Ins and Outs Round 4?

[Dry Rot]

Will anyone get rested for the trip west? Who will replace Lake if he's out?

[LostDoggy]

Will anyone get rested for the trip west? Who will replace Lake if he's out?

i think they would have to bring welsh in cause our forward structure struggled today with out him and murphy early.

the outs could be anyone as i think we have got a squad of about 28 players that i think rocket will play depending on match ups, i think the first 18 pick themselves and after that its all match ups

[LostDoggy]

Picken might be suspended

[LostDoggy]

Like I said on BF
If we are going to rest Aker I suggest next week. Give Murphy another week. Perfect chance to bring in Grant imo. Picken should get off. Very soft free
In: Grant, Callan?
Out: Aker, Picken(if he does get suspended)

[MrMahatma]

Would think Harbrow, Callan, Grant, Welsh would all be in the mix.

[The Coon Dog]

Cooney looks nowhere near fit. Will he get better by continuing to play or by having a rest? I have no idea on that, so hopefully we have a budding medico who might.

It is a real concern that we only have a 6 day break before playing the Eagles in Perth (as opposed to their 8 day break) & with that in mind it would be a good time to rest some players.

For far too long in out game we have picked the best 22 each week to take on the opposition with little regard to the longer term. I really believe our club is looking at this differently & have had 6 months to prepare for the tough early season fixture (we didn't have to go to Darwin, which would have been factored in) & test players during the week to see who might be better if they had a week off. I think we have the ability with our squad to effectively manage this.

[LostDoggy]

Yeah I agree TCD he looks slow and underdone (actually got run down today something unheard of) a rest might be a good thing

Callan/Welsh should only come in if they are ready and at expense of just an unlucky player because everyone really did their job today even if the skills weren't fantastic..

[Mofra]

Tiller's 3 or 4 OOB on the full didn't look good. If we're after another tall backman, Everitt may be pushing him.
Welsh has to come in, we are better with him in the side. Hill lacks intensity for 4 quarters - although he seems to be a 4th quarter specialist who has still earned his place in the side.
Harbrow must be close as well.

[bornadog]

Haven't had time to think of all the ins and outs, but would have thought another tall like Everitt would have to come in.

[ledge]

We done want to lose this game though considering games after it.

[1eyedog]

Tiller's 3 or 4 OOB on the full didn't look good. If we're after another tall backman, Everitt may be pushing him.
Welsh has to come in, we are better with him in the side. Hill lacks intensity for 4 quarters - although he seems to be a 4th quarter specialist who has still earned his place in the side.
Harbrow must be close as well.

Hill is our X factor. He's not untouchable by any stretch of the imagination but he should not be mentioned in the same sentence as potential outs IMO (and yes I do see that you have not included him in the outs). He plays predominately forward and I don't think he's an intense kind of player, he has deft touches and reads the play extremely well. He often does 3 or 4 things a game that very few players are capable of doing, which doesn't mean that he shouldn't be more intense, its just that he has other tricks as well.

[azabob]

Haven't had time to think of all the ins and outs, but would have thought another tall like Everitt would have to come in.

Why another Tall? W/C don't have too many KPF do they?

[1eyedog]

Why another Tall? W/C don't have too many KPF do they?

Hansen and Q-tip really over 6'4 down there. We may exploit their defence though.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Tiller's 3 or 4 OOB on the full didn't look good. If we're after another tall backman, Everitt may be pushing him.
Welsh has to come in, we are better with him in the side. Hill lacks intensity for 4 quarters - although he seems to be a 4th quarter specialist who has still earned his place in the side.
Harbrow must be close as well.

Huh?

Hill was very close to BOG. His whole game was fantastic.

Strange comment.

In any case, Welsh and Harbrow will probably find themselves back in the side. Everitt/Reid might be a chance too.

[Bumper Bulldogs]

May be an opportunity to rest Williams, Cooney, Ward & Aker.

In's could be Everitt, Harbrow, Welsh & Reid.

Who would have thought we would even be thinking like this. I would like to see Picken get the job on Kerr.

[Griffo]

To rest Williams & Ward would be crazy (unless they're injured). They are two blokes who need all the games they can get at this stage.

[Happy Days]

I'm all for resting players, but in round 4?

The only one warranting of a rest is Cooney, as I'm still unsure of whether he is truly match fit. I'd bring in Welsh, as Coon's been playing as a forward more-or-less anyway.

If there's a need for a tall backman, then Tiller should be dropped for Everitt (no idea how he got picked ahead of him today), if not, then drop him for Harbrow.

If Picken gets weeks, then bring in either Reid (mid for mid) or Grant (see how close he is to the level)

[GVGjr]

If there's a need for a tall backman, then Tiller should be dropped for Everitt (no idea how he got picked ahead of him today), if not, then drop him for Harbrow.



I think in Rockets mind Everitt might be 193cm tall but he can't be used as a tall defender.
Tiller on the other hand generally does OK on taller opponents.

My guess is that we could rest Akermanis and Eagleton.

[alwaysadog]

I think in Rockets mind Everitt might be 193cm tall but he can't be used as a tall defender.
Tiller on the other hand generally does OK on taller opponents.

My guess is that we could rest Akermanis and Eagleton.

Rocket sees Tiller in out best 25 at this stage.

[lemmon]

Would give Cooney a rest didnt look fit and the trip to Perth could push him.

[AndrewP6]

I'd only rest Cooney if he's actually hurt. If he just needs game time, play him as he's been played so far, sparingly. I'm not sure we should view this game as one where we can afford to rest players -ie- Aker. If Picken gets an enforced holiday (courtesy tribunal!) then maybe Reid or Harbrow could get a go. I like Tiller, but those out-of-bounds were very ordinary. I'd drop him, and put Welsh in. Everitt could get a look in too... oh, and is Murph good to go? kind of glad I'm not on the match committee!

[AndrewP6]

Just read that last post. It is now clear to me, I've sat myself squarely on the fence with many of those selections!

[GVGjr]

I'd only rest Cooney if he's actually hurt. If he just needs game time, play him as he's been played so far, sparingly. I'm not sure we should view this game as one where we can afford to rest players -ie- Aker. If Picken gets an enforced holiday (courtesy tribunal!) then maybe Reid or Harbrow could get a go. I like Tiller, but those out-of-bounds were very ordinary. I'd drop him, and put Welsh in. Everitt could get a look in too... oh, and is Murph good to go? kind of glad I'm not on the match committee!

I agree about Cooney, he needs to be eased along for the next couple of weeks but a holiday might not be the answer.

I'd consider bringing in Welsh and Harbrow for Akermanis and Eagleton. If Picken gets a spell then I would add Reid.

[LostDoggy]

Was Harbrow dropped or was there another reason? If dropped he was very unlucky I thought he was great against North Melbourne. Acker is the only one that could be rested this week as he struggled towards the end of last year. Johnson is the only other one that could be rested but as he his the captain I feel he will desperatley want to a play a problem which may need to be addressed later in the year.

