Robbie87

For all the talk of being an elite kick, his ability to regularly turn something into nothing (especially with any heat on, perceived or otherwise) was very evident. A depth player at best - would rather have seen a younger project player in that spot. Not a contest player and as an outside runner, not enough speed. Been largely disappointing and probably would have had a lot less games if Hunter or even Spargo were available. Admittedly he was a bit better in the last few games but agree with Biggestred on his likely status in 2025.

...but "cultural issues", "crisis" and "mess" at the Demons? Damian Barrett = first class hack...add this one to the list.

I would consider Membrey or Kruger for the reasons above (all things considered like age, injury history) - better than backup - could make an impact at crucial times if not season regulars. Kruger is a beast.

For all those D'land Dribblers who have been calling for Tim Lamb's head. The Demons have aced the AFL futures market, but Collingwood have floundered.This is how they did it Melbourne’s bold move to trade up to Essendon’s pick nine surprised clubs for its audacity as the AFL’s trade period entered its second week, but it’s straight from the Demons’ successful future trading playbook, which has made them the best traders in the first 10 years of the AFL’s future trading system.

Couldn't agree more re the leadership situation (same goes for Tmac), but also, while I know Milkshake has his detractors (on this forum at least) I am rapt he stays on for his footy smarts, skills and forward line marshalling. We are always better with him in the side, and miss him greatly when he isn't. And good on him for being rewarded for staying the course - he could have easily run up the white flag with that knee. A class act...

Listen to the Lever interview this morning on Tim and Garry's SEN program - some might breath a bit easier on the Trac situation...

Agree with many here - we seem to cop it in an extraordinary way. It seems to me that, by and large, the Club is very tight on matters of player management and welfare - not convinced the leaks come from the inner sanctum, more likely family members, friends? It seems particular members of the media don't like that they are not 'in the know' and they try to take us down every chance they get - or at best add 2 and 2 to get 10 - think Barrett on his relentless crusade that everything that happens points to 'cultural issues' at Melbourne (despite a growing flotilla of re-signings) - lazy journalism at best. I think the Club has done a mighty job under enormous media pressure to stay tight - they have given Trac space even though it is hurting us publicity-wise (and maybe recruitment-wise eg Houston?) - and I was pleased in a way to hear Perty in his recent SEN interview admit to the distraction - how could there not be? When the dust settles on all this (and Trac plays on), at the risk of stirring the pot and inviting more malice, I hope we can look forward to a few very public, good natured, but pointed, 'digs' at some of the players. Tom Morris, "Simon, you must have been thrilled with Petracca's performance today". Goody, "Yeah, not bad for a bloke who didn't want to be here, hey Tom?"

Clearly someone (or more) is feeding our 'friends' in the press. Is there a rat in the ranks, or someone associated with the players - either way, what is their motive for running what appears to be a disruptive agenda?

Spot on. Those who claim he is past it obviously haven't watched him this season. Been the Iceman down back, contested marks, spoils, beating smaller opponents at ground level, and - can't believe I am saying it - super reliable by foot. A dirty night against the Dogs doesn't negate the rest of the year. Recruit of the season (to the backline).

Not the forwards Not the defenders Not the coach Midfield getting belted End of story

This has been the real drop-off this season - it has been there to see most of the year - not 'culture' or fitness as some less informed, supposed footy 'experts' have banged on about. Been saying all year that Brayshaw has been a big loss, and if that was a known situation when Jordan was looking elsewhere, there would have been a bigger case for him to stay. Clarrie has clearly been well below his best. Now Trac gone for season, and it is time to try the likes of Rivers, McVee, Nibbler more seriously through the middle. The rest of our on field misfortunes stems largely from here...

Real shame - exciting and promising player who was just finding her feet in AFLW. Fast recovery.

6. ANB 5. Kozzie 4. Rivers 3. Fritta 2. Petracca 1. McVee

6. Trac 5. Nibbler 4. Gawn 3. Langdon 2. Rivers 1. May

6. Gawn 5. Lever 4. Langdon 3. May 2. Turner 1. Rivers