BALL movement coach Mark Williams runs through the 22 players who played in Melbourne’s 64-point loss against Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium
Jamie Bennell: Jamie had an average game. He wasn’t involved enough in the play, and had minimal impact. He was subbed off late for Blease.
Sam Blease: It was great for Sam to play his first game. We were all very excited for him. He came on, won the ball well and used his pace to run and carry the ball. He easily adjusted to the tempo of the game, and this experience will help Sam understand the requirements of senior football.
James Frawley: James had a solid game. He was out positioned early by Hall, who kicked three goals, but worked his way back into the game. His second half was good. He won some good one on one contests against Hall, and provided good counter attack off half back through intercept marks and handball receives.
Col Garland: In his fiftieth game, Col’s direction and positioning was good. He competed well in the air having ten spoils but coughed the ball up a couple of times under pressure. Col has really involved himself in our counter attack off half back, which he must continue to do.
Brad Green: Brad was involved up the ground early where he won several contested balls. He tackled well but couldn’t find space to present on the lead, and had no impact on the scoreboard.
Jordan Gysberts: Jordie did some good things, and used the ball well on most occasions. He did turn the ball over a few times under pressure, and must continue to focus on his defensive positioning and toggling.
Jeremy Howe: Jeremy continues to learn and gain valuable experience from each game. His work rate was good, as was his ball use. He wasn’t involved in the game as much as in previous weeks, but still managed to kick two goals.
Mark Jamar: Russian had a nearly game. He wasn’t bad but he wasn’t as effective with his ruck work as we would have liked. With better body positioning and now, another game under his belt, I’m sure we’ll see him stamping his authority on the game next week.
Nathan Jones: Jonesy made a few basic mistakes that we haven’t seen in his game for several weeks now. He continues to lead the way with his spirit and voice. He won the ball well inside, and continues to provide great connection for the back line to use.
Liam Jurrah: Liam started well with three shots on goal, without getting a result. His movement around the forward line was good early, but his work rate dropped off as the game went on. We want to see Liam more defensively active when the opposition has the ball, and let himself go when we have the ball.
Stefan Martin: Stef was competitive in the ruck without having a lot of impact. He continues to involve himself around the ground, which is pleasing, but he didn’t use the ball as effectively as he has in the past few games. Defensively, Stef was solid.
Jordie McKenzie: Jordie’s in and under work was again outstanding . He had nine first possessions and nine clearances. He also used the ball well and involved himself in our counter attack by spreading hard to space. He negated Boyd’s effect at stoppage.
Brent Moloney: Beamer worked hard in and under and used the ball effectively away from stoppage. His defensive pressure was good, as was his voice and direction.
Cale Morton: Cale was pretty good defensively. He made a few errors when in possession, but overall was solid. We want to see Cale taking the game on more and getting more involved in our counter attack.
Daniel Nicholson: Nicho’s physicality was really good, and he had six spoils as a result. He won the ball well, but his disposal let him down. He must focus on kicking the ball more and advancing the ball by using his speed.
Ricky Petterd: Ricky had a very solid game. He hit the scoreboard, and his defensive game was solid. He was very strong in the air and took some terrific contested marks, including a contender for Mark of the Year. He finished with two goals, and continually looked dangerous.
Jared Rivers: Jared held up well under pressure. He contested well one on one, and took some strong marks. His tackling and spoiling , as always, were highlights.
Tom Scully: Tom was tagged by Picken and found it hard to get any space or rhythm in his game. Although closely checked, he still managed six scoring involvements and ten tackles.
James Strauss: James had a solid game. He won the ball very well one on one, and provided great rebound from half back. He continues to build his confidence, as he gains more experience.
Colin Sylvia: Col had a quiet game compared to his standards. He didn’t involve himself enough, wasn’t physical enough, and didn’t work hard enough to get involved. No doubt this disappointing performance will spark Col back into action.
Jack Trengove: Jack was our best player. His physicality was terrific, his work rate outstanding and his ability to read the game a real strength. He had a big impact at stoppage and spread well in general play. Jack had seven scoring involvements, as well as kicking a goal of his own.
Jack Watts: Jack continues his solid form. His physicality continues to build, and his impact with the ball is very important to our team. He took some strong marks under pressure, and kicked two important goals. Another step forward for Jack.