So what happened?
Eade is confident the team on match day simply focused on their game plan rather than the off-field drama. The Bulldogs have been on a build up for the past few weeks, and after recovering from their game in the heat of Darwin, are back on track for a finals berth.
Whilst the win moves the Dogs forward into the top four, it also ends the chapter on Akermanis's football career at the club and possibly overall. The triple premiership player was sacked last week for persistent breaches of confidentiality and player non-confidence. Akermanis was noticeably agitated during media interviews last week as he reflected on the Bulldogs decision to end his contract. To be told clearly that you are not liked has a personal impact, and it showed on Aka. A wounded Akermanis has had to explain his sacking to his young children as well as the media packs eager to stoke the fire. One wonders what impact such a personal rejection will have, not only his football, but on him personally. To be told you are not trustworthy would be a bitter pill to swallow.
Trust in football is essential. Eade says the players are united and the whole experience has brought the team closer together. For Akermanis it also raises the question of who he trusts to share his concerns. Well-Being Australia Theologian also asks: Who do we trust in our life? Such a precious commodity must have a rock-solid foundation. The Bible points to the ultimate rock and foundation, Jesus. Jesus is completely trustworthy. What He said He completed. When He says He has come into the world to save us, then we can trust completely in His loving words and actions. Jesus life, sacrificial death and resurrection are proof of this love. And regardless of what others say, we can always trust in Jesus as our comforter.