Always Right Match Committee - Round 12 Vs Fremantle 2021

[Scraggers]

Welcome to the Always Right Match Committee Thread. The Match Committee threads has been named after long time WOOF member Always Right who tragically passed away in March 2018.

If you were on the Western Bulldogs match committee what changes would you make after our Round 11 match against Melbourne for our Round 12, 2021 match against Fremantle at Optus Stadium on Sunday Arvo?

For those new to these threads, please give a brief explanation for your changes ... this would add a lot of value to the discussion.

[GVGjr]

Bump

[bulldogtragic]

With no VFL it’s hard. Garcia is out with concussion protocol. Not sure who comes in. McNeil looked slower tonight, maybe he needs to be managed.

[Testekill]

Out: Garcia (inj), Lipinski, Cordy

In: Scott, Gardner, West


I'd honestly drop Crozier as well; been killing us with ball in hand and he hasn't been good enough since his return from injury.

[Hotdog60]

Out: Garcia (inj), Lipinski, Cordy

In: Scott, Gardner, West


I'd honestly drop Crozier as well; been killing us with ball in hand and he hasn't been good enough since his return from injury.

I thought Cordy was one of the better backs.
Maybe Lippa out Wally in and who know without the VFL.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

I thought Cordy was one of the better backs.
Maybe Lippa out Wally in and who know without the VFL.

Man, I reckon Cordy did as well as could be expected tonight.

[bulldogtragic]

Man, I reckon Cordy did as well as could be expected tonight.

Same, he looked a million bucks on his non dominant compared to B. Smith. It was shades of me yelling at Suckling to just stick to your left foot, not everyone needs to kick both sides. Until he can show he can hit a target, or even just near it, take another option. The good thing is hopefully that’s the worst game he ever plays for our club tonight.

[soupman]

Initial thoughts.

Crozier is such a nearly player. He intercepts so well but doesn't defend well body on body and is less than good with ball in hand. I'd be open to trying three talls and bringing Gardner in for him.

Garcia for Scott is an easy reverse change. We missed that extra crumbing pressure forward today. If Scott isn't right then whoever can play that role comes in, so Hannan, West and Cavarra are all candidates.

I don't mind the look of Butler, but not sure who I'd play him ahead of. Lipinski was ok, and plays a different role anyway, so I wouldn't swap them. Butler probably stays as the sub i guess.

[Happy Days]

I don’t even know what to say here. Like who was that bad that we drop them?

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Given the players we have out and some tough games ahead, I think we need to invest in some more senior types.

Scott and Martin back when ready, but I'd also prefer West and Wallis over the likes of Garcia (inj), Butler (long way off it) and potentially Lipinski (might be needed for the short term as we don't have a heap of other options).

In - Martin, Scott, West, Wallis
Out - Sweet, Garcia, Butler, Lipinski

** I'd consider Young or Gardner dependent on Freos tall stocks.

[jeemak]

I think we were a bit cute with putting both Garcia and Butler into the lineup tonight.

[soupman]

I think we were a bit cute with putting both Garcia and Butler into the lineup tonight.

We didn't? I'm not sure the medical sub counts.

Plus they were never on the field at the same time

[Mantis]

I think we were a bit cute with putting both Garcia and Butler into the lineup tonight.

How was it cute?

Both deserved their opportunities after good form at the lower level and if we don’t select those 2 who do we select?

[Topdog]

I think we were a bit cute with putting both Garcia and Butler into the lineup tonight.

I think it's brilliant that we are 2nd on the ladder and still able to give crucial game time to our young players. Having used 38 or is it 39 players is something to be proud of

[G-Mo77]

I really don't think we have the options for making a lot of changes. Probably Scott back for Garcia. Is Martin ready to come back?

[Grantysghost]

Martin should be back this week.

[SquirrelGrip]

I really don't think we have the options for making a lot of changes. Probably Scott back for Garcia. Is Martin ready to come back?

Bevo said in his press conference that Martin trained well on Thursday and they d be taking him to Perth.

[1eyedog]

Shuffling deck chairs until VDM, Dunks and Treloar are ready.

Scott for Garcia
Martin for Sweet

[comrade]

Shuffling deck chairs until VDM, Dunks and Treloar are ready.

Scott for Garcia
Martin for Sweet

VDM could be out for the year given he is having knee surgery and his body is pretty fragile any way. Dunks and Treloar are 2 months away. If we're hanging out for these guys, the next few months are going to be hard to swallow.

[Go_Dogs]

In: Martin, Scott

Out: Sweet, Garcia

If McNeil needs a rest, then I’d bring in Wally too.

[1eyedog]

VDM could be out for the year given he is having knee surgery and his body is pretty fragile any way. Dunks and Treloar are 2 months away. If we're hanging out for these guys, the next few months are going to be hard to swallow.

Agreed we need to make the best of what's available. I'm concerned being two elite mids down when we rely so much on our mids dominating.

[bornadog]

In: Martin, Scott

Out: Sweet, Garcia

If McNeil needs a rest, then I’d bring in Wally too.

McNeil gave us nothing last night, just 1 tackle, I would drop him for West or Wally.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

McNeil gave us nothing last night, just 1 tackle, I would drop him for West or Wally.

