Demon Jack

Only 96 games left Jordan!

To his credit, he had a brilliant game on the weekend (albeit against poor opposition). He showed some great tenacity that makes it hard not to remind you of his brother but I'd prefer we target someone with a bit more polish in their finishing like a Kelly (maybe some wishful thinking). Saying that, I wouldn't be against trading for Zak. At worst he'd be handy depth, but I wouldn't be willing to part with anything more than a second round pick.

I think we're missing a good chunk of players from the 2006-2011 era that were expected to be among the club centurions by now. For example, the likes of Bate, Petterd and maybe even Cook are three players that come to mind that just might have featured in the 100+ goal category club if Neeld hadn't been appointed coach.

I've had the usual few hours of post match depression and can now speak about the game without receiving copious headaches and chest pains. Another immensely frustrating loss....When on earth are we going to start winning the games that we go into as favourites? It seems that these are the games that we never seem to have the right 'attitude' for. Why the hell not? We all know that when we're switched on we can just about beat anyone in the league. Granted, we still have a young team, so I guess this might be expected. Maybe losses like this are the only way they'll learn. What annoys me the most is that I actually think we'll really have a good crack against the Crows next week. Moving on individual players, Viney easily played his best game of the year. He was absolutely sensational in the third quarter when we kicked a few goals in a row and were looking likely. It certainly looks like he has his dash and tenacity back. On the other end of the scale, I am failing to see what JKH is bringing to the team. 0 tackles and 0 goals from someone who played the majority of the game as a small forward is just not good enough. It's a real shame considering I was backing JKH to have a good year. In reflection, I'm hoping Kent is brought in next week as his grunt, pace and goal nouse was sorely missed. Frost is an absolute jet. Yes, Roughead kicked four goals (2-3 from questionable calls from the umpire) but his kamikaze like style of playing is an absolute joy to watch. Moving to our other speedster, kudos to Goodwin for trying something different and playing Hunt as a forward during the second half. For a guy well known for his pace, he definitely has a good pair of hands on him. Hunt tried his guts out today, well done to him. In regards to our other forwards, all things considered I thought Hogan was good today, especially in the second half. I think he still could have a 50 goal season if he improves from here. Jeffy also continued his great form. 18 goals from seven games now. While the loss is immensely frustrating, at least there's reason for optimism. We'll get there. Go Dees!

Out: JKH, Bugg In: Stretch, Kent

6. Viney 5. Lewis 4. Oliver 3. Frost 2. Hunt 1. Hogan

Neal-Bullen pretty stiff in my opinion. Aside from a few dodgy kicks, he's been very consistent in applying forward pressure. JKH would surely have to be on his last chance after two 'fumbly' games. I'd much prefer a Stretch or Kent over Jay, Thrilled to see Wagner back in the 22. I think he could be an important part of the team going forward. He could become a 'second Hibberd' considering his size and kicking skills.

It's always nice to hear our name is in the mix. There is absolutely nothing wrong with key position depth. I'd be all for it as it would take the pressure off the likes of Weideman and OMac. Reid has shown some ok signs this year. Also, 25 is still very young for a key position player.

Anyone else notice that when Hibberd kicks the football, he generally hits the target? What is this madness?

Out: JKH, ANB In: Stretch, Hogan (in for ANB if good to go) I'd almost be tempted to bring in Kent to really expose Hawthorn's lack of pace but as it's been already mentioned, he's been fairly average in the VFL over the last fortnight. As much as I would like to drop Melksham, I don't think there's another player who could come and immediately fill his role. I heard that Wagner was best on for Casey and he could certainly play at half-back, but I'd like him to have a couple more weeks at Casey before he's considered.

I counted at least three crucial smothers today. Great desperation.

Indeed

All of Fantasia, Green and McDonald-Tipancantspellhisname have all been incredibly dangerous for Essendon this season. Kudos to Nev and the rest of the backline for keeping them to three goals as a collective.

Tough one this week, for the good reasons. 6. Oliver 5. Watts 4. Pederson 3. Lewis 2. Petracca 1. Viney Apologies to Jones, Jetta, Hibberd & Hunt.

Oliver with another 33 disposals.

Hannan has done his bit today.

Trac kicks his fourth and Essendon supporters have had enough.

Green, Fantasia and McDonald-T all quiet for the Bombers today. Our defence has held strong, especially the milestone man in Neville Jetta.

Lewis! Is that his first goal as a Demon?

Couple goals to Essendon. 33 point margin, Wouldn't mind one more goal for some comfort.

Watts kicks his fourth! He has been brilliant today, like he has been all season. EDIT: As I type, Hannan extends the lead!

God we need this win. Massive in the context of our season. It was great to see it 'click' in that quarter.

Watts kicks his third. This now an eight goal quarter!

Clever by ANB. Hannan kicks a goal! Dees by 26.

The floodgates are opening. Jeffy kicks his third!