St George
How their year went
The Dragons had a slow start, losing their first two games before going on a superb run which only saw them lose one game in fifteen rounds. Had two solid hit-outs before the finals and looked to be in strong form easily defeating North Shore in the Qualifying Final only to lose their next two games to Manly-Warringah and Pennant Hills to bow out in the Preliminary Final.
What they need
It is a promising list that does not have too many holes in it. They would be keen to bolster their defence having conceded more than 100 points in both their key losses to Pennant Hills in the back half of the season.
Shining lights
It was an even contribution across their list this season. Nick Ryan and Blake Guthrie made the AFL Sydney Team of the Year, with Guthrie taking another step in his development and is a long-term leader of the club. Jordan West was strong in the ruck after a late start to the season.
Season defining moment
For a side that performed so well in the regular season, they took the foot off the pedal against North Shore after a dominant first quarter in their Qualifying Final clash. They lost their momentum and it showed as they were patchy from there in on against class opponents.
Players on the rise
It is hard to look past the Rising Star Nominees this year in Dean Gilbert and Jesse Mudge. Both added verve to the Dragons line-up and were more than serviceable. Alex Wynn will also be a key component of the Dragons’ side, especially down forward and eventually the midfield, in the years to come.
Grade
B-
Finals were a bare minimum for the Dragons this year after achieving the same feat last year. They did not enjoy the best finals campaign after being in a position to claim the minor premiership.
2014 prediction
Continuity will be key for the Dragons who have the list to dominate the AFL Sydney competition in the years to come. They must be aiming for a Grand Final berth in 2014 provided they stay fit and healthy.
Last Modified on 02/10/2013 13:59
