Demonland

HARD WORK FOR THE WORKHORSES by KC from Casey Despite another spirited performance at the weekend by the Casey Scorpions, this time against the Box Hill Hawks, Peter German's youngsters have again missed out on a win by a narrow margin and will play Collingwood in an Elimination Final at TEAC Oval on Saturday. The final result, a 1 point defeat was the team's fourth of the season by a margin of less than a goal and left the Scorpions in sixth place on the VFL ladder as fans were left lamenting what might have been but for a rotten run with injuries in the latter part of the season. The conditions were overcast and breezy at the Box Hill City Oval and the home team bounced away to an early lead in a sometimes spiteful opening stanza that saw Casey first gamer Scott Virtue felled and stretchered off after a sickening mid air collision. Box Hill took the ascendency to lead at the first change by 17 points with the Scorpions' two goalkickers were skipper Kyle Matthews and the versatile Alex Silvagni who was relishing the opportunity to move further afield after making a name for himself in defence. Box Hill kept up the pressure in the second term and appeared to have too many big guns for the visitors who were again restricted in their available list of AFL players to two seniors and two rookie listers. The best of them was Paul Johnson who did well in the ruck and around the ground. A late surge of goals from Glenn Chivers, Silvagni and Ben Waite saw the Scorpions still in the hunt at half time with the Hawks holding onto a narrow lead of just eight points. The news from elsewhere was not good for both clubs as they were relying on an upset by the Dolphins over the Bullants at Frankston to open the door for a top four berth to the winner of this game. Instead, the boys from Cramer Street had opened up a big lead shutting the door completely on that possibility. Box Hill with its AFL contingent firing up forward took a firm grip on the game in the third quarter and skipped away to a 27 point lead at the final break. James Taylor managed a couple of handy goals to keep Casey's chances alive at the final change. The young Scorpions were inspired as they made their charge and 21 minutes into the final term, a snap goal to Ben MacReadie saw them hit the lead by 3 points. The home side responded to regain the lead for the Hawks who bottled up the game well enough to prevent a repeat of last week's come from behind heroics at Casey Fields. The Scorpions had their chances but were unable to penetrate the Box Hill defence and were still attacking when the final siren sounded to signal their defeat by the narrowest of margins. German told reporters after the game that despite "mastering the art of losing the close ones" his team was a young side and still learning. He added that while his team didn't have the star players, "we've just got a bunch of guys who are just workhorses really." That might well be the case but some of the "workhorses" are starting to accumulate "star" numbers. MacReadie with 35 disposals was again in sparkling form for Casey and he was well backed up by James Wall (14 kicks, 17 handballs), Wade Lees who had 26 touches, Even Panozza (23) and Matthews who gathered 12 third quarter possessions on his way to a total of 31 for the match. Apart from the loss and the injury to Virtue, the day was also soured by the reporting of Pierce Liddle who earlier in the week was invited to the Northern Territory draft screening camp to be held in ealy October. Casey now takes on an in form Collingwood in Saturday's cut throat final as the business end of the season gets well and truly under way. All fans are asked to come to TEAC Oval in Port Melbourne to support the team as it starts its finals campaign. HOW THE DEMONS FARED This is how Peter German rated the handful of Melbourne listed players at his disposal on Sunday on the Melbourne Football Club website:- Paul Johnson – "Johnno rucked for most of the game. He did a lot of work around the ground, but he had two or three disposals that didn't find the target at critical times, which detracted a bit from his game. But otherwise, he worked hard over the four quarters." 11 kicks 6 handballs 1 mark 2 tackles 28 hit outs Stef Martin – "Stef was a little bit down. We played him across half-forward, a bit in the ruck and wing as well, so we threw him around a bit. He fumbled a little bit, which was unusual, so we would've liked him to have had a greater impact." 3 kicks 9 handballs 4 marks 1 tackle 1 goal Shane Valenti – "Shane started slowly but built himself into the game, but his work around the stoppages was good." 6 kicks 10 handballs 4 marks 3 tackles Trent Zomer – "Trent paid the price for having too many talls in the side, so he only played 60 per cent of game time. He got a bit of the ball early and had a shot at goal late, which could've put us in front, but he didn't make the distance. Trent is a player who needs to make every post a winner." 2 kicks 2 handballs 2 marks Casey Scorpions 2.2.14 6.3.39 9.3.57 14.5.89 Box Hill Hawks 5.1.31 7.5.47 12.10.82 13.12.90 Goals Casey Scorpions McGough Silvagni Taylor Waite 2 Chivers Liddle MacReadie Martin Matthews Smith Box Hill Hawks Lisle 5 Williams 3 Curnow Fagan Iles Suckling Taylor Best Casey Scorpions MacReadie Panozza Chivers Matthews Faulks Wall Box Hill Hawks Lisle Williams Markovic Whitecross Curnow Tuck Reported Pierce Liddle (Casey Scorpions) for allegedly charging Edward Curnow (Box Hill Hawks) Unfortunately, the reserves were really struggling for numbers and the patched up side could do little to prevent what was a predictable slaughter against the top side, Box Hill. Casey Scorpions 0.2.2 1.7.13 2.9.21 2.10.22 Box Hill Hawks 4.3.27 6.6.42 15.10.100 24.18.162 Goals Casey Scorpions Clay Wall Box Hill Hawks Hoegel 7 Renton 6 Parker 3 Conyers Nye 2 Bull Dell Aquilla Marcius Peterson Best Casey Scorpions Patti Clay Matheson Wall Aziz McDonald Box Hill Hawks Cross Kitchin Renton Marcius McGuinness Hoegel Reported S Grasser (Casey Scorpions) for allegedly striking J Cross (Box Hill Hawks) in the second quarter VIDEO OF THE GAME FROM VFL FOOTY

by KC from Casey Despite another spirited performance at the weekend by the Casey Scorpions, this time against the Box Hill Hawks, Peter German's youngsters have again missed out on a win by a narrow margin and will play Collingwood in an Elimination Final at TEAC Oval on Saturday. The final result, a 1 point defeat was the team's fourth of the season by a margin of less than a goal and left the Scorpions in sixth place on the VFL ladder as fans were left lamenting what might have been but for a rotten run with injuries in the latter part of the season. The conditions were overcast and breezy at the Box Hill City Oval and the home team bounced away to an early lead in a sometimes spiteful opening stanza that saw Casey first gamer Scott Virtue felled and stretchered off after a sickening mid air collision. Box Hill took the ascendency to lead at the first change by 17 points with the Scorpions' two goalkickers were skipper Kyle Matthews and the versatile Alex Silvagni who was relishing the opportunity to move further afield after making a name for himself in defence. Box Hill kept up the pressure in the second term and appeared to have too many big guns for the visitors who were again restricted in their available list of AFL players to two seniors and two rookie listers. The best of them was Paul Johnson who did well in the ruck and around the ground. A late surge of goals from Glenn Chivers, Silvagni and Ben Waite saw the Scorpions still in the hunt at half time with the Hawks holding onto a narrow lead of just eight points. The news from elsewhere was not good for both clubs as they were relying on an upset by the Dolphins over the Bullants at Frankston to open the door for a top four berth to the winner of this game. Instead, the boys from Cramer Street had opened up a big lead shutting the door completely on that possibility. Box Hill with its AFL contingent firing up forward took a firm grip on the game in the third quarter and skipped away to a 27 point lead at the final break. James Taylor managed a couple of handy goals to keep Casey's chances alive at the final change. The young Scorpions were inspired as they made their charge and 21 minutes into the final term, a snap goal to Ben MacReadie saw them hit the lead by 3 points. The home side responded to regain the lead for the Hawks who bottled up the game well enough to prevent a repeat of last week's come from behind heroics at Casey Fields. The Scorpions had their chances but were unable to penetrate the Box Hill defence and were still attacking when the final siren sounded to signal their defeat by the narrowest of margins. German told reporters after the game that despite "mastering the art of losing the close ones" his team was a young side and still learning. He added that while his team didn't have the star players, "we've just got a bunch of guys who are just workhorses really." That might well be the case but some of the "workhorses" are starting to accumulate "star" numbers. MacReadie with 35 disposals was again in sparkling form for Casey and he was well backed up by James Wall (14 kicks, 17 handballs), Wade Lees who had 26 touches, Even Panozza (23) and Matthews who gathered 12 third quarter possessions on his way to a total of 31 for the match. Apart from the loss and the injury to Virtue, the day was also soured by the reporting of Pierce Liddle who earlier in the week was invited to the Northern Territory draft screening camp to be held in ealy October. Casey now takes on an in form Collingwood in Saturday's cut throat final as the business end of the season gets well and truly under way. All fans are asked to come to TEAC Oval in Port Melbourne to support the team as it starts its finals campaign. HOW THE DEMONS FARED This is how Peter German rated the handful of Melbourne listed players at his disposal on Sunday on the Melbourne Football Club website:- Paul Johnson – "Johnno rucked for most of the game. He did a lot of work around the ground, but he had two or three disposals that didn't find the target at critical times, which detracted a bit from his game. But otherwise, he worked hard over the four quarters." 11 kicks 6 handballs 1 mark 2 tackles 28 hit outs Stef Martin – "Stef was a little bit down. We played him across half-forward, a bit in the ruck and wing as well, so we threw him around a bit. He fumbled a little bit, which was unusual, so we would've liked him to have had a greater impact." 3 kicks 9 handballs 4 marks 1 tackle 1 goal Shane Valenti – "Shane started slowly but built himself into the game, but his work around the stoppages was good." 6 kicks 10 handballs 4 marks 3 tackles Trent Zomer – "Trent paid the price for having too many talls in the side, so he only played 60 per cent of game time. He got a bit of the ball early and had a shot at goal late, which could've put us in front, but he didn't make the distance. Trent is a player who needs to make every post a winner." 2 kicks 2 handballs 2 marks Casey Scorpions 2.2.14 6.3.39 9.3.57 14.5.89 Box Hill Hawks 5.1.31 7.5.47 12.10.82 13.12.90 Goals Casey Scorpions McGough Silvagni Taylor Waite 2 Chivers Liddle MacReadie Martin Matthews Smith Box Hill Hawks Lisle 5 Williams 3 Curnow Fagan Iles Suckling Taylor Best Casey Scorpions MacReadie Panozza Chivers Matthews Faulks Wall Box Hill Hawks Lisle Williams Markovic Whitecross Curnow Tuck Reported Pierce Liddle (Casey Scorpions) for allegedly charging Edward Curnow (Box Hill Hawks) Unfortunately, the reserves were really struggling for numbers and the patched up side could do little to prevent what was a predictable slaughter against the top side, Box Hill. Casey Scorpions 0.2.2 1.7.13 2.9.21 2.10.22 Box Hill Hawks 4.3.27 6.6.42 15.10.100 24.18.162 Goals Casey Scorpions Clay Wall Box Hill Hawks Hoegel 7 Renton 6 Parker 3 Conyers Nye 2 Bull Dell Aquilla Marcius Peterson Best Casey Scorpions Patti Clay Matheson Wall Aziz McDonald Box Hill Hawks Cross Kitchin Renton Marcius McGuinness Hoegel Reported S Grasser (Casey Scorpions) for allegedly striking J Cross (Box Hill Hawks) in the second quarter VIDEO OF THE GAME FROM VFL FOOTY

One more time please folks! 6,5,4,3,2,1 ...