Our f50 pressure was near non-existent last night. Do we really rely on atmosphere that much to get up for a game?

[DOG GOD]

Our f50 pressure was near non-existent last night. Do we really rely on atmosphere that much to get up for a game?
Seemed that way didn’t it. If that first quarter wasn’t going thru the motions, I don’t know what is. Let’s not forget though..Dees look well drilled, have the best backline and ruckman in the league. They SHOULDVE been 11-0 after last night, and based on their easy draw (unless COVID changes that), they should finish well clear in the #1 spot.

[azabob]

Our f50 pressure was near non-existent last night. Do we really rely on atmosphere that much to get up for a game?

Not sure on that. Against the saints early on their was no atmosphere at the ground.

[Bullies]

Need a few hardened bodies to come in - Wallis and West come to mind.

If Wallis didn't play this week with all the injuries then not sure he is in the mind of the Match Committee.

He would have been handy to come on for Garcia with the pressure he applies.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Not sure on that. Against the saints early on their was no atmosphere at the ground.

I take your point, but mentally there is a big difference between a quiet crowd and an empty stadium. Even the low roar of a quiet crowd is loud compared to a huge empty stadium.

We didn’t exactly set the world on fire in the 1st quarter against the saints either ;)

[Hotdog60]

If VDM is out for the year does that mean we can take a mid season draft pick?

[Nuggety Back Pocket]

Need a few hardened bodies to come in - Wallis and West come to mind.

If Wallis didn't play this week with all the injuries then not sure he is in the mind of the Match Committee.

He would have been handy to come on for Garcia with the pressure he applies.
The decision by the MC not to find replacements in the midfield for Dunkley and Treloar against Melbourne left us terribly exposed with Liberatore being tagged, to play his quietest game for the year. Let’s hope common sense prevails against Freo with both Wally and West recalled to boost the midfield.

[bornadog]

Club Update:


UPDATE: We will now be basing ourselves in Sydney this week and flying to Perth on Saturday.We will depart this afternoon.

[Testekill]

If VDM is out for the year does that mean we can take a mid season draft pick?

Unfortunately I think we might have left it for too late.

[Go_Dogs]

Going to be a tough week and unsettling for the group. Can galvanise or mess it up for us.

Important game this one, need the win.

Sounds like we will have 26-28 players on call - will be just about every fit player we have.

[comrade]

Going to be a tough week and unsettling for the group. Can galvanise or mess it up for us.

Important game this one, need the win.

Sounds like we will have 26-28 players on call - will be just about every fit player we have.

Covid doing it's best to *!*!*!*! our season.

[Mantis]

The decision by the MC not to find replacements in the midfield for Dunkley and Treloar against Melbourne left us terribly exposed with Liberatore being tagged, to play his quietest game for the year. Let’s hope common sense prevails against Freo with both Wally and West recalled to boost the midfield.

Lipinski was the chosen replacement and was a big part of the midfield rotation in the first half, but he was horrible in this role and was moved to an outside role after half time.

Whilst we will never know I’m thinking Garcia would’ve had some midfield minutes too as the game went on as he had been playing that role in the VFL team.. and outperforming the players you mentioned.

Wallis should never be back in our midfield rotation unless we seriously have no one left... his skill set has meant he has become a forward only player and going back to him as a mid is a big step backwards.

[Rocco Jones]

Our mid A team is awesome but losing Dunks and Treloar means we are in trouble if a side can do what Dees did to Libba. Lipsinki is really limited, terrible w pace and defensive nous but maybe we just have to play him for the time being as he is clean and has quality disposal. I don't know how we hide his deficiencies in the right way.

In: Scott, Martin
Out: Garcia, Sweet

Do we flip the added time in engine room to put in a tagger/run with? I really don't want us to give big mins to Lip here, especially early in game. Or when it's at a crucial stage at all...

[Nuggety Back Pocket]

Lipinski was the chosen replacement and was a big part of the midfield rotation in the first half, but he was horrible in this role and was moved to an outside role after half time.

Whilst we will never know I’m thinking Garcia would’ve had some midfield minutes too as the game went on as he had been playing that role in the VFL team.. and outperforming the players you mentioned.

Wallis should never be back in our midfield rotation unless we seriously have no one left... his skill set has meant he has become a forward only player and going back to him as a mid is a big step backwards.

Compared to Melbourne we fielded a very inexperienced line up without the likes of Wood Martin Dunkley and Treloar. Wallis at least as the chosen Vice Captain would provide invaluable on field leadership support to Bont.

[Mantis]

Compared to Melbourne we fielded a very inexperienced line up without the likes of Wood Martin Dunkley and Treloar. Wallis at least as the chosen Vice Captain would provide invaluable on field leadership support to Bont.

I'm not sure that's the case given they had more players in their team who had played under 50 games compared to us (6 to 8) and the average games played was very close (82 v 88).

I know there's lots of our fans that want Wallis back in the team, but his form has been just ok and the limitations in his game mean he can only play as a forward and realistically with his skillset he plays as a 'tall' and he isn't getting a game before our 3 talls.

[Bulldog Joe]

I'm not sure that's the case given they had more players in their team who had played under 50 games compared to us (6 to 8) and the average games played was very close (82 v 88).

