Nakkers did the business on his own against the world (with a little help from Griggs) in 2017 so he can compete with Grundy, if we come up against them. Soldo a big loss no doubt, and would have been nice for him to part of our next flag if we are so lucky as to do it again this year. He's been an absolute warrior, banged up and doing the job on his own especially when Nakkers was out. But our contested ball brigade is stepping up now with Shedda, Cotch, Bolts, Graham in fine form so we can win ball even if we lose the hit out.
And if we don't we pressure so the turn it over in the next phase anyway.
As I have said prior, you mustn't have noticed, not sure why the concern with Grundy? So you think they will come through WCE in Perth? Or then beat Cats or PA (away) too, who they just failed to beat in QLD? Very unlikely to see the Skunks again I hope (no fear just want McChin's team to fail again).
Try getting over Lions first. McInerney actually beat even Soldo despite our victory in prior match. He will probably dominate Nank at about 6cm taller and couple of kgs heavier. Shouldn't be under-rated any more for close watchers. Then add Martin in who is a very similar CB beast like Nank but probably a slightly better athlete and (arguably) player.
Who is going to measure up as relief ruck? Probably will have to take Balta out of our backline for periods.
Sure our contested ball brigade is stepping up now but lions is comparable to at laest very competitive. Don't bet on them kicking 8.17 or whatever they did in the previous final we defeated them. Teams' accuracy really fluctuates due to pressures etc.
The key thing is not even CCs so much, although these are crucial at the Gabba as with the higher, more reliable bounce, shorter oval, good mids can driive it in deep quickly and easily or even score, but stoppages where a quality tap-out to the opposition can either create goals or prevent them. Lions will have clear advantage herein with no Soldo.
Will expand more on why they are an improved and somewhat different team to last time we played them closer to the match. First it's a wait and see re Andrews and Lynch availability being definite. Won't take a win for granted, especially with no Ivan.
