2014 Game Day Round 16 - Geelong V Western Bulldogs

[Eastdog]

Dogs by 8 points
First Goal: Redpath
Best On Ground: Picken

[Bulldog4life]

Dogs by2 points
First Goal: Hunter
Best On Ground: Boyd

[boydogs]

Geelong by 25
First goal Crameri
BOG Griffen

[LostDoggy]

Geelong by 22pts
First goal Hrovat
BOG Libba

[Twodogs]

Geelong by 4
First Goal: Redpath
BOG: Griff

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Geelong by 43 points
First goal: Hunter
BOG: Boyd

[LostDoggy]

Geelong with 2 emergencies not playing in the VFL. I'd expect Selwood or Stevie J to miss. Which will be handy...

[F'scary]

It should not be that hard to put away a bunch of bong-ridden Surf Coast based players.

Western by 11 points
First Goal: Fat Boy Crameri
BOG: Bon Jovi.

[LostDoggy]

Macrae sub.. wow!

[lemmon]

Must be worried about his workload

[G-Mo77]

Must be worried about his workload

Well rest him then.

Don't see the point in making him sub, we lack classy midfielders so we sub one our best.

[bulldogtragic]

I'm banned from talking about the sub, but I'm confused one our top disposal getters this year won't probably get any possessions for 3 quarters.

[G-Mo77]

I'm banned from talking about the sub, but I'm confused one our top disposal getters this year won't probably get any possessions for 3 quarters.

It's an argument for having Gia in there. :)

Seriously these kind of decisions are baffling. Who makes these decisions?

[lemmon]

Well rest him then.

Don't see the point in making him sub, we lack classy midfielders so we sub one our best.
I didn't say I agreed with the decision, that's what the thinking would be though

[G-Mo77]

I didn't say I agreed with the decision, that's what the thinking would be though

Yeah I wasn't taking a shot at you lemmon.

My facepalm should be on auto pilot by now.

477

[F'scary]

Are you guys sure about this?

[bulldogtragic]

It's an argument for having Gia in there. :)

Seriously these kind of decisions are baffling. Who makes these decisions?

I can only imagine it's Macca. It's about a match day tactic, so it must be Macca's call I would think. Someone needs to be the sub, but Jack wouldn't be my pick today.

[Eastdog]

Macrae sub.. wow!

When do you think will bring him on Jaytee.

[jeemak]

If they think he needs a lightened load then playing him as the sub is a good idea.

Don't understand the outrage.

[kruder]

If they think he needs a lightened load then playing him as the sub is a good idea.

Don't understand the outrage.

Has been looking tired in the first quarter over the last few weeks...

[The Underdog]

Has been looking tired in the first quarter over the last few weeks...

Agree. I was half expecting him to be an out this week. Hopefully we're in a position for him to have an impact late on.

Cars by 46
BOG - Libba
First Goal - Redpath

[kruder]

So negative... Has been running up and down on the same spot for a few weeks now. I would have rested him but I'm sure only playing one quarter for an AFL player would feel like a rest.

[kruder]

I'm banned from talking about the sub, but I'm confused one our top disposal getters this year won't probably get any possessions for 3 quarters.

So negative... Has been running up and down on the same spot for a few weeks now. I would have rested him but I'm sure only playing one quarter for an AFL player would feel like a rest. Has nothing to do with tactics just another chance for you to pot the coach.

[boydogs]

Jed Bews late in for James Kelly
Brad Hartman (who?) late in for Dawson Simpson & starting as the sub

No late changes for us, Macrae sub

[boydogs]

Brad Hartman 188cm 86kg forward, pick 77 in 2012. 2nd game, debuted v St Kilda in round 13 in defence

Geelong going with McIntosh & Blicavs as rucks

[bulldogtragic]

So negative... Has been running up and down on the same spot for a few weeks now. I would have rested him but I'm sure only playing one quarter for an AFL player would feel like a rest. Has nothing to do with tactics just another chance for you to pot the coach.

Pull your head in. If I want to slam or 'pot' McCartney I will do it, being that I don't and won't it's a moot point. You have an opinion, others have an opinion. I wouldn't sub Jack, it's not a pot. You want to sub Jack, it's not a pot. For the record, the sub is all about tactics and strategy. I'm not potting anyone. This is garbage that any thought or opinion which doesn't comply with the moral police is met with allegations of underhanded negativity and verbal assault on the coach. This is rubbish.

[bornadog]

Pull your head in. If I want to slam or 'pot' McCartney I will do it, being that I don't and won't it's a moot point. You have an opinion, others have an opinion. I wouldn't sub Jack, it's not a pot. You want to sub Jack, it's not a pot. For the record, the sub is all about tactics and strategy. I'm not potting anyone. This is garbage that any thought or opinion which doesn't comply with the moral police is met with allegations of underhanded negativity and verbal assault on the coach. This is rubbish.

So negative BT :D

On serious note, I would have rested him and brought in either Campbell or Cordy. Minson is the one needing some help. Unless the coach feels, Macrae is needed in case Griffen can't play out the game.

[Eastdog]

Not too good there from Austin pretty much giving Geelong their first.

[GVGjr]

Who would have thought that the sub would be the most discussed position on the ground? At least when it's Gia we have probably talked that through enough by now

[Eastdog]

Who would have thought that the sub would be the most discussed position on the ground? At least when it's Gia we have probably talked that through enough by now

Do you think the sub - Macrae was a good decision or is it better we give him as much game time in his early career.

[F'scary]

Radio Commentator: "Boyd 5 disposals at 33% efficiency." So, only 1.65 of his disposals have been efficient? Got to love footy stats.

[Go_Dogs]

Wallis was robbed.

Not a great start, need to be cleaner with our ball use going forwards.

[F'scary]

Sub Austin NOW!!!

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Unbelievable over rule from the goal review.
Given Geelong were all over us it would've been a big boost for us to go in only a goal and change behind.

[G-Mo77]

Utter rubbish. Wallis robbed of a goal but still rubbish.

[boydogs]

Need to make the most of our chances, only 10 scoring shots for both teams combined in the first quarter says we won't get many of them.

Wallis need to stop practicing his kicking with Boyd

[AndrewP6]

That score review system is completely ridiculous. They might as well get rid of the goal umps altogether. "Goal umpire has called it a goal, just want to check"???? Completely undermines the ump whose entire role is to adjudicate these matters.

[kruder]

Pull your head in. If I want to slam or 'pot' McCartney I will do it, being that I don't and won't it's a moot point. You have an opinion, others have an opinion. I wouldn't sub Jack, it's not a pot. You want to sub Jack, it's not a pot. For the record, the sub is all about tactics and strategy. I'm not potting anyone. This is garbage that any thought or opinion which doesn't comply with the moral police is met with allegations of underhanded negativity and verbal assault on the coach. This is rubbish.

Excuse me? My head? You have been an absolute old women on this blog this year...

