Every story is made up of the basic elements, the Who, What, When, Where and Why.
The outcome of a football game is no different, and here are some of the key factors that could dictate how the story unfolds in Fremantle’s clash with Carlton on Sunday.
Who – The New Breed
Nat Fyfe and Patrick Cripps will square off in the midfield on Sunday in a battle between the new breed of AFL midfielder. Both Fyfe (191cm, 91kg) and Cripps (193cm, 90kg) share physical and statistical similarities, and play a very similar style of game, that of the physical inside midfielder who use their length to great effect and rarely succumb to tackles.
So far in the 2016, both players are performing at a high level. Fyfe has averaged 25 disposals, five tackles and six clearances in the first four rounds while Cripps has averaged 22 disposals, seven tackles and eight clearances for Carlton.
The only discernible difference between the two is the contested marking which Fyfe leads 12 to 2.
Talking points: Rd 5 v Carlton
What – Defensive Rebounding
Freo will look to get the upper hand coming off halfback, and with both teams being statistical parallels in the defensive rebounds, the advantage could have an important impact on the game. Both Freo and Carlton have 148 defensive rebounds in 2016, and possess running defenders that are able to effectively run off taller opponents. Cam Sutcliffe and Garrick Ibbotson have 19 rebounds so far in 2016 while Kade Simpson and Sam Docherty lead Carlton with 21 each.
When – Second Quarter
Freo and Carlton have struggled in the second quarter so far in 2016, and both teams will be looking to see who can get the advantage coming out of the quarter time break. Freo have been outscored 16 goals to eight in the second quarter, while Carlton have had similar problems, conceding 15 goals while only scoring four of their own.
Spurr expects "fierce" Carlton
Where – Centre Square
Fyfe v Cripps may be the headline act, but what could dictate the result will be the work from all players at the centre bounce. Nullifying Cripps’ impact and forcing other Carlton midfielders to get their hands on the ball will be crucial, as the big midfielder has accounted for 29 per cent of the Blues’ clearances so far in 2016. To contrast, Fyfe leads Freo with 24 but only accounts for 18 per cent of clearances, this is in part due to strong contribution from Lachie Neale (22) and Stephen Hill (15).
Why – Momentum builders
Freo are looking to get their first win of the season against a Carlton side that is looking for the exact same. Both teams have come up against strong competition with their opponents combining for a 17-7 win-loss record so far in 2016. Freo will look to build some momentum as they head into a challenging three game stretch against Adelaide, GWS and Hawthorn. Carlton will look to springboard toward their next two matches against traditional rivals Essendon and Collingwood.
In addition the four points on the line, this Sunday is the Len Hall Tribute Game and will present an opportunity for players and fans alike to pay their respects to the Anzac’s who have served and continue to serve their country so gallantly.
