Deeoldfart

I did the predictor again after the weekend results, and the likely fallout (injuries and suspension). Trying to be as objective as possible for a diehard Demon, I had us beating the Swans and the Eagles (which looks easier now) and losing to GWS. Final result had us ending 5th, and playing the Hawks in the first Elimination Final. However, other permutations have us finishing as high as 4th and as low as 9th. Bottom line ......... buckle up for the ride, this is going down to the wire. Stock up with your prescribed BP / heart medication and preferred beverages.

6. Oliver 5. Salem 4. Brayshaw 3. Harmes 2. Hogan 1. Frost

A strong win against weak opposition today. Sing the song: enjoy the win: recover well; review the game; and move on quickly to prepare for next Sunday arvo at the 'G". The demands increase every week from now on boys. Go Demons.

Goody looks nonplussed in the box late in that quarter. My armchair emotions are a bit more outlandish.

Live ladder is 131.1%. Keep it going, and don't let up Demons!

No late changes for either team.

I'm not sure that my sanity (or heart) can cope with another tight finish (even if we win), but I know that no part of me will cope with a loss. Just get it done Demons.

GCS look frail and undermanned, and have probably 'checked out' for 2018. Starting today, we should take the first step towards serious September action. Just focus on the job at hand, and get it done. Start building momentum now.

Is that a slightly odd selection (unless he is expected to play tomorrow)? I would have thought the priority would have been to give him another game at Casey, to try to run him into form.

I agree Whispering, last night showed that we are not too far off the pace. It also showed that Richmond are beatable, even at the 'G'. Some important learnings for opposition coaches, I think. I trust we will do our homework.

One change - In Vanders out Melky.

I love this statement from the accompanying article: Walker said the opportunity to play at the top level – along with playing and seeing the development of (Joel) Smith – clinched the deal to play at Melbourne. “It’s been amazing for me to watch Melbourne … just seeing the culture and the development coaches, it’s a pretty amazing thing,” he said. The professionalism at our Club has come a very long way in a short time.

The cynic in me says Rattan out, Mitchell in. Time will tell.

Thanks demonstone. I thought 186 was the all time record, but 191 ....... sheesh! Make it 191 on Sunday please! ?

It's great that Harley opted to retire if football had become a 'grind' and his investment in the Club was less than the 100% required. Win / Win. Thanks Harley and good luck with whatever lies ahead.

How's his form been at Casey daisy?

Goodwin on whether Oliver or Gawn is having a better season: "If you ask Max, he would say he is contributing to Clayton's season. If you ask Clayton, he'd say he's making Max look good." ? In all seriousness, we are so blessed to have them both as Demons. They clearly have huge inate talent, and have worked their butts off to get to this level, and the Club itself deserves a great deal of credit for developing them to become stars of the competition. Fingers crossed, they will be part of a premiership team sooner rather than later.

Great work as usual guys! I wonder if Supermacado's neighbour has discovered the old speaker in his back yard yet (lol).

187 points please. GCS deserve their name in the record books. ?

I like the confidence on here about the prospect of a large percentage booster, but I hope the players don't take that attitude into the game. Just stick fat to our game plan and structures, and the margin will take care of itself.

From MFC website / AFL Media. No mention of Vanders "Get them in: After a VFL bye and with no fresh injuries from a strong win on the road against Adelaide, Melbourne will be reluctant to make too many changes to the side. However, Cameron Pedersen, Dean Kent and Mitch Hannan may come into consideration. Under the pump: First-year forward Charlie Spargo may need a rest soon after a long stretch of games, while Jay Kennedy Harris and Joel Smith are others who wouldn't be feeling safe. Medical room: Changes could be on the horizon in the next fortnight, with the Demons hopeful Jack Viney (foot) and Michael Hibberd (quad) will be ready to resume in round 21 or round 22. Jayden Hunt (ankle) will return via the VFL this week. Verdict: The Demons may consider Kent or Hannan, if he has overcome a jarred knee, for Spargo, but otherwise no change."

Nice stats Febes. You are spot on about him being a quiet achiever. Without looking at his numbers, I certainly wouldn't have been aware that he was going quite so well. Rapt with his contribution, and the fact that he is (at last) getting a decent run at it (touch wood).

So you come to Demonland for "decently balanced perspectives and commentary"? ?

That's fair, following a road trip to Perth.

Gee jnr, you have become a grumblebum lately.