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

The indiscriminate rushed kick from a contest is killing us and plays straight into Geelong's hands. Unless we improve our ball use we are going to be on the end of the mother of all hidings

[ReLoad]

The rushed put it on your boot stuff is crap, Taylor and enright having a party.......

[Bulldog4life]

That score review system is completely ridiculous. They might as well get rid of the goal umps altogether. "Goal umpire has called it a goal, just want to check"???? Completely undermines the ump whose entire role is to adjudicate these matters.

Yes. If you haven't got the correct technology to determine whether a ball was touched or not it should be scrapped until you have. Robbed of a goal.

[bulldogtragic]

Excuse me? My head? You have been an absolute old women on this blog this year...

There's a close game of footy on mate and your interested in going me over 'negative' comments I didn't make. Watch the game.

[Go_Dogs]

That was very ordinary.

Need the next goal badly.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Against quality sides we just have no composure and our lack of skill is magnified.

[boydogs]

Needed a goal out of that attack. Dahlhaus in space with multiple options. Bonts did well to mark it but needed to convert

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Murph...murph...murph. why?

[G-Mo77]

You're goal Bob.

[boydogs]

1.6...

[GVGjr]

Have to start marking the ball. We are just scrambling

[Go_Dogs]

Getting ugly.

The same old story of having to work significantly harder for our forward entries and getting killed on the rebound.

And we snare one! Good finish Crameri.

[G-Mo77]

Best passage of play for the whole game. Great finish by Crameri.

[Sedat]

Never thought I'd see a team so easily sucked in by a 20 year old tactic, but we have been torched repeatedly by Pagans Paddock

[Go_Dogs]

Dahlhaus is a very good player, 2 in a row, one more here would be great.

[G-Mo77]

Redpath finding it very difficult, should have gobbled that mark. Looked a bit better that quarter.

[jeemak]

How our defenders keep allowing Geelong to get goal side i'll never know. Driving me mad.

[F'scary]

Never thought I'd see a team so easily sucked in by a 20 year old tactic, but we have been torched repeatedly by Pagans Paddock

And the num-num-num Pussies have done their homework and played the 7 man defence. McCartney still hasn't worked out what to do against that.

[bulldogtragic]

Redpath finding it very difficult, should have gobbled that mark. Looked a bit better that quarter.

I wonder if he will be subbed. This year when we've had a choice it's generally been a tallish forward.

Here's hoping for the next half!

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Never thought I'd see a team so easily sucked in by a 20 year old tactic, but we have been torched repeatedly by Pagans Paddock

It's unforgivable.

Sick of seeing us out classed tactically against better sides. Fair enough we're not on Geelong's level on the field, but allowing this crap to happen routinely is not acceptable, nor is allowing Taylor and co. to rack up uncontested possessions and then stream forward in waves through the corridor.

We're lucky to be within 6 goals at half time.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

And the num-num-num Pussies have done their homework and played the 7 man defence. McCartney still hasn't worked out what to do against that.
Or the players are not executing to instructions. I'm sure McCartney isn't telling Griffen, Boyd, Picken et al to scrub one blindly forward from a contest.

[GVGjr]

Or the players are not executing to instructions. I'm sure McCartney isn't telling Griffen, Boyd, Picken et al to scrub one blindly forward from a contest.

Exactly. The players above haven't helped the cause.

[bulldogtragic]

Austin subbed. Didn't see that coming.

[boydogs]

Marks 51-12 in the first half

[F'scary]

Austin subbed. Didn't see that coming.

I called it. Before the game started.

[F'scary]

Anyone going to pick Johnson up this quarter...or is that another cunning plan?

[Happy Days]

I called it. Before the game started.

Same.

But I called it at match committee, should have been subbed for Talia on Thursday. No place for a defender who goes to ground every time the ball goes near him.

[Remi Moses]

Austin's just a stop gap footballer. Nothing more nothing less

[bulldogtragic]

Same.

But I called it at match committee, should have been subbed for Talia on Thursday. No place for a defender who goes to ground every time the ball goes near him.

I didn't notice the going to ground thing voluntarily until today, it's a big issue which by 24 or so you'd imagine would be gone from his game.

[F'scary]

Same.

But I called it at match committee, should have been subbed for Talia on Thursday. No place for a defender who goes to ground every time the ball goes near him.

Isn't that called "dropped?" ;)

[bulldogtragic]

Pagan getting us again today, 20 years later, just through a different coach.

[Go_Dogs]

Bonts! Great finish.

[Sedat]

Crameri has been excellent today

[F'scary]

Macrae making a difference.

[bulldogtragic]

Bonts

[bulldogtragic]

That was pure Bontempelli.

[Go_Dogs]

Bonti again!

Fast becoming the best prospect from last years draft.

[F'scary]

We won the quarter. In with a chance. Go Western.

[AndrewP6]

20-8 free kicks our way:eek:

[Eastdog]

Big chance this final quarter. C'mon Dogs!!

[bulldogtragic]

If it bleeds, we can kill it. C'mon boys.

[Happy Days]

Wallis' handball to Bontempelli was the GOAT handball.

[bulldogtragic]

Bonts playing like a captain, amazing kid.

[Dry Rot]

How has Redpath gone?

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Crameri owes us a goal. A bit more composure and he had a man free over the top.

[bulldogtragic]

How has Redpath gone?

2 touches

[Go_Dogs]

How has Redpath gone?

Tough day for him. He's not quite there yet but he's hit the packs hard which is a good sign.

[F'scary]

#@!#$% kick straight guys.

[ReLoad]

Well we had plenty of chances, no questioning what could have been.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

We've got a lot of almost players. Guys who are almost very good, but who have deficiencies in key parts of their games that prevent them from being legitimate A graders. Dahlhaus is one. Gets big ticks in most areas but as a guy who makes his living up forward he is an unreliable shot for goal, especially from gimmes

[Go_Dogs]

Probably over now, but a solid effort today against a good team in tough conditions.

[boydogs]

More scoring shots, had our chances

[boydogs]

2 touches

5 touches. Will get a lot of excuses made for him under the conditions but could have done more and was obviously green. Didn't realise he was the ruckman in a forward line rucking contest late, and kept blocking his man when over the ball before knocking it out to the opposition. Needs a decent run at it to adjust, but didn't help us much today. A few crashed packs and tackles but not enough. Was lucky Austin was worse or he probably would have been subbed off

[GVGjr]

Random thought. Harry Taylor was drafted in 2007 and has played 150 senior games. Jarrad Grant was draft ahead of him in the same year and has played 61 senior games.

[F'scary]

Random thought. Harry Taylor was drafted in 2007 and has played 150 senior games. Jarrad Grant was draft ahead of him in the same year and has played 61 senior games.

More random thoughts: Everitt was BOG for Carton today.

[Greystache]

Random thought. Harry Taylor was drafted in 2007 and has played 150 senior games. Jarrad Grant was draft ahead of him in the same year and has played 61 senior games.

But Jarrad Grant played the best second half of football ever played last season. All 3 games of them!

[azabob]

Random thought. Harry Taylor was drafted in 2007 and has played 150 senior games. Jarrad Grant was draft ahead of him in the same year and has played 61 senior games.

Not sure of the relevance of posting this?

[GVGjr]

Not sure of the relevance of posting this?

Simple, Geelong get the draft right more than most.

[bulldogtragic]

Not sure of the relevance of posting this?

Yep. Is it that Jarrad was lazy, underdeveloped, or was the wrong selection???

Edit: just your post G.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Today showed why Austin should only play when we have injuries, and certainly not at the expense of Roberts/Talia - particularly the former who has been good when he's played.

Our young players were impressive in the second half. Wallis lacks polish but really dug deep, Libba was good and I thought Macrae helped turned the game when he came on. He got to the right spots, used it really well and worked hard. Bonti was very good too - scary how good he could be in a few years time, and I really liked the efforts of both Honeychurch and Hrovat.

Our core group of young players are going to be very good players, we just need to keep adding to it whilst also finding some players who can mark the ball at both ends of the ground.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Random thought. Harry Taylor was drafted in 2007 and has played 150 senior games. Jarrad Grant was draft ahead of him in the same year and has played 61 senior games.

I'd rather Dangerfield.

[Scorlibo]

Random thought. Harry Taylor was drafted in 2007 and has played 150 senior games. Jarrad Grant was draft ahead of him in the year and has played 61 senior games.

Random thought? Wow. With the benefit of hindsight, Carlton would be taking Taylor over Kreuzer, West Coast over Masten, Melbourne over Morton, Essendon over Myers, Fremantle over Palmer etc.

I'd be keeping Grant now over any of those players.

[bulldogtragic]

Random thought? Wow. With the benefit of hindsight, Carlton would be taking Taylor over Kreuzer, West Coast over Masten, Melbourne over Morton, Essendon over Myers, Fremantle over Palmer etc.

I'd be keeping Grant now over any of those players.

Completely agree.

[GVGjr]

I'd rather Dangerfield.

We can go over the draft but Dangerfield was gone before the Cats pick and they wanted him.

Given the two teams playing today and the fact that Taylor reached the 150 game milestone I thought it was relevant. There is basically 5 seasons of senior football difference in experience between the two

[Happy Days]

Completely agree.

Can we put a forum wide ban on retrospective drafting?

[bulldogtragic]

Can we put a forum wide ban on retrospective drafting?

You'd have to ask the mods, but I'd support you 100%. The Howard selection stuff has gone too long for me. We can bring up the Jackovich pick too if we go far enough. We've dealt ourselves our hand now we should be looking forward not back.

[GVGjr]

Random thought? Wow. With the benefit of hindsight, Carlton would be taking Taylor over Kreuzer, West Coast over Masten, Melbourne over Morton, Essendon over Myers, Fremantle over Palmer etc.

I'd be keeping Grant now over any of those players.

For goodness sake, it was acknowledging Taylors 150th and a comparison that Grant was drafted in the same year. I'm not having a go at Grant.

[F'scary]

Any thoughts on how some of our developing players went today? Stringer, Hrovat, Hunter & Honeychurch interest me in particular.

[GVGjr]

Can we put a forum wide ban on retrospective drafting?


You'd have to ask the mods, but I'd support you 100%. The Howard selection stuff has gone too long for me. We can bring up the Jackovich pick too if we go far enough. We've dealt ourselves our hand now we should be looking forward not back.

I've provided a reason why I thought it was relevant, lets move on.

[lemmon]

We were brave I thought, looked like getting run over a few times even though we got a fairly good rub from the umps. Just lacked some polish

[Go_Dogs]

Any thoughts on how some of our developing players went today? Stringer, Hrovat, Hunter & Honeychurch interest me in particular.

Thought they were all OK without having strong performances. A lot to like about them all though - really feel something good is going to happen when Hrovat has the ball and Honeychurch is an exciting prospect with a lot of intensity.

[Eastdog]

Disappointed with loss but that was a gallant defeat in my opinion. Crammers was very good. Bonts showed more again today will get better. Murph was important once again despite that mistake that gifted Geelong a goal. Roughy and Morris very good down back. Picken good too.

[LostDoggy]

Speaking of Harry Taylor... He runs to the same spot every single kick-in and Geelong always go to him (our coaches would know this watching just one of there games this year) yet he still gets by himself half a dozen times on the kick-ins. Unbelievable.

[The Underdog]

I love how bravely and gallantly we continually let teams beat us by easily getting loose men forward of the ball and when we randomly kick to opposition defenders on their own.

Our 2nd half was really competitive, but I'm pretty sick of watching the same deficiencies over & over.

Lots of positives but the same negatives.

[GVGjr]

Does anyone else believe that Bontempelli has added a bit of size this year? Normally it's a bit hard to do as the youngsters tend to struggle with the amount of running required but I think Bonts would have added a few KG since we drafted him.

[jeemak]

Yes I do. I noticed it after this most recent week.

He's going to be a monster.

[F'scary]

Does anyone else believe that Bontempelli has added a bit of size this year? Normally it's a bit hard to do as the youngsters tend to struggle with the amount of running required but I think Bonts would have added a few KG since we drafted him.

Definitely - must be 4 or 5 kilos on the pre draft footage.

Very pleasing the way he, Smith and Macrae have bulked up. I was getting sick of us recruiting only scrawney guys who have to run around in the shower to get wet. Even Hunter, Dahl, Wallis & Hrovat have a bit of definition which makes for a bit of inside grunt and torque.

[GVGjr]

Yes I do. I noticed it after this most recent week.

He's going to be a monster.

We are getting a great mix of midfielders with size and strength to compliment Liberatore and Wallis.

[Eastdog]

I love how bravely and gallantly we continually let teams beat us by easily getting loose men forward of the ball and when we randomly kick to opposition defenders on their own.

Our 2nd half was really competitive, but I'm pretty sick of watching the same deficiencies over & over.

Lots of positives but the same negatives.

Yes it's very frustrating for sure and we need to rectify it but I'm actually now really looking forward to the challenges ahead for our young team.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Interesting comments re: Macrae, and that he was "lucky" to be playing this week.

If he's that hard on our players, I wonder what he made of multiple water weak efforts from Higgins?

[Eastdog]

Interesting comments re: Macrae, and that he was "lucky" to be playing this week.

If he's that hard on our players, I wonder what he made of multiple water weak efforts from Higgins?

How did you rate Higgins game? Didn't see him get involved to much in the game like others who did.

[kruder]

Interesting comments re: Macrae, and that he was "lucky" to be playing this week.

If he's that hard on our players, I wonder what he made of multiple water weak efforts from Higgins?

He is trying to ensure the younger brigade are two way footballers which I love.Higgins is long gone unforetunatly . Obviously he was awful defensively tonight but the last two weeks his foot skills have been shocking.

[Happy Days]

I love how bravely and gallantly we continually let teams beat us by easily getting loose men forward of the ball and when we randomly kick to opposition defenders on their own.

Our 2nd half was really competitive, but I'm pretty sick of watching the same deficiencies over & over.

Lots of positives but the same negatives.

Yessir.

It's the price you pay for cracking in at forward 50 contests. It's pretty much the only way we score but is also the reason why we lose.

[Eastdog]

Yessir.

It's the price you pay for cracking in at forward 50 contests. It's pretty much the only way we score but is also the reason why we lose.

What % was our kicking by foot at the end if the game. At one stage I think in the 2nd quarter it was like 28% which was very poor.

[AndrewP6]

57.9% vs 66.5% for Geelong. Hard going in the wet.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

How did you rate Higgins game? Didn't see him get involved to much in the game like others who did.

He was poor and that is putting it nicely.

He is such an ordinary defender. I could understand us playing him down back to get some cheap kicks/confidence, but to play an entire season there? It doesn't work. He did make one good defensive effort last week v Melbourne late, but 8 times out of 10 the efforts are average.

His kicking has been poor the last two weeks too.

[Remi Moses]

He is trying to ensure the younger brigade are two way footballers which I love.Higgins is long gone unforetunatly . Obviously he was awful defensively tonight but the last two weeks his foot skills have been shocking.

Couldn't agree more. You need to play both ways, and unfortunately Shaun doesn't do that.
To be honest it's an easy gig off half back.

[FrediKanoute]

I think Hiigo's been good this year. He is generally a good user of the football and he reads the play well. He's not a natural half back, but I like him i that position. As for it being easy off half back.....its one of the most important positions because it is the launching point for most attacks and the first line of defence. Its no secret thatmost teams put their best users of the football on this line.

[G-Mo77]

Couldn't agree more. You need to play both ways, and unfortunately Shaun doesn't do that.
To be honest it's an easy gig off half back.

You played there have you Remi?

A good half backman drives needs to be a good ball user by foot and have the ability to run and make space. On top of that he also needs to keep his opponent in check.

[LostDoggy]

Does anyone else believe that Bontempelli has added a bit of size this year? Normally it's a bit hard to do as the youngsters tend to struggle with the amount of running required but I think Bonts would have added a few KG since we drafted him.

Yes. Was checking out his legs, in a platonic way, during the warm up. They're very strong for a first year player, They'll be tree trunks in two years time, but hopefully not too much to hinder his galloping.

[Sedat]

Very interesting comments from BMac post-match about Macrae. Basically said that he was lucky to be in the team this weekend and that weight of possessions aren't everything - made references to Macrae straying away from non-negotiables, which he knew and understood, and then said that he went away from these again late in the game yesterday.

[Murphy'sLore]

That is the closest thing to a massive bake I have ever heard BMac serve up - very unusual. Macrae must be in big trouble.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Very interesting comments from BMac post-match about Macrae. Basically said that he was lucky to be in the team this weekend and that weight of possessions aren't everything - made references to Macrae straying away from non-negotiables, which he knew and understood, and then said that he went away from these again late in the game yesterday.
Thought that was interesting also. Very rare for Macca to single out and name a player in a negative context to the public. Goes to show there is a lot going on out there in the field of play that us fans arent picking up on. There are lots of reasons for players being dropped that we are not aware of. The coaching staff dont just draw names out of a hat each week

[Ozza]

You played there have you Remi?

A good half backman drives needs to be a good ball user by foot and have the ability to run and make space. On top of that he also needs to keep his opponent in check.

...and has to read the play well, and has to often get back and fill the hole and/or help the full back.

[Ozza]

Thought that was interesting also. Very rare for Macca to single out and name a player in a negative context to the public. Goes to show there is a lot going on out there in the field of play that us fans arent picking up on. There are lots of reasons for players being dropped that we are not aware of. The coaching staff dont just draw names out of a hat each week

It's a good point.

Thought Macca's press conference was really interest and pointed this week. In particular I liked that;

1. As much as we have all lauded Macrae this year, it is good to hear some confirmation that they are challenging him (and all players) on the defensive/accountability side of their game now - and not letting Macrae develop/continue with bad habits. Often the really good U/18s players have been their teams best player - and come through having had to do very little on the defensive side of things - hence it has to be developed extensively at AFL level.

2. Macca mentioned that; 'we believe we are now 'there' in terms of being a tough team, we are getting close to becoming an accountable team, but we having plenty of work to do towards being a smarter team'. I think thats an acknowledgement supporters would appreciate, and shows the clear development pathway.

3. Also enjoyed that, although he jumped the gun on the journo, Macca was quick to shut down the 'poster boy' comment about Bonti.

[Hotdog60]

It was a good presser and the last thing you would need is a young player start believing his own press. I think the honeymoon is over and Maccas last couple of week have shown some frustration. We may see some funny calls at the selection table but it well maybe that rules are not being followed.

I wouldn't be surprized if there is only one change this week if any.

[Scorlibo]

The whole season I've been concerned about the amount of uncontested football that Macrae has been winning. He's been pretty regularly racking up 20+ uncontested touches - which says a fair bit about his ability to get to the right places but also means that he has the onus on him to use the ball in a damaging manner. When he's not doing that, the ball comes back the other way and whoever Jack has left on his own from the other team can hurt us.

He needs to start winning more contested ball because for all the plaudits coming his way this season, every elite midfielder in the competition wins at least 40% of their ball in the contest. Jack's going at something like 25%. He's only young, but bad habits stick easily and we want him to be more than an Andrew Gaff, Nathan Eagleton or Bachar Houli.

[The Pie Man]

That is the closest thing to a massive bake I have ever heard BMac serve up - very unusual. Macrae must be in big trouble.

Clearly he wanted to make a public point to Jackson - without knowing what these 'non-negotiables' are that he's not adhering to, I don't like the media spray.

He's a developing attacking weapon - does everyone have to play inside/accountable football 100% of the time?

[always right]

Clearly he wanted to make a public point to Jackson - without knowing what these 'non-negotiables' are that he's not adhering to, I don't like the media spray.

He's a developing attacking weapon - does everyone have to play inside/accountable football 100% of the time?

Who says it's about inside/accountable football?

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Clearly he wanted to make a public point to Jackson - without knowing what these 'non-negotiables' are that he's not adhering to, I don't like the media spray.

He's a developing attacking weapon - does everyone have to play inside/accountable football 100% of the time?

I don't like it either, particularly given senior players have escaped this kind of criticism.

It does seem like we try to knock any type of creative flair out of players, by drilling them with the "defensive aspects of the game".

Meanwhile, we're still crap defensively and have hardly improved in this area in 3 years.

[jeemak]

Ok, well if he reverts back to boring old Bmac next week don't complain.

It wasn't a spray either, it was just honest feedback that Macrae would no doubt have received face to face.

[The Pie Man]

Who says it's about inside/accountable football?

