As frustrating as the result is, we played a very well drilled side whose last 2 games at this venue were a 26 point win against the reigning premier and a 39 point win against the Bulldogs. With our captains being well down on usual form, we lost by 3 goals.
Let's not forget we won our last 2 games against Geelong at Geelong and the undefeated Essendon*.
As I said before the game, I would have bought Kennedy in as an additional big midfielder and I think we erred by not doing so.
Levi has been exceptional for 12 months and the one night he was held, scragged and ineffectual, we needed one of the other tall forwards to fill the void and they failed to.
I don't understand the love for Harry on TC and in the coaches box. He's selfish, petulant and offers very little IMHO. We'd be far better suited bringing in TDK and letting him relieve ruck. That way Levi can work hard inside forward 50 instead of going back there to get a rest.
Cripps reminds me of the Wayne Carey V Glenn Jakovich duels. If someone wants to wrestle him and engage him in the physical stakes, he gets distracted and wants to assert his dominance instead of playing the bloody game.
The Geary tag on Doc was always going to happen. it's a good learning experience for him.
From memory I posted in the match thread that Cripps, Cuningham and Gibbons had 5 possessions each at half time. Not good enough but with so many of our players below par for the night, it gives me hope that to still in the game, we are on the improve. Make a statement and drop McKay, reward Kennedys excellent form in the 2's and hopefully the boys come out and turn it around next week and we'll be 3 wins from 4. Let's see if Teague has the courage to make the tough call.
I hate losing but I still have faith.