Western Bulldogs V Essendon - 1st Elimination Final 2021

[josie]

Derm stated they were all there. Kids puts his body on the line and draws the frees - ill disciplined by the Bombers

Onya Dermie!! I think he sad the only possible dubious one was the one where ?Merret? pushed Cody over the boundary line a smidge after Cody had disposed of the ball. I agree that one was a little fortunate but the other 3 were all definitely there.

[Go_Dogs]

Derm stated they were all there. Kids puts his body on the line and draws the frees - ill disciplined by the Bombers

Yep, Derm and Eddie called it well.

[The bulldog tragician]

How wonderful to humiliate our hated foes from across the Maribyrnong. And how wonderful to see a return in the second half to the footy that saw us top 2 pretty much all year. I was flat at half time, even though I still hoped we’d grind out a win, the teams lack of zest saddened me. But that win could see a team like ours, which thrives on emotion, get back their self belief. I think we’ll enjoy a week in the Brisbane sun and then who knows? Our best is better than Brisbane’s, and there were great signs from Treloar and Dunkley who are very important if we’re to go deep into finals.

I hope someone has advised Cody on turning off his social media. He’s being subjected to vile homophobic abuse by heroic fans in red and black.

The love fest re Essendon in the lead up to this match was sickening. The gushing over Jake Stringer well over the top. With every article praising him I became more confident we’d win. There are still Essendon fanboys and girls everywhere in the media. To know our guys have kept the Days since Essendon Last Won a final account going for another year (at least) is very satisfying.

[Before I Die]

Onya Dermie!! I think he sad the only possible dubious one was the one where ?Merret? pushed Cody over the boundary line a smidge after Cody had disposed of the ball. I agree that one was a little fortunate but the other 3 were all definitely there.

There were two Essendon players pushing Cody across the boundary and the one behind clearly was pushing him squarely in the back with extended arms. A clear free kick.

[FrediKanoute]

Great win by the boys. Really bossed it after half time, though I will admit to thinking we were not clear until Vanders goal. Thought Cody was great. There are free kicks and there are free kicks - he earnt every free kick, not by ducking and drawing, but by being first to the contest and attacking the ball. He was rewarded for being first to the ball.

Thought Schache was great. 2 goals, an assist for Vanders goal and he forced Essendon to play a player on him. The result being space for Cody and Naughts.

Out backline was superb. The way we set up the wall, especially after half time and soaked up pressure and then broke from the back was a master class. Wood, Williams, Dale, Daniel superb with Keath and Gardner were fantastic.

I think we can beat Brissy. Wont be easy and it will be close, but we have the tools. Just need to believe.

[DOG GOD]

With Bris we can’t allow their mid forwards to kick multiple goals…guys like McCarthy, Bailey, MCluggage etc.

[Raw Toast]

Derm stated they were all there. Kids puts his body on the line and draws the frees - ill disciplined by the Bombers

I do adore Cody, and I think that the frees were largely there. But I also think that there's generations of annoying small-ish players who we used to term 'the punchables' cause you see them and your fists automatically clench (Ballentyne comes to mind as just one example) that are envious of the way Cody's glorious free-flowing blond locks help him get a bit more noticed.

He's got a wonderful way of annoying opponents and then benefiting from their ill-discipline (you can see that they want to hurt him, as the fake tough Merrett tried to do).

I thought that Cody was our most important player early, as much for his inspiring pressure as the frees that he won and converted. The smother around half-back midway through the first quarter really sparked us.

Nevertheless, I wish he'd get front and centre for at least 90% of the contests involving Naughton, Yorkshire, or another tall. It's a fundamental flaw in his game which is exacerbated by the fact that we don't really have anyone else who consistently roves to the deep kicks into our forward line (though Hannah sometimes shows potential).

Cody has shown through the season that when he's disciplined enough to get front and square (rather than fly for the heroic mark against our talls) he can rove the ball well. He can be up there with the best small forwards in the game if he makes that adjustment. And I hope that he makes it soon, because one of the reasons opponents too frequently sweep the ball out of our forward line with ease is because none of our forwards have stayed down when the ball was kicked in.

[comrade]

That was Naughts’ best game in ages, brought manic pressure, clunked a few and even kicked a critical goal from a right foot snap (pretty sure that’s a career first). That goal assist to Hannan was special too.

Fingers crossed he takes confidence from that and unleashes next week.

[angelopetraglia]

What is this rubbish from Jon Ralph in The Tackle

Cody Weightman has an acrobatic way of maximising all contact that means AFL umpires cannot help but pay him free kicks.

Of the four free kicks he was awarded on a sodden Tasmanian day which he converted into goals, one was probably there.

[EasternWest]

Nevertheless, I wish he'd get front and centre for at least 90% of the contests involving Naughton, Yorkshire, or another tall..

