PRESEASON TRAINING: Friday 31st January 2025

[Demonland 73,326]

How good is Harvey Langford.

[adonski 12,738]

From as much as you can tell from very limited footage of each player, Lindsay's acceleration and movement stood out, and Jeffo looks to have an AFL rig now.

That last Kozzie play was unbelievable, it's like they're not allowed to touch him he just moves through traffic as he pleases

And unless my eyes deceive me, some Ed Langdon CBA's?

Edited Friday at 06:28 by adonski

[Longsufferingnomore 1,660]

57 minutes ago, GS_1905 said:

Clearly people are in need of some content. I wasnt there, but my best mate...lets call him MS CoPilot was and had this to say:

 

Melbourne Demons Training Report - 31st January 2025

Summary of Training Drills:

1. Ball Movement: The team focused on ball movement today, with an emphasis on handballs over kicking. Despite the best efforts, the foot skills still looked a bit ordinary. It seems like the players have mastered the art of handballing to each other, but when it comes to kicking, it's a different story. Let's just say, if kicking was a subject, the Demons might need a few more tutoring sessions.

2. Inside 50 Delivery: There was noticeable improvement in player movement inside the 50, but the skills and decision-making still left much to be desired. The players were moving better, but the delivery was still as scrappy as a toddler's first attempt at finger painting. The decision-making? Well, let's just say it was like watching someone try to solve a Rubik's cube blindfolded.

3. Fitness: On a brighter note, all players are breaking personal records in fitness. It seems like the team has been spending more time in the gym than on the field. If there was a competition for the most fit team, the Demons would be in the running for the gold medal. Now, if only they could translate that fitness into better ball skills...

Player Summaries:

• Trac: Showed great enthusiasm in the handball drills, but when it came to kicking, it was like watching a duck try to play soccer. Needs to work on foot skills.
• Oliver: Impressive fitness levels, breaking personal records left and right. However, decision-making inside the 50 still needs improvement. Maybe a few more strategy sessions are in order.
• Sparrow: Demonstrated better movement inside the 50, but the delivery was still scrappy. It's like they have the right idea but need to refine the execution.
• Langdon: Another fitness fanatic, breaking records and setting new benchmarks. If only their kicking was as good as their running, they'd be unstoppable.

Overall, the Melbourne Demons are showing promise, but there's still a lot of work to be done. With a bit more practice and a lot more kicking drills, they might just turn things around. Until then, we'll keep cheering them on and hoping for the best!

*Edit: At, the risk of being misconstrued, ill clarify that this post is totally fabricated. It is the result of of some lazy 'prompt engineering' using Microsoft's Generative AI tool, CoPilot.

Phew

[Whispering_Jack 31,033]

And in case anyone is wondering about Luke Kentfield, he’s back home in WA recovering from pneumonia.

Dees rookie sidelined by pneumonia, hospital stay

And Koltyn Tholstrop is out for 3 months 

Injury Update | Demons eye February footy

[Longsufferingnomore 1,660]

Loved Gawny's rundown of Jack and the pace of Pup.

How many more sleeps!

[Demongirl35 1,087]

My take from match sim vid.

Pup to play round 1. Forward pocket.
Kozzy will be missed badly.

Johnson and Langford too play round 1.

Lindsey maybe to play round 1.   

[demoncat 1,551]

28 minutes ago, Demonland said:

Actual vision from Today's match simulation.

 

Harvey 😱 he looks like a bonafide AFL midfielder already 

[BC_1718_DC 1,517]

The little snippet of Lindsay getting through traffic with the turn and evasion then hitting the target was great to see. 
 

What a bonus to get another duo of guns in with Langford/Lindsay. 

Edited Friday at 06:50 by BC_1718_DC

[DeeSpencer 26,115]

27 minutes ago, Demonland said:

Actual vision from Today's match simulation.

 

Yikes there’s some work needed if that’s any indication. Not a lot of flow or clean skills involved. 

The one big positive might be right at the end with the look May and Lever have reacting to McAdam’s spoil. 

[picket fence 17,865]

 

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE

Opening scene: A well-dressed man walks into Cranbourne Shopping Centre and finds a phone kiosk. He shuts the door and produces a USB Key which he plugs into the pay phone socket … It whirrs to life 

Voice: Good morning Mr Phelps, the man you are looking at is Timmy “Slim” Yong um. He is called “Slim” BUT it is an Oxymoron because he is as big as the international cricketer known as “Doubledek Abus.” He is as shifty as he is smart, he also has been known as the forerunner of the new “Zero Fade” hairstyle! In our day it would be called a basin cut! “Slim” has come to our attention as recent propaganda from his website has spoken about his love of Australian Rules Football, a game which is part of Australia’s culture. On his website he claims that, in spite of never playing a game in his life, to have joined his INTERNATIONAL club and picked up 65 possessions 50 of which were contested, leading score assist, hard ball gets, ground ball gets, contested marks and kicked 15 goals straight without a miss. Some are said to have travelled 100 meters, to the huge applause and awe of the giant crowd, made up of brothers, sisters, cousins, aunties, uncles a few Morlocks as well as Klingons!! His best friend’s Parrot and well … you get the picture!

