to play predominantly mid.

Cordy - see previous post. We can't hide him. With Keath in the side we need a lockdown type - has to be JT.

On the upside, Bruce and English look great. Both moving well and look strong. Williams looks reinvigorated and set for a much better year.

[comrade]

I have some concerns on Daniel, Lloyd, Cordy and Dale.

Think we may be only able to play two of Schache, Dale and Lloyd. They are all too similar; leading players who offer little defensively.

Daniel I'm unsure about his role. Not damaging as a half back - much prefer seeing JJ and Williams open the play up. Daniel slows the game down in this area which is counterproductive to how we want to play. For mine, Daniel has to play predominantly mid.

Cordy - see previous post. We can't hide him. With Keath in the side we need a lockdown type - has to be JT.

On the upside, Bruce and English look great. Both moving well and look strong. Williams looks reinvigorated and set for a much better year.

Naughton to replace Cordy.

Weightman or West to come into he forward 6 as soon as one shows some form to replace whoever isn’t performing out of Dale, Lloyd or Wallis.

Daniel, I’m not sure about.

[bornadog]

Some shocking unforced errors in the 2nd quarter - Dale, WTF and Wood not hitting a target when in both situations we had a spare man and an open forward line. In AFL, you have to hit targets or the turnover will kill you. Happened a lot in the first half of last year when we kept giving the ball back to the opposition.

I hope we tweaked things up a bit this quarter and use the wind well.

[Rocket Science]

Lewis and Roarke sitting the half out. Hopefully they come in the second half

Young on indeed and of course we roll him forward.

[comrade]

Why is Zaine kicking out? Should never, ever happen.

[bornadog]

Why is Zaine kicking out? Should never, ever happen.

I hate his stupid left foot

[comrade]

So we’ve worked out that Keath as the lone tall isn’t the answer when we aren’t dominating the midfield. What’s plan b?

[bulldogtragic]

So we’ve worked out that Keath as the lone tall isn’t the answer when we aren’t dominating the midfield. What’s plan b?

Dominate the midfield.

[Eastdog]

Bailey Dale has woken and scores!

[bornadog]

Nice mark from Dale, well done

[GVGjr]

So we’ve worked out that Keath as the lone tall isn’t the answer when we aren’t dominating the midfield. What’s plan b?

Certainly not playing to his strength

Wood falling to the ground to give Gray some extra time gave Marshall the drop on Keath and then he ran rings around him a minute or so later.

I think Trengove needs to come into the side but that's probably unlikely

[comrade]

Dominate the midfield.

A. Dominate midfield.
B. Win.

Easy game :)

[bornadog]

So we’ve worked out that Keath as the lone tall isn’t the answer when we aren’t dominating the midfield. What’s plan b?

Cordy out, Young or Trengove in

[comrade]

That kick from Macrae...

[bulldogtragic]

A. Dominate midfield.
B. Win.

Easy game :)

Yep. Don't even need a coaching panel either.

[GVGjr]

Awful kick to no one by Macrae, there was no Bulldogs player within 25 mtrs

[bulldogtragic]

That kick from Macrae...

Last two games are the two worst disposal games he's had. Hopefully blowing out some cobwebs.

[comrade]

Beautiful tap from Timmy. Good vibes.

[Rocket Science]

Cordy out, Young or Trengove in

Granted Zaine's had a rough one but I'm yet to see why Wood's any safer and remain unconvinced we have room for both.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

Port dealt a double blow with Lycett & Dixon injured.

[comrade]

Just kick it to Bruce and he marks it.

[ratsmac]

I love Bailey Smith but he doesn't get the ball nearly enough for the position he plays. I wouldn't mind seeing him spend some time at Footscray ala Patty Lipinski to work on parts of his game

[Eastdog]

Great match Bruce.

[bulldogtragic]

How good of a debut game last week from Keath and Bruce this week, with Weightman to come. What a trade/draft period.