Could not agree with this more, Bread. I wish anyone would.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

What is this rubbish from Jon Ralph in The Tackle

Cody Weightman has an acrobatic way of maximising all contact that means AFL umpires cannot help but pay him free kicks.

Of the four free kicks he was awarded on a sodden Tasmanian day which he converted into goals, one was probably there.

No ONE probably want there. Being head locked, collared and shouldered in the head are typically free kicks in our game. Another "journo" leading the Essendon bandwagon.

[bulldogtragic]

That was Naughts’ best game in ages, brought manic pressure, clunked a few and even kicked a critical goal from a right foot snap (pretty sure that’s a career first). That goal assist to Hannan was special too.

Fingers crossed he takes confidence from that and unleashes next week.

I’m hoping the momentum they all built in the second half turns things back around. Every player got better in the second half and if that can create that energy around the group that bodes well for all. I’m glad we didn’t slow down to avoid injuries. To put the foot on their throat, put pressure down on it reminds us and everyone what we are capable of when every one of the 22 is playing to their potential. Like the WCE win in 2016, the enthusiasm of killing our prey in a ruthless manner was infectious in that group, and belief returned.

[angelopetraglia]

Absolute Joke. Clickbait Murdoch rag.

https://twitter.com/superfooty/status/1431942756834766850?s=21

[SonofScray]

The Maribyrnong River is in danger of being reverted back to the Saltwater River given the tears of the EOC faithful flowing so freely this evening. What a despicable bunch.

[bulldogtragic]

What is this rubbish from Jon Ralph in The Tackle

Cody Weightman has an acrobatic way of maximising all contact that means AFL umpires cannot help but pay him free kicks.

Of the four free kicks he was awarded on a sodden Tasmanian day which he converted into goals, one was probably there.

We ruined the narrative his paper and every other media was running. Someone’s got to be to blame for their narrative be ruined.

I don’t care. Every media outlet invested is Essendon with their life savings, despite knowing the historical risk. When they inquired into where the capital was it was just a meeting with VM Varga holding a coffee cup for them all to drink. So drink it. All of it.

[Grantysghost]

Absolute Joke. Clickbait Murdoch rag.

https://twitter.com/superfooty/status/1431942756834766850?s=21

I don’t engage with any AFL media it’s all rubbish, probably the worst in world sport.

The irony is they’re actually trolling the Dons fans by converting their rage into sweet sweet advertising dollars.

[jazzadogs]

That was Naughts’ best game in ages, brought manic pressure, clunked a few and even kicked a critical goal from a right foot snap (pretty sure that’s a career first). That goal assist to Hannan was special too.

Fingers crossed he takes confidence from that and unleashes next week.

That goal was from the exact same spot as the entrance the players use to the Whitten Oval ground, where they always practise taking shots at the end of training. Probably the shot that Astro has practised more than any other.

[Twodogs]

There were two Essendon players pushing Cody across the boundary and the one behind clearly was pushing him squarely in the back with extended arms. A clear free kick.

Exactly. It was push #2 that was penalized. From the player on the grassy knoll!

[bornadog]

That goal was from the exact same spot as the entrance the players use to the Whitten Oval ground, where they always practise taking shots at the end of training. Probably the shot that Astro has practised more than any other.

He kicked it with his non preferred right foot

[jazzadogs]

He kicked it with his non preferred right foot

Yeh I get that - but a left footer from that position is very difficult, so I wouldn't be surprised if he has practised the right-foot snap.

I thought Hannan should have done the same thing when he got a kick in a similar spot in the third.

[merantau]

The Maribyrnong River is in danger of being reverted back to the Saltwater River given the tears of the EOC faithful flowing so freely this evening. What a despicable bunch.
This game will no doubt enter Bomber mythology as the "Cody Weightman Charity Match" - the football eqivalent of Hitler's big lie that the German Army was not defeated in WW1 but was betrayed by its politicians.

This is what happened. Essendon was NOT defeated. The game was stolen from them by an umpiring conspiracy hatched in Launceston graveyard on the evening prior to the match. In amongst the moss-covered headstones, crumbling and mis-aligned, surrounded by a swirling mist, the dastardly plotters linked arms and, heads bowed, hatched their master plan to crush the ambition of the Bomber faithful. And they gave it a name - Operation 3F. Their code for "Operation Flea Free-kick Fest."

Conveniently forgotten amongst all the angst, hair tearing and gnashing of teeth are the following: two of Essington's goals resulted from 50mt penalties and they failed to score a solitary goal in the 2nd half - the first team to achieve this in a final for 65 years!

Gotta luv myths! Cry me a Saltwater River, Essington supporters. Bring on St. Essington's Day 2022.

[angelopetraglia]

This game will no doubt enter Bomber mythology as the "Cody Weightman Charity Match" - the football eqivalent of Hitler's big lie that the German Army was not defeated in WW1 but was betrayed by its politicians.