THE ROSE by Whispering Jack History has already recorded that in the final home and away round of season 2010, the AFL's minor premiers stormed home over the top of the bottom side to win by 47 points. The final score was St. Kilda 17.12.114 to Melbourne 10.7.67. The result of the game was not needed to confirm the Saints as winners of football's biggest prize outside the finals - the McClelland Trophy for the team that occupies top perch on the ladder after 22 rounds. The Saints had already secured that award some weeks ago. However, the outcome of the match did determine what one commentator described during the week as football's second biggest trophy - the priority draft pick which Melbourne secured by losing the game, finishing last and not winning any more than four matches for the season. The reward for that is not only the first two selections in this year's national draft but also first pick in the pre season draft which carries with it the right to take an uncontracted player in December and therefore gives the recipient some extra leverage in player trading. Aside from that and the somewhat surreal atmosphere that existed at a cold and windy MCG in late August, you could hardly detect the fact that the gulf between the two combatants was as wide as that which signifies the two extremities of the competition. With spring and the fragrant smell of new flowers and freshly cut grass just days away, the Saints were battling their way through a form slump probably occasioned by playing too many meaningless fixtures as they waited for the finals to arrive. The Demons were just mucking around waiting for it all to end. They were highly competitive in the first half (as they were earlier in the season when the two teams met at Carrara), remained in touch until midway through the final term and finally, the expected happened and they were blown off the park in the game's last fifteen minutes. The one thing about this game that resonated for me was that it was summed up so well by a dinner I attended earlier in the week as a guest of the convener of the Devil's Advocates - group of lawyers who raise funds for the club. It was an unofficial gathering with four of the club's senior list in attendance and, of course only one of the four played in yesterday's game. Two of the others are injured, the fourth footballing member of our party was an emergency. While two of this small group of four players were missing through injury at the weekend, another AFL team in Collingwood had one lone player on its injury list. And that player is an unknown outside the precincts of the Lexus Centre. The fact remains that it's not easy for teams to perform when half of the list is simply unavailable. Another curiosity of that evening was that, by co- incidence, at another table and just out of earshot sat former Hawthorn President Ian Dicker. Ironically, had events turned out a little differently 13 years ago, he might have been at the table with us and dining with his fellow Dawks. Perish the thought although I suppose that I would have copped the premiership last year! But I digress. There will be plenty of time during the off season for trivial chit chat. Let's get back to the game. In the beginning it was Melbourne which gained the upper hand with first blood to Brad Miller followed by an absolute pearler to last year's number one pre season draft pick Liam Jurrah who somehow manoeuvred a kick over his head through the goals much to the astonishment of everyone at the ground. If ever the Saints needed a wakeup call this was it. The way they were negotiating the early going was suggestive of the fact that they had arrived at the ground firmly of the understanding that their opponents were so desperate to lose that they would simply lay down and die. They were as bland as their predominantly pale white attire and the script wasn't panning out the way it was planned. With Colin Sylvia and Cale Morton dominating, the Demons remained in control, led by the margin of two goals at quarter time and stretched it to three by midterm in the second. As usual, there were some Demon supporters claiming that "the umpires are killing us" but this time it was because they were handing "us" too many frees! The order of things needed changing! The inevitable swing came in the latter part of the second term when Saints skipper who had been held well in check by young Demon defender James Frawley shook off his lethargy and his recent goal kicking yips and raised his team back to life with three goals (one from a dodgy free kick - thank you umpires). His mark and goal on the siren put his team in front for the first time in the game and ended the possibility of the only half time deadlock of the season thus far. As with Carlton's Brendan Fevola a week earlier, the forward's goal kicking spree took part in the absence of Frawley but let's face it - even key defenders need a break sometimes! The complexion of the game changed for the worst ( or better depending on your viewpoint) with Riewoldt booting a fourth and with midfielders Dal Santo and Hayes now firmly in control and tagger Jones (theirs, not ours) doing the job on Aaron Davey, the Saints jumped out to a lead in excess of four goals. The prize was almost in our hands. Once again, it was Jurrah who thought otherwise and he turned on another magical cameo of two goals that had the hearts of fans on both sides fluttering. There still wasn't much in the game as the teams changed ends for the last time. There was one remaining act to play out and that was to bid farewell to three great servants of the club. To paraphrase the old children’s' song, Demons live forever but not so little boys. If you're going to adopt a policy of youth then something has to give way and the tough decision was made that Russell Robertson, Paul Wheatley and Matthew Whelan - all of them stalwarts with aging bodies and injury problems in recent times - were the ones who would have to make way. Fittingly, Robbo ran in for his final hurrah and Wheaters, playing just his third game for the season, banged through his last long bomb from outside fifty. Wheels was never a goal kicker and was nursing his tired aching body through game number 150 but surely, he took great vicarious pleasure from the four magnificent goals kicked by fellow Territorian Liam Jurrah. The game was still in the balance as the clock ticked towards the halfway mark of the final term but, with the heroics of the retirees behind them, the Demons fell into mission accomplished mode and the Saints started practicing for their finals campaign. This was, after all, their first appearance for the year on the hallowed turf of the MCG. They finished with all guns blazing and turned what was an otherwise close and interesting encounter into yet another rout. The Demons may have collected their second successive wooden spoon but they have plenty to look forward to in the coming months and years. The ongoing rebuilding phase is about to gather momentum and, with spring only a day away, I am reminded and inspired by the words of Amanda McBroom who wrote: "Just remember in the winter far beneath the bitter snows lies the seed that with the sun's love in the spring becomes the rose" Those words must surely encapsulate what these past two or three years have been all about for the Melbourne Football Club. Melbourne 4.2.26 6.5.41 8.6.54 10.7.67 St Kilda 2.2.14 7.5.47 10.10.70 17.12.114 Goals Melbourne Jurrah 4 Jamar Miller Moloney Robertson Sylvia Wheatley St Kilda Riewoldt 6 Koschitzke Milne 2 Dal Santo Dempster Gilbert Gram McQualter Montagna Schneider Best Melbourne Jurrah Sylvia Morton Jones Moloney Dunn St Kilda Dal Santo Riewoldt Hayes Jones Gilbert Goddard Gram Injuries Melbourne Spencer (jarred hip) St Kilda Nil Changes Melbourne Nil St Kilda Nil Reports Nil Umpires Donlon Kamolins Mollison Crowd 36,748 at MCG

That's just an average goal for Luam!

It's on!

Has anybody mentioned that he's 195cm tall?

Now see the final result in THE FULL CIRCLE

THE FULL CIRCLE by The Oracle and friends at Demonland Melbourne's final home and away game for the season against St. Kilda represents the closing of a three year circle. It has been a somewhat vicious circle which has taken the club from a disappointing and disastrous season opener at the MCG against St. Kilda in 2007 to an appointment that will close its 2009 roster at the same ground and against the same club on Sunday. In the interim, it's been a tale of heartbreak and woes. When the Demons took on the Saints in round 1 of 2007, they were the favourites to win the game and, at the time, many experts had them in their predictions for a top four finish or better. After all, they were coming off a season in which they made the semi finals, had finished the highest ranked Victorian club and had beaten St. Kilda in a recent final at the home of football. Melbourne fans had every reason to be confident of the future then but a poor performance in that fateful first match of 2007 set the scene for a horrible year filled with injury and disappointment which produced just five wins and a sacked coach. Things only got worse in 2008 and by the time Melbourne next came up against St. Kilda, it was down on the floor as a club, struggling to win on the field and with a new board and lots of tin rattling to come off the field. There were some signs of improvement this year and when the Demons played the Saints on the Gold Coast in mid season they looked good for a half before bucking under to the weight of their opponents' class. Since then, they've limped through the remainder of a season and have remained terribly fraught by injuries and inconsistent performances. The latter is often indicative with young sides and there's a lot of optimism for a future when the young players introduced over the past three seasons mature and develop individually and as a group – The Oracle. The minor premiers, St. Kilda, having lost their past two games to Essendon and North Melbourne by less than a kick (or by a Riewoldt kick), venture to the MCG for the first time in season 2009. Unbelievable isn't it? That's just how things work out with such an uneven fixture, so if you hear any Saints fans whinge on the way to the game, be sure to point out what Melbourne is served up by Vlad and his puppets. With the finals the week after, the Saints and Rossy Lyon will be determined to put a stop to their form slump immediately by ramping up their game to such a level in preparation for the finals and what better place to do it than at the MCG? One of the areas the Saints haven't been going well at of late is the contested ball. They've been beaten in here in the last couple of weeks and their stats for contested ball have not been at the level they pride themselves on so the return of Luke Ball is significant. For Melbourne, it will be a somewhat sad affair. For Paul Wheatley, Matthew Whelan & Russell Robertson will grace the hallowed turf for the last time in the Red & Blue. Each have been fantastic contributors for the Melbourne Football Club, each have represented Melbourne in various finals campaigns and they each can hold their head high as they take the last walk off the ground in the Red & Blue in front of their beloved supporters on Sunday evening. Each of these players is well respected among their teammates and has devoted their time for the Melbourne Football Club on and off the field. All role models in their own right, not just for the supporters but for some of their teammates or brothers as well i.e. Wheels. Let's not forget that. I for one will be there to clap them at the conclusion of the game on Sunday. I'll remember Wheats for his tireless work in the back half, his long penetrating kicks and his 'Supergoals'. Wheels for his hardness, he's accountability and his speed within and around the backline. Robbo for his exciting high flying, many of his 420 odd goals and his emotion. I hope many Melbourne members/supporters do too – High Tower This is the Saints first game for the year at the 'G. Thus early results, along with emotion, will push the Demons to play the day at breakneck speed. The Saints will let us run early with basic accountability (within their structures) but they will be sure to take their opportunities when they no doubt present. As with last week I expect us go hot and cold but still toe to toe almost to the end of the first half. The stats that matter at that time: Robbo: One reel of highlights and a sausage or four. Wheels: One forward snag and one legal crunch (Milne?). Wheats: A dash along the wing to bomb one from 65m. Youth: Full complement of multi-role red-hot-go delivered. Then we'll get shut down. We'll get tired and (hopefully not ) injured. It's then all about what's left and at what level that can be delivered. The second half won't be pretty. I'm hoping Richmond last year is as bad as it might be but the Saints will be merciless. Not that the Demons will surrender until the final siren, they will simply, evidently, be outclassed. The day though belongs to the retirees (even if club only). One more time around boys, thanks again - Trident THE GAME Melbourne v St. Kilda at the MCG – Sunday 30 August 2009 at 2.10 pm HEAD TO HEAD Overall Melbourne 118 wins St. Kilda 80 wins 1 drawn MCG Melbourne 58 wins St. Kilda 30 wins Since 2000 Melbourne 9 wins St. Kilda 5 wins The Coaches Bailey 0 wins Lyon 2 wins MEDIA TV Channel 7 3.000 pm (1 hour delay) RADIO ABC774 K-Rock SEN Triple M 3AW THE BETTING Melbourne to win $11.00 St. Kilda to win $1.02 (thank god they're going through a slump!) THE LAST TIME THEY MET St. Kilda 11.17.83 defeated Melbourne 6.10.46 – Round 10, 2009 at Carrara Melbourne took it right up to St. Kilda in a pressure packed first half in Round 10 at Carrara and trailed the Saints by only eight points at the main break. However, the Demons noticeably tired after the interval and went defensive allowing the undefeated league leaders to strangle them in the process. Riewoldt kicked four for St. Kilda while Hayes, Jones and Dal Santo did the damage. Cameron Bruce, Colin Sylvia and Brad Green were the best of the Demons. THE TEAMS MELBOURNE Backs Clint Bartram James Frawley Nathan Jones Half backs Kyle Cheney Jared Rivers Cale Morton Centreline Paul Wheatley Lynden Dunn James McDonald Half forwards Aaron Davey Russell Robertson Colin Sylvia Forwards Neville Jetta Liam Jurrah Brad Miller Followers Jake Spencer Brent Moloney Brock McLean Interchange Jamie Bennell Mark Jamar Jordie McKenzie Matthew Whelan Emergencies Tom McNamara Stefan Martin Shane Valenti In Clint Bartram Jamie Bennell Lynden Dunn Nathan Jones Brad Miller Paul Wheatley Out Matthew Bate (chest/lung) Paul Johnson (omitted) Tom McNamara (omitted) Stefan Martin (omitted) Ricky Petterd (adductor) Shane Valenti (omitted) ST. KILDA Backs Raphael Clarke Zac Dawson Steven Baker Half backs Sam Fisher Jason Blake Sam Gilbert Centreline Brendon Goddard Lenny Hayes Nick Dal Santo Half forwards Andrew McQualter Justin Koschitzke Clint Jones Forwards Stephen Milne Nick Riewoldt Jason Gram Followers Steven King Leigh Montagna Adam Schneider Interchange Sean Dempster Robert Eddy Ben McEvoy Farren Ray Emergencies Luke Ball Jarryn Geary Jack Steven In Robert Eddy Lenny Hayes Ben McEvoy Out David Armitage (omitted) Matthew Gardiner (hamstring soreness) James Gwilt (omitted) On the selection front there's been a lot of focus on injuries. Most of the talk has been about Nick Riewoldt with the paparazzi chasing him around town earlier in the week like the late Princess Di to check up on the scans on his injured knee. Lenny Hayes and Max Hudghton have also come under scrutiny over their mystery ailments. Meanwhile, nobody gives a rat's about the fact that Melbourne's injury list continues to nudge around 20. Having your players fit at the end of a long, hard season is vital. Just ask Collingwood which is about to take over flag favouritism from the Saints and the Cats. The Maggies have only one player on their injured list, Tristan Francis, and nobody's ever heard of him. That's why they're so hot at the minute. But even without some of their stars, the Saints would be starting favourites in this game despite the unfamiliarity of the territory. The fact that they will have most of their guns available makes the Saints almost unbackable to win and win well in the biggest mismatch of the season – Demon Head So Sunday afternoon at the G at 2.10 begins the last game of the home and away season for Melbourne. It's the last game on the hallowed ground before the following week's finals. Of the two teams competing this day one looks to this September with legitimate expectations the other looks to games far more distant in time if finals are to be considered. The Saints will be expecting a result far better than their history against the home side would suggest . Having played 88 times at the G Melbourne has triumphed on 58 of those occurrences but they were possibly in better times. It isn't without reason that St. Kilda sits atop the ladder and Melbourne diametrically at the opposite end on the bottom. The two sides will have only one thing in common this Sunday and that's the colour and shape of the ball. St. Kilda's window is firmly open and the breeze blows strong. Melbourne's is quietly closed for the moment awaiting the finishing touches to renovation before pushing it ajar. Whilst there ought to be a spirited contest only one team really has anything immediate to play for and I expect this to be very much a tune up and reminder of winning for the Saints. Melbourne will bid farewell to a trio of club stalwarts. Two different teams at two different moments in the evolutionary cycle called football. Barring further injury to the Demons a valiant if unsuccessful day will probably play out with a recorded loss of 7-8 goals to the home side - Belzebub59 Bottom V Top, Hell V Heaven, Demons V Saints, Bad V Good, Draft Hope V Premiership Hope, Melbourne V St. Kilda. One team playing to lose, the other couldn't lose if it tried. One squad moving from veterans to the young, the other firmly entrenched in the here and now. One group of supporters coming to farewell the past and witness the future, or at least part of it, the other group coming because it's their first chance to see their heroes at the home of Football. Like Mecca for Muslims, Bodhgaya for Buddhists, Jerusalem for Christians, the local clinic for Pies fans, it's a must to come to the MCG, to revel in the history, to breath in the future and to hope, to hope that in 4 weeks time it's their team that's alive and holding up that Cup. In reality, the game will be about finishing off a season that for Melbourne finished long ago, with just the need to lose once more to receive the final input of hope for the future. That of Thomas "second Son of God" Scully, the anointed heir apparent to the throne held for a year by one Jackyboy "Son of God" Watts. For the Melbourne faithful it's one more position filled toward that elusive 13th premiership team. If Scully and Watts turn out to be half as good as is hoped, no expected, then Melbourne is in safe hands. For being a Melbourne supporter is and for a long time, has been about hope, hope that one day we will be feared again, one day we will be winners again. For mine I feel that day is coming. A day when the September sun shines on a Dais with Red and Blue balloons filling the air, 104,879 rabid fans celebrating in the glory that is the coming of the Lord, or in this case, Melbourne Premiership captain Jack Watts to receive his Norm Smith Medal. That day had its seeds in the here and now. Jim Stynes, Chris Connolly, Cameron Schwab and a committed Melbourne Board and family has planted those seeds, Dean Bailey is tending those seeds, ensuring that we get an excellent strike rate, one that offers us the opportunity we so richly deserve. So when you wake up on Sunday and think why would I want to go to the Football today? Think of the past, think of Matty Whelan's shoulder and James Hird's head, think of his dash from half back, think of the tackles, think of his heart. Think of Paul Wheatley's first super goal, think of his efforts to overcome injury, think of his love for the jumper. Remember Russell Robertson's trademark leap, think of all those goals and think of his ability to do it for this great club. For F**k's sake if that doesn't get you there then come and see the future. Watch as Liam Jurrah does things that only he can do, watch as Aaron Davey mesmerises the opposition with his grace and flair, watch as Nathan Jones puts his head over the ball time and time again, watch a revitalised Jared Rivers back into a pack to repel another attack, watch as you witness the makings of the next great AFL team. As supporters we have a duty, a duty to support our team, so get out of bed, get your gear on and get on down to the G, because there's 22 players, a coach, a truly dedicated President and countless others who are all going to be there giving it there all to put this club back on top where it belongs! - Roost It Saints by 62 We at Demonland would like to thank all who participated in this match preview and in all of the match previews during the year. It's not easy to come back week after week and try to write something positive about the club so thanks again and let's hope that in 2010 we'll be previewing and writing about many more victories!

