Demonland

It's time for some more of your input on the Melbourne v Port Adelaide game in Darwin. Who do you think will win and why? What are the game's talking points? Match ups? Importance of the game? Best entries will be included in our match preview (we reserve the right to edit). Cheers, Andy

On Twitter today from reporter Luke Holmesby:-

CASEY REDISCOVERS WINNING FORM by KC from Casey The Casey Scorpions returned to the winner's list after overrunning an undermanned but persistent Box Hill Hawks on a wet and windy Sunday afternoon at Casey Fields. The Scorpions scored the only two goals of the opening quarter through Matthew Bate whose poise and ball handling belied the slippery conditions and then maintained control of the game throughout the day. Spectators were bemused by the use of Box Hill's predominantly white "clash" strip which appeared to be closer to the Casey colours than their usual brown and gold home guernsey. This did not deter the Scorpions. Even when the weather eased for a brief while in the second quarter, Casey defended well and just shaded the visitors in scoring against the wind thanks to a Lynden Dunn goal. The Hillmen threatened with a desperate third quarter but were unable to put the score on the board and Casey responded with a great final quarter booting five goals in the rain to run out 43 point winners. The win, combined with results of other games put the Scorpions back in the race for a top four placing. Demon rookie Tom McNamara revelled in the conditions and had a fantastic game in the wet and the wind finishing with 31 disposals. Bate maintained his good touch throughout while young Luke Tapscott showed great strength and toughness in the heavy going. Both players claimed 22 possessions for the game. The individual bright spot of the match was the outstanding performance in ruck from Max Gawn who not only won the hit outs to give his team the advantage at the stoppages, but he also displayed great agility for a big man in the prevailing conditions. One of his highlights came when he marked unattended at centre half forward and delivered a perfect pass to Lucas Cook who goaled with his kick. The back line led by Tim Mohr and Matthew Warnock kept Box Hill scoreless in the opening term and was miserly all day. Michael Stockdale mopped up well in a defence that held firm under pressure, particularly when Box Hill threatened in the third term. Forwards rarely stand out in difficult, greasy conditions as they were on this appallingly wet Sunday but kudos must go to the hardworking Rian McGough who snagged two goals and to Brendon Fevola who adapted well and played a good support role for the forward in the team. He finished with only one goal from a great snap into the teeth of the wind but was instrumental in setting up a few others and ensuring the cohesion of the forward line on a day that was definitely made for defenders. The game also gave youngster Tom Corry the opportunity for his senior debut after impressing with the reserves. The Scorpions travel to meet VFL neighbour Frankston next Sunday and will be looking to build on the gains of their first win in the last month to further their prospects of advancing up the VFL ladder. HOW THE DEMONS FARED Casey was fortunate enough to be permitted to play the two MFC players involved as substitutes against the Bulldogs and this gave the Scorps 14 AFL listed players. Melon 22 sums up how each of them went in the tough conditions. Clint Bartram – did well in the midfield and when in the back line. Competed very well and managed to be reasonably efficient given the conditions. Matthew Bate - played very really well and was one of the few players on the day who was able to handle the conditions cleanly. Kicked the first two goals of the game and provided good effort for the whole four quarters. Jamie Bennell – even though the conditions didn’t suit his style of play he managed to really get involved and played with high intensity. He laid a lot of tackles and was good in the clinches. Sam Blease – struggled to get into the game in conditions that really didn't suit him. However, he did try to give some run and had a good third quarter. Lucas Cook – although conditions were not made for marking forwards and he was quiet on the day, he was always presenting and his work rate was high. Kicked a goal and was involved in one or two others. Troy Davis – always willing to put his body on the line and did well defensively without doing much offensively. However, the entire Casey backline would be happy with their performance in shutting down their forwards. Lynden Dunn – didn’t get a lot of the ball but made the most of his opportunities. The poor conditions suit intelligent footballers who know how to play to the conditions and Dunn did really well playing as a deep forward. Michael Evans - busy all day and one of the few players from either side to show a bit of dash and give some run. Was able to cap of his performance with a goal in a good performance. Max Gawn – dominant in the ruck and gave forward momentum to his team all day which was important in the conditions. Early on he was of the very few players who didn’t fumble and he seemed to be at ease in the conditions which was great for such a big man. A very pleasing display overall. Addam Maric – managed to show his class a few times with some amazing skill in the conditions. Tom McNamara – probably his best game for Casey. The conditions rewarded players who attacked the game and Tom threw himself at the contest at every opportunity. While some of his play wasn’t the prettiest it was super important for his team and he gave Casey forward momentum all day. Tom McDonald – competed hard and restricted his opponents while playing back on a day that wasn't made for the talls. Luke Tapscott - a typical Tapscott game; he was uncompromising at the contest while almost killing a couple of his opponents who tried to get in his way. A very good display overall and was rested for most of the last quarter. Matthew Warnock – a typical game from Matty, dominated the last line of defense for Casey and was instrumental in limiting Box Hill to just 3 goals. Casey Scorpions 2.2.14 3.4.22 5.7.37 10.10.70 Box Hill Hawks 0.0.0 1.1.7 2.6.18 3.9.27 Goals Casey Scorpions Bate McGough 2 Cook Dunn Evans Fevola Petropoulos Wall Box Hill Hawks Hoegel Monkhorst Pattison Best Casey Scorpions McNamara Gawn Bate Mohr Tapscott Fevola Box Hill Hawks Ladson Pattison Duryea Gibson Jackson Mirra The Casey Scorpions underlined their improvement when they shocked ladder leader Box Hill keeping them down to just one goal (scored in the final quarter) in wet and woolly conditions in the curtain raiser at Casey Fields. Casey has now beaten three of the competition's top four teams in its last three matches and will grab fourth spot if it beats lowly Frankston next week. Ruckman Robert Campbell dominated the rucks against his former team and pressed his claims for a return to the senior team. Youngster Aiden Lindsay and Evan Panozza also pressed their claims. HOW THE DEMONS FARED Three MFC rookie listed players took part in the game with Campbell the standout. Robert Campbell - far too strong for the Box Hill big men which is what you would expect from an AFL premiership ruckman - even one attempting to re-establish himself after a long run of injuries. Cameron Johnston - picked up 26 touches in a good performance. Kelvin Lawrence - found the going tough. Casey Scorpions 0.1.1 3.2.20 5.6.36 7.11. 53 Box Hill Hawks 0.2.2 0.5.5 0.5.5 1.7.13 Goals Casey Scorpions Purves Lindsay Bell Patti Lees Clay Campbell Box Hill Hawks Johns Best Casey Scorpions Campbell Lindsay Panozza Bell Lees Baumgartner Box Hill Hawks Murphy Kennedy Purcell Van Unen Johns Phelps