I know there's lots of our fans that want Wallis back in the team, but his form has been just ok and the limitations in his game mean he can only play as a forward and realistically with his skillset he plays as a 'tall' and he isn't getting a game before our 3 talls.

I respectfully disagree and would consider Wallis for a midfield role. His form at Footscray has been very good when played there.

I concede that he is slow, but he is also good one on one and finds the footy. He also distributes well and would have added another dimension when Libba was tagged.

[westbulldog]

In Martin West Wallis Scott
Out Sweet Garcia Butler McNeil

Sweet was given a hiding in all aspects by Gawn and needs to reflect on that.
Lipinski out of the mids or Fyfe and Mundy will destroy him.
JJ to get a not so friendly reminder about his contribution v Melbourne.

[DOG GOD]

In Martin West Wallis Scott
Out Sweet Garcia Butler McNeil

Sweet was given a hiding in all aspects by Gawn and needs to reflect on that.
Lipinski out of the mids or Fyfe and Mundy will destroy him.
JJ to get a not so friendly reminder about his contribution v Melbourne.

Fyfe and Mundy will most likely destroy us total. They love going fwd and our mids are known for their less defensive qualities. Oh dont worry, Fyfe won’t be missing any set shots against us. We will probably play him into goal kicking form.

[Mantis]

Fyfe and Mundy will most likely destroy us total. They love going fwd and our mids are known for their less defensive qualities. Oh dont worry, Fyfe won’t be missing any set shots against us. We will probably play him into goal kicking form.

Aren't you just a bundle of positivity. ;)

Sure we struggled on Friday night, but between Bont, Libba & Macrae we have 3 of the 10 best mids in the competition based on out-put this year... of course it's going to be a challenge against Fremantle, but have a little faith!

[DOG GOD]

Aren't you just a bundle of positivity. ;)

Sure we struggled on Friday night, but between Bont, Libba & Macrae we have 3 of the 10 best mids in the competition based on out-put this year... of course it's going to be a challenge against Fremantle, but have a little faith!

Lol I do have faith, but I know what Fyfe is capable of, and I know what Fyfe has done to us in the past. Mundy is playing as well as ever, and throw the turmoil of COVID, and it’s going to be a very tough obstacle. I’m hopeful, but it’s only hope at this stage.

[Happy Days]

Out: McNeil, Sweet

In: West, Martin

Reckon that game might have be the death of Sweet hive. He's not ready and I'm not so sure he ever will be.

Regardless, we should beat Freo. We're better than them.

[azabob]

Out: McNeil, Sweet

In: West, Martin

Reckon that game might have be the death of Sweet hive. He's not ready and I'm not so sure he ever will be.


Regardless, we should beat Freo. We're better than them.

Butler to come/stay in for Garcia?

[Happy Days]

Butler to come/stay in for Garcia?

Totally forgot about him, absolutely not.

Hopefully Hannan is ready to go, if not him then Scott.

[1eyedog]

Can Bailey Williams go into the middle and do a Darcy Parish? Didn't he rack up 46 against men during his draft year? Just spitballing.

[bulldogtragic]

Can Bailey Williams go into the middle and do a Darcy Parish? Didn't he rack up 46 against men during his draft year? Just spitballing.

Didn’t he do a full preseason with the mids 3 years ago?

[Happy Days]

Can Bailey Williams go into the middle and do a Darcy Parish? Didn't he rack up 46 against men during his draft year? Just spitballing.

I don't think I'm comfortable with him not playing down back.

[bornadog]

In Martin West Wallis Scott
Out Sweet Garcia Butler McNeil .

You have 4 ins but only 3 outs. Butler doesn't count as he was a medical sub.

[Grantysghost]

Possible Rd 12 fixture has us playing late Sunday.

https://i.postimg.cc/7LRCvYWK/20210530-153251.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[comrade]

Surely that Saints game is at Giants stadium? Playing a home game against the Swans is a tad harsh.

[DOG GOD]

Surely that Saints game is at Giants stadium? Playing a home game against the Swans is a tad harsh.
Agree, and this could be a problem going fwd, like when we play them

[Grantysghost]

Bevo's transitioned from Salty Dog to Stairway to Heaven?
https://i.postimg.cc/vZW3XT0w/20210530-172510.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[EasternWest]

Bevo's transitioned from Salty Dog to Stairway to Heaven?
https://i.postimg.cc/vZW3XT0w/20210530-172510.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

How else will he get his tommy gun interstate?

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Surely that Saints game is at Giants stadium? Playing a home game against the Swans is a tad harsh.

I think the idea is they swap home games as they play Sydney again later in the year.

[1eyedog]

Didn’t he do a full preseason with the mids 3 years ago?

I think you're right.

[comrade]

I think the idea is they swap home games as they play Sydney again later in the year.

Yeah, good luck with that!

[Scraggers]

So apparently 27 players have travelled? Wallis and JUH are not among the travellers.

[MrMahatma]

Out: McNeil, Sweet

In: West, Martin

Reckon that game might have be the death of Sweet hive. He's not ready and I'm not so sure he ever will be.

Regardless, we should beat Freo. We're better than them.

You think Sweet won’t make it... ever? Why?

