I keep going back to 2013 GF, if nothing else just to satisfy my optimism. We got to the GF with Sandi missing over half the season, came back in RD. 15. AA Luke got injured in Rd 15, came back in the QF,Pav only played 12 games, was injured in Rd 3, came back in Rd 15, missed in Rds 17-19. Three of our star power players and yet we were able to cover their absence. In the GF, both teams had 22 scoring shots, the last qtr after B. Hill kicked a goal in the 12min mark of the last qtr, they're last goal for the game, the score was 77-46. From then on, Freo dominated with 2 goals and 4 behinds kicked. Its history now, but our season was marred by heavy injuries and had we kicked straighter, the talk of the town would be much different. IMO, defence is what win you games. Most of your scores are generated from the defensive half. And most defensive outfits are built around hardened, experienced players which we currently lack. That's my take.