Bitter but optimistic

[censored] me ! We have officially returned to the bad old days. It's just round 3 and you can start planning your September holidays.

I have tried to look at this rationally and logically but .... no matter how hard I try .... I just can't get angry or indignant at a player getting off for whacking that POS, Mason Cox.

Sadly, I'm unable to attend to today but watching a bit of Essendon get flogged did improve my mood. I must admit, I hate Darklands ( it's a soulless [censored] ) so that, combined with The Manor's luxuries, is a good reason to be an armchair expert today. I expect we will (must) win this game but it won't be a pushover. Norf have some gun kids and if we allow them to get their tails up they will be difficult to rein in. Their midfield has some class but ours is classier, although Max will likely have it a bit tougher this week. Looking for a big one from Clarrie. We certainly have a few missing today. I really like watching Windsor's class - he's an emerging champ. However, it looks like we'v e found another one in Lindsay who looked remarkably cool and composed for a debutant. Langford is stiff and I reckon we made a poor decision in starting him as sub last week. Missing May again hurts but with Petty back where he belongs and Tmac apparently still slurping from the fountain of youth we still look strong down back. Norf aren't great in defence so it will give our forwards an opportunity to click. I just hope Fritsch doesn't move more than 30 metres from the goal square and that JVR clunks a few in the dry conditions and builds some confidence.The same goes for Jeffo. I noticed that Turner got some bad press on this site but I like his energy and straight kicking. I'm hoping he'll surprise his critics. Trac going forward and kicking a couple will again be crucial. Dees by 19.

Yep. Had the same problem last week and it’s still there today. Not good enough!!!!!

@Lucifers Hero your input please.

Someone will know for sure but .... my damaged memory recollects that one Peter "Crackers" Keenan was suspended for striking in his first game. Comments or correction are most welcome.

Actually fd , I reckon the first goal will do the trick !!!

Too late deever ! The Manor's attack dogs have just breakfasted.

I'm no great weather forecaster but there is currently some rain and bluster ( not only mine ) at The Manor. This , combined with a look at the radar and an examination of a hapless chook's innards convinces me that inclement conditions will be all gone by this arvo.

It's showtime, and your ever reliable Uncle Bitter is manfully shaking off a number of ailments to head to the G today. My first action will be to pick up a footy record in order to identify half our team. It's certainly exciting times in terms of team development but we will need these new dees to earn their keep if we are to beat GWS. It's just as well @picket fence is currently on a beach far away as his presence would be a certain danger to nearby spectators if Jeffo slots one. Max will be the key to our mids getting first use so I expect we get plenty of opportunities inside 50. The points of interest will be just how and where we deliver it, and who steps up to convert. Kozzie has left a glaring and , no doubt , very costly hole. Our experienced forwards must lead the way. I'm sure Trac will spend a lot of time forward and I reckon he'll need to kick or create 4 to give us a show. Hopefully Fritter can rediscover some form. JVR is also in for a testing day. Hopefully, if those experienced players can produce that will ease the pressure and create opportunities for the new faces to hit the scoreboard. This is a big test first up but geez a win would really kick start our season. I'm tipping the Dees will surprise and sneak the 4 points. In any event, the whips will be cracking at The Manor tonight!!!!

I have just returned to The Manor after watching my first training session in about 2 years. I followed that up with a pleasant luncheon at The Duke along with a currently expelled Demonlander. Just a couple of observations. Tmac. In rehab but geez I reckon he’s shed a few kegs. Clarrie. Also looked in terrific condition and moved really smartly in both match sims and other drills. I reckon he’s back ! JVR. Was very clean with his hands. Admittedly he wasn’t under real pressure but I’m hoping he’s developing into a one grab man. Was also moving very well and exuded confidence in everything he was doing. Big year coming up? Trac. Looked ripped as ever and, perhaps more importantly, looked at ease with the world. Tom Campbell. First time I’ve seen this bloke. He’s a big bastard. Looks a real head beater! Harvey Langford. Saw him do a bit. He seems very comfortable in the group and demonstrated good kicking skills. He will be a good size when he adds a bit of upper body muscle. PS. I was going to buy a snag but there was a rough looking sheila behind the till. I reckon she was carrying a shiv so I kept my distance.

Who said this ?

Agree totally Red! For an experienced veteran ( and a bloke I'd previously considered a sportsman ) Kohl's exchange with a young first gamer was [censored] weak. Note. the replays clearly show that Konstas was walking his own line and minding his own business when Kohli bumped into him

arhhhh I've often wondered if e e cummings was your muse dc

Please refrain from such slurs Red.