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 Essendon on Saturday.
Who – Freo’s young brigade
Fremantle will look for continued growth of their younger players who have impressed in recent weeks. Both Connor Blakely and Hayden Crozier had career-highs in disposals against St Kilda, and speedster Lachie Weller was able hit the scoreboard with two goals.
Sam Collins faced a tough challenge in his Freo debut last week and Saturday’s game against the Bombers should provide another good learning experience, with the defender likely to do battle with tall forward Joe Daniher at some stage.
Talking points: Rd 11 v Essendon
What – Dons’ disposal disparity
In a stat that might contradict their ladder position, Essendon currently sits 2nd in the AFL in disposals, averaging 396.3 per game and only behind the Western Bulldogs. The impact of the numbers can be somewhat misleading as many of their disposals are of a short to intermediate nature in the backline and midfield. This is evident by the fact that Essendon rank 1st in the AFL in marks but 18th in both contested marks and marks inside 50. For Freo, this shows the Bombers are capable of retaining possession so it will be crucial to prevent this ball use from being transitioned into attacking football.
When -11 minute mark
Freo will look to take advantage of an Essendon side that has often been on the back foot to start the quarter. The Bombers have conceded 147 total goals so far in 2016, 51 of which have come before the 11 minute mark of each quarter. In the early moments of the game, where teams are at their most prepared and physically fit, Essendon have managed to concede 34.7 per cet of their goals for the season. While Freo haven’t been overly fast starters so far this year, Saturday presents a good opportunity to get in a winning position early in the quarter.
Where –In the thick of it
Saturday’s game could well be dictated by who is first to the ball and able to win one-on-one contests in the midfield. The Bombers currently rank 18th in contested possessions and 17th in both clearances and centre square clearances This could be a point of strength for an injury affected Freo midfield that despite missing key contributors in 2016, has still managed to rank 13th or higher in those three categories. Lachie Neale could have a big game, the midfielder currently leads the AFL with 171 contested disposals so far in 2016.
Why – A matter of pride
Freo and Essendon won’t be playing for future draft picks on Saturday, as two teams will take the field to not only showcase their youth but come away with a hard fought four points. Both teams have dealt with their fair share of adversity in 2016 but have also displayed exciting young talent who will be eager to kick-start the second half of the season. Both senior coach Ross Lyon and midfielder Connor Blakely spoke of Freo’s unwavering commitment to winning football games during the week.