[Bumper Bulldogs]

So apparently 27 players have travelled? Wallis and JUH are not among the travellers.

That is really just so disappointing, I don’t believe that could happen. What if they are locked Ron for a month why wouldn’t you take extras snd posy the long game.

[Happy Days]

You think Sweet won’t make it... ever? Why?

He’s got nice skills but is way way way too contest to contest right now, which means he can’t get involved in possession chains and use his nice skills. When it’s your whole deal 3 possessions is really not good enough. And his actual ruckwork is a mile off.

[SquirrelGrip]

So apparently 27 players have travelled? Wallis and JUH are not among the travellers.

Do we know who the 27 are? Surely with all our WOOF contacts we could find that out?

[westbulldog]

You have 4 ins but only 3 outs. Butler doesn't count as he was a medical sub.

Freo go well on their homedeck. we might need 1 extra :) but Lipinski.

Thanks for the reminder.

[Mantis]

Do we know who the 27 are? Surely with all our WOOF contacts we could find that out?

Martin & Gardner were at the airport... would assume Scott would go too.

[comrade]

Martin & Gardner were at the airport... would assume Scott would go too.

I reckon they'd take Garcia too, good chance to catch up with family while over there.

[Happy Days]

Per Twitter Butler is definitely there for some reason.

[bornadog]

Per Twitter Butler is definitely there for some reason.

I can't make out too many in this shot. Martin, Scott? Libba of course

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E2rb-XUVEAMmHmR?format=jpg&name=large

[comrade]

I can't make out too many in this shot

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E2rb-XUVEAMmHmR?format=jpg&name=large

Hannan, Bazlenka, Martin, Scott, Hunter, McNeil are definitely in that picture. Maybe Cordy, JJ and Butler.

[Threedogs]

Herald Sun reporting this afternoon that the entire playing group from the Melb game has gone to Sydney except Garcia (injured). In addition, Dogs have taken Martin, West, Gardner, Scott and Hannan.

[Mofra]

Herald Sun reporting this afternoon that the entire playing group from the Melb game has gone to Sydney except Garcia (injured). In addition, Dogs have taken Martin, West, Gardner, Scott and Hannan.
Garcia out, in a role for role swap does that mean it's out of Scott and Hannan?
I imagine Gardner gets to be the injury sub in lieu of Butler.

[bornadog]

In - Martin , Hannan , Scott
Out - McNeil , Garcia and Sweet
McNeil to be the sub

[Rocco Jones]

In - Martin , Hannan , Scott
Out - McNeil , Garcia and Sweet
McNeil to be the sub

+ 1.

[Doc26]

So apparently 27 players have travelled? Wallis and JUH are not among the travellers.

27 players in the travelling posse, and assuming the ~8 listed injured players not amongst them, leaves only a handful of fit players left at home. Seems a very large fall from grace for Mitch from circa 2020, to then being named Vice Captain in the pre-season, that he isn’t a part of Bevo’s travelling band.

I am unconvinced that Mitch is not at least in our best 27 of 40 odd. This smells off when he should be as fresh as a daisy, and contributing in hostile territory with his leadership to the playing group which had only recently voted him in.

[dalek]

Garcia out, in a role for role swap does that mean it's out of Scott and Hannan?
I imagine Gardner gets to be the injury sub in lieu of Butler.

Garcia is out because of concussion protocol.

[soupman]

27 players in the travelling posse, and assuming the ~8 listed injured players not amongst them, leaves only a handful of fit players left at home. Seems a very large fall from grace for Mitch from circa 2020, to then being named Vice Captain in the pre-season, that he isn’t a part of Bevo’s travelling band.

I am unconvinced that Mitch is not at least in our best 27 of 40 odd. This smells off when he should be as fresh as a daisy, and contributing in hostile territory with his leadership to the playing group which had only recently voted him in.

Pretty sure he was reluctant to leave VIC considering his young family. And he plays a role which kind of doesn't exist in our current setup. English succeeding as a tall forward has made it very hard for Wallis, and I don't think the club see's him as an inside mid unless we have broken all the other glass first.

[Doc26]

Pretty sure he was reluctant to leave VIC considering his young family. And he plays a role which kind of doesn't exist in our current setup. English succeeding as a tall forward has made it very hard for Wallis, and I don't think the club see's him as an inside mid unless we have broken all the other glass first.

There are many players with young families making sacrifices through COVID. Mitch is not alone in this regard, and he is our senior Vice Captain. Any reluctance he might have would be based on how he sees himself currently in the eyes of this MC.

Personally, I see Mitch as a better selection option than what McNeill is offering as a rotating midfielder where he generally receives little more than a handful of touches with some decent pressure acts.

In addition to what Mitch could offer our midfield rotation, whether as support to Libba on the inside, or as a negating inside mid, he can also effectively pinch hit effectively up forward.

I could argue a case where he would be better served than others currently being selected in front of him.

One thing Mitch has shown is that he can reinvent himself when presented with an opportunity, from inside mid to a lead up 3rd tall forward, and coming from adversity in his recovery from a seriously bad injury.

IMO he is a case where his benefits to the team are being ignored because of a singular view that he is not quick enough for the style that we wish to play.

