POSTGAME: Rd 02 vs Hawthorn

[Neitas bump 155]

36 minutes ago, Jaded No More said:

His goal celebration was putrid given his side was getting destroyed. Smells like Ginnivin 2.0. 

We know there is only one wizard. There can't ever be another

[demon3165 2,711]

15 minutes ago, M_9 said:

Had a holiday house near me for some years. I fronted him at my local many years ago about his ‘grudge’. Definitely no love for the Dees.
BTW Crackers Keenan similarly no love for us.

Crackers doesn't like anyone..

[Adam The God 30,129]

Our ball movement is getting better and better. We are building. Howes, McVee and Windsor are taking the game on really well. Rivers has struggled and is not the same attacking player he was in the second half of last year. If he can rediscover that form and we get Bowey back there too, we become hugely explosive off half back.

Not only is our ground pressure and post clearance pressure excellent, we're definitely sitting our zone deeper and inviting the opposition to kick longer into our D50 or to try and kick around us with a quick switch before taking the angle kick back into the corridor. And it's that angle kick we deliberately place our quicker players like Koz near. We're then able to intercept or break up play and counter at speed.

Then with ball in hand anywhere near the defensive side of the centre square or on the wings, we'd push players very high, to high half forward, so there was space in behind.

Sicily's game of 13 marks (all unconstested) with 20 kicks sideways or backwards, was one of the most ineffectual games I can recall and yet despite having less possessions and nowhere near the influence on the game as Petracca (who had 11 score involvements), Silicy had an AFL Fantasy score of 116 to Trac's 109. AFL Fantasy is broken whatever the hell that is.

May and Lever injuries are a huge blow, but I think we'll know a lot more about us after 3 more games. But so pleasing to see us go at 75% DE for a second week in a row. We'll need to go at something close to that if we're to beat Port next week. That efficiency is leading to scores.

Edited March 23 by Binmans PA

[TeamPlayedFine39 8,492]

58 minutes ago, layzie said:

What did we think of JVR's game? Much more time in ruck, it's not ideal for a youngster but he competes hard and it does give him a chance to get into the game. Thoughts?

Thought he played well, without dominating.  
 

Good to see him getting a bit more involved in contests whilst rucking.  If he’s to continue to be used in the role, the next step in his development is to get more involved around the ground.  Pick up some link up positions and provide more of an option for hit-ups around the ground.  

A few more possessions around the ground will make him a more damaging player and not just a quick chop-out.  Even if they’re cheapies, it’s reward for his effort and good for the confidence.

[The Jackson FIX 3,076]

Apologies if it has been covered but that kid in the youth-sized AFL jersey running around being referred to as ‘the wizard’ after 2 below-average afl games makes me upset. 
 

respect the REAL Wizard y’all.

[loges 6,767]

20 minutes ago, Wizard of Koz said:

AI collective Demonland thoughts 1 hr after the game rd3 for all Those with dyslexia adhd or cant be [censored] reading

Melbourne Victorious, But Injuries Loom: A Deep Dive into Demonland Forums

The Melbourne Demons faithful have gathered on Demonland Forums, their virtual MCG, to dissect the recent thrashing of arch-rivals Hawthorn. A dominant win, it seems, can't fully mask the anxieties gnawing at the edges of their jubilation. Here, we delve into the thoughts, uncovering the emotions, opinions, and concerns swirling amongst the passionate Demon supporters.

A bittersweet victory: The resounding win undeniably brings elation. Fans like "Rodney (Balls) Grinter" express pure joy at witnessing Hawthorn's downfall, especially considering the historical dominance the Hawks once held. However, a contingent led by "dl4e" tempers the celebration. They acknowledge the victory but argue a victory against a lackluster opponent like Hawthorn shouldn't overshadow the real concern – injuries.

Injury woes: The shadows of May and Lever's injuries loom large. Speculation runs rampant, with some fearing an ACL tear for Lever. Relief washes over the forum as fans like "Jaded No More" dissect post-game interviews, hoping the injuries aren't as severe as initially feared. This concern highlights the crucial role these defenders play and the potential vulnerability their absence might expose.

