Barrett was insistent that while the Bulldogs finished within the ladder’s bottom quartile, hope should be the sentiment around the Whitten Oval. “The back half of the year was really, really good for the Dogs.”
Former Bulldogs captain, Charles Sutton Medallist and AFL Players’ Association MVP Luke Darcy agreed. “They’re developing, they’re well-coached and there’s some talent coming through.”
Both analysts lauded the Bulldogs’ successful development of father-son picks Mitch Wallis, Tom Liberatore and Lachie Hunter. Darcy also identified Ayce Cordy as a “very talented player” who unluckily “hasn’t had an injury-free run yet.”
Will Minson, Dale Morris and Adam Cooney were also applauded by Barrett and Darcy for their exceptional seasons. Barrett especially complemented Morris’ recovery from long-term injury, stating that in the “late states of an outstanding football career he’s still a crucial member of what goes on.”
Asked to reflect on the Bulldogs’ season and their preparations for 2014, Barrett was enthusiastic. “I really like them. On what they’ve done in the back end of this year, they’re going up.”
