SFebes

Yes I know all that Jaded. The fact of the matter is, it means bugger all, just like when we won in 21' which we hadn't done since 64' Champion Data, banners (joking), betting odds, media hype all mean diddly squat. It all comes down to form and injuries mostly. FWIW, I think it will be a Melbourne v Brisbane GF - even though, heaven forbid I don't think we are humming along as well as some think, yet. This match will be a good test. I do hope TMAC gives us a solid few weeks and takes the pressure off JVR. However, I'm not expecting miracles from TMAC or Fritsch and they'll be rusty as you'd think. Anyway, I'm off overseas for a week so I'll miss this game. Go Dee's.

There's only been 3 flags this decade so far so hardly a big call. 2020, 2021 and last year. Bulldogs was obviously last decade, 2016 and they should beat the Cats and make it. Interestingly Sydney have made 4 GF's in the last 10-11yrs. Certainly anyones flag.

First time in a while Grundy hasn’t at least been named on the extended bench….?

Looking at all the selected teams, apart from us and the Blues, seems everyone else is taking the [censored] with selections.

If we rest anyone this week they would've had the best part of 3wks off, not 2 and thats where it is treading a line.

Funny you mention that as I was going to bring it up the other day, but when the camera showed Petracca on the bench on gameday I thought to myself his eyes look shot and wondered whether he was sick at the time, especially given he was a bit off.

Pretty sure it was the other way around mate. Anyway, doesn't matter now really, we have a flag to win with this list :-)

Did others see the article on afl.com.au about the veterans list being reintroduced, could be handy for us going forward....

Add in the McKay compo as well haha

I agree with you don't worry, however all of this was Max's idea from the start don't forget.

Well, IIRC, the AFL can appeal this decision can't they? So lets see how serious they are...... TBH, I've lost complete faith in all things from AFL house in recent years and am very sceptical of the whole joint. Thank goodness the Dees bring me joy.

With our draft hand and some players on decent money exiting you'd think, we could really set this list up for 10yrs here. This draft is a big one for the Melbourne Footy Club, exciting times.

So why didn't he trade and draft accordingly and have a big clean out and go again? He was offered this job long ago, hence him quitting Richmond.

Unfortunately Grundy has done NO wrong, it's Max not being able to let go of that number one ruck spot. The intention was Max would spend time predominately forward and Grundy to ruck. So Max and the club have got Max's ambitions and capabilities all wrong. Blind Freddy could see it wasn't going to work.

I'm a very big fan of this kid, probably more than Petracca at the same age tbh. Has poise, class, skill, dare, courage and high footy IQ - he reads the play and future plays so well. Would not surprise me if hes a future Melbourne captain.

Knew he had the job months ago IMO. Very odd how he wanted a break yet signed back on before the current H&A season has even ended.....

Jeez Hogan had a field day by the looks! 9 goals and 17 odd marks.

For those that have seen Laurie, could he potentially be the replacement for the Hunter wing next year and beyond?

Sorry Redleg, I haven't had a chance to read the thread or convo just yet mate, just saw Haynes' name mentioned so said no, at his age.

For half the price or thereabouts. Grundy isn't what he used to be since his injuries.

No to Haynes.

Interesting and puzzling selection of Laurie at this time of year. I'd prefer a seasoned, experienced and hardened Hibberd, at least you know you can trust him. I really don't think still playing with our forward setup with two rounds to go is great at all, it could well be the undoing of us in the end. Hawks are playing good footy. I feel getting Grundy when we needed a KPF last year is a real oversight by the club. We are just lucky JVR has come on and adapted quicker as it could have been horrible. I'm not as confident on Jefferson as some, yet... So I'm thinking now 2nd is unlikely, it's got to be wherever we finish to play Collingwood first week. Hard to guage Brisbane at the moment, I'm finding them a bit confusing to work out. When they're up and about they're very good. Two home finals will pretty much guarantee them a GF berth. Saw some pics of TMAC at training and actually looks fit and trim, but he'll be so out of touch. I'm starting to think we have just got to play Brown or TMAC and put up with what they don't offer tbh. It just straightens us up a bit. Joel Smith isn't the answer as a KPF. Time will tell.

Hated, but not wanted.

Tom Lynch (Rich) and/or James Sicily

You're welcome.