Demonland

Games MFC 2010 18 Total 18 Goals MFC 2010 8 Total 8 Games CSFC 2010 1 Goals CSFC 2010 2

ANNIVERSARY - THE LAST PREMIERSHIP by Whispering Jack The rivalry between Melbourne and Collingwood has always been strong but in the middle of the twentieth century it was a t fever pitch. It ended with the 1964 Grand Final played exactly 46 years ago today. The two clubs finished first and second respectively at the end of the 1964 home and away season but it took a last minute Hassa Mann snap from a pocket at Hawthorn in the second last round to deliver the Demons' place in the finals for the eleventh consecutive year. The Demons demolished the Magpies by 89-points in the second semi-final and was firm favourite to beat the same opponent in the Grand Final. A dour Collingwood was a more difficult opponent in the big game. They trailled by a point at quarter time and held a two point lead at half time. Melbourne grabbed the lead in the "premiership quarter", keeping the Pies goalless to lead by eleven points at the final break. The Magpies bounced back in the final term and Ray Gabelich's long run and goal that seemed to last an eternity put the Collingwood in front by two points. In a dramatic finale, Melbourne's back pocket player Neil "Froggy" Crompton following his man up the ground and kicked the goal that put his team in front. There was more excitement in a frenetic nail-biting finish as Demon full forward Barry Bourke took a saving mark in defence. The siren sounded and Melbourne had won its twelfth and last (to date) premiership. Frank "Bluey" Adams and skipper Ron Barassi Junior who had been involved in exactly half that number had played their last games in the red and blue. Adams retired and Barassi crossed to Carlton in the off season. It was the end of an era. Melbourne 2.6.18 5.7.37 7.10.52 8.16.64 Collingwood 2.5.17 5.9.39 5.11.41 8.12.60 Goals Melbourne Townsend Lord 2 Bourke Crompton Mann Collingwood Gabelich Waters 2 Bone Dalton Steer Tuddenham Best Melbourne Adams Dixon "Tassie" Johnson Wise H Mann Williams Collingwood Hill Steer Bone Potter Henderson Dalton Crowd 102, 469 at the MCG Field Umpire Noel Brophy THE TEAMS MELBOURNE Backs Crompton Massey "Tassie" Johnson Half backs Anderson Roet Davis Centreline Dixon Williams Adams Half forwards Kenneally Jacobs Vagg Forwards Lord Bourke Townsend Followers Wise Barassi (captain) Mann Reserves McLean Emselle Coach Norm Smith COLLINGWOOD Backs Reeves Potter Steer Half backs Hill Mahon Wright Centreline Watt Henderson Chapman Half forwards Tuddenham McLean Norman Forwards Waters Graham Dalton Followers Gabelich (captain) Rose Bone Reserves Urquhart Turner Coach Bob Rose THE DEMONS OF 1964 Coach: Norm Smith 21.11.1915 183 cm 82.5 kg - the greatest coach of them all, Smith started his career the hard way playing 40 reserves games before breaking into the Melbourne senior side in 1935. He played 211 games and kicked 540 goals and played a big part in the club winning three flags in a row from 1939 to 1941 retiring from the club after the 1948 premiership win over Essendon to captain coach Fitzroy. He returned to coach the Demons in 1952 and gradually developed one of the most outstanding teams in League history coaching them to 11 consecutive finals appearances, six premierships and eight grand finals. Smith was sacked in sensational circumstances in mid 1965 but was reinstated and coached the club to the end of 1967. In all, he was involved as a player and coach with ten of Melbourne's twelve premierships. Captain: Ron Barassi 27.02.1935 178 cm 83.5 kg 1953-64 204 games 195 goals Jumper No. 31 Position Ruck Rover - Melbourne's most famous player who may not have had the most talent but possessed a fierce determination and will to win. The son of a former Demon player of the 30's who lost his life in World War Two, Barassi was taken under the wing of coach Norm Smith. He began as a half forward flanker but soon revolutionised the game in the position of ruck rover. He established himself as a leading personality in modern football's most successful side and was appointed captain in 1960 winning the club champion award in 1961 and in the premiership year - 1964. The grand final win in that year was his sixth premiership and last game for the club. Barassi broke the hearts of many young Demon supporters when he transferred to Carlton at the start of 1965 to take on the role of captain coach. He became a successful coach with the rejuvenated Blues and then the Kangaroos before returning for a less than successful stint as coach of Melbourne in the eighties. Recently left the Swans' Board and is back in the fold as a Demon supporter. Vice Captain: Harold "Hassa" Mann 10.10.1940 177 cm 76 kg 1959-68 178 games 193 goals Jumper No. 29 Position Rover - came to Melbourne from Rutherglen as a half forward flanker but soon found a niche in the centre. Mann played in premiership teams in his first two years at the club and won the Bluey Truscott Medal as club champion in 1962 and 1963. Norm Smith switched his star centreman to a roving role in the 1964 finals series and the move came up trumps as the prolific ball winner was named in the best three players in both games. When Barassi left to captain-coach at Carlton, Mann was appointed skipper and won another best and fairest in 1967. Frank "Bluey" Adams 12.06.1935 168 cm 72 kg 1953-64 164 games 180 goals Jumper No. 6 Position Wing - from Echuca, Adams played in six winning grand final sides and was one of the fastest players in the competition having made the final of the Stawell Gift and the Bendigo 1000. He was involved in a famous collision with Collingwood winger Des Healey in the 1955 grand final. Adams retired at the end of 1964 and became a TV commentator and also joined the MFC committee. Tony Anderson 31.01.42 183 cm 82.5 kg 1963-69 75 games 2 goals Jumper No. 11 Position Half back Flank - recruited from University Blacks, Anderson was a courageous defender who represented Victoria in his club's premiership year. Barry Bourke 14.09.1943 179 cm 77 kg 1963-73 175 games 154 goals Jumper No. 14 Position Full Forward - originally from Neerim South, Bourke stated with Melbourne Under 19's and broke into League football in 1963 when he was the team's leading goal kicker. Over the years was a versatile player and later in his career was an excellent back pocket. Represented his state in 1966, 1969 and 1970. Neil "Froggy" Crompton 16.08.1937 178 cm 78.5 kg 1957-66 99 games 24 goals Jumper No. 5 Position Back Pocket - a reliable back pocket player from Ormond, the late "Froggy" Crompton became famous for following his man downfield and kicking the winning goal in the 1964 grand final. He was also a tremendous batsman for his state. Frank Davis 25.08.1944 178 cm 72.5 kg 168 games 2 goals Jumper No. 40 Position Half Back Flank - a first year player who broke into the side and acquitted himself well for one who was so inexperienced. David went on to represent his state and captain the club from 1970-2. Brian Dixon 20.05.1936 175 cm 70 kg 1954-68 252 games 41 goals Jumper No. 9 Position Wing - a prolific possession winner for the Demons for over a decade in its most successful era, Dixon joined the club from Melbourne High School in 1954 winning the club champion trophy in 1960 and Tassie Medal for best and fairest in the 1961 National Carnival. Dixon played in five premiership victories for Melbourne and went on to become a State parliamentarian and coached at North Melbourne. Ken Emselle 17.06.1944 174 cm 73 kg 1962-69 97 games 109 goals Jumper No. 10 Position 19th Man - a clever and talented rover whose father Richie was back pocket in three successive Melbourne premiership teams from 1939, Emselle worked his way through the ranks having started with the Under 19's and started on the bench in the 1964 grand final. Graeme Jacobs 06.03.1944 189 cm 84.5 kg 1964-67 36 games 49 goals Jumper No. 20 Position Centre Half Forward - Jacobs was a talented 20 year old from East Burwood who walked into the club asking for a game and came into the side in its premiership year as a forward/ruckman and proved a dangerous customer around the goals. Was cleared to the Swans over what was believed to be a disciplinary matter. Bob "Tassie" Johnson 02.12.1937 189 cm 89 kg 1959-69 202 games 20 goals Jumper No. 8 Position Back Pocket - a long kicking defender originally from North Launceston, "Tassie" stood out of football in 1958 so that he could join the Demons in the following season. He was equally home at full back, centre half back, centre half forward, in a pocket or as a pinch hitter in the ruck. Played full back in the 1959 and 1960 premiership sides and held down a back pocket in 1964. A regular Victorian representative, Johnson captained his team in 1969. Bryan Kenneally 26.03.1942 180 cm 78.5 kg 1959-69 171 games 68 goals Jumper No. 22 Position Half Forward Flank - a long kicking utility player who came into the side as a raw 17 year old in 1959. Kenneally had two/three premierships and close to 100 games under his belt and was deputy vice captain by the time he played in the 1964 Grand Final. Took over Barassi's ruck roving role in 1965 and represented Victoria in 1967. John Lord 02.04.1937 188 cm 92.5 kg 1957-65 132 games 80 goals Jumper No. 4 Position Forward Pocket - Lord was a strong tall key forward who played in four premiership teams - 1957, 1959, 1960 and 1964. After a season interrupted by a shoulder injury incurred in the 1963 finals campaign, Lord made it back into the team for the finals of 1964. Bernie Massey 12.08.1939 184 cm 85 kg 1960-67 99 games 0 goals Jumper No. 37 Position Full Back - a tremendous close checking defender whose strength at full back meant that opposing full forwards were always in for a tough time when they came up against the Demons. Once turned up to training sporting a moustache and was promptly ordered to shave it off by coach Smith. Peter McLean 06.05.1941 187 cm 85.5 kg 1964-5 28 games 2 goals Jumper No. 36 Position 20th Man - a strong defender, McLean spent the entire 1964 grand final on the bench. Left the Demons for Carlton at the end of 1965 and went on to sit on the bench for the Blues in their 1968 premiership win. Brian "Doc" Roet 02.11.1939 187 cm 82.5 kg 1961-5, 1968 88 games 1 goal Jumper No. 18 Position Centre Half Back - recruited from the amateur ranks in 1961 Roet stepped straight into the all important key defensive role, a position in which he starred for a number of seasons. Roet combined his football with a medical career and was one last of those able to combine that profession with football. Returned for a final season in 1968 after missing two years through overseas commitments. John Townsend 16.06.1943 171 cm 70 kg 1962-72, 153 games 182 goals Jumper No. 16 Position Forward Pocket - a brilliant rover from St Pats Sale whose career peaked in the 1964 finals when he kicked five goals in the semi for a best on ground performance and another three in the grand final. Won the club best and fairest in 1965 but suffered a knee injury late in the season and this marred his career until 1969 when he was again club champion. Barry Vagg 21.01.1943 182 cm 73 kg 1962-69, 115 games 132 goals Jumper No. 32 Position Half Forward Flank - recruited from Shepparton in 1962, Vagg was a clever and elusive will-o-the-wisp flanker who often bobbed up to kick an all important goal and was a consistent goal kicker for the club in the 1960's. Don Williams 03.11.1935 182 cm 79.5 kg 1959-60, 1964-68, 205 games 5 goals Jumper No. 35 Position Centre - a brilliant half back flanker from Elsternwick Amateurs, Williams played in the 1955-7 premierships sides but was so miffed at being played on the bench in the winning grand final of 1959 that he moved to West Perth before returning to coach at Sale in 1963. Returned to play in the centre of the ground in the 1964 premiership team before a knee injury ended his career in 1968. Graham Wise 13.10.1942 188 cm 82.5 kg 1963-66, 40 games 1 goal Jumper No. 23 Position Ruck - a shortish ruckman Wise took time to settle into the tempo of League football but was a valuable contributor in the Demons' following division in its premiership season. Left the club after 1966 to coach in Tasmania.