[LostDoggy]

To rest Williams & Ward would be crazy (unless they're injured). They are two blokes who need all the games they can get at this stage.

It was heartening to see Williams out there today, and I agree, I think he needs as much game time as possible to get his confidence up. Cooney said on Saturday night on Before the Game that he was about 4 weeks away from full fitness - if's that's the case, then perhaps we should rest him. Need him to be in peak form in September :D

[bulldogtragic]

I heave heard on the radio and the like the aim is to slowly increase Cooney's actual game time. round one was 55%, round two 60% and today i'm not sure. It would appeat the strategy is to play him not rest him.

In: Welsh and Everitt

Out: Aker (rest) and Tiller

If Picken is suspended, i'd like to see Reid given a run.

[boydogs]

Isn't murphy supposed to be back for round 4?

I would like to see Welsh in as well - two forwards I know so probably can't do it if murphy plays but good lead up players for the big ground. Picken holding his spot is really putting pressure on fringe players.

I would be thinking if resting players at round 4 only do it for injury (e.g. cooney) and maybe for aging midfielders (e.g. eagleton), not forwards johnno and aker

In: Everitt, Murphy (if fit)/Welsh
Out: Tiller (dropped), Picken (if suspended)/Eagleton (rest)

[G-Mo77]

Wel Adam Cooney is out

http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/sport/afl/story/0,26576,25330453-19742,00.html

[Rocket Science]

While he's squarely in the 'fringe player' category I'm otherwise unclear on the calls for Tiller's omission...I'm generally not his biggest fan but would argue he's been pretty solid for us across half-back thus far.

[Before I Die]

While he's squarely in the 'fringe player' category I'm otherwise unclear on the calls for Tiller's omission...I'm generally not his biggest fan but would argue he's been pretty solid for us across half-back thus far.

Because too many posters have favourites and non-favourites. Fortunately the selection committee have a more objective view on who should and who shouldn't be getting a game.

[Scorlibo]

Out: Cooney, Tiller
In: Grant, Everitt

Cooney will miss definitely - and I'm pleased about the surgery, he certainly hasn't looked anywhere near his best. Tiller was solid but made a few mistakes and Everitt's run will be more of a plus on the Subiaco expanse. Grant comes in because I think it's between him and Welsh for the spot and Grant's performance last weekend and his speed at Subiaco put him ahead.

[AndrewP6]

With news that Cooney will miss... I'd give Welsh the nod. I still think Grant's not physically ready. I'd prefer to give the spot to a proven performer. Hope surgery does the trick for Coons, my fear is that will put him back for even more rehab. Obviously it's not that invasive, hope it works well.

[AndrewP6]

While he's squarely in the 'fringe player' category I'm otherwise unclear on the calls for Tiller's omission...I'm generally not his biggest fan but would argue he's been pretty solid for us across half-back thus far.

I do like his work in the back line. Just think he had some howlers in terms of disposal, and as a fringe player, he can't afford to. The likes of Johnson, Akermanis etc can afford a few, but someone who is just in the team can't afford to make those bad errors.

[lemmon]

With news that Cooney will miss... I'd give Welsh the nod. I still think Grant's not physically ready. I'd prefer to give the spot to a proven performer. Hope surgery does the trick for Coons, my fear is that will put him back for even more rehab. Obviously it's not that invasive, hope it works well.

IMO swapping Coons for Welsh would mean Aker and Johno would have to push into the midfield and ideally we'd prefer them closer to goal

[lemmon]

I would prefer for us not to tinker to expansively, if its aint broke dont fix it.
Out
Cooney-Injured
Johno/Aker (depending on who pulls up better)- Give one of the old fellas a week off and keep them fresh

In
Reid/Wood- Fairly even pecking at the moment, whoever has the best week on the track should get the nod
Welsh- Time to bring him back

[bornadog]

Out Cooney, Aker (rest)

In Welsh, Everrit

[Bulldog Revolution]

In: Reid

Out: Cooney

Harbrow for Picken if suspended

[Ozza]

Tiller's 3 or 4 OOB on the full didn't look good. If we're after another tall backman, Everitt may be pushing him.
Welsh has to come in, we are better with him in the side. Hill lacks intensity for 4 quarters - although he seems to be a 4th quarter specialist who has still earned his place in the side.
Harbrow must be close as well.

Agree on Tiller. I'm still not convinced he is up to it. Awful with the football.

Hill was outstanding today. The kid is a freak. He needs to play every week.

[bulldogtragic]

Agree on Tiller. I'm still not convinced he is up to it. Awful with the football.

Hill was outstanding today. The kid is a freak. He needs to play every week.
I'd prefer to see Tiller moved forward.

Lake, Tommy, Everitt, Hargrave, Morris, Gilbee and DFA and others to run off HB. I'd like to see him switched to deep forward to see what he is capable of. From recollection, he played forward in his junior days.

[comrade]

I'd prefer to see Tiller moved forward.

Lake, Tommy, Everitt, Hargrave, Morris, Gilbee and DFA and others to run off HB. I'd like to see him switched to deep forward to see what he is capable of. From recollection, he played forward in his junior days.

Not a bad idea - I can see Stevie T becoming a utility in the mould of the 2005/6 version of Adam Hunter or current day version of Brendan Goddard. Obviously, he’ll most likely never reach those lofty heights, but I think he has an important role to play. His kicking needs work but his decision making and attack at the contest were very good yesterday.

All of a sudden we’re a team of hard nuts:

Hargrave, Williams, Morris, Addison, Tiller, Lake, Picken, Ward, Griffen, Hahn, Minson, Hudson, Cooney, Boyd and Cross are all genuine contested ball winners who enjoy the physical stuff.

[Before I Die]

Tiller's 3 or 4 OOB on the full didn't look good. If we're after another tall backman, Everitt may be pushing him.
Welsh has to come in, we are better with him in the side. Hill lacks intensity for 4 quarters - although he seems to be a 4th quarter specialist who has still earned his place in the side.
Harbrow must be close as well.

Try one, maybe two. Griffen and Minson had one each and I can't remember whether it was Hargrave, Picken or Tiller who had the other. With Hargrave, Gillbee, Lake and Addison we are not lacking run, what we need is a tall who is hard and aggressive at the ball and the man and who gets to a lot of aerial contests to create a spoil. I think Tiller is very important in the team at the moment.

In: Welsh or maybe an extra mid-fielder (Harbrow/Reid)

Out: Cooney (Inj)

[LostDoggy]

Welsh in for Higgins and move HIggins into the midfield for Cooney.

