95% above the shoulders

If ever a proof were needed for the old adage about football being played 95% above the shoulders, the Blues provided it last night.

Clearly stung by the criticism of their coach, Brett Ratten, the Blues bounded out of the blocks.

The Barcodes, like the Bombers a few weeks ago against the then-winless Demons, seemed to play like they could turn it on when required. But when they hit the go pedal, the Blues responded.

So, the out-of-form Blues gave the Barcodes a lesson in mental preparation, if not football. There simply are no easy games at AFL level and the team that assumes it can win on its own terms is destined to fall short.