By Guy Hand
February 7th 2010 @ 2:30am
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Barry Hall shows it all in Western Bulldogs debut
New recruit Barry Hall kicked two goals and kept his aggression controlled in an impressive debut for his new AFL club Western Bulldogs on Saturday.
Former Sydney firebrand Hall used the intra-club practice match to show exactly what he is capable of bringing to the club which threw him a career lifeline.
The 32-year-old booted two goals from set shots, took four marks and unleashed a huge, legal bump which ironed out defender Lindsay Gilbee in the perfect display of controlled aggression.
Hall’s every move was cheered by a crowd of more than 2,000 at the Bulldogs’ Whitten Oval headquarters, and coach Rodney Eade was pleased with his star signing’s contribution.
“I thought he moved pretty well, he had five shots at goal so that was a positive sign,” Eade said.
“Probably if he kicked straight he might have had four or five, but his attack on the ball was pleasing.
“I thought he presented himself very well.”
But Hall won’t play in the Bulldogs’ NAB Cup opener against Brisbane next weekend despite his performance – Eade keen to stick to previously-made plans to limit his over-30s’ playing time in the pre-season.
“We’ve made a conscious decision most of the senior players won’t play this week – (Brad) Johnson, (Jason) Akermanis, Hall won’t play,” Eade said.
“It’s a long season, we don’t want players playing too much this time of year.”
Along with Hall, midfielder Shaun Higgins and rookie-listed Brodie Moles were the other standouts in the intra-club match.
Another rookie list forward, Matthew Panos, also kicked two goals.
Eade said utility Moles, who joined the club from Geelong after being unable to break into the Cats’ senior side, was one player he was keen to monitor further in the NAB Cup after impressing on Saturday.
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(2)
james said | February 7th 2010 @ 10:48am | Report comment
How long before he blows his top though?
Redb said | February 8th 2010 @ 8:54am | Report comment
Hall could be very good for the Bullies. I like their chances this year. Having a big forward who can work with the smaller Brad Johnson could work very well, he will take the biggest defender of the opposition meaning Johnson will be freed up.
A fast exciting midfield with good foot skills combined with Aker’s accuracy putting it laces out to Hall on the lead. Big Tick.
Yep a flag is in the offing, but it’s a long season.
Redb