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.

Thanks for your comments. I understand your thought process regarding the Fritsch and Watts comparison, but I really don't see the point. The former is the future and the latter the past. I guess given the thousands of words about Jack over the years, I am just heartily sick of on-going reference to him. I was a Jack supporter but now recognize he is best gone. I would prefer to see any discussion about Fritsch's game and his bright future simply stand alone. He is not Jack and he does not play like Jack. And I think we all recognize that we have gained more than we lost.

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.

Yeah yeah

True ManDee, I guess I just get annoyed at seeing the thread pop-up all the time, and the general level of bile directed at a guy that does not deserve the hate. (in fact no-one does other than child molesters and politicians)

I'm not a fan of censorship, but really this thread should be closed down. It does no one any credit to be banging on about Jack. Just demeaning diatribe about an ex-player. It should stop. We should talk about our current crop of players like Spargo and Fritsch. Anyone but Watts.

Let's hope so. Amazing what confidence and belief in yourself and teammates can do. And accountability. Not only for your role but also your opponent.

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.

Fair enough, you are better informed than I am. I thought that he had spent a considerable amount of time in rehab. Having said that, my main concern with Lewis this year will be his lack of pace and slowing reflexes. .

probably not loges, far too logical.

You would really doubt the sense of playing any player against the Cats who has niggles or who has not had recent match time, such as Lewis. We need players who can run all day and play 4 Q of high intensity footy, otherwise the Cats will run us off our feet.

Agree. Also, there was so much negativity around MFC and JW, and every season it became an issue. Almost like a curse. talked about by media, fans and no doubt players. When coaches and the club would prefer to focus on the positives and the team. It was an emphasis on the individual rather than the team. It was like this before Dusty turned the corner, although it was his off-field stuff rather than his on-field performance. The Tigers were successful last year in eliminating all the bad news story and concentrating on the team and on-field success. I am sure that Roos and then Goodwin became sick of the questions and the distraction. There was every chance that the distraction would have continued in 2018. Now that the dust has settled, I have no doubt that the JW decision was right.

Two posts use the same word, "courage" that's reassuring.

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.

Hope BF has the intensity and competitiveness around the ball. Not only to get the bloody thing but also to tackle like a demon. Not run sideways watching the play. if you know what I mean.

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.

We have to get used to some of our leading lights being sidelined. Will be a test of our depth, versatility, and finals hopes. If we can't cover absences in the early part of the season, forget about finals.

Agree, this will never be resolved between the keep him brigade and the send him to purgatory mob. Although, I reckon there are a few more fence sitters today. The judgement will rest and fall on the success or failure of the MFC or PA, and Watt's own performance. I was one of the keep him brigade, however, with his departure it feels like a veil has been lifted from the club. I will be one surprised lad if he has a stellar year after 9 years with the Demons and PA make the Granny. If his form is not up to scratch, the PA fans will make mincemeat out of him. A very unforgiving mob.

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."