Sydney v Nth Melbourne Gameday Thread - Jetta sub

[Matt79]

Jetta to sub.

[liz]

Glad it's not Parker again or the other LJ

[wolftone57]

Interesting! I thought young Lewie needed a little rest in the 2's as at times in the last 3 or 4 weeks he has looked a little lethargic to say the least. Pity TDL is not in our team I ache to see his silky skills, though I get the feeling Horse doesn't like specialist forwards or highly skilled players

[wolftone57]

Parker reminds me of Barry Mitchell lots of intelegence in his play & never seems to panic. I like the idea he is getting a go.

[alison.z]

though I get the feeling Horse doesn't like specialist forwards or highly skilled players

Yeah as a coach he probably hates that :confused: TDL has been carrying an ankle injury by the way ...

[wolftone57]

Thanks Alison I didn't realise he was injured, sure is doing well for an injured player av 4 goals a match. If Horse is going to allow injured players to play in the resies & let Mummy play with his dicky leg he is doing an Eade not a Roos, Roosie would have got players right before playing them , look what he did with Micky O

[Matt79]

Glad it's not Parker again or the other LJ

Totally agree Liz. I am very excited to see Parker and LJ get (mostly) a full game dpeending if one of them is subbed off.

[Peace]

barring early injuries, i think they will bring in Jetta early in the 3rd.

[wolftone57]

They should be looking to use him to run Harvey out in the third or to expose North's lack of pace on the wings.

[wolftone57]

I wonder what Horse has in store for L J as it looks as though he will start. Good to see & Parker might start in the middle today, I think he will be good, he reminds me of Barry Mitchel, so much composure

[Captain]

Jetta is a great choice of sub.

Horse must have been reading the threads on here and seen people were unhappy with his previous sub choices :D

[wolftone57]

Alison I don't get that a coach can be a specialist forward & not like specialisation. Horse said on telly earlier in the year that he didn't think the modern game allowed for specialist position players & that players needed to be flexible. A few flexible players, Reiwoldt, Reiwoldt, Buddy, Brown, Hall need any more!!!:rolleyes:

[Dosser]

Ok potting them from outside 50 in the warm-up. I wonder how he would go on the wing?

[Dosser]

Sorry. I meant LI

[Dosser]

Hate this phone. Johnson I meant

[Triple B]

Hate this phone. Johnson I meant

Johnston maybe?... lol, I feel your phone pain.

[Dosser]

A bad workman always blames his tools.

[CJK]

Been watching for 2 minutes and the commentary is killing me already.

Anyway - here we go.

#goswans

[BOC Fan]

Greetings fellow Swans fans. Hi Swans500

[CJK]

Smith = Wells
Shaw = Harvey

[CJK]

Not the best start, hey, what else is new?

[Swannette]

Not sure the swans have turned up to play yet

[Swans500]

Hey Boc....

[BOC Fan]

Hi Swans 500. Are you watching the game live?

[robamiee]

backline is woeful at the moment.....LRT needs to go to Petrie

[CJK]

One way traffic and three goals down.

Time to start drinking.

[Swans500]

Got it on paid AFL live...but feel like turning it off!!!!....

[Swannette]

Oh dear. Petrie is pushing off Ted way too easily. Sydney on the ropes early.

[BSA5]

backline is woeful at the moment.....LRT needs to go to Petrie

Nope. Our midfield just isn't working. They're letting the Roos mids spot up Petrie on a perfect lead every time.

[BOC Fan]

After last weeks terrible loss, I feel your pain.

[CJK]

Swans just not interested.

[happy]

so much for parkers composure

[CJK]

Needed that.

[jono2707]

We are a rabble so far but I am strangely confident - surely we can't be so bad for the entire match....

[robamiee]

its like we want to give them a headstart to make it a challenge

[wolftone57]

Alison I don't get that a coach can be a specialist forward & not like specialisation. Horse said on telly earlier in the year that he didn't think the modern game allowed for specialist position players & that players needed to be flexible. A few flexible players, Reiwoldt, Reiwoldt, Buddy, Brown, Hall need any more!!!

[Triple B]

so much for parkers composure

A bit of talk from the 5 teammates less than 5 metres away may not have gone astray...

[BOC Fan]

We're coming back! (One point at a time). :)

[wolftone57]

We are slow today & getting killed in the stoppages

[Swans500]

BOC, how are you seeing it?....Maybe better not answer that, LOL...

[Triple B]

Grundy has become a 1st quarter turnover merchant. Every week his 1st quarter is awful until he works himself into the game...

LJ nervous as a kitten. Fumbling like he has never fumbled in the 2's.

[wolftone57]

Forward line still a huge worry but Lewis showing a little at least he is presenting but not much else there at ther moment. Doesn't help being killed in the mid

[BOC Fan]

Unfortunately, I can't watch the game. I do have this-

Carlton Draught Match Centre - AFL.com.au (http://www.afl.com.au/tabid/16931/Default.aspx#fixtureid=5534&tab=Live)
Some kind of live update thingy, better than nothing I guess....

[Triple B]

Do you think Dunstall is rooting for Norf?? Sickening

[Swans500]

Try the live radio connection available on the same page you are on....

[DeadlyAkkuret]

I leave for NY on Monday. It seems like I picked a great time to leave the country :frown

[wolftone57]

Better now we need a finish

[wolftone57]

Yes, Yes, Yes

[BOC Fan]

Thanks 500, it works!

[wolftone57]

Gotta stop Swallow

[wolftone57]

What is the matter with our skills they suck

[wolftone57]

That's better nice kick Shaw good kick Reid

[happy]

it really is amateur hour in the commentary booth today

[BOC Fan]

I just looked at the season ladder. North Melbourne is a bottom dweller. Swans had better win this one.. :D

[CJK]

In front! LRT.

[happy]

thompson . owned

[robamiee]

if we can get on top in the midfield around the stoppages we will get on top..as we seem to be getting on top around the ground and now with LRT and Goodsey conversions...now we just need to keep the peddle down and build more of a buffer

[wolftone57]

it's TEN it is always amateur hour

[BOC Fan]

Sweet!

[CJK]

Another game, another goal, against after Grundy screws it up.

[CJK]

it's TEN it is always amateur hour

It's the Fox feed. But I'm with you on TEN.

[happy]

how good is shaw today?

[CJK]

Parker? No.

[robamiee]

pathetic by 3 swans players then....

[Swans500]

We are about where we belong....bottom four....

[CJK]

Goodes getting killed but his opposite man.

[CJK]

You idiot Smith.

[wolftone57]

Skill errors are killing us

[CJK]

Rubbish.

[wolftone57]

we are exactly where we deserve to be. You can't win without a forward set up & by just bombing the ball in & hoping

[Swans500]

Yeah...week after week I say it here....we have no forward line in anywhere near the true and traditional sense and I see no attempt to create one!!!!....same old lucky dip shambles every week which occasionally works...by pure good fortune....

[Captain]

Why wouldn't Grundy start on Petrie???

Good move putting Shaw on Boomer.

Goodes is having a shocker.

[Provost]

agreed on the lack of forward punch.

Not dumbing down Nth's ability but we can't afford to drop these games against sides out of the top 8.

[Dosser]

I wonder if there are stats showing how many opposition goals after a Ground kick?

[Dosser]

Grundy kick #$@% phone

[robamiee]

lets hope we actually decide to come out and play in the 2nd half..
to think we only played 15 mins of good footy and we only down by a goal.....
pick it up boys

[giant]

Who stole my footy team and replaced them with this mob of jokes?

Absolutely pathetic and completely frustrating to watch. Leaders need to lift and new boys need to follow. Hear a lot about pride in the jumper, now is the time to show it.

[Swans500]

Much more of this last coupla weeks and I feel 1992/1993 coming on....couldnt handle THAT a second time....

[Triple B]

thompson . owned

Good call. :rolleyes:

[Hartijon]

Surely we cannot play that bad in the second half? Goodes dropping an easy chest mark in front of goals sums up his game.He has to come back better and stop his tagger scoring goals.Talking is non existent .Witness Smith running too far and getting tackled ,Mattner punching not marking..all signs of no talking!

Good to see Johnston at FF .Why did he sharpen his angle so much to kick at goal and miss?

[giant]

Why wouldn't Grundy start on Petrie???

Good move putting Shaw on Boomer.

Goodes is having a shocker.

Seriously Grundy on Petrie was obvious as Richards on Buddy last week. Wtf are the coaches thinking?

[Provost]

Watch the Horse deliver his 'cunning plan' after the long break.......... put LRT up forward :facepalm:

[robamiee]

Rok wtf?????????????

[wolftone57]

Better but again scrappy goal kicking

[wolftone57]

Go Seebs & no 50 to Bird the umpies are crap today

[robamiee]

Seaby......a noted Goal kicker.....even if Mummy in, Seabes coming out of FF considering our forward structure at the moment, certainly would help us...

[wolftone57]

Kicking in danger rule doesn't exist anymore & our fumbling is going to give them the game I have the @@@@s now, get rid of a couple of the fumblers

[wolftone57]

gees Mal what the f r u doing

[CJK]

Sigh. Goodes.

[robamiee]

Sigh the team.....just no urgency in our play.... no quick ball....no playing on.....

[happy]

eat it firrito

[wolftone57]

The Fwit Ferret strikes again, still not convinced though we have a lot of work to do

[Swannette]

And no talk again. Marty spikes a ball he should have marked if someone had talked.

[CJK]

Nice goal from LJ. Now get him off.

[wolftone57]

Good kick Lewis well done

[robamiee]

LJ our future forward star.....great kick outside 50

[Swannette]

Woo hoo first goal to LJ good kick

[CJK]

LJ is a bit rubbish.

[DeadlyAkkuret]

Crucifying players during their first AFL game...

[CJK]

LOL 'Crucifying'.

[happy]

LJ is a bit rubbish.

rough

[robamiee]

i think he has done alright...its not like he has any good delivery..and pratt is a big body

[Swans500]

Pathetic game from two pathetic sides....who is this Lambert character? Close to the worst kick for goal I have ever seen in a first grade game!!!!....

[Cheer_Cheer]

I reckon Goodes should be subbed off..

[Dosser]

I actually like the look of LJ in the forward line

[giant]

rough

Been beaten one on one about 5 times. Will be a very short AFL career less he shows something soon.

[Triple B]

Just disregard anything CJK say's during the game, game rage obviously.

'Smith is an idiot' was another classic post early on when a clear lack of talk saw him run down...

[DeadlyAkkuret]

We do look far worse than we did last year, it wouldn't look good for Horse if we missed the finals during his first season as coach.

[IrishSwanPerth]

Who wants this the most? answer=nobody, two teams playing for picks in the draft. Shocking footy

[IrishSwanPerth]

LJ can kicks goals if given good delivery, ball looks great off the boot, CJK you aint got a clue

[CJK]

Just disregard anything CJK say's during the game, game rage obviously.

'Smith is an idiot' was another classic post early on when a clear lack of talk saw him run down...

Come on. Smith was being overly cute getting past the first guy and got mowed down. It's no ones fault but his.

But I suppose it is 'not done' to dare criticise Smith. My bad.

[happy]

these umpires cant bounce at all ... how hard can it be?

[wolftone57]

this is painful

[CJK]

Classic Jetta

[happy]

jetstar!

[nomae]

Jetta

[robamiee]

oh yes...Jetta...great play..

[CJK]

Woot Woot - much better!

Classic Jetta again (this time the good type)

[CJK]

Macca, Macca, Macca.

/shakes head.

[robamiee]

MAL......what the hell....

[wolftone57]

Mal w t f another s up that cost

[Cheer_Cheer]

Bye bye season........

[CJK]

Oh dear. Now we're behind.

[robamiee]

we need clearances...we aint getting any

that was a soft free..

[wolftone57]

They want it we don't if Adam Goodes stopped playing for frees & actually did something we might have a show. If he hasn't worked it out yet that when he does that it effects our blokes

[CJK]

I'm hearing 'plays for the free' a lot on TV

[happy]

love benny

[DeadlyAkkuret]

This team will take about 10 years off my life.

[wolftone57]

Bewdy Bennie great kick Jets

[robamiee]

Benny Boy...now we need the clearance.....critical we get it

[robamiee]

See what happens when you go for the ball Goodsey

[CJK]

Come on Sam.....

[DeadlyAkkuret]

This is a huge kick for Reid (obviously)

Terrible kick :(

[happy]

jetta jetta jetta!!!

[CJK]

Jetta so not used to tackling he's hurt himself...

[robamiee]

Nah Fritto elbowed him in the nuts....

[Donners]

Argh, I hate close games!

Two minutes left, one point in it...

[DeadlyAkkuret]

@@@@ YEAH!!!

Grundy epic!!

[CJK]

Why does it always have to be this way?

Anyway I'll take it.

'Cheer Cheer'

[robamiee]

i am booking myself on the heart transplant list if this season continues as is....
4 points, but nothing to be proud of...

[Cheer Squad]

1 point = 4 points

:)

[Big Al]

Liam Pickering "when did you think you had the game won"

When the siren went numb nuts.

[Margie]

I decided at half time that whatever else happened, Rhyce Shaw was getting my 3 votes in the TLM.

Terrible football overall, but the look of relief on Longmire's face said it all.

[Big Al]

So many things wrong with the performance but the courage was certainly evident. Take the 4 points but lots of work to do.

[Donners]

Laughing at the NM supporters whinging on talkback.

[robamiee]

Liam Pickering "when did you think you had the game won"

When the siren went numb nuts.

GOLD...what a dumb comment, likes his 3rd time one...."Swans would be happy with the way they are playing"....your kidding aren't ya./..

[Hartijon]

I decided at half time that whatever else happened, Rhyce Shaw was getting my 3 votes in the TLM.

Terrible football overall, but the look of relief on Longmire's face said it all.

+1 Rhyce did a great job on Harvey and gave us real drive as well.Reg ,Smith and ROK all played well and McVeigh played better as the game went on

[Margie]

So many things wrong with the performance but the courage was certainly evident. Take the 4 points but lots of work to do.

Our tackling seems to have gone backwards.

I think Bird showed plenty today, despite his kicking for goal being a bit off. He's not alone there!

Goodes had a rare average one, whereas Jude played his heart out again.

I like the look of Reid, LRT is pretty reliable and .... well, there is (as Big Al said) lots of work to do.

[Swans500]

Great to get the 4 points, but what a hollow win it seems. Yes, plenty of guts in those last minutes, but look who we were playing. Should NOT have been in such a desperate situation....I dunno....heat of the moment whinging but....something is not right....once again, lucky dip scoring....

[Margie]

+1 Rhyce did a great job on Harvey and gave us real drive as well.Reg ,Smith and ROK all played well and McVeigh played better as the game went on

I watched McVeigh a little closer today and could definitely see some good leadership signs from him.

I agree on Reg and Smith. Interesting remark by one of the commentators that Teddy looked a little nervous. He was playing behind a fair bit. That last line of defence must be an awful place to play in though.

[bennyfabulous]

My two thoughts after this game are; we are really missing K. Jack, and all those supporters living in Sydney need to make a very concerted effort to find longtime Sydney born girlfriends for Sam Reid and Nick Smith

[top40]

Amazing to state that Sydney now has an exact percentage of 100.00. 734 points for, and 734 points against. Also the Swans remain undefeated interstate.

Nevertheless form is currently sub par. Swans need to lift if they are going to win their next two games against Brisbane at the Gabba and Richmond at the SCG; particularly in relation to the latter game.

[Triple B]

Come on. Smith was being overly cute getting past the first guy and got mowed down. It's no ones fault but his.

But I suppose it is 'not done' to dare criticise Smith. My bad.

Mate, you can criticise Smithy all u like, I just think u were unjust and 'Smith u idiot' doesn't sit well. Even if guilty, the rest of his game, particularly his last quarter, was glorious. I think he more than made up for it. I absolutely respect your right to post what u see fit, but your rantings for a few posts there were rantings of a madman, hence I'll elect to disregard any of your posts made during gametime in the future.

Cheer cheer....

[wolftone57]

we might have won but I am not convinced we will get murdered by a good side as in last week. Far too many fumbles & skill errors & it wasn't just the young blokes it was the experienced players, Goodsie, Ryno, Macca & Mal. Ok young Parker made a couple of blues early but I think it was mainly due to the change in pace from the resies, all up I thought he was ok & there were a lot worse who could have been subbed off.

goodsie played for frees all day & even though he was pushed & scragged it would have been better if he just got on with it. I thought they got the better of the umpies, who were shocking. Several contraversial decisions were made by the umpy away from the play. The bouncing of the ball was dreadful, if they can't bounce it throw it up, one caused a North goal & should have been rebounced. The play was allowed to deteriorate to a maul which suited North. They were not that slow, generally we were slower & more tentative. I don't think we deserve to be in the eight but hell I'll take anything playing as badly as we are.

[DeadlyAkkuret]

I'm loving the crying about the umpires on Big Footy.

[Doctor]

I need a Bex and a good lie down after that.

We dodged a bullet or two there but our defence, after the first few minutes, was again pretty solid. Shaw was superb all day and Grundy did a brilliant job on Petrie after being moved onto him. Hanners backed up last week with a decent performance too. Once Reid stops dropping contested marks he'll be a superstar.

Jetta's impact as the sub changed the game and allowed us to win it.

Thoughts on the McGlynn free kick?

[rb4x]

Interesting stat Goldstein 53 HO LRT 3 HO I don't think we can persist with LRT as relief ruck. When Seaby was totally stuffed in the last quarter LRT was thrashed by Goldstein rucking from behind him. Even Petrie had 7 HO with far less time in the ruck. We were getting beaten in the clearances and scrambling to recover from then on. We only won because NM kicking was even worse than ours.

[Foreign Legion]

Saw the first half live then had to leave - luckily I still got to see a 70% of the last half....

Never seen Goodesy fumble so much but his 2nd goal was handy.

My best: Grundy, Shaw, McGlynn, O'Keefe and Hannebery.

A win against a crappy (umpire whingers) side, but at least we salvaged the 4 points.

[wolftone57]

I'm loving the crying about the umpires on Big Footy.

They are crying about the umpies? B Heck they got a very good deal

[Triple B]

Just a few thoughts straight after the game.

I know we weren't great, but I reckon there are a heap of positives to take from today.

Shaw was sensational, Bird was terrific, Smith was cool for the most part and his 1%'s to continually force stoppages and throw-ins in the last quarter was reminiscent of Buchanon's last qtr that day in '05.

I thought McVeigh had his best game for a while, Malceski was OK, even if a bit wobbly down back, but that is not a new revellation. Grundy should do more in the warmup. He has become a first quarter turnover merchant every week before steadying and pantsing his opponent.

Goodes was just terrible and I see that as one of the real positives given we managed to get away with a win. I noticed he had a thumb taped fairly heavily. Is that normal or did he carry a thumb/finger into the game which could explain his deplorable marking?

LJ appeared nervous and fumbly, understandable, but he was really being played out of position so deep in attack. He is much more comfortable and proficient playing a similar role to Sam and hitting up long leads and when he did that, he looked pretty good. When Mummy comes back, I'd like to see Seaby stay in and play Ruck/FF in tandem with Mummy with LJ and Sam hitting up leads around the half forward.

[wolftone57]

I need a Bex and a good lie down after that.

We dodged a bullet or two there but our defence, after the first few minutes, was again pretty solid. Shaw was superb all day and Grundy did a brilliant job on Petrie after being moved onto him. Hanners backed up last week with a decent performance too. Once Reid stops dropping contested marks he'll be a superstar.

Jetta's impact as the sub changed the game and allowed us to win it.

Thoughts on the McGlynn free kick?

Definately there it was an arm chop, there were a couple at the other end that were far more doubtful. Jets was great as sub but I wish he would do it as a full time player. Grunds & the backs were good, Marty was great in a crunch situation & Grunds took that very good mark late ala Leo

[Triple B]

....

Thoughts on the McGlynn free kick?

A bit lucky, but Rawlings did come at him from the front with no eyes for the ball. There was only minimal contact though. I think it was a true 50/50 which went our way.

[Robbo]

What is it with the bloke on the Sydney board at BF 'Stat Machine' who keeps having a go at Grundy? That bloke is a nuffy, Reg was very good today.

We are playing like @@@@s at the minute and we lack a strong target up forward. Reid and Johnstone are only kids still.

Seaby was good today, anyone who thinks Pyke is a better player is kidding themselves.

[Doctor]

Interesting stat Goldstein 53 HO LRT 3 HO I don't think we can persist with LRT as relief ruck. When Seaby was totally stuffed in the last quarter LRT was thrashed by Goldstein rucking from behind him. Even Petrie had 7 HO with far less time in the ruck. We were getting beaten in the clearances and scrambling to recover from then on. We only won because NM kicking was even worse than ours.

I don't disagree with this but with Mummy and Pyke injured we didn't really have much choice today.

[wolftone57]

What is it with the bloke on the Sydney board at BF 'Stat Machine' who keeps having a go at Grundy? That bloke is a nuffy, Reg was very good today.

We are playing like @@@@s at the minute and we lack a strong target up forward. Reid and Johnstone are only kids still.

Seaby was good today, anyone who thinks Pyke is a better player is kidding themselves.

I don't know what you are talking about but Reg was great today, he is bit by bit getting into top form by the end of the season he'll be plating like Geoff Southby. We do need a target up forward & he needn't be a big guy a medium like TDL would do. He's clever, resourseful, sharp and a great shot at goal & I don't know why Horse doesn't like him, players like him win premierships, Darren Jarman, Bucky, Tony Hall, Daikos ring a bell.

[Captain]

My best:

Grundy, Kennelly, Mattner, Shaw, McGlynn

Need to lift (for us to have a chance against good sides):

Goodes, ROK, McVeigh, Teddy

[Captain]

I liked having Johnston in our forward line. It gave us a bit of structure. Would definitely stick with him.

[giant]

Come on. Smith was being overly cute getting past the first guy and got mowed down. It's no ones fault but his.

But I suppose it is 'not done' to dare criticise Smith. My bad.

Well actually if Richards hadn't missed him with a 15m pass he wouldn't have to dodge anyone. Richards, after a great start to the season, is playing with the confidence of a Thanksgiving turkey.

[chalbilto]

I need a Bex and a good lie down after that.

We dodged a bullet or two there but our defence, after the first few minutes, was again pretty solid. Shaw was superb all day and Grundy did a brilliant job on Petrie after being moved onto him. Hanners backed up last week with a decent performance too. Once Reid stops dropping contested marks he'll be a superstar.

Jetta's impact as the sub changed the game and allowed us to win it.

Thoughts on the McGlynn free kick?

What about a cup of tea? By the way do they still make Bex?

[Beerman]

Loved Shaw's tackle on Petrie at the end of the last quarter. Desperation stuff and absolutely saved our bacon, but for all the world it looked a kid tackling his Dad!

[On-Baller]

Just a few thoughts straight after the game.

I know we weren't great, but I reckon there are a heap of positives to take from today.

Shaw was sensational, Bird was terrific, Smith was cool for the most part and his 1%'s to continually force stoppages and throw-ins in the last quarter was reminiscent of Buchanon's last qtr that day in '05.

I thought McVeigh had his best game for a while, Malceski was OK, even if a bit wobbly down back, but that is not a new revellation. Grundy should do more in the warmup. He has become a first quarter turnover merchant every week before steadying and pantsing his opponent.

Goodes was just terrible and I see that as one of the real positives given we managed to get away with a win. I noticed he had a thumb taped fairly heavily. Is that normal or did he carry a thumb/finger into the game which could explain his deplorable marking?

LJ appeared nervous and fumbly, understandable, but he was really being played out of position so deep in attack. He is much more comfortable and proficient playing a similar role to Sam and hitting up long leads and when he did that, he looked pretty good. When Mummy comes back, I'd like to see Seaby stay in and play Ruck/FF in tandem with Mummy with LJ and Sam hitting up leads around the half forward.


Just got back from the game and agree with pretty much everything youv'e said but not sure on Mcveigh,at least 2 or 3 unpressured skill errors from him in the first half 2 of which resulted in goals,easily the best game ive seen Bird play,and while ive knocked Tadgh a bit this year and still am not sure on him his game today was easily his best since coming back last year,biggest issue is everytime he's just put in a run or big effort the next 2 or so minutes is spent with hands on hips walking no matter whats going on around him,great turn around after the first blitz by north and grundy and ted swapping positions early was a big difference.

[Triple B]

Loved Shaw's tackle on Petrie at the end of the last quarter. Desperation stuff and absolutely saved our bacon, but for all the world it looked a kid tackling his Dad!

Yep, that was a super tackle...

And welcome.

[BSA5]

LJ appeared nervous and fumbly, understandable, but he was really being played out of position so deep in attack. He is much more comfortable and proficient playing a similar role to Sam and hitting up long leads and when he did that, he looked pretty good. When Mummy comes back, I'd like to see Seaby stay in and play Ruck/FF in tandem with Mummy with LJ and Sam hitting up leads around the half forward.

I actually liked LJ deep. He was nervous and fumbly as you say, but he leads well, he converts well, and he just has a bit of presence about him. I've never thought about it this way before, but he actually reminded me a bit of Daniel Bradshaw. Not the biggest FF to play the game, but big enough, broad shoulders, reads the play well and can compete at ground level. If LJ can get his upper body and core strength up to scratch (he's only young, he's got improvement in that area), I could really see him turning into that kind of player.

Also, he should grow his hair out again. I like it long.

[wolftone57]

Just got back from the game and agree with pretty much everything youv'e said but not sure on Mcveigh,at least 2 or 3 unpressured skill errors from him in the first half 2 of which resulted in goals,easily the best game ive seen Bird play,and while ive knocked Tadgh a bit this year and still am not sure on him his game today was easily his best since coming back last year,biggest issue is everytime he's just put in a run or big effort the next 2 or so minutes is spent with hands on hips walking no matter whats going on around him,great turn around after the first blitz by north and grundy and ted swapping positions early was a big difference.

Agree, good move but I would like to see LRT in the backs, he is not a forward & definitely not a ruck. Bring Dan Currie in , he can kick a goal & I love his agression. Our Backs are looking like the pensioners of the team but did well today, Teddy, Marty & Tadgh are the oldest other than Bolts & Goodsie.

[Big Al]

Loved Shaw's tackle on Petrie at the end of the last quarter. Desperation stuff and absolutely saved our bacon, but for all the world it looked a kid tackling his Dad!

Great description and what Triple B said, welcome.

[Triple B]

Great description and what Triple B said, welcome.

I wonder why you and I were immediately compelled to welcome the new poster Big Al.

Wouldn't have anything to do with his name, surely not?

[Xie Shan]

only saw bits and pieces and listened to the last quarter on the radio, we aren't playing with any sort of confidence whatsoever but sounds like we just toughed it out in the last quarter. We are still a young side this year so after last week and now this week (only just getting over a team not in finals contention) it says more about where we are at.

[Big Al]

saved our bacon


I wonder why you and I were immediately compelled to welcome the new poster Big Al.

Wouldn't have anything to do with his name, surely not?

mmmmmm.... could be.

[Doctor]

What about a cup of tea? By the way do they still make Bex?

Funnily enough I had the cup of tea straight after the game. On reflection I realised my chances of getting a Bex were remote (no they don't make it any more) and my kids prevent me lying down for too long, so I went for the tea and this forum, which is as close to Bex as I can get for now...

[erica]

While I am always happy to take the four points, I'm unconvinced that we are top four contenders. The closer we get to the Collingwood game in June, the more scared I am.

[Triple B]

Does anybody think Firrito may have a case to answer for the elbow to Jetstar's jewels???

Pretty ordinary act, but it's the kind of stuff you'd expect from him.

[Foreign Legion]

While I am always happy to take the four points, I'm unconvinced that we are top four contenders. The closer we get to the Collingwood game in June, the more scared I am.


We are definitely not top 4 erica with the amount of young/inexperienced players currently getting a game. Too inconsistent - 1st qtr was a great example.

BUT, if we can get a settled line up - especially need Rohan back - then we might cause a bit of trouble. I honestly think our oldest players can go another year (dunno about Bradshaw) but these young blokes are learning pretty quickly.

[Xie Shan]

While I am always happy to take the four points, I'm unconvinced that we are top four contenders. The closer we get to the Collingwood game in June, the more scared I am.

I actually started playing a little game for the past few weeks, it's called guess how much Collingwood would have beaten us by if they had played us this week. I think I'm going to have to stop though, it's too depressing

[Untamed Snark]

A lot of positives about that game, we played fairly consistently and the newbies are shaping up well, Jetta as the sub was a great move-he had the whole pub yelling once he came on
As has been the form our defenders where fantastic, Shaw was brilliant, Reg is back in form and Ted is just doing better and better.
LJ was ok, not brilliant but showed promise, I do like him as a forward.
All in all we won and we looked a different team from last week, now if only my heart rate would go down all would be good(es)

[wolftone57]

While I am always happy to take the four points, I'm unconvinced that we are top four contenders. The closer we get to the Collingwood game in June, the more scared I am.

Erica I am shaking in my boots about that game, we are not playing anywhere good enough to even worry the Pies let alone beat them, I might go on holiday the day we play the Pies, or just cry a lot, God I hate Collingwood!

[Big Al]

Does anybody think Firrito may have a case to answer for the elbow to Jetstar's jewels???

Pretty ordinary act, but it's the kind of stuff you'd expect from him.

Negligent Contact 1 point
Low Contact 1 point
Painful Contact to a Mans Tackle 400 points

= Life Suspension

[robamiee]

i think Collingwood are not the issue about where we are at...
The next 3 will be i think more about where we will be at...Lions, TIGERS, Blues....

[31 hard at it]

The best part of todays game was that the North fan beside me was groaning at their constant errors and Missed chances.
We were killed in the centre clearances with Searby not able to run out the game.
A fantastic effort from the backline in the last 5 minutes to hold Nth out as they kept coming.
The Jetta run (right in front of us) had to be seen to appreciate it. Class act not just the pace but then the poise to kick to advantage as well.
Should bring his confidence back and if thats how he plays then he must get a full game.

[Xie Shan]

i think Collingwood are not the issue about where we are at...
The next 3 will be i think more about where we will be at...Lions, TIGERS, Blues....

Favourites to beat the Lions,
50/50 against the Tigers,
No chance against the Blues,
Even less chance against the Magpies.

[Bas]

Negligent Contact 1 point
Low Contact 1 point
Painful Contact to a Mans Tackle 400 points

= Life Suspension

It's sometimes the little things in life that mean the most.

[erica]

We are definitely not top 4 erica with the amount of young/inexperienced players currently getting a game. Too inconsistent - 1st qtr was a great example.

BUT, if we can get a settled line up - especially need Rohan back - then we might cause a bit of trouble. I honestly think our oldest players can go another year (dunno about Bradshaw) but these young blokes are learning pretty quickly.

We finished fifth last year and I think we should be aiming to do better this year. Isn't it the point of playing to improve? That's why I'm disappointed so far - I can't see that we can end higher than last year if we can't put away teams like North.

[Bas]

We finished fifth last year and I think we should be aiming to do better this year. Isn't it the point of playing to improve? That's why I'm disappointed so far - I can't see that we can end higher than last year if we can't put away teams like North.

I think if we finish in the top 8 this year then we have done well. The most exciting part is watching the debutants this year. Say LJ @ FF and SR @ CHF after another year and more muscle on the both of them - very exciting.

I was going to say some Ladies are very hard to please but I was too polite. :)

[Big Al]

We finished fifth last year and I think we should be aiming to do better this year. Isn't it the point of playing to improve? That's why I'm disappointed so far - I can't see that we can end higher than last year if we can't put away teams like North.

Finishing 5th and then improving doesn't automatically mean you move up the ladder. You have other variables like the performance of the teams around you. It also depends on the evolution of your footy team as well. While we aren't playing well it's clear we are developing a team for future years by blooding so many youngsters early on. So i do share peoples frustration but when you look at the big picture I think the future is looking good.

[wolftone57]

i think Collingwood are not the issue about where we are at...
The next 3 will be i think more about where we will be at...Lions, TIGERS, Blues....

You are right there we have to take it a week at a time. Tigers & Blues are going to be hard. Generally a hard month coming up. I think the Lions are doable but they are always hard at the Gabba. I also think that if we use Shaw on Judd it would be a better match than Ryno (not fast enough for Judd) & Goodes on the ball we are in with a chance against the Blues

[erica]

Maybe I should give up living in the now a la Kirky and focus on the future. :) Anything is possible there!

[dimelb]

I thought we had a forward line today when Reid and Johnston lined up together with supports like McGlynn, Kennedy and Bolton. Johnston dropped a couple, but imo he got a big shove in the back more than once that wasn't paid. Goodes was patchy, loose and brilliant in turns, heavily (and sometimes illegally) marked. Shaw was magnificent, reducing Boomer's input to negligible; won us the match more than any other input. Seaby serviceable, but I really would rather see Pyke out there, with Mummy of course. The all-too-frequent slow start, but several players improved as the match went on: Hannebery, McVeigh, O'Keefe, Grundy come to mind.
We are a developing side, but there was some character today in the way they recovered from that awful start and the way they hung on in the last minutes. More work to do, but if we don't expect too much too soon, we can enjoy the ride. And it's good for the heart to get a workout like that now and again!

[Big Al]

I thought we had a forward line today when Reid and Johnston lined up together with supports like McGlynn, Kennedy and Bolton. Johnston dropped a couple, but imo he got a big shove in the back more than once that wasn't paid. Goodes was patchy, loose and brilliant in turns, heavily (and sometimes illegally) marked. Shaw was magnificent, reducing Boomer's input to negligible; won us the match more than any other input. Seaby serviceable, but I really would rather see Pyke out there, with Mummy of course. The all-too-frequent slow start, but several players improved as the match went on: Hannebery, McVeigh, O'Keefe, Grundy come to mind.
We are a developing side, but there was some character today in the way they recovered from that awful start and the way they hung on in the last minutes. More work to do, but if we don't expect too much too soon, we can enjoy the ride. And it's good for the heart to get a workout like that now and again!

Great post except for that last bit. ;)

[Bas]

Maybe I should give up living in the now a la Kirky and focus on the future. :) Anything is possible there!

Erica it's perfectly Ok to practise mindfullness but depends on what you are focusing on. In case of the Swans, I practise thenfullness instead.

Great to see some forward line up today.

I recorded the game on IQ as I had a pleasant afternoon soire with 10 Ladies today. So when I got home I must admit the nerves were given some help with the fast forward button.

I'm sure Big Al is wondering what I was up to.....................

[ShockOfHair]

It wasn't pretty but showed our young guys are learning how to scrap.

Loved Shaw's efforts on Harvey and Reg on Petrie. Bird's best game for the year, Melcho finding some form. I thought LJ's debut was pretty fair - kicked a beautiful goal from 50.

One of McVeigh's best games this year. Anyone else notice his fluffed kick was exactly the same mistake as in the trial game against Gold Coast? Both were costly turnovers.

The 2nd ruck situation still unresolved. Seabs and LRT got smacked 53-22 in HOs, took just 4 marks between them.

[Melbournehammer]

It was really pleasing to grab the win. That really was a game we needed to win if we are a chance to make the eight. Pre-season. Thought we were certainities to finish between 5 and 8 . I am much more doubtful now and think if we jag a result in the top eight we should be pleased.

Some key thoughts. I do think Jesse was unfairly maligned by the board and coaching staff. I am not privy to all of the directions he has been getting but I am sure that he is both a better second ruck than LRT and he does straighten us up better going forwards.

Lj (23) is a beautiful kick but he is in a difficult position. He is not quite quick enough to be a hff and he is not strong enough to be a kpp. Glad he got a run but I do think Jesse offers more at the moment and was harshly treated on the back of two really wet tracks.

Grundy clearly changed our defense from being too open to really reducing the effectiveness of Petrie (speaking of which how much better would we have been if Petrie was standing in our goal square).

Tadgh played loose in defence. I don't think we really got full value from that. He is struggling a little bit when trying to run away from defenders. I think he has to be more prepared on some occasions to kick it long down the line to a contest rather than the handball under pressure when he really is not getting the ball disposed to the teams advantage. When I think how Carlton did everything they could to keep him away from the ball last year and this year the Roos were prepared to let him have it is a bit concerning.

Goodes was awful. There is no other word for it. His hands were rock hard and he must have dropped half a dozen marks. But I don't think that was the worst aspect of his game. The worst aspect was that he spent a lot of the match running past the ball and neither taking man or ball. It was like he was unwilling to properly engage with what neded to be done by such a talented footballer. I can be quite critical of him but often it's a consequence of him not doing the easy things first and trying too much. Today there was a real absence of doing anything that park footballers are taught to do. I hope he has a close look at this game and gets back to what makes him so good - a real ball getter who does not run forward of the ball but gets and gives it.

Shaw was fantastic. His delivery was good and he kept their best midfielder largely out of the game.

Bolton was good.

Mcveigh is a great user of the ball but he needs to use it more and get his own ball a bit more. He is playing very wide and swinging behind the ball winner too often. His non-decision in the last could have been really costly. He did his job to take on his man but then failed to actually shoot.

Reid is a great lead and times his lead really well. He needs to develop his kicking obviously.

Overall it was a poor performance in that we were clearly the better team for three-quarters of the game but simply were unable to go on with the game. I think north are a bottom four side - not because they don't give it a go but because they lack enough depth. They really do try hard but a score similar to last hears 30 point win would have been a more accurate reflection of the difference in teams but the one point win showed the flaws in the team. There'd are positives but we are a long way from where we were last night.
Alex j really impressed me. I thought he was calm on the ball contested well and was not beaten easily.

[Melbournehammer]

And one other thing. The north crowd's attitude towards lachie Hansen was nothing short of disgraceful. There were some "supporters" sitting in front of me who wre obnoxious generally but were beyond the pale with their criticism of one of their own. If I was him I'd tell the club to shove it

[Goal Sneak]

Goodes was awful. There is no other word for it. His hands were rock hard and he must have dropped half a dozen marks. But I don't think that was the worst aspect of his game. The worst aspect was that he spent a lot of the match running past the ball and neither taking man or ball. It was like he was unwilling to properly engage with what neded to be done by such a talented footballer. I can be quite critical of him but often it's a consequence of him not doing the easy things first and trying too much.

Don't get me wrong, Goodes is a superstar player. I beleive the worst aspect of his game is that he is a whinger. It's something that has bothered me a little in the past, but since he has become a captain it bothers me much more. He is constantly looking for free kicks with arms up and a sooky face. I think a good captain (and player for that matter) plays the game without counting on the umpires to get it right. You just have to go as hard as you can, and if you get a free, great. If not, then just get on with it.

I truly believe the umps would be more inclined to give him a free if he just stopped trying to tell them when he deserves one. it's not a good look for a captain and shows the opposition that you are frustrated.

[Captain]

Just got back from the game and agree with pretty much everything youv'e said but not sure on Mcveigh,at least 2 or 3 unpressured skill errors from him in the first half 2 of which resulted in goals,easily the best game ive seen Bird play,and while ive knocked Tadgh a bit this year and still am not sure on him his game today was easily his best since coming back last year,biggest issue is everytime he's just put in a run or big effort the next 2 or so minutes is spent with hands on hips walking no matter whats going on around him,great turn around after the first blitz by north and grundy and ted swapping positions early was a big difference.

That's one long sentence!

[ScottH]

Don't get me wrong, Goodes is a superstar player. I beleive the worst aspect of his game is that he is a whinger. It's something that has bothered me a little in the past, but since he has become a captain it bothers me much more. He is constantly looking for free kicks with arms up and a sooky face. I think a good captain (and player for that matter) plays the game without counting on the umpires to get it right. You just have to go as hard as you can, and if you get a free, great. If not, then just get on with it.

I truly believe the umps would be more inclined to give him a free if he just stopped trying to tell them when he deserves one. it's not a good look for a captain and shows the opposition that you are frustrated.

+1 from me.
Stayed off too many tackles today, too. Needs to work on his defense.

[rb4x]

Jesse was injured in the 2's today but apparently Currie played extremely strongly. Ruck situation after Jesse's injury was so dire that Nipper was used as relief ruck. Would seem Currie is our only other ruck option until either mummy or Pyke are back. We got thrashed in the clearances in the last quarter when Seaby was stuffed and LRT absolutely useless in the ruck. If we had controlled the ruck we would have had time to open the game up and get some run. As it was we had to scrap extremely hard to survive something we seem to be accustomed to. We need two decent ruckmen so fingers crossed that mummy returns next week and we retain Seaby to give us a chance of first use of the ball. If mummy is not back the only option is Currie as LRT proved again he is not the answer. Another lazy six goals to TDL today so he should come in to give us a forward target. Outs on todays showing Parker and LRT. Oh and LJ to give some goalkicking lessons to our juniors Goodes, ROK and McVeigh. His goal was something really special.

[wolftone57]

Don't get me wrong, Goodes is a superstar player. I beleive the worst aspect of his game is that he is a whinger. It's something that has bothered me a little in the past, but since he has become a captain it bothers me much more. He is constantly looking for free kicks with arms up and a sooky face. I think a good captain (and player for that matter) plays the game without counting on the umpires to get it right. You just have to go as hard as you can, and if you get a free, great. If not, then just get on with it.

I truly believe the umps would be more inclined to give him a free if he just stopped trying to tell them when he deserves one. it's not a good look for a captain and shows the opposition that you are frustrated.

Goodsie was always looking for the easy kick today & he has games when he does that & I think it is an attitude problem that affects his teammates. I also think he is better playing on ball & resting in the forward line than as a key position player. We have to get the on ball brigade right ASAP as we were getting killed in the clearances today.

[wolftone57]

Jesse was injured in the 2's today but apparently Currie played extremely strongly. Ruck situation after Jesse's injury was so dire that Nipper was used as relief ruck. Would seem Currie is our only other ruck option until either mummy or Pyke are back. We got thrashed in the clearances in the last quarter when Seaby was stuffed and LRT absolutely useless in the ruck. If we had controlled the ruck we would have had time to open the game up and get some run. As it was we had to scrap extremely hard to survive something we seem to be accustomed to. We need two decent ruckmen so fingers crossed that mummy returns next week and we retain Seaby to give us a chance of first use of the ball. If mummy is not back the only option is Currie as LRT proved again he is not the answer. Another lazy six goals to TDL today so he should come in to give us a forward target. Outs on todays showing Parker and LRT. Oh and LJ to give some goalkicking lessons to our juniors Goodes, ROK and McVeigh. His goal was something really special.

i agree with everything except for Parker going out, it is his first full game & I think he was OK but you have to realise the 2's here is a lot slower than the 2's in Melb & about 1/2 pace to Seniors. I think the kid is a talent. LJ's goal was exceptional! I think even though Mummy comes back Seaby's performance was not good enough, 22 H/O's & 4 marks to 53 H/O's 8 marks & he should drop down & give Currie a go. Danny boy is not backward in throwing his weight around & he is pretty handy in front of the sticks unlike Seaby.

[DeadlyAkkuret]

Favourites to beat the Lions,
50/50 against the Tigers,
No chance against the Blues,
Even less chance against the Magpies.

The Blues are by no means a certainty to beat us. We were right in the game against them until Jack got injured, so if he plays and keeps Judd relatively quiet we're a decent chance.

We must beat the Lions and Tigers.

[Captain]

i agree with everything except for Parker going out, it is his first full game & I think he was OK but you have to realise the 2's here is a lot slower than the 2's in Melb & about 1/2 pace to Seniors. I think the kid is a talent. LJ's goal was exceptional! I think even though Mummy comes back Seaby's performance was not good enough, 22 H/O's & 4 marks to 53 H/O's 8 marks & he should drop down & give Currie a go. Danny boy is not backward in throwing his weight around & he is pretty handy in front of the sticks unlike Seaby.

Parker does have talent, but dropping him for a Jack would make sense. Won't hurt the boy to learn his craft in the reserves after getting a taste of the seniors. Just like Nipper.

TDL MUST come in. It's almost tear up memberships time if he doesn't ;)

[Triple B]

..Danny boy is not backward in throwing his weight around.....

That's twice you've trotted that line out and I couldn't disagree more.

I just don't know where you get that impression from. I find it hard to believe you've gained it from watching him in the2's...

[stellation]

Does anybody think Firrito may have a case to answer for the elbow to Jetstar's jewels???

Pretty ordinary act, but it's the kind of stuff you'd expect from him.

I think he was just throwing back an elbow, I don't think he really took aim.

[ernie koala]

I thought the positives today were:
1) Shaws tagging role on Harvey was excellent, and even his field kicking was good today.
2) Alex Johnson continues to impress me, yet another solid game showed good decision making and aggression at the contest. Looks an outstanding prospect.
3) Parker finally given a run and showed plenty. 13 odd touches in 3 quarters.
4) MGlynn is an extremely consistent performer, just love the way he goes about it.
5) Finally playing a sub who's got something to add with his pace, and a willingness to take the game on...which a first gamer will rarely have.
6) Kennelly played his best game for some time, looked like the tige of old.

[aardvark]

We had 4 hit outs to advantage for the game, which is why Pyke plays ahead of Seaby. Hurry back Mike.

[Cpt. Kirk]

We had 4 hit outs to advantage for the game, which is why Pyke plays ahead of Seaby. Hurry back Mike.

Agreed Pyke is never gonna be as good as the top line ruck man of the competition but continue to give him games and he will become a very valuable player.

[top40]

The Blues are by no means a certainty to beat us. We were right in the game against them until Jack got injured, so if he plays and keeps Judd relatively quiet we're a decent chance.

We must beat the Lions and Tigers.

I believe that if Jack had not gone down on that Royal Wedding night, it wouldn't have been a case of something Blue. With Kieron back I give the Swans about $2.85 to beat Carlton.

On the other hand, with Collingwood, Sydney has as much chance of winning that game as the Suns have to win the 2011 Flag.

Totally agree that the next two games against the Lions and the Tigers are vital. Interestingly, Richmond when they come on the paddock at the SCG will be coming off their very first bye for the season..

[magic.merkin]

Don't get me wrong, Goodes is a superstar player. I beleive the worst aspect of his game is that he is a whinger. It's something that has bothered me a little in the past, but since he has become a captain it bothers me much more. He is constantly looking for free kicks with arms up and a sooky face. I think a good captain (and player for that matter) plays the game without counting on the umpires to get it right. You just have to go as hard as you can, and if you get a free, great. If not, then just get on with it.

I truly believe the umps would be more inclined to give him a free if he just stopped trying to tell them when he deserves one. it's not a good look for a captain and shows the opposition that you are frustrated.

I agree, it's embarrassing.

[ernie koala]

Don't get me wrong, Goodes is a superstar player. I beleive the worst aspect of his game is that he is a whinger. It's something that has bothered me a little in the past, but since he has become a captain it bothers me much more. He is constantly looking for free kicks with arms up and a sooky face. I think a good captain (and player for that matter) plays the game without counting on the umpires to get it right. You just have to go as hard as you can, and if you get a free, great. If not, then just get on with it.

I truly believe the umps would be more inclined to give him a free if he just stopped trying to tell them when he deserves one. it's not a good look for a captain and shows the opposition that you are frustrated.

Agree with this, his preoccupation with umpiring decisions is happening way too often to the point of being cringworthy. He's got rise above it. Between him and McVeigh the on field body language is not nearly good enough from our 2 leaders.

[dimelb]

Agreed Pyke is never gonna be as good as the top line ruck man of the competition but continue to give him games and he will become a very valuable player.
I admit I'm a pretty bigoted Mike supporter but I rate him, strictly as a ruckman, as in the next best batch after Sandilands, along with Cox and Jamar. And around the ground he just keeps getting better. I really want to see him back asap.

[Dosser]

Whatever happened to the Seaby that was so on fire before he did his foot last year? He could ruck, mark and kick with the best of them, so it IS possible with him. I just want him back :(

[aardvark]

Whatever happened to the Seaby that was so on fire before he did his foot last year? He could ruck, mark and kick with the best of them, so it IS possible with him. I just want him back :(

Seaby was absolutely stuffed after 3/4 time. Just goes to show how much pressure was on Mummy.

[Robbo]

We had 4 hit outs to advantage for the game, which is why Pyke plays ahead of Seaby. Hurry back Mike.

How about work around the ground. Seaby is a hell of a lot better than Pyke in every area.

It was Seaby's first game of senior footy for over 12 months, cut him some slack. Will be better for the run and once he gets back to full fitness he is a very valuable player. Remember round 2 last year against Adelaide? Seaby dominated the game. Pyke isn't capable of that sort of performance.

[Peace]

Yet...

[Big Al]

How about work around the ground. Seaby is a hell of a lot better than Pyke in every area.

It was Seaby's first game of senior footy for over 12 months, cut him some slack. Will be better for the run and once he gets back to full fitness he is a very valuable player. Remember round 2 last year against Adelaide? Seaby dominated the game. Pyke isn't capable of that sort of performance.

Seaby hasn't dominated in the reserves games I've seen. Pyke has been the better performed ruckman both with tap work and around the ground than Seaby this year.

[aardvark]

Seaby hasn't dominated in the reserves games I've seen. Pyke has been the better performed ruckman both with tap work and around the ground than Seaby this year.

Which is why he gets picked ahead of Seaby. However if Pyke is fit i'd like to see them both play against the lions

[dimelb]

Which is why he gets picked ahead of Seaby. However if Pyke is fit i'd like to see them both play against the lions
Me too. Our P/T ruckman approach isn't working very well.

[nomae]

Don't get me wrong, Goodes is a superstar player. I beleive the worst aspect of his game is that he is a whinger. It's something that has bothered me a little in the past, but since he has become a captain it bothers me much more. He is constantly looking for free kicks with arms up and a sooky face. I think a good captain (and player for that matter) plays the game without counting on the umpires to get it right. You just have to go as hard as you can, and if you get a free, great. If not, then just get on with it.

I truly believe the umps would be more inclined to give him a free if he just stopped trying to tell them when he deserves one. it's not a good look for a captain and shows the opposition that you are frustrated.

