For teams that know they won’t be participating in September, it can sometimes be hard to generate that same level of motivation to compete once you see that finish line nearing.
But we definitely feel as though we’ve got something to prove.
2011 has been a really tough year for us, and we’re certain to finish in the bottom four.
It’s a bitter pill to swallow for a lot of the boys because we genuinely believe we can be a better team that our ladder position suggests.
If not for a few lapses of concentration during matches, we could have possibly snatched a couple of those narrow losses and be sitting in a far better position.
That’s why we’re determined to really see this season out as best we can.
Even though it’s only produced two wins, our last two months have been pretty good.
We stayed with Hawthorn (in Tasmania), Geelong (at the Gabba) and Fremantle (at Paterson’s Stadium) for three quarters before letting our guards down in the last, and then there was that heart-breaker against the Crows a couple of weeks ago.
Then last week we fought back after a disappointing third quarter to outscore reigning Premiers Collingwood in the final term at the MCG.
Losses are hard to take - regardless of whether they’re considered ‘honourable’ or not - but at least we’re showing some fight and being competitive.
In our final two games we play West Coast - who are gunning for a spot in the top four - and Sydney - who are trying to hold onto their place inside the top eight.
What a confidence boost it would be for our guys, as well as our members and supporters, heading into pre-season to knock one or both of these teams off!
One thing’s for sure, we’re not going to lie down and simply hand over four points. If either of these sides wants a win, they’re going to have to earn it.