ANNIVERSARY - THE LAST PREMIERSHIP by Whispering Jack The rivalry between Melbourne and Collingwood has always been strong but in the middle of the twentieth century it was a t fever pitch. It ended with the 1964 Grand Final played exactly 46 years ago today. The two clubs finished first and second respectively at the end of the 1964 home and away season but it took a last minute Hassa Mann snap from a pocket at Hawthorn in the second last round to deliver the Demons' place in the finals for the eleventh consecutive year. The Demons demolished the Magpies by 89-points in the second semi-final and was firm favourite to beat the same opponent in the Grand Final. A dour Collingwood was a more difficult opponent in the big game. They trailled by a point at quarter time and held a two point lead at half time. Melbourne grabbed the lead in the "premiership quarter", keeping the Pies goalless to lead by eleven points at the final break. The Magpies bounced back in the final term and Ray Gabelich's long run and goal that seemed to last an eternity put the Collingwood in front by two points. In a dramatic finale, Melbourne's back pocket player Neil "Froggy" Crompton following his man up the ground and kicked the goal that put his team in front. There was more excitement in a frenetic nail-biting finish as Demon full forward Barry Bourke took a saving mark in defence. The siren sounded and Melbourne had won its twelfth and last (to date) premiership. Frank "Bluey" Adams and skipper Ron Barassi Junior who had been involved in exactly half that number had played their last games in the red and blue. Adams retired and Barassi crossed to Carlton in the off season. It was the end of an era. Melbourne 2.6.18 5.7.37 7.10.52 8.16.64 Collingwood 2.5.17 5.9.39 5.11.41 8.12.60 Goals Melbourne Townsend Lord 2 Bourke Crompton Mann Collingwood Gabelich Waters 2 Bone Dalton Steer Tuddenham Best Melbourne Adams Dixon "Tassie" Johnson Wise H Mann Williams Collingwood Hill Steer Bone Potter Henderson Dalton Crowd 102, 469 at the MCG Field Umpire Noel Brophy THE TEAMS MELBOURNE Backs Crompton Massey "Tassie" Johnson Half backs Anderson Roet Davis Centreline Dixon Williams Adams Half forwards Kenneally Jacobs Vagg Forwards Lord Bourke Townsend Followers Wise Barassi (captain) Mann Reserves McLean Emselle Coach Norm Smith COLLINGWOOD Backs Reeves Potter Steer Half backs Hill Mahon Wright Centreline Watt Henderson Chapman Half forwards Tuddenham McLean Norman Forwards Waters Graham Dalton Followers Gabelich (captain) Rose Bone Reserves Urquhart Turner Coach Bob Rose THE DEMONS OF 1964 Coach: Norm Smith 21.11.1915 183 cm 82.5 kg - the greatest coach of them all, Smith started his career the hard way playing 40 reserves games before breaking into the Melbourne senior side in 1935. He played 211 games and kicked 540 goals and played a big part in the club winning three flags in a row from 1939 to 1941 retiring from the club after the 1948 premiership win over Essendon to captain coach Fitzroy. He returned to coach the Demons in 1952 and gradually developed one of the most outstanding teams in League history coaching them to 11 consecutive finals appearances, six premierships and eight grand finals. Smith was sacked in sensational circumstances in mid 1965 but was reinstated and coached the club to the end of 1967. In all, he was involved as a player and coach with ten of Melbourne's twelve premierships. Captain: Ron Barassi 27.02.1935 178 cm 83.5 kg 1953-64 204 games 195 goals Jumper No. 31 Position Ruck Rover - Melbourne's most famous player who may not have had the most talent but possessed a fierce determination and will to win. The son of a former Demon player of the 30's who lost his life in World War Two, Barassi was taken under the wing of coach Norm Smith. He began as a half forward flanker but soon revolutionised the game in the position of ruck rover. He established himself as a leading personality in modern football's most successful side and was appointed captain in 1960 winning the club champion award in 1961 and in the premiership year - 1964. The grand final win in that year was his sixth premiership and last game for the club. Barassi broke the hearts of many young Demon supporters when he transferred to Carlton at the start of 1965 to take on the role of captain coach. He became a successful coach with the rejuvenated Blues and then the Kangaroos before returning for a less than successful stint as coach of Melbourne in the eighties. Recently left the Swans' Board and is back in the fold as a Demon supporter. Vice Captain: Harold "Hassa" Mann 10.10.1940 177 cm 76 kg 1959-68 178 games 193 goals Jumper No. 29 Position Rover - came to Melbourne from Rutherglen as a half forward flanker but soon found a niche in the centre. Mann played in premiership teams in his first two years at the club and won the Bluey Truscott Medal as club champion in 1962 and 1963. Norm Smith switched his star centreman to a roving role in the 1964 finals series and the move came up trumps as the prolific ball winner was named in the best three players in both games. When Barassi left to captain-coach at Carlton, Mann was appointed skipper and won another best and fairest in 1967. Frank "Bluey" Adams 12.06.1935 168 cm 72 kg 1953-64 164 games 180 goals Jumper No. 6 Position Wing - from Echuca, Adams played in six winning grand final sides and was one of the fastest players in the competition having made the final of the Stawell Gift and the Bendigo 1000. He was involved in a famous collision with Collingwood winger Des Healey in the 1955 grand final. Adams retired at the end of 1964 and became a TV commentator and also joined the MFC committee. Tony Anderson 31.01.42 183 cm 82.5 kg 1963-69 75 games 2 goals Jumper No. 11 Position Half back Flank - recruited from University Blacks, Anderson was a courageous defender who represented Victoria in his club's premiership year. Barry Bourke 14.09.1943 179 cm 77 kg 1963-73 175 games 154 goals Jumper No. 14 Position Full Forward - originally from Neerim South, Bourke stated with Melbourne Under 19's and broke into League football in 1963 when he was the team's leading goal kicker. Over the years was a versatile player and later in his career was an excellent back pocket. Represented his state in 1966, 1969 and 1970. Neil "Froggy" Crompton 16.08.1937 178 cm 78.5 kg 1957-66 99 games 24 goals Jumper No. 5 Position Back Pocket - a reliable back pocket player from Ormond, the late "Froggy" Crompton became famous for following his man downfield and kicking the winning goal in the 1964 grand final. He was also a tremendous batsman for his state. Frank Davis 25.08.1944 178 cm 72.5 kg 168 games 2 goals Jumper No. 40 Position Half Back Flank - a first year player who broke into the side and acquitted himself well for one who was so inexperienced. David went on to represent his state and captain the club from 1970-2. Brian Dixon 20.05.1936 175 cm 70 kg 1954-68 252 games 41 goals Jumper No. 9 Position Wing - a prolific possession winner for the Demons for over a decade in its most successful era, Dixon joined the club from Melbourne High School in 1954 winning the club champion trophy in 1960 and Tassie Medal for best and fairest in the 1961 National Carnival. Dixon played in five premiership victories for Melbourne and went on to become a State parliamentarian and coached at North Melbourne. Ken Emselle 17.06.1944 174 cm 73 kg 1962-69 97 games 109 goals Jumper No. 10 Position 19th Man - a clever and talented rover whose father Richie was back pocket in three successive Melbourne premiership teams from 1939, Emselle worked his way through the ranks having started with the Under 19's and started on the bench in the 1964 grand final. Graeme Jacobs 06.03.1944 189 cm 84.5 kg 1964-67 36 games 49 goals Jumper No. 20 Position Centre Half Forward - Jacobs was a talented 20 year old from East Burwood who walked into the club asking for a game and came into the side in its premiership year as a forward/ruckman and proved a dangerous customer around the goals. Was cleared to the Swans over what was believed to be a disciplinary matter. Bob "Tassie" Johnson 02.12.1937 189 cm 89 kg 1959-69 202 games 20 goals Jumper No. 8 Position Back Pocket - a long kicking defender originally from North Launceston, "Tassie" stood out of football in 1958 so that he could join the Demons in the following season. He was equally home at full back, centre half back, centre half forward, in a pocket or as a pinch hitter in the ruck. Played full back in the 1959 and 1960 premiership sides and held down a back pocket in 1964. A regular Victorian representative, Johnson captained his team in 1969. Bryan Kenneally 26.03.1942 180 cm 78.5 kg 1959-69 171 games 68 goals Jumper No. 22 Position Half Forward Flank - a long kicking utility player who came into the side as a raw 17 year old in 1959. Kenneally had two/three premierships and close to 100 games under his belt and was deputy vice captain by the time he played in the 1964 Grand Final. Took over Barassi's ruck roving role in 1965 and represented Victoria in 1967. John Lord 02.04.1937 188 cm 92.5 kg 1957-65 132 games 80 goals Jumper No. 4 Position Forward Pocket - Lord was a strong tall key forward who played in four premiership teams - 1957, 1959, 1960 and 1964. After a season interrupted by a shoulder injury incurred in the 1963 finals campaign, Lord made it back into the team for the finals of 1964. Bernie Massey 12.08.1939 184 cm 85 kg 1960-67 99 games 0 goals Jumper No. 37 Position Full Back - a tremendous close checking defender whose strength at full back meant that opposing full forwards were always in for a tough time when they came up against the Demons. Once turned up to training sporting a moustache and was promptly ordered to shave it off by coach Smith. Peter McLean 06.05.1941 187 cm 85.5 kg 1964-5 28 games 2 goals Jumper No. 36 Position 20th Man - a strong defender, McLean spent the entire 1964 grand final on the bench. Left the Demons for Carlton at the end of 1965 and went on to sit on the bench for the Blues in their 1968 premiership win. Brian "Doc" Roet 02.11.1939 187 cm 82.5 kg 1961-5, 1968 88 games 1 goal Jumper No. 18 Position Centre Half Back - recruited from the amateur ranks in 1961 Roet stepped straight into the all important key defensive role, a position in which he starred for a number of seasons. Roet combined his football with a medical career and was one last of those able to combine that profession with football. Returned for a final season in 1968 after missing two years through overseas commitments. John Townsend 16.06.1943 171 cm 70 kg 1962-72, 153 games 182 goals Jumper No. 16 Position Forward Pocket - a brilliant rover from St Pats Sale whose career peaked in the 1964 finals when he kicked five goals in the semi for a best on ground performance and another three in the grand final. Won the club best and fairest in 1965 but suffered a knee injury late in the season and this marred his career until 1969 when he was again club champion. Barry Vagg 21.01.1943 182 cm 73 kg 1962-69, 115 games 132 goals Jumper No. 32 Position Half Forward Flank - recruited from Shepparton in 1962, Vagg was a clever and elusive will-o-the-wisp flanker who often bobbed up to kick an all important goal and was a consistent goal kicker for the club in the 1960's. Don Williams 03.11.1935 182 cm 79.5 kg 1959-60, 1964-68, 205 games 5 goals Jumper No. 35 Position Centre - a brilliant half back flanker from Elsternwick Amateurs, Williams played in the 1955-7 premierships sides but was so miffed at being played on the bench in the winning grand final of 1959 that he moved to West Perth before returning to coach at Sale in 1963. Returned to play in the centre of the ground in the 1964 premiership team before a knee injury ended his career in 1968. Graham Wise 13.10.1942 188 cm 82.5 kg 1963-66, 40 games 1 goal Jumper No. 23 Position Ruck - a shortish ruckman Wise took time to settle into the tempo of League football but was a valuable contributor in the Demons' following division in its premiership season. Left the club after 1966 to coach in Tasmania.

HEPPELL (The Return of Martin Heppell) by Randy M. M. Savage The name Heppell is back in the football news these days thanks to a young defender turned midfielder Dyson Heppell who has been turning it on at Under 18 level. This year Dyson Heppell has won NAB AFL All-Australian team honours, was Victoria Country's Most Valuable Player, shared Morrish Medal honours and turned in some matchwinning performances for the Gippsland Power in the TAC Cup Finals. We're going to hear a lot more about him in the future but there's already another Heppell whose name has been indelibly inscribed in the book that details the passing parade of VFL/AFL footballers - former Demon and Saint, Martin Heppell after who the most valuable player award for Demonland/Demonology in Forum Footy matches against Saintsational is named. After less than extensive research into the matter (none) the mystery of whether the two Heppells are related remains unresolved but one thing is clear. The Demons will not be able to claim the promising youngster under the AFL's father/son rule, mainly due to the fact that even if this was their true relationship, the elder Heppell's career games total is well short of the number of games to assure Dyson of qualification because Martin only represented the Melbourne Football Club twice in his brief career. Heppell didn't exactly burst onto the AFL scene with a flourish. Born on 14 November, 1974, he was just 18 years of age when picked up by the Saints straight out of Carey Grammar at # 32 in the 1993 Pre season Draft. The 178cm tall youngster played three senior games in his debut season and managed only two in the following year before he was delisted and left to drift without a football club over the summer. The Melbourne Football Club threw Martin Heppell a lifeline and picked him up at # 28 in the 1995 Pre Season Draft. He was given the number 38 guernsey worn previously by David Neitz who had upgraded to the number 9 but while Neita went on to break the club games record and finish with over 300 to his credit, Heppell was never destined for such greatness. He managed just two games in 1995 - the round 4 & 5 clashes against Footscray and West Coast. The Dees lost both of them and Heppell failed to make double figures in disposals in either match. He managed just four kicks and four handballs on debut and just three kicks in his finale a week later. After that Heppell's AFL days were confined to the reserves and by the end of 1995, it was a case of "career over" for Melbourne's Heritage Number 1160. The man who once described his ideal weekend as "going to a punk rock gig with 10 mates and 10 playmates" was not finished with the red and blue just yet. He went on to play in a premiership team at Norwood in the SANFL before landing a coaching job with the Box Hill Hawks reserves. Heppell's dedication to the task, his enjoyment of the game at a level below the elite and his association with both St.Kilda and Melbourne made him the natural choice when it came down to picking a player to bear the name of the Demonland/Demonology MVP award. That, and the fact that his favourite nightspot is The Espy and his favourite band is Goldfinger. Who? * The Demonland/Demonology team kicks off its Footy Forum season on Sunday 10 October 2010 at Victoria Park at 12 noon and prospective players, coaches, assistants and supporters are all welcome. You don't have to be as good a player as Martin Heppell and there's no training although it's recommended that you stay off the smokes and the turps for 24 6 hours before the game. For more details, see here.

HEPPELL (The Return of Martin Heppell) by Randy M. M. Savage The name Heppell is back in the football news these days thanks to a young defender turned midfielder Dyson Heppell who has been turning it on at Under 18 level. This year Dyson Heppell has won NAB AFL All-Australian team honours, was Victoria Country's Most Valuable Player, shared Morrish Medal honours and turned in some matchwinning performances for the Gippsland Power in the TAC Cup Finals. We're going to hear a lot more about him in the future but there's already another Heppell whose name has been indelibly inscribed in the book that details the passing parade of VFL/AFL footballers - former Demon and Saint, Martin Heppell after who the most valuable player award for Demonland/Demonology in Forum Footy matches against Saintsational is named. After less than extensive research into the matter (none) the mystery of whether the two Heppells are related remains unresolved but one thing is clear. The Demons will not be able to claim the promising youngster under the AFL's father/son rule, mainly due to the fact that even if this was their true relationship, the elder Heppell's career games total is well short of the number of games to assure Dyson of qualification because Martin only represented the Melbourne Football Club twice in his brief career. Heppell didn't exactly burst onto the AFL scene with a flourish. Born on 14 November, 1974, he was just 18 years of age when picked up by the Saints straight out of Carey Grammar at # 32 in the 1993 Pre season Draft. The 178cm tall youngster played three senior games in his debut season and managed only two in the following year before he was delisted and left to drift without a football club over the summer. The Melbourne Football Club threw Martin Heppell a lifeline and picked him up at # 28 in the 1995 Pre Season Draft. He was given the number 38 guernsey worn previously by David Neitz who had upgraded to the number 9 but while Neita went on to break the club games record and finish with over 300 to his credit, Heppell was never destined for such greatness. He managed just two games in 1995 - the round 4 & 5 clashes against Footscray and West Coast. The Dees lost both of them and Heppell failed to make double figures in disposals in either match. He managed just four kicks and four handballs on debut and just three kicks in his finale a week later. After that Heppell's AFL days were confined to the reserves and by the end of 1995, it was a case of "career over" for Melbourne's Heritage Number 1160. The man who once described his ideal weekend as "going to a punk rock gig with 10 mates and 10 playmates" was not finished with the red and blue just yet. He went on to play in a premiership team at Norwood in the SANFL before landing a coaching job with the Box Hill Hawks reserves. Heppell's dedication to the task, his enjoyment of the game at a level below the elite and his association with both St.Kilda and Melbourne made him the natural choice when it came down to picking a player to bear the name of the Demonland/Demonology MVP award. That, and the fact that his favourite nightspot is The Espy and his favourite band is Goldfinger. Who? * The Demonland/Demonology team kicks off its Footy Forum season on Sunday 10 October 2010 at Victoria Park at 12 noon and prospective players, coaches, assistants and supporters are all welcome. You don't have to be as good a player as Martin Heppell and there's no training although it's recommended that you stay off the smokes and the turps for 24 6 hours before the game. For more details, see here.

Games MFC 2010 21 Career 61 Goals MFC 2010 1 Career 2

Games MFC 2010 6 Career 133 Goals MFC 2010 10 Career 89 Games CSFC 2010 15 Goals CSFC 2010 42

Sorry but I got thoroughly sick of reading the negative title to this thread so I dumped it in favour of the new one. That I did but it's always a good thing to emphasize a point.

Jack Viney's a Hawthorn supporter because his dad coached there when he was younger.

Games MFC 2010 16 Career 84 Goals MFC 2010 19 Career 86 Games CSFC 2010 5 Goals CSFC 2010 11

Games MFC 2010 3 Career 3 Goals MFC 2010 0 Career 0 Games CSFC 2010 5 Goals CSFC 2010 2

Don't worry. I credit our football department for being smart enough not to take the slightest notice of a thread on a fan site entitled, "Fev a Dee, Ridiculous or Just Crazy?"

Games MFC 2010 15 Career 18 Goals MFC 2010 10 Career 12 Games CSFC 2010 5 Goals CSFC 2010 8

CANNON POWER - TAC Cup Preliminary Final Day by Melon 22 Game One: Dandenong Stingrays v Calder Cannons In a day full of surprise results the first surprise of the day for me was finding the Eastern Freeway completely blocked at Bulleen Road forcing me to miss the first quarter and a bit of the Dandenong Stingrays v Calder Cannons game. When I did finally get to Visy Park, I was entertained by very high standard with game some very talented players on display. Dandenong was on top early with its run from defence and its precise kicking was very impressive, while Calder looked a little a bit outclassed with Dandenong’s defence well on top. At half time Dandenong had a handy lead of 17 points and, after Luke Parker kicked the first goal of the second half, Dandenong looked to have the running and appeared to be well on top of Calder. However, Calder regained its composure and kicked a couple of goals in quick succession, the entire momentum of game changed with the Cannons making all the play and the Stingrays starting to miss targets. Calder went on to take a 8 point lead at ¾ time. The final quarter was a continuation of the third with Calder kicking away with a Tom Lynch consolation goal the only major of the quarter for Graham Yeats' Stingrays who will be bitterly disappointed not to have made their third consecutive Grand Final. One of the highlights of the match was the duel between prospective first round draft picks Matthew Watson and Tom Lynch in the second half. While Lynch is the more athletic player, Watson made an impact on the contest to either get an important tap or make enough body contact to at least break even and to allow his teammates to come in for support. Lynch started to push higher up the field the more Dandenong struggled to get the ball out of defence. Watson allowed him to run up the field and this gave the Cannons player the space to become an outlet for his team and allowing him to use his penetrating left foot to set attacks. Late in the game Lynch was able to take a couple of contested marks on Watson and to kick a goal in what was a very even contest where both players had their moments of brilliance and showed why they are so highly rated. Dandenong’s Luke Parker was playing well until he was involved in a nasty head clash early in the last quarter and was unable to return to the field. Up until that point, he was important in the stoppages with his bullocking work and clean hands around the contests. His ability to get forward and kick a goal was sorely missed in the last quarter by Dandenong and his absence was one of the reasons for a disappointing fade out. The other player who impressed me but who wasn’t named in Dandenong's best was Jake Batchelor who was one of the few players who continued to run even when Calder was well on top. While he isn’t the most skilled player he gave everything to get his team back in the game. For Calder, I was very impressed by defender Cameron Guthrie after half time when he provided some great run out of defence. His ability to win the contest and run off his opponent was crucial to turning the tide of the match towards his team's favour. Luke Mitchell, the power forward for Calder didn’t have a big influence on the day but he continued to present all day and worked hard for his team which is one of his main strengths of his game and was important for the Cannons' structure. The Bulldog-bound duo of Wallis and Liberatore were good without being outstanding. They were outshone by their Vic Metro teammate in Dion Prestia who got his team going and was Calder’s best player on the day. Calder Cannons 2.2.14 4.6.30 9.9.63 13.13.91 Dandenong Stingrays 4.3.27 7.5.47 8.7.55 9.10.64 Goals Calder Cannons Schroder 3 Kefford 2 Sullivan 2 Prestia 2 Mitchell Meli Guthrie Williams Dandenong Stingrays Parker 2 Curren Lynch Elton Buntine Hallahan Tagg Treloar Best Calder Cannons Prestia Guthrie Sullivan Sheridan Ellis Williams Dandenong Stingrays Elton Shiel Amalfi Treloar Gent Lynch Game Two: Oakleigh Chargers v Gippsland Power The Oakleigh and Gippsland match had very similar storyline to the first game. The Chargers started the stronger of the two sides and looked like the team most likely with more talent on the park than Gippsland. Potential first rounder Andrew Gaff and Tom Schneider were running rampant with Gaff’s kicking into forward line particular damaging. Gaff was seemingly running on his own in the first half and he was ably supported by Max Otten, Sam Crocker and Alex Browne who were controlling the back half for Oakleigh. After half time though it became the Dyson Heppell show who through his dominance got the other Gippsland boys involved. Jed Lamb started to get busy and Tim Northe and Dean McDonald (who played for Casey Scorpions during the year) kicked important goals to steal a win for the Power in what was a major upset. Morrish Medallist Heppell was brilliant. His was one of the most dominant displays by one player in match that I have seen; he finished with 40 disposals, 9 clearances, 8 marks, 11 inside 50’s and 1 goal. What makes these statistics even more impressive was the fact the nearest Gippsland player had only 20 possessions. But it wasn’t just the quantity of the Heppell’s possessions- it was the timing, whenever Gippsland needed a mark or clearance Heppell would be there to make it happen and it was awesome to watch. Lamb has tremendous pace and skill but it was his tenacity and his attack on the ball that impressed me the most. The desperation for the contest he showed in the last quarter was something that I hadn’t seen from him before. While his finals campaign has been okay, he is a big time player and I am looking forward to watching him on the big stage of the Grand Final. The other player from the Power that impressed me was MacDonald who was competitive across half forward. He has a penetrating right foot kick which he used affectively for two goals. For Oakleigh the clear for me was Schneider, even though he strangely wasn’t even named in the official best he picked up 40 possessions and was the one player in the last quarter who was uncompromising at the contest for Oakleigh when some of his team mates had dropped off. While his disposal isn’t the best, his ability to get the footy isn’t in doubt and he capped off a wonderful finals series where he had 44, 32 and 40 possessions in three games. Gaff’s first half was great switching between a midfield and forward role he was an important link man and got a lot of the ball. But alarmingly when the game started to turn in Gippsland’s favour he went missing and wasn’t able to influence the contest enough. I still thought it was his best game of the finals campaign and to finish with 30 touches in a preliminary final is good performance. Otten was very important for Oakleigh in the first half with his composure and run off half back but like a lot of his team mates his influence after half time was diminished. So it's on to the grand final where two unlikely opponents are pitted against each other. At the end of the regular season Gippsland was 6th and Calder 7th. Oakleigh Chargers 4.4.28 8.6.54 10.8.68 14.9.93 Gippsland Power 2.5.17 4.8.32 8.13.61 14.20.104 Goals Oakleigh Chargers Johnson 4 Gordon 2 Crocker Batsanis Gaff Tomlinson Karnezis Tyson Schneider Michie Gippsland Power Wyatt 2 MacDonald 2 Northe 2 Deery 2 Hoghton Bugg Smith Salton Heppell Lamb Best Oakleigh Chargers Cassidy Johnson Gordon Crocker Gaff Harris Gippsland Power Heppell Lamb Northe Wyatt Deery Ross TAC Cup Match Report: Calder Cannons vs. Dandenong Stingrays TAC Cup Match Report: Oakleigh Chargers vs. Gippsland Power

Games MFC 2010 21 Career 80 Goals MFC 2010 2 Career 14

Games MFC 2010 22 Career 92 Goals MFC 2010 9 Career 38

Games MFC 2010 13 Career 51 Goals MFC 2010 0 Career 1 Games CSFC 2010 7 Goals CSFC 2010 0

THE WEIGHT OF NUMBERS by KC from Casey The season ended on Saturday for the Casey Scorpions in the VFL Second Semi Final when they lost to the Northern Bullants by 11 points in an enthralling, hard fought encounter at TEAC Oval. The Scorpions had beaten the Bullants twice during the home and away season but a number of forced changes left Casey short on experience but by no means short on endeavour or fighting spirit. Indeed, the team's gritty fight back in tough conditions might have ended differently had everything gone right during the tense latter stages of the game but in the final analysis, the weight of numbers won out. The numbers that really mattered of course were the numbers on the scoreboard that showed the Northern Bullants had scored 10.11.71 to Casey Scorpions 9.6.60 at the end of the game. The Bullants deserved the victory as they won statistically in most areas, particularly in the ruck hit outs and at the stoppages where most games are won, especially those played in the trying conditions that prevailed on Saturday. The wet, wild and woolly weather that hit the State of Victoria overnight created a ground that was soft and muddy underfoot with a gluepot in the centre. The gusting winds that favoured the end to which the Ants kicked in what turned out to be a long opening quarter also had a significant influence in a game that turned out to be a hard slog for both sides. The Scorpions worked hard in the early going and went goal for goal with their more experienced opponents. Brad Miller kicked their first and, when James Wall scored from a free, Casey were looking confident in the way they were holding their ground. A long 70 metre bomb with the breeze from Bullant Joe Anderson was required to put a dent in that confidence and some inspired play from the Carlton contingent led by the dominance of ruckman Shaun Hampson, the early sharpshooting of Irishman Setanta O'hAilpin and the hard in an under work of Brock McLean turned the game around. Two goals deep into an opening quarter that lasted almost 38 minutes gave the Bullants what turned out to be a significant twenty point lead at the first break. Casey worked hard to break back into the game in the second term but for all of the hard work of Ben MacReadie, Tim Mohr and Matt Fieldsend, the gap was narrowed by only one point to half time. By then the Scorps had suffered another blow losing key defender Tom McNamara for the day with an ankle injury. When the Bullants booted two goals in the opening moments of the third quarter, things were looking grim for the Scorpions and it was a credit to the persistence of Brad Gotch's young Scorpions team that they would not concede another goal in almost a full half of football from that point. It was the younger brigade that led the revival. Michael Riseley started things moving for the Scorpions when he accepted a pass, played on and slotted through a goal from a difficult angle but while Casey attacked, the deficit remained at 25 points through to the final change after shots at goal from Miller and Sam Blease both went wide of the big sticks. Utility Wade Lees who has only a handful of games to his credit was another youngster who was showing great endeavour. First gamer, Gus Patti, an undersized ruckman from the Dandenong Stingrays was working in tandem with Tim Mohr who spent most of the season in defence when not hampered by a shoulder injury. They toiled manfully and showed great heart against the much taller Hampson and, while they did not win the hit outs they put their bodies in at the clinches to lift the side with their tireless efforts. Ryan Creed goaled from a snap to open up proceedings in the final term. The Ants were now completely on the defensive but the Scorps pushed through for a goal from the hardworking Matt Fieldsend, who was playing a fantastic game. The margin had been reduced to 13 points at the 12 minute mark and the game was winnable. The Bullants mounted a counterattack and while they were held to a few points, the clock was winding down. A last desperate lunge produced a Rhys Healey goal but it proved all too late and time eventually took its full toll. In the end, the Northern Bullants had the numbers, especially in terms of experience with their AFL contingent having an aggregate of 567 games under their belts while the Casey Scorpions could only muster a mere 217. The Scorpions had been hit hard by injury, their ruck stocks decimated by the loss of Paul Johnson (shoulder) and Michael Newton (calf). Addam Maric's ball getting ability was sorely missed after he was ruled out with a groin injury and livewire Austin Wonaeamirri was a late withdrawal. Their places were filled by a quartet of players who would have imagined their seasons were over a fortnight ago when the reserves lost their final round match at Werribee. Between them Patti, Mitch Dowse, Will Petropoulos and Luke Tynan had less than 10 senior VFL games to their names but they performed more than creditably as did young Riseley who was playing only his third senior game with the club. The experience gained by the younger contingent should be invaluable for the club next year when we should see the return, among others, of injured skipper Kyle Matthews, interstate representative Michael Stockdale (who led the early Liston Trophy voting before his knee injury) and boom recruit Scott Simpson who was restricted to just one senior game this year. The spirit displayed by the young Scorpions and the example they set under trying circumstances will hold them in good stead as they plan their campaign for season 2011. Casey did manage one consolation from a season of great promise on Liston Trophy night when it was named the VFL's best conducted club. Perhaps next year, it will have the full weight of numbers on its side and then go on to win the big one. The Casey Scorpions were down to only seven Melbourne listed players, two of them rookies and one (Sam Blease) coming off very limited preparation this year. The result against the Northern Bullants who fielded a team with more than double Casey's AFL experience was an inevitable loss but the closeness of the result was a testament to the Scorpions' determination and fighting spirit. HOW THE DEMONS FARED Daniel Bell - played well as a hard, defensive midfielder in a team that was being beaten in the ruck. His approach to the game and demeanor both on and off the field in a difficult year was a credit to the man whose career prospects were cruelled by injuries over recent years. Sam Blease - had limited impact and needs a full preseason to help kickstart his fledgling career. Kyle Cheney - toiled manfully under pressure in defence and was probably the best of the Demons. Rhys Healey - not the best of days but had one or two bright spots. Danny Hughes - was needed to get goals but didn't get any on the day. Missed a couple of shots, one from close in. Tom McNamara - kicked a goal in the first quarter and then went down back but got injured. Brad Miller - double and triple teamed and was made to work hard for his two goals. Casey Scorpions 3.1.19 5.5.35 6.6.42 9.6.60 Northern Bullants 6.3.39 8.6.54 10.7.67 10.11.71 Goals Casey Scorpions Miller 2 Creed Fieldsend Healey McNamara MacReadie Riseley Wall Northern Bullants O'hAilpin 3 Anderson Fisher Hampson Johnson McLean Saad Thomas Best Casey Scorpions MacReadie Fieldsend Lees Riseley Patti Mohr Northern Bullants McLean McCorkell Johnson Dare Morgan Arrowsmith 2010 VFL TEAM OF THE YEAR Backs Michael Stockdale (Casey) Peter Faulks (Williamstown) Adam Iacobucci (Nth Bullants) Half backs Michael Hibberd (Frankston) Sam Pleming (Port Melb) Cameron Richardson (Nth Ballarat) Centreline Ben Davies (Williamstown) Brett Johnson (Williamstown) Sam Power (Coburg) Half forwards David Swallow (Gold Coast) Callum Sinclair (Port Melb) Stephen Clifton (Nth Ballarat) Forwards Zac Smith (Gold Coast) Matthew Little (Williamstown) Shane Valenti (Port Melb) Rucks Orren Stephenson (Nth Ballarat) Myles Sewell (Nth Ballarat) Ed Curnow (Box Hill) Interchange Russell Gabriel (Frankston) Dom Gleeson (Werribee) James Wall (Casey) Toby Pinwill (Port Melb) Jonathan Simpkin (Geelong) Ben Jolley (Williamstown) Coach Gerard Fitzgerald (Nth Ballarat)