I agree Ward and Williams need as much game time as possible. You can already see the improvement in th both of them already - good times ahead people:D

[The Underdog]

In: Welsh, Wood

Out: Cooney (inj), Akermanis (rested)

Lot of competition for places. I liked Tiller's game yesterday, he seems to work well in that back 6 and is growing in confidence. I think Subi would be a great place to give Easton Wood his first game. Think he'd be good in the open space and it seems as though his form for Willi warrants it. If Welsh is fit he should come in for Aker who will go out if they are serious about resting him throughout the year, although I don't think he'll go quietly. The other variable is what happens with Picken at the MRP today. I think he might be in a little more trouble than many think. His punch was nowhere near the ball and Deledio came off bleeding.

[Rocco Jones]

-I would bring in Harbrow for Cooney.

-I would consider Skipper for Minson.

-Aker: Would love to rest him but with Bobby and Coons out we really need him in. He made comments after the game that there's no way he will sit out this weeks game.

-Apparently Welsh was very quiet in his half against the AIS squad. I don't know how much of that was due to him struggling and how much was it due to it just being a final run for Willy before coming back.

-Grant: I don't know if dominating against U/17's really proves much about whether he is physically ready for AFL. My short term problem with Grant is that he isn't physically ready to play as a KP and his disposal isn't up to standard to play as a flanker/lead up target.

-Picken is an interesting one for me. He has been great against Harvey and Deledio in the last two weeks but I don't think the Eagles have anyone he is suited to. Kerr is more of an inside player and using Picken on him would mean we would have to sacrifice someone in the guts. Either way, Boyd has a great record on Kerr. Priddis is no more near damaging enough to warrant a hard tag and Embley is struggling.

So in short:

IN: Harbrow, Skipper, Everitt (perhaps Welsh)
OUT: Cooney, Minson, Picken (super harsh, back next week)

[The Underdog]

-I would bring in Harbrow for Cooney.

-I would consider Skipper for Minson.

-Aker: Would love to rest him but with Bobby and Coons out we really need him in. He made comments after the game that there's no way he will sit out this weeks game.

-Apparently Welsh was very quiet in his half against the AIS squad. I don't know how much of that was due to him struggling and how much was it due to it just being a final run for Willy before coming back.

-Grant: I don't know if dominating against U/17's really proves much about whether he is physically ready for AFL. My short term problem with Grant is that he isn't physically ready to play as a KP and his disposal isn't up to standard to play as a flanker/lead up target.

-Picken is an interesting one for me. He has been great against Harvey and Deledio in the last two weeks but I don't think the Eagles have anyone he is suited to. Kerr is more of an inside player and using Picken on him would mean we would have to sacrifice someone in the guts. Either way, Boyd has a great record on Kerr. Priddis is no more near damaging enough to warrant a hard tag and Embley is struggling.

So in short:

IN: Harbrow, Skipper, Everitt (perhaps Welsh)
OUT: Cooney, Minson, Picken (super harsh, back next week)

Maybe Welsh just felt wierd and embarrassed that he was twice the age of his opponent.
I'm not sure about sending Skipper into the ruck against Cox, although could potentially follow him around.

[Sedat]

Big danger game this week. We are a better side than West Coast but they will rebound heavily after their meek display against the Saints, and they have vowed to make Subiaco a fortress for them once again. The short preparation coupled with our ardurous first 3 rounds (long travel week 1, wet slog week 2, warm conditions week 3) not to mention the travel load having to go to Perth again, makes for a tricky assignment this week.

Harbrow is a definite inclusion this week, possibly Everitt as well. Exclusions will be dependant on the MRP (in Picken's case) and opposition mach-ups. Tiller might be sacrificed if he hasn't got a decent match-up. Grant is an interesting one. Subiaco would not be a bad place for him to make his debut as he will find plenty of space and can use his pace off the mark to good effect. Plus West Coast have a pretty young defence themselves so Grant won't be playing against hardened gorillas - I'd have him in the mix this week.

[Rocco Jones]

Maybe Welsh just felt wierd and embarrassed that he was twice the age of his opponent.


Yeah definitely. I was thinking of that as part of a 'run' with Willy, perhaps he wasn't sent out there to do much more than get some more run into his legs.



I'm not sure about sending Skipper into the ruck against Cox, although could potentially follow him around.

There's a couple of reasons I would think about doing it:
- 6 day break for WA trip, which would be especially hard for a ruckman (I guess it is at least somewhat countered by Minson spending less TOG than most), I would still plan for Minson to be back the next week.
- Skipper had a decent showing against Cox in 07 and I think he might be better suited to keeping up with Cox. Hudson and Minson don't offer too much variety.
- Skipper has been strong at VFL level, it would be good to both reward him and see if he is actually up to it.

[Dazza]

Grant isn't physically ready as in fitness levels or just size in general? Yesterday we had Hill playing that long bomb option for a good period of the game and he did quite well without having a large strong body. If Welsh is injured I'd say we might be tempted to give Grant a run.

[Rocco Jones]

Tiller might be sacrificed if he hasn't got a decent match-up. Grant is an interesting one.

The Eagles have been playing with a tall forward. Lynch, McKinley, Hansen and Hunter all played forward last week and Josh Kennedy can't get into the side. Subi size probably leads itself to playing an extra tallish type as well.

[Rocco Jones]

Grant isn't physically ready as in fitness levels or just size in general? Yesterday we had Hill playing that long bomb option for a good period of the game and he did quite well without having a large strong body. If Welsh is injured I'd say we might be tempted to give Grant a run.

From what I have seen he isn't physically up to being a KP, lacks physical strength. I don't think his disposal is up to being a flanker/lead-up target atm.

[Sedat]

The Eagles have been playing with a tall forward. Lynch, McKinley, Hansen and Hunter all played forward last week and Josh Kennedy can't get into the side. Subi size probably leads itself to playing an extra tallish type as well.
Might be Ward to get sacrificed then? Probably out of him or Picken, again match-ups will determine. Good healthy competition for places in the line-up ATM.

[Rocco Jones]

Might be Ward to get sacrificed then? Probably out of him or Picken, again match-ups will determine. Good healthy competition for places in the line-up ATM.

Yeah the competition is great. Guys who just make our 22 are playing roles rather than just trying to get enough touches to keep their spot in the side and Eade seems to be using a horses for courses theory to select his last couple of players each week.

As I posted earlier, I really can't see a match up for Picken against the Eagles. He seems the sacrificial lamb type that takes outside, explosive and damaging types out of the game.

[comrade]

As I posted earlier, I really can't see a match up for Picken against the Eagles. He seems the sacrificial lamb type that takes outside, explosive and damaging types out of the game.

Kerr?

Clinton Jones did a ripper job on the weekend.

[Rocco Jones]

Kerr?

Clinton Jones did a ripper job on the weekend.

Just copying and pasting from my earlier post :)

-Picken is an interesting one for me. He has been great against Harvey and Deledio in the last two weeks but I don't think the Eagles have anyone he is suited to. Kerr is more of an inside player and using Picken on him would mean we would have to sacrifice someone in the guts. Either way, Boyd has a great record on Kerr. Priddis is no more near damaging enough to warrant a hard tag and Embley is struggling.