by The Oracle and friends at Demonland Melbourne's final home and away game for the season against St. Kilda represents the closing of a three year circle. It has been a somewhat vicious circle which has taken the club from a disappointing and disastrous season opener at the MCG against St. Kilda in 2007 to an appointment that will close its 2009 roster at the same ground and against the same club on Sunday. In the interim, it's been a tale of heartbreak and woes. When the Demons took on the Saints in round 1 of 2007, they were the favourites to win the game and, at the time, many experts had them in their predictions for a top four finish or better. After all, they were coming off a season in which they made the semi finals, had finished the highest ranked Victorian club and had beaten St. Kilda in a recent final at the home of football. Melbourne fans had every reason to be confident of the future then but a poor performance in that fateful first match of 2007 set the scene for a horrible year filled with injury and disappointment which produced just five wins and a sacked coach. Things only got worse in 2008 and by the time Melbourne next came up against St. Kilda, it was down on the floor as a club, struggling to win on the field and with a new board and lots of tin rattling to come off the field. There were some signs of improvement this year and when the Demons played the Saints on the Gold Coast in mid season they looked good for a half before bucking under to the weight of their opponents' class. Since then, they've limped through the remainder of a season and have remained terribly fraught by injuries and inconsistent performances. The latter is often indicative with young sides and there's a lot of optimism for a future when the young players introduced over the past three seasons mature and develop individually and as a group – The Oracle. The minor premiers, St. Kilda, having lost their past two games to Essendon and North Melbourne by less than a kick (or by a Riewoldt kick), venture to the MCG for the first time in season 2009. Unbelievable isn't it? That's just how things work out with such an uneven fixture, so if you hear any Saints fans whinge on the way to the game, be sure to point out what Melbourne is served up by Vlad and his puppets. With the finals the week after, the Saints and Rossy Lyon will be determined to put a stop to their form slump immediately by ramping up their game to such a level in preparation for the finals and what better place to do it than at the MCG? One of the areas the Saints haven't been going well at of late is the contested ball. They've been beaten in here in the last couple of weeks and their stats for contested ball have not been at the level they pride themselves on so the return of Luke Ball is significant. For Melbourne, it will be a somewhat sad affair. For Paul Wheatley, Matthew Whelan & Russell Robertson will grace the hallowed turf for the last time in the Red & Blue. Each have been fantastic contributors for the Melbourne Football Club, each have represented Melbourne in various finals campaigns and they each can hold their head high as they take the last walk off the ground in the Red & Blue in front of their beloved supporters on Sunday evening. Each of these players is well respected among their teammates and has devoted their time for the Melbourne Football Club on and off the field. All role models in their own right, not just for the supporters but for some of their teammates or brothers as well i.e. Wheels. Let's not forget that. I for one will be there to clap them at the conclusion of the game on Sunday. I'll remember Wheats for his tireless work in the back half, his long penetrating kicks and his 'Supergoals'. Wheels for his hardness, he's accountability and his speed within and around the backline. Robbo for his exciting high flying, many of his 420 odd goals and his emotion. I hope many Melbourne members/supporters do too – High Tower This is the Saints first game for the year at the 'G. Thus early results, along with emotion, will push the Demons to play the day at breakneck speed. The Saints will let us run early with basic accountability (within their structures) but they will be sure to take their opportunities when they no doubt present. As with last week I expect us go hot and cold but still toe to toe almost to the end of the first half. The stats that matter at that time: Robbo: One reel of highlights and a sausage or four. Wheels: One forward snag and one legal crunch (Milne?). Wheats: A dash along the wing to bomb one from 65m. Youth: Full complement of multi-role red-hot-go delivered. Then we'll get shut down. We'll get tired and (hopefully not ) injured. It's then all about what's left and at what level that can be delivered. The second half won't be pretty. I'm hoping Richmond last year is as bad as it might be but the Saints will be merciless. Not that the Demons will surrender until the final siren, they will simply, evidently, be outclassed. The day though belongs to the retirees (even if club only). One more time around boys, thanks again - Trident THE GAME Melbourne v St. Kilda at the MCG – Sunday 30 August 2009 at 2.10 pm HEAD TO HEAD Overall Melbourne 118 wins St. Kilda 80 wins 1 drawn MCG Melbourne 58 wins St. Kilda 30 wins Since 2000 Melbourne 9 wins St. Kilda 5 wins The Coaches Bailey 0 wins Lyon 2 wins MEDIA TV Channel 7 3.000 pm (1 hour delay) RADIO ABC774 K-Rock SEN Triple M 3AW THE BETTING Melbourne to win $11.00 St. Kilda to win $1.02 (thank god they're going through a slump!) THE LAST TIME THEY MET St. Kilda 11.17.83 defeated Melbourne 6.10.46 – Round 10, 2009 at Carrara Melbourne took it right up to St. Kilda in a pressure packed first half in Round 10 at Carrara and trailed the Saints by only eight points at the main break. However, the Demons noticeably tired after the interval and went defensive allowing the undefeated league leaders to strangle them in the process. Riewoldt kicked four for St. Kilda while Hayes, Jones and Dal Santo did the damage. Cameron Bruce, Colin Sylvia and Brad Green were the best of the Demons. THE TEAMS MELBOURNE Backs Clint Bartram James Frawley Nathan Jones Half backs Kyle Cheney Jared Rivers Cale Morton Centreline Paul Wheatley Lynden Dunn James McDonald Half forwards Aaron Davey Russell Robertson Colin Sylvia Forwards Neville Jetta Liam Jurrah Brad Miller Followers Jake Spencer Brent Moloney Brock McLean Interchange Jamie Bennell Mark Jamar Jordie McKenzie Matthew Whelan Emergencies Tom McNamara Stefan Martin Shane Valenti In Clint Bartram Jamie Bennell Lynden Dunn Nathan Jones Brad Miller Paul Wheatley Out Matthew Bate (chest/lung) Paul Johnson (omitted) Tom McNamara (omitted) Stefan Martin (omitted) Ricky Petterd (adductor) Shane Valenti (omitted) ST. KILDA Backs Raphael Clarke Zac Dawson Steven Baker Half backs Sam Fisher Jason Blake Sam Gilbert Centreline Brendon Goddard Lenny Hayes Nick Dal Santo Half forwards Andrew McQualter Justin Koschitzke Clint Jones Forwards Stephen Milne Nick Riewoldt Jason Gram Followers Steven King Leigh Montagna Adam Schneider Interchange Sean Dempster Robert Eddy Ben McEvoy Farren Ray Emergencies Luke Ball Jarryn Geary Jack Steven In Robert Eddy Lenny Hayes Ben McEvoy Out David Armitage (omitted) Matthew Gardiner (hamstring soreness) James Gwilt (omitted) On the selection front there's been a lot of focus on injuries. Most of the talk has been about Nick Riewoldt with the paparazzi chasing him around town earlier in the week like the late Princess Di to check up on the scans on his injured knee. Lenny Hayes and Max Hudghton have also come under scrutiny over their mystery ailments. Meanwhile, nobody gives a rat's about the fact that Melbourne's injury list continues to nudge around 20. Having your players fit at the end of a long, hard season is vital. Just ask Collingwood which is about to take over flag favouritism from the Saints and the Cats. The Maggies have only one player on their injured list, Tristan Francis, and nobody's ever heard of him. That's why they're so hot at the minute. But even without some of their stars, the Saints would be starting favourites in this game despite the unfamiliarity of the territory. The fact that they will have most of their guns available makes the Saints almost unbackable to win and win well in the biggest mismatch of the season – Demon Head So Sunday afternoon at the G at 2.10 begins the last game of the home and away season for Melbourne. It's the last game on the hallowed ground before the following week's finals. Of the two teams competing this day one looks to this September with legitimate expectations the other looks to games far more distant in time if finals are to be considered. The Saints will be expecting a result far better than their history against the home side would suggest . Having played 88 times at the G Melbourne has triumphed on 58 of those occurrences but they were possibly in better times. It isn't without reason that St. Kilda sits atop the ladder and Melbourne diametrically at the opposite end on the bottom. The two sides will have only one thing in common this Sunday and that's the colour and shape of the ball. St. Kilda's window is firmly open and the breeze blows strong. Melbourne's is quietly closed for the moment awaiting the finishing touches to renovation before pushing it ajar. Whilst there ought to be a spirited contest only one team really has anything immediate to play for and I expect this to be very much a tune up and reminder of winning for the Saints. Melbourne will bid farewell to a trio of club stalwarts. Two different teams at two different moments in the evolutionary cycle called football. Barring further injury to the Demons a valiant if unsuccessful day will probably play out with a recorded loss of 7-8 goals to the home side - Belzebub59 Bottom V Top, Hell V Heaven, Demons V Saints, Bad V Good, Draft Hope V Premiership Hope, Melbourne V St. Kilda. One team playing to lose, the other couldn't lose if it tried. One squad moving from veterans to the young, the other firmly entrenched in the here and now. One group of supporters coming to farewell the past and witness the future, or at least part of it, the other group coming because it's their first chance to see their heroes at the home of Football. Like Mecca for Muslims, Bodhgaya for Buddhists, Jerusalem for Christians, the local clinic for Pies fans, it's a must to come to the MCG, to revel in the history, to breath in the future and to hope, to hope that in 4 weeks time it's their team that's alive and holding up that Cup. In reality, the game will be about finishing off a season that for Melbourne finished long ago, with just the need to lose once more to receive the final input of hope for the future. That of Thomas "second Son of God" Scully, the anointed heir apparent to the throne held for a year by one Jackyboy "Son of God" Watts. For the Melbourne faithful it's one more position filled toward that elusive 13th premiership team. If Scully and Watts turn out to be half as good as is hoped, no expected, then Melbourne is in safe hands. For being a Melbourne supporter is and for a long time, has been about hope, hope that one day we will be feared again, one day we will be winners again. For mine I feel that day is coming. A day when the September sun shines on a Dais with Red and Blue balloons filling the air, 104,879 rabid fans celebrating in the glory that is the coming of the Lord, or in this case, Melbourne Premiership captain Jack Watts to receive his Norm Smith Medal. That day had its seeds in the here and now. Jim Stynes, Chris Connolly, Cameron Schwab and a committed Melbourne Board and family has planted those seeds, Dean Bailey is tending those seeds, ensuring that we get an excellent strike rate, one that offers us the opportunity we so richly deserve. So when you wake up on Sunday and think why would I want to go to the Football today? Think of the past, think of Matty Whelan's shoulder and James Hird's head, think of his dash from half back, think of the tackles, think of his heart. Think of Paul Wheatley's first super goal, think of his efforts to overcome injury, think of his love for the jumper. Remember Russell Robertson's trademark leap, think of all those goals and think of his ability to do it for this great club. For F**k's sake if that doesn't get you there then come and see the future. Watch as Liam Jurrah does things that only he can do, watch as Aaron Davey mesmerises the opposition with his grace and flair, watch as Nathan Jones puts his head over the ball time and time again, watch a revitalised Jared Rivers back into a pack to repel another attack, watch as you witness the makings of the next great AFL team. As supporters we have a duty, a duty to support our team, so get out of bed, get your gear on and get on down to the G, because there's 22 players, a coach, a truly dedicated President and countless others who are all going to be there giving it there all to put this club back on top where it belongs! - Roost It Saints by 62 We at Demonland would like to thank all who participated in this match preview and in all of the match previews during the year. It's not easy to come back week after week and try to write something positive about the club so thanks again and let's hope that in 2010 we'll be previewing and writing about many more victories!

Agreed. Thread locked.

Tell us who you think will win and why ... your features of the game ... the highlights and what you're looking forward to ... The best efforts in the estimation of our judging panel will be included in this week's match preview. Let's see your best efforts on Melbourne v St. Kilda

AGAINST THE WIND by KC from Casey The Casey Scorpions faced near impossible task in the penultimate round of the 2009 VFL season. With AFL alignment partner Melbourne suffering a long injury list, the Scorpions had no option but to continue bringing young home grown talent into the team. That they managed to overcome their own demons and win a close encounter against quality opposition has gained them the admiration and respect of their supporters and the football public at large. However, as coach Peter German would be quick to add, there's still a long way to go. Following last week's bye, the Scorpions were expected to come up fresh and with the aid of additional AFL players to assist the cause against the ladder leaders but that source was closed off by even more injuries at Melbourne and, as a result, this week's newcomers Josh Bolton and Jed Costigan were added to the long list of players – more than half the side – with less than 10 matches at this level. By way of contrast, Williamstown had no shortage of Bulldogs available and even had the luxury of playing a few of them in the reserves. With a strong group of seasoned VFL stars they were entitled to start strong favourites so when they kicked off with the aid of the strong northerly and goaled within the first few minutes, it looked as if everything would go according to the anticipated script for the day. But the young Scorpions had other ideas. They defended grimly and with great discipline against the strong freshening breeze and managed to bottle the game up on the defensive side for long periods. They even ran the ball forward on a few occasions but messed up a couple of scoring opportunities before conceding Willy a second goal at the 27 minute mark of the quarter to trail by just 15 points at the first change. Casey was well served down back by Peter Faulks with James Wall pushing back when needed to lend assistance. Pocket rocket Michael Stockdale was in superb touch bobbing up everywhere on his way to 25 kicks 10 handballs and three marks. He was joined by Alex Silvagni, moved out of necessity to the midfield where he finished with 19 disposals and 5 marks. The Scorpions were fortunate to have Tim Mohr in the ruck as a replacement for Mark Jamar who was called up the previous day to play for the Demons. Skipper Kyle Matthews was busy in and under packs and tackling hard like a terrier and Ben MacReadie racking up 10 kicks, 17 handballs and 3 marks and providing a contest for the ball. Casey attacked with the wind and after a string of six behinds, Nick Scanlon marked strongly and passed to Ben Waite for its first goal three minutes into the second quarter. A long kick from Mohr bounced through and the visitors' lead had been cut to a point. Then a struggle ensued in which the home team's midfield held sway but the forwards were struggling to convert in the windy conditions. The sole Melbourne senior listed player was Jamie Bennell and he provided great run off half back in this term with the Scorpions prepared to kick the ball long and move the ball quickly. They finally took the initiative with late goals to Demon rookie Trent Zomer and Waite for his second to hold a 13 point lead at the main break. The Seagulls came out after half time determined to stamp their control over the proceedings and took little time to make up the leeway. They hit the front with two goals to the nine minute mark but, just as they looked like running away with the game, they started spraying their shots at goal in a wasteful display of forward play. When Casey went forward it was rewarded with a goal to Scanlon - the first for the game against the wind. As a result, Willy held an 11 point lead going into the final quarter and kicking against the wind. Despite the advantage of kicking with almost a gale force wind, there was some fear among Scorpion fans that the team might tire against AFL hardened opposition. German asked for a big final quarter effort requiring his players to play smart, play on and keep moving the ball to advantage at all times. It paid dividends but the Williamstown players persisted throughout and managed to kick a one against the wind. Mohr who had recently been sidelined through injury for several weeks was inspirational kicking two goals and Matthews one as Casey showed a ton of guts to grab the lead at 28 minutes. The Seagulls momentarily snatched it back amid flashbacks of the game earlier this year at Williamstown when they won the game with a goal at the death. However, this time the Scorpions prevailed. Faulks booted a long bomb at the 31 minute mark to give them a five point lead and it seemed an eternity of nervous excitement before Wade Lees, who had been busy all day with 25 touches, took a mark and the siren sounded as he lined up for goal. The result was a point but it didn't matter. Casey had finally won a close one. The late August winds sweep across Casey Fields long after the celebrations were over. The Scorpions, fresh from a significant win over ladder leader and premiership favourite Williamstown, are aware that the season is yet to run its full course: there's still more work to be done and little time to reflect on their famous victory over the Seagulls. There's an away fixture at Box Hill and an outside chance of slipping into the top four next week for starters. HOW THE DEMONS FARED I hope that next week we see a substantially increased contribution from Melbourne players because you can't buy or bottle what Peter German has done for his team this year and the enthusiasm and desperate thirst for success that he has endowed on this group is awesome. The Demons can learn from this and should not underplay the importance for young players of playing finals football even at this level. German's assessment of the two Demons from melbournefc.com.au: Jamie Bennell 10 kicks, 4 handballs, 4 tackles "Jamie played well. He played across half-back and defensively he did a good job on his man. He was also prepared to run off and rebound, setting up two or three goals. Jamie now seems to be over his injury and should be looking for a recall to Melbourne in round 22." Trent Zomer 4 kicks, 2 handballs, 2 marks, 1 tackle Trent played centre half-forward. We didn't have too many talls, so he was given that responsibility as a target. It was a tough day for forwards, but Trent made some good contests and at times we asked him to play a sacrificial role. So he played reasonably well. Casey Scorpions 0.4.4 4.8.32 5.8.38 9.13.67 Williamstown 2.7.19 2.7.19 5.19.49 7.19.61 Goals Casey Scorpions Mohr 3 Waite 2 Faulks Matthews Scanlon Zomer Williamstown Everitt Galea Gotch Joyce O'Keefe Skipper Stack Best Casey Scorpions MacReadie Stockdale Mohr Lees Faulks Silvagni Williamstown O'Keefe Johnson Skipper Stretton Callan Wood Reported Josh Bolton (Casey Scorpions) for charging Dean Galea (Williamstown) This may sound like a broken record but it would be fair to say that the Scorpions were once again severely undermanned. The result was a predictable loss against a leading finals contender. Scott MacLeod was named his team's best. HOW THE DEMON FARED Again from Peter German's assessment at melbournefc.com.au: Paul Wheatley "Paul suited up and did the warm up, but we didn't want to take the risk, because he wants to set himself for Melbourne. We didn't want to put any pressure on him, when it will be a big day for him this week." I dips me lid to Paul on a fantastic career with the Demons and for being such a great club man that he is prepared to get himself qualified to help the alignment at finals time. That's a lot more than I can say for some other players in the past. Casey Scorpions 1.2.8 1.2.8 4.2.26 5.2.32 Williamstown 3.4.22 8.13.61 11.18.84 19.25.139 Goals Casey Scorpions Sykes 2 Blackie MacLeod Virtue Williamstown Cordy Cravino Langlands Ogle O'Shea Rampe Shaw Tanner 2 Jones Lockwood Lynch Best Casey Scorpions MacLeod Dean Clay Bolton Collins Terry Williamstown Langlands Lockwood Rampe Wight Young Cravino

by KC from Casey The Casey Scorpions faced near impossible task in the penultimate round of the 2009 VFL season. With AFL alignment partner Melbourne suffering a long injury list, the Scorpions had no option but to continue bringing young home grown talent into the team. That they managed to overcome their own demons and win a close encounter against quality opposition has gained them the admiration and respect of their supporters and the football public at large. However, as coach Peter German would be quick to add, there's still a long way to go. Following last week's bye, the Scorpions were expected to come up fresh and with the aid of additional AFL players to assist the cause against the ladder leaders but that source was closed off by even more injuries at Melbourne and, as a result, this week's newcomers Josh Bolton and Jed Costigan were added to the long list of players – more than half the side – with less than 10 matches at this level. By way of contrast, Williamstown had no shortage of Bulldogs available and even had the luxury of playing a few of them in the reserves. With a strong group of seasoned VFL stars they were entitled to start strong favourites so when they kicked off with the aid of the strong northerly and goaled within the first few minutes, it looked as if everything would go according to the anticipated script for the day. But the young Scorpions had other ideas. They defended grimly and with great discipline against the strong freshening breeze and managed to bottle the game up on the defensive side for long periods. They even ran the ball forward on a few occasions but messed up a couple of scoring opportunities before conceding Willy a second goal at the 27 minute mark of the quarter to trail by just 15 points at the first change. Casey was well served down back by Peter Faulks with James Wall pushing back when needed to lend assistance. Pocket rocket Michael Stockdale was in superb touch bobbing up everywhere on his way to 25 kicks 10 handballs and three marks. He was joined by Alex Silvagni, moved out of necessity to the midfield where he finished with 19 disposals and 5 marks. The Scorpions were fortunate to have Tim Mohr in the ruck as a replacement for Mark Jamar who was called up the previous day to play for the Demons. Skipper Kyle Matthews was busy in and under packs and tackling hard like a terrier and Ben MacReadie racking up 10 kicks, 17 handballs and 3 marks and providing a contest for the ball. Casey attacked with the wind and after a string of six behinds, Nick Scanlon marked strongly and passed to Ben Waite for its first goal three minutes into the second quarter. A long kick from Mohr bounced through and the visitors' lead had been cut to a point. Then a struggle ensued in which the home team's midfield held sway but the forwards were struggling to convert in the windy conditions. The sole Melbourne senior listed player was Jamie Bennell and he provided great run off half back in this term with the Scorpions prepared to kick the ball long and move the ball quickly. They finally took the initiative with late goals to Demon rookie Trent Zomer and Waite for his second to hold a 13 point lead at the main break. The Seagulls came out after half time determined to stamp their control over the proceedings and took little time to make up the leeway. They hit the front with two goals to the nine minute mark but, just as they looked like running away with the game, they started spraying their shots at goal in a wasteful display of forward play. When Casey went forward it was rewarded with a goal to Scanlon - the first for the game against the wind. As a result, Willy held an 11 point lead going into the final quarter and kicking against the wind. Despite the advantage of kicking with almost a gale force wind, there was some fear among Scorpion fans that the team might tire against AFL hardened opposition. German asked for a big final quarter effort requiring his players to play smart, play on and keep moving the ball to advantage at all times. It paid dividends but the Williamstown players persisted throughout and managed to kick a one against the wind. Mohr who had recently been sidelined through injury for several weeks was inspirational kicking two goals and Matthews one as Casey showed a ton of guts to grab the lead at 28 minutes. The Seagulls momentarily snatched it back amid flashbacks of the game earlier this year at Williamstown when they won the game with a goal at the death. However, this time the Scorpions prevailed. Faulks booted a long bomb at the 31 minute mark to give them a five point lead and it seemed an eternity of nervous excitement before Wade Lees, who had been busy all day with 25 touches, took a mark and the siren sounded as he lined up for goal. The result was a point but it didn't matter. Casey had finally won a close one. The late August winds sweep across Casey Fields long after the celebrations were over. The Scorpions, fresh from a significant win over ladder leader and premiership favourite Williamstown, are aware that the season is yet to run its full course: there's still more work to be done and little time to reflect on their famous victory over the Seagulls. There's an away fixture at Box Hill and an outside chance of slipping into the top four next week for starters. HOW THE DEMONS FARED I hope that next week we see a substantially increased contribution from Melbourne players because you can't buy or bottle what Peter German has done for his team this year and the enthusiasm and desperate thirst for success that he has endowed on this group is awesome. The Demons can learn from this and should not underplay the importance for young players of playing finals football even at this level. German's assessment of the two Demons from melbournefc.com.au: Jamie Bennell 10 kicks, 4 handballs, 4 tackles "Jamie played well. He played across half-back and defensively he did a good job on his man. He was also prepared to run off and rebound, setting up two or three goals. Jamie now seems to be over his injury and should be looking for a recall to Melbourne in round 22." Trent Zomer 4 kicks, 2 handballs, 2 marks, 1 tackle Trent played centre half-forward. We didn't have too many talls, so he was given that responsibility as a target. It was a tough day for forwards, but Trent made some good contests and at times we asked him to play a sacrificial role. So he played reasonably well. Casey Scorpions 0.4.4 4.8.32 5.8.38 9.13.67 Williamstown 2.7.19 2.7.19 5.19.49 7.19.61 Goals Casey Scorpions Mohr 3 Waite 2 Faulks Matthews Scanlon Zomer Williamstown Everitt Galea Gotch Joyce O'Keefe Skipper Stack Best Casey Scorpions MacReadie Stockdale Mohr Lees Faulks Silvagni Williamstown O'Keefe Johnson Skipper Stretton Callan Wood Reported Josh Bolton (Casey Scorpions) for charging Dean Galea (Williamstown) This may sound like a broken record but it would be fair to say that the Scorpions were once again severely undermanned. The result was a predictable loss against a leading finals contender. Scott MacLeod was named his team's best. HOW THE DEMON FARED Again from Peter German's assessment at melbournefc.com.au: Paul Wheatley "Paul suited up and did the warm up, but we didn't want to take the risk, because he wants to set himself for Melbourne. We didn't want to put any pressure on him, when it will be a big day for him this week." I dips me lid to Paul on a fantastic career with the Demons and for being such a great club man that he is prepared to get himself qualified to help the alignment at finals time. That's a lot more than I can say for some other players in the past. Casey Scorpions 1.2.8 1.2.8 4.2.26 5.2.32 Williamstown 3.4.22 8.13.61 11.18.84 19.25.139 Goals Casey Scorpions Sykes 2 Blackie MacLeod Virtue Williamstown Cordy Cravino Langlands Ogle O'Shea Rampe Shaw Tanner 2 Jones Lockwood Lynch Best Casey Scorpions MacLeod Dean Clay Bolton Collins Terry Williamstown Langlands Lockwood Rampe Wight Young Cravino

Just got an sms from KC. A famous victory for Casey 9.13.67 to 7.19.61. A 75 metre goal at the 31 minute mark to Peter Faulks from the middle of the ground sealed the game - what a heart stopper!

