I’ve stated many times that I don’t agree with Long getting another year. But looking at a different point of view…he’s been ok when he has played seniors. You could argue he has made the step up given he has brought his serviceable VFL form up into AFL level with the same level of performance…it’s not the worst scenario. At least he plays in a manner that is team oriented - he applies pressure, he tackles, he has some speed, he can hit a target and he does what the coaches ask, e.g. taking the game on (but sometimes too much).
In my opinion, it’s very realistic that Long will get some games with Colyer gone. Colyer is a better player for sure, but at least we’ll have a player who can pick up the ball cleanly and hit a target.
I remember my 4yo saying near the end, after a year of habitual defeats, “dad, are we going to win?” and I got to say “yes, yes, we are going to win” and know it was true. It was a top feeling.
Just watched the replay of the second Collingwood game this year. Except for two crucial mistakes (which cost us two goals) I thought Long surprisingly good.
I am sure the coaches worked with him to eliminate this weakness after the game and he will be a better player going forward.
I dont think we can be too critical of him when considering he has played four AFL games.
He was unjustly criticised for those mistakes. He was pinged for holding the ball but he had no options ahead and was trying to buy time for options to present themselves rather than kicking it directly to 3 pies players who’d set up a wall.
Well Jake has another year, so I hope he can make something of it. Fingers crossed he finally finds his feet, and we get another reliable senior player.