bing181

Well, they have lost 1%. If they lose by a goal or two next round, that'll take off another 1% or so. We probably need to make up most of that percentage difference against Carlton. From what I can see, if we limit them to 60 points or so, we'll need to win by 9+ goals. Of course, GWS could thrash North, or we could thrash Geelong even if North lose a close one, but there's not much margin for error here. To have any chance, we're going to have to play at our very best for the next two games.

Not the only one it seems. Clubs/AFL getting serious on concussion, and not too soon. http://www.afl.com.au/news/2016-08-19/concussion-leaves-crow-sam-shaws-career-in-doubt

Gutsy changes, obviously looking to the future, keeping the pressure on the players, and rewarding players who work when they're at Casey. Bummer for Trengove and JKH that they didn't get a look in, but those included have earned it.

Int; Oliver, Michie, Weideman, Neal-Bullen Em; Garland, Pedersen, Harmes Michie, Neal-Bullen, Weideman in for Garlett, Pedersen, Harmes

Have to remember, it's only his first season, and he didn't have a full pre-season to prepare. Should have a better run at it next year, but with Melksham and Salem back in contention, will have to fight for his spot.

Ignorance much? Lumumba on hold after another head knock

Who the hell are you to pontificate on who should/shouldn't be affected by someone's death, and how they should respond?

Or simply have a long-term concussion issue ... but probably too obvious.

Bit of end-of-season slump for them, players with nothing to play for, Murphy out etc.. This means a lot more to us than them ... just hope we haven't got ahead of ourselves.

I'd go Mitchie for Harmes. But then I'm probably not seeing what the coaches are seeing. Disappointed Salem isn't included, feel that we need that kicking accuracy, but perhaps it's a step too far for him at this stage of coming back. Also, was wondering whether Trengove mightn't get another look in, he seems do be doing increasingly well at Casey. But probably needs a solid pre-season before that'll happen.

Wouldn't count on it.

I wonder if the match committee mightn't be keeping an eye on a side to take into the finals, if so ... Salem in? I know that publicly it's "one match at a time", but behind the scenes, surely there's some planning going on, just in case ...

His field kicking is fine, it's the set shots that are problematic.

I remember back in the day, after yet another Melbourne thrashing, going across to our opponent's Board (Hawthorn, Swans, North ... whoever) and see everyone complaining about how badly they'd played, and dreaming of the day when we could [censored] about how badly we played, but still come away with a win. Especially, remembering that this was Port at home, and they had as much to play for as us (finals etc.). Wonder if Ollie Wines had a teensy twinge of regret? Not sure of the way forward for Port. Demons on the other hand ... and we've still got Salem, Weiderman etc. etc. waiting in the wings.

This from the Age will have a few choking on their drinks: "Dom Tyson, Clayton Oliver Jayden Hunt and Angus Brayshaw also had their quality moments, backed up by a resilient defence led by Oscar McDonald."

Not a fan of Dean Kent's game tonight. So many errors.

We had the chance to put them away, even that quarter there were some easy missed shots on goal. If we lose, no-one to blame but ourselves.

Thank god for that. But still, messy, and plenty of poor disposal (not to mention, some really poor kicking on goal ...

Nasher, Nasher ... I think you know the answer to that.

Not sure how the plot thickens. There have been ongoing reports that he's still showing symptoms of concussion, and with no realistic possibility of him playing again this year, makes sense to give him some time away. Whether there are other factors, who's to know. Wish him well, must be difficult for him.

I don't think Weideman will keep his place ... both Hogan and Dawes (OK, I know) should be available. I'd take Pedersen over Weideman at this stage. Otherwise, maybe a mystery injury? Oliver got a heavy knock, Bernie's nose and Jetta's everything. The player I'd like to see is Salem, but not sure if he's ready. Is 2 games back in at Casey enough? Also BenKen, must be an outside chance. etc.

Salem ready for a recall?

It'll change. My teenage son has been on/off lukewarm, but is becoming a convert.

That's because he was up in Jackson's office, signing a new contract.

Is there an idea in here somewhere for Demonland? Not just sponsoring a player, but make a contribution elsewhere, where it can really have an effect and is needed. Just saying.