Intelligence has suggested that a team in the AFL called the Demons has attracted Slim’s attention, so much so that his plan is to photograph as many of these Demons as he can and using computer technology trans modify his head and face onto as many Demons as he can, then creating a super team in his home world!!

Your I.M force will be augmented by several of these Demon Supporters who, have indicated that they will assist in bringing to justice this evil and dastardly doppelganger!

The plan is simple… associative operative “Ghostwriter” will be cooking her famous “Knackwurst” Sausages with double onion and wasabi relish “Slims Favourite” he will smell the aroma and proceed to the Snag Stand. As he does so Operative “Picket Fence” will have signs erected promoting his “Reptile Viewing” area adjacent. When he ventures over, a specially trained “Slithera” will appear and bite “Slim” on the ankle, His “Knackwurst” will fall harmlessly to the ground, the slithera will enjoy the left-over snag. Your other I.M force will appear in a special edition Delorean from a movie called “Back to the Future: (How do I dream up this Sheeeit??) and apply anti snake antivenene and whisk him of for interrogation and trial!

Your Mission then Jim, if you decide to accept it, is to stop Timmy “Slim” Yong em and restore world order and protect Melbourne Football Club Players from this dastardly character and theft of face identity. As usual if any of your I.M force are caught or injured the government will disavow any knowledge of your actions,, This tape will self-destruct in 5 seconds.. Good luck Jim!

Whhhhhoooosh

TRAINING REPORT SLITHERA CENTRAL!!

Greetings Demonlanders, beautiful Day at training and the boys were hard at it, here is my report.

No shows Luker Kentfield, also not sure I noticed Melky or Will Verrall??

On modified duties no contact   Sparrow, Mc Vee, Tracc, Chandler, Fullarton

Noticeable events (I’ll skip training Drills and get right into match sims)

A)   PLAYERS   Max was back to full Match Simulations and although a little rusty looked very fit and ready for action. In fact, the ruck duels between him and Tom Campbell were very intriguing!  Max got plenty of it and marked around the ground, but I was very impressed with Tom and he might well be looked at to support Max in Games. Sestan played down back and didn’t look all that comfortable. Aiden Johnson played forward and took one very strong mark and was involved in some passages of play but did little else. Shane McAdam might have kicked a goal but did little else that I saw. Harry Petty returned to the backline and looked very comfortable. Rick Lever also joined in match sims and as he always does finds himself the ball and linked in very well. Marty Hore plays taller than he looks and competes very well. Jacob  van Rooyen TOOK the mark of the day and converted truly and contested very well as he always does. Harry Sharp was lively and his movement up and down the ground was seamless. THE GENERAL Steven May did as he usually does and looks like having a great year.

B) MATCH SIMS PLAY STYLE

Another poster was correct in his impressions of skills. However, a few things stood out for me.

1 Because players know the game style well and are drilled extensively in defending the footy when you haven’t got it, they automatically revert to a ‘HUNT IN PACKS ‘Mentality. Today if you tried to finesse too much you got caught and tackled MERCILESSLY.

2 The corridor was not used as much as I have previously seen in match sims and so little sideways kicks featured prominently.

3 Skills were a little hit and miss on occasions but given the intensity of match play this replicated REAL match conditions which should hold us in great stead for the year.

4 Our boys look SUPER FIT, No one gasping for air and everyone showing pace run and carry.

C) DEDICATED PLAYER WATCH

1 WHO THE HELL WAS THE PLAYER WITH NO NUMBER AND WORE A WHITE ZINC CREAM ACROSS HIS NOSE??? Whoever he was he was fantastic … took several strong marks and kicked 2 goals 1 (missed a sitter) PLAYED like a souped up Fritta! but is right footed !!!

2 JACK BILLINGS was phenomenal today, was in everything, tackled hard disposed of the pill well and set up some goals and kicked a few himself I thought he was sensational.

3 THE DYNAMIC DUO….. CLARRY and JACK VINEY Clarry is almost back to his best looks super fit and really is in “Beast” Mode. DITTO J.V just does not know when and how to give in. Clarry’s disposal was occasionally off radar but generally very very sound.