I see it as shortsightedness, and possibly stubbornness, particularly as the younger players currently in favour with the coach fall off as the season progresses.

[soupman]

Personally, I see Mitch as a better selection option than what McNeill is offering as a rotating midfielder, or as a negating midfielder, who can also pinch hit up forward.

McNeill hasn't played any mid time afaik. He has been playing as a crumbing forward and is in the side primarily for his pressure acts. Wallis doesn't have the attributes for this role I suspect, we are looking for a natural crumber who has pace and can cover a lot of ground.


There are many players with young families making sacrifices through COVID. Mitch is not alone in this regard, and he is our senior Vice Captain.

Yes agree, and from what we can tell (basically just Mark Stevens tweet) Mitch has made this choice, not us for him.

[Doc26]

McNeill hasn't played any mid time afaik. He has been playing as a crumbing forward and is in the side primarily for his pressure acts. Wallis doesn't have the attributes for this role I suspect, we are looking for a natural crumber who has pace and can cover a lot of ground.


Not in the primary starting midfield per se, but regularly McNeill is setup around the stoppages forward of centre applying defensive pressure acts on the opposition smalls. Just part of an extended midfield generally forward of centre.

[Mantis]

There are many players with young families making sacrifices through COVID. Mitch is not alone in this regard, and he is our senior Vice Captain. Any reluctance he might have would be based on how he sees himself currently in the eyes of this MC.

Personally, I see Mitch as a better selection option than what McNeill is offering as a rotating midfielder where he generally receives little more than a handful of touches with some decent pressure acts.

In addition to what Mitch could offer our midfield rotation, whether as support to Libba on the inside, or as a negating inside mid, he can also effectively pinch hit effectively up forward.

I could argue a case where he would be better served than others currently being selected in front of him.

One thing Mitch has shown is that he can reinvent himself when presented with an opportunity, from inside mid to a lead up 3rd tall forward, and coming from adversity in his recovery from a seriously bad injury.

IMO he is a case where his benefits to the team are being ignored because of a singular view that he is not quick enough for the style that we wish to play.

I see it as shortsightedness, and possibly stubbornness, particularly as the younger players currently in favour with the coach fall off as the season progresses.

You really think that? I would think that Wally is on the outside because of other factors other than just pace.

With regard to how he re-invented himself as a 3rd tall with that role now being filled by an actual tall shouldn't Wallis be competing for a spot with Bruce & Naughton; because by no means is Mitch a small forward in the truest form?

[Mantis]

I'm not sure on the likelihood as he's listed as a test, but with Taberner a possible return would you think we bring Gardner back as I'm not really comfortable having just Keath & Cordy in to tackle Lobb (206cm) & Taberner (198cm)?

[1eyedog]

Pretty sure he was reluctant to leave VIC considering his young family. And he plays a role which kind of doesn't exist in our current setup. English succeeding as a tall forward has made it very hard for Wallis, and I don't think the club see's him as an inside mid unless we have broken all the other glass first.

My feeling is that Libba has Wally's spot and unless Libba is injured Wally won't get a look in. We seem reluctant to play two slow inside players for fear of being too one-paced, and probably rightfully so.

[1eyedog]

Not in the primary starting midfield per se, but regularly McNeill is setup around the stoppages forward of centre applying defensive pressure acts on the opposition smalls. Just part of an extended midfield generally forward of centre.

McNeil helps us spread from stoppages and has pace so he can 1. apply pressure where needed and 2. has the ability to harass the opposition across multiple contests. Mitch's shortcomings come to the fore in this space because he just doesn't have the legs to follow up while defending or the legs to create space moving forward. He's an inside distributor and a very good one, problem is we have a better one in the side at the moment.

[bornadog]

I'm not sure on the likelihood as he's listed as a test, but with Taberner a possible return would you think we bring Gardner back as I'm not really comfortable having just Keath & Cordy in to tackle Lobb (206cm) & Taberner (198cm)?

Treacy is 193cm, so maybe Cordy to Treacy, and Keatrh and Gardner on Lobb and Taberner

[Doc26]

You really think that? I would think that Wally is on the outside because of other factors other than just pace.

With regard to how he re-invented himself as a 3rd tall with that role now being filled by an actual tall shouldn't Wallis be competing for a spot with Bruce & Naughton; because by no means is Mitch a small forward in the truest form?

I wouldn’t say it if I didn’t believe it.

Anyway, from Mitch’s lack of pace means that he has struggled with the defensive requirements of the modern game, meaning the pressure to retain the ball in the forward fifty is compromised, and with this the opportunity for the opposition to set up scoring opportunities from defence. These would be the MC’s biggest concerns.

With that said, I still believe the strengths that he brings outweighs what McNeill is offering currently, and most certainly should be part of the travelling group as VC of the team.

[comrade]

I wouldn’t say it if I didn’t believe it.

Anyway, from Mitch’s lack of pace means that he has struggled with the defensive requirements of the modern game, meaning the pressure to retain the ball in the forward fifty is compromised, and with this the opportunity for the opposition to set up scoring opportunities from defence. These would be the MC’s biggest concerns.

With that said, I still believe the strengths that he brings outweighs what McNeill is offering currently, and most certainly should be part of the travelling group as VC of the team.

