Chook

The only thing I can think of is that they've seen all they need to from him. Maybe we'll see him next week, maybe we won't, but I can guarantee he'll be one of the first picked for our Round 1 game.

For some reason, I really like the way Joel Macdonald plays, but for God's sake he made me look bad in that first half. But I reckon if Jack Watts decides one day to get off his period, Mitch Clark learns how to work with our forward line and our coach gives Jeremy Howe more than two seconds on the field, we'll have a pretty devastating forward-line . . . that's if they can be bothered leading and our mids don't just bomb it on top of their heads anyway.

Good thing we weren't scheduled to play way out in the sticks like most years. I'm actually amazed by that, to be honest.

I would, but there's not enough nines in the code.

Whoever it is, it's paying a little too much attention to Bambi's butt for my liking.

I can't think of a more perfect example of the lure of potential than draft picks. Totally untried, raw materials to mould whatever kind of player you want.

I agree. I see more in Jetta than I do in Bennell, and I really hope he can get over his shoulder injury.

Give it up. I think he's taking it to the grave with him.

Students like sensible boundaries. "Never talk" is not one of them. It puts the student and the teacher in and adversarial relationship and totally ignores the goal (which is to learn). Discipline for the sake of discipline usually just wastes everyone's time and energy. You can discipline someone, but if that gets in the way of their development, then what is the point? What are you trying to achieve?

Have you ever been in a class where half the lesson is wasted by the teacher trying desperately to maintain the kind of silence only heard on the tennis court or in outer space? I sometimes think that an over-emphasis on "discipline" can actually obstruct the overall progress of a student - not that this is happening at Melbourne, though.

Liam Jurrah is just about the best crumber you will find. I'm pretty confident that as long as we keep a forward-line with one of Mitch Clark, James Sellar, Mark Jamar or Stefan Martin in it, Liam will fill that role perfectly.

Nope. We'll still be on zero premiership points, just like everyone else. Honestly, a NAB Cup ladder? Please!

I stand by my comment about Jamie Bennell. You can keep me on notice if you want, but I saw last night what I saw last season from him. I said something negative, but I was specific in my criticism and gave what I see are the areas he needs to improve on. I was also disappointed by Jack Watts, but more because I just so desperately want him to magically come out, kick butt, and shut everyone up about him. Take me off your list, I beg you. I won't be able to sleep at night if you don't!

No. A conflicted, loudmouth meddler who sticks his nose in everyone's business, makes idle threats and puts undue pressure on his first-year coaches.

Sounds like something Eddy McGuire would say. And no, we don't need an Eddy McGuire.

Jack Watts was pretty disappointing, and I really don't want to see Jamie Bennell in the side until he learns how to either get more possessions or become significantly more accountable.

Hilariously, he's probably doing exactly what he's told. The conditions and rules for this game totally destroy any tactical advantage that sort of playing style might provide. I really wouldn't draw anything much from these games if "long down the boundary line" is going to be a major part of our game plan.

YAY DEEEEEES!!!!!!!!!! Bloody Hell, the Suns have already got a better set-up than us.

Yeah, but they probably shouldn't be EXPECTING it. Although, given the first-year performance of Chris Scott, perhaps it's pretty realistic.

I tend to agree with Bobby here. There are methods of discipline that do not involve robbing both player and coach of much-needed development and information, as banning a player from playing does.

If that's true, then I have no problem with the punishment. I just want player development with a view to winning football matches to remain at the forefront, not "elite compliance" with a view to totalitarian rule by the coaching staff. Keep in mind the goal. Anything that is good for the goal is worth doing, certainly.

The only issue I have with the penalty is the rationale for suspending him. If Sam Blease failing to attend his meeting has damaged his development, and the selection of a young player in the NAB Cup is good for development (no doubt it is), then hasn't the suspension simply compounded the negative impact Sam's non-appearance has had on his development as a footballer? The coaching panel's aim is to create a professional environment, but surely their ultimate goal is to win a Premiership. Any sanction that interferes with that goal - and I believe denying a player the chance to develop match-fitness and experience does interfere - is an incorrect punishment. A large financial penalty or some thoroughly unenjoyable training would be better for Sammy's development (and the development of the team, keeping in mind it's ultimate aim) than denying him and the coaches the chance to see what he can do or where he would be best suited to play.

I agree, I think he's really good. Actually, I've thought that for a while. I think it was the year before last that I first really heard him speak, and I was quite blown away. I was not expecting him to be so eloquent and real in his responses. Doesn't give too much away, obviously, but still manages to avoid all the cliches that you generally hear in these sorts of interviews.

In my opinion, high player turn-over (ie from two high picks, rather than one known player) is the best way to address all your personel needs. I think we should use our picks in the actual draft, so that we can maximise our chances of picking and developing players to play the way we want them to.

Next week.