Eade, who coached the likes of Paul Kelly and Tony Lockett, and played alongside some of the game’s acknowledged greats, said he would put Johnson among that company.
Johnson’s ability “for his size” was what most impressed the coach. Eade pointed out that Johnson was not even as tall as he was, standing about 184 cm (Johnson is 182cm) yet regularly beat defenders who were much taller.
He also revealed that the Dogs had a pre-match plan, for when Matthew Scarlett picked up the Dog veteran, with Johnson playing up the ground to run the bigger Cat off his legs.
Eade recalled the practice match against the Eagles where Johnson was goalless at three-quarter time but then kicked several goals in the last term when his opponent was exhausted.
It’s a similar theory with the younger Lindsay Gilbee, who played tall today and was a star for the Dogs. Speaking about the team’s acknowledged lack of height – especially with Chris Grant and Brian Harris missing today – Eade told the press that sometimes height could be overrated. “You can have a smaller defender, like Lindsay, who can beat a taller opponent and then run off. It comes down to ability, rather than physical prowess,” he said.
Eade admitted that he thought the Bulldogs had won with plenty of character, losing Grant and Harris, the first choice key defenders, before the game and then having to withstand a late Geelong charge.
The good news was that the Dogs’ brace of returning players fared well. Robert Murphy received a cork to the hip that spasmed when he landed, causing a cramp, but he should be OK. Luke Darcy came through the match unscathed and Jason Akermanis was a bit tight in the hamstring.
Eadesaid he had spent the summer thinking the team’s improvement would come from the 20-25 year olds in the side and today underlined that belief. He praised the performances of Lindsay Gilbee, Jordan McMahon, Ryan Hargrave, Ryan Griffen, Adam Cooney, Daniel Cross (with 37 possessions) and Will Minson.
He also found time to praise champion Scott West, for playing a selfless, team-orientated role, as required.