[divvydan]

Port dealt a double blow with Lycett & Dixon injured.

Should be enough for us to win the game now but won't take away the issue of struggling against talls.

[bulldogtragic]

Should be enough for us to win the game now but won't take away the issue of struggling against talls.

Yep. I hope the win doesn't wallpaper some of the defensive cracks seen today.

[Rocket Science]

This whole accuracy in front of goal thing is a bit bizarre.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Roarke has done some nice things.
Bailey Smith important this quarter as well.
Not sure 14 points is enough of a lead with Port kicking with a decent breeze in the last.

[Eastdog]

Yep. I hope the win doesn't wallpaper some of the defensive cracks seen today.

Forward line looks good but be good to get a mix from the likes of Bont, Macrae/Dunkley, Lloyd, Wallis, midfield when on will be very dangerous but defence needs to be better particularly against opposition tall forwards.

[bulldogtragic]

This whole accuracy in front of goal thing is a bit bizarre.

Add in a KPF that's marks everything AND kicks them. And a dominant ruckman.

Kind of refreshing, huh?

[angelopetraglia]

Looking forward to launching into a a loud “Brrrruuuuucccccccccce” every time it goes near him this year :)

[Eastdog]

Roarke has done some nice things.
Bailey Smith important this quarter as well.
Not sure 14 points is enough of a lead with Port kicking with a decent breeze in the last.

Nice goal that quarter from Roarke. Kicked a great goal in the rain last year v Port.

[ratsmac]

Looks like Bevo might just turn Rourke Smith into a footballer after all. He did some nice things that quarter. Loved that body work on the wing to win the ball.

[Mofra]

Looking forward to launching into a a loud “Brrrruuuuucccccccccce” every time it goes near him this year :)
Nickname is Juice, works just as well.

Bailey Smith really lifted that quarter.
We seem set to make a call on one of either Hayes or Roarke as the wingman for round 1. Right now Roarke is ahead, but we have to target a wing FA at years' end.

Lewie Young is our best relief ruck, much better than Bruce or Schache in that role. Big question - can he keep his spot when Naughton's back? He might nudge Schache out.

[bornadog]

Disposals: Dunkley 24, Macrae 22, Hunter 21, Lipinski 17, Williams 17

Goals: Bruce 4, Lloyd 2, English 2, Dale, Smith, Wallis, Young

[kruder]

Love how they have played Williams back from the first game of the year(obviously because he has a great preseason) and they are leaving him there. He is a confidence player and continuity is what he needs and it's showing early. He is a lock for round 1, well done to him.

[bornadog]

I don't understand why we are playing Young forward

[chef]

Putting Cordy on Gray is a bit cruel.

[Rocco Jones]

I don't understand why we are playing Young forward

I think looking at Round 1 a bit. Naughton being possibly out means we might go with another tall forward, if we go that way, Lewis is in.

If they both don't play, I think spot 22 goes to Roarke Smith at the moment. I can't believe I am saying that....

[Eastdog]

Decent hit out. I think we have played well. 2nd quarter was the struggle.

[LostDoggy]

One thing that is already annoying me is Dwayne and calling Hunter hunner the T is not silent

[AndrewP6]

Sure it's only presason, but dropping games in that fashion really, really bothers me.

[bornadog]

The commentators called this from the studio, pretty weak really, but I guess a practise match Fox doesn't want to spend the money. Dwayne is so annoying

[GVGjr]

Granted Zaine's had a rough one but I'm yet to see why Wood's any safer and remain unconvinced we have room for both.

Vastly better 2nd half. He's in no danger

[Mofra]

I think looking at Round 1 a bit. Naughton being possibly out means we might go with another tall forward, if we go that way, Lewis is in.

If they both don't play, I think spot 22 goes to Roarke Smith at the moment. I can't believe I am saying that....
I have Roarke playing wing right now. Good luck to the kid, he's battled hard. Not sure it's a long term proposition but he's ahead of Hayes right now.