The main battle is over and second place is also just about done and dusted. There's still a keen battle for third place: 154.055 Aaron Davey 90.172 Brent Moloney 71.561 Brock McLean 68.665 Cale Morton 61.028 Nathan Jones 60.559 Cameron Bruce 58.014 Colin Sylvia 53.732 Jack Grimes 46.415 Ricky Petterd 42.414 Mark Jamar 39.609 James Frawley 37.985 Brad Green 36.144 Matthew Bate 36.065 Jared Rivers 33.646 Matthew Warnock 31.467 James McDonald 21.535 Neville Jetta 20.529 Liam Jurrah 19.408 Brad Miller 17.363 Shane Valenti 14.404 Paul Johnson 13.126 Russell Robertson 11.207 Stefan Martin 10.053 Kyle Cheney 9.952 Addam Maric 8.827 Jamie Bennell 8.015 Clint Bartram 2.742 Lynden Dunn 1.488 Tom McNamara 0.613 John Meesen

Apparently Mr. Phil Scully who is young Tom's real father would not like the garbage put out about his parenthood of the favourite for the # 1 draft pick. I'm therefore locking this thread.

by Whispering Jack So bizarre was the scenario that was painted for Melbourne's penultimate game of the 2009 season against Carlton that it was reminiscent of a story of heroism that could have come straight out of the movies. However, the tale that comes to mind isn't from one of the epic sagas like "High Noon" or "Shane" but rather more of the style of "Blazing Saddles". In that film, Politician Hedley Lamar tries to take over Rock Ridge in order to put his railroad through the town. His early attempts to intimidate the townsfolk almost work: Reverend Johnson: "Now I don't have to tell you good folks what's been happening in our beloved little town. Sheriff murdered, crops burned, stores looted, people stampeded, and cattle raped. The time has come to act, and act fast. I'm leaving." Not all of the good people of Rock Ridge are frightened so easily and most remain defiant. So Lamar has comes up with Plan B: Hedley Lamarr: [to himself] "A sheriff! But law and order is the last thing I want. Wait a minute... maybe I could turn this thing into my advantage. If I could find a sheriff who so offends the citizens of Rock Ridge that his very appearance would drive them out of town." Now, as Robbie Burns used to say about the best laid schemes of mice and men, "they go often askew". Black Bart, the new sheriff, has a different plan - he becomes the hero. Lamar's grand plan backfires and he ends up a ruined man. And now back to the football. For some time, the Demons have been like the folk down there in Rock Ridge - fighting hard for their survival. They needed a plan of their own to help them out of their troubles. Well, whatever the plan was that they devised in order to overcome the rampant Blues (and I'm assuming there was a plan and that the objective was to win), it came unstuck in rather a disastrous fashion when the Demons lost by 57 points yesterday. As a result, they now face the almost certain ignominy of ruin in AFL football - the wooden spoon. So what went wrong? As often happens, it all started at the selection table. Clint Bartram and Lynden Dunn, the club's best taggers, were left out of the team along with Brad Miller. Wait a minute! Those blokes put in reasonably decent performances last week, didn't they? And don't the Blues have a number of dangerous players worthy of being tagged or at least kept on a tight leash? Chris Judd? Marc Murphy, Bryce Gibbs? Anyone? Oh. That's right, we should never disabuse ourselves of the fact that selection is about anything other than "team balance" and therefore, in order to provide some of this much-needed team balance which must have been missing last week when the side achieved the club's biggest victory in three years and its first four quarter win since 2005, it was necessary to bring in a raw and underdone young ruckman in Jake Spencer, a second game rookie in Jordie McKenzie and a retiree in Matty Whelan. If this was Plan A, I couldn't wait to see Plan B which was already looming on the horizon when the siren blared to open proceedings at Etihad Stadium. Thankfully, the Carlton brains trust decided this game provided an opportunity for their team to play footloose and fancy-free and it turned into a high scoring affair that suited the forwards on both sides. The teams traded goal for goal for most of the first quarter with the Blues getting a late break and forging two goals ahead. The Demons had late inclusion Mark Jamar in fine fettle kicking goals up forward and they surged back a couple of times until the Blue Boys took control with a flurry of goals midway through the second term and they eventually took a 26-point lead into the rooms at half time. Brendan Fevola, who had been held under a tight rein to that stage by James Frawley, put the game well out of reach with four goals in the third term on his way to seven. The Demons had their share of heroes starting with two solid goal kicking contributors of five goals each to Jamar and Russell Robertson. Who could ever have guessed that they would produce two forwards who could kick that many for them in the same game? We haven't seen a five goal or better game from a Demon in yonks (since Robbo kicked 6 against the Blues in the famous tank game of round 22, 2007). Yesterday, at various stages they had a super tall forward set up with as many as three ruckmen up there at the same time. It's not certain whether this was part of Plan A or Plan B but a crumbing forward working at the feet of all those big men would also have been handy. The closest Melbourne had was a superb effort from first year player, Neville Jetta who had 24 touches and booted a couple of goals. Jetta wasn't the only youngster to impress. I'm really starting to like McKenzie for his persistence at the football. He could become something in the future. Skipper James McDonald and Aaron Davey were both handy although the latter started quietly. Matthew Bate and Colin Sylvia each staked separate claims for the year's biggest improver. Keep that up and they could be regular heroes. The more I look at this game, the more apparent it becomes that, despite the near 10 goal margin, things didn't go that wrong at all. Melbourne had its good and its bad patches in a game played by both sides at rather pedestrian pace but when you look at the team the Demons put on the park, could we really have expected much more from them? In their last start the Blues beat finals aspirants Port Adelaide by a similar margin at AAMI Stadium. The week before, they collected a big scalp in one of the premiership favourites Geelong. Not that long ago, the smashed the Swans at the Docklands by 10 goals. On that basis they should have destroyed an injury-plagued Melbourne by 100 points. I don't like using injuries as an excuse but the Demons had their share of players in the wars again yesterday. Ricky Petterd's groin went early and stalwart Matty Whelan tragically succumbed to a hamstring that will curtail his career to 149 games as a great servant of the Melbourne Football Club. Liam Jurrah was getting treatment at times in the first half but made it back onto the park in the second. The limitation on rotations, while not affecting the outcome, would certainly have affected the final margin as the Dees tired in the latter part of the game. No doubt some jerk in the media will pick up on the fact that the consequent reduced number of interchanges affected the team's performance and raise a suspicious eyebrow. That's what makes these people jerks! But the injury situation affected Melbourne's winning plans more deeply than simply adding to player fatigue at the end of a long, hard game at the end of a long, hard season. The twenty-two who represented the Melbourne Football Club against Carlton (including three uplifted rookies in McKenzie, Jake Spencer and Shane Valenti) were just about the remainder in an otherwise bare cupboard. One or two more will play at Casey today and that's all folks. Compare that with a Collingwood that was able to field a full contingent of their listed players in the VFL yesterday and the plight of the Demons in this the penultimate round of 2009 becomes clear. They had no other alternative but to come up with a weird and whacky game plan that appeared to be straight out of a Mel Brooks farce. Despite the big defeat, the young Demons, their coach and the football department still came out of the game smelling like roses which is much more than you can say about ! Melbourne 4.2.26 8.3.51 12.4.76 15.6.96 Carlton 6.3.39 12.5.77 18.9.127 24.9.153 Goals Melbourne Jamar Robertson 5 Jetta 2 Johnson Jurrah Moloney Carlton Fevola 7 Garlett 4 Simpson 3 Houlihan Scotland 2 Betts Carrazzo Gibbs Kreuzer Murphy O'hAilpin Best Melbourne McDonald Jamar Sylvia Jetta Bate Davey Robertson Carlton Gibbs Murphy Fevola Judd Garlett Carrazzo Houlihan Injuries Melbourne Petterd (adductor) Whelan (hamstring) Carlton Hadley (suspected broken arm) Changes Melbourne Jones (illness) replaced in selected side by Jamar Carlton Armfield (ankle) replaced in selected side by Anderson Reports - nil. Umpires Farmer James Pannell Crowd 37,433 at Etihad Stadium

45 Congratulations to Wheels on a great career ... sad to see it end this way.

Place your votes please 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1 ...