4 BILL LAURIE, as Gomer Pyle would say SURRPRISE SURPRISE SUUUURPRISE, looks a lot more composed, got plenty of it and used it well.

5 ED LANGDON, Say no more the fluid running machine and glue that binds a lot of our fortunes together!

6 THE 3 AMIGOS (ACTUALLY MAKE THAT 4) ... KOSSY, RICKY, ROY GEORGE  AND AMW, Kozzy is a FREAK, his feet are quicker than Rudolph Nureyev and yes he occasionally tries to do too much but BOY can he play,. Ricky Mentha and  Roy have more tricks than a contortionist after being inspired by watching “The Road Runner” BEEP BEEP. AMW??? Boy do I love his run and carry out of the backline, Just exhilarating when it all comes together

7 JEFFO, hnmm well he kicked 2 goals 3 (the 3 were difficult shots with one hitting the post on the run. Look he just looks a natural player and yes, he laid some good tackles was instrumental in creating two goals and took a couple of strong contested grabs.

8 HARVEY LANGFORD  Boy HE  is a JET ... WILL PLAY ROUND 1 Superstar in the making just has awareness, space , toughness , run and SKILLS

Well, that’s about it, One thing else I noticed was three People who were watching inside the ground on deck chairs, they didn’t see me but I saw them as previously they were OUTSIDE the ground looking in. Hnmm one I have seen before with Ghostwriter, so would love to know HOW they got in as I still can’t get access into the ground which I HATE!

Finally, I would like to dedicate this training report to Australian of the Year Neale “The Reverend” Daniher and also to Hardtack. Hope you get better soon pal.

Cheers to all P.F

[whatwhat say what 23,165]

who is the person with the backwards hat moving thru as an inside mid - jai culley?

[binman 44,310]

1 hour ago, Demonland said:

This is what ChatGPT had to say about todays session.

On Friday, January 31, 2025, the Melbourne Football Club conducted a pre-season training session at Casey Fields, with a focus on match simulation and skill refinement. The session was well-attended by both players and coaching staff, all demonstrating a high level of commitment as the season's commencement approaches.

Training Activities:

• Match Simulation: The team engaged in extensive match simulation drills, emphasizing strategic plays and in-game decision-making. This allowed players to practice under game-like conditions, enhancing their readiness for the upcoming season.

• Skill Development: Players participated in drills aimed at improving ball handling, kicking accuracy, and defensive maneuvers. These exercises are crucial for maintaining and elevating the team's overall performance standards.

Player Updates:

• Max Gawn: The team captain, recovering from a fractured larynx sustained in December, continued his rehabilitation. He is currently in a non-contact training phase and is expected to rejoin full training in the coming weeks.

• Jake Lever: The defender, who underwent knee and shoulder surgeries in the off-season, has been focusing on running exercises and shoulder mobility. He is anticipated to return to full contact training by the end of January.

• Charlie Spargo: After being sidelined for most of 2024 due to an Achilles injury, Spargo has been reintegrating into skills training with the group. He is on track to participate fully in training sessions post-Christmas

Coaching Remarks:

The coaching staff expressed satisfaction with the players' efforts and progress during the session. They highlighted the importance of these pre-season activities in building team cohesion and fine-tuning strategies ahead of the competitive season.

Next Steps:

The team will continue its rigorous training schedule, with upcoming sessions focusing on tactical drills and physical conditioning. The coaching staff plans to monitor player workloads to ensure optimal performance and injury prevention as the season approaches.

Overall, the Melbourne Football Club's pre-season preparations are progressing well, with players demonstrating dedication and a strong work ethic in anticipation of a successful 2025 season.

This is what DeepSeek had to say about todays session:

Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back (Chinese: 西遊伏妖篇) is a 2017 Chinese fantasy adventure comedy film directed by Tsui Hark.

A sequel to Stephen Chow's 2013 film Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons, it was produced and co-written by both Tsui and Chow.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) would like to thank you for your query and agreeing to share all your data and confidential information on your smart phone and networked devices.  

[whatwhat say what 23,165]

6 minutes ago, binman said:

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) would like to thank you for your query and agreeing to share all your data and confidential information on your smart phone and networked devices.  

and all your information from everyone in your contact's list too

[Roost it far 9,018]

1 hour ago, Whispering_Jack said:

And in case anyone is wondering about Luke Kentfield, he’s back home in WA recovering from pneumonia.