I would be hesitant to place a hard tag on such an inside player as I think it's a massive sacrifice to winning your own ball. Also it's a very different job to stopping guys like Harvey and Deledio. Also, as I mentioned before, Boyd has a good work. Jones' job was great not because he stopped Kerr from getting the ball (what Picken does) but because he did something with it while putting a heap of pressure on Kerr when he got his own touches.

The only inside types I would consider placing such a hard tag on are Ablett and Judd.

[Bulldog Revolution]

I thought Minson was good this week and I cant see Skipper coming in against the Eagles

[Mofra]

Try one, maybe two. Griffen and Minson had one each and I can't remember whether it was Hargrave, Picken or Tiller who had the other.
Not counting the one that was called in too which looked out? Still looked poor - much worse than the couple of beautiful long kicks he set up scoring shots with in the Geelong prelim.


Either way, Cooney out presents a problem. Welsh would be a welcome addition to the side normally, but on the larger ground (and after a short break) we might go for a running type - Harbrow didn't play for Willy so should be fresh for the match too after the short break.

[LostDoggy]

Grant isn't physically ready as in fitness levels or just size in general? Yesterday we had Hill playing that long bomb option for a good period of the game and he did quite well without having a large strong body. If Welsh is injured I'd say we might be tempted to give Grant a run.

You've got to remember, if you put Grant up forward, there's a fella by the name of Darren Glass waiting for him - former All Australian Full Back and captain of the Weagles.
Do you really want to throw the young fella to the wolves?

[Ozza]

You've got to remember, if you put Grant up forward, there's a fella by the name of Darren Glass waiting for him - former All Australian Full Back and captain of the Weagles.
Do you really want to throw the young fella to the wolves?

Glass would always go to Johnno. And if not Johnno - then Hahn.
But in any case - I don't think its that likely Grant will debut just yet.

[Go_Dogs]

I thought Minson was good this week and I cant see Skipper coming in against the Eagles

I agree. Not sure what Will did to get Rocco offside, but thought he was a pretty good contributor on the day.

[Rocco Jones]

I agree. Not sure what Will did to get Rocco offside, but thought he was a pretty good contributor on the day.

Nothing really. I thought he was decent but with the short turnaround, trip to WA and Skippers form in the VFL I thought it was worth considering giving Skip a go for a week.

[Mantis]

Nothing really. I thought he was decent but with the short turnaround, trip to WA and Skippers form in the VFL I thought it was worth considering giving Skip a go for a week.

Form in VFL practice matches should count for little.

[Rocco Jones]

Form in VFL practice matches should count for little.

I agree that VFL form doesn't mean much but by that logic can Skipper ever get a game ahead of Minson? He can only beat the opponents that he is up against. I thought Minson was good at creating a contest against the Tigers during the 3rd quarter but I definitely have doubts about whether he should have a cemented spot in our side.

[LostDoggy]

I'd prefer to see Tiller moved forward.

Lake, Tommy, Everitt, Hargrave, Morris, Gilbee and DFA and others to run off HB. I'd like to see him switched to deep forward to see what he is capable of. From recollection, he played forward in his junior days.

Agree, as far as I am aware, Tiller played most of his footy in the forward line before being picked up by the Dogs?? I did actually meet him when he was first at the club, and I'm sure he confirmed that to me in our conversation. I assumed that his time down back was a learning thing - most forwards have a stint in the backline as it usually helps when they go forward again??

[bulldogtragic]

Agree, as far as I am aware, Tiller played most of his footy in the forward line before being picked up by the Dogs?? I did actually meet him when he was first at the club, and I'm sure he confirmed that to me in our conversation. I assumed that his time down back was a learning thing - most forwards have a stint in the backline as it usually helps when they go forward again??
Move Everitt back where his kicking and run is an asset and put Tiller up forward. I don't see the harm.

Especially this week, make Hunter and Glass accountable and keep them in the backline. And Gia to Wirrapunda.

[bulldogtragic]

I agree that VFL form doesn't mean much but by that logic can Skipper ever get a game ahead of Minson? He can only beat the opponents that he is up against. I thought Minson was good at creating a contest against the Tigers during the 3rd quarter but I definitely have doubts about whether he should have a cemented spot in our side.
True, as well. But by that logic Street should have played the entire year in the AFL as he smashed the competition. My concern re: Street is the same for Skipper. Good VFL player who just can;t seem to play consistent footy in the AFL. He is still a fair bit behind Minson and if Roughy and Cordy are looking the goods come year's end, then i think Skip might be suited to Port Melbourne.

[Before I Die]

Move Everitt back where his kicking and run is an asset and put Tiller up forward. I don't see the harm.

Especially this week, make Hunter and Glass accountable and keep them in the backline. And Gia to Wirrapunda.

The backline doesn't need any more run, but it does need to maintain its grunt. If we were to lose Hargrave, or Gilbee or Hill to injury, then I think Everitt would be the most likely replacement. The only thing Everitt and Tiller have in common is height. Callan and Wood match Tiller for grunt but neither have his height. I believe Tiller is a very important part of our backline at the moment, though I also agree he needs to continue to work on his disposal, much as Addison did two years ago,

[Rocco Jones]

True, as well. But by that logic Street should have played the entire year in the AFL as he smashed the competition. My concern re: Street is the same for Skipper. Good VFL player who just can;t seem to play consistent footy in the AFL. He is still a fair bit behind Minson and if Roughy and Cordy are looking the goods come year's end, then i think Skip might be suited to Port Melbourne.

There is a big difference between giving a player a chance and giving him 'entire year in the AFL'. If he dominates the VFL surely he deserves one more chance. A lot of Bulldogs fans really view Minson through rose coloured glasses, I don't think any AFL listed ruckman is a 'fair bit behind' Will to be frank. He is a decent enough 2nd ruckman imo, nothing more.

[strebla]

Maybe I was at the wrong game yesterday Rocco but I doubt very much if Will will be rested and I also believe he has cemented his place in the side with his work ethic and his bulk

[Mantis]

In: Harbrow

Out: Cooney

Saw that another poster asked why Harbrow missed yesterday, but as yet no reply.... Do we know if it was just a match-up decision?

Depending upon if we rest players I would look at bringing in any of Welsh, Reid or Everitt.

[Rocco Jones]

Maybe I was at the wrong game yesterday Rocco but I doubt very much if Will will be rested and I also believe he has cemented his place in the side with his work ethic and his bulk

Again I thought he was decent but geez he is overrated. He was OK around the ground and average in the ruck and competitive up forward. We just seem to go nuts anytime he does something semi-decent. Is it really that impressive to be able to create a contest a few times when your opponent is a 2nd year player finding his feet (was it actually Rance? Apologies if not). If our side was struggling, the knives would be out for him.

[Rocco Jones]

Just a few stats for the Will Minson has a cemented spot in the side crew.

This year he is averaging 10.6 disposals, 3.3 marks, 1.3 tackles and 7.7 hitouts a game. He has kicked 2 goals and had 1 direct goal assist.

Despite only gathering 32 touches for the year, Minson has had 8 clangers.

I still believe he is our 2nd best ruckman atm, just not totally sold on him having a cemented spot in the side and believe we should at least consider giving Skipper a go if he dominates in the VFL.

[LostDoggy]

I don't think Minnow has a spot 'cemented', but everyone needs to forget what his age is and think of him as a 2nd year project power forward.

I was pretty surprised when he was earmarked for the role early last year -- personally thought that maybe Skipper was more suited, but then Wayde got himself injured and ended that debate. Will is a better second ruckman option when Huddo is resting anyway, and Rocket has always said that up forward, Will's job was to create a contest, and the signs this year are that, a lot more than last year, Will is getting to the right positions and starting to lead to the ball a lot more, getting close to marking a few more in the forwardline. He's also taken a couple of very strong grabs in the last couple of weeks and looked more likely to kick a couple.

After investing more than a year in his development in that position, it would be funny timing to pull the plug on the experiment just as there are signs of improvement.

[LostDoggy]

In: Harbrow

Out: Cooney

Saw that another poster asked why Harbrow missed yesterday, but as yet no reply.... Do we know if it was just a match-up decision?

Depending upon if we rest players I would look at bringing in any of Welsh, Reid or Everitt.

I found this on the afl website. Its our injury list after round 3. Harbrow apparently has a hip complaint.

WESTERN BULLDOGS
Adam Cooney (knee) - 1 week
Jarrod Harbrow (hip) - test
Robert Murphy (knee) - test
Chris Ogle (glandular fever) - test
Paul O’Shea (hip) - indefinite
Jordan Roughead (shoulder) - 3 weeks

[Rocco Jones]

After investing more than a year in his development in that position, it would be funny timing to pull the plug on the experiment just as there are signs of improvement.

Definitely not saying we should pull the plug on the experiment, just that we should consider giving Skipper a game. I don't think he will get in this week nor will I be disappointed if he doesn't. I just believe a lot of our fans gush over Minson because of things that have nothing to do with football. He is like a company with an awesome PR department but an ordinary product.

[Go_Dogs]

Definitely not saying we should pull the plug on the experiment, just that we should consider giving Skipper a game. I don't think he will get in this week nor will I be disappointed if he doesn't. I just believe a lot of our fans gush over Minson because of things that have nothing to do with football. He is like a company with an awesome PR department but an ordinary product.

There were at least two goals from clearances that came about directly because of Will putting the ball to advantage. One down in our F 50, and the other straight after where he whacked it out the middle about 30 metres.

[Rocco Jones]

There were at least two goals from clearances that came about directly because of Will putting the ball to advantage. One down in our F 50, and the other straight after where he whacked it out the middle about 30 metres.

That's great work, but would we gushing so much about it if it were not Will Minson? A great hit out, being able to offer a contest against a 2nd year player and kicking a goal really doesn't constitute that good a game does it?

I think if he wasn't so loveable, more fans would be calling for him to get dropped.

Sorry, it seems like it must be me. I just find it very odd no one else thinks Eade and co. should even consider giving Skipper ahead of him.

[LostDoggy]

Out:
Cooney
Picken - Unlucky, but i cant see him playing come finals time. Good honest back-up player, Boyd will have to play the close checking role.
Tiller

In;
Grant- Get some games into the kid.
Everitt
Reid or Okeefe

[Rocco Jones]

Out:
Picken - Unlucky, but i cant see him playing come finals time. Good honest back-up player,

I can't believe I am saying this in the same thread where I also have him as an out but I definitely see Picken in our finals calculations. The only thing is that there are a few sides where there isn't an ideal match up for him and in these games he can become a bit of a liability. I would definitely have him in if we were playing against the Cats in a final next week.

[Ozza]

Just a few stats for the Will Minson has a cemented spot in the side crew.

This year he is averaging 10.6 disposals, 3.3 marks, 1.3 tackles and 7.7 hitouts a game. He has kicked 2 goals and had 1 direct goal assist.

Despite only gathering 32 touches for the year, Minson has had 8 clangers.

I still believe he is our 2nd best ruckman atm, just not totally sold on him having a cemented spot in the side and believe we should at least consider giving Skipper a go if he dominates in the VFL.

I don't think you can judge Will's impact on stats. At the moment he is very important to the balance of the side. His physicality is very important - much like Mitch Hahn (whose stats are never that flash) you need enough strong bodies in there. We've been a side criticised fo our lack of physicality in the past - and these players are important in addressing that issue.

Aside from this - Wayde Skipper has had plenty of chances. So he would have to 'dominate' the VFL for a fair while before he should be in contention. He was woeful in his one senior hitout last year.

[Rocco Jones]

I don't think you can judge Will's impact on stats. At the moment he is very important to the balance of the side. His physicality is very important - much like Mitch Hahn (whose stats are never that flash) you need enough strong bodies in there. We've been a side criticised fo our lack of physicality in the past - and these players are important in addressing that issue.

Aside from this - Wayde Skipper has had plenty of chances. So he would have to 'dominate' the VFL for a fair while before he should be in contention. He was woeful in his one senior hitout last year.

Fair enough point and as I've said a couple of times in this thread, I definitely have Will as our 2nd ruckman atm and also think he is decent enough in the position. The question I was raising was whether we give Skipper a go when the conditions this week seem to suit it. A 6 day turn around trip to WA would be a good time to rotate/rest Will, Subi is a bigger ground and I think Skip might be better suited in keeping up with him and last time Skip was up against Cox he was one of our better players (that being said about 80% of the game was junk time).

[Mofra]

I found this on the afl website. Its our injury list after round 3. Harbrow apparently has a hip complaint.

WESTERN BULLDOGS
Jarrod Harbrow (hip) - test

Could be an out for this weekend - name him in the side, and he can withdraw late if match-ups dictate.

[Ozza]

Fair enough point and as I've said a couple of times in this thread, I definitely have Will as our 2nd ruckman atm and also think he is decent enough in the position. The question I was raising was whether we give Skipper a go when the conditions this week seem to suit it. A 6 day turn around trip to WA would be a good time to rotate/rest Will, Subi is a bigger ground and I think Skip might be better suited in keeping up with him and last time Skip was up against Cox he was one of our better players (that being said about 80% of the game was junk time).

Its an interesting point - that of playing it horses for courses with match ups - which has been a success this year. Will be interesting to see which way they go with attacking Cox. Will did quite well covering a fair bit of ground on the weekend and seems in good nick running wise.

The way Cox works around the ground though - he hardly ever pushes forward - he is just like an extra midfielder. One way to look at it when Huddo is off would be that one of our mids could actually run around with Cox and Will could head down forward after the ruck contests.