CASEY REDISCOVERS WINNING FORM by KC from Casey The Casey Scorpions returned to the winner's list after overrunning an undermanned but persistent Box Hill Hawks on a wet and windy Sunday afternoon at Casey Fields. The Scorpions scored the only two goals of the opening quarter through Matthew Bate whose poise and ball handling belied the slippery conditions and then maintained control of the game throughout the day. Spectators were bemused by the use of Box Hill's predominantly white "clash" strip which appeared to be closer to the Casey colours than their usual brown and gold home guernsey. This did not deter the Scorpions. Even when the weather eased for a brief while in the second quarter, Casey defended well and just shaded the visitors in scoring against the wind thanks to a Lynden Dunn goal. The Hillmen threatened with a desperate third quarter but were unable to put the score on the board and Casey responded with a great final quarter booting five goals in the rain to run out 43 point winners. The win, combined with results of other games put the Scorpions back in the race for a top four placing. Demon rookie Tom McNamara revelled in the conditions and had a fantastic game in the wet and the wind finishing with 31 disposals. Bate maintained his good touch throughout while young Luke Tapscott showed great strength and toughness in the heavy going. Both players claimed 22 possessions for the game. The individual bright spot of the match was the outstanding performance in ruck from Max Gawn who not only won the hit outs to give his team the advantage at the stoppages, but he also displayed great agility for a big man in the prevailing conditions. One of his highlights came when he marked unattended at centre half forward and delivered a perfect pass to Lucas Cook who goaled with his kick. The back line led by Tim Mohr and Matthew Warnock kept Box Hill scoreless in the opening term and was miserly all day. Michael Stockdale mopped up well in a defence that held firm under pressure, particularly when Box Hill threatened in the third term. Forwards rarely stand out in difficult, greasy conditions as they were on this appallingly wet Sunday but kudos must go to the hardworking Rian McGough who snagged two goals and to Brendon Fevola who adapted well and played a good support role for the forward in the team. He finished with only one goal from a great snap into the teeth of the wind but was instrumental in setting up a few others and ensuring the cohesion of the forward line on a day that was definitely made for defenders. The game also gave youngster Tom Corry the opportunity for his senior debut after impressing with the reserves. The Scorpions travel to meet VFL neighbour Frankston next Sunday and will be looking to build on the gains of their first win in the last month to further their prospects of advancing up the VFL ladder. HOW THE DEMONS FARED Casey was fortunate enough to be permitted to play the two MFC players involved as substitutes against the Bulldogs and this gave the Scorps 14 AFL listed players. Melon 22 sums up how each of them went in the tough conditions. Clint Bartram – did well in the midfield and when in the back line. Competed very well and managed to be reasonably efficient given the conditions. Matthew Bate - played very really well and was one of the few players on the day who was able to handle the conditions cleanly. Kicked the first two goals of the game and provided good effort for the whole four quarters. Jamie Bennell – even though the conditions didn’t suit his style of play he managed to really get involved and played with high intensity. He laid a lot of tackles and was good in the clinches. Sam Blease – struggled to get into the game in conditions that really didn't suit him. However, he did try to give some run and had a good third quarter. Lucas Cook – although conditions were not made for marking forwards and he was quiet on the day, he was always presenting and his work rate was high. Kicked a goal and was involved in one or two others. Troy Davis – always willing to put his body on the line and did well defensively without doing much offensively. However, the entire Casey backline would be happy with their performance in shutting down their forwards. Lynden Dunn – didn’t get a lot of the ball but made the most of his opportunities. The poor conditions suit intelligent footballers who know how to play to the conditions and Dunn did really well playing as a deep forward. Michael Evans - busy all day and one of the few players from either side to show a bit of dash and give some run. Was able to cap of his performance with a goal in a good performance. Max Gawn – dominant in the ruck and gave forward momentum to his team all day which was important in the conditions. Early on he was of the very few players who didn’t fumble and he seemed to be at ease in the conditions which was great for such a big man. A very pleasing display overall. Addam Maric – managed to show his class a few times with some amazing skill in the conditions. Tom McNamara – probably his best game for Casey. The conditions rewarded players who attacked the game and Tom threw himself at the contest at every opportunity. While some of his play wasn’t the prettiest it was super important for his team and he gave Casey forward momentum all day. Tom McDonald – competed hard and restricted his opponents while playing back on a day that wasn't made for the talls. Luke Tapscott - a typical Tapscott game; he was uncompromising at the contest while almost killing a couple of his opponents who tried to get in his way. A very good display overall and was rested for most of the last quarter. Matthew Warnock – a typical game from Matty, dominated the last line of defense for Casey and was instrumental in limiting Box Hill to just 3 goals. Casey Scorpions 2.2.14 3.4.22 5.7.37 10.10.70 Box Hill Hawks 0.0.0 1.1.7 2.6.18 3.9.27 Goals Casey Scorpions Bate McGough 2 Cook Dunn Evans Fevola Petropoulos Wall Box Hill Hawks Hoegel Monkhorst Pattison Best Casey Scorpions McNamara Gawn Bate Mohr Tapscott Fevola Box Hill Hawks Ladson Pattison Duryea Gibson Jackson Mirra The Casey Scorpions underlined their improvement when they shocked ladder leader Box Hill keeping them down to just one goal (scored in the final quarter) in wet and woolly conditions in the curtain raiser at Casey Fields. Casey has now beaten three of the competition's top four teams in its last three matches and will grab fourth spot if it beats lowly Frankston next week. Ruckman Robert Campbell dominated the rucks against his former team and pressed his claims for a return to the senior team. Youngster Aiden Lindsay and Evan Panozza also pressed their claims. HOW THE DEMONS FARED Three MFC rookie listed players took part in the game with Campbell the standout. Robert Campbell - far too strong for the Box Hill big men which is what you would expect from an AFL premiership ruckman - even one attempting to re-establish himself after a long run of injuries. Cameron Johnston - picked up 26 touches in a good performance. Kelvin Lawrence - found the going tough. Casey Scorpions 0.1.1 3.2.20 5.6.36 7.11. 53 Box Hill Hawks 0.2.2 0.5.5 0.5.5 1.7.13 Goals Casey Scorpions Purves Lindsay Bell Patti Lees Clay Campbell Box Hill Hawks Johns Best Casey Scorpions Campbell Lindsay Panozza Bell Lees Baumgartner Box Hill Hawks Murphy Kennedy Purcell Van Unen Johns Phelps

It does. However, please note that when memberships were issued this year, members should have received a Casey Scorpions membership ticket. You should take this with you to guarantee free admission although I've noticed that the people at the gate are very nice and helpful so bring your MFC ticket along if you don't have a Casey ticket.

