Jump to content


Recommended Posts

Posted

The only thing that has stopped me from ruling Craig out of the top job on a permanent basis is just what his involvement with Neeld was like. How much input did he have? How much did Neeld listen and take it on board? How much did Neeld value what Craig used to say to him? I recall a comment made by Neeld to an assistant, something like "you give me the stats, and leave the f***ing coaching to me" or similar (can't remember exactly what it was in regards).

I have heard a very similar (possibly the same) story here with a statsman copping an ear full from him. Neeld in his first year would go absolutely mental in the box and everyone was afraid to hand on the info to him or talk about the findings.

Apparently he had improved this year but the damage was done.

The players obviously got similar treatment and whilst I don't agree with that approach they are paid professionals and should be able to still give it there all.

The people doing the stats are volunteers however and don't deserve that.

  • Like 1

Posted

Neil

I have heard a very similar (possibly the same) story here with a statsman copping an ear full from him. Neeld in his first year would go absolutely mental in the box and everyone was afraid to hand on the info to him or talk about the findings.

Apparently he had improved this year but the damage was done.

The players obviously got similar treatment and whilst I don't agree with that approach they are paid professionals and should be able to still give it there all.

The people doing the stats are volunteers however and don't deserve that.

Neil Craig mentioned the pressure that Senior Coaches are under these days, Neeld is not alone if 'he was going mental' in the box, 'Clarkson versus the wall' comes to mind, these unnecessary digs at Neeld are becoming tiresome, not defending him in anyway, but [censored] happens, if you can't stand a tirade from the coach you are in the wrong job, stats man, assistant, player.......Neeld has now gone, can we move on please

Posted

Neil

Neil Craig mentioned the pressure that Senior Coaches are under these days, Neeld is not alone if 'he was going mental' in the box, 'Clarkson versus the wall' comes to mind, these unnecessary digs at Neeld are becoming tiresome, not defending him in anyway, but [censored] happens, if you can't stand a tirade from the coach you are in the wrong job, stats man, assistant, player.......Neeld has now gone, can we move on please

I can and have but don't expect it to end anytime soon Sat.

Posted

Some reason I like our chances Saturday just quietly.

I don't mean to be pessimistic, but who is going to kick our goals if Dawes doesn't play? Unless we play an utterly defensive game style and both sides only score 10 each.

Posted

Neil

Neil Craig mentioned the pressure that Senior Coaches are under these days, Neeld is not alone if 'he was going mental' in the box, 'Clarkson versus the wall' comes to mind, these unnecessary digs at Neeld are becoming tiresome, not defending him in anyway, but [censored] happens, if you can't stand a tirade from the coach you are in the wrong job, stats man, assistant, player.......Neeld has now gone, can we move on please

You have taken Deeko's post (which was a reply to mine) totally the wrong way, and again have made yourself look like a fool.

Read the entire "conversation" between Deeko and I, he had heard a similar comment about Neeld in the coaches box (neither of us were having a shot at Neeld). Our discussion was more about the relationship between Neeld and Craig, which Craig mentioned in his presser yesterday.

As you often recommend to others, if you don't like what someone posts, then simply don't read it. It would be even better if you didn't feel the need to comment on everything too.

Posted

I think Craig could be the answer and certainly rate him as an option for MFC above Williams and Eade.

Like all interim coaches the next 11 weeks will decide

Go Dees

Posted

I think Craig could be the answer and certainly rate him as an option for MFC above Williams and Eade.

Like all interim coaches the next 11 weeks will decide

Go Dees

I will not speculate on the future coach, but I can say that anyone associated with the last disaster would not be a wise choice - so rule out Craig, end of story.

Posted

One thing i liked about his presser was that the way he answerd about the coaching regarding who would want to go for it. Was pretty critical in saying if a another inexperienced coach was thinking of putting there hand up to think twice and pretty much forget about it. I think he even knows we MUST go for a experienced coach.


Posted

I feel as though we have a new coach and am quite excited for some reason.

I think it's because Craig is an experienced and relatively successful coach.

Im looking forward to the weekend. Its going to be interesting to see where he puts players?

Particulary Watts and Howe, watch for that !

Posted

I feel as though we have a new coach and am quite excited for some reason.

I think it's because Craig is an experienced and relatively successful coach.

mmm interesting , but he did say a while back that he would never coach again , many have said that , so wait and see I guess , hes got 11 weeks to get a woody I suppose , let see how it all goes eh

Posted

I feel as though we have a new coach and am quite excited for some reason.

I think it's because Craig is an experienced and relatively successful coach.

I agree with this comment, in fact 6 weeks ago I was urging that he replace Neeld.

