jnrmac

We got 14k to a Sunday twilight game (4:40pm) in arctic conditions. NO-ONE says that the Cats on the same weekend at 2pm on a Saturday at their HOME GROUND against a Victorian team only drew 15,000!!!!!! It peeves me that the focus is on us when others have crap crowds and our circumstances with scheduling etc is much worse.

Geez How's the fwd line: Half forwards MacReadie Dunn Wonaeamirri Forwards Jetta Newton Miller That's a fwd line that could well have played for the Dees in the past two years.

Don't tempt the injury fairy please........ Everyone has Depth when their injury list is short.

Just wanting to be first with the thread??????

The Original Article: What would a hypothetical Victorian state-of-origin side look like after seven rounds of 2010? We've had a go at picking a team - see what you think. Criteria: We picked a team to beat a good, modern opponent, so we were looking for the best in-form, available Victorian native in each position. There is an embarrassment of riches in the midfield and forward line, so please don't think we didn't consider your favourite ball-winner. There's just not room for everyone in such elite company. This means we do not necessarily have the 22 best footballers from Victoria in our team - instead, we've picked the players we think are the best in each position at the moment. On this occasion, we opted to go without a tagger, backing our superstars to win enough ball themselves. We have gone with two ruckmen, despite the lack of riches in that department at the moment in this state. Here's our team - now tell us where we went wrong! VICTORIA B: James Frawley (Melbourne) Matthew Scarlett (Geelong) Dustin Fletcher (Essendon) HB: Corey Enright (Geelong) Troy Chaplin (Port Adelaide) Heath Shaw (Collingwood) C: Jimmy Bartel (Geelong) Joel Selwood (Geelong) Leigh Montagna (St Kilda) HF: Paul Chapman (Geelong) Jonathan Brown (Brisbane) Adam Goodes (Sydney) F: Eddie Betts (Carlton) Daniel Bradshaw (Sydney) Steve Johnson (Geelong) R: Mark Jamar (Melbourne) Gary Ablett (Geelong) Chris Judd (Carlton) I: Luke Hodge (Hawthorn) Brendon Goddard (St Kilda) Hamish McIntosh (North Melbourne) Dane Swan (Collingwood) Emerg: Brendan Fevola (Brisbane) Michael Barlow (Fremantle) Brian Lake (Western Bulldogs) James Frawley Demon half-back has emerged from three years of development (for 40 games) to become a classy backline general in 2010. Frawley is now stopping players of the ilk of Jonathan Brown whilst providing plenty of run and rebound, averaging 18 disposals and five marks. Possibly the most improved player in the league. Unlucky: Dale Morris (WB) is as reliable and courageous as ever, and stops talls and smalls for the Dogs with a minimum of fuss. Nick Maxwell (Coll) Inspiring skipper has become an elite rebounder and brave stopper, especially good in the air. Matthew Scarlett Daniel Bradshaw kicked six goals and made Brisbane look silly in round six. In round seven he came up against the genius of Scarlett, and had two kicks. The Cat veteran is still blanketing opposing forwards and launching Geelong attacks as brilliantly as ever. Unlucky: Chris Tarrant (Frem). Tarrant, along with Luke McPharlin, has been a big part of the Docker defence becoming a force. Strong, quick and experienced, he is an excellent spoil and has the aggression to boost younger teammates. Brian Lake (WB) is superior to most full-backs in every statistic, and his run and creativity makes him invaluable to the Dogs. But he’s also strangely prone to shaky spells, where his ambition overcomes his judgement, and there have been more of them than usual so far this season. Alipate Carlile (PA) is big, strong and more mobile than many expect. His maturation is helping form a sturdier Power back half. Dustin Fletcher He’s 35, and weighs 100 kilos if the records are to be believed, but the smoothest mover in the frenetic 2010 backlines has been the Bomber veteran. He seems more composed the more helter skelter the game becomes, and the more pressure his young Essendon backline finds itself under, as on Anzac Day, when he was superb mopping up against Collingwood. Outstanding so far in 2010, with a midfielder’s figures of 19 possessions a game. Unlucky: Scott Thompson (NM) is making giant strides in the back half for North Melbourne, his rebounding effort against Melbourne in round six showing off his toughness, poise and defensive nastiness. No one mentions that Michael Jamison (Carl) is "short for a key position player" any more – he plays tall every week and is one of the best stoppers in the business. Corey Enright Still keeps a low profile, despite playing for the all-conquering Cats, but his poise, ball-winning (26 possessions a game) and exquisite delivery make him our first picked on a flank. Unlucky: Brady Rawlings (NM) Has thrived since being moved to the backline this season, beating his opponents and providing rebounding drive with 27 touches per week. Troy Chaplin Port’s unfashionable but highly effective left-footer is fast growing into one of the best rebounding big men in the league. Averaging 21 disposals and seven marks per game, he was central to the round five win over St Kilda, holding his nerve and skill level whilst distributing the ball 32 times. Unlucky: Matt Maguire (Bris) The former Saint's return to AFL footy has been tremendous with Brisbane. Often taking on number one key backman duties, he has taken six marks a week while nullifying opposition talls. Heath Shaw Occasionally prone to inexplicable mistakes, but in every other regard an elite half-back, happiest when taking on the game and creating attack out of defence. Good in the air, quick across the ground, brave, daring and possessed of good vision, he remains one of Collingwood’s biggest weapons. Unlucky: Jack Grimes (Mel) Brilliant start to the year for this highly-skilled former number 14 draft pick. Great in traffic, good by hand and foot, and sets up play well down the ground. Jimmy Bartel More of the same from the gifted Cat in the Geelong midfield in 2010, which means more breath-taking courage in the packs, clever ball use outside them, and hard-running all over the field. Averaging 25 disposals and six tackles per game. Unlucky: Previously maligned Dale Thomas (Coll) is in career-best form, consistent and prolific on the wing; David Mundy (Frem) is lifting his game to a new level in the Docker midfield; Ryan O’Keefe (Syd) continues to perform at an elite level for the Swans; James McDonald (Mel) is back to his tenacious best in