Little Richard

Picking up either Allen or Waterman would be an awesome result but I'm with @Storm Boy - we need to focus on finding our next generation midfielders.

Maybe I'm just basking in the post-win optimism, but I'm starting to think we have the makings of an exceptional forward line. JVR, Fritsch, and Pickett are all proven performers. Chandler is cementing his spot and even though it's very early days, I think Turner may become an excellent third-tall option. We just need another genuine key forward, which may eventually be Jefferson... or someone we bring in, like Waterman.

I thought Gawn being subbed was just precautionary?

Chandler is solid, plays a great second fiddle to Pickett in the small forward pecking order. Don't think we need to change anything there.

He's such a key piece of the puzzle. I'm hoping that a fit Spargo can fill that role when he's back and Milkshake hangs up the boots, as he also has unreal vision and poise going inside 50.

Not watching live but looks like AMW is getting a fair bit of the ball, how is his disposal so far?

I think we'll see him and Hore back in the side sooner rather than later.

We're gonna win this, Petty to kick 7.

The kids are getting treated so poorly at selection. How can any of these young guys begin to build confidence without any kind of faith from the coaching staff and a decent run at it. Pathetic.

I am of the belief that no player is bigger than the club and therefore, if the right trade comes along you should take it for the betterment of the organisation. However, to absolutely contradict myself, there are also players who are and should be an exception to that rule and Gawn is one of them. Petracca is probably our only other one at this point. For both of them it goes well beyond what they deliver on-field.

This just shows how damn good he is at his best. He's having a shocking year by his own lofty standards, yet if it was anyone else they'd be a decent midfielder. It also exposes how much we relied on him producing exceptional performances week in, week out.

It's harsh on Tomlinson but probably what will happen - would prefer to see them drop Petty (let him sort himself out at Casey for a few weeks) and throw McDonald forward, keep Tommo down back with May and Lever.

We can't drop Fritsch, he's been down but without him our forward line is absolutely horrific.

He's such a tough one, has some really great attributes (which have faded admittedly); a great set of hands in the air, can roost the ball and is pretty physical. But he can't seem to find his rhythm. I had really high hopes for him as a midfielder but these days I'm agreeing with you. Half back might work well.

Fine, don't disagree with that. But now they've set a precedent they need to stick to it... but of course, they won't.

I'd give him a crack sooner rather than later. Surely Petty doesn't have many chances left, unless they decide to put him back and put McDonald up forward.

Bring in Jeffo

He is though?

Great to see him back in form.

Can't wait to see him in action! How's his form been at Casey? Haven't been following too closely

Honestly, in true MFC style that's the game we'll probably win (after losing to North) 🤣

Keen on some savvy deals but I think it's critical we use high picks this year where possible.

McDonald to go forward while his confidence is sky high and Petty to play down back. If it's not working out, swap them back at half time. Alternatively, drop Petty, bring Tommo back and play him in defence instead.

I think he'll bounce back and don't believe we should trade him. He's an integral part of our midfield and a generational contested ball winner... back him in. In terms of age, he's only 26 so he has plenty of quality footy ahead of him. And I know this is a thread about LDU but jeeeez what I'd give for Nick Larkey.

Absolutely, we have to learn from the McDonald farce. No way we trade Max under any circumstances. I'm also convinced he has a couple more good years left, seeing as he played very little footy earlier in his career thanks to injury (and his current form remains fantastic). Hoping that means his a little bit fresher than your standard 32 year old ruckman.