THE DRAFT'S ILL WIND by Whispering Jack I risk being described as a bit of a naysayer about the coming AFL National Draft but everything I've seen, heard and read about it suggests that the draft pickings are slim and that apart from the new Greater Western Sydney Giants franchise, there will be no real beneficiaries when the clubs meet somewhere in the Harbour City in November to pick their next crop of recruits. The Melbourne Age resident writer on draft matters agrees with me - Talent pool a tad thin. I concur with most of what Emma Quayle says except for the "tad thin" part. I reckon it's downright anorexic! The shallowness of this year's draft pool also impacts on the new boys from the western suburbs of Sydney because, once you get past the first two or three players, there are very few who you can point to and compare with top ten picks of past bumper drafts. This stands to reason to some extent because, before this season even started, GWS was given the opportunity to select a dozen of the best 17 year olds who would have otherwise been available for drafting later this year. Names like Jeremy Cameron, Curtley Hampton, Dylan Shiel, Adam Treloar and a few others are already in the new franchise's system and are playing for the Giants in the new NEAFL competition. However, the word from insiders is that even with these few better players, that list nowhere nearly approximates the Gold Goast equivalent from last year. It is also thought that the development of the Suns' list was better enhanced by its participation last year in the stronger VFL competition. I thought it might be worthwhile at this stage to highlight the situation regarding the order of the 2011 NAB AFL Draft later this year to give an appreciation of some of the concessions available to the Giants:- 2011 draft order Round One 1. GWS Giants 2. GWS Giants 3. GWS Giants 4. 2011 AFL - 17th 5. GWS Giants 6. 2011 AFL - 16th 7. GWS Giants 8. 2011 AFL - 15th 9. GWS Giants 10. 2011 AFL - 14th 11. GWS Giants 12. 2011 AFL - 13th 13. GWS Giants 14. 2011 AFL - 12th 15. GWS Giants 16. 2011 AFL - 11th 17. 2011 AFL - 10th 18. 2011 AFL - 9th 19. 2011 AFL - 8th 20. 2011 AFL - 7th 21. 2011 AFL - 6th 22. 2011 AFL - 5th 23. 2011 AFL - 4th 24. 2011 AFL - 3rd 25. 2011 AFL - 2nd 26. 2011 AFL - 1st The GWS Giants will also have the first choice in every succeeding round of the draft. The order will change of course. Choices can be traded, there are compensation picks from last year that can be included at the option of clubs holding them and more compensation picks available to clubs that lose players at the end of the year. The Giants will also be able to barter players within the State system for picks with other clubs as the Suns did last year. Then there's the rather ominous rule that gives them access to one uncontracted player per club over two years. I use the word "ominous" advisedly because you would have to be living in a bubble if you weren't aware of the moves by GWS to steal priority draft pick Tom Scully from Melbourne under the rule which is so stacked in favour of GWS that it would be virtually impossible for the Demons or any other club to match financial offers. In a recent interview with reporter Mark Stevens, AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou indicated that the world won't end if Tom Scully defects to the Greater Western Sydney Giants. True, but Demetriou also "bristled at suggestions it would be a bad look for the game" if he went. He is terribly wrong if he really thinks that way. Apart from the complex issues on a number of levels about depriving clubs of such young talent before its anywhere near developed, there's the intriguing matter of what compensation would be available to the club should Scully take the money and run to Rooty Hill. The Stevens article states: "Melbourne is likely to get a first round pick, to be taken immediately after its routine first pick, as compensation if Scully walks. "AFL football operations manager Adrian Anderson yesterday said the AFL would not divert from its formula, despite Scully being a No.1 pick as recently as 2009." Should that be the case, then it would not only be a "bad look for the game", it would also be a bad look for the administrators involved, particularly Demetriou and Anderson who appear to be hopelessly conflicted on the whole matter. In the first instance, they have the task of ensuring that the GWS Giants enter the competition next year with the capacity to hold their own against the other clubs. On the other hand, they must make a decision on compensation which by any measure of fairness would, in Scully's case, require at least a first selection to be given to Melbourne. But Anderson has already pre-judged the issue by stating that the Demons must accept its "formula" although it is understood that provision exists for anomalous situations. As if this isn't an anomalous situation par excellence? A mid first round selection is not anywhere near adequate compensation for a first year pick with two years of development invested in him and up to a dozen years of potentially high quality service to be provided in the future. The same Mark Stevens who wrote this article which concluded that "Demetriou said he went out of his way to avoid knowing if anybody had signed with GWS - and throughout last year also shied away from gaining any Gold Coast information," said yesterday on Triple M's pre-game show that he is now certain that Tom Scully has agreed to go to GWS. Of course, this could well be sheer coincidence but the entire scenario is starting to exude a bad odour. Bad for Scully, bad for the Melbourne Football Club, bad for the new franchise and diabolical for the AFL and its administrators. The draft is bringing an ill wind in the way of the football world. There is another new concession to GWS which relates to players who turned 17 years of age between 1 January and 30 April, 2011. Such players are able to nominate for a one-off "mini draft" during the 2011 trade period and be traded to another AFL club a year before they would otherwise be eligible as part of GWS's concessions. GWS can trade up to four players over the next two trade periods. This is significant because the flip side of the weak draft pool is that the following year's group looks particularly strong. The 2011 NAB AFL Under-18 All Australian team which was announced yesterday highlights this point. Metro dominate AA selections Defenders: Jed Anderson (NT), Michael Talia (Vic Metro), Brandon Ellis (Vic Metro), Brad Crouch (Vic Country), Brody Mihocek (Tas), Alex Forster (SA) Midfield: Billy Longer (Vic Metro), Dom Tyson (Vic Metro), Stephen Coniglio (WA), Jaeger O’Meara (WA), Toby Greene (Vic Metro), Will Hoskin-Elliott (Vic Metro)
 
Forwards: Chad Wingard (SA), Sam Mayes (SA), Lachie Whitfield (Vic Country), Ben Kennedy (SA), Jonathon Patton (Vic Metro), John McKenzie (Tas) Interchange: Mitchell Grigg (SA), Brodie Grundy (SA), Taylor Adams (Vic Country), Clay Smith (Vic Country)
 
Coach: Rohan Welsh (Vic Metro) 
Assistant Coach: Matt Armstrong (TAS) Only fifteen of the 22 All Australians selected are eligible for the main draft and one, Coniglio, who is considered a certain top three selection, has yet to nominate because he also has a promising future in cricket to consider. Six others are too young for the draft although four of these players can be recruited as 17 year old trades from GWS in the special "mini draft" (while at the same time compromising future drafts). One AA player (Anderson) has already been claimed by GWS as a zone player from the Northern Territory. The leading contenders for the "mini draft" were all selected in the AA side. Brad Crouch, Jaeger O’Meara, Ben Kennedy and Brodie Grundy can nominate before 1st August and trading for them promises to be frenetic given that so many clubs have limited ability to regenerate their lists due to the highly compromised situation facing club recruiters this year. Later: Whispering Jack will reveal his favourite among the young up and comers. Hint: he's a player who won't be drafted in 2011 and his initials are JV!