This is what happened. Essendon was NOT defeated. The game was stolen from them by an umpiring conspiracy hatched in Launceston graveyard on the evening prior to the match. In amongst the moss-covered headstones, crumbling and mis-aligned, surrounded by a swirling mist, the dastardly plotters linked arms and, heads bowed, hatched their master plan to crush the ambition of the Bomber faithful. And they gave it a name - Operation 3F. Their code for "Operation Flea Free-kick Fest."

Conveniently forgotten amongst all the angst, hair tearing and gnashing of teeth are the following: two of Essington's goals resulted from 50mt penalties and they failed to score a solitary goal in the 2nd half - the first team to achieve this in a final for 65 years!

Gotta luv myths! Cry me a Saltwater River, Essington supporters. Bring on St. Essington's Day 2022.

Ha. Very good. Half of their goals directly from 50m penalties. They have selective memories.

[mjp]

What is this rubbish from Jon Ralph in The Tackle

Cody Weightman has an acrobatic way of maximising all contact that means AFL umpires cannot help but pay him free kicks.

Of the four free kicks he was awarded on a sodden Tasmanian day which he converted into goals, one was probably there.

One of the Lystics guys posted an interesting tweet about Cody suggesting that drawing free kicks has been a part of his game since before he was drafted:

https://twitter.com/LysticsAFL/status/1431876082295140354?s=20

The comment "It's frustrating for opposition fans but is all part of the art" really resonated with me. Some players just have the knack of getting free kicks. I would have suggest two were there, one was tenuous but 'probably' there (Draper contact) and one wasn't there at all - not even a little bit and I genuinely have no idea what the umpire was looking at (Merrett one)...but what can I say, some time you get the good and other times the 'not so good'. Our free kick total vs PA last week was incredible given it was a 2-point game - and I think it was mentioned on here without being highlighted...

I actually think the club should make a statement sticking up for Cody - some of the treatment on socials is really unpleasant - and I think Essendon should do the same. We need to take some steps to change the narrative here otherwise the next free kick Cody receives will be sometime in the 2022 season...the umpires will be hearing all the noise and without some kind of 'leveller' there is no chance he gets a kick next week - and he will be matched up against Starcevich who will be belting him off the ball from the first bounce.

[Happy Days]

What if we already have made a statement:

https://i.postimg.cc/1tNLxqJG/Capture3.png

[Mantis]

What if we already have made a statement:

https://i.postimg.cc/1tNLxqJG/Capture3.png

Juice went into full on big brother mode last night.

[EasternWest]

What if we already have made a statement:

https://i.postimg.cc/1tNLxqJG/Capture3.png

Ha ha that's great.

[Happy Days]

Bruce full on rules. Even his apology for posting liberal agitprop suck tweets on IG was adorable.

Why would you, as an Essendon supporter, DM abuse to cool guy Cody Weightman when Dylan Shiel is right there anyway?

[bulldogtragic]

Juice could be sitting at home. Restricted and maybe in discomfort. He could be forgiven for just concentrating on his health and young family.

But instead he jumps into social media to shield his young teammate. Doing the team things even at home on the couch. Kudos Juice.

[jeemak]

Did Essendon really get two goals direct from 50s or was it just the Lewy/ Devon Smith decision?

[Happy Days]

Did Essendon really get two goals direct from 50s or was it just the Lewy/ Devon Smith decision?

Just the one. Their other two 50s resulted in potential shots but Caldwell handballed the first one off for reasons known only to him, and they were unlucky enough for the least skilled player in the league to end up with the other one.

Leaving aside the legitimacy of the 50m penalties themselves, how telling is it that three of their most meaningful forward entries for the entire game came from umpire escorts? We totally wrecked their ball movement and our team defence looks to be back in good health.

[EasternWest]

Just the one. Their other two 50s resulted in potential shots but Caldwell handballed the first one off for reasons known only to him, and they were unlucky enough for the least skilled player in the league to end up with the other one.

Leaving aside the legitimacy of the 50m penalties themselves, how telling is it that three of their most meaningful forward entries for the entire game came from umpire escorts? We totally wrecked their ball movement and our team defence looks to be back in good health.

It's good to have you back HD.

[Happy Days]

It's good to have you back HD.

Thanks cuz.

[hujsh]

It's also good to have the concept of happy days back after the last 3 weeks

[jeemak]

Just the one. Their other two 50s resulted in potential shots but Caldwell handballed the first one off for reasons known only to him, and they were unlucky enough for the least skilled player in the league to end up with the other one.

Leaving aside the legitimacy of the 50m penalties themselves, how telling is it that three of their most meaningful forward entries for the entire game came from umpire escorts? We totally wrecked their ball movement and our team defence looks to be back in good health.

Absolutely we did, and it's important to be factual which you have been.

Basically their game stood up whilst ours was down. As soon as we clicked into gear theirs crumbled and ours became stronger. We ended up smashing them in contested possessions and almost had double the tackles inside fifty they did.

