hemingway

If we look back over a long time, there is suspicion of teams and players taking "supplements". Going all the way back to the 70s there were players who became "huge" over summer. There were stories of gymnasiums supplying more than weight equipment. Perhaps not systemic but body shapes and muscle development told a story. I think in the 90s with the growth of the sports science industry there was a more organized or team approach. There are no clean skins in this business.

Oscar is another example of the time it takes for young players to find their feet and develop into good players. A few can make an immediate impact and excite fans but most take time. Many referred to Oscar as a spud. He is showing us that far from being a spud he is becoming a very important player. Who would have thought that Tom McDonald would develop into a very good forward. And the list goes on and on. The expectation and demand for immediate success is everywhere. We all get tired of waiting for success to come. However, patience is required before judgement is passed on a players career. Clearly the club got it right with Oscar and persevering with him.

I'm not sure about Jeffy. When he is "on" he is an asset. But these days you can't afford to have passengers. The Tigers don't have any. Our objective must be to have a team of players each week that are in form and consistent. The competition is so tight you can't afford to lose games. At the end of the season points and percentage are critical. Although we have had a few passengers this year, Jeffy goes missing too often for too long. It is continuation of the way he played at Carlton. You have to know that every player is going to turn up and have a crack. With Jeffy all you can do is hope he is going to turn up but if the likes of Spargo continue to perform, Jeffy's days in the ones are coming to an end.

Both these two young boys have shown more in a few games than most. The future.

Definitely a case of the value of family bloodlines. So many young footballers seem to have a Dad, Uncle or relative that played AFL/VFL. Or a mum that played netball etc. Like others I love the spirit of this young guy. Just oozes enthusiasm and attitude. And that first goal seemed to me to come down to sheer footy instinct. In the right place at the right time, knew where the goals were, and polished off with clean disposal.

It takes two to tango. A player may want to stay but what will be the club's attitude regarding contract negotiations. And what will be Brayshaw's attitude if the club puts a limit on its offer and does not match other offers? Angus has shown enough to prove he has what it takes, but has not had enough game time to determine his worth in terms of future contract negotiations. As others have pointed out, the big unknown is the impact his past concussion issues and the possibility of future concussion issues may have on his health and footy future.

Dieter, I am trying hard to be impressed but something is stopping me.

Like it. Cant go to far wrong with good strong colours and simple design. Just like our traditional jumper. Makes you wonder about the myriad of different alternate strips we have worn over recent years.

Sorry I meant titbit, meaning a little bit of gossip or scandal. or a small morsel of food.

That''s the most interesting [censored] bit I have read all day. Thanks La Dee.

Unfortunately, the lackluster fool is making a lot of money and will end up a very rich man. Whilst, the huge revenues continue to flow into AFL coffers, Gil is as safe as houses.

All class, a perfect fit for the Bombers! Notice how the media is again all over the Bombers with good news stories. Also the Tigers. You wonder "who pays the Piper."

got to say, have always loved the demon in all its incarnations. compared to the soccer club logo and the drink coaster logo, the demon says it all in footy terms. the marketing department might want to identify with the city of Melbourne, but in footy terms it leaves me cold. to quote Checker Hughes "I want you to fight like demons""

Not if your German Daisy. Or for that matter any other nationality. The only other observation is that Wedding is no longer the destination and if it is for some, the final destination is more likely Boring or Breakup. Not for all of us I might add. I am sure Bitter would also have whipping or thrashing in there somewhere probably after Petting but before........

Far too flattering. I understand that Uncle has gone to ground since the Craig McLaughlin allegations surfaced. Uncle does a very good impression of Frank N Furter, indeed, I am told he was approached to replace dear Craig until the production team checked out his CV and spoke to female cast members about his full audition.

"Be part of the journey" An overworked and overused phrase that is used by politicians, bureaucrats, and just about everyone else that has no conviction or passion. Perhaps they could have added ""as we go forward, be part of the journey" And perhaps qualify the slogan by stating that Rome was not built in a day. From a marketing perspective, a big fail. Bleed Red and Blue, Raise Hell or something that stirs something, anything.

The only Gods likely to care about Uncle are pagan gods. Given the the Uncles proclivities and indulgences, it's unlikely to be Bacchus. However, given the current weather conditions it could be Thor who is definitely not happy. With the crumbling ruin known as The Manor, no doubt the good Uncle is busy making sure he has enough buckets underneath all the leaks.

Indeed Daisy, we are a multi cultural place where bananas are not always regarded as the King of the Fruits. We must not forget all religions particularly those of SE Asia. As you know I have a deep interest in spiritual matters like many on this site particularly this thread. Over recent times, I have been drawn to Buddhism and the spiritual texts of The Vedas which predate all other religious texts by 500 years. The more commonly accepted religious texts are mere new and revised editions of The Vedas. So we must not forget the Durian. Worshiped by many as the King of Fruits. Perhaps we can encourage BB to try a Durian smoothy.

Forgotten his cultural roots. He could be lost. Bring him back into the fold God. Hineni my Lord.

Mango or banana smoothly BB?

The good life BB. An apt time to say "well it sure beats working" Just avoid the crocs and other deadly creatures such as the elderly (in particular avoid the bus tour group), low class tourists in floral shirts especially the Poms, and the locals. You know the ones who are morbidly obese with no necks, faces full of skin cancers who speak in a completely incomprehensible lingua franca.

Magnificent BB. I have partaken in a few cleansing ales myself at Hemingways. Anonymously of course. A very pleasant spot late in the day or early evening. I feel thirsty.

Like the highlights, definitely an X factor which is a bonus. With that number 2 on his back and his light frame, some of his plays remind me of a young Robert Flower.

Looking at the film, Oskar looks a player. As do the others. I think we have done well.

Given the disappointment of missing out on finals, I think it will take a while for many 2017 members to come on board again in 2018. Perhaps the Watts affair will also have some impact. So good wins in the early part of the season are going to be very important. Supporters will climb aboard again if we have early success.