THE DRAFT'S ILL WIND by Whispering Jack I risk being described as a bit of a naysayer about the coming AFL National Draft but everything I've seen, heard and read about it suggests that the draft pickings are slim and that apart from the new Greater Western Sydney Giants franchise, there will be no real beneficiaries when the clubs meet somewhere in the Harbour City in November to pick their next crop of recruits. The Melbourne Age resident writer on draft matters agrees with me - Talent pool a tad thin. I concur with most of what Emma Quayle says except for the "tad thin" part. I reckon it's downright anorexic! The shallowness of this year's draft pool also impacts on the new boys from the western suburbs of Sydney because, once you get past the first two or three players, there are very few who you can point to and compare with top ten picks of past bumper drafts. This stands to reason to some extent because, before this season even started, GWS was given the opportunity to select a dozen of the best 17 year olds who would have otherwise been available for drafting later this year. Names like Jeremy Cameron, Curtley Hampton, Dylan Shiel, Adam Treloar and a few others are already in the new franchise's system and are playing for the Giants in the new NEAFL competition. However, the word from insiders is that even with these few better players, that list nowhere nearly approximates the Gold Goast equivalent from last year. It is also thought that the development of the Suns' list was better enhanced by its participation last year in the stronger VFL competition. I thought it might be worthwhile at this stage to highlight the situation regarding the order of the 2011 NAB AFL Draft later this year to give an appreciation of some of the concessions available to the Giants:- 2011 draft order Round One 1. GWS Giants 2. GWS Giants 3. GWS Giants 4. 2011 AFL - 17th 5. GWS Giants 6. 2011 AFL - 16th 7. GWS Giants 8. 2011 AFL - 15th 9. GWS Giants 10. 2011 AFL - 14th 11. GWS Giants 12. 2011 AFL - 13th 13. GWS Giants 14. 2011 AFL - 12th 15. GWS Giants 16. 2011 AFL - 11th 17. 2011 AFL - 10th 18. 2011 AFL - 9th 19. 2011 AFL - 8th 20. 2011 AFL - 7th 21. 2011 AFL - 6th 22. 2011 AFL - 5th 23. 2011 AFL - 4th 24. 2011 AFL - 3rd 25. 2011 AFL - 2nd 26. 2011 AFL - 1st The GWS Giants will also have the first choice in every succeeding round of the draft. The order will change of course. Choices can be traded, there are compensation picks from last year that can be included at the option of clubs holding them and more compensation picks available to clubs that lose players at the end of the year. The Giants will also be able to barter players within the State system for picks with other clubs as the Suns did last year. Then there's the rather ominous rule that gives them access to one uncontracted player per club over two years. I use the word "ominous" advisedly because you would have to be living in a bubble if you weren't aware of the moves by GWS to steal priority draft pick Tom Scully from Melbourne under the rule which is so stacked in favour of GWS that it would be virtually impossible for the Demons or any other club to match financial offers. In a recent interview with reporter Mark Stevens, AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou indicated that the world won't end if Tom Scully defects to the Greater Western Sydney Giants. True, but Demetriou also "bristled at suggestions it would be a bad look for the game" if he went. He is terribly wrong if he really thinks that way. Apart from the complex issues on a number of levels about depriving clubs of such young talent before its anywhere near developed, there's the intriguing matter of what compensation would be available to the club should Scully take the money and run to Rooty Hill. The Stevens article states: "Melbourne is likely to get a first round pick, to be taken immediately after its routine first pick, as compensation if Scully walks. "AFL football operations manager Adrian Anderson yesterday said the AFL would not divert from its formula, despite Scully being a No.1 pick as recently as 2009." Should that be the case, then it would not only be a "bad look for the game", it would also be a bad look for the administrators involved, particularly Demetriou and Anderson who appear to be hopelessly conflicted on the whole matter. In the first instance, they have the task of ensuring that the GWS Giants enter the competition next year with the capacity to hold their own against the other clubs. On the other hand, they must make a decision on compensation which by any measure of fairness would, in Scully's case, require at least a first selection to be given to Melbourne. But Anderson has already pre-judged the issue by stating that the Demons must accept its "formula" although it is understood that provision exists for anomalous situations. As if this isn't an anomalous situation par excellence? A mid first round selection is not anywhere near adequate compensation for a first year pick with two years of development invested in him and up to a dozen years of potentially high quality service to be provided in the future. The same Mark Stevens who wrote this article which concluded that "Demetriou said he went out of his way to avoid knowing if anybody had signed with GWS - and throughout last year also shied away from gaining any Gold Coast information," said yesterday on Triple M's pre-game show that he is now certain that Tom Scully has agreed to go to GWS. Of course, this could well be sheer coincidence but the entire scenario is starting to exude a bad odour. Bad for Scully, bad for the Melbourne Football Club, bad for the new franchise and diabolical for the AFL and its administrators. The draft is bringing an ill wind in the way of the football world. There is another new concession to GWS which relates to players who turned 17 years of age between 1 January and 30 April, 2011. Such players are able to nominate for a one-off "mini draft" during the 2011 trade period and be traded to another AFL club a year before they would otherwise be eligible as part of GWS's concessions. GWS can trade up to four players over the next two trade periods. This is significant because the flip side of the weak draft pool is that the following year's group looks particularly strong. The 2011 NAB AFL Under-18 All Australian team which was announced yesterday highlights this point. Metro dominate AA selections Defenders: Jed Anderson (NT), Michael Talia (Vic Metro), Brandon Ellis (Vic Metro), Brad Crouch (Vic Country), Brody Mihocek (Tas), Alex Forster (SA) Midfield: Billy Longer (Vic Metro), Dom Tyson (Vic Metro), Stephen Coniglio (WA), Jaeger O’Meara (WA), Toby Greene (Vic Metro), Will Hoskin-Elliott (Vic Metro)
 
Forwards: Chad Wingard (SA), Sam Mayes (SA), Lachie Whitfield (Vic Country), Ben Kennedy (SA), Jonathon Patton (Vic Metro), John McKenzie (Tas) Interchange: Mitchell Grigg (SA), Brodie Grundy (SA), Taylor Adams (Vic Country), Clay Smith (Vic Country)
 
Coach: Rohan Welsh (Vic Metro) 
Assistant Coach: Matt Armstrong (TAS) Only fifteen of the 22 All Australians selected are eligible for the main draft and one, Coniglio, who is considered a certain top three selection, has yet to nominate because he also has a promising future in cricket to consider. Six others are too young for the draft although four of these players can be recruited as 17 year old trades from GWS in the special "mini draft" (while at the same time compromising future drafts). One AA player (Anderson) has already been claimed by GWS as a zone player from the Northern Territory. The leading contenders for the "mini draft" were all selected in the AA side. Brad Crouch, Jaeger O’Meara, Ben Kennedy and Brodie Grundy can nominate before 1st August and trading for them promises to be frenetic given that so many clubs have limited ability to regenerate their lists due to the highly compromised situation facing club recruiters this year. Later: Whispering Jack will reveal his favourite among the young up and comers. Hint: he's a player who won't be drafted in 2011 and his initials are JV!