I hope internally as well as externally they lament the umpiring for as long as possible. It will distract them from realising how far away they are from the better teams, and how much work they need to do in changing the way they play to match it with them.

[bornadog]

Absolutely we did, and it's important to be factual which you have been.

Basically their game stood up whilst ours was down. As soon as we clicked into gear theirs crumbled and ours became stronger. We ended up smashing them in contested possessions and almost had double the tackles inside fifty they did.

I hope internally as well as externally they lament the umpiring for as long as possible. It will distract them from realising how far away they are from the better teams, and how much work they need to do in changing the way they play to match it with them.

We also worked on the centre clearances with a view of stopping Jake just waltzing out of the middle.

[jeemak]

It's good to have you back HD.

Agreed.

[Mantis]

Absolutely we did, and it's important to be factual which you have been.

Basically their game stood up whilst ours was down. As soon as we clicked into gear theirs crumbled and ours became stronger. We ended up smashing them in contested possessions and almost had double the tackles inside fifty they did.

I hope internally as well as externally they lament the umpiring for as long as possible. It will distract them from realising how far away they are from the better teams, and how much work they need to do in changing the way they play to match it with them.

With the deterioration of playing conditions due to the rain the inside contest became that of one inside a phone box and when our best inside mid is the best at that in the game it was weighed heavily in our favour. We did struggle early on when the game was played in more space, but when it became a territorial slog, we smacked them from all angles.

[Stefcep]

With the deterioration of playing conditions due to the rain the inside contest became that of one inside a phone box and when our best inside mid is the best at that in the game it was weighed heavily in our favour. We did struggle early on when the game was played in more space, but when it became a territorial slog, we smacked them from all angles.

Interesting that post match a point made was that the weather conditions in Brisbane are nothing like that.

[jeemak]

With the deterioration of playing conditions due to the rain the inside contest became that of one inside a phone box and when our best inside mid is the best at that in the game it was weighed heavily in our favour. We did struggle early on when the game was played in more space, but when it became a territorial slog, we smacked them from all angles.

I think the conditions and the situation more broadly kicked us into gear and I'm grateful for it. Though when we bring the heat alongside better ball handling in the dry we'll be able to match it with anyone. If you recall things were supposed to turn out for the better for West Coast once it dried up at Optus Stadium, but it didn't quite turn out that way.

Strong attack on the ball, good pressure, a tight defencive structure and a willingness to run with the footy and use it well is universal/ agnostic to conditions. We bring these things and we're a pretty good team and easily able to account for the likes of Essendon. We just didn't bring these elements to much of the first half which is why we were all flipping out!

[bornadog]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E-AhGWlUcAYtqV9?format=jpg&name=medium

[Mantis]

I think the conditions and the situation more broadly kicked us into gear and I'm grateful for it. Though when we bring the heat alongside better ball handling in the dry we'll be able to match it with anyone. If you recall things were supposed to turn out for the better for West Coast once it dried up at Optus Stadium, but it didn't quite turn out that way.

Strong attack on the ball, good pressure, a tight defencive structure and a willingness to run with the footy and use it well is universal/ agnostic to conditions. We bring these things and we're a pretty good team and easily able to account for the likes of Essendon. We just didn't bring these elements to much of the first half which is why we were all flipping out!

I think that said more about WC than us, but I do agree that when we're ''on'' we can match it with all... let's hope we got the reminder to what it looks like with our 2nd half performance and we bring it again against Bris.

[Jeanette54]

1026

[Jeanette54]

1027

Some mornings its just good to be alive.

[Go_Dogs]

One of the Lystics guys posted an interesting tweet about Cody suggesting that drawing free kicks has been a part of his game since before he was drafted:

https://twitter.com/LysticsAFL/status/1431876082295140354?s=20

The comment "It's frustrating for opposition fans but is all part of the art" really resonated with me. Some players just have the knack of getting free kicks. I would have suggest two were there, one was tenuous but 'probably' there (Draper contact) and one wasn't there at all - not even a little bit and I genuinely have no idea what the umpire was looking at (Merrett one)...but what can I say, some time you get the good and other times the 'not so good'. Our free kick total vs PA last week was incredible given it was a 2-point game - and I think it was mentioned on here without being highlighted...

I actually think the club should make a statement sticking up for Cody - some of the treatment on socials is really unpleasant - and I think Essendon should do the same. We need to take some steps to change the narrative here otherwise the next free kick Cody receives will be sometime in the 2022 season...the umpires will be hearing all the noise and without some kind of 'leveller' there is no chance he gets a kick next week - and he will be matched up against Starcevich who will be belting him off the ball from the first bounce.

Agreed on the last point.

The game is so fickle…. 1000000000% that is exactly what will happen.

[Happy Days]

Yeah we should fully expect Cody to not get another free kick for the rest of the finals.

Luckily for us, and contrary to what his Instagram comments section would tell you, he's a total gun who is super dangerous any time the ball's near him inside 50. You don't need to look any further than that poor bastard Marty Gleeson flopping to his knees and chucking a bearhug on him to see how terrified defenders get one on one with Weightman with the ball coming in.