Technicality - I'd be very confident that's what it is. But yes, I could be wrong, and there's no quote to support my contention.

[The Pie Man]

Ok, well if he reverts back to boring old Bmac next week don't complain.

It wasn't a spray either, it was just honest feedback that Macrae would no doubt have received face to face.

No doubt that feedback was given directly - but saying in a press conference that he was 'lucky to be playing' is a bit of a sting. I'm comfortable calling it a spray

[always right]

Technicality - I'd be very confident that's what it is. But yes, I could be wrong, and there's no quote to support my contention.

Perhaps it might simply be a case of knowing where your player is when we don't have the ball. Must say I did notice watching the second half that Macrae seemed to be floating back and forward without anyone closeby. I thought at the time it was strange that he didn't seem to be playing on anyone. We certainly need his creativity but we don't want his opponent running around unchallenged either.

[jeemak]

Just listened to it again, and I guess we have different interpretations of what constitutes a spray!

Certainly strong and pointed words, no doubt.

[The Pie Man]

Perhaps it might simply be a case of knowing where your player is when we don't have the ball. Must say I did notice watching the second half that Macrae seemed to be floating back and forward without anyone closeby. I thought at the time it was strange that he didn't seem to be playing on anyone. We certainly need his creativity but we don't want his opponent running around unchallenged either.

Fair enough, balance I guess is the key

[chef]

Just listened to it again, and I guess we have different interpretations of what constitutes a spray!

Certainly strong and pointed words, no doubt.

Eade would be shaking his head with that being called a spray:D

[GVGjr]

The whole season I've been concerned about the amount of uncontested football that Macrae has been winning. He's been pretty regularly racking up 20+ uncontested touches - which says a fair bit about his ability to get to the right places but also means that he has the onus on him to use the ball in a damaging manner. When he's not doing that, the ball comes back the other way and whoever Jack has left on his own from the other team can hurt us.

He needs to start winning more contested ball because for all the plaudits coming his way this season, every elite midfielder in the competition wins at least 40% of their ball in the contest. Jack's going at something like 25%. He's only young, but bad habits stick easily and we want him to be more than an Andrew Gaff, Nathan Eagleton or Bachar Houli.

Excellent piece of analysis. Thanks

[GVGjr]

Clearly he wanted to make a public point to Jackson - without knowing what these 'non-negotiables' are that he's not adhering to, I don't like the media spray.

He's a developing attacking weapon - does everyone have to play inside/accountable football 100% of the time?

You're damned if you do and if you don't. People wanted answers on why Macrae was used as a sub but now that they get a non emotive but detailed answer we are now a bit gun shy if it was the right thing to do. Might be one of those can't win situations where any answer provided will be seen as wrong.

[westdog54]

Loved hearing Macca say the players got some 'strong feedback' about not sticking to the plan. Would have loved to hear it first hand.

[boydogs]

The whole season I've been concerned about the amount of uncontested football that Macrae has been winning.

He's the man we want to have the ball, not Boyd, Wallis, Stevens or Picken.

We need some of the other outside players to come on to share the load like Bonts & Hrovat, but he's been doing well to provide an option on the outside and use the ball well this year

[G-Mo77]

That is the closest thing to a massive bake I have ever heard BMac serve up - very unusual. Macrae must be in big trouble.

Don't care for it to be honest, no reason to "name and shame" a kid like that. Those things stay behind closed doors.

[F'scary]

I don't like it either, particularly given senior players have escaped this kind of criticism.

It does seem like we try to knock any type of creative flair out of players, by drilling them with the "defensive aspects of the game".

Meanwhile, we're still crap defensively and have hardly improved in this area in 3 years.

On the money, TBB. Macrae has to be the least of our worries.

[The bulldog tragician]

Don't care for it to be honest, no reason to "name and shame" a kid like that. Those things stay behind closed doors.
I have to agree. Even if he commented on the need for defensive accountability, I was surprised to hear the comment that he was lucky to be in the side. That seemed a bit personal and pointed. I've never seen anything to suggest young Jack is a big head who won't take feedback, so delivering this ine the public as well as private sphere was a bit disappointing I thought. We have to hope BMac knows the psyche of his players I suppose but I didn't see the need for it to be public.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

I'm fine with Macca's handling of Macrae, in fact I think it is indicative of excellent understanding from Macca in how to teach a good young player with a strong character and a drive to improve.

On a scale of public bakes it ranks very, very low. The criticism was unemotional, specific, without malice or personal attack. In fact I wouldn't even classify it as one. He merely answered as to why Macrae was made sub. I think Macca knows his charges well and has seen fit to publically praise Macrae on several occasions so I hardly think Macrae will think anything other than he needs to listen and take in the feedback.

Clearly Macca has brought this up with him before and for whatever reason Macrae has not fully absorbed what he has been instructed. I think Macca knows how driven Macrae is and has strategically used the velvet glove in public to challenge him.
Good work Macca I say.

[The Pie Man]

Eade would be shaking his head with that being called a spray:D

Let me clarify - I maybe guilty of a headline label (e.g one mild criticism becomes 'Macca slams McCrae over ...') but I was/am genuinely shocked he went down that road.

It was measured - so it's not the delivery that I question. It's the forum. Saying 'he was lucky to play' after accepting that people see perhaps only see possessions feels pretty harsh to me, hence the spray label.

We all know Lake et al needed towels after some Rocket blasts - but I can't remember him saying anything like that publicly (that's my response to the above post - not looking to compare too much)

Not surprised Macca was asked why Jack was sub - but there was an obvious out to this. 'He was sore' It's exactly what I thought when I saw he was the sub.

Hope he really knows what he's doing.

[always right]

Not surprised Macca was asked why Jack was sub - but there was an obvious out to this. 'He was sore' It's exactly what I thought when I saw he was the sub.

Hope he really knows what he's doing.

I'd be more concerned if we had a coach playing a young bloke he admits is sore.

[Twodogs]

Eade bagged Lake out at pressers all the time.

[SonofScray]

People are going in way too hard over the Macrae comments. It was very honest from the Coach, probably quite stark in comparison to what we get most of the time in the AFL media but it ranks well below Eade's 'dumbest smart bloke' belittling of Minson a few years back which was disgraceful.

[GVGjr]

L
Not surprised Macca was asked why Jack was sub - but there was an obvious out to this. 'He was sore' It's exactly what I thought when I saw he was the sub.

Hope he really knows what he's doing.

And the cries would have been that he therefore shouldn't have been played. People weren't happy that Macrae was the sub and I remain convinced that whatever answer Macca gave wouldn't have been acceptable for many.
A while back Lake had his integrity questioned about his ability to play through with some pain and many did not have an issue with that. In the end the injury with Lake actually required a longer break.

Some player react better to public pressure than others and I don't think there will be an issue for Macrae.

[bulldogtragic]

And the cries would have been that he therefore shouldn't have been played. People weren't happy that Macrae was the sub and I remain convinced that whatever answer Macca gave wouldn't have been acceptable for many.

Care to name names? I for one don't see the fuss with Macca's comments to explain what I didn't see as an obvious reason to start a ball magnet on the pine. So who are these many people?

[The Bulldogs Bite]

And the cries would have been that he therefore shouldn't have been played. People weren't happy that Macrae was the sub and I remain convinced that whatever answer Macca gave wouldn't have been acceptable for many.
A while back Lake had his integrity questioned about his ability to play through with some pain and many did not have an issue with that. In the end the injury with Lake actually required a longer break.

Some player react better to public pressure than others and I don't think there will be an issue for Macrae.

IIRC most people did have an issue with this. I know I did.

My annoyance is that he's picked out a player who hasn't played 20 games, but he hasn't voiced that same kind of criticism for any of our senior players who continually make both team and individual errors.

[The Underdog]

Eade bagged Lake out at pressers all the time.

And now Alastair Clarkson gets to do it

[The Underdog]

IIRC most people did have an issue with this. I know I did.

My annoyance is that he's picked out a player who hasn't played 20 games, but he hasn't voiced that same kind of criticism for any of our senior players who continually make both team and individual errors.

Yes, but if he sees it a continual behaviour, isn't it better to try and knock it on the head now? I'm not that astute and I was questioning some of his defensive efforts watching the game against the Lions. I remember one definite time when his unwillingness to work into a defensive position cost us a goal in that game.
Maybe it was a message that had been continually passed on in meetings and hasn't been adhered to, so he chose to take it public. And just because he hasn't pointed out other players in public, doesn't mean they haven't been given some treatment in private. I'm still on the fence with Macca, but there is just too many aspects of this situation we can't be privy too for me to be overly critical.

[bornadog]

My annoyance is that he's picked out a player who hasn't played 20 games, but he hasn't voiced that same kind of criticism for any of our senior players who continually make both team and individual errors.

A journo asked Macca why did Macrae who is averaging 25 disposals per game start on the bench and Macca answered honestly.

[GVGjr]

A journo asked Macca why did Macrae who is averaging 25 disposals per game start on the bench and Macca answered honestly.

It wasn't a huge whack either, it was an honest answer to the question and yet apparently it's the wrong way to go. I will back Macca's ability top read if it will devastate or motivate Macrae. As I stated before, I think whatever answer he gave would have been the wrong one in the eyes of many.

[bornadog]

It wasn't a huge whack either, it was an honest answer to the question and yet apparently it's the wrong way to go. I will back Macca's ability top read if it will devastate or motivate Macrae. As I stated before, I think whatever answer he gave would have been the wrong one in the eyes of many.

If you read about or listen to Macca its all about the team and what your role is in the team, not about individuals. I can't see anything wrong with his answer to the question.

[ledge]

He also mentioned bonti not being the pin up boy. So this mantra of team is demanded at both ends of the spectrum. If we want to get tecnichal that could be having a go a bonti by not letting him become the pin up boy.

[Hotdog60]

If Macrae gets a game this week and is BOG and his opponent gets diddy squat possessions was it a good move to say what he said.

Maybe we need to wait to see how things pan out. Maccas reputation is a very good teacher of players and gets to know them and their traits. This maybe other tool to get the best out of a young player.

I'm on the fence with this one.

[chef]

A journo asked Macca why did Macrae who is averaging 25 disposals per game start on the bench and Macca answered honestly.

Yep, I thought it was great to hear the truth.

[G-Mo77]

And the cries would have been that he therefore shouldn't have been played. People weren't happy that Macrae was the sub and I remain convinced that whatever answer Macca gave wouldn't have been acceptable for many.


I wasn't happy he was sub and you're right any other answer people wouldn't have been happy, I wouldn't have been happy but I would have preferred any other answer. He hasn't called anyone out at all and then decides to call out Macrae, a player who is in his second year? I think it was pretty weak to be honest. I'm still a little pissy that our best ball user was sitting their cold when we continuously kicked the ball to Geelong players for most of the game. That first quarter a classy ball user like Macrae would have been nice to have.

[GVGjr]

I wasn't happy he was sub and you're right any other answer people wouldn't have been happy, I wouldn't have been happy but I would have preferred any other answer. He hasn't called anyone out at all and then decides to call out Macrae, a player who is in his second year? I think it was pretty weak to be honest. I'm still a little pissy that our best ball user was sitting their cold when we continuously kicked the ball to Geelong players for most of the game. That first quarter a classy ball user like Macrae would have been nice to have.

It's not the first time Macca has called out someone because I'm sure he mentioned the reasons why Talia wasn't being played earlier in the season when Morris was out injured but either way I think Macca has made an investment in the development of Macrae.
I'm also sure he wouldn't have done it if he didn't think Macrae will react in the right manner. I guess even good ball users don't get a free pass on the defensive side of their games. It should be a good message to all.

[G-Mo77]

It's not the first time Macca has called out someone because I'm sure he mentioned the reasons why Talia wasn't being played earlier in the season when Morris was out injured but either way I think Macca has made an investment in the development of Macrae.
I'm also sure he wouldn't have done it if he didn't think Macrae will react in the right manner. I guess even good ball users don't get a free pass on the defensive side of their games. It should be a good message to all.

Yeah that's fine but there is a time and place to give that message and in a press conference after the game is not one of them. It come across to me a defensive answer to a a journalist who questioned his decision to sub Macrae.

On the topic all our players need to develop a defensive side but they've also got to be offensive as well. I'd hate to see this beaten out of the kid. We have our grunt midfielders who tackle hard and apply the blow torch defensively. Players like Macrae need to be there to finish off their good work not the other way around.

[azabob]

If you read about or listen to Macca its all about the team and what your role is in the team, not about individuals. I can't see anything wrong with his answer to the question.

Yep, and his response to the question included that if players don't do X, they put their team-mates under pressure on other parts of the ground.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Yeah that's fine but there is a time and place to give that message and in a press conference after the game is not one of them. It come across to me a defensive answer to a a journalist who questioned his decision to sub Macrae.

On the topic all our players need to develop a defensive side but they've also got to be offensive as well. I'd hate to see this beaten out of the kid. We have our grunt midfielders who tackle hard and apply the blow torch defensively. Players like Macrae need to be there to finish off their good work not the other way around.

An inside game and accountability are two separate things.

The way i see it is that Macca has used the public medium as a way of teaching Macrae. He has obviously - for weeks - delivered this message in private, but yet again Macrae did not adhere to it on Sunday. Accountability is very important. Relying on talent alone will not get the job done. Every player needs to be accountable else we get opened up. The AFL is fast becoming similar to the NFL where if one player loses their assignment the whole play is opened up.

[The Pie Man]

People are going in way too hard over the Macrae comments. It was very honest from the Coach, probably quite stark in comparison to what we get most of the time in the AFL media but it ranks well below Eade's 'dumbest smart bloke' belittling of Minson a few years back which was disgraceful.