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THE DAY OF THE TIGER by KC from Casey Saturday was a bad day in general for Tigers. The animal species continues to be endangered, the AFL team lost by over 100 points and the airline bearing the same name was in deep trouble after being sidelined by aviation authorities. However, the Werribee version of the Tiger notched up a victory and ironically, in view of the problems with the airline, it was at Avalon Airport Oval and the victim was the Casey Scorpions. The misery of a second consecutive lacklustre performance in a fortnight for the Scorps was prolonged by a three-minute long melee late in the game. When the dust settled and the final siren sounded, Casey found itself in arrears by 12 points after trailing by almost eight goals early in the final term. To make things worse, the team is now in grave danger of slipping out of contention for a top four berth. The ugly incident that featured at the end of the game was matched at the beginning by an accidental but sickening clash of heads between Werribee skipper Dom Gleeson and young Luke Tapscott. Play was stopped for several minutes while Gleeson received attention before he was eventually stretchered off. The game resumed in a sombre mood marred further by the swirling winds that favoured the end to which Werribee was kicking. The Scorpions defended well to the defensive side of the ground but the Tigers drew first blood. Lynden Dunn responded with Casey's first but late in the term Werribee scored two quick goals to secure a 13-point lead at the first break. The visitors responded early in the second term with two early goals and looked to be well placed with the wind advantage. However, the momentum of the game changed dramatically and suddenly in favour of Werribee. Hamish McIntosh was getting on top in the ruck and the Tiger small brigade took over at ground level to rattle on the next three goals. A late mark in the goal square and the subsequent conversion from Max Gawn narrowed the deficit to 14 points at the main break. Casey had suffered a major blow with the withdrawal of full back Matthew Warnock from the residual effects of concussion and his steadiness in defence was sorely missed. Werribee remained in control with the first two second half goals but Casey dug deep to return fire with two of their own. Twenty minutes into the quarter they were handily placed and just 13 points down after an unattended Dunn scored from the goal square. In another setback for the Scorpions, the game turned again with the Tiger runners taking full advantage of the stiffening breeze to slot through four goals in the latter part of the third quarter and two more immediately after the break. Suddenly, the home side was coasting with a 47 point lead. With little time left to mount a comeback, the Casey spirit lifted and suddenly, the goals flowed. Brendon Fevola, who had been well subdued by Werribee's Tarrant came to life with two goals and an assist. There was still a glimmer of hope when the margin was reduced to three goals with five or so minutes left on the clock but a turnover led to a Majak Daw mark and goal to put the game beyond the visitors. For the Casey Scorpions, Addam Maric was a busy four quarter contributor around the ground with 33 disposals while Tapscott overcame the early setback of his head clash with Gleeson to finish with 16 kicks and 2 handballs. Tim Mohr, Tom McDonald and Troy Davis were solid in defence and Lynden Dunn was the most effective forward for Casey with three goals, Michael Stockdale and Wade Lees were busy at times and Gawn worked hard in the ruck and up forward where he finished with two goals. The Scorpions groomed talented Victoria Country Under 18 representative Hayden Hector from Gippsland Power under the 23rd player rule. Hector showed some dash and was certainly not overawed by his introduction to senior football. Casey has another tough assignment next Sunday at Box Hill City Oval when it takes on the improved Hawks who will be anxious to make the most of what might well be their last opportunity to stake a claim for a top eight placing. HOW THE DEMONS FARED Clint Bartram (8 kicks, 8 handballs, 4 marks, 2 goals) – created some good run after a slow start but some of his disposals went astray and will count against him although a couple of goals when he went forward were helpful. Matthew Bate (10 kicks, 6 handballs, 3 marks, 1 goal) - a subdued performance coming back from the break after a few weeks where he must have been close to a call up for the Demons. Robert Campbell (2 kicks, 4 handballs, 1 mark) - did not have a great impact in the ruck or around the ground. Lucas Cook (7 kicks, 2 handballs, 1 mark, 1 goal) - patchy form and a quiet day for the youngster. Troy Davis (5 kicks, 7 handballs, 1 mark) - reasonably sound in defence in difficult conditions for talls. Lynden Dunn (10 kicks, 4 handballs, 6 marks, 3 goals) - kicked a few goals and did some clever things but the team needed more spark from him when the chips were down. Michael Evans (11 kicks, 7 handballs, 4 marks) – was handy but only in patches and did not use the natural asset of his pace enough. Max Gawn (7 kicks, 11 handballs, 6 marks) – had a tough opponent in the ruck and did very well there, around the ground and up forward where he kicked a couple of goals. Cameron Johnston (6 kicks, 5 handballs, 3 marks) – failed to show out and did not dispose of the ball enough when he did get possession. Tom McDonald (9 kicks, 6 handballs, 5 marks) – played mainly in defence and looked very solid. Tom McNamara (4 kicks, 5 handballs, 1 mark) - tried hard but failed to make much of an impact in a midfield that was beaten to the ball and for pace. Addam Maric (27 kicks, 6 handballs, 5 marks) - an excellent four quarter display from Maric who gave great rebound in a team that struggled for consistency all day. Luke Tapscott (16 kicks, 2 handballs, 6 marks) - showed great strength and is a beautiful kick of the football. A similar outing at this level next week should see him promoted back to the Melbourne side. Casey Scorpions 1.3.9 4.7.31 6.12.48 13.12.90 Werribee Tigers 3.4.22 6.9.45 12.11.83 15.12.102 Goals Casey Scorpions Dunn 3 Bartram Fevola Gawn 2 Bate Cook McGough Mohr Werribee Tigers Castello Warren 3 Schibeci 2 Daw Harper McIntosh Mangan Mather Ross Urquhart Best Casey Scorpions Maric Davis Mohr McNamara Tapscott Gawn Werribee Tigers Tarrant Mather Tighe Tuck Ross Hartigan The ray of hope for the Casey Scorpions was their rapidly improving reserves which beat another opponent in the competition's top four with a 47 point win in an excellent away from home performance. Senior coach Brad Gotch told the media that the improvement in the reserves who are now fifth on the ladder was significant as "you can see there's a fair bit of depth in the squad and we've been trying to rotate those Casey guys around a little bit". Mitch Dowse booted four goals and Gippsland Power youngsters Luke Tynan and Aiden Lindsay were standouts in a game that also saw the return from a long layoff with injury of talented small man Danny Nicholls. Casey Scorpions 5.2.32 8.5.53 10.8.68 18.10.118 Werribee Tigers 2.7.19 5.10.40 6.14.50 9.17.71 Goals Casey Scorpions Dowse 4 Gent Nicholls Riseley 2 Allen Baumgartner Bell Dearaugo Lindsay Petropoulos Purves Waite Werribee Tigers Allwright Perkins 2 Davis Kennedy Moloney Risol Ruggles Best Casey Scorpions Tynan Lindsay Bell Dowse Bolton Purdy Werribee Tigers Rockefeller Sullivan Ruggles Laracy Schroder Saker

