P-man

It would be quite a surprise to see Smith played forward when he’s been training as a defender for quite a while now. To flip that on its head, at this stage, does not seem very Goodwin-like All will be revealed when I knock off at 4.30pm with beer in hand.

Not sure I’d be relying on Hunt’s kicking out of the back half. It’s forward or bust for mine. Looks likely he’ll be wearing a different jumper next year. Agree that with those outs Lockhart would’ve been a good in, but if Rivers can do the job on Papley we should get the chocolates.

I think there’s a bit of cognitive bias occurring when it comes to Jones. Those who think he’s finished are seeing a much slower, mistake-ridden player. Conversely those who think he still has value are focusing less on his failings and more on his positive contributions onfield. I fall more into the latter category. He’s on the decline certainly, but he’s not significantly slower to my eyes. His experience onfield alone is a great asset to have. Leaving him stuck on 290 odd games would be a tremendous shame for player and club. But he should only get to 300 if he deserves that last 10 games. He would want the same. My view is that he does deserve them and should go around for one more season. I’d be surprised if Goodwin doesn’t think the same.

Just watching the replay and there’s no way Hannan should keep his spot. Was poor almost every time the ball went near him. Agree with earlier comment about Spargs’ defensive pressure being better than most. Should retain his spot on that basis. Pickett due for a rest. I’m wary to drop Oscar when May played arguably his best game of the year and Lever played his natural game. Wouldn’t mind see Hunt given an opportunity although I’d be happy for Demoniand villain Nibbler to come in. And time to release the Harley.

Come on you [censored] Demons.

Maysy [censored]!!

Aside from no obvious replacement for Lockhart, it’s not that much of a shock if you break it down. We will likely need Brown to provide a meaningful contribution to pull it off though. The lack of speed is a concern, as it usually is when we play the Saints, but with the right mindset we have the tools to get it done.

Bloody Richmond in the box seat to win it again this year ?

If he was in a Richmond jumper he’d be an absolute monty. He’ll surely make the squad but I have no confidence he’ll make the side. The fact it’s an ex Melbourne player mentioning his name for the first time in the media says it all. Someone like Jonas will take his spot, largely because of where Port sit on the ladder. Prove me wrong AA selectors.

And we swapped him for a bloke who excelled as a forward in juniors and became an A grade defender. Circle of life.

Fair call. Might leave Harmes in that case although could equally have Jones/Brayshaw rotate in the back half. Such was the nature of the performance I’m even flirting with the idea of playing Harmes forward. Our smalls let us down badly.

Out: Preuss, T Mac, Spargo, Harmes, Sparrow In: Gawn, Brown, Hunt, Bedford, Jones Would love to bring in a player of Benell’s quality but when defending the ground is the question he isn’t the answer. Hunt is a must inclusion for me which may seem strange but we need his speed and hunger in the forward half. Melksham read the riot act. Another week of that rubbish and he can go.

That’ll learn us for getting our hopes slightly up.

Our forward pressure in this game has been deplorable.

How do you not kick that?

T Mac again. Useless. Absolutely [censored] useless.

Trenners on Open Mike will be worth a watch.

I hate Derwayne but “Fritsch magnet”. Gotta pay that.

T Mac doing T Mac things. Stop picking him. He’s done.

Love the big Preusster but when he’s your best player for the term it’s not a great sign.

Looks pretty swirly out there. Kicking across the ground is risky.

Dogs are on big time today.

Such a soft call against Sparrow. Ridiculous.

Hibbo no.

Hitouts 7-0