Tackling Giants after mid-season wake-up call

After starting the season five wins from five, our loss last weekend to the mid-table Western Bulldogs was seen as something of a shock.

The Bulldogs led by 15 points at one stage, but we fought back to lose by the bare minimum. It was one of those frustrating games where we tried to cover each other, but we ended up covering very little in the end.

I finished the game as half-back as we chased down the lead, but began as a winger and it's my preferred position.

Essentially it is the midfield role in Gaelic football. You have the freedom to attack, yet there is still the responsibility to defend and keep width for the team. It's like the best of both worlds and a lot of play goes through the wingers.

I have slotted into attacking and defensive roles this term, but predominantly I have played as a winger. In my Gaelic football, camogie and soccer days, I always operated in a forward position, so being in attack has always felt more at home for me, but I’m enjoying the responsibility of this role.

I’m getting used to the structures and plays that it entails

It also plays to my strengths. I’m not that strong aerially, so I’m never going to be a key forward and claim big marks.

I’m a better ground ball player, have that bit of versatility and being able to kick off both feet aids in what I can contribute from around the middle.

I'm still learning the ropes, but my experience in defence and attack really helps, and it's somewhat of a relief to play more carefree on the pitch. When you play Gaelic football for years, your brain can almost switch off in a way as it all comes naturally, so it’s nice to have that now to some degree in Aussie Rules.

Next up for us this weekend is a date with the GWS Giants, where Cora Staunton and Brid