THE DAY OF THE TIGER by KC from Casey Saturday was a bad day in general for Tigers. The animal species continues to be endangered, the AFL team lost by over 100 points and the airline bearing the same name was in deep trouble after being sidelined by aviation authorities. However, the Werribee version of the Tiger notched up a victory and ironically, in view of the problems with the airline, it was at Avalon Airport Oval and the victim was the Casey Scorpions. The misery of a second consecutive lacklustre performance in a fortnight for the Scorps was prolonged by a three-minute long melee late in the game. When the dust settled and the final siren sounded, Casey found itself in arrears by 12 points after trailing by almost eight goals early in the final term. To make things worse, the team is now in grave danger of slipping out of contention for a top four berth. The ugly incident that featured at the end of the game was matched at the beginning by an accidental but sickening clash of heads between Werribee skipper Dom Gleeson and young Luke Tapscott. Play was stopped for several minutes while Gleeson received attention before he was eventually stretchered off. The game resumed in a sombre mood marred further by the swirling winds that favoured the end to which Werribee was kicking. The Scorpions defended well to the defensive side of the ground but the Tigers drew first blood. Lynden Dunn responded with Casey's first but late in the term Werribee scored two quick goals to secure a 13-point lead at the first break. The visitors responded early in the second term with two early goals and looked to be well placed with the wind advantage. However, the momentum of the game changed dramatically and suddenly in favour of Werribee. Hamish McIntosh was getting on top in the ruck and the Tiger small brigade took over at ground level to rattle on the next three goals. A late mark in the goal square and the subsequent conversion from Max Gawn narrowed the deficit to 14 points at the main break. Casey had suffered a major blow with the withdrawal of full back Matthew Warnock from the residual effects of concussion and his steadiness in defence was sorely missed. Werribee remained in control with the first two second half goals but Casey dug deep to return fire with two of their own. Twenty minutes into the quarter they were handily placed and just 13 points down after an unattended Dunn scored from the goal square. In another setback for the Scorpions, the game turned again with the Tiger runners taking full advantage of the stiffening breeze to slot through four goals in the latter part of the third quarter and two more immediately after the break. Suddenly, the home side was coasting with a 47 point lead. With little time left to mount a comeback, the Casey spirit lifted and suddenly, the goals flowed. Brendon Fevola, who had been well subdued by Werribee's Tarrant came to life with two goals and an assist. There was still a glimmer of hope when the margin was reduced to three goals with five or so minutes left on the clock but a turnover led to a Majak Daw mark and goal to put the game beyond the visitors. For the Casey Scorpions, Addam Maric was a busy four quarter contributor around the ground with 33 disposals while Tapscott overcame the early setback of his head clash with Gleeson to finish with 16 kicks and 2 handballs. Tim Mohr, Tom McDonald and Troy Davis were solid in defence and Lynden Dunn was the most effective forward for Casey with three goals, Michael Stockdale and Wade Lees were busy at times and Gawn worked hard in the ruck and up forward where he finished with two goals. The Scorpions groomed talented Victoria Country Under 18 representative Hayden Hector from Gippsland Power under the 23rd player rule. Hector showed some dash and was certainly not overawed by his introduction to senior football. Casey has another tough assignment next Sunday at Box Hill City Oval when it takes on the improved Hawks who will be anxious to make the most of what might well be their last opportunity to stake a claim for a top eight placing. HOW THE DEMONS FARED Clint Bartram (8 kicks, 8 handballs, 4 marks, 2 goals) – created some good run after a slow start but some of his disposals went astray and will count against him although a couple of goals when he went forward were helpful. Matthew Bate (10 kicks, 6 handballs, 3 marks, 1 goal) - a subdued performance coming back from the break after a few weeks where he must have been close to a call up for the Demons. Robert Campbell (2 kicks, 4 handballs, 1 mark) - did not have a great impact in the ruck or around the ground. Lucas Cook (7 kicks, 2 handballs, 1 mark, 1 goal) - patchy form and a quiet day for the youngster. Troy Davis (5 kicks, 7 handballs, 1 mark) - reasonably sound in defence in difficult conditions for talls. Lynden Dunn (10 kicks, 4 handballs, 6 marks, 3 goals) - kicked a few goals and did some clever things but the team needed more spark from him when the chips were down. Michael Evans (11 kicks, 7 handballs, 4 marks) – was handy but only in patches and did not use the natural asset of his pace enough. Max Gawn (7 kicks, 11 handballs, 6 marks) – had a tough opponent in the ruck and did very well there, around the ground and up forward where he kicked a couple of goals. Cameron Johnston (6 kicks, 5 handballs, 3 marks) – failed to show out and did not dispose of the ball enough when he did get possession. Tom McDonald (9 kicks, 6 handballs, 5 marks) – played mainly in defence and looked very solid. Tom McNamara (4 kicks, 5 handballs, 1 mark) - tried hard but failed to make much of an impact in a midfield that was beaten to the ball and for pace. Addam Maric (27 kicks, 6 handballs, 5 marks) - an excellent four quarter display from Maric who gave great rebound in a team that struggled for consistency all day. Luke Tapscott (16 kicks, 2 handballs, 6 marks) - showed great strength and is a beautiful kick of the football. A similar outing at this level next week should see him promoted back to the Melbourne side. Casey Scorpions 1.3.9 4.7.31 6.12.48 13.12.90 Werribee Tigers 3.4.22 6.9.45 12.11.83 15.12.102 Goals Casey Scorpions Dunn 3 Bartram Fevola Gawn 2 Bate Cook McGough Mohr Werribee Tigers Castello Warren 3 Schibeci 2 Daw Harper McIntosh Mangan Mather Ross Urquhart Best Casey Scorpions Maric Davis Mohr McNamara Tapscott Gawn Werribee Tigers Tarrant Mather Tighe Tuck Ross Hartigan The ray of hope for the Casey Scorpions was their rapidly improving reserves which beat another opponent in the competition's top four with a 47 point win in an excellent away from home performance. Senior coach Brad Gotch told the media that the improvement in the reserves who are now fifth on the ladder was significant as "you can see there's a fair bit of depth in the squad and we've been trying to rotate those Casey guys around a little bit". Mitch Dowse booted four goals and Gippsland Power youngsters Luke Tynan and Aiden Lindsay were standouts in a game that also saw the return from a long layoff with injury of talented small man Danny Nicholls. Casey Scorpions 5.2.32 8.5.53 10.8.68 18.10.118 Werribee Tigers 2.7.19 5.10.40 6.14.50 9.17.71 Goals Casey Scorpions Dowse 4 Gent Nicholls Riseley 2 Allen Baumgartner Bell Dearaugo Lindsay Petropoulos Purves Waite Werribee Tigers Allwright Perkins 2 Davis Kennedy Moloney Risol Ruggles Best Casey Scorpions Tynan Lindsay Bell Dowse Bolton Purdy Werribee Tigers Rockefeller Sullivan Ruggles Laracy Schroder Saker

Jack Watts increased his lead this round 100. Jack Watts 82. Jack Trengove 80. Brent Moloney 68. Stefan Martin 65. Nathan Jones Jared Rivers 60. Colin Sylvia 37. Mark Jamar 36. Jordie McKenzie 35. Rohan Bail 27. Jordan Gysberts 25. Colin Garland Luke Tapscott 23. Brad Green Ricky Petterd 19. James Frawley 16. Liam Jurrah 15. Tom Scully 13. Neville Jetta Jeremy Howe 10. Cale Morton 8. Aaron Davey Addam Maric 7. Jamie Bennell Michael Evans 4. Joel Macdonald 3. Clint Bartram Michael Newton 2. Jack Grimes Dan Nicholson 1. Matthew Warnock

Ha Ha. I have a print out somewhere of a screenshot of when we hit 666 visitors. How far we've come. Now we get about 35,000 page views a day.