Could not agree more. Wonder sometimes as to whether he even should be captain.

p.s. Grundy was best afield.

[Nico]

We had 4 hit outs to advantage for the game, which is why Pyke plays ahead of Seaby. Hurry back Mike.

They are hitouts to advantage only if the other players gain possession. That was as bad as it gets on centre clearances as I have seen and I thought last week was the worst. That is 2 weeks in a row where sides have done 2 bursts of multiple goal scoring from centre clearances. Our mids were non competetive at centre bounces all day and when we got the odd clearance it was scrappy and sideways. Opposition sides must just chuckle to themselves when assessing an upcoming game against us knowing that this is one area they know they will do us like a dinner.

One of my sons mates who is a North supporter who came with us yesterday. On the way in I was discussing centre clearances with him. After I said we were crap in that area he said it looks like a nil all draw. In the last quarter he looked at me and said after another centre clearance goal to North; " I see what you mean, you guys are as bad as it gets".

I don't get why people say to drop LRT. He is a backman, not a ruckman. He had 3 hitouts for the game and that says it all, and he was played forward a lot. To me this is coaching at it's worst. If a ruckman goes down during a game and you have no option, then sure put someone like him on the ball, but right now they are robbing Peter to pay Paul. Put him at full back where he belongs and we will get far more value from him.

On Parker; I thought he did quite well. He found the footy and worked hard and I would rather they continue to play him because he has the goods and will only improve, and I think rather quickly.

[Nico]

I watched McVeigh a little closer today and could definitely see some good leadership signs from him.

I agree on Reg and Smith. Interesting remark by one of the commentators that Teddy looked a little nervous. He was playing behind a fair bit. That last line of defence must be an awful place to play in though.

Except when McVeigh did his cute little shimmy and stuffed it up in the last quarter (remember the GC NAB Cup loss) he seemed to blame everyone else but himself. I also enjoyed his out on the full in the last quarter. I could just see the RWOers and Big Footy bods saying; "McHack, Hack, Hack, Hack.

[Melbournehammer]

I simply dont agree that it is robbing peter to pay paul. Foir that to be the case he must be better than one of our existing defenders. I think the swans were correctly assessing that in our tall defenders it is grundy 1, ted and lrt eq 2. You would be hard pressed to say that Ted has been anything other than good this year. sure he was beaten in the first fifteen minutes yesterday but after that was good. It is much harder to play as a resting ruckman as a defender. You must follow your man and if they are smart the forward runs you around so there is no rest. As a resting forward you can actually sit in the goal square and not move unless you absolutely need to.

LRT can compete forward of the centre. He is not a natural forward but must replace one of the other two to get a run as a defender. Or we find a team with three quality forwards (west coast and perhaps essendon spring to mind - and I might also play him on Kreuzer if he gets into the ones when we play Carlton). The reality is that it is white, pyke or lrt who can play forward and swing onto the ball as a ruck - neither ted nor grundy can do that.

Perhaps if we play two quality rucks then we might have more of a chance there but that really does rob peter - you are taking a more mobile player who can swing backwards or forwards and replace them with a one-dimensional player.

fwiw I think seaby did fine. he competed well around the ground. took a good mark and goaled from it was completely spent shortly after 3/4 time (watching him struggle to run off was amazing) and his opponent hardly dominated.

Looking forwards brisbane belted adelaide and we will have to make an assessment as to the best structure for that match - but i'd find it hard to leave seaby out, but if mummy is available I'd be playing mummy and LRT given the injury to white. I am still in the camp that we probably had our best side in the initial rounds with white and mummy as the duo in ruck. as with all these things getting the balance right is difficult. And I thought Parker played well. I reckon he looks like a real find. I hope it gives lamb real hope that there is a spot there and if he playes well he will be selected.

[aardvark]

fwiw I think seaby did fine. he competed well around the ground. took a good mark and goaled from it was completely spent shortly after 3/4 time (watching him struggle to run off was amazing) and his opponent hardly dominated. .

Goldy had over 50 hitouts. I'm glad he didn't dominate.......

[wolftone57]

They are hitouts to advantage only if the other players gain possession. That was as bad as it gets on centre clearances as I have seen and I thought last week was the worst. That is 2 weeks in a row where sides have done 2 bursts of multiple goal scoring from centre clearances. Our mids were non competetive at centre bounces all day and when we got the odd clearance it was scrappy and sideways. Opposition sides must just chuckle to themselves when assessing an upcoming game against us knowing that this is one area they know they will do us like a dinner.

One of my sons mates who is a North supporter who came with us yesterday. On the way in I was discussing centre clearances with him. After I said we were crap in that area he said it looks like a nil all draw. In the last quarter he looked at me and said after another centre clearance goal to North; " I see what you mean, you guys are as bad as it gets".

I don't get why people say to drop LRT. He is a backman, not a ruckman. He had 3 hitouts for the game and that says it all, and he was played forward a lot. To me this is coaching at it's worst. If a ruckman goes down during a game and you have no option, then sure put someone like him on the ball, but right now they are robbing Peter to pay Paul. Put him at full back where he belongs and we will get far more value from him.

On Parker; I thought he did quite well. He found the footy and worked hard and I would rather they continue to play him because he has the goods and will only improve, and I think rather quickly.

I agree with you Nico, LRT down back where he belongs, Teddy is starting to doubt himself again it is time for a rest in the 2's. Teddy has been very good since a rest in the 2's last year & it doesn't hurt to remind them or put them back to get confidence. Parker has to be perservered with as he has the talent & is reasonably solid, he reminds me of Barry Mitchel. I also agree on the coaching but I think Currie should come in as he is ready & he knows how to throw his weight around to protect his small players. We don't want to lose this kid I think he has ability if not consistency (better this year by all reports) & sometimes that comes with maturity.

[Nico]

A few more observations.

Kennedy is struggling. Malceski only played 78% and after the first quarter blinder seemed to struggle a bit. Maybe his value short term would be as the sub.
Smith's last quarter was special. He got a fingernail into contests a number of times that saved our bacon when North looked to be running away with the footy. He reads the play as well as anyone.
Someone on here has made the point a few times on ROK that he is wasteful. Sure was right this week. 58% effective and kicked a lot around the corner.
We clearly have a strategy to kick to the HFF flank or forward pocket to leads. We still did it in the last quarter when we were behind. Defenders easily pick off or knock the the ball away. Very frustrating and shows we don't have the guts to play the corridor when going forward lest it gets stripped away for a foray upfield. Even when we get the rare clean, centre clearance we seem to go sideways.
Parker goes alright as does Johnson and Reid, and leave LJ there up forward with Reid but don't play Reid so far up the ground.
Why don't they play McGlynn at centre bounces? He thinks and plays quickly which is what we lack. Probably not defensive enough is his problem.
Kennelly kept us in the game in the second quarter. Love his game style.
Our ball use is poor and insist on short field kicking.
What about Boltons shocking call to LJ in the last quarter when he led to a spot in the middle of a North Melbourne triangle of players. Was always going to come unstuck.
Overall it smacked of a game between to ordinary sides.

[Nico]

I agree with you Nico, LRT down back where he belongs, Teddy is starting to doubt himself again it is time for a rest in the 2's. Teddy has been very good since a rest in the 2's last year & it doesn't hurt to remind them or put them back to get confidence. Parker has to be perservered with as he has the talent & is reasonably solid, he reminds me of Barry Mitchel. I also agree on the coaching but I think Currie should come in as he is ready & he knows how to throw his weight around to protect his small players. We don't want to lose this kid I think he has ability if not consistency (better this year by all reports) & sometimes that comes with maturity.

I would rather see Ted used as a ruckman on the odd occasion and if goes forward we know he can take a mark and lead whereas LRT has always been a backman. I think maybe clubs are making Ted a bit more accountable but he has been good and LRT back there again takes pressure off him. I think Parker is more of a quick version of Sam Mitchell.

[swansrule100]

i wonder if ted was told to play petrie from behind yesterday or it was his own tactic?, ted shouldnt be asked to play on someone that big and strong anyway. Lrt ted and grundy should all be in defence, someone else can chip in as 2nd ruck, seaby/pyke stay as the forward ruck when mummy returns or perhaps lets see what currie can do given hes 22 now and been on the list since we relocated to sydney

[Melbournehammer]

Goldy had over 50 hitouts. I'm glad he didn't dominate.......

