Player Rater

9th August 2011 Category: Statistical Analysis

Image: Slattery Media Group

The division between "good" and "bad" clubs in 2011 has been highlighted this week with the form of league leaders, Collingwood and Geelong. The Cats have been ruthless over the past couple of weeks. Collingwood, too, have been impressive, but as the Pies prepare their team for the run into the finals, the form of veterans, Alan Didak and Nick Maxwell, is cause for concern.

Didak has been out of form all season, performing well below expectation and well below his own lofty standards. Truth be told if Alan Didak wasn’t Alan Didak he’d have surrendered his spot to one of Alex Fasolo, Dane Beams or Luke Rounds months ago. If Didak’s current form-line continues, Mick Malthouse will have a tough decision to make come finals time.

Maxwell’s statistical drop hasn’t been as dramatic, but his role in the team this season has diminished considerably – due in large part to the addition of Chris Tarrant and the development of Ben Reid. Maxwell’s role is now more about leadership than actual contribution.

Alan Didak 2009-2011:

Nick Maxwell 2009-2011: