John Crow Batty

Apparently there may be a rift between Fyfe and Ballantyne. Given the other rumours it may be best for all if Fyfe moves on. Hayden Ballantyne fuels "fresh start" rumours, denies rift with Nathan Fyfe

I question now whether we would need or want one or both of these players. The improvement in our defence has been excellent in the second half of the season. The two Macs and Frost look capable of now doing all of the heavy lifting. We have very promissing players in Wagner and Hunt. Jetta is rock solid and we have Melksham and Salem to return.

He won't jump but would be happily pushed as he still has a nice fat contract.

It has been pleasing and a relief that we are not finishing off the season badly as we were for a long time. Has been a nightmare for us. After last week it proves that we are now capable of getting more scalps which didn't look likely a few rounds ago.

Flanagan has been consistently sympathetic in his writings about us but I find this quote an interesting admission. Something also many supporters suspected for quite a few seasons in the dark days. "What Melbourne have now is a core of ambitious footballers who actually want to play for the club and jointly pursue their sporting passion."

This is great news and very important the deal was done. This is a boon for confidence going into next season.

The speculation goes on and on though.

The tide is turning. Roger waters.

Any news on TMac?

Wow they look so young. Like under 15's

I sometimes wonder what the chemistry is between him and the playing group. Though his visible attitude has improved, his sullen and demanding moods are still there. Something does not gel with his presence on the forward line. There has been criticism of his defensive work and he doesn't bust packs like he did last season to take big contested grabs. Just content to sit passively under the ball at times. Not in injury prevention mode I hope.

Is the team too Hogan-centric or is Hogan too Hogan-centric?

I don't think it was only Jack that may have felt that way about Neeld.

I think his role should be discussed in depth but not today.

Hogan- Not missed today.

Special mention to Pederson. After a relative quiet first half he was brilliant in the final quarter. And gave some great physical contests all day.

Fantastic 4 quarter team effort with a functioning forward line. Best ever win under Roos. Pride has returned to the club.

I don't think we will miss Hogan at all. I hope the stars align like they did last season when he missed.

If he had 'bought in' to our club we would have been better off.

Make me! I dare you.

We were not worthy as demonstrated by his half arsed self preservation efforts in his last season with us. He was not interested in us because he wanted to play for a flag chance club.

His post best not be taken with any seriousness. Only a fanboy cheerleader.

With 22 players that will cost a lot of money above the basic buffet.

Hurley and Rance had relatively slow starts to their careers. There were also questions asked about their chances of making it. Both have a season on TMac for experience and games played. They are all closer than you think. And there are few if any like for like big defenders on the market.

" or what ever the case may be"