SCALPED by The Oracle Melbourne suffered yet another Etihad reversal in its up and down 2011 season when it was monstered by the Western Bulldogs to the tune of 64 points. The Demons opened brightly and held sway for the first ten minutes of the kicking two of the first three goals and dominating possession. They could have been further in front but for some recklessly stupid football. A couple of unforced errors caused turnovers, allowing the Dogs to regain their composure early and to ultimately take control of proceedings. From there it was virtually a one way street with the bigger, stronger and vastly more experienced Western Bulldogs completely dictating terms and providing a masterclass in how to best the Demons in confined spaces. That's not a difficult thing to do. Rodney Eade needed only to consult a replay of Melbourne's earlier visits to the same venue when it was closed down by North Melbourne and St. Kilda. The Demons were not assisted by their poor disposal and the fact that four shots at goal managed to hit the woodwork at times when they were desperately trying to get back into the game. The team has now lost at the Docklands three times this season to out of form teams. The pre game positive for the Demons was the fact that the coach and match committee stuck fat with the policy of adding youth to the team makeup when Sam Blease was included in the team mix to replace the injured Joel Macdonald (whose presence would have been handy on the half back line). The club resisted the temptation of bringing in some of the more experienced names who remain at Casey and while this strategy will, in all likelihood, pay its dividends in the long term, this was to be a game in which experience would out over youth. The Bulldogs' big guns in Brownlow Medallist Adam Cooney, Ryan Griffen, Matthew Boyd, Callan Ward, Daniel Giansiracusa and even spearhead Barry Hall were all in top form and with superior tactics, better disposal , some early assistance from the umpires who awarded some puzzling free kicks in front of goals and wiser heads in the coach's box the scene was set for a Demon scalping. There was little joy for Melbourne with most of the young brigade subdued. On top of that Brad Green, Brent Moloney and Colin Sylvia were all well covered as was Tom Scully who struggled under a tag and possibly the weight of publicity after continuing to be in the media headlights. By the end of the night, the team was in complete disarray and the Bulldogs, who little over a month ago were monstered themselves by the West Coast Eagles to the tune of well in excess of 100 points, had a picnic in the final term. Ben Hudson, who had been struggling in the VFL until recently for (and was well beaten at Williamstown by Max Gawn before the youngster made his AFL debut) won hands down in the ruck against an out of sorts Mark Jamar in his second game back from a lay off (how often does that happen?) giving his team the advantage from the stoppages. The Doggies were more desperate in the contests for the football and that gave them sufficient edge in the middle part of the game to prevent any chance of a Demon comeback and to ultimately set up a big win. For Melbourne, kudos go to youngsters Jack Trengove and Jack Watts whose development continues at a great pace and Ricky Petterd who was dangerous up forward and treated the fans to what will go close to winning Mark of the Year. Jordie McKenzie and Nathan Jones worked hard in the middle but lacked support in the tough going with too many of their teammates missing in action. For the club, it was again a case of one or two steps forward followed by yet another step back. Melbourne 2.4.16 4.9.33 7.13.55 8.15.63 Western Bulldogs 4.5.29 8.9.57 13.10.88 19.15.127 Goals Melbourne Howe Petterd Watts 2 Sylvia Trengove Western Bulldogs Giansiracusa 4 Hall 3 Dahlhaus Griffen Higgins Ward 2 Cooney Gilbee Grant Picken Best Melbourne Trengove Watts McKenzie Petterd Jones Martin Western Bulldogs Griffen Cooney Ward Boyd Giansiracusa Dahlhaus Picken Injuries Melbourne Nil Western Bulldogs Nil Changes Melbourne Nil Western Bulldogs Nil Reports Melbourne Nil Western Bulldogs Nil Umpires Farmer Rosebury Mollison Crowd 25, 916 at Etihad Stadium

6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 ...

SCALPED by The Oracle Melbourne suffered yet another Etihad reversal in its up and down 2011 season when it was monstered by the Western Bulldogs to the tune of 64 points. The Demons opened brightly and held sway for the first ten minutes of the kicking two of the first three goals and dominating possession. They could have been further in front but for some recklessly stupid football. A couple of unforced errors caused turnovers, allowing the Dogs to regain their composure early and to ultimately take control of proceedings. From there it was virtually a one way street with the bigger, stronger and vastly more experienced Western Bulldogs completely dictating terms and providing a masterclass in how to best the Demons in confined spaces. That's not a difficult thing to do. Rodney Eade needed only to consult a replay of Melbourne's earlier visits to the same venue when it was closed down by North Melbourne and St. Kilda. The Demons were not assisted by their poor disposal and the fact that four shots at goal managed to hit the woodwork at times when they were desperately trying to get back into the game. The team has now lost at the Docklands three times this season to out of form teams. The pre game positive for the Demons was the fact that the coach and match committee stuck fat with the policy of adding youth to the team makeup when Sam Blease was included in the team mix to replace the injured Joel Macdonald (whose presence would have been handy on the half back line). The club resisted the temptation of bringing in some of the more experienced names who remain at Casey and while this strategy will, in all likelihood, pay its dividends in the long term, this was to be a game in which experience would out over youth. The Bulldogs' big guns in Brownlow Medallist Adam Cooney, Ryan Griffen, Matthew Boyd, Callan Ward, Daniel Giansiracusa and even spearhead Barry Hall were all in top form and with superior tactics, better disposal , some early assistance from the umpires who awarded some puzzling free kicks in front of goals and wiser heads in the coach's box the scene was set for a Demon scalping. There was little joy for Melbourne with most of the young brigade subdued. On top of that Brad Green, Brent Moloney and Colin Sylvia were all well covered as was Tom Scully who struggled under a tag and possibly the weight of publicity after continuing to be in the media headlights. By the end of the night, the team was in complete disarray and the Bulldogs, who little over a month ago were monstered themselves by the West Coast Eagles to the tune of well in excess of 100 points, had a picnic in the final term. Ben Hudson, who had been struggling in the VFL until recently for (and was well beaten at Williamstown by Max Gawn before the youngster made his AFL debut) won hands down in the ruck against an out of sorts Mark Jamar in his second game back from a lay off (how often does that happen?) giving his team the advantage from the stoppages. The Doggies were more desperate in the contests for the football and that gave them sufficient edge in the middle part of the game to prevent any chance of a Demon comeback and to ultimately set up a big win. For Melbourne, kudos go to youngsters Jack Trengove and Jack Watts whose development continues at a great pace and Ricky Petterd who was dangerous up forward and treated the fans to what will go close to winning Mark of the Year. Jordie McKenzie and Nathan Jones worked hard in the middle but lacked support in the tough going with too many of their teammates missing in action. For the club, it was again a case of one or two steps forward followed by yet another step back. Melbourne 2.4.16 4.9.33 7.13.55 8.15.63 Western Bulldogs 4.5.29 8.9.57 13.10.88 19.15.127 Goals Melbourne Howe Petterd Watts 2 Sylvia Trengove Western Bulldogs Giansiracusa 4 Hall 3 Dahlhaus Griffen Higgins Ward 2 Cooney Gilbee Grant Picken Best Melbourne Trengove Watts McKenzie Petterd Jones Martin Western Bulldogs Griffen Cooney Ward Boyd Giansiracusa Dahlhaus Picken Injuries Melbourne Nil Western Bulldogs Nil Changes Melbourne Nil Western Bulldogs Nil Reports Melbourne Nil Western Bulldogs Nil Umpires Farmer Rosebury Mollison Crowd 25, 916 at Etihad Stadium

I'm not sure but I think so.

Oops I forgot that important part. I've included it now in the original post.

I'm pretty sure it is click throughs.

Hi All, The day that I thought would never come has arrived. It is very deep regret that I inform you that after 11 years Demonland will be using advertising banners on the site. After many years of out of pocket expenses and despite many generous donations I have finally turned to the dark side. I have attempted to make the Google Ad banners as discrete as they can be and attempted to let them blend in with the look and feel of the site. They will be at the top of each page under the main banner, the bottom of the page and after the first post on a page (in this instance there will be no top banner). For those who don't like the advertising banners I am offering a paid subscription based service that will remove the advertising banners from view whilst you are logged in. If there is enough interest I may offer a Members Only forum. This is not a cash grab and all money raised will go towards paying for and maintaining the site, the forum software as well as other associated costs. All remaining funds will be donated back to the footy club. The costs for a Demonland.com membership is as follows: Annual Demonland.com membership is $20 per year. Lifetime Demonland.com membership is $50 for life. - You are also entitled to custom your own title (the wording under your avatar). You can subscribed by clicking the Subscription tab under the main Demonland logo at the top of the page next to the Home tab and follow the prompts through to PayPal. I understand that not everyone can afford this and membership is not required to sign up and read and post on the site. All I ask is that you occasionally look at the advertising and if something catches your fancy then by all means click on the link. Or you can just ignore it. Thank you for your understanding. Cheers and Go Dees, Andy

