H_T

At Hawthorn, he copped criticism for an increase in soft tissue injuries. This year the soft tissue injury list is better i think IMO.

We didn't just make up numbers, we had a finals win in 2006 and were competitive - but that's another story. It's hard to win interstate too. Success = Premierships to most people. But if you want to measure success as 'a competitive' side MFC stand-up higher than alot of Vic Clubs through the last 10 years. Kids remember. Tigers, Saints, Bulldogs, Kangaroos, Blues and even Hawks haven't had much say in things the last 10 years. Just ask their respective fans. What do you mean by a couple of gimmicks? Those narrow wins? Think Positive. I have two girls, and one on the way (hopefully a Champion CHF for the Dees one day), they love the Melbourne theme song, they love the red and blue. You gotta stick fat and not be so negative. When it turns, you may as well make the most of it!

Tell that to Bruce......

This combination is good, but I query Petterd still. Haven't seen enough of him. He played Round 1 and wasn't up to it..............but then again, the whole side wasn't up to it on that day. He needs a full pre-season.

Its only the last two years we have been beaten regularly. We had more wins or supposed success from 1998-2006 than most other vic clubs and more finals appearances too. We have our fair legion of youth supporters contrary to some opposition supporters opinions of late due to our early season form.

People's, I forgot to include Paul Wheatley as part of the poll.....................apologies (I knew I would overlook someone! Damn It), just place him in the "OTHER" category....

12noon update poll has the back six at: - BACKS:- Whelan Warnock Garland H-BACKS: - Rivers Martin CJ Keep 'em coming, there might be a change in the next hour?

IMO Buckley reminds me alot in the pace of one or both of the Burgoynes running off half back and breaking lines with penetrating kicks.................I'm not sure CJ offers that? Opinions?

Well said about Stef. His presence will be huge. he's as big as Will Minson, and he's a gorilla!

Fair to say at this stage, that Carroll is G O R R R R N. (Gone)

Yes he is a utility, plays all over the place. He's your horses for courses type for the likes of Brad Johnson.

I agree Grimesy, Rivers can play the 3rd tall and help out occassionally by filling the hole. That's what he did when he won the NAB.

Your the only one who has Bruce in your six.....but that's good because that's your opinion....

That's interesting... as it stands now, with the ladder, I'd prefer to be in Melbourne's position than the Tigers. They can join the queue however and try their luck. Who are some of the WA boys in the Tigers line up? Pettifer?

Some very interesting numbers posted already.......Martin has obviously impressed. I think that's a good sign, and I reckon Bailey might have the same opinion......

I was impressed again with Buckley. I think he will turn out to be a good player for our beloved Dees. I was very impressed with Stefan Martin's 2nd AFL game. He will be a key post for us - me thinks IMO.

Maric & Grimes

As I said, coaches go on match ups (ie "horses for courses), and it is hard to settle on a back 6 through rotations, etc. I just want your best 6.

Bell ahead of Whelan? Ok. It will be interesting to see the poll as it progresses. Whelan to me has more awareness and footy nous than Bell and also more alert with the ball. However, in your corner there is an age gap and there is time on Bell's side, he is a terrific tackler and strong. But then again so is Matty Whelan. I based my 6 for next year, and I think IMO Whelan still has alot to offer.

There's always a positive.........

IMO, When the development seminars have been happening, or the teaching of team rules and game plan stuff, Col's mind must of been elsewhere......(is that harsh? If that's harsh.....apologies....)

I know this will create alot of banter, but I base my back 6 on further development. We all know that most times, coaches will play "horses for courses". But if I were to choose a back 6 for 2009, they would be: - BACKS: Whelan Warnock Garland H-BACKS: Rivers Martin Buckley Cheers, hope you have much frustration and angst in choosing your six from the nominated candidates, if you choose other, please specify who, and if you want your reasoning.. Good Luck

You should be a comedian.... NOT!

Yes, I heard that too. It doesn't mean that it's an absolute monty to happen though. There is alot of water to pass before he is signed. But he does want to return to the sporting Capital, and he prefer to play with his brother...if possible. For the Record, I think we would give up less by getting Warnock than a Prismall. But Prismall I think will stay at Geelong. He is a back-up at present for their midfield. With Ablett and Ling out this week, Prismall will play.

Ruckman are hard to come by in the draft or even the PSD. What Sydney have is Jolly who is AFL standard. They have a couple of young developers, but if they are looking to next year, White would have to be considered. White is not completely finished. (ALthough I agree he is in decline). re: Peter Street. (Sorry Peter!) So White is out of contract. That won't stop Sydney offering say a 1 year contract...He's form has been below par, but Bails has taken the opportunity to have a look at the rest of our Ruck stocks (bar Meesen). That has just magnified White's situation IMO. I agree if MFC can get a trade up for White...they should move on it asap