Deemania since 56

Just a playful tap to the diaphragm - such as this observed spectacle - can be extremely debilitating, easily bruised and very, very painful - hence, professional boxers utilise this 'hitting zone' more frequently than most other bodily sites. It renders breathing difficulties instantly when not braced across the abdomen; for example, Clarrie was approached from behind as he was evaluating the play ahead, so he knew nothing of the cheap shot he was about to receive. It was almost a professional assault as if it was pre-determined (coached) to occur, totally regardless of forcefulness. Unacceptable, totally handicapping for a short period of time, and the mark of a coward within the game of footy.

Our forwards 'almost refused' to penetrate the spaces they should have - overall laziness and poor coordination. There is no profitable gain in statically waiting for the 'perfect' incoming bomb.

Yes, the turnovers were cruelling when these did not have to be ... the Dees allowed themselves to be hurried searching for spacemakers that never penetrated. Disco put in a good game - very handy with his ground coverage when it mattered. Well fought, Dees ... but it could have been a very prominent 'walkover' with a bit more thought and effort. Not too sure that Petty is 100% - he should be contributing more in terms of effective possessions and disposals.

Taj has also added some 'in-close' skills with both hand and foot, and does move to receive these days around more central play. Developing nicely, a very strong prospect in the not-too-distant-future ...

In an extremely tight circle of mates, up-wind.

Now Disco needs the opportunities, albeit with some interim patience; he could well prove to be a very clean player in the senior team given glimpses of form and ability. I wish the lad well; it is hoped his confidence and endeavour take a leap into regular selection, starting this year.

Correct, tick, no wuz.

I think many of us 'just cannot watch' / 'find no interest, whatsoever' in observing football games in which the Mighty Demons are not playing. To keep abreast of how (well) up-coming opposition sides are playing, we refer to the [censored] media for an ounce of insight, no more. One-eyed it may be, it is a commitment just the same.

Fairy Nuff.

Not exactly, but it was a busy week outside, yet amid, a short schedule of three critical games - match preparations included - and as we all know, candles burning at both ends expire relatively quickly.

Sensible decision - he can be relied upon to get himself 'match fit', working through injuries and related negativities to his form. On several occasions, I have seen him training (and he has done so at far greater effort, concentration and work rate than any other team member), so we should have confidence in his training philosophy and method(s). It is also time for Trac to slow down his external commitments and appearances; from his recent Adelaide adventures, he must have been 'almost' exhausted, as suspected during the Brizzy game, giving public addresses and forums, cooking demonstrations, travel to and from locations, preparations for the public domain whilst still meeting Club/Team commitments and preparations.

It is a good idea, D_J; suits the Dogs defensively, heals the MFC forward line (and most probably encourages the kickless to be far more mobile with an attacking forward like JUH onboard). If only it could happen!

Great news! Now is the time to get him coached correctly - further develop his potentials, provide him with enormous confidence and guile, to build a forward line around him in both potency and support.

yes. yes. yes.

Precisely! Prongs in all directions other than in the goal hot zone. Two players do it well, just two: Chandler and ANB. The rest pretend to clear and protect, crowd and populate chaos. Midfielders do not run on, either, missing certain prongs and overlooking such initiatives across the forward line. Our goal shooting is horse droppings as our foot passing is always sacrificed for the hope-and-a-prayer of our 'lovely' long kicks to weakness.