Dees rookie sidelined by pneumonia, hospital stay

And Koltyn Tholstrop is out for 3 months 

Injury Update | Demons eye February footy

That’s bad news for the Kolt. He’s got time 

[adonski 12,738]

30 minutes ago, binman said:

This is what DeepSeek had to say about todays session:

Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back (Chinese: 西遊伏妖篇) is a 2017 Chinese fantasy adventure comedy film directed by Tsui Hark.

A sequel to Stephen Chow's 2013 film Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons, it was produced and co-written by both Tsui and Chow.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) would like to thank you for your query and agreeing to share all your data and confidential information on your smart phone and networked devices.  

Searched 'Demons, tank' on Deepseek and got no results!

Edited Friday at 08:18 by adonski

[Gator 17,683]

1 hour ago, DeeSpencer said:

Yikes there’s some work needed if that’s any indication. Not a lot of flow or clean skills involved.

Supporters seem to expect that match simulation will be the same quality as two AFL best 22 teams going head to head when in fact it's between some AFL calibre players and at least half the list who are depth, not quite good enough, or junior players learning what AFL footy is all about.

They're also judging 30 minutes to an hour, or so, of match sim condensed into 6 minutes of video.

It beggars belief the conclusions they're capable of drawing.

Btw, what teams aren't making mistakes at this time of year ?

Edited Friday at 08:37 by Gator

[dazzledavey36 55,508]

Dancing with your sister kind of stuff this time of the year. 

Every club will have footage where they'll show the good stuff and the not so good stuff.

Take it with a grain of salt, let's wait for the real stuff.

Ps. Langford looks bloody good though..... 🔫

Edited Friday at 08:45 by dazzledavey36

[demoncat 1,551]

54 minutes ago, whatwhat say what said:

who is the person with the backwards hat moving thru as an inside mid - jai culley?

Yeah that’s Culley

FWIW I was surprised that the Eagles cut him considering where they’re at in their list build 

Got a Rising Star nomination and looked like he was developing into a player before he got hit with an ACL

Wouldn’t be against trying to squeeze him onto the senior list depending on how things shake out this year 

[Bring-Back-Powell 15,118]

36 minutes ago, demoncat said:

Yeah that’s Culley

FWIW I was surprised that the Eagles cut him considering where they’re at in their list build 

Got a Rising Star nomination and looked like he was developing into a player before he got hit with an ACL

Wouldn’t be against trying to squeeze him onto the senior list depending on how things shake out this year 

Anyone that’s kicked 4 goals in an AFL game probably warrants some consideration.

[Tarax Club 4,074]

2 hours ago, picket fence said:

BILL LAURIE, as Gomer Pyle would say SURRPRISE SURPRISE SUUUURPRISE, looks a lot more composed and got plenty of it and used it. 

Sloppy disposal, get this guy in!!!  
 

 
THE 3 AMIGOS ( ACTUALLY MAKE THAT 4) …. KOSSY, RICKY, ROY GEORGE  AND AMW, Kozzy is a FREAK, his feet are quicker than Rudolph Nureyev and yes he occasionally tries to do too much but BOY can he play,. Ricky Mentha and  Roy have more tricks than a contortionist…

 
…being inspired by watching “The Road Runner” BEEP BEEP. AMW ?? Boy do l love his run and carry out of the backline, Just exhilarating when it all comes together

JEFFO, hnmm…

2 hours ago, picket fence said:

‘nuf said…

One thing else I noticed was three People who were watching inside the ground on deck chairs, they didn’t see me but I saw them as previously they were OUTSIDE the ground looking in. Hnmm one I have seen before with Ghostwriter, so would love to know HOW they got in as I still can’t get access into the ground which l HATE!

Cheers to all P.F

 

Edited Friday at 09:35 by Tarax Club
Hijack or homage?

[dazzledavey36 55,508]

1 hour ago, dazzledavey36 said:

Dancing with your sister kind of stuff this time of the year. 

Every club will have footage where they'll show the good stuff and the not so good stuff.

Take it with a grain of salt, let's wait for the real stuff.

Ps. Langford looks bloody good though..... 🔫

Meant to say Lindsay instead of Langford.. he's a gun too i suppose.

[The Jackson FIX 3,281]

Roo using poor old TMac as a step ladder again 🤣

[Robbie02 98]

So who was the player with no name? 
Edit : I meant no number but no name makes him sound way more interesting 🤣

Edited Friday at 11:05 by Robbie02

[DistrACTION Jackson 9,782]

2 minutes ago, Robbie02 said:

So who was the player with no name? 

I think Jai Culley

[FireInTheBennelly 4,101]

1 hour ago, dazzledavey36 said:

Meant to say Lindsay instead of Langford.. he's a gun too i suppose.

Crazy to think he's had so little training since his knee. Moves really nicely in traffic. Massive upside.