the Demon engine room; Andrew Carazzo and Kade Simpson (Carl) are as consistent as ever for the Blues in roles as varied as winger, tagger, half-back and half-forward; James Kelly (Geel) is pushing his silky talents further up the ground for the Cats since the return of Josh Hunt to the Geelong backline. Joel Selwood Superstar in the superstar midfield, Selwoood continues to play with ferocity and rare vision in the clinches. Had a couple of down games, particularly against Carlton in round five, but otherwise it has been business as usual for the prolific right-footer. Hard to believe it is only his fourth senior season. Unlucky: Matthew Boyd (WB) Tough, creative, the heart of the Bulldog ball-winning machine, he missed a couple of games, and the Dogs badly missed him. Scott Pendlebury (Coll) Smooth-moving iceman who loves working a way through midfield mazes. Jobe Watson (Ess) Just keeps getting better, now growing in stature in response to being made Bomber skipper. Rare ball-extraction skills overcome any ragged edges on his disposal. Leigh Montagna Tougher than he looks at first, because he is such a silky mover. Prolific ball-winner, uses it well, and works hard. Grabs the footy nearly 30 times a game, and pumps the Saints inside fifty five times a week. Unlucky: Daniel Giansiracusa (WB) reminded everyone of his talents with a brilliant 36-possession game in the centre when replacing Matthew Boyd; Travis Boak (PA) is living up to early rave billings with a productive season as a skilled linkman; Michael Rischitelli (Bris) has been consistently effective for the ageing Lions midfield. Paul Chapman This elite talent is rising to new levels in 2010, if that is possible. He leads the league for kicks, has booted 11 majors and laid 35 tackles. In his high half-forward role, combines aggression with skill to be the number one small forward menace in football. Jonathan Brown (captain) You can measure just how good Brown’s season has been by its two quiet games. He was so dominant in the other encounters that we came to expect match-winning exploits every week. He is second on the goalkicking table and third for most marks, but leads, as always, for inspiring deeds of skill, bravery and audacity. Adam Goodes Not a stellar start to 2010 for the dual Brownlow medallist, but even though his efforts have been overshadowed by the spectacular success of Swans full-forward Daniel Bradshaw, the versatile superstar still figures as a goalkicker (two per game) and marking target. His consistent output has been crucial to Sydney’s rise. Steve Johnson Brilliant, elusive star forward who is uncommonly unselfish for a player with all the tricks. Has booted 19 majors and had a hand in many more, proving almost impossible for some defenders to tackle. Daniel Bradshaw Gets the nod at full-forward over Brendan Fevola because of the match-winning impact of his best performances, superior contested marking and ability to win, not give away, free kicks. Has snared 24 majors and been a huge factor in Sydney’s excellent start with his strong leading. Unlucky: Without kicking a bag, Brendan Fevola (Bris), has remained a potent goalkicker (24 goals), revelling in his tag-team with fellow star Jonathan Brown. Barry Hall (WB) started brilliantly, and has since been a victim of double-and triple-teaming, as well as the 'confusion' of Bulldogs midfielders unused to such an imposing target near goals. Eddie Betts Gets the nod as pacy small forward ahead of Stephen Milne with more goals (16 to 14) and tackles laid (23 to nine). Has become a threat all over the front half for the new Carlton forward line, combining brilliantly with fellow indigenous crumbers Jeff Garlett and Chris Yarran. Unlucky: Stephen Milne (SK) is a menace for opposition defences, especially when he is forced to kick at goal under pressure, he now exerts enough defensive pressure to have become the complete modern small forward. Mark Jamar The big Russian is winning clearances and taking big grabs. The wait has been long (80 games in eight seasons), but he is delivering now, with ultra-competitive pack work, 200 hit-outs (second only to Fremantle’s man-mountain Aaron Sandilands) and the occasional big mark at either end of the ground. Unlucky: Shane Mumford (Syd) has been a great pick-up for the Swans, winning the ball at ground level (89 possessions) as well as competing well in the air and laying enough tackles (29) to remain in the game in the packs. Gary Ablett Unsurpassed for speed, skill, delivery under pressure, evasive skills, he also tackles hard and kicks goals. The complete, irrepressible package. The numbers do him justice - 216 possessions, 13 goals, 32 tackles. Chris Judd The key to Carlton is in fine form after missing the first three rounds of the season. Has his blistering pace back and is using to such advantage that many teams are not bothering to try to tag him. Dynamic at stoppages, he also has the nous to find the ball in open field play, and he rises to the big moments in games Luke Hodge (vice captain) Started the season slimmer, with the promise he could return to his natural habitat on the ball, and promptly delivered a best on ground performance in round one. Has quickly found himself bailing out the Hawk backline once more as an undersized key defender. Brilliant ball user, brave, and a warrior in the clinches. Brendan Goddard Another on-baller being used in different role this season, finding himself made full-forward after the injury to key forward Nick Riewoldt. Has also been a backline rebounder and midfield generator – in all roles using his football smarts and elite kicking skills superbly. Thirteen goals, 22 tackles and 171 possessions so far. Hamish McIntosh Next best of the thin Victorian ruck stocks, performing solidly for the Kangaroos with 161 hit-outs, 30 marks and 96 possessions. Dane Swan Somewhat under the radar given the improved performances of the deepening Collingwood midfield, but Swan just keeps racking up the possessions (206, third in the AFL). And they are won all over the field, from the heart of the hottest centre bounce battle to the last line of defence and deep in attack. Brendan Fevola (see above) Cameron Ling – still the game’s best tagger, and a big possession winner (20 per game) in the toughest battles of the midfield. Michael Barlow – revelation in the Dockers midfield. Tall, quick, strong, prolific ball-winner, and an honest, consistent performer, some feel he has as many as 11 Brownlow Medal votes after just seven rounds.

