Dean Bailey on SEN

[titan_uranus 24,974]

I'm bored, so here's a semi-transcript of DB's interview on SEN this morning:

Asked about the positives: we came back, we hung in, we were a chance to win despite the conditions, good effort. After the game DB re-inforced that we are on a journey, this is another step, the players were upset/angry/disappointed but DB tried to prop them up by keeping it in perspective. We've come a long way since Round 1. Consistent performances North Melbourne aside.

Forcefully denied that he had any doubt about his spot as coach when the rumours/innuendo were flying about after the Hawthorn game. Didn't like that question I don't think. But said it was fair enough that the blowtorch was on us.

Dermott asked if Bailey had improved since Round 1 or if our opponents since then had been more suited to our gameplan. DB said we had no pressure in the Hawthorn game, couldn't get the ball back and didn't pressure them enough. From there it was an emphasis to having 22 players put in an effort. That's where the improvement has come from. Brereton asked the question again as DB avoided it. DB said it was for others to say, not for him.

Robinson said standards were obviously higher, then said when does the focus shift from the 'journey' to the 'now. DB said the two can't be separated, we're competing now and young clubs climbing the ladder get great experience from close games and big games like last night and the Collingwood game. Other than QBW those games are few and far between.

Said our start was slow, not good enough, put us behind the 8 ball straight away, so that needs improving.

Malthouse apparently likened Scully to Judd. Robinson asked DB what he thought of Scully. DB said it was 'very good'. Scully's been building from game to game. Along with Trengove and McKenzie (and someone added in Hughes), they will get better as a group. Said it was 'nice' for people to put Scully and Judd in the same sentence.

Asked about Hughes. Robinson liked the way he attacked the ball and his courage. DB agreed. Completely different journey to AFL compared to Scully. Great attitude, worked hard, got his opportunity. Should improve from here. Likened him to Petterd. Great hands, great leap which we didn't see.

Lloyd talked about our defence and midfield now showing good signs, but the forward line is struggling. Asked about Watts, if he'd be a power forward or a half forward lead up player. DB said his lateral movement and speed are good. As are his hands. He'll end up as a mobile target in the 50. You can call him a 'power forward' but it's more about the unit not the individual. No timeline for his return: he'll be selected when his form warrants it. DB disagreed that this is different to last year, where we played him in QBW. DB said he was picked for QBW because of his form. The form he was showing last year is the same as what he's shown so far this year. That's why he was picked last year and why he's not been picked this year.

Huddo mentioned the bit where DB swore in the interview with Leigh Matthews. Wasn't intentional. Realised this morning apparently. His kids reckon he's up for Tool of the Week. Sounds a bit ashamed despite the joking around.

Lloyd asked about Bennell. DB said Bennell's an 'interesting' player. Mentioned the mark and goal as being signs of his ability. He has 'real qualities' about him. Trains hard. Pleased to see him play well, handled the ball well in the wet.

[heartbeatstrue 57]

Thanks t_u. Great summary, appreciated.

[Guest Rojik of the Arctic]

Thanks t_u. Great summary, appreciated.

Ditto.

[demon85 17]

Thanks for the effort mate!

[Gorgoroth 12,924]

Yeah cheers for that mate.

much appreciated.

I listened to SEN in the car last night after the game and Micky Malthouse was glowing of our players, especially Scully.

Said every year some one get's compared to Judd and said no one will be Judd, there is only one Judd, then said but.... Scully shows nearly every attribute the same as Judd so he just might be.

Was a lot of love towards the Dee's after last nights game.