I agree all 4 midfield newbies look a bit tired and perhaps aren't contributing as much as a midfielder could, CA , but we gotta be realistic where they are at in their journey.
They have all knocked up about 15 disposals a match, and yep, made some mistakes and maybe not have impacted scoreboards too much. But all in all, they've done some good things occasionally, are not injured after 5- 6 big games, and are gaining valuable experience.
I thought Brayshaw needed a spell about 2 weeks ago, but I now reckon we stick with him and let him work through things. Applies to the other 3 as well. Crowden and Cerra did some good things today - as did Brayshaw - but just went missing a lot. Thought Banfield probably played his worse one for us today, but geez, his previous 5 have been bloody good!
As long as they are physically handling it, then let's get them up to speed as quickly as we can. I don't think - excepting Hughes - there's too many alternatives to come in for them, that 'progresses' our team.
I'd rather us lose, knowing the future is potentially better, rather than losing using players we know aren't gonna be at the table when this group do start being ' top four competitors'.
When that is, depends upon the coach and his game plan, rather than the 4 newbies, I reckon...