ignition.

As much as I would love to see him in the red & blue - probably the only Methadon player I would want in the red & blue, he has unfortunately resigned with them until the end of 2017 so wipe him off the list. http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/essendons-david-zaharakis-signs-new-threeyear-deal-20140319-hvkfx.html

Hahahaaaa... thanks mate! I figured it was like that

Ok what have I missed in the last 10 pages (without having to read through and dissect the quality info), can someone summarize the important posts?

I hate those maggots... yes it's harsh but they are! Yesterday during 1/4 time (sitting next to my girlfriend) we were asked kindly by a lady could we move down one seat in the MCC so she could have 4 in a row (not knowing she was a Dons supporter) - we kindly did so. She then nicked off and didn't come back for some 20 minutes into the second quarter, along with her fellow Methadon scum! Not long into it this high pitched male nob next to us started carrying on, referring to us Melbourne fans (all generally speaking) as to$$ers. Although it was us "to$$ers" that gave him his seat. I exchanged a few words with him whilst impersonating his hyena laugh, at half time they went back to the bar and we decided to move as I was fuming (the game and this nob combined ) - only wanting to belt his lights out but would not want to risk the loss of my MCC membership. I guess in the end we had the last laugh with the win (and yes I bloody enjoyed it high fiving a random Melbourne friend we made in our new seats). But this is the second time at the footy I've moved down for people and regretted it, I guess I've learnt my lesson and will only do so from now on if I am certain they are MFC supports or my partners view won't be hindered.

I think that's pretty good! I think you've nailed the mids (particularly with the interchange). The only one change I would have straight off the bat would be Parker or Bruest out for Dangerfield on the half forward line. Also the defenders/ half back line could be played around with a little bit, and Gunston at CHF is questionable. But overall a very nice job.

Your first two words on your second line explain it "He's 21". I agree, I often cringe when the ball is in his hands, but like most of the list he is young and developing. For a pick 53 he is an excellent acquisition, and like most youngsters needs to develop a range of techniques and gain AFL match experience.

Last year I was genuinely concerned about the potential loss of Sylvia, in the end we effectively got Vince to replace him - who's performed far better in his short career here (on a consistent basis) than what Sylvia ever did. My point is whether Frawley stays or goes I'm really not fazed (for once), as I'm certain the club already has a partial backup plan in order. Previously we've seen Frawley restrict the likes of Cloke, Riewoldt (x2), and Franklin etc. to a small handful or sometimes non-existent bag of goals. This year he's been moved forward with the likes of Dunn, Garland, and McDonald holding down the backline - and doing a pretty good job as well. Now I'm not sure what price he's asking but at this point for me he's no Harry Taylor, and I feel he needs to impose himself up forward more often to show he's worth the coin and that he can be one of the games best KPP swing-men. If he's lost our current defenders are more than capable, the compensation and spare change from his and Clark's salary will put us in a prime position to obtain another high end player (or 2) whether they're a forward or midfielder. Now I'm not saying I want him gone, I want him to stay just like any other on here. I only feel the club will have a quality backup plan if he is to leave.

Also to help support your point, mid way through last year AFL followers were criticizing Fremantle for their defensive game, also touting it as "boring". Their game plan took them to a Grand Final unfortunately for them they were unable to deliver on the day. It certainly was a joy watching them steam roll Sydney (nothing against the Swans) in the final the week prior with the immense defense, that to me was a spectacle.

I prefer it over previous game plans seen in recent years, however, I look forward to seeing our game plan evolve and develop to a point where our players can flick a switch and transition quickly into an offensive attack taking the game on, using an open corridor, and catching our opponents flat footed with the options of multiple leading up forwards. My only concern so far is it's too defensive at times, they are too slow to take the ball from one end to the other causing a congestion of players in our offensive zones resulting in this over use of the ball by constantly chipping it back and losing whatever space they had just worked so hard to get. So far it's very promising, we have been able to restrict teams from scoring and are winning a lot of one on ones and contested ball. The next major key that will see us climb the ladder will be "flicking this offensive switch" and taking the game on when need be. The first year under Roos is certainly very promising and I look forward to seeing the game plan develop.

Thanks Machsy, the poll has been updated.

G'day again all, To all who attended the QB match, how many of you noticed the advertisement to "checked in" to the MCG via Facebook as they strive to make it "the most checked in stadium in the world"? I for one didn't do it, as I asked what is their true goal? and what happens if they achieve this? I can only presume it will help make an excuse to maintain or again further increase ticketing and vendor pricing. Maybe it's just the devils advocate within me, but surely there must be more to it than being able to say "Hey.... we have the most checked in stadium in the world.... isn't that just swell!" So please, tell me your thoughts and if you noticed it or checked in. Cheers!

