the trouble is, he's not a good size!

I went down to the NAB Cup match v Geelong [one of about 4 demon supporters!] largely in order to look at the recruits. I knew this bloke is said to be 201 cm.

Someone has pulled the wool over our eyes. He's no taller than White/Jamar, for whom the new ruck rule has been a killer.

In fact, that great day at Geelong Meesen didn't attempt to contest a single ball-up. Seemed to be playing on the wing! I agree, we've been dudded here--I heard he was the great white hope for our rucks.

Hey Donny,

Ever heard of the left margin?

Start there. Then write.

and in argument against his post people are always surprised by how I tall I am when I stand up straight because when I run I'm pretty low to the ground etc. Meesen might be one of those guys like Fletcher who hunch over at the shoulders so don't look as tall

At present our ruck stocks are very poor

drafting Warnock (freo) in the psd would be an obvious thing to do as the development of guys like Spencer and Co would take a few seasons

Completley agree with everything you have said in this topic Rhino.

Has shown nothing this year, shouldn't get a game. Give him a coulple in next years pre-season matches.

People have to realise that he has been injured alot at Adeliade.

Our Ruck future will be decided at trading/drafting time this year.

Personally im much more interested in the development of Spencer. Anyone have any info?

At the start of the season Bailey made it clear that he wanted 4 ruckman (White, P.Johnson, Jamar and Meeson) and another developing ruckman (Spencer) on the list.

Next year White will retire leaving us with 3 but if we recruit both Naita and Warnock we will have 5 so unless we trade Jamar there will be no room for Meeson. I think Meeson is praying that we finish ahead of the Eagles.

I seen Meesen in the NAB cup down at Geelong.

He looked quick and rather skilfull, I thought he would improve on a decent base start but it would seem we all think his useless.

Maybe some time in the Sandy Reserves to get his confidence up might work?

Had a chance to speak to Dean today, and John Meesen was raised. Dean said John was developing really well, and will be worth watching next year with another pre-season under his belt.

Not sure if that eases anyones minds, but thought you should know.

Thanks for the information.

We all need to be patient and have faith in John Meesen. I know 4-5 years is to long, but it does take ruckman alot mroe time to develop than other position players.

Where did you speak with Dean. Training?

He cost us a third round pick, give him time, if he doesn't work out we haven't lost much. People keep saying our ruck stocks are down besides Cox name me another ruckman that has consistant influence on a game. The giant from Freo wins every hit out but his team is getting smashed and he has little to no impact possesion wise. Rucks are over rated they don't win you games all you need are ones that compete well. I'm more than happy for our ruck combo to be Jamar/PJ they will both compete win some hit outs and PJ will be good around the ground, Jamar will just fill the defensive hole. Ifr Meesen can start to compete well and Spencer continue to develope I'm more than happy with our ruck stocks.

Thsi year was always going to be a difficuly one for Meesen, he's basically had no game time over the last two seasons so he's had to start all over again, made especially difficult for a ruckman who generally develop a little later anyway.

We shouldn't make conclusions of his ability until well into next season.