[Go_Dogs]

Yeah we should fully expect Cody to not get another free kick for the rest of the finals.

Luckily for us, and contrary to what his Instagram comments section would tell you, he's a total gun who is super dangerous any time the ball's near him inside 50. You don't need to look any further than that poor bastard Marty Gleeson flopping to his knees and chucking a bearhug on him to see how terrified defenders get one on one with Weightman with the ball coming in.

Maybe he becomes the new Selwood who gets 5 a game still no matter what.

[bulldogtragic]

Just watching the replay, the ending is great. Knowing the full context.

Essendon are facing down being the first side in 65 years to not score a goal in the second half.
Jake Stringer who pissed away his opportunity to stay with us has the ball to stop that record.
(Schache was in part from the trade, kicked two and a GA)
Stringer kicks from 45 out.
He kicks a dumb assed low barrel, missing comfortably, denying himself a third goal (equally Naughtons 3), and condemns Essendon to a horrific 65 year record that stains their year.
Stringer need only have been a little more professional, thus walking off equaling the goals from a player and personally saved Essendon the 65 year record humiliation. I know, I know, professionalism is not his bag.


Was a real Cinderella finish as far as I’m concerned. Up there with Warnie & McGrath retiring together.

[jeemak]

Just watching the replay, the ending is great. Knowing the full context.

Essendon are facing down being the first side in 65 years to not score a goal in the second half.
Jake Stringer who pissed away his opportunity to stay with us has the ball to stop that record.
(Schache was in part from the trade, kicked two and a GA)
Stringer kicks from 45 out.
He kicks a dumb assed low barrel, missing comfortably, denying himself a third goal (equally Naughtons 3), and condemns Essendon to a horrific 65 year record that stains their year.
Stringer need only have been a little more professional, thus walking off equaling the goals from a player and personally saved Essendon the 65 year record humiliation. I know, I know, professionalism is not his bag.


Was a real Cinderella finish as far as I’m concerned. Up there with Warnie & McGrath retiring together.

Yeah they'll be filthy internally about Jake's lack of self centredness......and convince themselves it was out of character. Which is great.

[merantau]

"Yeah they'll be filthy internally about Jake's lack of self centredness"

That's Gold Medal facetious.

[bornadog]

"Yeah they'll be filthy internally about Jake's lack of self centredness"

That's Gold Medal facetious.

they would also be livid that he only had 9 disposals

[jeemak]

Interesting coaches votes. Seems even Ben Rutten is biased towards the Bulldogs. Though I'm surprised we got any players in, given how amazing and valiant Essendon were and how the umpires won the game for us.

https://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/1011606/libba-the-coaches-pick?fbclid=IwAR0qfBo2goxLtZ32nDPTD_ttpygrnHXQk9vL5m9v9zav8h dKyj1JCVBPINo

Gary Ayres Medal voting – Bulldogs vs Bombers

7 - Tom Liberatore (WB)

6 - Jack Macrae (WB)

5 - Marcus Bontempelli (WB)

5 - Cody Weightman (WB)

4 - Darcy Parish (ESS)

2 - Aaron Naughton (WB)

1 - Jordan Ridley (ESS)

[EasternWest]

Interesting coaches votes. Seems even Ben Rutten is biased towards the Bulldogs. In fact I'm surprised we got any players in, given how amazing and valiant Essendon were and how the umpires won the game for us.

https://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/1011606/libba-the-coaches-pick?fbclid=IwAR0qfBo2goxLtZ32nDPTD_ttpygrnHXQk9vL5m9v9zav8h dKyj1JCVBPINo

Gary Ayres Medal voting – Bulldogs vs Bombers

7 - Tom Liberatore (WB)

6 - Jack Macrae (WB)

5 - Marcus Bontempelli (WB)

5 - Cody Weightman (WB)

4 - Darcy Parish (ESS)

2 - Aaron Naughton (WB)

1 - Jordan Ridley (ESS)

Those votes seem about right to me, although to be honest I'm a bit surprised Bont is there.

On a side note, Jordan Ridley really is a fine player.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Rutten is a turncoat. Must have been sent in by the AFL to sabotage their entitlement to a finals win.

[jeemak]

Those votes seem about right to me, although to be honest I'm a bit surprised Bont is there.

On a side note, Jordan Ridley really is a fine player.

I think you could probably swap Parish for Bont and that'd be about right. Bont was pretty clean when we needed someone to be.

[EasternWest]

I think you could probably swap Parish for Bont and that'd be about right. Bont was pretty clean when we needed someone to be.

Fair enough.

[comrade]

Naughts and Weightman getting coaches votes in a final, you love to see it.

[Happy Days]

Bevo has been rigging these votes for Bont all year. I wouldn't be surprised if thats a 5 from Bevo and a 0 from Rutten.