The day has finally come. Demonland.com now outranks the MFC Official website. The ranking is worked out by their 1 month traffic rank. The 1 month rank is calculated using a combination of average daily visitors and pageviews over the past month. Demonland is now 14th (our highest ever rank) out of all the AFL sites and the highest of the fan sites. The list can be found below. http://www.alexa.com/topsites/category/Top/Sports/Football/Australian_Rules

It was in the first half of 2010 but who could ever forget the day when our colours were red and pink and we nicely matched the umpires. So much so that we found a new way to lose a game - by handballing to an umpire instead of a teammate. I reckon we owe the Dogs one for that game. They kicked the last two goals and just fell in. MELBOURNE Backs Cameron Bruce Matthew Warnock James Frawley Half backs James McDonald Colin Garland Clint Bartram Centreline Jack Trengove Jordie McKenzie Jared Rivers Half forwards Brad Green Colin Sylvia Lynden Dunn Forwards Nathan Jones Matthew Bate Aaron Davey Followers Mark Jamar Jack Grimes Brent Moloney Interchange Jamie Bennell Daniel Hughes Paul Johnson Tom Scully Emergencies Neville Jetta Joel Macdonald Michael Newton In Daniel Hughes Paul Johnson Jordie McKenzie Out Joel Macdonald Stefan Martin Ricky Petterd (shoulder) New Daniel Hughes (Sandringham 23 186cm 82kg) WESTERN BULLDOGS Backs Jarrod Harbrow Brian Lake Dale Morris Half backs Ryan Hargrave Tom Williams Lindsay Gilbee Centreline Ryan Griffen Daniel Cross Andrejs Everitt Half forwards Robert Murphy Mitch Hahn Shaun Higgins Forwards Daniel Giansiracusa Barry Hall Jason Akermanis Followers Ben Hudson Matthew Boyd Adam Cooney Interchange Dylan Addison Jarrad Grant Jordan Roughead Brennan Stack Emergencies Josh Hill Will Minson Easton Wood In Matthew Boyd Brennan Stack Out Nathan Eagleton (leg) Brad Johnson (groin)

That's not necessary either Choko.

We have a new leader. Mr. Jack Watts ... 84. Jack Watts 80. Brent Moloney 68. Stefan Martin 68. Jack Trengove 65. Nathan Jones 62. Jared Rivers 60. Colin Sylvia 37. Mark Jamar 35. Rohan Bail 27. Jordan Gysberts 25. Colin Garland Jordie McKenzie Luke Tapscott 23. Brad Green 16. Liam Jurrah 15. Tom Scully 13. James Frawley Neville Jetta 12. Jeremy Howe Ricky Petterd 10. Cale Morton 8. Aaron Davey Addam Maric 7. Jamie Bennell Michael Evans 4. Joel Macdonald 3. Clint Bartram Michael Newton 2. Jack Grimes 1. Dan Nicholson Matthew Warnock

SLOW TRAIN COMING by Whispering Jack The 1:13 from Frankston was running about seven minutes late when it came up around the bend and stopped at Malvern station. I had been concerned, up to the point at which I squeezed myself into the overcrowded carriage, about what might occur on the MCG later that afternoon but my fears were allayed at hearing the conversations on the train. The Tiger fans were discussing their team and, with every passing station that saw further cramming and huddling of masses of humanity into overloaded carriages, my confidence grew. For sure, they spoke with reverence of Riewoldt, Martin, Cotchin and Deledio but these names were sprinkled with the likes of other Tiger heroes mentioned in the team. Names of recycled players rolled off their tongues. Bachar Houli, Shaun Grigg, Mitchell Farmer, Brad Miller and Tom Hislop, all introduced from other clubs. The Tigers were supposed to be a promising young side, developing for the future but there were too many transplanted names. There was no comparison with the depth and richness of the youth at Melbourne, the team of the future. I received a nodding look from the priest under whose armpit I was encamped as the slow train rolled into Richmond station. He seemed comforted by the rosary beads clutched in his crab-like fingers under his long black coat. Out on the platform, the sun was shining brightly. We were home! I confess now that I wasn't feeling all that comfortable about half an hour later as the six minute mark of the first term ticked by even more slowly than the train that delivered us to the MCG. By then, the Demons had barely come within touching distance of football, Richmond was leading 2.4.16 to 0.0.0 and had eight inside-50s to nil. I was wishing at this point that I had stayed in the train and moved on to Flinders Street. By now, I might have been happily passing Broadmeadows inside an empty carriage oblivious to the events taking place at the cauldron filled with more than 60,000 football fans. But my how quickly things can change? A Tiger error allowed Brad Green through for the team's first goal. They replied and Green came back with another, the first of six unanswered goals that ultimately determined the outcome of the game. By quarter time, Melbourne led by 20 points and was ahead in the inside 50 count by 17 to 13, such had been its dominance in the latter part of the term. The form of Jack Watts who kicked two goals for the quarter was an ominous sign for Richmond. Just as important was the way in which the entire side worked hard to team together once those cobwebs were removed. After Tyrone Vickery threatened with two early goals, the Demons reasserted their dominance. By the main break, they were in complete control and 29 points in front. The lead stretched out to 38 points by the five minute mark of the final half when Stef Martin goaled and another blowout threatened if only the Demons had been able to convert the multitude of opportunities that presented themselves in the penultimate half hour. At least they worked harder than ever before at keeping the ball in the forward sector. The count for the third term was 2.10.22 to 3.4.22, an even result (thanks to a late Watts goal) despite Melbourne's dominance. The margin was just close enough to keep the Tiger faithful at the ground a little longer so as to ensure that the train carriage on the way back home would again be overloaded. The teams fought it out, the Tiges threatened but never got close enough and the final minutes were a scrap with only Liam Jurrah's unpredictable excitement to delight the crowd. Nathan Jones (24 touches) and Brent Moloney (30 disposals) gave Melbourne the grunt in an engine room powered up by the return of Mark Jamar. James Frawley kept Riewoldt in check although the Tiger forward did not seem quite right. Colin Garland and Jared Rivers kept the rest of the Richmond attack at bay most of the time. Much had been made before of the battle of the early draft picks and the emergence of Dustin Martin as star quality but for mine, Jack Watts, Jack Trengove, Tom Scully and Jordie McKenzie were standouts. They, along with the likes of Stef Martin, Jeremy Howe, James Strauss and Dan Nicholson are the promise and the blessing of the future. The slow train is coming. Melbourne 7.1.43 12.4.76 14.14.98 17.16.118 Richmond 3.5.23 7.5.47 10.9.69 13.13.91 Goals Melbourne Green Trengove Watts 3 Jones Jurrah Martin 2 Howe Sylvia Richmond Vickery 3 Farmer Newman 2 Deledio Edwards Foley Grigg Martin Riewoldt Best Melbourne Jones Watts Martin Moloney Rivers Scully McKenzie Richmond Foley Edwards Nahas Cotchin Deledio Newman Injuries Melbourne Joel Macdonald (knee) Richmond Nil Changes Melbourne Nil Richmond Nil Reports Melbourne Nil Richmond Nil Umpires Margetts Stevic Findlay Crowd 61,900 at the MCG