[divvydan]

Giving up the last 5 goals of the game and we also got smashed in the clearances in those last 15mins.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

A lot to work on - we are far from a finished product which we knew.

Important to keep improving and tinkering. Talk of top 4 and premierships is nice and we need to aim high but we have ground to make up on those ahead of us.

Some interesting selections ahead for round one. Bring it on!

[GVGjr]

Lewie Young is our best relief ruck, much better than Bruce or Schache in that role. Big question - can he keep his spot when Naughton's back? He might nudge Schache out.

It's certainly looking that way. I'm not sure we won't just be happy with anyone relieving in the ruck though

[westbulldog]

Perhaps we put the cue in the rack, hope that was the case. imo Dale, Wallis and McLean are no certainties for R1. He rest are I think. And Dwayne...…….duh.

[azabob]

The commentators called this from the studio, pretty weak really, but I guess a practise match Fox doesn't want to spend the money. Dwayne is so annoying

Foxtel have called pre season games from the studio for the last couple of years. They only send out the boundary rider.

[bornadog]

Foxtel have called pre season games from the studio for the last couple of years. They only send out the boundary rider.

Thanks Aza, didn't know that.

[Rocket Science]

Vastly better 2nd half. He's in no danger

Agreed, Wood was much handier in the second half. He'll need to bring that hunger for the contest regularly though and hope the match committee doesn't stitch him up with mismatched opponent too often.

[GVGjr]

Foxtel have called pre season games from the studio for the last couple of years. They only send out the boundary rider.

I think that is only at the regional games, pretty sure they were there against North but I might be wrong

[GVGjr]

Agreed, Wood was much handier in the second half. He'll need to bring that hunger for the contest regularly though and hope the match committee doesn't stitch him up with mismatched opponent too often.

Unfortunately they have to play him against taller players at times. If we play him as the 4th tall defender we are way to slow

[azabob]

Thanks Aza, didn't know that.

Yeah, they claim is saves them a truckload of $$ in production costs etc.

[azabob]

I think that is only at the regional games, pretty sure they were there against North but I might be wrong

I know they didn’t go to Princess Park last year.
Maybe at Marvel Stadium because it’s all set up that is the exception.

[Bullies]

Bit of a wake up call for a few to stop believing the hype. We need to play Daniel on the wing or as a pressure forward. It was no coincidence we played our best football last year when he was injured and not playing down back. He takes too long to move the ball with his piddly side way kicks/handballs and this confuses players up the ground who make leads and have to dummy back.

[kruder]

Bit of a wake up call for a few to stop believing the hype. We need to play Daniel on the wing or as a pressure forward. It was no coincidence we played our best football last year when he was injured and not playing down back. He takes too long to move the ball with his piddly side way kicks/handballs and this confuses players up the ground who make leads and have to dummy back.

Agree I wouldn't be playing Daniel anywhere near an already undersized backline. There were a lot of smalls who struggled today there are roles up for grabs from the wings to forwards it will be interesting to see where he slots in.

[Remi Moses]

Not sure what to make of these games
I mean freo ( undermanned) Knock over west coast
Gold Coast look like Richmond
Time will tell

[Eastdog]

https://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/573340/bruce-boots-four-in-dogs-narrow-loss

Bruce boots four in Dogs' narrow loss

Josh Bruce booted four goals in his first competitive hitout for the Bulldogs, in a narrow Marsh Series loss to Port Adelaide in Whyalla on Saturday afternoon.

A fast-finishing Power booted the last five goals of the game with the aid of a strong breeze to run out 10-point winners.

The performance of Bruce, the continued improvement of Tim English in the ruck and the defensive efforts of Bailey Williams that were just some of the positives the Dogs will take from the contest ahead of its Round 1 clash with Collingwood on March 20.

Lachie Hunter’s 29 disposals were an equal game high, with Josh Dunkley (28) and Marcus Bontempelli (27) also prolific.