[Sedat]

Interesting coaches votes. Seems even Ben Rutten is biased towards the Bulldogs. Though I'm surprised we got any players in, given how amazing and valiant Essendon were and how the umpires won the game for us.

https://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/news/1011606/libba-the-coaches-pick?fbclid=IwAR0qfBo2goxLtZ32nDPTD_ttpygrnHXQk9vL5m9v9zav8h dKyj1JCVBPINo

Gary Ayres Medal voting – Bulldogs vs Bombers

7 - Tom Liberatore (WB)

6 - Jack Macrae (WB)

5 - Marcus Bontempelli (WB)

5 - Cody Weightman (WB)

4 - Darcy Parish (ESS)

2 - Aaron Naughton (WB)

1 - Jordan Ridley (ESS)
How did Nik Cox miss out? He was amazingly athletic for a 200cm unused sub.

[jazzadogs]

they would also be livid that he only had 9 disposals

Saw a cool stat - Jake Stringer is the first player to play in five consecutive Western Bulldogs finals wins! Congrats Jake!

Bombers fans still going spare on social media about Cody being given one dodgy free kick. Of course according to them he played for all of them, and one guy even said he should front the tribunal! Incredible stuff.

[jeemak]

Saw a cool stat - Jake Stringer is the first player to play in five consecutive Western Bulldogs finals wins! Congrats Jake!

Bombers fans still going spare on social media about Cody being given one dodgy free kick. Of course according to them he played for all of them, and one guy even said he should front the tribunal! Incredible stuff.

It sounds like they're now participating in a group masturbation circle, as your mate so eloquently termed it.

[jeemak]

So I've just seen the Flea first free kick, and he does roll and he does force the hands over the shoulder.

To me that's fine, if you're going to tackle go for the waist. You can't give a free kick away if you hit the waist and it frees the game up because the hands a free and the player can dispose of it. If you want to pin the arms then take the risk of arms causing YOUR arms to slip up over the shoulder.

It's not rocket surgery, it's not cynical. Think of it this way, if a player uses their arms to shrug a tackle and it slips low and results in a trip people don't flip out. Why? Because it's incumbent upon the tackler to keep the tackle above the knees.

The contentiousness around this topic is mind boggling.

[1eyedog]

Saw a cool stat - Jake Stringer is the first player to play in five consecutive Western Bulldogs finals wins! Congrats Jake!

Bombers fans still going spare on social media about Cody being given one dodgy free kick. Of course according to them he played for all of them, and one guy even said he should front the tribunal! Incredible stuff.

And long may that fire burn.

[EasternWest]

And long may that fire burn.

Nah. I'd be more satisfied with Essington not even playing finals.

[1eyedog]

But this is just so much better! The let down is oppressive. It's quite magical.

[jeemak]

The next Flea free kick JB's instinct was to say "Weightman taken high" and then Chris Johnson jumps in and says "My son plays for Essendon" and the narrative changes.

Draper clearly felt him, and swatted opportunistically. Free kick, technical, but a free.

[jeemak]

There's fourteen minutes to go in the second now, and it's been wet for half an hour. What is this mystical dry weather that could have dictated the game's course?

Genuine if my auntie had.....so on and so forth situation.

[jeemak]

Peter Wright should have been given a holding the man free against English with about eleven minutes to go in the second, assuming he kicks it they're two points up.

[jeemak]

Naughton the best big man on the ground, nine minutes to go in the second. Didn't realise how awesome he was.

[jeemak]

Man, that first half was a lot less one sided than the commentary and post match commentary would have you believe. As much as EFC tried we either kept up or pushed, however, we were a bit lucky they couldn't score a goal or two earlier. That being said, an earlier goal after our better patch in the first portion of the second would have resulted in the ball going back to the centre and who knows what happens then.

Dusting off my dancing shoes for the second half.

[jazzadogs]

Peter Wright should have been given a holding the man free against English with about eleven minutes to go in the second, assuming he kicks it they're two points up.

Tim got away with some pretty outrageous bear hugs in the ruck.

[jeemak]

For the Cody push over the boundary all I can think was it was essentially a downfield free kick but because the down field was further away from the goals it was paid where the infringement happened.

Interesting, because down field is usually after a kick, but technically I've seen them paid after a handball as well. With that in mind the free kick albeit technical, is there.

[jeemak]

Tim got away with some pretty outrageous bear hugs in the ruck.

Nine minutes and twelve to go in the third on the wing a very good example of one.

[jeemak]

Seven minutes to go.......and the BOMBERS NEED TO RESPOND......and they don't.

[jeemak]

For the Cody push over the boundary all I can think was it was essentially a downfield free kick but because the down field was further away from the goals it was paid where the infringement happened.

Interesting, because down field is usually after a kick, but technically I've seen them paid after a handball as well. With that in mind the free kick albeit technical, is there.

