Defensive woes persist, reflecting Beveridge’s apparent disregard for this critical aspect of the game. Since their premiership triumph in 2016, the Bulldogs have consistently ranked poorly in the key defensive markers. This season, they rank 14th of 18 in defending the opposition’s ball movement out of their forward line.
In last Friday’s match against Essendon, the Bulldogs conceded a troubling 43 points from Essendon’s defensive half. The Bombers piled on 10 of the last 11 goals to secure a convincing 29-point victory.
The Western Bulldogs look dejected after a loss during the round five match against Essendon.Credit: AFL Photos
Since 2021, only West Coast, North Melbourne and Hawthorn have been worse at stopping the opposition’s momentum.
The attention on Beveridge’s unusual selection moves should not overshadow the fundamental issue that has persisted throughout his coaching tenure. It appears that Beveridge either undervalues the importance of defensive aspects in the game or lacks the ability to effectively coach and implement sound defensive strategies. This critical deficiency has been a consistent and concerning theme.
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Despite having the 2023 All-Australian ruckman Tim English, and two of the game’s best clearance players in Marcus Bontempelli and Tom Liberatore, Essendon’s young midfield outscored the Bulldogs by 16 points from stoppages.
It’s becoming increasingly clear that Beveridge’s coaching methods have fallen behind the league’s best. This was evident in the loss to Geelong in round four when Beveridge was again out-coached by Chris Scott. Scott has won seven of his past eight match-ups against Beveridge.
Beyond strategy and tactics, a growing concern surrounds Beveridge’s treatment of certain players within the club, including triple All-Australian Jack McCrae, All-Australian half-backs Bailey Dale and Caleb Daniel and impressive first-year player Ryley Sanders.
The damage to these players’ reputations raises concerns about player management and the coach’s capacity to maximise each player’s strengths.
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In Beveridge’s post-game media conference on Friday night, he spoke of the team needing to endure some pain to evolve. He clearly doubts the quality of the list. On Tuesday, Beveridge dismissed the idea of a rift with players as “total fiction” and described rebuilds as a myth.
Most clubs would wish for the amount of talent and top-end draft picks the Bulldogs have been fortunate to bring to their club.
As with Adam Kingsley at GWS and Craig McRae at Collingwood, a new coach with infectious energy, clear messaging, and a well-rounded, strategic game plan would have instant success with this squad. It is good enough to compete with the top-four sides.
If Beveridge falls, the vacancy will be the best coaching opportunity in a long time. GWS assistant coach and former Western Bulldogs player Brett Montgomery should fill it.
When Kingsley was asked on Monday whether his assistant and premiership teammate Montgomery was ready to be a senior coach, the answer was emphatic.
“Yeah he certainly is, he’s been terrific for our group. He’s coaching our backs and our defence and he’s had significant influence, not only on those guys but also on the building. Staff, players, he’s doing a great job for us and I think he’s certainly ready to be a senior coach in my eyes.” Kingsley said on SEN.
Brett Montgomery during his playing days.Credit: Peter Mathew
In direct contrast to the Bulldogs’ game plan, Montgomery has implemented a sophisticated defensive system that often bamboozles the opposition. It relies heavily on its high forwards guarding the corridor and forcing the opposition slow and wide. The team’s ability to score off turnover is elite.
Those at the Giants attest that Montgomery’s strongest attribute is his teaching ability. His approach involves and empowers players during meetings, keeping them highly engaged by allowing them to drive large parts of the discussion when assessing game footage. Montgomery deeply understands the game plan and creates unwavering confidence in its execution.
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On retirement as a player, Montgomery transitioned to coaching by joining Carlton as an assistant. He later became Beveridge’s trusted deputy at the Bulldogs from 2014 to 2016. However, Montgomery’s tenure ended under unusual circumstances just before the finals in 2016.
At the end of the 2018 season, Montgomery was offered an assistant coaching role at Port Adelaide. Across four seasons, he was in charge of various portfolios, including the back line, team defence and midfield.
Montgomery left Port Adelaide at the end of 2022 and was immediately hired by the Giants.
Port Adelaide were deeply impressed by Montgomery’s tactical acumen; however, his abrasive communication style strained some relationships within the club. Known for setting high standards and maintaining a strong belief in his game philosophy, Montgomery was not shy about pushing back against dissenting opinions during his tenure at the Power.
Having served nearly 20 years as an assistant coach, Montgomery’s aspirations of becoming a senior coach would have become increasingly apparent and difficult to conceal.
It is as clear as the Dogs’ need for change.
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