Sam Lloyd chipped in with three goals, with English kicking two majors to go with his 37 hitouts.

The Bulldogs started with the breeze at their backs in the first term and controlled proceedings, with Bruce kicking two goals from set shots.

Port capitalised on their territorial advantage in the second, kicking five goals to two to lead by 17 points at the main break.

Lewis Young and Roarke Smith entered the game for the second half and it was Young’s goal which sparked a Bulldogs run of six of the next seven goals to have his side lead by 14 points at the final change.

The Dogs led by 20 points at 14 minute mark of last quarter, but couldn’t hold on into the wind in the final stages.

PORT ADELAIDE 3.3 8.8 9.11 14.11 (95)
WESTERN BULLDOGS 4.2 6.3 12.7 13.7 (85)

GOALS
Port Adelaide: Lienert 2, Dixon 2, Marshall 2, Jonas, Butters, Westhoff, Farrell, Rozee, Duursma, Hartlett, Georgiades
Western Bulldogs: Bruce 4, Lloyd 3, English 2, Wallis, Young, R.Smith, Dale

BEST
Port Adelaide: Byrne-Jones, Boak, Burton, Westhoff, Powell-Pepper
Western Bulldogs: Bontempelli, Dunkley, Bruce, Williams, English, Hunter

INJURIES
Port Adelaide: Lycett (Achilles), Dixon (adductor)
Western Bulldogs: Nil

Reports: Nil

Umpires: Stephens, Dore, Howorth

Official crowd: 4770 at Bennett Oval, Whyalla

[bornadog]

Bit of a wake up call for a few to stop believing the hype.

Wake call for who? Players or supporters?

[Eastdog]

Wake call for who? Players or supporters?

It was a good tough practice match today. I thought we got a lot out of that today and Bevo can look at areas to improve things. Disappointed obviously not to win but lets win in Round 1 now. Only 2 practice games but the signs are pretty good.

[Hotdog60]

It's hard to know what to take out of these games.
We looked rusty and our disposal in the first half needs improving and I wonder what sort of mind set the players and coaches go into these games with.
In warm conditions it looked like we ran out of steam in the last quarter and maybe Port wanted it more than us.
It is what it is and Port gave us a good run and made it a little bit more than a intra club practice game.
The Bont looks primed for another good year and I like the look of Bruce and it will be interesting on how he performs under the roof with better delivery.
I don't think Timmy will ever be a body on body ruck man but he can do some damage around the ground and he's not a bad kick for goal.
B.Smith got better as the game went on and it amazes me for a young player how can stand up in a tackle. R.Smith did alright when he came on but he faded late and I wonder if he has the tank to take a wing role on as he has been in the system for a while now but he is proficient on both side of the body.
Schache needs to make the most of his chances and missed what he should have got.
I agree with some of the other posters in we need a key back as the Dixon's of this world will trouble us.
Now Easton is not the Captain his place at the level may be looked at during the season unless he can recapture his form form a few years back.
The best thing was a clean bill of health and bring on round one when we are playing for something.

[Bulldog4life]

A good last hit out. A practice match. No injuries. A long ground. Wind seemed to pick up. Bring on the pies at marvel.

[GVGjr]

I want us to win every game and yesterday was no different but I'm far from dissatisfied with our performance even though it was an inconsistent effort.