THE WEIGHT OF NUMBERS by KC from Casey The season ended on Saturday for the Casey Scorpions in the VFL Second Semi Final when they lost to the Northern Bullants by 11 points in an enthralling, hard fought encounter at TEAC Oval. The Scorpions had beaten the Bullants twice during the home and away season but a number of forced changes left Casey short on experience but by no means short on endeavour or fighting spirit. Indeed, the team's gritty fight back in tough conditions might have ended differently had everything gone right during the tense latter stages of the game but in the final analysis, the weight of numbers won out. The numbers that really mattered of course were the numbers on the scoreboard that showed the Northern Bullants had scored 10.11.71 to Casey Scorpions 9.6.60 at the end of the game. The Bullants deserved the victory as they won statistically in most areas, particularly in the ruck hit outs and at the stoppages where most games are won, especially those played in the trying conditions that prevailed on Saturday. The wet, wild and woolly weather that hit the State of Victoria overnight created a ground that was soft and muddy underfoot with a gluepot in the centre. The gusting winds that favoured the end to which the Ants kicked in what turned out to be a long opening quarter also had a significant influence in a game that turned out to be a hard slog for both sides. The Scorpions worked hard in the early going and went goal for goal with their more experienced opponents. Brad Miller kicked their first and, when James Wall scored from a free, Casey were looking confident in the way they were holding their ground. A long 70 metre bomb with the breeze from Bullant Joe Anderson was required to put a dent in that confidence and some inspired play from the Carlton contingent led by the dominance of ruckman Shaun Hampson, the early sharpshooting of Irishman Setanta O'hAilpin and the hard in an under work of Brock McLean turned the game around. Two goals deep into an opening quarter that lasted almost 38 minutes gave the Bullants what turned out to be a significant twenty point lead at the first break. Casey worked hard to break back into the game in the second term but for all of the hard work of Ben MacReadie, Tim Mohr and Matt Fieldsend, the gap was narrowed by only one point to half time. By then the Scorps had suffered another blow losing key defender Tom McNamara for the day with an ankle injury. When the Bullants booted two goals in the opening moments of the third quarter, things were looking grim for the Scorpions and it was a credit to the persistence of Brad Gotch's young Scorpions team that they would not concede another goal in almost a full half of football from that point. It was the younger brigade that led the revival. Michael Riseley started things moving for the Scorpions when he accepted a pass, played on and slotted through a goal from a difficult angle but while Casey attacked, the deficit remained at 25 points through to the final change after shots at goal from Miller and Sam Blease both went wide of the big sticks. Utility Wade Lees who has only a handful of games to his credit was another youngster who was showing great endeavour. First gamer, Gus Patti, an undersized ruckman from the Dandenong Stingrays was working in tandem with Tim Mohr who spent most of the season in defence when not hampered by a shoulder injury. They toiled manfully and showed great heart against the much taller Hampson and, while they did not win the hit outs they put their bodies in at the clinches to lift the side with their tireless efforts. Ryan Creed goaled from a snap to open up proceedings in the final term. The Ants were now completely on the defensive but the Scorps pushed through for a goal from the hardworking Matt Fieldsend, who was playing a fantastic game. The margin had been reduced to 13 points at the 12 minute mark and the game was winnable. The Bullants mounted a counterattack and while they were held to a few points, the clock was winding down. A last desperate lunge produced a Rhys Healey goal but it proved all too late and time eventually took its full toll. In the end, the Northern Bullants had the numbers, especially in terms of experience with their AFL contingent having an aggregate of 567 games under their belts while the Casey Scorpions could only muster a mere 217. The Scorpions had been hit hard by injury, their ruck stocks decimated by the loss of Paul Johnson (shoulder) and Michael Newton (calf). Addam Maric's ball getting ability was sorely missed after he was ruled out with a groin injury and livewire Austin Wonaeamirri was a late withdrawal. Their places were filled by a quartet of players who would have imagined their seasons were over a fortnight ago when the reserves lost their final round match at Werribee. Between them Patti, Mitch Dowse, Will Petropoulos and Luke Tynan had less than 10 senior VFL games to their names but they performed more than creditably as did young Riseley who was playing only his third senior game with the club. The experience gained by the younger contingent should be invaluable for the club next year when we should see the return, among others, of injured skipper Kyle Matthews, interstate representative Michael Stockdale (who led the early Liston Trophy voting before his knee injury) and boom recruit Scott Simpson who was restricted to just one senior game this year. The spirit displayed by the young Scorpions and the example they set under trying circumstances will hold them in good stead as they plan their campaign for season 2011. Casey did manage one consolation from a season of great promise on Liston Trophy night when it was named the VFL's best conducted club. Perhaps next year, it will have the full weight of numbers on its side and then go on to win the big one. The Casey Scorpions were down to only seven Melbourne listed players, two of them rookies and one (Sam Blease) coming off very limited preparation this year. The result against the Northern Bullants who fielded a team with more than double Casey's AFL experience was an inevitable loss but the closeness of the result was a testament to the Scorpions' determination and fighting spirit. HOW THE DEMONS FARED Daniel Bell - played well as a hard, defensive midfielder in a team that was being beaten in the ruck. His approach to the game and demeanor both on and off the field in a difficult year was a credit to the man whose career prospects were cruelled by injuries over recent years. Sam Blease - had limited impact and needs a full preseason to help kickstart his fledgling career. Kyle Cheney - toiled manfully under pressure in defence and was probably the best of the Demons. Rhys Healey - not the best of days but had one or two bright spots. Danny Hughes - was needed to get goals but didn't get any on the day. Missed a couple of shots, one from close in. Tom McNamara - kicked a goal in the first quarter and then went down back but got injured. Brad Miller - double and triple teamed and was made to work hard for his two goals. Casey Scorpions 3.1.19 5.5.35 6.6.42 9.6.60 Northern Bullants 6.3.39 8.6.54 10.7.67 10.11.71 Goals Casey Scorpions Miller 2 Creed Fieldsend Healey McNamara MacReadie Riseley Wall Northern Bullants O'hAilpin 3 Anderson Fisher Hampson Johnson McLean Saad Thomas Best Casey Scorpions MacReadie Fieldsend Lees Riseley Patti Mohr Northern Bullants McLean McCorkell Johnson Dare Morgan Arrowsmith 2010 VFL TEAM OF THE YEAR Backs Michael Stockdale (Casey) Peter Faulks (Williamstown) Adam Iacobucci (Nth Bullants) Half backs Michael Hibberd (Frankston) Sam Pleming (Port Melb) Cameron Richardson (Nth Ballarat) Centreline Ben Davies (Williamstown) Brett Johnson (Williamstown) Sam Power (Coburg) Half forwards David Swallow (Gold Coast) Callum Sinclair (Port Melb) Stephen Clifton (Nth Ballarat) Forwards Zac Smith (Gold Coast) Matthew Little (Williamstown) Shane Valenti (Port Melb) Rucks Orren Stephenson (Nth Ballarat) Myles Sewell (Nth Ballarat) Ed Curnow (Box Hill) Interchange Russell Gabriel (Frankston) Dom Gleeson (Werribee) James Wall (Casey) Toby Pinwill (Port Melb) Jonathan Simpkin (Geelong) Ben Jolley (Williamstown) Coach Gerard Fitzgerald (Nth Ballarat)

Expect a presser in a few days to allow for the Mad Monday cobwebs to wear off.