It wasn't entirely due to a lack of a key forward, the main problem was we were too slow taking it down the ground - giving Collingwood far too much time to flood their backline (our forward 50). If we had taken the game on rather than messing around with it chipping it backwards here there and everywhere there would have been plenty of space for the forwards to lead into and take some marks for set shots. Go and watch the replay at AFL.com.au and you'll see how flooded our forward line became, at times nearly every Collingwood player was inside (or just outside) our 50, and when they got it they ran and spread. Also as others have said, Hogan will help resolve this problem by creating another target and I agree with you I wouldn't mind seeing the club target another forward.

I know we have many passionate members on here, but am curious how many we have still umming, arrrhhhing and debating whether or not they should attend the match today. I think we're in for a cracker and am emploring anyone capable to get there, get loud, and help send the filth on their way. Cheers and hope to sing the grand old flag with you this evening.

Earlier in the year I thought he was a goner for sure! Although after his recent interview I feel he is telling the truth and literally waiting to see his options and the clubs direction from an operational perspective. Interestingly a lot of the boys are speaking about finals and I don't think its too far away (not this year) once a few smaller things are cleaned up, the belief around the club has certainly risen. If Roos extends I genuinely feel he will too as he's stated multiple times. He's gone through enough coaches in his time and he wants to see who will be his next. I think that's fair enough.

Perfectly said P-man

Just saw it on the website! FANTASTIC NEWS! He is in fine form!

On the Mitchell subject I get the feeling he is also out of contract this year. It's now his third year since drafted and have not been able to find any webpage stating he extended his contract with the Swans.

I rate Mitchell in the same league as Treloar, Shiel, O'Meara, Prestia, Swallow, Wines, Liberatore, Viney, and Tyson. All are more than likely to become the games future stars when they begin/ reach their primes. If I had the option for one of the three potentially on the table (as discussed being Mitchell, Treloar, and Shiel), I would take Mitchell first just ahead of Treloar (by a bees d***), although would happily have either of those two and take the best deal possible based on other factors like later pick exchanges. His hard at it inside game, clean hands and endurance combined with the rare dash are something to marvel.

You beauty! Thank you "why you little" ripper! I didn't realize the footy was on as I'm stuck in the lab waiting (4 h) between incubations. This should help kill the time Cheers mate!

I disagree regarding Treloar, Shiel, and Cameron as they appear to be the only three young guns producing well and on a consistent basis - especially for their age. For me these three are "blue chip" youngsters, if any are obtained there is a very high chance they will continue to perform and produce at a high level. As for O'Rourke he hasn't really proven himself at the AFL level due to a lack of opportunity and Plowman being a bigger body should take longer. Thus both are far more risky.

From reports, rumours and quotes it appears a few players are disgruntled up there. So far it's suggested that Cameron and Treloar want out, with their contracts expiring at the end of 2015. Others have also suggested Shiel and I'm also curious on O'Rourke's future - did he sign to the end of 2014 or 2015? Surely (emotional bias aside) the MFC must be one of the front runners to obtain such a talent: With the absence of Clark we have freed up ~ $800,000 a year, + a potential $400,000 or so that could have been prematurely terminated from this year and may be able to get payed out next year (depending on the current cap status as to what percentage is currently payed). In other words we have the money. All the players suggested are Victorian, if home sickness is a contributor it will significantly reduce interstate clubs chances of obtaining one. I know it doesn't always count for much but it is something, the fact we have just obtained Tyson (an ex teammate and quality clubman) and also have Viney (ex U18 teammate to some) will help persuade and provide quality intel of the inner sanctum of the club.. We should have a relatively high draft pick (probably top 5) in this years draft to trade if GWS feel that parting ways a year early of the contract expiring is best.

I doubt he personally has at this point as it's against the rules during the season. Although if the rumour is true (thanks for sharing UH btw) it's likely his management has.

Thank you for putting a grin on my face. He certainly looks like a ripper so far.

Couldn't agree more mate. I always find it amusing when these rumours pop up from time to time regarding the players "desired club". I remember once upon a time when everyone was linking Tyson as a near certainty to Richmond.

Written from Matt Burgan from the inner sanctum of the club. If you also listen to the newly uploaded Roos interview (with Burgan) you will hear him mention a three year tenure. I think it's as safe as houses. EDIT: It also ties in very nicely with "Grand New Flag's" recent intel (cheers mate)