There were some positives including the way Josh Bruce performed shaking off any doubts about his fitness or injury.
Tim English was another positive despite the injury to Lycett which meant he wasn't fully tested. Tim will be beaten from time to time in 2020 but he will also win us some games
Based on yesterdays performance Bailey Williams will make the selectors work hard to drop him from the round one team. He took the game on and used the ball well. He's trained with the defensive players over summer and is in good form.
Marcus Bontempelli was quiet by his standards but got through his 3rd game. Jack Macrae and Josh Dunkley are close to their best.
Lachie Hunter got a lot of the ball, he was frustrating at times but he did get better in the 2nd half.
Patrick Lipinski, Bailey Smith and Jason Johannisen all produced some good football. JJ was particularly damaging

It now comes down to the selectors getting it right for round one.
The challenges for the MC include:
Can they stick with Zaine Cordy given he is well below his best form?
Will they play Lewis Young as a forward or given that he has basically trained with the defensive players over summer does he need to play there?
Is Caleb Daniel the answer for us? Just seems off the boil
I'm not convinced on Roarke Smith and Will Hayes as our options on the wing? Hayes might get a week for his sling tackle. Smith is a likely inclusion though
Will it fall to Matthew Suckling to play on the opposite wing to Hunter as we have a crammed back line?
Will the selectors look at Jackson Trengove as a match-up for Mason Cox? It's probably a long shot
Can Toby McLean recapture some better form?

Games like this are about answering questions for the early part of the season so there were some positives identified and of course a few questions to be answered.

I'm convinced we will be in a good position for the early part of the season, the selectors just have to get it right

[bornadog]

I want us to win every game and yesterday was no different but I'm far from dissatisfied with our performance even though it was an inconsistent effort.

There were some positives including the way Josh Bruce performed shaking off any doubts about his fitness or injury.
Tim English was another positive despite the injury to Lycett which meant he wasn't fully tested. Tim will be beaten from time to time in 2020 but he will also win us some games
Based on yesterdays performance Bailey Williams will make the selectors work hard to drop him from the round one team. He took the game on and used the ball well. He's trained with the defensive players over summer and is in good form.
Marcus Bontempelli was quiet by his standards but got through his 3rd game. Jack Macrae and Josh Dunkley are close to their best.
Lachie Hunter got a lot of the ball, he was frustrating at times but he did get better in the 2nd half.
Patrick Lipinski, Bailey Smith and Jason Johannisen all produced some good football. JJ was particularly damaging

It now comes down to the selectors getting it right for round one.
The challenges for the MC include:
Can they stick with Zaine Cordy given he is well below his best form?
Will they play Lewis Young as a forward or given that he has basically trained with the defensive players over summer does he need to play there?
Is Caleb Daniel the answer for us? Just seems off the boil
I'm not convinced on Roarke Smith and Will Hayes as our options on the wing? Hayes might get a week for his sling tackle. Smith is a likely inclusion though
Will it fall to Matthew Suckling to play on the opposite wing to Hunter as we have a crammed back line?
Will the selectors look at Jackson Trengove as a match-up for Mason Cox? It's probably a long shot
Can Toby McLean recapture some better form?

Games like this are about answering questions for the early part of the season so there were some positives identified and of course a few questions to be answered.

I'm convinced we will be in a good position for the early part of the season, the selectors just have to get it right

Good Summary.

I also think the players are not quite at peak fitness as they are timed to be primed for round one. Also lots of experimenting in games like that, with not the same 22 playing the whole match, players having half games etc. However, you can get a glimpse of how we are going to play. The one disappointing thing was there was very little run and carry from the backline, and when we got to about 70 metres out, we bombed it in again looking for Bruce. I hope this is not how we are going to play, just because we have a big bloke.

When the real stuff starts, the intensity will be lifted and our application will be tested to see if we are going to bring effort into our game.

[comrade]

Bruce clunking everything in his first hitout in the red, white and blue was pretty enjoyable. After bringing in washed up key forwards since forever, it seems bizarre to have one in his prime.

Love the Juice!

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Did I read it right that the 'over the line brawl' was caused by Bailey Smith taking on someone who had a go at Hunter? Flying the flag is Bailey.

[Danjul]

Good Summary.

The one disappointing thing was there was very little run and carry from the backline, and when we got to about 70 metres out, we bombed it in again looking for Bruce. I hope this is not how we are going to play, just because we have a big bloke.


