Don The Stat

Don The Stat First Thoughts | Essendon vs Richmond Practice Match | Rust, Roles & Ridley Concern

20 Feb 2026

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Essendon’s first practice match of 2026 is in the books and so are our First Thoughts. Normally exclusive to our Patreon subscribers, we’ve made this pre-season edition public so you can hear how we break down games immediately after the siren. In this episode: Negatives Another slow start. Jumped again early Forward defensive habits still inconsistent Ball use (improved as the game wore on) The concern around Jordan Ridley’s calf setback Positives Strong corridor defence even when under pressure Emerging roles: Duursma and Roberts look like real positional shifts Midfield contest work Sharp hands and ground ball wins from the next wave Darcy Parish looking fit and back to his best We take it with a grain of salt, it’s February, after all but there were clear themes worth noting. No Jack Kirby Medal votes for practice matches, but the structure, habits and system clues are already showing. If you enjoy this format, our First Thoughts episodes drop after every single game for Patreon members throughout the season. Stay Safe & Go Dons. 🔴⚫ Links: Don The Stat Website | The Official Home of Don The Stat Don The Stat Patreon Don The Stat on Facebook Don The Stat on Instagram Follow Us on X / Twitter Jono / Ian

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3ª PARTE | 17 DIC 2025 | EL PARTIDAZO DE COPE

01 Jan 1970

El Partidazo de COPE

13:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

01 Jan 1970

Fin de Semana

12:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

01 Jan 1970

Fin de Semana

10:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

01 Jan 1970

Fin de Semana

13:00H | 20 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

01 Jan 1970

Fin de Semana

12:00H | 20 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

01 Jan 1970

Fin de Semana

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Don The Stat

Don The Stat First Thoughts | Essendon vs Richmond Practice Match | Rust, Roles & Ridley Concern

This episode hasn't been transcribed yet

Other recent transcribed episodes

3ª PARTE | 17 DIC 2025 | EL PARTIDAZO DE COPE

13:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

12:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

10:00H | 21 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

13:00H | 20 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

12:00H | 20 DIC 2025 | Fin de Semana

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