Can't take him interstate if he doesn't want to go which seems to be the likely scenario.

[Rocco Jones]

What do we do with centre bounce attendances? Does Baz take up all of Lip's time as back up to Bont, Macrae and Libba? Baz isn't going great bout his base line clearly safer than Lip. Anyone else who could go in?

[Happy Days]

Baz didn't go to a single centre bounce last weekend. I would be changing that immediately and think that him on the inside and Lipinski on the outside gives them both the best chance of succeeding.

[Axe Man]

What do we do with centre bounce attendances? Does Baz take up all of Lip's time as back up to Bont, Macrae and Libba? Baz isn't going great bout his base line clearly safer than Lip. Anyone else who could go in?

After the big 3 who all attended 19 or 20 out of 25, Smith attended 9, Lipa 7 and Hunter 1. I would assume it will look similar on Sunday, unless Lipa is dropped which would require a rejig.

[Axe Man]

Baz didn't go to a single centre bounce last weekend. I would be changing that immediately and think that him on the inside and Lipinski on the outside gives them both the best chance of succeeding.

He went to 9 actually, although it was on Friday so technically you are correct. ;)

Link (https://www.afl.com.au/news/624305/secrets-to-success-every-club-s-cbas-and-kick-ins-for-r11)

[comrade]

What do we do with centre bounce attendances? Does Baz take up all of Lip's time as back up to Bont, Macrae and Libba? Baz isn't going great bout his base line clearly safer than Lip. Anyone else who could go in?

Baz looks good bursting out the front of the stoppage (see our first goal) but defensively he's the worst of our mids, which is a liability when you consider Bont, Libba and Macrae aren't exactly focused on what their direct opponent is doing either.

[bornadog]

when you consider Bont, Libba and Macrae aren't exactly focused on what their direct opponent is doing either.

I would dispute that with the tackle numbers. Macrae had 9 tackles last week, Bont 8 and Libba 6

[The Underdog]

Baz looks good bursting out the front of the stoppage (see our first goal) but defensively he's the worst of our mids, which is a liability when you consider Bont, Libba and Macrae aren't exactly focused on what their direct opponent is doing either.

He’s a lot quicker running forward with the footy than he is running backwards to defend.

[comrade]

I would dispute that with the tackle numbers. Macrae had 9 tackles last week, Bont 8 and Libba 6

They tightened up after quarter time but when the game was on the line early, not enough respect was shown. As I said, Bazlenka is much worse than these 3 at the defensive side. Melbourne's inside mid group got 25 of 30 (including Gawn) coaches votes - their guys whipped ours.

[Grantysghost]

They tightened up after quarter time but when the game was on the line early, not enough respect was shown. As I said, Bazlenka is much worse than these 3 at the defensive side. Melbourne's inside mid group got 25 of 30 (including Gawn) coaches votes - their guys whipped ours.

It was won in the midfield for sure.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

It was won in the midfield for sure.

Yep. When they got it they burst through very easily.

[Happy Days]

He went to 9 actually, although it was on Friday so technically you are correct. ;)

Link (https://www.afl.com.au/news/624305/secrets-to-success-every-club-s-cbas-and-kick-ins-for-r11)

Damn read it wrong. Thought it was peculiar.

[comrade]

It was won in the midfield for sure.

Certainly early on when the game was on the line, they were given way too much latitude. I recall one passage where Petracca was in acres of space in the corridor, that just can't happen. Then our turnovers piled up and it was a bridge too far. Twice our midfield has gone missing during important periods and twice we've been beaten.

[bornadog]

Certainly early on when the game was on the line, they were given way too much latitude. I recall one passage where Petracca was in acres of space in the corridor, that just can't happen. Then our turnovers piled up and it was a bridge too far. Twice our midfield has gone missing during important periods and twice we've been beaten.

The turnovers mainly came from the back six, and that killed us.

We were way up on clearances and stoppages, including in the first quarter.

If we talk midfield, and Libba yes, they won the battle there. Similar thing happened in the Richmond game, where Libba was absolutely on top in the first half, and then only had 1 disposal in the 3rd quarter.

We need a plan B when Libba is being beaten

[comrade]

The turnovers mainly came from the back six, and that killed us.

We were way up on clearances and stoppages, including in the first quarter.

If we talk midfield, and Libba yes, they won the battle there. Similar thing happened in the Richmond game, where Libba was absolutely on top in the first half, and then only had 1 disposal in the 3rd quarter.

We need a plan B when Libba is being beaten

If you clamp Libba, you go a fair way to stopping us. Will be interesting to see how other clubs try to do it now it's been proven effective twice.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

If you clamp Libba, you go a fair way to stopping us. Will be interesting to see how other clubs try to do it now it's been proven effective twice.

Especially with no Dunkley.

[comrade]

Especially with no Dunkley.

He has been such a loss.

[Grantysghost]

Especially with no Dunkley.

God we miss him hey. Why was he the ruckman... Ever?

[Grantysghost]

If you clamp Libba, you go a fair way to stopping us. Will be interesting to see how other clubs try to do it now it's been proven effective twice.

I think it goes back to the thread MJP started with the question do we go head to head or do we plan to stop them.
We went head to head.
Melbourne had the plan. We know which worked.