McNamara goal off the ground. Casey Scorpions 3.1.19 Northern Bullants 4.2.26 The team (from ABC TV): Backs Panozza Cheney Taylor Half backs Lees Mohr Riseley Centreline Wall MacReadie Daniel Bell Half forwards Fieldsend Hughes McNamara Forwards McGough Miller Blease Followers Patti Nicholls Healy Interchange Creed M Dowse Petropoulos Tynan No Purdy out there for you WJ!

Why is that Prof? Behaviour related or you don't think he's good enough?

Correct, we have a Dee Man and a Deeman. They are entirely different people. Dee Man wrote the above lead article. Cheers

2010 SEASON REVIEW + PLAYER/TEAM STATS + PREDICTIONS by Kevin Hawkins (a.k.a. Dee man) Melbourne's ascendency up the ladder was inevitable. But no one expected it to be this inevitable. Who would have predicted the Demons would double their premiership points? Who would have predicted they would remain in the finals race until the final three rounds? Who would have predicted they would have three realistic All Australian candidates? And who would have predicted the debt would finally being demolished? While the eventual ladder placement of 12th may humble the team's efforts in attaining credibility and respect in the football sphere, so many positives can be drawn from the 2010 season. Brisbane coach Michael Voss hyped the Dees up as the league's next superpower, Rohan Connolly drew parallels with Geelong, while various commentators touted the young Demons as the 'next big thing'. Add those claims to a 73 point demolition of Sydney, two interstate victories, a Queens Birthday draw and extremely narrow losses to Collingwood and the Bulldogs and you couldn't be faulted for thinking the Dees were in premiership contention. Premiership, let alone finals, may be a word coach Dean Bailey chooses to avoid over the coming seasons, but perhaps success isn't such a distant reality after all. An assessment of Melbourne's best 22 reveals that all the vital ingredients are in place. In James Frawley Melbourne has a strong bodied negator with the capacity to run and create. In Mark Jamar Melbourne has a resilient ruckman that simply refuses to give in. In Aaron Davey Melbourne has a game breaking playmaker with exquisite skills and wicked pace. In Colin Sylvia Melbourne has a roving midfielder with the potential to dominate up forward. In Brad Green and Liam Jurrah Melbourne has two match-winning goal-scorers unafraid to take pack marks or attempt the impossible. Add spoiling superstar Jack Grimes, creative genius Jack Trengove, ball magnet Tom Scully, one percenter maestro Colin Garland, and tackling machine Jordie McKenzie to the experience of Jared Rivers, Cameron Bruce and Brent Moloney and suddenly you have yourself a brigade of fourteen premiership quality players. As for the other eight, I'll get to them later. The key question is, does Melbourne have the correct recipe? For the first two years of Bailey's tenure critics questioned the coach's seemingly non-existent game plan. The handball happy mindset he instilled in his players compromised the natural games of Bruce and Nathan Jones, both of whom suffered regular holding-the-ball attacks. Bailey's tendency to experiment with player positions meant key forward Lynden Dunn was often picking fights with superiors in the centre square, while promising defender-cum-ruckman Stefan Martin was wasting away at full forward. Furthermore the forward line lacked any form of structure and the midfielders found it impossible to find a way inside 50. Two years on and some of these holes have yet to be filled. Overuse of the handball continues to see players muck it up at half back, while Melbourne remains 14th in the league for inside 50s. Furthermore the problems begin in the centre square, where Demon midfielders have too often allowed their opposition's top on-baller rack up countless possessions. To leave Bailey's game plan at that, however, would be selling the coach short. This season fans have begun to recognise the merits of Bailey's run-and-carry style, in which fast breaks, corridor centric activity and isolated forward lines have produced great results. In the space of a year the Demon game has gone from bland to exciting; from dull to vibrant; from mediocre to… competitive. There is undoubtedly still fine tuning required. As it stands Melbourne tactically sets up with too much optimism. With loose players in front of the ball, rather than around the contest, Melbourne too often places themselves in a risky predicament, whereby an unsuccessful clearance inevitably lead to an opposition inside 50. The flip side is that a victory from the stoppage enables the team to run free and earn themselves fast flowing goal opportunities. On numerous occasions this plan has worked a charm; even the top teams have seen themselves momentarily outclasses by the Demons' young sprinters. Hence Bailey is left with three options; subtly tweak the plan to cater for skill errors, continue to groom the current team to win more of these 50/50s, or employ a couple more inside players to ensure the hard ball is won. Regardless of which option is chosen, careful recruitment is still be necessary. A second ruckman to support the intense load of Jamar – who remarkably survived the season despite frequently going solo – is mandatory. Paul Johnson is a class above VFL level, but has too many flaws to be the team's leading man in the event that Jamar goes down. He is certainly worth keeping on the list as depth, but Johnson's weak pack-marking, unreliable tap-work and uncoordinated ground level skills make him a liability in contested situations. Jamar is by no means an angel – his lifted status has evidently had no influence on his inclination to instinctively handpass – but as a big man the Russian has all the desirable characteristics. He is an intimidator in the middle, a potent forward option when rested, and a fearless contested marker. As the football department wait for the raw Max Gawn, the lanky Jack Fitzpatrick and the inaccurate Jake Spencer – should he be granted elevation – to develop into Jamar protogees, a competent backup must be found. Michael Newton – who amassed a solitary hit out in the final round – is evidently not the option. Some have argued that Melbourne should also chase a powerful full forward to compliment the likes of Green, Jurrah, Dunn, Matthew Bate, Ricky Petterd and Jack Watts. Personally I don't believe such a recruiting move is necessary for the six reasons I have just stated. The firepower of Green (55 goals in '10), Jurrah (41 goals in 17 games), Dunn (22.11 since his Round 12 recall; shadowing his 4.11 from Rounds 1-7), Bate (27 goals in '09), Petterd (31 goals from his last 24 games) and Watts (10 goals and 9 assists in '10) is enough to make any defence nervous, particularly once the likes of Austin Wonaeamirri (32 goals from 26 games), Jamie Bennell (4 goals against Port Adelaide), Colin Sylvia (5 goals against Richmond) and even Aaron Davey (119 goals from his first 4 seasons) are added to the equation. A bulkier Cale Morton is expected to assume a key position in the coming years, while the foreseeable improvement of Watts, Jurrah and Petterd gives supporters even less reason to worry. To top it all off Green – the Best and Fairest favourite and potential All Australian half-forward – is playing the best football of his career. So long as the club doesn't prematurely force him out in the same manner that saw 150 Heroes Adem Yze, Jeff White, Russell Robertson and James McDonald depart in an inglorious fashion, Green should still be going strong come Melbourne's next premiership window. With Gold Coast and Greater Western Sydney severely restricting the talent pool of the upcoming draft Melbourne has the luxury of not making any rash changes to its list. Disregarding the rookies, not too many others beside Brad Miller, Daniel Bell and McDonald – who have already been let go – may have to suffer the chop. McKenzie, stiff not to be nominated for the Rising Star let alone be one of the favourites, will certainly be upgraded to the senior list. Similarly Spencer may gain himself a spot if they club chooses to persist with that project. Unfortunately Danny Hughes – despite his promising AFL performances – will most likely be let go, as will Rhys Healey, John Meesen and one-time hero Newton. What to do on the senior list is a little more difficult ; a number of second-to-third years are still yet to make their mark on the AFL stage. Addam Maric, despite his apparent talent, looms as the most vulnerable. In his only appearance for the season the fast forward-cum-wingman amassed a handy 16 possessions as the Demons demolished