50 hit outs - wow amazing. (irony)

and goldy kicked how many goals, took how many marks, did so much link up.

dont get me wrong - north scored 4 goals from stoppages - 4 of 9 is 45% but 4 of 50 is 8%. The reality is that he won taps but thats about it - and the taps were helpful to north but didn't really make that much difference.

I simply dont think hitting the ball 50 times means all that much. it might have if the ball went straight down someones throat and went racing down towards goal. but it simply didnt. and around the ground seaby took some important marks and his opponent didnt.

he won a few taps. that is not dominating.

[Melbourne_Blood]

Who would you move out of our defence to put LRT in there ? Surely none of Reg, Ted or AJ ( who was good, again). If its none of those players, then we'd be going in quite tall in defence, and lacking the run of a rebounder who's spot LRT would need to take to fit into the backline. When Mummy returns, perhaps there' wont be a spot for him at all unless one of our regular big backs gets hurt. ?

[Melbournehammer]

[QUOTE=Nico;530629]A few more observations.

Kennedy is struggling.

I wondered about that as well. he played a fair bit of the game at full forward i presume with a view to breaking tags and stuff but he did seem a very long way from the action.

[liz]

I'm shaking my head at the suggestion that Ted should be dropped. He was the wrong match-up for Petrie, and it came at a time when our midfield couldn't get their hands on the ball and North were kicking well to a lead up target. Once he was switched off Petrie he was a solid contributor in defence. He certainly didn't drop his head after that first 10 minutes.

I think our defence would be better for having LRT there. He has the advantage of an extra inch or so over most of our other defenders, which is significant against forward/ruck types. It does create a problem in that all our tall defenders are in decent form. I was very impressed with AJ again yesterday. Maybe we can organise a mid-season loan to the Dawks. They can have one of our tall defenders and we'll take Buddy!

[Robbo]

Yet...

He will never be more than a decent backup ruckman. He is 27 and although his tap work is good he still lacks natural football instinct, and his disposal is below average for a ruckman. It's hard to become a quality AFL player if you don't play a single game of Aussie rules footy until you are 25.

[Scottee]

I'm shaking my head at the suggestion that Ted should be dropped. He was the wrong match-up for Petrie, and it came at a time when our midfield couldn't get their hands on the ball and North were kicking well to a lead up target. Once he was switched off Petrie he was a solid contributor in defence. He certainly didn't drop his head after that first 10 minutes.

I think our defence would be better for having LRT there. He has the advantage of an extra inch or so over most of our other defenders, which is significant against forward/ruck types. It does create a problem in that all our tall defenders are in decent form.

Agree Liz. It should be pretty clear by now that Grundy is best against larger, slower opponents who rely on their marking (even if they are a lot taller) he is simply gifted at reading the flight of the ball and jostling at the same time with his 102Kg.He is not so great agianst the more nimbe fowards but we now also hve Johnston to take on these guys. Grundy made a great combo with LRT down back last year until LRT was injured. With LRT back we could use Ted's ability around the ground or up forward where we are taking vey few marks.

[wolftone57]

I would rather see Ted used as a ruckman on the odd occasion and if goes forward we know he can take a mark and lead whereas LRT has always been a backman. I think maybe clubs are making Ted a bit more accountable but he has been good and LRT back there again takes pressure off him. I think Parker is more of a quick version of Sam Mitchell.

Teddy has rucked in the past but I would prefer to have a specialist ruckman. I don't know what all this robbing Peter to pay Paul is all about at one stage we only had 2 reserves & then 3 before we got 4 & we still managed to play 2 rucks. I like Currie as an option because he can go forward, either centre Half or FF & he knows how to find a goal. Let's face it LRT has never been much in front of the big sticks, his Career Goal Tally 16 ( they don't list the points but they would definitely outdo them). Parker looks like Shane Woewoden but plays like Barry Mitchell, Sammy Mitchell is more in & under. How about this for a team just for fun;

B: Alex Johnson Reg Grundy Byron Sumner

HB: Marty Mattner Campbell Heath Nick Malceski

c: Lewis Jetta Josh Kennedy Dan Hannaberry

HF: Adam Goodes Lewis Johnston Trent Dennis-Lane

F: Bennt McGlinn Sam Reid Dan Currie

Foll: Shane Mumford Nick Smith Kieran Jack

Res: Craig Bird, Luke parker, Jed Jamb, Gary Rohan

Em: Dillon McNeil, Kane Murphy, Paul Bevan, Merridith, White & Everritt

[wolftone57]

By the way Mattner & Goodes would not be there in 3 years.

[wolftone57]

50 hit outs - wow amazing. (irony)

and goldy kicked how many goals, took how many marks, did so much link up.

dont get me wrong - north scored 4 goals from stoppages - 4 of 9 is 45% but 4 of 50 is 8%. The reality is that he won taps but thats about it - and the taps were helpful to north but didn't really make that much difference.

I simply dont think hitting the ball 50 times means all that much. it might have if the ball went straight down someones throat and went racing down towards goal. but it simply didnt. and around the ground seaby took some important marks and his opponent didnt.

he won a few taps. that is not dominating.

Hammer get real, they killed us in the clearances, they almost doubled our inside 50's which was due chiefly to winning the ruck contests. He also took the same amount of marks as our two rucks put together. We missed Mummy & Seabs is no replacement. I still think we need to start blooding Dan Currie. Seaby took 4 marks for the game our big men need to do batter then that after all that is one of the things they are there for.

[Untamed Snark]

I agree with you Nico, LRT down back where he belongs, Teddy is starting to doubt himself again it is time for a rest in the 2's. Teddy has been very good since a rest in the 2's last year & it doesn't hurt to remind them or put them back to get confidence. Parker has to be perservered with as he has the talent & is reasonably solid, he reminds me of Barry Mitchel. I also agree on the coaching but I think Currie should come in as he is ready & he knows how to throw his weight around to protect his small players. We don't want to lose this kid I think he has ability if not consistency (better this year by all reports) & sometimes that comes with maturity.

You are kidding right? A moment of uncertainty and you have him in the reserves?

[BSA5]

50 hit outs - wow amazing. (irony)

and goldy kicked how many goals, took how many marks, did so much link up.

dont get me wrong - north scored 4 goals from stoppages - 4 of 9 is 45% but 4 of 50 is 8%. The reality is that he won taps but thats about it - and the taps were helpful to north but didn't really make that much difference.

I simply dont think hitting the ball 50 times means all that much. it might have if the ball went straight down someones throat and went racing down towards goal. but it simply didnt. and around the ground seaby took some important marks and his opponent didnt.

he won a few taps. that is not dominating.

Take a look at the effective hitout stats as well. And clearances. And inside 50s.

Goldstein well and truly dominated Seaby. To think otherwise is bizarre.

[aardvark]

. and around the ground seaby took some important marks and his opponent didnt.

I'm sure all 3 of them were very important ....as were his 5 possessions. If he could still raise a trot after 3/4 time he may even have got a couple more.

[wolftone57]

You are kidding right? A moment of uncertainty and you have him in the reserves?

Some players are confidence players & if they start to doubt themselves it only gets worse. To go back & get a few wins would do the confidence a lot of good. This is the second week running he has been smashed by an opponent, time to get him some confidence & then bring him back. I am not saying he is playing very badly but history teaches us lessons & at the start of last year Teddy's confidence was shot & it could happen again if he gets the wrong match up all the time. By the way I blame Longmire for that, he should never have matched him to Petrie in the first place. It doesn't take much to shatter confidence & getting monsters you have no hope of beating every week is one way to do it. He plays well on the second or third stringer medium to tall not on MONSTERS!

[giant]

+1 from me.
Stayed off too many tackles today, too. Needs to work on his defense.

Both the Thompson goals, Goodes effort was very weak indeed. Need to tell him to have the week off training and find his mojo again.

[giant]

Agree Liz. It should be pretty clear by now that Grundy is best against larger, slower opponents who rely on their marking (even if they are a lot taller) he is simply gifted at reading the flight of the ball and jostling at the same time with his 102Kg.He is not so great agianst the more nimbe fowards but we now also hve Johnston to take on these guys. Grundy made a great combo with LRT down back last year until LRT was injured. With LRT back we could use Ted's ability around the ground or up forward where we are taking vey few marks.

If it's obvious to us, why do the coaching staff keep getting the wrong match up? Two weeks in a row they've got it horribly wrong.

[ScottH]

Both the Thompson goals, Goodes effort was very weak indeed. Need to tell him to have the week off training and find his mojo again.

The baffling bit with his second goal, both Goodes and Hanners went to his right side, Thompson turned left and they both missed him.