So they've played their hand or some of it, next time will be fascinating as we countered it well for three quarters.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

I think it goes back to the thread MJP started with the question do we go head to head or do we plan to stop them.
We went head to head.
Melbourne had the plan. We know which worked.

So they've played their hand or some of it, next time will be fascinating as we countered it well for three quarters.

They revealed more than their hand. They showed us everything. Credit to them. They totally shut us down. But it's round 11 and it's now up to us to figure out how to respond. Melbourne have set a blueprint on how to stop us. But they also gave up their strategy for winning. Up to everyone else to break it down.

[Rocco Jones]

Baz looks good bursting out the front of the stoppage (see our first goal) but defensively he's the worst of our mids, which is a liability when you consider Bont, Libba and Macrae aren't exactly focused on what their direct opponent is doing either.

I hear you, until he gets stronger in the area, I would prefer him in his current role. The issue is we need someone to take up added load and I prefer him to Lip. Is there a run/tag type we could go with?

[comrade]

I hear you, until he gets stronger in the area, I would prefer him in his current role. The issue is we need someone to take up added load and I prefer him to Lip. Is there a run/tag type we could go with?

Toby McLean was really finding some form in that role prior to the ACL. *!*!*!*!ing COVID has put his comeback on hold but if he can somehow get match fit enough, I'd be replacing Lippa with him in a heartbeat.

[bornadog]

I hear you, until he gets stronger in the area, I would prefer him in his current role. The issue is we need someone to take up added load and I prefer him to Lip. Is there a run/tag type we could go with?

Mclean should be available. He needs a couple of games in the VFL, and he can be brought in to do the run with role.

Edit: Comrade beat me to it

[Ozza]

so we have the following on the bench

Martin, Butler, Sweet, R,Smith, West, Lipinski, Gardner, Scott

who are the final 4 (and the 1)

I'm going with;
Martin, R.Smith, Lipinski, Gardner - and Scott as Medi Sub.

Think Westy, Sweet and Butler will miss out.

[GVGjr]

so we have the following on the bench

Martin, Butler, Sweet, R,Smith, West, Lipinski, Gardner, Scott

who are the final 4 (and the 1)

I'm going with;
Martin, R.Smith, Lipinski, Gardner - and Scott as Medi Sub.

Think Westy, Sweet and Butler will miss out.
That would be my guess as well

[azabob]

ROUND 12 TEAM

Fremantle v Western Bulldogs
Sunday 6 June, 4.40pm AWST / 6.40pm AEST
Optus Stadium

B: Taylor Duryea, Alex Keath, Hayden Crozier
HB: Bailey Williams, Zaine Cordy, Caleb Daniel
C: Bailey Dale, Tom Liberatore, Jason Johannisen
HF: Lachie Hunter, Josh Bruce, Cody Weightman
F: Mitch Hannan, Aaron Naughton, Marcus Bontempelli
R: Tim English, Jack Macrae, Bailey Smith
Int: Stefan Martin, Anthony Scott, Roarke Smith, Ryan Gardner
Emer: Rhylee West, Louis Butler, Pat Lipinski, Jordon Sweet

In: Stefan Martin, Anthony Scott, Mitch Hannan, Ryan Gardner
Out: Riley Garcia (concussion), Louis Butler (medi-sub), Pat Lipinski, Lachie McNeil, Jordon Sweet

[comrade]

When are Sunday teams finalised now?

EDIT: Nevermind :D

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Interesting changes. Essentially Scott for McNeil and Martin for Sweet. But then we've brought in a forward and tall defender for 2 mids.

[Axe Man]

Not surprising. The match committee love Scott and have previously shown they have little patience when Lipinski underperforms.

[comrade]

Will be interesting to see how the extra height in defence works for us, unfortunately neither Cordy or Gardner are proficient at intercepting but it might free one of them up to give us some ability to win the ball back in the air in D50. Maybe we even try to get Keath off the leash?

I like the ins and really hope Stef can get back to his early round form.

[kruder]

Lippa has had his chances, I had my fingers crossed for him but until he can improve his defensive aspects of his game he stays in the seconds for mine, I couldn’t trust him in a prelim at this stage.

Would like to have seen Westy get a look into our midfield rotations while we lack depth in there.

[bornadog]

I am happy with the team.

[Grantysghost]

I am happy with the team.

It's time for Bevo to go, he's had his chance now we need some fresh ideas :cool:

[G-Mo77]

Gardner straight back in? He did nothing wrong pre injury but bloody he'll, what has Lewis Young done to Bevo?

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Team looks unbalanced for mine.

I don't disagree with Lipinski - he's been putrid basically all year and I'm not sure I'd play him again this year.

I think West as a mid/forward would have been nice to see, given we're a bit light in the midfield.

[azabob]

Will be interesting to see how the extra height in defence works for us, unfortunately neither Cordy or Gardner are proficient at intercepting but it might free one of them up to give us some ability to win the ball back in the air in D50. Maybe we even try to get Keath off the leash?

I like the ins and really hope Stef can get back to his early round form.

Bevo alluded earlier the week he’d like to look at the taller defence with a view to our games against Geelong and the Eagles with their tall timber. I’m actually surprised he followed through with it.

[GVGjr]

I am happy with the team.

