Player Rater

27th July 2011 Category: Statistical Analysis

Image: Slattery Media Group

Two weeks ago it looked like the Bulldogs were back on track. Since then they’ve lost two winnable games, lost hope of playing finals and got news that key forward Barry Hall won’t be with the club in 2012. 

The win over Carlton in round 16 was their best for the season, and one of the best team performances in 2011. When the Dogs are hot, they’re almost untouchable, but - like their pseudo star midfielders - they can swing dramatically cold too.

The Bulldogs inconsistency is a reflection of their inconsistent stars.

In 2011, 5 of the Bulldogs top 6 possession winning midfielders have averaged dramatically lower disposal numbers when the team loses. Teams typically have fewer possessions in losing games, so naturally the stats of some players are going to fall, but the drop normally wouldn't affect so many of a teams top ball winners. 

Notes:

• The Bulldogs next 3 highest ball winners, Robert Murphy, Ryan Hargrave and Tom Liberatore also average lower disposal numbers in losses.
• Daniel Giansiracusa is the only other player (apart from Boyd) in the top 10 possession winners at the club that averages equal or greater disposals in losses. 18.0 (wins) vs 18.1 (loses).
• Ben Hudson (+1.2) and Liam Picken (+3.4) have the best positive swings when comparing possessions in wins with possessions in losses.
• The Bulldogs are renowned as a skillful, technical team that thrives in possession of the ball, if their best players aren't getting their hands on the ball they struggle to compete.