Clearly I forgot about that Minson quote. My previous statement's exposed

So is the sub role now a form of punishment? Should he have been given a full game at Footscray to work on these deficiencies?

I won't say much more on it - I disagree with a few of you very firmly on this

[Mofra]

If anything this whole conversation shows how bland and boring AFL media has become.

A coach answers a question honestly and people spend days discussing it, yet whenever a coach just provides clichéd answers people whine about the lack of real information from AFL clubs.

You can't win.

[jeemak]

I noted more frustration out of Bmac's presser.

- Not happy that we allowed to forwards to get goal side for a few easy goals in the first half (though some saw this as a strategy failure on his part)

- Frustrated by our ball use going forward and our inability to not give it up too easily, reference to Geelong's positioning suggested to me this was addressed prior to the game but we still fell for the trap

- Giving stern feedback to players (I think the Dahlaus effort on goal where we should have run it in with an advantage in the 3rd) for opportunities missed

A few weeks ago he mentioned in a press conference he is getting frustrated by seeing the same errors being committed, and I get the impression he's turning up the heat on the group.

[Bulldog4life]

I back the coach in this situation. Irrespective whether its in public or private an AFL player can't be too precious when it comes to criticism. I am sure young Jackson accepts this. A storm in a teacup.

[SlimPickens]

I back the coach in this situation. Irrespective whether its in public or private an AFL player can't be too precious when it comes to criticism. I am sure young Jackson accepts this. A storm in a teacup.

Agree, amazed at the response by some. We constantly hear how boring/predictable Maccas press conferences are, and now that he shys away from the script we get this response. Perplexing!

[bulldogtragic]

Agree, amazed at the response by some. We constantly hear how boring/predictable Maccas press conferences are, and now that he shys away from the script we get this response. Perplexing!

I know i'm meant be some immortal enemy of Macca, but I really don't see the issue. I can't remember "potting" him about his media work because he's an acquired taste, and I quite like that about him. What does shit me is the puff pieces about all and sundry being fantastic when clearly we have some issues, and that's not really down to Macca at my guess. I can't speak for anyone else, but when we ask the coach to be honest and engage our members/supporters and when things happen let us in on the reason, even if we don't agree, it's a bit hard to then go him when he does. I can live with being told the truth, the truth isn't always positive or enjoyable, but i'd rather be told the truth more often than not.

Also, again with positiveness, Macca is regarded as the best development coach out there. Having spent 15 years just in the AFL system I'm betting he knows every personality type that footy has. So I would put money on Macca knowing Jack and that this lever needed to be pulled this week for him and maybe the group. Macca strikes me as a very intelligent with footy smarts and a deliberate coach and is looking for a specific response, Macca strikes me as a think first, then talk man. If you look at public comment from coaches this year with Riewoldt, then 11 goals on GWS, Boomer and then Hawthorn, Sewell since he's back, Carlisle (can't remember his back to form game) - there's not a lot of public criticism, but when there is it seems very, very targeted and the responses have been very, very good. On this basis that Macca knows Jack and group very well and with his experience, I will happily go along with Macca.



P.S. For all the bullshit 'BT hates Macca' comments that seem pop up every week, please feel free to quote this next time I ask any type of question where you wrongly insinuate (like the sub...) that I hate him. I don't, outside of some match day stuff he's still working on, I quite like the coach and more especially the man. Questioning things doesn't mean "potting" or death by a "1000 cuts", it just means I have the capacity for independent thought so I like to pose questions and sometimes disagree.


http://youtu.be/UEaKX9YYHiQ




.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

He hasn't called anyone out at all and then decides to call out Macrae, a player who is in his second year? I think it was pretty weak to be honest.

This is what is getting missed by most and I agree G-Mo.

[jeemak]

This is what is getting missed by most and I agree G-Mo.

You've mentioned Higgins as being one player you've thought has let us down defencively at times this season (a point with which I agree to some extent - though I understand he's only having his first solid season of footy in years let alone his first solid season as a defender in his entire career).

Would you be OK with Bmac pointedly answering a question specifically about him at a press conference?

[Scorlibo]

Macca knows Jack better than any of us do. I think he has enough credits in the bank (player relations and development wise) to be backed in on this one.

[G-Mo77]

You've mentioned Higgins as being one player you've thought has let us down defencively at times this season (a point with which I agree to some extent - though I understand he's only having his first solid season of footy in years let alone his first solid season as a defender in his entire career).

Would you be OK with Bmac pointedly answering a question specifically about him at a press conference?

I wouldn't have as much of an issue because Higgins as been around a bit longer but still, IMO you should tread a very fine line on what you say in public and I think Macca crossed that Sunday. I wouldn't have that much of an issue with his response but is tone was quite sarcastic when he mentioned "20 - 25 disposals" then his last comment about him lucky to be playing was a bit to much of a slap in the face for my likings. Don't care for it and I think it could have been handled better a lot better. A response along the lines of Jack's still learning and has to improve on his defensive side would have been more appropriate.

Also as someone else brought up being sub is punishment now? What a bad message to send. If Jack is not listening drop him like we should with anyone else in the same situation.

And before anyone jumps on me I have rarely had an issue with Macca's cliched responses in press conferences. My issue is I hear our players didn't listen to instructions week in week out and it's taken him until now to take aim at someone who's played, what 20 - 25 games? Give me a break?

[jeemak]

Fair enough G-Mo.

He was obviously frustrated, and has probably raised this directly with the player on numerous occasions over the last two years. If the final straw was Macrae slipping back to habit in the last portion of the game then I can understand why he thought he needed to publicly address it.

With respect to Macrae being the sub, perhaps it wasn't a punishment but more of a challenge to Macrae to be able to demonstrate ability to play the way he's been asked to play for a full quarter or half as something to build on.

[Happy Days]

Macrae doesn't play defence, coach addresses it in house, Macrae continues not to play defence, coach makes him the sub, Macrae continues not to play defence, what else does the coach do?

What's the definition of insanity again? Doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result? No problem with this, my problem is with Macrae not playing to instruction and generally disregarding what he's told to do.

[Dogs 24/7]

Macca knows Jack better than any of us do. I think he has enough credits in the bank (player relations and development wise) to be backed in on this one.

I think most people that are objecting to what McCartney said because McCrae is a popular player where if it was Austin or Howard McCartney would be lauded for taking a public stand against an under performing player.

Much like the stock market young Bulldog players are initially rated more on their popularity and potential than their results.
Right now it doesn't matter if McCrae isn't a defensive expert he shouldnt be criticized by the coach because he gets the ball a lot and he plays with some attacking flair which we all crave for.
In 2 years time if McCrae's defensive ethos has developed into something similar to Eagleton's he will cop his right whack even from those defending him now.
Timing is everything.

[NoParkingOnMatchDays]

478

Different speed depending which way the balls going but he will get there. He will respond. Or he'll get cheesed off and go play for Collingwood.

