martin

Maybe I'm the world's worst judge but I think Weideman has been absolutely outstanding in this game. He has taken on two experienced campaigners in Ladhams and Sinclair and destroyed them. At ground level they haven't got near him. Must have a big tank as he has rucked throughout the day. This is his role. Back up ruck pinch hitting forward and back as required. Impressive.

Why the need to go down 'media street' with all of this is baffling. Destabilising and distracting. Serves no useful purpose. .Angus should politely decline all interviews or, at the very least, give bland responses. Clearly he has an ego . This is less than ideal 4 weeks out from a final series.

I've posted occasionally and been avid follower of Demonland for a number of years. A number of posters have good insight and, from time to time, provide excellent intel.. However, it has to be said that the poster 'Goodwindees' has been 'Poster Supreme' when it comes to news scoops and reliable inside information. In fact incredible!!!! Let's take a look at some amazing stories that he has allowed us to be privy to in the last couple of years. Keeping in mind that he often publishes first on Demonland prior to any media reports: *Posted that the Demons were first to speak to Dan Hanneberry long before it was public knowledge. *Let us know re AVB's depressed fracture of the cheekbone prior to the club having knowledge. * Petracca and Oliver's contract extensions. *The Demons presentation to Cerra and genuine interest. *Tarrant to Richmond. *And, of course, the most recent being Luke Dunstan to the Dee's before anyone could even had imagined it transpiring. Huge!! No doubt I've missed some gems, however, the aforementioned list is indeed commendable and I for one look forward to more 'Goodwindees' offerings in the future. Keep up the great work. 'Goodwindee's' gets my vote for number one Demonland poster!!!!

Hassa Mann was my absolute favourite player as a young boy. A true champion and a star of the game . Had his number 29 proudly emblazoned on my duffle coat. Totally devastated when he went back west. Reluctantly, but ultimately happily, I asked my mum to turn the nine upside down to become a six following another hero in the high flying Greg Parke. Great memories.

Jackson hasn't given a yelp for a long time. ATM Weideman can easily play his role nad kick goals. Weideman would also be an option if Brown off his game. Jackson can't.

In: Harmes, Weideman, Melksham Out: Viney (won't happen what a statement), Jackson , Jordon (needs a rest).

I swung by for a brief time late Monday morning. Only a handful still there.Gawn, Brayshaw, Hannan, C Wagner and Chandler completing some fairly serious repetive 100m run thoughs. Bennell was basically alone but fortifying to see him really striding out along the wing with numerous repeat efforts followed by multiple raking 50+ metre drop punts to one of the fitness staff. All class.One can live in hope!

I was only at training for 45 minutes or so but Brayshaw was most definitely in the main group and fully involved. Suspect Smith was also.Barring unforeseen mishaps Gawn, Tmac & May almost certain starters for the Hawthorn game going by the banter in the rehab group. AVB no show. Petty is a worry.

Is there any possibility whatsoever that club can give us an update on KK? I understand that unfortunately it's pretty much a lost cause but reports on Smith and May recently were prompt and detailed. I think it has nearly been 6 weeks since he's been on the track. Would be good to know.

Calf strain just before our training commenced in November.

Here's my two bob's worth FWIW: *On my way to training rode past Tomlinson, Bennell and Baker jogging the tan. All moving freely and looked in good spirits. *Took note of the rehab group mainly. VDB & Petty started there but soon joined tha main group. Fingers crossed for VDB. He is ripped! *Hannan looks a fair way off. *Really hoping KK comes on. Not sure he is in rehab for concussion but , to me, looks detached from the group. May well just be his demeanour but all those around him totally foccused. Hope I'm off the mark. *Having said all that, Jones cuts a frustrated figure. Not exactly sure of the problem? *Rivers is a specimen. Tall mid, oozes confidence as has a body ready to go. *Never seen Jetta fitter. *Tomlinson would have to be the tallest and bulkiest og wingmen! *Absolutely trying to be realistic but this is a massive group in main training. Only one not on the park at all was Spargo, I think.

Thanks. Wouldn't be surprised at all if there is an announcement soon. Hope I'm wrong.

Any sign of KK?

I was standing no more than 5 metres from Clarry after he came off and he was clearly in discomfort favouring his left arm. Having said that, he was in good spirits and heard him say to KK that it was only a 'stinger'. One can only hope. Would say that the training thus far has been as tough, long and brutal as anything I've seen.

Can't recall seeing joel Smith either but good be mistaken.

Yes, looks fit and in the time trial.

Stayed up untill the time trial. Weideman, Petty, Bradtke and Josh Wagner only ones in rehab group. AVB and KK in full participation. Tomlinson was there only as a spectator. Presume it;s due to the fact he played in the GF, longer break etc. Unfortunately Charlie Spargo on crutches and in a moon boot. Not sure that Jetta and Viney participated in the time trial. Could not sight either Baker or Hannan. Easily the biggest group I've seen for some time in the main group. Encouraging.

Apparently reported in the NT News.

Apologies if this is old news but Sky just reporting that we have signed up for another four years to play games in Darwin & Alice Springs. Suns have the same deal.. Hard to believe. No doubt we will play 'crowd favourites' Adelaide in Darwin with no bye to follow. FMD

Very well summarised. How others can't see this beggars belief.

Best article I've read. Absolutely no guarantees but the hyperbole that has been spoken and written is generally is laughable.

The changes are excellent and needed .The club also needs to reassess to some degree and taking nothing for granted. Having said that, no amount of change will insulate any team from failure given the horrendous pre season and subsequent multiple number and long term injuries that have occurred throughout. To think a any coaching staff etc will make a difference should this repeat is delusional. For better or for worse followed this club for over 50 years and I can't recall a,season this injury ravaged.It would be foolhardy to think this was the only reason for failure, however, far and away the the main factor. For some to 'blame' injuries at all for some folk is unpalatable, weak and unacceptable. That mentality leaves me gobsmacked. One of Ron Barassi's favouite line was "We are offering reasons not excuses".

Interestingly, have been thinking about this and can draw one main conclusion. The main protagonists - Oliver, Harmes, Brayshaw, Viney and, to a lesser extent, Jones all had interrupted pre seasons in varying degrees. They also represent the few in the squad that have pretty much been untouched by injury 'in season'. I am of the belief that they have shouldered a very heavy load whilst being under prepared. They all look weary and the end of the season can't come quickly enough. Viney, in particular, looks shot. Harmes not far behind. Don't think Brayshaw's been right at any time. Oliver still very good but struggling a little atm. Gven a longer break, a full pre season, some luck, midfield additions through the draft and trade and things can turn around

Great post. How people can't see this as the primary reason for this seasons woes beggars belief.

You can't abuse your own. Just sit in a Melbourne member's area and find out why. So let me get this right. The AFL states that u cant 'abuse' your own or oppositon players, umpires or other supporters. What's left? "Come on Dee's"? FFS.