Sydney. Unfortunately for him the captain returned the next week, leaving Maric to wallow in the VFL for the remainder of the year. With opposition clubs unlikely to be interested in an unproven performer from a bottom-eight team Melbourne's best option – should they desire more young talent – is to delist the contracted player and regain his services as a rookie. Ditto Tom McNamara. This enables the club to persist with these promising young players without sacrificing a position on the senior list. If they don't make it little has been lost; if they do make it their relocation to the seniors is easy. Martin may be a similar egg to add to that basket, however given that the big man is struggling to make an impact in the VFL seconds it might be time to bring an end to that experiment. Despite a struggle for selection Kyle Cheney and Neville Jetta should both hang on to their places, as should James Strauss and Sam Blease. Cheney and Jetta are unlikely to be world-beaters but they are the depth players you'd be reluctant to let go. The latter duo, on the other hand, have endured slow inceptions to the world of AFL, but big wraps follow these kids and the club would be foolish not to be patient with them. In the brutal competitive realm of the AFL patience is one of the most important virtues a coaching panel can possess. The unprecedented improvement of Frawley and Jamar – unquestionably the club's most important players – has been well documented. Just as important, however, has been the rise of Clint Bartram and Dunn. Both players sat at the crossroads at the commencement of 2010, but are now amongst Melbourne's most experienced and important contributors. Bartram goes unnoticed almost every week and his name is constantly vomited out by distrustful fans during weekly selection conversations, but the former top-5 Rising Star nominee has consistently done the job as a small defender. On the rebound his dash is occasionally let down by poor disposal, but from a defensive perspective he has not suffered many defeats. Dunn, meanwhile, has finally been settled into a position he belongs. Having mastered the art of tagging under Bailey's questionable apprenticeship Dunn has become a vital cog in the Demon attack, indicated by the late season sacking of Bate. His dual role as a defensive forward and attacking goalscorer is complimented by his fine marking skills and accurate long kicking. Dunn ensures each of his possessions count, but he still needs to find more of the ball. His dismal 4-possesion performance against Hawthorn late in the season corresponded with the beginning of Melbourne's losing streak; a better game from him that day may have kept the Demons in finals contention for another week. I blame it on the moustache. Patience has also been shown with the more experienced members of the team. At the halfway mark of the season I lamented that Bruce's "disposal has been dismal. Under pressure he is possibly the game's worst decision maker; whenever he gets the ball you can sense the collective fear of all Demon supporters." Eleven weeks on and I am eating my words. Bruce's brilliant second half of the season has placed him in contention for yet another high Bluey placing. Playing a predominantly more attacking role since the mid-season break Bruce has rediscovered the art of kicking and the delights of goalscoring. 6 goals in the last 10 games may not sound like much, but given that Bruce didn't kick a single major for seventeen straight games his return to the scoreboard has been welcome. While the masses were initially pleased with rumours that Gold Coast were chasing him such an outcome would be now a setback given Junior's recent departure. With the case studies of Frawley, Jamar, Bartram, Dunn and Bruce in mind it is important that faith is shown in Melbourne's next saviour, the one and only Jack Watts. From his 18 senior appearances the blonde key-position player has yet to set the world on fire, but reassuring performances against Port Adelaide (18 disposals, 2 goals), St Kilda (18 disposals and 9 marks), Fremantle (19 disposals and 7 marks), Brisbane (27 disposals) and Richmond (8 last quarter disposals) indicate that he's on the right track. Some critics have been quick to dismiss Watts as a wasted draft pick, but it is important for them to consider the recent breakthrough of comparable players such as Scott Gumbleton (#2 in 2006), Jack Riewoldt (#13 in 2006) Chris Dawes (#28 in 2006) and Jarrad Grant (#5 in 2007), and the slow development of Watts' fellow '08 draftees (Stephen Hill, Daniel Rich and Michael Hurley are the only three top-10 picks thus far to have justified their early selection). As I discussed earlier Melbourne has at least 14 'premiership-quality' players on their list. Improvement from eight to ten others in 2011 will make the difference between a bottom-eight 'competitor' and a top-eight contender. Bartram, Dunn and Nathan Jones are each one consistent season away from being walk-in regulars. Form and injuries interrupted the seasons of Matthew Warnock, Wonaeamirri, Morton, Petterd and Bate but these guys are simply too good not to be constituents in Melbourne's race for premiership glory. The latter three in particular are capable of best-on-ground performances and shouldn't be on the fringes for too much longer. Meanwhile relative newcomers Joel Macdonald, Rohan Bail and Bennell each enjoyed commendable seasons, but with the likes of Jordan Gysberts, Luke Tapscott, Blease, Strauss and Melbourne's prospective no.12 pick raring to go, they will be amongst the more vulnerable in 2011. Unlike Neale Daniher before him, Bailey is a fearless coach. Throughout the year he was unafraid to made controversial calls on all of Bail, Bate, Bennell, Dunn, Macdonald, Brad Miller, Morton, Johnson, McKenzie, Warnock, and Wonaeamirri, dropping them at one point or another. Even Jones – who has missed just 4 games since debut – was given the sack at one point, only to earn a reprise as a late inclusion. Each of those individuals could make a claim to being in Melbourne's best 22. Hence the internal competition will be as fierce as ever in 2011. Mediocrity and laziness will no longer be accepted. Finals are on the agenda and Melbourne will begin to be taken seriously. 'Experts' have proposed that 2013 will be Melbourne's first challenge, but I firmly believe that a top 4 placing is within reach next season and that the premiership window will be open the following year. Call me a naïve idiot, but this season's strong performances against Sydney, Collingwood, the Bulldogs, Fremantle and Hawthorn were no accidents. The debt is gone, the ingredients are prepared and the recipe is ready… so what are we waiting for? Best and Fairest tip: 1. Brad Green, 2. James Frawley, 3. Mark Jamar, 4. Colin Sylvia, 5. Cameron Bruce, 6. Brent Moloney, 7. Aaron Davey, 8. James McDonald, 9. Tom Scully, 10. Clint Bartram Coach's Award: Mark Jamar Best First Year Player: Tom Scully Leadership Award: Brent Moloney All Australian tip: Brad Green (HFF), James Frawley (BP) Best in Brownlow: Colin Sylvia Team stats 8 wins, 13 losses, 1 draw, 34 points, (Ladder: 12th) 94.52% (9th): 1863 For (11th), 1971 Against (8th) 36 quarters won (11th), 38 players used (4th) Ranked 1st in Rebound 50s Ranked 1st in One percenters Ranked 3rd in Hitouts Ranked 4th in Tackles Ranked 4th in Handballs Ranked 4th in Frees For Ranked 4th in Frees Against Ranked 5th in Disposals Ranked 5th in Uncontested Possesions Personal leaders Goals: Brad Green (55 – 6th in league); Lynden Dunn (26); Liam Jurrah (21); Matthew Bate (19); Colin Sylvia (16) Disposals: Cameron Bruce (514 – 28th) Marks: Brad Green (153 – 6th) Kicks: Brad Green (295 – 25th) Handballs: Cameron Bruce (304 – 9th) Tackles: Jordie McKenzie (128 – 8th) Hitouts: Mark Jamar (643 – 2nd) Inside 50s: Colin Syliva (87 – 19th) Rebound 50s: Colin Garland (141 – 3rd) Contested Marks: Mark Jamar (28 – 10th) 1st possessions: Brent Moloney (127 – 11th) Clearances: Brent Moloney (94 – 19th) One percenters: Colin Garland (149 – 6th) Supercoach: Cameron Bruce (2149 – 26th) Best 22 for Round 1, 2011 Backs Clint Bartram James Frawley Colin Garland Half backs Joel Macdonald Jared Rivers Jack Grimes Centreline Aaron Davey Jordie McKenzie Cameron Bruce Half forwards Matthew Bate Lynden Dunn Cale Morton Forwards Ricky Petterd Brad Green Liam Jurrah Followers Mark Jamar Colin Sylvia Brent Moloney Interchange Jamie Bennell Nathan Jones Tom Scully Jack Trengove Emergencies Matthew Warnock Jack Watts Austin Wonaeamirri Leadership Group, 2011 Brad Green © Cameron Bruce Aaron Davey Jack Grimes Brent Moloney Jared Rivers FROM DEVIL INSIDE Dee Man's Blog