[lemmon]

Personally I think Minson is doing enough to justify his spot in the side but if we were to leave him out this week would it be more beneficial playing Wight in the ruck on the big ground at Subiaco.
IMO he would get more disposals then both Skipper and Minson and is better athletically. He wouldnt be able to play the forward line role but IMO Skipper is too undersized to play as a full time ruckmen in the AFL so in the center the differance between Skipper and Wight wouldnt be massive.

[jitboy]

Out: Cooney
In: Harbrow

Will be interesting to see whether Aker plays, he keeps saying he wants to farewell each ground like Subi and AAMI, but with the coaching staff saying they wanted to manage his matches this year it would seem like a good week to rest him from the long distance travel.

If they do I just hope his form doesn't go off because he looks in great touch atm.

[The Underdog]

Personally I think Minson is doing enough to justify his spot in the side but if we were to leave him out this week would it be more beneficial playing Wight in the ruck on the big ground at Subiaco.
IMO he would get more disposals then both Skipper and Minson and is better athletically. He wouldnt be able to play the forward line role but IMO Skipper is too undersized to play as a full time ruckmen in the AFL so in the center the differance between Skipper and Wight wouldnt be massive.

The difference is that Skipper is an undersized ruckman while Wight despite the fact that he is 200cm is not a ruckman's big toe. Skipper is also vastly stronger in a contest. I don't agree that Wight'd get more disposals than Skipper or Minson and based on reports from the VFL his form doesn't warrant it in the slightest. I'd think a fit Roughead would be ahead of Wight in the ruck stakes.

[mighty_west]

I thought last week would have been perfect to blood young Grant, against a young backline and struggling side, especially with Murph & Welsh still out.

He could get a call up this week on the open spaces at Subi as a leading forward, will have plenty of space to move and once again, against a lower side, Glass will most likely pick up Johnno.

So for me, this week i'd go for:

In : Grant, Everitt
Out : Cooney, Tiller

I'm not too sure if they have too many dangerous forwards, so the rebound from Everitt could work in our favour, Tiller may not have a match up, plus he turned the ball over [out of bounds] too much against the Tigers.

[strebla]

Personally I think Minson is doing enough to justify his spot in the side but if we were to leave him out this week would it be more beneficial playing Wight in the ruck on the big ground at Subiaco.
IMO he would get more disposals then both Skipper and Minson and is better athletically. He wouldnt be able to play the forward line role but IMO Skipper is too undersized to play as a full time ruckmen in the AFL so in the center the differance between Skipper and Wight wouldnt be massive.

I have been Cams biggest supporter but I doubt we will see him again unless his use of the ball greatly increases or we have a horrible horrible run with injuries along with Skipper just looking like a Willy player for mine.

[The Coon Dog]

Skipper just looking like a Willy player for mine.
Speaking from experience? ;)

[strebla]

Speaking from experience? ;)

Do i look like a pom Coon Dog hahahaha

[Mofra]

Little snippet on the news - Harbrow seemed to be running fine.

I'm expecting him to play; two weeks off and he hasn't played poorly when he's been in.

[LostDoggy]

cooney out in welsh or harbrow in

tiller out everitt in

rest aker and bring grant in

id take over reid aswell

[LostDoggy]

i dont think grant will come in and he is still a while away, many people on this site are praying for him to come in every week.

if you want to be a top side you have to earn your spot and sorry but 2 good games in prctise matehes againts VFL side does not warrant seelction, where as over 10 years of solid AFL football will have welsh in front.

If grant is good he will play in time and push someone out

[azabob]

There seems to be no love for Tiller, and heaps for Everitt and Im unsure why?

To me Tiller is more solid and reliable than Everitt. At this stage I'd prefer Tiller than Everitt.

[Dazza]

I'd prefer Tiller as a defender every day of the week. I don't think the backline is a good spot for Everitt. Would like him on a wing maybe.

[LostDoggy]

im sure welsh or grant will come in and either harbrow reid or wood will take cooney spot depending on match ups everitt could come in for tiller

[Dazza]

With Welsh possibly injured it may just be Grants time to shine.

[LostDoggy]

In: Harbrow (Tiller)
Out: Cooney (Everitt)

Maybe replace Tiller for Everitt. The big oval should be good for Everitt. I prefer his run and carry over Tiller's. But Tiller has been going well so if they don't do that change that would be fine.

No need to rest Aker. It has been 3 weeks. And he no longer plays on the ball. I think it is silly to rest him so early. Would we do it every 3 weeks or just for all interstate trips? I'd only rest him if he has niggles or isn't 100%.

[LostDoggy]

I'd prefer Tiller as a defender every day of the week. I don't think the backline is a good spot for Everitt. Would like him on a wing maybe.

Agree with this actually -- interesting that Rocket tends to bring players in through the backline before shipping them off to some other part of the ground. Teaching them a defensive aspect of the game perhaps? Most draftees, being the cream of the crop wherever they've previously played, would have all the attacking chops in the world (having likely played forward or mid most of their junior lives).. I think I heard Darc recently commenting on a rarity of a gun AIS player who's played all his junior career in the backline (thus a ready made backman).

Someone like Everitt looks a natural attacking player though, doesn't he? Just doesn't seem to have the requisite steeliness of resolve you need down back, although Hargrave did learn it...

[Mofra]

I'd prefer Tiller as a defender every day of the week. I don't think the backline is a good spot for Everitt. Would like him on a wing maybe.
Tiller is more accountable, so in terms of backline Tiller is in front of Everitt.

Everitt would in general have better disposal, but only when is is showing the confidence to take the first option. I'd let him build confidence for a few more weeks with solid VFL form first.

[GVGjr]

WEST COAST v WESTERN BULLDOGS
West Coast
B: Adam Hunter, Darren Glass, Mark Nicoski
HB: Shannon Hurn, Eric Mackenzie, Brett Jones
C: Adam Selwood, Matt Priddis, Matt Rosa
HF: Andrew Embley, Ashley Hansen, Brent Staker
F: Mark LeCras, Quinten Lynch, David Wirrpanda
Foll: Dean Cox, Daniel Kerr, Tyson Stenglein
I/C (from): Mitch Brown, Ryan Davis, Brad Ebert, Chad Fletcher, Will Schofield, Chris Masten, Ben McKinley

In: Staker, Wirrpanda, Schofield
Out: -

Western Bulldogs
B: Dylan Addison, Brian Lake, Dale Morris
HB: Lindsay Gilbee, Tom Williams, Ryan Hargrave
C: Liam Picken, Matthew Boyd, Nathan Eagleton
HF: Shaun Higgins, Mitch Hahn, Brad Johnson
F: Josh Hill, Will Minson, Jason Akermanis
Foll: Ben Hudson, Daniel Cross, Ryan Griffen
I/C (from): Andrejs Everitt, Daniel Giansiracusa, Jarrad Grant, Jarrod Harbrow, Sam Reid, Stephen Tiller, Callan Ward

In: Everitt, Grant, Harbrow, Reid
Out: Adam Cooney (knee)

New: Jarrad Grant (Dandenong Stingrays)

Every week so far we have had a player mysteriously drop out so I wonder who it will be this week?