Whilst this is a secondary consideration, it's not the worst move financially. Whilst we must pay out Mark and will have to increase Craig's salary, we do not have to appoint anyone else to fill the position which Craig held. The immediate cost of letting Mark Neeld go, will be quite modest.

Different matter if at the end of this year we let Craig go, as I understand he has a contract for next year.

One other positive note. I started watching the Dees in 1950. First game I saw was Stuart Spencer's first, hence my name on this site. We were ok in 1950, finishing 4th. But then a bunch of good players who'd played in the 48 flag, and some in the flags from 39-41 all left. Team was desecrated and in 1951 we were last, by the length of the straight. Near season end against Footscray on the G we were down something like 19.15 to 1.5 at 3 quarter time.

Norm Smith appointed for 1952, ok that year, worse in 53, but in 54 we started a run of 7 grandfinals

Posted (edited)

If Craig was to disagree with Neeld and try to influence the playing group with his own thoughts on game plan, structures and general strategy then he would've been completely undermining Neeld and his efforts as the Senior Coach.

He's a smart guy that was given a role to play in the FD and to the best of my knowledge was carrying that role out.

I'm sure he's got his own ideas about what the team is capable of and I feel confident that we as supporters will notice them as the remainder of the season plays out.

Ed: whether they result in a tangible improved performance level remains to be seen.

Edited by McQueen
  • Like 1
Posted

Craig came across as diplomatic, level-headed and honest in the presser.

I get the feeling he's looking forward to the new role.

Will be intriguing to see how the rest of the season unfolds.

  • Like 1
Posted (edited)

Neil Craig is a very underrated coach.Things went sour towards the end but overall his record with the Crows is very good.He was also the assistant coach when they won back to back flags in 1997 and 1998.I think Neil will try and get the players to enjoy their footy again and hopefully we'll pick up a few more wins starting against the Saints this weekend.

Edited by Irish Demon
  • Like 1

Posted

We need to look past Craig & fresh start .... players need am outsider to come in

All respect to Craig bit I say coaching is over for him as he stated a number of times!

We need someone with fire in the belly & a 5yr plan!

Posted

I don't mean to be pessimistic, but who is going to kick our goals if Dawes doesn't play? Unless we play an utterly defensive game style and both sides only score 10 each.

Do you mean 10 points or goals? As 10 goals would be a lot for us.
Posted (edited)

We need to look past Craig & fresh start .... players need am outsider to come in

All respect to Craig bit I say coaching is over for him as he stated a number of times!

We need someone with fire in the belly & a 5yr plan!

Oh we need a new voice for next season but Craig will have to do until the end of the season and i would be hopeful that he can leave us in a decent enough shape for the new coach when he arrives.

Edited by Irish Demon

Posted (edited)

We need to look past Craig & fresh start .... players need am outsider to come in

All respect to Craig bit I say coaching is over for him as he stated a number of times!

We need someone with fire in the belly & a 5yr plan!

That 5 year plan will go perfectly with our 3 year plan we are half way through.

Edited by PJ_12345
Posted

I don't mean to be pessimistic, but who is going to kick our goals if Dawes doesn't play? Unless we play an utterly defensive game style and both sides only score 10 each.

If Dawes doesn't play I reckon that leaves us with the options of throwing Howe forward or maybe even Tommy Mac who was drafted as a forward?

Back onto Craig though, I'm looking forward to see what he can get out of the players for the rest of the season and will have to come into consideration for the jon, but probably after Roos, Eade & Williams. And did anyone notice Robbo say on 360 last night that he shouldn't of taken the interim role? Well if Craig didn't then who on earth would Robbo suggest should have taken it???

Posted

I really like Neil Craig. I wish him every success.

Win every game Neil and give yourself a shot. Even if you are not the senior coach next year i hope you are still employed at the MFC going forward.

Posted

Craig was hired to mentor and counsel Neeld as well as be the link between the footy dept and the Board

Neeld has failed. Doesn't that mean Craig has failed as well??

Posted

Craig was hired to mentor and counsel Neeld as well as be the link between the footy dept and the Board

Neeld has failed. Doesn't that mean Craig has failed as well??

No why would it?

