And to be honest, we expect to lose away to Perth. Longest trip + top team. If we get anything out of it, it is a bonuis.
I don't think Rudan would let that mindset sink in, that would be setting a very dangerous precedent, as even despite our recent form, I don't think we've been favourites in many matches to pick up anything.
Think of it more as a bit of team/man management, which is relatively smart - we've done a lot of travelling (6 games since January 5th). I suspect however that it's more a case of not having both Durante and Taylor missing due to suspensions (Taylor on 4 yellows). Could also possibly look at it and say 'Durante, you're 36, you've played 3 tough matches in 6 days, have a week off'. Either way, time for a couple of younger players who haven't had much of a look in this season - Fox & Lowry to step into the fold, although I reckon Kopa will take Durante's spot in the starting XI next week.