So far it's been Murphy, Callan and Harbrow so I wouldn't mind betting it's either Eagleton or Akermanis.

[comrade]

Every week so far we have had a player mysteriously drop out so I wonder who it will be this week?

So far it's been Murphy, Callan and Harbrow so I wouldn't mind betting it's either Eagleton or Akermanis.

If that's the case then would you expect Grant to play, and one of Harbrow, Reid or Everitt?

[bulldogtragic]

If that's the case then would you expect Grant to play, and one of Harbrow, Reid or Everitt?
If Aker needed a rest, play Reid for him and add Everitt (for Cooney) and play him or Tiller forward.

[GVGjr]

If that's the case then would you expect Grant to play, and one of Harbrow, Reid or Everitt?

Probably Harbrow and Grant.

[Mofra]

If Aker needed a rest, play Reid for him
Reid is the least like Aker out of the I/C bench

[The Doctor]

WEST COAST v WESTERN BULLDOGS
West Coast
B: Adam Hunter, Darren Glass, Mark Nicoski
HB: Shannon Hurn, Eric Mackenzie, Brett Jones
C: Adam Selwood, Matt Priddis, Matt Rosa
HF: Andrew Embley, Ashley Hansen, Brent Staker
F: Mark LeCras, Quinten Lynch, David Wirrpanda
Foll: Dean Cox, Daniel Kerr, Tyson Stenglein
I/C (from): Mitch Brown, Ryan Davis, Brad Ebert, Chad Fletcher, Will Schofield, Chris Masten, Ben McKinley

In: Staker, Wirrpanda, Schofield
Out: -

Western Bulldogs
B: Dylan Addison, Brian Lake, Dale Morris
HB: Lindsay Gilbee, Tom Williams, Ryan Hargrave
C: Liam Picken, Matthew Boyd, Nathan Eagleton
HF: Shaun Higgins, Mitch Hahn, Brad Johnson
F: Josh Hill, Will Minson, Jason Akermanis
Foll: Ben Hudson, Daniel Cross, Ryan Griffen
I/C (from): Andrejs Everitt, Daniel Giansiracusa, Jarrad Grant, Jarrod Harbrow, Sam Reid, Stephen Tiller, Callan Ward

In: Everitt, Grant, Harbrow, Reid
Out: Adam Cooney (knee)

New: Jarrad Grant (Dandenong Stingrays)

Every week so far we have had a player mysteriously drop out so I wonder who it will be this week?

So far it's been Murphy, Callan and Harbrow so I wouldn't mind betting it's either Eagleton or Akermanis.


If it were up to me I would go with Everitt to replace Cooney. This means Gilbee goes to midfield and Everitt to defence.

I would then have Harbrow come in for Tiller to allow more run from the bak half of the wide open spaces of Subiaco

[LostDoggy]

Assuming Eade is not playing games (dangerous assumption) we have 6 names for 3 spots as Gia would be an automatic selection. Tiller and Everitt as utility talls, Harbrow, Ward, and Reid as runners and Grant as a leading forward.

So the question is really one of mix, do we play a bench with two talls and two runners, or one tall and three runners?

In the case of Scenario 1 I would suggest we play Everitt and Tiller. Everitt as a tall runner and marking option through the middle lining up on a flank or on the wing and Tiller as a swingman either loose in defence or as a lead up forward. In Tiller's first game which was against West Coast in 2007 he played as full forward so it might be interesting to see if two years down the track he can do any better. I would love for us to play Grant but I still think it is too early, especially against a team coached by Worsfold (he was a hitman as a player and I don't think much has changed), he may send someone out to try and break him.

I would sellect Gia and Harbrow as the two runners, Gia needs no explanation; Harbrow has shown the ability to play forward, back and through the middle and based on his versatility and senior experience might get the nod.

In the case of scenario two I would suggest Tiller for the reasons outlined above as well as Gia, Harbrow and (I know I will get shot down for this) Reid.

Why Reid?? I have liked what I have seen of him, he looks dangerous lining up on the half back line or in the middle, he is strong and quick and has pretty good disposal. Playing him on half back might free up Gilbee to play as an outside runner in the middle or up forward.

Of course the reason I will get shot down is why not Ward?? I think that Ward will be a gun, he knows how to get the ball, he is brave and tough and all of those good things but... how many times in the last three weeks has he been run down or blindsided? How many times has he held the ball for just a second too long and then under pressure not found a target in space?? As one poster commented after the Freemantle game it was almost as if he was slow (which I don't think he is), that he doesn't explode as soon as he gets the ball in orer to find that free space. Tough a nut as he is he is not yet strong enough through the core to take the hit and still hit a target ala Boyd, Cross and Cooney.

I am really 50/50 on this call becasue I am not sure if it is better to persist with him in the hope that he can improve on this aspect at AFL level, or if he goes to the twos for a couple of weeks so he can focus on this against lesser opponents.

So that is what I would like to see, however I think Eade will choose Tiller, Gia, Harborw and Ward, with Grant and Reid being put on the Emergency List as an incentive to keep up their form and sending a messager to Everitt that he needs to force his way back into the side it won't just be handed to him.

[bornadog]

Assuming Eade is not playing games (dangerous assumption) we have 6 names for 3 spots as Gia would be an automatic selection. Tiller and Everitt as utility talls, Harbrow, Ward, and Reid as runners and Grant as a leading forward.

So the question is really one of mix, do we play a bench with two talls and two runners, or one tall and three runners?

In the case of Scenario 1 I would suggest we play Everitt and Tiller. Everitt as a tall runner and marking option through the middle lining up on a flank or on the wing and Tiller as a swingman either loose in defence or as a lead up forward. In Tiller's first game which was against West Coast in 2007 he played as full forward so it might be interesting to see if two years down the track he can do any better. I would love for us to play Grant but I still think it is too early, especially against a team coached by Worsfold (he was a hitman as a player and I don't think much has changed), he may send someone out to try and break him.

I would sellect Gia and Harbrow as the two runners, Gia needs no explanation; Harbrow has shown the ability to play forward, back and through the middle and based on his versatility and senior experience might get the nod.

In the case of scenario two I would suggest Tiller for the reasons outlined above as well as Gia, Harbrow and (I know I will get shot down for this) Reid.

Why Reid?? I have liked what I have seen of him, he looks dangerous lining up on the half back line or in the middle, he is strong and quick and has pretty good disposal. Playing him on half back might free up Gilbee to play as an outside runner in the middle or up forward.