Could not agree more. It was evident early in the game that players up the field were not moving into position and those running off the backline had to kick to contests. Bruce made things look better than they really were.

Bruce, English and Williams were highlights when the going got tough. Need more concentration from the others when the going is easy.

[GVGjr]

Good Summary.

I also think the players are not quite at peak fitness as they are timed to be primed for round one. Also lots of experimenting in games like that, with not the same 22 playing the whole match, players having half games etc. However, you can get a glimpse of how we are going to play. The one disappointing thing was there was very little run and carry from the backline, and when we got to about 70 metres out, we bombed it in again looking for Bruce. I hope this is not how we are going to play, just because we have a big bloke.

When the real stuff starts, the intensity will be lifted and our application will be tested to see if we are going to bring effort into our game.

Crozier didn't perform as well as he normally does and the same for Daniel but JJ was impressive. One of the problems is that Wood for the first half was quite poor as was Cordy. This meant we didn't have a lot of drive from the back line

[Bulldog Revolution]

Crozier didn't perform as well as he normally does and the same for Daniel but JJ was impressive. One of the problems is that Wood for the first half was quite poor as was Cordy. This meant we didn't have a lot of drive from the back line

Good prior summary on the way I see it

Williams has had an excellent pre-season and is now in the 22

English showing good signs - growth in Bailey Smith, Lipinski etc

The wing has been interesting - I've tended to think Suckling - but we do need some others in that role and Hayes and Roarke have had their moments.

Getting the backline mix right is important - Crozier, Keath, JJ, and Williams had looked locks - Daniel still looks rusty but I'd back him in, and its crucial to get Cordy and Wood in form, or play Lewis Young in their spot - I thought Macrae was rusty also but I havent seen yesterdays game, nor the all star game, and he probably doesnt get too interested in pre-season games.

I'm excited about what we can build over the course of the season

[GVGjr]

Good prior summary on the way I see it

Williams has had an excellent pre-season and is now in the 22

English showing good signs - growth in Bailey Smith, Lipinski etc

The wing has been interesting - I've tended to think Suckling - but we do need some others in that role and Hayes and Roarke have had their moments.

Getting the backline mix right is important - Crozier, Keath, JJ, and Williams had looked locks - Daniel still looks rusty but I'd back him in, and its crucial to get Cordy and Wood in form, or play Lewis Young in their spot - I thought Macrae was rusty also but I havent seen yesterdays game, nor the all star game, and he probably doesnt get too interested in pre-season games.

I'm excited about what we can build over the course of the season

We have a bit of time to sharpen up and Bevo look relaxed about things indicating to mw there was plenty left in the tank.

I share your excitement for the 2020. We should be expecting a solid season

[Jeanette54]

For me, the game was a bit confusing, both form wise and in the desire stakes..

I loved the endeavour of the Baileys, Smith and Williams, although both have a tendency to take things one step to far. Only disposing of the ball when it is absolutely imperative to do so.

The Bont, cruised around, looking classy with everything he touches, but seemed to be a little restricted in the number of contests he either wanted to get to; or could get to.

McRae and JJ looked a little disinterested, and he had a few mates from what I could see.

We miss Libba's grunt in the engine room, and I still believe (like Tony) he is the catalyst/barometer of the team's performance.

Lippa, Lloydy, and Wallis didn't seem to have any consistent impact on the forward contest; and they appeared to lack the scouting ability to exploit the opportunities that Bruce/Schache/Naughton will bring their way.

Not sure about the backline, which didn't appear to work well defensively, and lacked the offensive drive we have become to expect. I thought Suckling was a liability for most of the day, although it was his first run.

Its not all doom and gloom. For example, Tim English. I don't think I have seen a safer pair of hands around the ground, since Garry Dempsey. And in the end we were just pipped at the post, in spite of our failings.

I must admit, like a lot of you, I am bewildered by the non selection when it comes to Trengove. I think he should be the lynchpin of our defense, but it looks like the selection committee isn't interested in giving him that opportunity.