Demonstrating Depth: Despite the defensive worries, faith in the team's depth remains strong. Names like Petty, Tom Tomlinson, and Jayden Hunt are tossed around as potential replacements, offering reassurance that the backline can hold firm. This resilience in the face of adversity speaks volumes about the team's overall strength.

Shining Stars: The win wasn't without its individual bright spots. Fritsch's impressive performance earns him praise, while Petracca and Gawn's consistent excellence is acknowledged. JVR, the new recruit, particularly impresses fans with his ability to battle in the ruck and contribute at ground level. These individual contributions paint a picture of a well-rounded team firing on all cylinders.

Taking Aim at the Hawks: Hawthorn's dismal performance, particularly their abysmal first quarter, becomes a target for the Demons' supporters. Sarcastic comments and jokes flow freely, with some fans, like "samcantstandya," even wishing for a prolonged period of struggle for the Hawks. This animosity towards the rivals adds a layer of spice to the overall celebratory mood.

Beyond the Win: While the core discussion revolves around the game, other topics surface throughout the thread. Umpiring decisions are questioned by some, adding a layer of frustration to the mix. A lighthearted debate erupts over the appropriateness of nicknames for young players, with "whatwhat say what" questioning the use of "Wizard" for a player with limited experience. Finally, the ever-present dislike for commentator Gerald Healy finds renewed expression, reminding everyone that even in victory, some grievances remain.

A United Front: Despite the range of opinions and concerns, a sense of unity emerges from the forum. Demons' fans stand together, celebrating the win, acknowledging challenges, and offering support to the team. The collective hope is that the injuries won't derail their momentum and that the team can continue its dominant run. The final sentiment, perhaps best captured by "Rodney (Balls) Grinter," is one of cautious optimism: success should be savored, but challenges lie ahead.

Jayden Hunt ?

[demon3165 2,711]

32 minutes ago, Dee Zephyr said:

Each to their own, but some are really hard to please on here. There was quite a bit to be satisfied about.

To many people post on the result not the process on how the won big difference. 

[Adam The God 30,129]

1 hour ago, layzie said:

One of the more complete games you'll see from Christian Petracca. 29 touches 7 clearances, a goal, 11 score involvements.

And that effort tracking back to spoil! The game was done and dusted be he wasn't!

This'll sound strange, but I think it's his best game in ages. He was 🔥

[leave it to deever 17,511]

Oliver unfairly targeted. Or at least should have got a few frees.

[Adam The God 30,129]

1 hour ago, leave it to deever said:

Petty moved better than expected and lucky he played.

I thought he looked deadset crook for most of the day. 

[Jaded No More 68,867]

Just now, Binmans PA said:

I thought he looked deadset crook for most of the day. 

Really? He looked pretty good to me. Shame he missed those two early shots on goal. 
He slotted nicely down back too. 

[Roger Mellie 3,985]

10 minutes ago, demon3165 said:

Crackers doesn't like anyone..

Crackers is crackers

[leave it to deever 17,511]

1 minute ago, Jaded No More said:

Really? He looked pretty good to me. Shame he missed those two early shots on goal. 
He slotted nicely down back too. 

And so much better for the run thank goodness.

 

[Ollie fan 3,370]

11 minutes ago, Binmans PA said:

Our ball movement is getting better and better. We are building. Howes, McVee and Windsor are taking the game on really well. Rivers has struggled and is not the same attacking player he was in the second half of last year. If he can rediscover that form and we get Bowey back there too, we become hugely explosive off half back.

Not only is our ground pressure and post clearance pressure excellent, we're definitely sitting our zone deeper and inviting the opposition to kick longer into our D50 or to try and kick around us with a quick switch before taking the angle kick back into the corridor. And it's that angle kick we deliberately place our quicker players like Koz near. We're then able to intercept or break up play and counter at speed.