PENULTIMATE by Whispering Jack So bizarre was the scenario that was painted for Melbourne's penultimate game of the 2009 season against Carlton that it was reminiscent of a story of heroism that could have come straight out of the movies. However, the tale that comes to mind isn't from one of the epic sagas like "High Noon" or "Shane" but rather more of the style of "Blazing Saddles". In that film, Politician Hedley Lamar tries to take over Rock Ridge in order to put his railroad through the town. His early attempts to intimidate the townsfolk almost work: Reverend Johnson: "Now I don't have to tell you good folks what's been happening in our beloved little town. Sheriff murdered, crops burned, stores looted, people stampeded, and cattle raped. The time has come to act, and act fast. I'm leaving." Not all of the good people of Rock Ridge are frightened so easily and most remain defiant. So Lamar has comes up with Plan B: Hedley Lamarr: [to himself] "A sheriff! But law and order is the last thing I want. Wait a minute... maybe I could turn this thing into my advantage. If I could find a sheriff who so offends the citizens of Rock Ridge that his very appearance would drive them out of town." Now, as Robbie Burns used to say about the best laid schemes of mice and men, "they go often askew". Black Bart, the new sheriff, has a different plan - he becomes the hero. Lamar's grand plan backfires and he ends up a ruined man. And now back to the football. For some time, the Demons have been like the folk down there in Rock Ridge - fighting hard for their survival. They needed a plan of their own to help them out of their troubles. Well, whatever the plan was that they devised in order to overcome the rampant Blues (and I'm assuming there was a plan and that the objective was to win), it came unstuck in rather a disastrous fashion when the Demons lost by 57 points yesterday. As a result, they now face the almost certain ignominy of ruin in AFL football - the wooden spoon. So what went wrong? As often happens, it all started at the selection table. Clint Bartram and Lynden Dunn, the club's best taggers, were left out of the team along with Brad Miller. Wait a minute! Those blokes put in reasonably decent performances last week, didn't they? And don't the Blues have a number of dangerous players worthy of being tagged or at least kept on a tight leash? Chris Judd? Marc Murphy, Bryce Gibbs? Anyone? Oh. That's right, we should never disabuse ourselves of the fact that selection is about anything other than "team balance" and therefore, in order to provide some of this much-needed team balance which must have been missing last week when the side achieved the club's biggest victory in three years and its first four quarter win since 2005, it was necessary to bring in a raw and underdone young ruckman in Jake Spencer, a second game rookie in Jordie McKenzie and a retiree in Matty Whelan. If this was Plan A, I couldn't wait to see Plan B which was already looming on the horizon when the siren blared to open proceedings at Etihad Stadium. Thankfully, the Carlton brains trust decided this game provided an opportunity for their team to play footloose and fancy-free and it turned into a high scoring affair that suited the forwards on both sides. The teams traded goal for goal for most of the first quarter with the Blues getting a late break and forging two goals ahead. The Demons had late inclusion Mark Jamar in fine fettle kicking goals up forward and they surged back a couple of times until the Blue Boys took control with a flurry of goals midway through the second term and they eventually took a 26-point lead into the rooms at half time. Brendan Fevola, who had been held under a tight rein to that stage by James Frawley, put the game well out of reach with four goals in the third term on his way to seven. The Demons had their share of heroes starting with two solid goal kicking contributors of five goals each to Jamar and Russell Robertson. Who could ever have guessed that they would produce two forwards who could kick that many for them in the same game? We haven't seen a five goal or better game from a Demon in yonks (since Robbo kicked 6 against the Blues in the famous tank game of round 22, 2007). Yesterday, at various stages they had a super tall forward set up with as many as three ruckmen up there at the same time. It's not certain whether this was part of Plan A or Plan B but a crumbing forward working at the feet of all those big men would also have been handy. The closest Melbourne had was a superb effort from first year player, Neville Jetta who had 24 touches and booted a couple of goals. Jetta wasn't the only youngster to impress. I'm really starting to like McKenzie for his persistence at the football. He could become something in the future. Skipper James McDonald and Aaron Davey were both handy although the latter started quietly. Matthew Bate and Colin Sylvia each staked separate claims for the year's biggest improver. Keep that up and they could be regular heroes. The more I look at this game, the more apparent it becomes that, despite the near 10 goal margin, things didn't go that wrong at all. Melbourne had its good and its bad patches in a game played by both sides at rather pedestrian pace but when you look at the team the Demons put on the park, could we really have expected much more from them? In their last start the Blues beat finals aspirants Port Adelaide by a similar margin at AAMI Stadium. The week before, they collected a big scalp in one of the premiership favourites Geelong. Not that long ago, the smashed the Swans at the Docklands by 10 goals. On that basis they should have destroyed an injury-plagued Melbourne by 100 points. I don't like using injuries as an excuse but the Demons had their share of players in the wars again yesterday. Ricky Petterd's groin went early and stalwart Matty Whelan tragically succumbed to a hamstring that will curtail his career to 149 games as a great servant of the Melbourne Football Club. Liam Jurrah was getting treatment at times in the first half but made it back onto the park in the second. The limitation on rotations, while not affecting the outcome, would certainly have affected the final margin as the Dees tired in the latter part of the game. No doubt some jerk in the media will pick up on the fact that the consequent reduced number of interchanges affected the team's performance and raise a suspicious eyebrow. That's what makes these people jerks! But the injury situation affected Melbourne's winning plans more deeply than simply adding to player fatigue at the end of a long, hard game at the end of a long, hard season. The twenty-two who represented the Melbourne Football Club against Carlton (including three uplifted rookies in McKenzie, Jake Spencer and Shane Valenti) were just about the remainder in an otherwise bare cupboard. One or two more will play at Casey today and that's all folks. Compare that with a Collingwood that was able to field a full contingent of their listed players in the VFL yesterday and the plight of the Demons in this the penultimate round of 2009 becomes clear. They had no other alternative but to come up with a weird and whacky game plan that appeared to be straight out of a Mel Brooks farce. Despite the big defeat, the young Demons, their coach and the football department still came out of the game smelling like roses which is much more than you can say about ! Melbourne 4.2.26 8.3.51 12.4.76 15.6.96 Carlton 6.3.39 12.5.77 18.9.127 24.9.153 Goals Melbourne Jamar Robertson 5 Jetta 2 Johnson Jurrah Moloney Carlton Fevola 7 Garlett 4 Simpson 3 Houlihan Scotland 2 Betts Carrazzo Gibbs Kreuzer Murphy O'hAilpin Best Melbourne McDonald Jamar Sylvia Jetta Bate Davey Robertson Carlton Gibbs Murphy Fevola Judd Garlett Carrazzo Houlihan Injuries Melbourne Petterd (adductor) Whelan (hamstring) Carlton Hadley (suspected broken arm) Changes Melbourne Jones (illness) replaced in selected side by Jamar Carlton Armfield (ankle) replaced in selected side by Anderson Reports - nil. Umpires Farmer James Pannell Crowd 37,433 at Etihad Stadium

TANKS FOR THE MEMORIES by The Oracle The end of a football season comes very quickly for the teams that miss the cut for the finals. In a matter of ten days time, it will be mothballs for eight clubs including Melbourne although I doubt whether, apart from those who are retiring or who will be delisted, that there will be many regrets. One should never mourn over a bad deal. Rather, one moves on and looks forward to better days. Over the next ten days there are two games left for Melbourne - both of the eminently losable fixtures against finals competitors in Carlton and St. Kilda. Most of us will be hoping that during this period, time moves quickly enough to allow us to negotiate these fixtures with a minimum of pain and then to get on with the rest of our lives. The latter part of the season has been particularly hellish for the Demons because of the spectre of "tanking", a phenomenon the AFL does not recognise (which conveniently absolves it of the necessity of coming up with a solution). The circumstances of the introduction of two new clubs in 2010 and 2011 respectively and the new drafting rules to cater for their entry will temporarily remove the annual tanking discussion but it's likely to return once things have settled down. The problem in arriving at a solution for something that does not officially exist is that there will always be someone out there prepared to break the spirit of the law if not the actual law itself. One solution to tanking might simply be in changing the way the fixture is structured. The bottom teams from the year before could be drawn against each other early and play each other twice, thereby determining early on in the piece which teams, if any, are candidates for draft concessions in the following year. In both 2008 and 2009 Melbourne had the tough end of the draw early but imagine if the fixture this year had provided for home games against interstate clubs West Coast, Port Adelaide, Fremantle and even Sydney in the first half of the season instead of near the end? The Demons might have had a 4/6 or 5/5 record by round ten and with far greater interest and incentive for the remainder of the season. And with the top teams from the year before all playing against each other, the AFL would still be assured of better crowds. Unfortunately, the AFL insists instead on a programme that's tailor made for its high roller clubs like Collingwood and Carlton. That's why we see the Magpies accumulating the least amount of frequent flyer points annually and why they conveniently managed to avoid return fixtures against three of last year's top four Hawthorn, Geelong and St. Kilda altogether this year despite making it all the way to the semi finals last year. The Pies don't have to play a return match against the last of the quartet, the Western Bulldogs till round 22. Without taking anything away from their performance this year, Collingwood has benefitted from a dream programme which is probably worth 8 to 12 premiership points. That's fine if it happens to be the luck of the draw but we know that's not the case because they benefit from a skewed programme every year. But I digress with my ranting although I will come back to the fixture later. The rest of the season from an injury wracked Melbourne point of view is looking decidedly tough. Carlton needs to finish well in order to secure the best possible position in the lead up to their first finals appearance after eight years in the wilderness. St. Kilda has been stung by its first defeat for the season and will be determined to perform at its best in what will be its only home and away appearance at the MCG. The Demons could well succumb to a couple of beltings before their third annus horribilus in a row comes to an end. But so what? Last weekend we saw Essendon take a strong grip on a final eight place with a sensational victory against the previously undefeated Saints at the Docklands. At the same ground twelve months ago they lost to the same team by over 100 points in their final game for the season and the sky didn't fall in on the Bombers. That's why I say – "tanks but no tanks for the memories and bring on 2010"! THE GAME Carlton v Melbourne at Etihad Stadium - Saturday 22 August 2009 at 2.10pm HEAD TO HEAD Overall Carlton 110 wins Melbourne 90 wins 2 draws At Etihad Stadium Carlton 2 wins Melbourne 1 win Since 2000 Carlton 5 wins Melbourne 8 wins The Coaches Ratten 1 win Bailey 0 wins MEDIA Channel 10 at 3.00pm (delayed) RADIO ABC774 Triple M 3AW THE BETTING (Don't even think about it!) Carlton to win $1.08 Melbourne to win $7.00 LAST TIME THEY MET Carlton 15.11.101 defeated Melbourne 9.14.68 Round 5, 2008, at The MCG The Demons were more than competitive at the start and took the lead at one stage in the second term before Judd and Fevola blew them away. Brad Green was in good form with four goals but Melbourne left its charge till far too late. This was skipper David Neitz's last game for the club. He went off with an injured neck and announced his retirement not long after this game. THE TEAMS CARLTON Backs Aaron Joseph Bret Thornton Jordan Russell Half backs Dennis Armfield Paul Bower Ryan Houlihan Centreline Heath Scotland Marc Murphy Bryce Gibbs Half forwards Kade Simpson Andrew Walker Chris Judd Forwards Eddie Betts Brendan Fevola Setanta O'hAilpin Followers Matthew Kreuzer Nick Stevens Richard Hadley Interchange Andrew Carrazzo Cameron Cloke Jeff Garlett Simon Wiggins Emergencies Joe Anderson Sam Jacobs Chris Yarran In Jeff Garlett Out Mitch Robinson (foot) MELBOURNE Backs Matthew Whelan James Frawley Cale Morton Half backs Kyle Cheney Jared Rivers Tom McNamara Centreline Colin Sylvia Brent Moloney Aaron Davey Half forwards Nathan Jones Russell Robertson Liam Jurrah Forwards Paul Johnson Stefan Martin Brock McLean Followers Jake Spencer Neville Jetta Matthew Bate Interchange James McDonald Jordie McKenzie Ricky Petterd Shane Valenti Emergencies Clint Bartram Jamie Bennell Mark Jamar In Jordie McKenzie Jake Spencer Matthew Whelan Out Clint Bartram Lynden Dunn Brad Miller 2009: A SPACE ODDITY Saturday's fixture against the Blues is an odd one in that, even in these days of flaky AFL engineered programmes, the length of time elapsed since the two teams last met has been unusually long. Their last encounter was in early 2008 when David Neitz was going around for the Demons. In fact, that round five fixture was his last game and his club has undergone a massive rebuilding programme ever since: one that is bound to continue into 2010. Before that, the teams met in the surreal final round of 2007 when the Blues triumphantly completed the first (and probably last) "grand slam of tanking" to claim a priority draft selection by losing every game of the last half of an AFL season. The prize of course, was Matthew Kreuzer, Chris Judd, an entree into this year's finals and who knows what further glory lies in store for the Blues in the near future? For the victors in that fateful final game from two years ago, there were few spoils. The Demons bottomed out badly in the post Daniher era, the rebuilding process has been painfully slow and the light at the end of the tunnel seems distant and dim although they are accumulating some handy young footballers for the day when they eventually break out into the sunlight. To that end, many would say that Melbourne has followed Carlton's 2007 blueprint (pun intended) and, if that's true, then one doesn't have to be a rocket scientist to predict the outcome of this game. The Blues are two years further advanced in talent, experience and maturity and have all the incentive in the world not to lose. And you can bet the sheep station on the fact that they won't allow Melbourne's best playmaker the luxury of roaming the paddock unchecked all game this time. Carlton by a handy margin.