Same here, no excuses

[bulldogsthru&thru]

I don’t mind the ins at all. Just look a bit unbalanced but I suppose we don’t really have any mids left besides West.

[Go_Dogs]

Plenty of experience / age in.

It’s a decent side.

I wonder if Keath plays interceptor, or we have Cordy/Gardner do it with more of a spoil first mentality?

[G-Mo77]

Plenty of experience / age in.

It’s a decent side.

I wonder if Keath plays interceptor, or we have Cordy/Gardner do it with more of a spoil first mentality?

I'd guess so, it's pretty much all Gardner can do, punch the ball. It's why I'm so disappointed we didn't put time into Young as he seems to have a better tool kit. I guess we'll never see it.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

I'd guess so, it's pretty much all Gardner can do, punch the ball. It's why I'm so disappointed we didn't put time into Young as he seems to have a better tool kit. I guess we'll never see it.

We really should only be playing one of Gardner or Cordy and not both. They're essentially the same player - undersized, questionable defensive game, no rebound. Gardner has improved and at least covers the ground better, Cordy has the experience but I fail to see why we play both.

Agree that Young makes more sense if we wanted a tall defensive group given he adds a point of difference.

[hujsh]

We really should only be playing one of Gardner or Cordy and not both. They're essentially the same player - undersized, questionable defensive game, no rebound. Gardner has improved and at least covers the ground better, Cordy has the experience but I fail to see why we play both.

Agree that Young makes more sense if we wanted a tall defensive group given he adds a point of difference.

Gardner doesn't seem undersized, perhaps a bit slim you might argue but I'd say that's to keep mobility

[kruder]

I like Bevo experimenting with the three tall defenders, he gave an insight on SEN during the of the week on his thoughts on the balance of the side definitely worth a listen.

Will will have to think about it against Melbourne, Brisbane, Geelong, Richmond and WCE.

I think what it does do, is enable Williams to get really dangerous off half back(rather then being third tall) I think he Daniel and Dale will be critical in generating scores in this one with our midfield lacking a little depth.

[bulldogtragic]

West or Lippa the medical sub obviously. Off to read Scott’s Facebook now to see who it should be.

[Bumper Bulldogs]

West or Lippa the medical sub obviously. Off to read Scott’s Facebook now to see who it should be.

Scotty has been pretty quite so he must be in ��

[Bullies]

We really should only be playing one of Gardner or Cordy and not both. They're essentially the same player - undersized, questionable defensive game, no rebound. Gardner has improved and at least covers the ground better, Cordy has the experience but I fail to see why we play both.

Agree that Young makes more sense if we wanted a tall defensive group given he adds a point of difference. Gardner plays a different role to Young. In the coming weeks we have Cats/Eagles so will need our tall defenders. Gardner will need to play a shut down role and that is not something Young can do.

[G-Mo77]

Gardner plays a different role to Young. In the coming weeks we have Cats/Eagles so will need our tall defenders. Gardner will need to play a shut down role and that is not something Young can do.

He's never really been given the chance to play that role.

[Nuggety Back Pocket]

Gardner plays a different role to Young. In the coming weeks we have Cats/Eagles so will need our tall defenders. Gardner will need to play a shut down role and that is not something Young can do.

Lew Young appeals more as a change second ruck man who could eventually take over from Stef Martin, allowing Tim English as a permanent tall forward, where he looks better suited. I also see Schache's future as a tall forward, in doubt, given our current 3 talls established, with the prospect of Jamarra to follow. Worth reading in today's Herald Sun by Mick Malthouse, his thoughts on Schache as a tall defender. IMO both Young and Schache's futures are in doubt, which is a pity, given their current lack of opportunities.

[DOG GOD]

If Schache hadn’t been contracted this year, he would’ve been given the boot last year.

[bulldogtragic]

If Schache hadn’t been contracted this year, he would’ve been given the boot last year.

I wound go that far about last year. Unless something dramatic happens, I see him being traded for peanuts this year. Which is a damn shame because I rate the kid, but sometimes they just don’t come on as we all want.

The slip side is say he and Wally are on just over average salary, $750,000 combined and we delist/trade about four others, and the wiggle room we apparently have in our salary cap, we will have a good amount tucked away to bring in talent.

[DOG GOD]

I wound go that far about last year. Unless something dramatic happens, I see him being traded for peanuts this year. Which is a damn shame because I rate the kid, but sometimes they just don’t come on as we all want.

The slip side is say he and Wally are on just over average salary, $750,000 combined and we delist/trade about four others, and the wiggle room we apparently have in our salary cap, we will have a good amount tucked away to bring in talent.

I thought Schache might’ve been a possibility for a trade to NM last year, but I’m guessing no one showed any interest.

[bulldogtragic]

I thought Schache might’ve been a possibility for a trade to NM last year, but I’m guessing no one showed any interest.

I never saw a single credible source or news outlet mention Schache being up for trade last year by us or him seeking a trade. Maybe he wasn’t, and if so, ‘interest’ has nothing to do with it.

[DOG GOD]

I never saw a single credible source or news outlet mention Schache being up for trade last year by us or him seeking a trade. Maybe he wasn’t, and if so, ‘interest’ has nothing to do with it.
True.