Then with ball in hand anywhere near the defensive side of the centre square or on the wings, we'd push players very high, to high half forward, so there was space in behind.

Sicily's game of 13 marks (all unconstested) with 20 kicks sideways or backwards, was one of the most ineffectual games I can recall and yet despite having less possessions and nowhere near the influence on the game as Petracca (who had 11 score involvements), Silicy had an AFL Fantasy score of 116 to Trac's 109. AFL Fantasy is broken whatever the hell that is.

May and Lever injuries are a huge blow, but I think we'll know a lot more about us after 3 more games. But so pleasing to see us go at 75% DE for a second week in a row. We'll need to go at something close to that if we're to beat Port next week. That efficiency is leading to scores.

This post can't be right. After all, many on DLand know that our coach can't coach, our players are cooked, our culture and (therefore our collective will to win) is stuffed - sorry, BPA, you've got it all wrong.....

Edited March 23 by Ollie fan
Typo

[Graeme Yeats' Mullet 6,772]

49 minutes ago, BoBo said:

ANB had a ripper game. Our kicking overall looks to have improved!

He has reached a new level

A few years back many thought he was fringe. He barely played 2016 and missed a big chunk of 2020 (partly due to being a sacrificial lamb to AFL on sling tackle) and I think was then a year behind Tracc on development into their best

Now he's got 150 under the belt he's just continuing to improve, uses his work rate and now his disposal is elite 24 at 75% with 23 PA

Loving it ❤️ 💙 

Edited March 23 by Graeme Yeats' Mullet

[Graeme Yeats' Mullet 6,772]

4 minutes ago, Binmans PA said:

I thought he looked deadset crook for most of the day. 

Runs like a busted... 

Is that just his style, or is he really cooked? Does not look like a bloke enjoying being out there

That said, made a few good contests late... to my surprise 

[adonski 11,840]

Rivers is off the boil

Shame Petty missed his shots on goal, thought he was solid given his injury lay off, some cheapies down back when the game was dead will help his confidence 

Very good game from ANB

Great to see a great Langdon game again

[JJR 681]

Can't believe there's some on here still not happy with a 50 point win. Take your miserable selves to Maccas for a happy meal.

[adonski 11,840]

Just noticed, Ben Brown 96% time on ground, surely not!!!!!

[demon3165 2,711]

3 minutes ago, Graeme Yeats' Mullet said:

He has reached a new level

A few years back many thought he was fringe. He barely played 2016 and missed a big chunk of 2020 (partly due to being a sacrificial lamb to AFL on sling tackle) and I think was then a year behind Tracc on development into their best

Now he's got 150 under the belt he's just continuing to improve, uses his work rate and now his disposal is elite 24 at 75% with 23 PA

Loving it ❤️ 💙 

His disposal is not elite, it's God ordinary at times cannot fault his run and endeavour but his disposal by hand and foot under pressure is not elite.

[Roost it far 8,186]

7 minutes ago, Binmans PA said:

I thought he looked deadset crook for most of the day. 

Really?? First game in 9 months. Took a great pack mark, missed 2 relatively easy shots at goal and then moved down back without incident. What exactly were you expecting?

[leave it to deever 17,511]

57 minutes ago, deegirl said:

Serious question - can you run around with the nickname Wizard when you’ve played two senior games and kicked 1.7? A tad premature 😁

 

[binman 42,684]

1 hour ago, Gawndy the Great said:

Back in the top 4

 

[Antioch 232]

1 hour ago, deegirl said:

Healy’s problem is he’s the Ian Chappell of footy commentary

He was our captain then he left for the bigger money at Sydney just when we were getting into finals. Just when we needed him. 

[Adam The God 30,129]

10 minutes ago, Jaded No More said:

Really? He looked pretty good to me. Shame he missed those two early shots on goal. 
He slotted nicely down back too. 

He looked slightly more comfortably down back, but he could hardly move in front of us a number of times.