Ridley today showed no signs of the dreaded dinky sideways kick. He would typically run it for a bit then go for a long pass down the ground. Making good use of his kicking ability was good to see.
Baldwin was often spotted around the wing taking marks but often in contested situations he would deliberately tap the ball down with two hands to a crumbing player calling for it.
The synergy between Stringer and Tippa is something we can look forward to. Both of them are starting to look fit enough and together they make some great plays.
Redman is in good form and defended well at full back for red. Hayes is also good down back, he’s very composed and doesn’t panic kick even with several opponents bearing down. He’ll squeeeze Stewart out of the team soon.
But before those games in the first week of March, most clubs have arranged a more informal hitout to build their preparations ahead of round one. These games are expected to be held on February 23 or 24.
Essendon, under new coach Brad Scott, is set to head north to play Gold Coast on the Suns’ training ground, across from Metricon Stadium outside the club headquarters.
Hind was running laps. Minor quad, but kicking leg so just running for another couple of weeks at least to be sure before he is back with the main ground… Did 8km’s today and in good spirits. “better now than in 4 weeks time”