The build-up has been conspicuously subdued this time around against the Dogs, almost an eerie silence. It’s a tricky assignment to work out and we’re feeling a bit restrained but we’ll Restump Podcast it and see what comes up.

The name Rory Lobb has barely been whispered this week. Is it a case of once bitten, twice shy? Have we all made the error of being overly cautious? If we subscribe to the ‘offense is the best defence’ theory, then shouldn’t we have doubled down?

The reality is there is so much on the line on Saturday. We probably need 13 wins at a minimum, probably 14 given our inferior percentage, to make the finals. So if we need to win 6 or 7 of our remaining 9 games and then we see we have got Collingwood, Port Adelaide, Brisbane and Geelong at Kardinia Park to come…. we can’t afford to drop the ball Saturday. 

James Aish makes his much-welcomed return to add his solid and calming influence. Might he get the tap on the shoulder at some point in the game with the “Mr Aish, please make your way to Mr Bontempelli” request? Let’s hope he’s not required in that manner, but its handy to know the option is there.

The Dogs lost a couple of tall backs which plays into our favour as Jackson, Jye and Josh will look to exploit the advantage.

But it starts and probably ends in the middle. We can’t allow the ease of possession and movement we presented the Dogs in that earlier clash this season. If we do, it could well be curtains for the year.

We’re going in with some nervousness and a little bit of trepidation, but we’re looking forward to some retribution and loading the season up for the run home. 

It’s a tough game to work out because it is difficult to really know where the Dogs are at. But that doesn’t stop us foolishly having a go at it! Just a tick over 30 minutes is a more manageable bite size of nonsense this week. 

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