Interesting days to come for 2020.

[Dancin' Douggy]

I'm another Trengove believer. Genuine big body in defence. Probably best one on one big defender we have (I'm not counting Naughton) And is PROPER ruck back up for English. To me it's a no brainer???

[Danjul]

I'm another Trengove believer. Genuine big body in defence. Probably best one on one big defender we have (I'm not counting Naughton) And is PROPER ruck back up for English. To me it's a no brainer???
I saw....
Cordy, Keath, Young, Schache and Bruce....
used in the ruck at times.

And in almost every instance the result was the momentum moving to the opposition. And it took a capable player from what they do best.

My guess is this is worth approximately 2 goals.

[Mofra]

I saw....
Cordy, Keath, Young, Schache and Bruce....
used in the ruck at times.

And in almost every instance the result was the momentum moving to the opposition. And it took a capable player from what they do best.

My guess is this is worth approximately 2 goals.
Cordy and Keath rucked in the backline and left English in that 'get out kick' position which was an interesting tactic to try but I don't think it worked. I really hope we shelve that for the proper season.

[Mantis]

The wing has been interesting - I've tended to think Suckling - but we do need some others in that role and Hayes and Roarke have had their moments.



I hope that we have Richards pencilled in for a role on the 'other' wing.

[Bulldog Revolution]

I hope that we have Richards pencilled in for a role on the 'other' wing.

Id also like to see him in that role, but does he have the tank for it over 4 quarters?

[AshMac]

I couldn’t watch the game live and honestly have only made it through 3 quarters of the replay until I stopped watching. Just lacklustre across the ground.

Port are going to be a good team this year IMO.

As for us, Bailey Williams has rocketed into the player I’m most excited about. I love him and his movement, composure and kicking were back to his 2018 form before he got injured.

Very interested to see how we line up over the year - there has to be 20 blokes competing the 12-14spots up for grabs.

[Mantis]

Id also like to see him in that role, but does he have the tank for it over 4 quarters?

I don’t think he does yet, but he’d be much more effective compared to Hayes & R.Smith... and I’m sure we’d rotate through that area too.

[Bulldog Revolution]

I don’t think he does yet, but he’d be much more effective compared to Hayes & R.Smith... and I’m sure we’d rotate through that area too.

It might be that Richards was going to play a half on a wing in the North game but got concussed and that nixed it for the Marsh cup

Hes run and verve, is what we need longer term in that role

[Mofra]

It might be that Richards was going to play a half on a wing in the North game but got concussed and that nixed it for the Marsh cup

Hes run and verve, is what we need longer term in that role
We did try him there last year (among half the list). He just can't find the ball yet. Needs time. Perhaps some VFL wing time?

[Mantis]

We did try him there last year (among half the list). He just can't find the ball yet. Needs time. Perhaps some VFL wing time?

How much ball will Hayes or R.Smith find?

[Rocket Science]

On reflection, I reckon there's a wing spot in waiting for Vandermeer, when he's adjudged ready.

[Mofra]

How much ball will Hayes or R.Smith find?
Hayes: more than Richards at this stage. They were the only two we really trialled during the Marsh series. Last year's numbers make for interesting reading, even taking into account Richards spent more time forward (for a 0.5 goal per game average vs Hayes' 0.4):

https://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/ft_player_compare?playerStatus1=A&tid1=8&playerStatus2=A&tid2=8&type=A&pid1=6466&pid2=6590&fid1=S&fid2=S

Roarke doesn't fare as well but it sounds like he'd be in the Round 1 side if it goes ahead:

https://www.woof.net.au/forum/showthread.php?19598-Marsh-Cup-2020-Game-2-Port-vs-Bulldogs&p=671629#post671629

[Go_Dogs]

I'm perhaps in the minority but Roarke on a wing has merit for me. Can do work in the air and is capable defensively. He complements Hunter nicely.