I'm shocked the commentariat hasn't figured this out yet......it's like they're not even looking for it as a possibility.

[jeemak]

No issue with the Merrett square up, didn't get Young high. But, Chris Johnson calling jumper punching part of footy is next level I'm going to go down to yell at my son at Essendon training type stuff.

[jeemak]

Last quarter....YES!

[jeemak]

Hannan's kick to Naughton was a thing of beauty, pity it wasn't taken.

[jeemak]

Duhrum not going for the waist on the boundary fifty out was also a thing of beauty, and complaining about it was pretty much a show of how cooked they were.

[jeemak]

The Schache kick to the square was brilliant. I had folks complaining about it, but each of the goal faces is seven metres, he was two out at least, it travelled away from goal and covered two faces. Seventeen metres.

[Twodogs]

Are you watching the FOX commentary/replay Jee?

[jeemak]

Watch Devon Smith when his names sake kicks the last goal of the day. Faaaark.

[jeemak]

Are you watching the FOX commentary/replay Jee?

It's all Seven, just pre and post game is Fox........I think. Probably due to COVID or my ignorance.

[Twodogs]

It's all Seven, just pre and post game is Fox........I think. Probably due to COVID or my ignorance.

OK. I try not to pay much attention to the commentary but I'm surprised to realise that I paid so little attention that I didn't remember who had commentated the game. I remember Luke Hodge making a couple of Bozo observations from the boundary line but that's it. Didn't know that JB or Chris Johnson were involved. I might watch it again myself tomorrow.

[jeemak]

OK. I try not to pay much attention to the commentary but I'm surprised to realise that I paid so little attention that I didn't remember who had commentated the game. I remember Luke Hodge making a couple of Bozo observations from the boundary line but that's it. Didn't know that JB or Chris Johnson were involved. I might watch it again myself tomorrow.

Easy Chewie.

[dog town]

How did Stringer only have 8 touches up until the final siren despite attending 16 centre bounces? Wood obviously blanketed him when forward but you should accidentally get it more than that.

[GVGjr]

How did Stringer only have 8 touches up until the final siren despite attending 16 centre bounces? Wood obviously blanketed him when forward but you should accidentally get it more than that.

Was it Wood or Williams guarding Stringer forward or a combination of both?

[AshMac]

OK. I try not to pay much attention to the commentary but I'm surprised to realise that I paid so little attention that I didn't remember who had commentated the game. I remember Luke Hodge making a couple of Bozo observations from the boundary line but that's it. Didn't know that JB or Chris Johnson were involved. I might watch it again myself tomorrow.

Whatever you do, don’t rewatch the game to experience Bayshaws commentary.

I’d recommend pouring citric acid into your eyes or stubbing your toe badly on the kitchen counter as more enjoyable alternatives

[AshMac]

How did Stringer only have 8 touches up until the final siren despite attending 16 centre bounces? Wood obviously blanketed him when forward but you should accidentally get it more than that.

This is the great mystery considering he was spoken about all game as the X factor that could break us open

[comrade]

This is the great mystery considering he was spoken about all game as the X factor that could break us open

You had to love the sour look on his face throughout the last quarter and after the siren. Made the win even more enjoyable.

[Grantysghost]

This is the great mystery considering he was spoken about all game as the X factor that could break us open

He looked absolutely spent at the end. Like his entire season's efforts had caught up with him.

His finals record hasn't been great, but he certainly had his best season since 2016.

Still not bothered too much we jettisoned him. Next year will be his 5th at the Bombers which matches what he had us.

[Bulldog Joe]

He looked absolutely spent at the end. Like his entire season's efforts had caught up with him.

His finals record hasn't been great, but he certainly had his best season since 2016.

Still not bothered too much we jettisoned him. Next year will be his 5th at the Bombers which matches what he had us.

They kept referring to him as a big game player.

By my reckoning he has now played 6 finals and, despite watching every game (some multiple times), I can't recall him being a major contributor in any of them.

[Grantysghost]

They kept referring to him as a big game player.

By my reckoning he has now played 6 finals and, despite watching every game (some multiple times), I can't recall him being a major contributor in any of them.

Probably that second half v the Hawks in the semi from memory mightve been his best?
What a memorable night that was.

@jeemak are you taking requests for your replay live posting? I'll go the 16 semi.

[dog town]

In Stringers defence his work rate appeared decent given his tackle and pressure act numbers. We just didn’t give him any easy ball.

[Rocco Jones]

In Stringers defence his work rate appeared decent given his tackle and pressure act numbers. We just didn’t give him any easy ball.

I love giving Stinger smack, but I agree.

[1eyedog]

He looked absolutely spent at the end. Like his entire season's efforts had caught up with him.

His finals record hasn't been great, but he certainly had his best season since 2016.

Still not bothered too much we jettisoned him. Next year will be his 5th at the Bombers which matches what he had us.