Gys was likened to a Joel COrey type of player drafted by Barry P. That'd be handy.

Wet Toast haven't won a last quarter all year. I don't think we have lost one. We should beat 'em.

I would bare my bum in Bourke St if JW played in the ruck against NikNat. What next (face palm.)

He has admitted it. Pretty had not to when its there in glorious video footage.. Obviously didn't fit in it the Filth so thought he needed to get himself a record.

Enough of this speculating. My namesake might play on for two or so more years yet....

FFS this is pathetic (I know you were just reporting you heard it...). Martin like all draftees is on a two year contract. They are NOT allowed to talk to him until the end of 2011!!!!!!!!

I reckon the last thing the Dees want is to fuel the Watts v NikNat debate. He played a good game against a poor side. It won't hurt to have another one or two of those...

You guys are missing several things: Firstly Bennell is a small guy and a player sliding in can give/receive enormous damage to themselves or a player they collide with. Its simply not worth it in the long run. A Bennell out for 10 weeks does no good to the team for 1 brave/foolhardy act to appease you. Secondly, the tackling on Friday was very intelligent. They did not give away silly free kicks which you would often do by barging in. What they did on a lot of occasions was waited a fraction of a second before tackling the player legally. Thirdly, my observation is that you have never played the game at any senior level have you? There are smart ways to engage the opposition on a wet and slippery night and there are dumb ways. The smart way is what Bennell did when he scored that fantastic goal.

Chip Frawley's should never have happened. It was a result of the WRONg Sylvia out on the full decision.

Yeah right. Bohdan is responsible for all these shoulder injuries???

You guys are wrong on this!! If a player gets tackled and disposes correctly its play on. Thats what happened with Dunn. The prior opportunity ONLY comes into play if Dunn doesn't dispose of the pill correctly.

Locked and loaded for the Rising Star this week. Is 100x the player NikNat is. Maybe Sculls should grow dreadlocks....

Blease has played 1 game - let me repeat that ONE GAME - in nearly 2 years. He along with Watts were the two youngest players taken in the 2008 draft (we took young guns because GC17 got dibs on all the good 17yo's in 2009). Serious injury - remember Nathan Brown??? - needs plenty of time. You may be frustrated but FFS be realistic about how long it takes to build footballers.

Nick Sautner?? Cheap, good, experienced, available....

Ring em up and tell you to send the right one...

Not the Dons. They have form. Were penalised in 1996 for breaches between 91 and '96. They won a flag in his period remember.....

I thought it was common knowledge that he wouldn't play or wasn't up to DBs game plan. The major point being his defensive work was sub-par.

Prepare to mix with lots of Doggie supporter coming from out West!

Last year we played Adelaide at the G on a freezing (14deg) Subday afternoon at 4:40pm. We got bagged widely in the media cos we only had 14,400ish. The previous day at 2pm Sat afternoon in bright sunshine, Geelong played Richmond at Kardinia Park and only had 15,000. Not a word spoken. The whole crowd thing makes me scream. Perception is reality people and we have to stop the perception we draw small crowds. We may not be able to get 90k (altho we did for the 2000 GF) but we regularly get 60k for QB - a home game against a big drawing team. The draw is stuffed but we cannot let media stereotypes about crowd numbers to flourish.

IMO they won't drop Joel MacD. He played a poor game but they need his solid body and experience against the Doggies. Should do well on Hahn I reckon. And for third man up against Bazza. Gysberts for Bennell is more interesting. We wouldn't lose much and just might gain some cleaner disposal.