2010 SEASON REVIEW + PLAYER/TEAM STATS + PREDICTIONS by Kevin Hawkins (a.k.a. Dee man) Melbourne's ascendency up the ladder was inevitable. But no one expected it to be this inevitable. Who would have predicted the Demons would double their premiership points? Who would have predicted they would remain in the finals race until the final three rounds? Who would have predicted they would have three realistic All Australian candidates? And who would have predicted the debt would finally being demolished? While the eventual ladder placement of 12th may humble the team's efforts in attaining credibility and respect in the football sphere, so many positives can be drawn from the 2010 season. Brisbane coach Michael Voss hyped the Dees up as the league's next superpower, Rohan Connolly drew parallels with Geelong, while various commentators touted the young Demons as the 'next big thing'. Add those claims to a 73 point demolition of Sydney, two interstate victories, a Queens Birthday draw and extremely narrow losses to Collingwood and the Bulldogs and you couldn't be faulted for thinking the Dees were in premiership contention. Premiership, let alone finals, may be a word coach Dean Bailey chooses to avoid over the coming seasons, but perhaps success isn't such a distant reality after all. An assessment of Melbourne's best 22 reveals that all the vital ingredients are in place. In James Frawley Melbourne has a strong bodied negator with the capacity to run and create. In Mark Jamar Melbourne has a resilient ruckman that simply refuses to give in. In Aaron Davey Melbourne has a game breaking playmaker with exquisite skills and wicked pace. In Colin Sylvia Melbourne has a roving midfielder with the potential to dominate up forward. In Brad Green and Liam Jurrah Melbourne has two match-winning goal-scorers unafraid to take pack marks or attempt the impossible. Add spoiling superstar Jack Grimes, creative genius Jack Trengove, ball magnet Tom Scully, one percenter maestro Colin Garland, and tackling machine Jordie McKenzie to the experience of Jared Rivers, Cameron Bruce and Brent Moloney and suddenly you have yourself a brigade of fourteen premiership quality players. As for the other eight, I'll get to them later. The key question is, does Melbourne have the correct recipe? For the first two years of Bailey's tenure critics questioned the coach's seemingly non-existent game plan. The handball happy mindset he instilled in his players compromised the natural games of Bruce and Nathan Jones, both of whom suffered regular holding-the-ball attacks. Bailey's tendency to experiment with player positions meant key forward Lynden Dunn was often picking fights with superiors in the centre square, while promising defender-cum-ruckman Stefan Martin was wasting away at full forward. Furthermore the forward line lacked any form of structure and the midfielders found it impossible to find a way inside 50. Two years on and some of these holes have yet to be filled. Overuse of the handball continues to see players muck it up at half back, while Melbourne remains 14th in the league for inside 50s. Furthermore the problems begin in the centre square, where Demon midfielders have too often allowed their opposition's top on-baller rack up countless possessions. To leave Bailey's game plan at that, however, would be selling the coach short. This season fans have begun to recognise the merits of Bailey's run-and-carry style, in which fast breaks, corridor centric activity and isolated forward lines have produced great results. In the space of a year the Demon game has gone from bland to exciting; from dull to vibrant; from mediocre to… competitive. There is undoubtedly still fine tuning required. As it stands Melbourne tactically sets up with too much optimism. With loose players in front of the ball, rather than around the contest, Melbourne too often places themselves in a risky predicament, whereby an unsuccessful clearance inevitably lead to an opposition inside 50. The flip side is that a victory from the stoppage enables the team to run free and earn themselves fast flowing goal opportunities. On numerous occasions this plan has worked a charm; even the top teams have seen themselves momentarily outclasses by the Demons' young sprinters. Hence Bailey is left with three options; subtly tweak the plan to cater for skill errors, continue to groom the current team to win more of these 50/50s, or employ a couple more inside players to ensure the hard ball is won. Regardless of which option is chosen, careful recruitment is still be necessary. A second ruckman to support the intense load of Jamar – who remarkably survived the season despite frequently going solo – is mandatory. Paul Johnson is a class above VFL level, but has too many flaws to be the team's leading man in the event that Jamar goes down. He is certainly worth keeping on the list as depth, but Johnson's weak pack-marking, unreliable tap-work and uncoordinated ground level skills make him a liability in contested situations. Jamar is by no means an angel – his lifted status has evidently had no influence on his inclination to instinctively handpass – but as a big man the Russian has all the desirable characteristics. He is an intimidator in the middle, a potent forward option when rested, and a fearless contested marker. As the football department wait for the raw Max Gawn, the lanky Jack Fitzpatrick and the inaccurate Jake Spencer – should he be granted elevation – to develop into Jamar protogees, a competent backup must be found. Michael Newton – who amassed a solitary hit out in the final round – is evidently not the option. Some have argued that Melbourne should also chase a powerful full forward to compliment the likes of Green, Jurrah, Dunn, Matthew Bate, Ricky Petterd and Jack Watts. Personally I don't believe such a recruiting move is necessary for the six reasons I have just stated. The firepower of Green (55 goals in '10), Jurrah (41 goals in 17 games), Dunn (22.11 since his Round 12 recall; shadowing his 4.11 from Rounds 1-7), Bate (27 goals in '09), Petterd (31 goals from his last 24 games) and Watts (10 goals and 9 assists in '10) is enough to make any defence nervous, particularly once the likes of Austin Wonaeamirri (32 goals from 26 games), Jamie Bennell (4 goals against Port Adelaide), Colin Sylvia (5 goals against Richmond) and even Aaron Davey (119 goals from his first 4 seasons) are added to the equation. A bulkier Cale Morton is expected to assume a key position in the coming years, while the foreseeable improvement of Watts, Jurrah and Petterd gives supporters even less reason to worry. To top it all off Green – the Best and Fairest favourite and potential All Australian half-forward – is playing the best football of his career. So long as the club doesn't prematurely force him out in the same manner that saw 150 Heroes Adem Yze, Jeff White, Russell Robertson and James McDonald depart in an inglorious fashion, Green should still be going strong come Melbourne's next premiership window. With Gold Coast and Greater Western Sydney severely restricting the talent pool of the upcoming draft Melbourne has the luxury of not making any rash changes to its list. Disregarding the rookies, not too many others beside Brad Miller, Daniel Bell and McDonald – who have already been let go – may have to suffer the chop. McKenzie, stiff not to be nominated for the Rising Star let alone be one of the favourites, will certainly be upgraded to the senior list. Similarly Spencer may gain himself a spot if they club chooses to persist with that project. Unfortunately Danny Hughes – despite his promising AFL performances – will most likely be let go, as will Rhys Healey, John Meesen and one-time hero Newton. What to do on the senior list is a little more difficult ; a number of second-to-third years are still yet to make their mark on the AFL stage. Addam Maric, despite his apparent talent, looms as the most vulnerable. In his only appearance for the season the fast forward-cum-wingman amassed a handy 16 possessions as the Demons demolished Sydney. Unfortunately for him the captain returned the next week, leaving Maric to wallow in the VFL for the remainder of the year. With opposition clubs unlikely to be interested in an unproven performer from a bottom-eight team Melbourne's best option – should they desire more young talent – is to delist the contracted player and regain his services as a rookie. Ditto Tom McNamara. This enables the club to persist with these promising young players without sacrificing a position on the senior list. If they don't make it little has been lost; if they do make it their relocation to the seniors is easy. Martin may be a similar egg to add to that basket, however given that the big man is struggling to make an impact in the VFL seconds it might be time to bring an end to that experiment. Despite a struggle for selection Kyle Cheney and Neville Jetta should both hang on to their places, as should James Strauss and Sam Blease. Cheney and Jetta are unlikely to be world-beaters but they are the depth players you'd be reluctant to let go. The latter duo, on the other hand, have endured slow inceptions to the world of AFL, but big wraps follow these kids and the club would be foolish not to be patient with them. In the brutal competitive realm of the AFL patience is one of the most important virtues a coaching panel can possess. The unprecedented improvement of Frawley and Jamar – unquestionably the club's most important players – has been well documented. Just as important, however, has been the rise of Clint Bartram and Dunn. Both players sat at the crossroads at the commencement of 2010, but are now amongst Melbourne's most experienced and important contributors. Bartram goes unnoticed almost every week and his name is constantly vomited out by distrustful fans during weekly selection conversations, but the former top-5 Rising Star nominee has consistently done the job as a small defender. On the rebound his dash is occasionally let down by poor disposal, but from a defensive perspective he has not suffered many defeats. Dunn, meanwhile, has finally been settled into a position he belongs. Having mastered the art of tagging under Bailey's questionable apprenticeship Dunn has become a vital cog in the Demon attack, indicated by the late season sacking of Bate. His dual role as a defensive forward and attacking goalscorer is complimented by his fine marking skills and accurate long kicking. Dunn ensures each of his possessions count, but he still needs to find more of the ball. His dismal 4-possesion performance against Hawthorn late in the season corresponded with the beginning of Melbourne's losing streak; a better game from him that day may have kept the Demons in finals contention for another week. I blame it on the moustache. Patience has also been shown with the more experienced members of the team. At the halfway mark of the season I lamented that Bruce's "disposal has been dismal. Under pressure he is possibly the game's worst decision maker; whenever he gets the ball you can sense the collective fear of all Demon supporters." Eleven weeks on and I am eating my words. Bruce's brilliant second half of the season has placed him in contention for yet another high Bluey placing. Playing a predominantly more attacking role since the mid-season break Bruce has rediscovered the art of kicking and the delights of goalscoring. 6 goals in the last 10 games may not sound like much, but given that Bruce didn't kick a single major for seventeen straight games his return to the scoreboard has been welcome. While the masses were initially pleased with rumours that Gold Coast were chasing him such an outcome would be now a setback given Junior's recent departure. With the case studies of Frawley, Jamar, Bartram, Dunn and Bruce in mind it is important that faith is shown in Melbourne's next saviour, the one and only Jack Watts. From his 18 senior appearances the blonde key-position player has yet to set the world on fire, but reassuring performances against Port Adelaide (18 disposals, 2 goals), St Kilda (18 disposals and 9 marks), Fremantle (19 disposals and 7 marks), Brisbane (27 disposals) and Richmond (8 last quarter disposals) indicate that he's on the right track. Some critics have been quick to dismiss Watts as a wasted draft pick, but it is important for them to consider the recent breakthrough of comparable players such as Scott Gumbleton (#2 in 2006), Jack Riewoldt (#13 in 2006) Chris Dawes (#28 in 2006) and Jarrad Grant (#5 in 2007), and the slow development of Watts' fellow '08 draftees (Stephen Hill, Daniel Rich and Michael Hurley are the only three top-10 picks thus far to have justified their early selection). As I discussed earlier Melbourne has at least 14 'premiership-quality' players on their list. Improvement from eight to ten others in 2011 will make the difference between a bottom-eight 'competitor' and a top-eight contender. Bartram, Dunn and Nathan Jones are each one consistent season away from being walk-in regulars. Form and injuries interrupted the seasons of Matthew Warnock, Wonaeamirri, Morton, Petterd and Bate but these guys are simply too good not to be constituents in Melbourne's race for premiership glory. The latter three in particular are capable of best-on-ground performances and shouldn't be on the fringes for too much longer. Meanwhile relative newcomers Joel Macdonald, Rohan Bail and Bennell each enjoyed commendable seasons, but with the likes of Jordan Gysberts, Luke Tapscott, Blease, Strauss and Melbourne's prospective no.12 pick raring to go, they will be amongst the more vulnerable in 2011. Unlike Neale Daniher before him, Bailey is a fearless coach. Throughout the year he was unafraid to made controversial calls on all of Bail, Bate, Bennell, Dunn, Macdonald, Brad Miller, Morton, Johnson, McKenzie, Warnock, and Wonaeamirri, dropping them at one point or another. Even Jones – who has missed just 4 games since debut – was given the sack at one point, only to earn a reprise as a late inclusion. Each of those individuals could make a claim to being in Melbourne's best 22. Hence the internal competition will be as fierce as ever in 2011. Mediocrity and laziness will no longer be accepted. Finals are on the agenda and Melbourne will begin to be taken seriously. 'Experts' have proposed that 2013 will be Melbourne's first challenge, but I firmly believe that a top 4 placing is within reach next season and that the premiership window will be open the following year. Call me a naïve idiot, but this season's strong performances against Sydney, Collingwood, the Bulldogs, Fremantle and Hawthorn were no accidents. The debt is gone, the ingredients are prepared and the recipe is ready… so what are we waiting for? Best and Fairest tip: 1. Brad Green, 2. James Frawley, 3. Mark Jamar, 4. Colin Sylvia, 5. Cameron Bruce, 6. Brent Moloney, 7. Aaron Davey, 8. James McDonald, 9. Tom Scully, 10. Clint Bartram Coach's Award: Mark Jamar Best First Year Player: Tom Scully Leadership Award: Brent Moloney All Australian tip: Brad Green (HFF), James Frawley (BP) Best in Brownlow: Colin Sylvia Team stats 8 wins, 13 losses, 1 draw, 34 points, (Ladder: 12th) 94.52% (9th): 1863 For (11th), 1971 Against (8th) 36 quarters won (11th), 38 players used (4th) Ranked 1st in Rebound 50s Ranked 1st in One percenters Ranked 3rd in Hitouts Ranked 4th in Tackles Ranked 4th in Handballs Ranked 4th in Frees For Ranked 4th in Frees Against Ranked 5th in Disposals Ranked 5th in Uncontested Possesions Personal leaders Goals: Brad Green (55 – 6th in league); Lynden Dunn (26); Liam Jurrah (21); Matthew Bate (19); Colin Sylvia (16) Disposals: Cameron Bruce (514 – 28th) Marks: Brad Green (153 – 6th) Kicks: Brad Green (295 – 25th) Handballs: Cameron Bruce (304 – 9th) Tackles: Jordie McKenzie (128 – 8th) Hitouts: Mark Jamar (643 – 2nd) Inside 50s: Colin Syliva (87 – 19th) Rebound 50s: Colin Garland (141 – 3rd) Contested Marks: Mark Jamar (28 – 10th) 1st possessions: Brent Moloney (127 – 11th) Clearances: Brent Moloney (94 – 19th) One percenters: Colin Garland (149 – 6th) Supercoach: Cameron Bruce (2149 – 26th) Best 22 for Round 1, 2011 Backs Clint Bartram James Frawley Colin Garland Half backs Joel Macdonald Jared Rivers Jack Grimes Centreline Aaron Davey Jordie McKenzie Cameron Bruce Half forwards Matthew Bate Lynden Dunn Cale Morton Forwards Ricky Petterd Brad Green Liam Jurrah Followers Mark Jamar Colin Sylvia Brent Moloney Interchange Jamie Bennell Nathan Jones Tom Scully Jack Trengove Emergencies Matthew Warnock Jack Watts Austin Wonaeamirri Leadership Group, 2011 Brad Green © Cameron Bruce Aaron Davey Jack Grimes Brent Moloney Jared Rivers FROM DEVIL INSIDE Dee Man's Blog