Hi all, I have been a Demons supporter for over forty years. I grew up in Collingwood but always followed the Demons. It was very tough being a Dee's supporter in Collingwood then. One of my earliest childhood memories was when I was given a 2 pound note by a drunken Melbourne supporter after the 64 GF when I was sitting on a fence near the MCG after the GF.
I've been a Demons member on and off for over 30 years including the Redlegs at one stage. Not a current member, now very busy and never around for many games. I manage to attend 2 or 3 a year. I have been reading this forum for a few months now and I was surprised to find that there are so many passionate supporters here. I don't know many first hand in my social circles so I don't discuss footy much.
What motivated me to join this was last weeks game against the Hawks. I watched the game in a pub in Darwin amongst a group of neutral fans. What interested me was that most of them didn't rate Hawthorn much but how they commented on how bad Melbourne was. Can they get any worse? The reality hit home for me as no doubt many here already feel.
A few thoughts on the current situation.
Commitment.
Without mentioning names, I get the impression there are a few players that may be cursing their luck at being involved with such a mediocre club. I think it reflects in their performances and attitude.
Newton, Miller and Dunn.
It appears these guys are the current whipping boys for many of the current ills. As we are all now resigned that this is will be another development year and with many good players still out with serious injuries or not fully fit then I believe they should be given every chance to prove themselves in the short term. Play them for five or six weeks irrespective of form. Dunn midfield, Miller CHF and Newton FF. No chopping and changing.
While no expert on strategy and tactics it appears to me the Melbourne game plan is overly ambitious. Players not up to it and zero confidence to match. Keep it more simple, basic and accountable just like Northey did when he became coach. Once players can demonstrate more confidence then develop the game plan further.
Cheers all and I hope we see a vastly better performance today.