Also Schache came to us with those two second rounders, is 24 years of age and looks like he is just starting to hit his straps. If you're talking the benefit of trades in hindsight you must look at performances when it counts in finals and Schache has him covered.

Man I hope Schache goes on with it from here. That pack mark he took where he just read it better than everyone else was very exciting.

[bornadog]

Also Schache came to us with those two second rounders, is 24 years of age and looks like he is just starting to hit his straps. If you're talking the benefit of trades in hindsight you must look at performances when it counts in finals and Schache has him covered.

Man I hope Schache goes on with it from here. That pack mark he took where he just read it better than everyone else was very exciting.

We also took Ed with one of the pics

[bulldogtragic]

Yes and no.

Jake for Picks 25 & 30 (Second Rounders)

Dogs Holding Picks 25, 28 & 30

Carlton get Picks 28, 30 Future 2nd - Dogs get First Rounder 16 (Richards) & 40

Schache Picks 25 (2nd Rounder) & 40 (3rd Rounder)

End: Naughton, Richards, Porter, Schache (Trengove FA), Rookied Roarke plus Gowers.


Jake’s two picks, one pick went towards Schache and another towards Richards via Carlton.

[bornadog]

Yes and no.

Jake for Picks 25 & 30 (Second Rounders)

Dogs Holding Picks 25, 28 & 30

Carlton get Picks 28, 30 Future 2nd - Dogs get First Rounder 16 (Richards) & 40

Schache Picks 25 (2nd Rounder) & 40 (3rd Rounder)

End: Naughton, Richards, Porter, Schache (Trengove FA), Rookied Roarke plus Gowers.


Jake’s two picks, one pick went towards Schache and another towards Richards via Carlton.

End result pretty good.

[bulldogtragic]

End result pretty good.

Naughton, Schache & Roarke played in a winning final a few days ago. I imagine Richards would’ve too but got the shoulder injury. Naughton & Schache kicked 5 goals straight between them and GAs for the sealer from Schache to VDM and Naughton to Hannan. While Roarke had some crucial moments. Plus longer term if Naughton can get better kicking at goal and Schache an intercepting taller defender while Richards gets better and Roarke remains solid. That’s a pretty decent trade and draft period.

[Twodogs]

Whatever you do, don’t rewatch the game to experience Bayshaws commentary.

I’d recommend pouring citric acid into your eyes or stubbing your toe badly on the kitchen counter as more enjoyable alternatives

Versatile stuff citric acid. You can put it in hard toffee to give it a fizz or mix it with icing sugar and baking soda to make sherbet. I quite like it but I won't be pouring it into my eyes any time sooner than I'll be going out of my way to pay any attention to what James Brayshaw has to say. Or most North supporters for that matter.

[comrade]

Didn't realise until watching the replay that Hannan actually attended the last centre bounce and got the clearance.

[SquirrelGrip]

Was it Wood or Williams guarding Stringer forward or a combination of both?

From my observation, he was hanging out the back a lot and never chased, so I'm not sure anyone even bothered to guard him.

[bornadog]

Didn't realise until watching the replay that Hannan actually attended the last centre bounce and got the clearance.

We had a few on the bench for the last 5 min like Bont.

[MrMahatma]

We had a few on the bench for the last 5 min like Bont.

Yep. Had to be done. Cotton wool. Hopefully we get the chance to do that again this week.

[Hotdog60]

There may be nothing in it and me being old fashioned but I like it when I saw the players run out at the start of the game there was no smiles and giggling unlike the last three weeks and to me I see that as focused on the job at hand.

[The bulldog tragician]

There may be nothing in it and me being old fashioned but I like it when I saw the players run out at the start of the game there was no smiles and giggling unlike the last three weeks and to me I see that as focused on the job at hand.

They looked tense, even grim, clearly very aware of how much was on the line.

[DOG GOD]

There may be nothing in it and me being old fashioned but I like it when I saw the players run out at the start of the game there was no smiles and giggling unlike the last three weeks and to me I see that as focused on the job at hand.

Hallelujah Hotdog…I’ve been saying this for awhile, and got shut down. Good to see another poster seeing this as well.

[jeemak]

Interesting that we seemed grim and came out and played poorly for fair chunks of the first and second quarters. Perhaps they were told to lighten up at half time.

[Axe Man]

Max Gawn looked like he was running out for a casual kick and giggle against the lions and Melbourne played very well. I don’t think there is necessarily a right or wrong way to hold yourself. Everyone is different.

[Twodogs]

From my observation, he was hanging out the back a lot and never chased, so I'm not sure anyone even bothered to guard him.

That's the best avatar ever.

[Go_Dogs]

Interesting that we seemed grim and came out and played poorly for fair chunks of the first and second quarters. Perhaps they were told to lighten up at half time.

Wondered if anyone else thought that. Was a stark contrast to the Essendon rooms pre game.

[1eyedog]

We had a few on the bench for the last 5 min like Bont.

Bont, Macrae, Weightman and Naughton. The cream.