Craig did his job, he would have offered plenty advice and helped Neeld through the intense media spotlight

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

Guest
Unfortunately, your content contains terms that we do not allow. Please edit your content to remove the highlighted words below.
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
  • Demonland Forums  

  • Match Previews, Reports & Articles  

    TRAINING: Friday 22nd November 2024

    Demonland Trackwatchers were out in force on a scorching morning out at Gosch's Paddock for the final session before the whole squad reunites for the Preseason Training Camp. DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS It’s going to be a scorcher today but I’m in the shade at Gosch’s Paddock ready to bring you some observations from the final session before the Preseason Training Camp next week.  Salem, Fritsch & Campbell are already on the track. Still no number on Campbell’s

    Demonland
    Demonland |
    Training Reports 1

    UP IN LIGHTS by Whispering Jack

    Those who watched the 2024 Marsh AFL National Championships closely this year would not be particularly surprised that Melbourne selected Victoria Country pair Harvey Langford and Xavier Lindsay on the first night of the AFL National Draft. The two left-footed midfielders are as different as chalk and cheese but they had similar impacts in their Coates Talent League teams and in the National Championships in 2024. Their interstate side was edged out at the very end of the tournament for tea

    Demonland
    Demonland |
    Special Features

    TRAINING: Wednesday 20th November 2024

    It’s a beautiful cool morning down at Gosch’s Paddock and I’ve arrived early to bring you my observations from today’s session. DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS Reigning Keith Bluey Truscott champion Jack Viney is the first one out on the track.  Jack’s wearing the red version of the new training guernsey which is the only version available for sale at the Demon Shop. TRAINING: Viney, Clarry, Lever, TMac, Rivers, Petty, McVee, Bowey, JVR, Hore, Tom Campbell (in tr

    Demonland
    Demonland |
    Training Reports

    TRAINING: Monday 18th November 2024

    Demonland Trackwatchers ventured down to Gosch's Paddock for the final week of training for the 1st to 4th Years until they are joined by the rest of the senior squad for Preseason Training Camp in Mansfield next week. WAYNE RUSSELL'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS No Ollie, Chin, Riv today, but Rick & Spargs turned up and McDonald was there in casual attire. Seston, and Howes did a lot of boundary running, and Tom Campbell continued his work with individual trainer in non-MFC

    Demonland
    Demonland |
    Training Reports

    2024 Player Reviews: #11 Max Gawn

    Champion ruckman and brilliant leader, Max Gawn earned his seventh All-Australian team blazer and constantly held the team up on his shoulders in what was truly a difficult season for the Demons. Date of Birth: 30 December 1991 Height: 209cm Games MFC 2024: 21 Career Total: 224 Goals MFC 2024: 11 Career Total: 109 Brownlow Medal Votes: 13 Melbourne Football Club: 2nd Best & Fairest: 405 votes

    Demonland
    Demonland |
    Melbourne Demons 12

    2024 Player Reviews: #36 Kysaiah Pickett

    The Demons’ aggressive small forward who kicks goals and defends the Demons’ ball in the forward arc. When he’s on song, he’s unstoppable but he did blot his copybook with a three week suspension in the final round. Date of Birth: 2 June 2001 Height: 171cm Games MFC 2024: 21 Career Total: 106 Goals MFC 2024: 36 Career Total: 161 Brownlow Medal Votes: 3 Melbourne Football Club: 4th Best & Fairest: 369 votes

    Demonland
    Demonland |
    Melbourne Demons 5

    TRAINING: Friday 15th November 2024

    Demonland Trackwatchers took advantage of the beautiful sunshine to head down to Gosch's Paddock and witness the return of Clayton Oliver to club for his first session in the lead up to the 2025 season. DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS Clarry in the house!! Training: JVR, McVee, Windsor, Tholstrup, Woey, Brown, Petty, Adams, Chandler, Turner, Bowey, Seston, Kentfield, Laurie, Sparrow, Viney, Rivers, Jefferson, Hore, Howes, Verrall, AMW, Clarry Tom Campbell is here

    Demonland
    Demonland |
    Training Reports

    2024 Player Reviews: #7 Jack Viney

    The tough on baller won his second Keith 'Bluey' Truscott Trophy in a narrow battle with skipper Max Gawn and Alex Neal-Bullen and battled on manfully in the face of a number of injury niggles. Date of Birth: 13 April 1994 Height: 178cm Games MFC 2024: 23 Career Total: 219 Goals MFC 2024: 10 Career Total: 66 Brownlow Medal Votes: 8

    Demonland
    Demonland |
    Melbourne Demons 3

    TRAINING: Wednesday 13th November 2024

    A couple of Demonland Trackwatchers braved the rain and headed down to Gosch's paddock to bring you their observations from the second day of Preseason training for the 1st to 4th Year players. DITCHA'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS I attended some of the training today. Richo spoke to me and said not to believe what is in the media, as we will good this year. Jefferson and Kentfield looked big and strong.  Petty was doing all the training. Adams looked like he was in rehab.  KE

    Demonland
    Demonland |
    Training Reports
  • Tell a friend

    Love Demonland? Tell a friend!

×
×
  • Create New...