I felt more and more disconsolate as I watched the game yesterday (confession: I left at the 18 minute mark of the 4th qtr). Richmond weren't just harder and quicker at the ball; more skilful with kicks and hand ball; they didn't just look fitter and better organised tactically. They were also braver. The sort of bravery that comes from self-belief and confidence in teammates. I saw at least 2 goals resulting from the ball being punched on, into a team mates hands, instead of taking possession and therefore risking a tackle. That quickness of thought and certainty made the overlapping ball movement much too fast for Fremantle's defensive structure to react to. It was something to admire, and yet I put my head in hands with despair, because I know my team, so full of highly skilled players, arguably the best squad the Dockers have ever assembled, suffer with a game plan that stifles all of those wonderful natural skills and spontaneity. So sad to watch, sometimes.
* apologies full being long-winded and Morgan-like, but I had to get that off my chest...