Take a Breath & Debrief - Round 10

[Palmybulldogs]

To quote BT “boy oh boy wowwee” that was some performance. Once again I need to preempt that I was unable to watch the game live, same will be said for this Thursday which I am DEVASTATED about but alas, sometimes life gets in the way, should be back to normal programming thereafter.




The Bulldogs just dominated that game from start to finish. I think what I’m most proud of this season is unlike previous years, we don’t rely on a dominant Bont performance to win games anymore, he’s still be fantastic and top 5 or so players every game but he hasn’t needed to put his cape on to get us over the line. We finally have a team full of players who don’t have ego’s and are willing to put the team first and it’s absolutely showing with our results this year.




Despite some massive challenges early in the year with injury and fixture, the Dogs haven’t let it effect them and with a possible 7-4 (even 6-5 is good considering the initial expectations) record going into the bye. This season is ours for the taking.




Again not watching the game it’s hard to point out specific moments (I will rewatch but may not be for a while) but I just want to shout out two specific players which may or may not be obvious shoutouts.




Rhylee West. This man is absolutely the barometer for this team, he has accepted the fact that he can’t quite crack it in the midfield and has gone all in on being the best forward he can be and I would argue he is one of, if not the most important player in our side. 4 goals is a great reward for effort




Bailey Dale. I mean how could I not mention him, 49 disposals is insane, I believe this is actually an AFL record for a defender and obviously the new clubhouse leader as well. The man just does not stop running, probably an off night in terms of efficiency but with over a kilometre metres gained he was still so crucial in the territory battle and setting up scores




Final thoughts are that this game was probably perfect after a crazy travel schedule, they took the foot off the gas from probably halfway through the 3rd quarter which they’ve earned the right to do, however they can’t be complacent against the Cats. I’m hoping with all the Bailey Smith drama, it won’t take much for them to get up and about for that clash. That game is one that I would absolutely LOVE to get the chocolates in and if, as suspected, they are without Dangerfield there is no excuses not to get the W and keep the season rolling. Carn the Scray!

[Stevo]

How and why do opposition teams not put on a full tag with Dale? It has to be coming

[ledge]

How and why do opposition teams not put on a full tag with Dale? It has to be coming

Because he is a backman and it means you lose a forward goal kicking option if you did . Even if you tagged and stopped him you would be one short in the forward line and it’s a win for the club still .

[Scott2016]

How and why do opposition teams not put on a full tag with Dale? It has to be coming

He will be paid close attention to this week. We will have our hands full with their small forwards.

[Miti-Dog5]

Was at the game last night and was great viewing from beginning to end.

One thing I've noticed this year is a genuine structure and gameplan that is winning us games. Everytime we need the handball back or just a retreat 15-20 metre safe kick, one of our wingers or half backs is ready to receive it.
Also when we have the footy and want to go forward, we hit the short kicks to draw a defender and then a quick handball releases a runner, its great to watch unfold.

Could give a shout out to all 23 blokes but just off the top of my head, I'll give props to Sanders, confidence through the roof now and his handballs in close always set someone up in a better position, he runs hard as well.