by The Oracle The end of a football season comes very quickly for the teams that miss the cut for the finals. In a matter of ten days time, it will be mothballs for eight clubs including Melbourne although I doubt whether, apart from those who are retiring or who will be delisted, that there will be many regrets. One should never mourn over a bad deal. Rather, one moves on and looks forward to better days. Over the next ten days there are two games left for Melbourne - both of the eminently losable fixtures against finals competitors in Carlton and St. Kilda. Most of us will be hoping that during this period, time moves quickly enough to allow us to negotiate these fixtures with a minimum of pain and then to get on with the rest of our lives. The latter part of the season has been particularly hellish for the Demons because of the spectre of "tanking", a phenomenon the AFL does not recognise (which conveniently absolves it of the necessity of coming up with a solution). The circumstances of the introduction of two new clubs in 2010 and 2011 respectively and the new drafting rules to cater for their entry will temporarily remove the annual tanking discussion but it's likely to return once things have settled down. The problem in arriving at a solution for something that does not officially exist is that there will always be someone out there prepared to break the spirit of the law if not the actual law itself. One solution to tanking might simply be in changing the way the fixture is structured. The bottom teams from the year before could be drawn against each other early and play each other twice, thereby determining early on in the piece which teams, if any, are candidates for draft concessions in the following year. In both 2008 and 2009 Melbourne had the tough end of the draw early but imagine if the fixture this year had provided for home games against interstate clubs West Coast, Port Adelaide, Fremantle and even Sydney in the first half of the season instead of near the end? The Demons might have had a 4/6 or 5/5 record by round ten and with far greater interest and incentive for the remainder of the season. And with the top teams from the year before all playing against each other, the AFL would still be assured of better crowds. Unfortunately, the AFL insists instead on a programme that's tailor made for its high roller clubs like Collingwood and Carlton. That's why we see the Magpies accumulating the least amount of frequent flyer points annually and why they conveniently managed to avoid return fixtures against three of last year's top four Hawthorn, Geelong and St. Kilda altogether this year despite making it all the way to the semi finals last year. The Pies don't have to play a return match against the last of the quartet, the Western Bulldogs till round 22. Without taking anything away from their performance this year, Collingwood has benefitted from a dream programme which is probably worth 8 to 12 premiership points. That's fine if it happens to be the luck of the draw but we know that's not the case because they benefit from a skewed programme every year. But I digress with my ranting although I will come back to the fixture later. The rest of the season from an injury wracked Melbourne point of view is looking decidedly tough. Carlton needs to finish well in order to secure the best possible position in the lead up to their first finals appearance after eight years in the wilderness. St. Kilda has been stung by its first defeat for the season and will be determined to perform at its best in what will be its only home and away appearance at the MCG. The Demons could well succumb to a couple of beltings before their third annus horribilus in a row comes to an end. But so what? Last weekend we saw Essendon take a strong grip on a final eight place with a sensational victory against the previously undefeated Saints at the Docklands. At the same ground twelve months ago they lost to the same team by over 100 points in their final game for the season and the sky didn't fall in on the Bombers. That's why I say – "tanks but no tanks for the memories and bring on 2010"! THE GAME Carlton v Melbourne at Etihad Stadium - Saturday 22 August 2009 at 2.10pm HEAD TO HEAD Overall Carlton 110 wins Melbourne 90 wins 2 draws At Etihad Stadium Carlton 2 wins Melbourne 1 win Since 2000 Carlton 5 wins Melbourne 8 wins The Coaches Ratten 1 win Bailey 0 wins MEDIA Channel 10 at 3.00pm (delayed) RADIO ABC774 Triple M 3AW THE BETTING (Don't even think about it!) Carlton to win $1.08 Melbourne to win $7.00 LAST TIME THEY MET Carlton 15.11.101 defeated Melbourne 9.14.68 Round 5, 2008, at The MCG The Demons were more than competitive at the start and took the lead at one stage in the second term before Judd and Fevola blew them away. Brad Green was in good form with four goals but Melbourne left its charge till far too late. This was skipper David Neitz's last game for the club. He went off with an injured neck and announced his retirement not long after this game. THE TEAMS CARLTON Backs Aaron Joseph Bret Thornton Jordan Russell Half backs Dennis Armfield Paul Bower Ryan Houlihan Centreline Heath Scotland Marc Murphy Bryce Gibbs Half forwards Kade Simpson Andrew Walker Chris Judd Forwards Eddie Betts Brendan Fevola Setanta O'hAilpin Followers Matthew Kreuzer Nick Stevens Richard Hadley Interchange Andrew Carrazzo Cameron Cloke Jeff Garlett Simon Wiggins Emergencies Joe Anderson Sam Jacobs Chris Yarran In Jeff Garlett Out Mitch Robinson (foot) MELBOURNE Backs Matthew Whelan James Frawley Cale Morton Half backs Kyle Cheney Jared Rivers Tom McNamara Centreline Colin Sylvia Brent Moloney Aaron Davey Half forwards Nathan Jones Russell Robertson Liam Jurrah Forwards Paul Johnson Stefan Martin Brock McLean Followers Jake Spencer Neville Jetta Matthew Bate Interchange James McDonald Jordie McKenzie Ricky Petterd Shane Valenti Emergencies Clint Bartram Jamie Bennell Mark Jamar In Jordie McKenzie Jake Spencer Matthew Whelan Out Clint Bartram Lynden Dunn Brad Miller 2009: A SPACE ODDITY Saturday's fixture against the Blues is an odd one in that, even in these days of flaky AFL engineered programmes, the length of time elapsed since the two teams last met has been unusually long. Their last encounter was in early 2008 when David Neitz was going around for the Demons. In fact, that round five fixture was his last game and his club has undergone a massive rebuilding programme ever since: one that is bound to continue into 2010. Before that, the teams met in the surreal final round of 2007 when the Blues triumphantly completed the first (and probably last) "grand slam of tanking" to claim a priority draft selection by losing every game of the last half of an AFL season. The prize of course, was Matthew Kreuzer, Chris Judd, an entree into this year's finals and who knows what further glory lies in store for the Blues in the near future? For the victors in that fateful final game from two years ago, there were few spoils. The Demons bottomed out badly in the post Daniher era, the rebuilding process has been painfully slow and the light at the end of the tunnel seems distant and dim although they are accumulating some handy young footballers for the day when they eventually break out into the sunlight. To that end, many would say that Melbourne has followed Carlton's 2007 blueprint (pun intended) and, if that's true, then one doesn't have to be a rocket scientist to predict the outcome of this game. The Blues are two years further advanced in talent, experience and maturity and have all the incentive in the world not to lose. And you can bet the sheep station on the fact that they won't allow Melbourne's best playmaker the luxury of roaming the paddock unchecked all game this time. Carlton by a handy margin.

When Melbourne last played against Carlton, David Neitz was still a player. The Demons also dropped Chris Johnson for the game which surely must have been the clincher for the Blues' recruiters. MELBOURNE Backs Matthew Whelan Nathan Carroll Daniel Bell Half backs Paul Wheatley Jared Rivers Cameron Bruce Centreline Brad Green Brock McLean Clint Bartram Half forwards Cale Morton Russell Robertson Colin Sylvia Forwards Aaron Davey David Neitz Austin Wonaeamirri Followers Jeff White James McDonald Nathan Jones Interchange Lynden Dunn James Frawley Mark Jamar Brent Moloney Emergencies Colin Garland Chris Johnson Matthew Warnock In James Frawley Brent Moloney Out Chris Johnson (omitted) Brad Miller (suspended) CARLTON Backs Michael Jamison Bret Thornton Jordan Russell Half backs Heath Scotland Jarrad Waite Paul Bower Centreline Andrew Carrazzo Marc Murphy Bryce Gibbs Half forwards Kade Simpson Brad Fisher Nick Stevens Forwards Eddie Betts Brendan Fevola Cameron Cloke Followers Matthew Kreuzer Richard Hadley Chris Judd Interchange Jordan Bannister Shaun Grigg Setanta O'hAilpin Darren Pfeiffer Emergencies Dennis Armfield Adam Bentick Adam Hartlett No change

Well, itooks like it's over ... Aaron Davey polled 35.719 (record for a game under the weighted system) and now has an enormous lead over Brent Moloney:- 144.055 Aaron Davey 90.172 Brent Moloney 71.561 Brock McLean 68.665 Cale Morton 61.028 Nathan Jones 60.559 Cameron Bruce 53.732 Jack Grimes 47.014 Colin Sylvia 46.415 Ricky Petterd 39.609 James Frawley 37.985 Brad Green 36.065 Jared Rivers 34.144 Matthew Bate 33.646 Matthew Warnock 31.414 Mark Jamar 24.467 James McDonald 20.529 Liam Jurrah 19.408 Brad Miller 17.363 Shane Valenti 14.404 Paul Johnson 11.207 Stefan Martin 10.053 Kyle Cheney 9.952 Addam Maric 8.827 Jamie Bennell 8.015 Clint Bartram 6.535 Neville Jetta 6.126 Russell Robertson 2.742 Lynden Dunn 1.488 Tom McNamara 0.613 John Meesen