[GVGjr]

I I wouldn't have that much of an issue with his response but is tone was quite sarcastic when he mentioned "20 - 25 disposals" then his last comment about him lucky to be playing was a bit to much of a slap in the face for my likings. Don't care for it and I think it could have been handled better a lot better.


While I respect your stance and clearly you are very disappointed in his response on why Macrae was the sub, I've gone back and had a listen to his presser twice now and I can't hear any form of sarcasm from Macca. Perhaps as you suggest he should have handled things better by avoiding a direct answer to the question or just played the straight bat to it but I still don't see his comments as sarcastic or even a slap in the face of the player.

It's interesting how so many of us have a vastly different interpretation of the same response.

[boydogs]

I think most people that are objecting to what McCartney said because McCrae is a popular player where if it was Austin or Howard McCartney would be lauded for taking a public stand against an under performing player.

He actually took a nice swipe at Jones too which hasn't rated a mention. He got called out for his inconsistency earlier in the year, and now when Macca was asked about Redpath (not Jones, unlike the Macrae comment which was in response to a question about Macrae himself) he said he will be playing for a while as others who have been given an opportunity haven't taken it. He didn't need to add that in.

It's so rare that we see public truths from Macca though that I'm not convinced they were deliberate prepared remarks, he may have just been a bit grumpy this week

[Scorlibo]

It's so rare that we see public truths from Macca though that I'm not convinced they were deliberate prepared remarks, he may have just been a bit grumpy this week

Maybe it was a case of mood for Macca, but maybe it's just that time of the year where he starts to expect a more cohesive team unit. Making 3-5 changes to the side on a regular basis is fine in the first half of the year, but it would be frustrating for Macca to see Jones (for instance) unable to hold his forward spot come this stage of the year when we want to be putting in some good performances and showing the collective improvement.

The team would have also been very aware of Geelong's sustained poor form. This was a winnable game for us and we didn't get over the line.

[Remi Moses]

You played there have you Remi?

A good half backman drives needs to be a good ball user by foot and have the ability to run and make space. On top of that he also needs to keep his opponent in check.

Key thing being able to defend. I guess none of us should comment seeing nobody has played at league level.

[bornadog]

Key thing being able to defend. I guess none of us should comment seeing nobody has played at league level.
That is not strictly true

[Remi Moses]

Clearly picked his mark.Was asked a question and answered it honestly.

[Remi Moses]

That is not strictly true

Just a tongue in cheek comment. There are a few media types who trott out "how many games did you play"
Brian Taylor springs to mind

[westdog54]

Just a tongue in cheek comment. There are a few media types who trott out "how many games did you play"
Brian Taylor springs to mind
Its one of my pet hates.

I have been breathing for 31 years but I don't claim to be an expert on the respiratory system.

[chef]

While I respect your stance and clearly you are very disappointed in his response on why Macrae was the sub, I've gone back and had a listen to his presser twice now and I can't hear any form of sarcasm from Macca. Perhaps as you suggest he should have handled things better by avoiding a direct answer to the question or just played the straight bat to it but I still don't see his comments as sarcastic or even a slap in the face of the player.

It's interesting how so many of us have a vastly different interpretation of the same response.

I guess everyone hears what they want to hear.

[boydogs]

Macca backs down

Western Bulldogs ‏@westernbulldogs 3h
McCartney: I was probably a bit too honest about Jack Macrae in the post match, I'll learn from that. He's a brilliant young man.

[Greystache]

Macca backs down

Western Bulldogs ‏@westernbulldogs 3h
McCartney: I was probably a bit too honest about Jack Macrae in the post match, I'll learn from that. He's a brilliant young man.

Super. He's been bullied into trotting out the standard generic clichés going forward. No doubt the same people complaining now will be complaining about boring media.

[jeemak]

"a bit too honest".

I look forward hearing his "a little less honest" comments going forwards.

[Sedat]

Super. He's been bullied into trotting out the standard generic clichés going forward. No doubt the same people complaining now will be complaining about boring media.
I'm glad he made a point of it post-match though. I've met Jack and he's a terrific and impressive young man. He is undoubtedly an elite young talent, and if he can grasp some of the defensive aspects of his game he will continue to improve on his already excellent career thus far. Continued improvement is what every AFL player should be striving for, and young Jack is definitely made of right stuff to keep working on his deficiencies to become a great player - there's no way he would have taken this as anything other than constructive criticism to drive him to even higher standards.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

For all the discussion this week:

http://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/western-bulldogs-coach-brendan-mccartney-says-he-was-too-honest-in-assessment-of-young-gun-jack-macrae/story-fndv8weh-1226982740202 (http://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/western-bulldogs-coach-brendan-mccartney-says-he-was-too-honest-in-assessment-of-young-gun-jack-macrae/story-fndv8weh-1226982740202)

Make of it what you will

[Maddog37]

Macca didn't say he was wrong in what he said. He did admit the forum used was incorrect. Still got his point across and hopefully the message resonates with Jack who really seems like a good kid.

Macca reminds me a bit of Dennis Pagan with the way he relates to the players.

[The Pie Man]

Macca didn't say he was wrong in what he said. He did admit the forum used was incorrect. Still got his point across and hopefully the message resonates with Jack who really seems like a good kid.

Macca reminds me a bit of Dennis Pagan with the way he relates to the players.

That was my main beef - taking it public felt a bit destructive, not constructive - but credit to Macca; to say 'I'll learn from that' takes strength. Let's hope Jack continues to do the same. I can't recall ever moaning about Macca having a boring media presence (I just don't care that much about that) but if I did, I didn't want the alternative to be individuals targeted.

I did initially carry on about him being a developing attacking weapon blah blah blah - but if anyone strays from team oriented actions, they of course need to be called on it on review.

[Mofra]

Super. He's been bullied into trotting out the standard generic clichés going forward. No doubt the same people complaining now will be complaining about boring media.
This x 1000

You could put the house on it

[G-Mo77]

Super. He's been bullied into trotting out the standard generic clichés going forward. No doubt the same people complaining now will be complaining about boring media.

Oh yes of course they will. :rolleyes:

FWIW I've never had much of an issue with Macca in the media but because I and others go against the grain we're open to a false and pretty insulting generalization.

Good to see he had admitted it was the wrong way to go about it because it was exactly that.

[Happy Days]

For all the discussion this week:

http://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/western-bulldogs-coach-brendan-mccartney-says-he-was-too-honest-in-assessment-of-young-gun-jack-macrae/story-fndv8weh-1226982740202 (http://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/western-bulldogs-coach-brendan-mccartney-says-he-was-too-honest-in-assessment-of-young-gun-jack-macrae/story-fndv8weh-1226982740202)

Make of it what you will

Sorry not sorry.

[azabob]

So after all that a senior player in Higgins is dropped and the young buck who was mentioned in the presser stays in.

Not sure BMAC needed to admit he erred with his Macrae comment. Personally I don't think he did.

I am surprised though (not upset) Higgins was dropped.