Let the show begin
Obviously last season didn’t quite go the way Katie Brennan planned. Injury restricted her to just two games and she was forced to watch on as the Dogs posted just two wins for the season.
So now what you have is one of the most talented players in the land with a point to prove. She kicked 20 goals over the final three games to snatch the VFLW goal kicking title last season, and even in her brief appearances in the tri-colours in 2017, she still managed to lead all key forwards in Champion Data ratings points, disposals, marks, tackles, metres gained and score involvements per contest.
Dogs fans should be giddy at the prospect of a full fit KB patrolling the forward half this weekend and beyond. As for the rest of the competition… look out.
The carnival comes to town
It’s back! And with it the carnival like atmosphere that you all loved except this year we’ve cranked it right up.
Before a ball is bounced you can treat yourself to range of food options, from food trucks on the hill to Barkers Café. What about something for the kids? We’ve got you covered there. Here’s the full list of stuff – and it includes FREE ice cream. But it doesn’t stop there.
No kids, or leaving them at home? Good for you. Why not stop by the Two Birds Brewery Bar where you’ll find a tasty range of boutique beers on offer, and if you really want to do it in style, sign up for a spot in The Garden for a full VIP match experience.
So many options… you better clear the schedule.
Fire your guns
Not to bore everyone with stats, but though the Dogs won just the two games last year, there’s plenty of reason for hope, and the aforementioned Brennan is just one of the reasons. According to Champion Data the Dogs were ranked first for converting inside-50s into scores. Yes, first. But they didn’t win enough one on ones when the ball was in there and obviously accuracy was a problem.
Considering three losses were under 7 points, you can’t help but be encouraged by the prospect of plugging Brennan into the mix as well as number one pick Izzy Huntington.
Also, Paul Groves and his team loaded up on midfield talent over the offseason which may free up Ellie Blackburn floating forward as well, which could prove a nightmare match up for opposition defenders.
So if you can get to the game, maybe set yourself behind the goals and see if you can mark a few, Big Bash-style, because it says here that there should be a few extras coming through this year.
Exciting times
If you enjoyed last year’s games, you’re going to love it this year thanks to a couple of astute rule changes from the powers that be.
Last year we saw 16-a-side with six on the bench. That’s now five, which should result in the best players on the ground for longer, but the real impact should come from the last touch rule.
It’s simple, really. No more throw-ins. Like basketball, if the ball is out of bounds and you were the last to touch it, it’ll be a free kick to the opposition. So what we should be looking at is less stoppages, and hopefully more goals. All good things.
Is it Sunday yet?
