WELCOME TO DEMONLAND - JAMES STRAUSS

[dee-luded 2,959]

Have had a closer look at this guy. Was a bit frustrated at first, for the simple reason that I'm a supporter and want to see spectacular goals, marks and tackles when I watch the videos of our newest recruits... but once I told the 13 year old in me to sit down and shut up for a second I've come to realise what all the hype is about.

He may not be dominant in the sense that the Judds, Hodges and Abletts of the world are through the midfield... but unlike so many other mids taken around this point, he doesn't appear to have a glaring weakness in his game. Many good players come through with searing pace, but a small body... or an amazingly accurate kick, but no marking ability... or they're incredibly strong physically but let you down time and time again with their kicking, making you cringe every time they get it and have time to set themselves.

This kid doesn't tear the match to shreds with scintillating runs, goals or telling contested marks.... but probably the most pleasing thing is that I can't see a fault to his game. He's not injury prone, he kicks sensationally both sides of the body, has a quick and accurate set of hands, wonderful vision in the clinches, a VERY good turn of pace, and good vision for setting things up and spotting a lead, which is very pleasing in one so young.

I won't say he'll slot straight in, because he's still young... but there's no reason why he can't start out a very good player, then turn into one who takes games on. Someone who gives you 20 touches more often than not, of which the majority are effective or to avantage is exactly what the club needs. It puts pressure on the opposition, freeing up our more damaging players to stretch their arms a bit. When we finally get our core of 10-15 blokes, of which 6 have to be stars, I think this guy will float in and out of the 6... depending only on how and where his coach plays him, how his injures pan out, and how the rest of the side is constructed.

He's only one piece of the puzzle, but for a pick 19 I'm not sure you can really expect much more. We could have taken a risk, but 9 times out of ten you take a sure thing... and I reckon this kid is as close to that as you'll ever find around pick 20.

Yes, & on thinking of what you've written, I'm starting to see that this kid will be one of the first of this years draftees to play, probably around Rnd 8, following giving other established players a chance to prove themselves. His size (weight) is allrerady their abouts + his kicking should see him playing this year (prior to Watts playing as a forward). I anticipate Watts playing possibly on the wing initially as he lacks strength.

[angryfijian 25]

maybe a modern Febey type?

[H_T 3,049]

maybe a modern Febey type?

Maybe, good observation.

[Swampfox 190]

It's great to hear that our players are welcoming the new draftees. Jack Watts said that he got a call from Robbo on his way to the draft on Saturday as well.

He'll be a brave boy to take on the number 9. Huge shoes to fill.

I dont think Brian Dixon would mind

[H_T 3,049]

I dont think Brian Dixon would mind

Who?