Of course the reason I will get shot down is why not Ward?? I think that Ward will be a gun, he knows how to get the ball, he is brave and tough and all of those good things but... how many times in the last three weeks has he been run down or blindsided? How many times has he held the ball for just a second too long and then under pressure not found a target in space?? As one poster commented after the Freemantle game it was almost as if he was slow (which I don't think he is), that he doesn't explode as soon as he gets the ball in orer to find that free space. Tough a nut as he is he is not yet strong enough through the core to take the hit and still hit a target ala Boyd, Cross and Cooney.

I am really 50/50 on this call becasue I am not sure if it is better to persist with him in the hope that he can improve on this aspect at AFL level, or if he goes to the twos for a couple of weeks so he can focus on this against lesser opponents.

So that is what I would like to see, however I think Eade will choose Tiller, Gia, Harborw and Ward, with Grant and Reid being put on the Emergency List as an incentive to keep up their form and sending a messager to Everitt that he needs to force his way back into the side it won't just be handed to him.

I tend to agree with most of what you said. Ward did have an ordinary game last week and only picked up 13 possessions, however, I think Everitt will come in for Cooney.

[Scorlibo]

Giansiracusa, Everitt, Harbrow, Ward, Reid, Grant and Tiller

Gia will play.

One of Everitt and Tiller will play - probably Everitt with his run on Subi - he played against Freo.

That leaves two of Harbrow, Ward, Reid and Grant.

Ward has played all the games but could also be due for a rest at Willi.

Reid would be the best replacement for Cooney, with his strength and speed.

Harbrow is coming off an injury concern and is most effective in tight situations - which wouldn't be the case at Subi.

Grant is in good form at Willi and could use the expanses of Subi for his smart leading to space.

In the end, I think it willl turn out to be a bench of:

Everitt, Giansiracusa, Harbrow, Reid.

Harbrow picked for his ability to rotate through the middle.

[The Coon Dog]

One of Everitt and Tiller will play - probably Everitt with his run on Subi - he played against Freo.

So did Tiller.

[LostDoggy]

The difference is that Skipper is an undersized ruckman while Wight despite the fact that he is 200cm is not a ruckman's big toe. Skipper is also vastly stronger in a contest. I don't agree that Wight'd get more disposals than Skipper or Minson and based on reports from the VFL his form doesn't warrant it in the slightest. I'd think a fit Roughead would be ahead of Wight in the ruck stakes.


Personally I think Minson is doing enough to justify his spot in the side but if we were to leave him out this week would it be more beneficial playing Wight in the ruck on the big ground at Subiaco.
IMO he would get more disposals then both Skipper and Minson and is better athletically. He wouldnt be able to play the forward line role but IMO Skipper is too undersized to play as a full time ruckmen in the AFL so in the center the differance between Skipper and Wight wouldnt be massive.

I hate to be negative but my least favourite bulldog players, the most inept from my point of view, for the last several years have been Rawlings, Power and Wight. I really dont expect Wight to feature again unless something drastic happens to his skills and decisions, all he has going is hieght and he has shown courage on occasion.

I still think this is a good opportunity to try Grant as long as the rest of the bench was picked on experience.

[ledge]

As much as a lot of posters dont think Wight is up to it, not a bad thing if we can only say one player in our whole list isnt up to it.
We do have a great list that most teams would envy.
Wight to me is now only filling a spot as no doubt Grant, Everitt, Roughead etc will certainly be above him in the near future if not already.

[comrade]

As much as a lot of posters dont think Wight is up to it, not a bad thing if we can only say one player in our whole list isnt up to it.
We do have a great list that most teams would envy.
Wight to me is now only filling a spot as no doubt Grant, Everitt, Roughead etc will certainly be above him in the near future if not already.

As far as ranking our list IMO:

Grant, Everitt, Tiller, Roughead and Cordy are all well ahead of Wight now, with Boumann not far away and hopefully Liam Jones progressing as well.

[bulldogtragic]

As far as ranking our list IMO:

Grant, Everitt, Tiller, Roughead and Cordy are all well ahead of Wight now, with Boumann not far away and hopefully Liam Jones progressing as well.
Shame we offered two years.

[Happy Days]

Teams are in:

In: Harbrow
Out: Cooney

Shame not to see Grant get a gig but Harbrow makes the most sense.

[bulldogtragic]

Teams are in:

In: Harbrow
Out: Cooney

Shame not to see Grant get a gig but Harbrow makes the most sense.
Andreajs must be chomping at the bit, i hope he plays an absolute blinder.

Hopefully Grant and Reid have got the 'sniff' now and also up their performances.

[Mantis]

Probably the obvious change.

Going on previous form there might be another change. I guess we will know more once Williamstown have played.

[GVGjr]

Teams are in:

In: Harbrow
Out: Cooney

Shame not to see Grant get a gig but Harbrow makes the most sense.

It's only an interim list as far as I am concerned. If Eade really wants to pull a surprise, then he should just go into the game as selected. I think Reid is firming for a spot in the 22.

[boydogs]

I like the balance of our defense with Everitt in - including one on the bench two tall defenders (lake and williams), two flexible mid sized defenders (morris and hargrave), two smalls (addison/gilbee/callan) and an attacking defender - Everitt. I have heard Eade say before he wants our defenders to play on more/quicker (e.g. brian lake), basketball style fast breaks are becoming common to beat the flood/zone.

I see Everitt as our emerging Tadhg Kennelly - break the lines out of the defense and set up an offensive play. This is not Tiller's style, and with Lake, Williams, Morris and Hargrave automatic backline selections (Addison and Gilbee are automatic as well but can play in other positions) I would prefer to add a player of Everitt's attacking nature

Griffen did play the bust out of defense role for us before moving to the midfield, and now especially with the penetration of Gilbee further up the ground I think it is something we need to introduce again

What does everyone else think, and what may Eade be thinking?

[LostDoggy]

I hope there is a change with Everitt in for Harbrow, which can free up Gilbee to spend time in the middle..

Who do we need to worry about in WC fwd line? LeCras, McKinley, Lynch & Hansen? Are any of those players considered dangerous? McKinley hasnt found form in his last 2 games so maybe he's due for a big one..who will take him?

[Happy Days]

McKinley hasnt found form in his last 2 games so maybe he's due for a big one..who will take him?

He's been dropped for this week.

[Rocket Science]

Who do we need to worry about in WC fwd line? LeCras, McKinley, Lynch & Hansen? Are any of those players considered dangerous?

As mentioned, McKinley's been very ordinary in the early going and dropped as a result, but of the remaining trio we need to keep an eye on Lecras and Lynch.

The former's been in good recent nick, coming off bags of 3, 3 and 6 goals, good for 2nd in the AFL to date...while Lynch tends to play a little further upfield these days as opposed to a purely key forward post, but is a confidence player and can be hard to counter if he gets on a roll.

Hansen's been a non-factor of late...solid complimentary player when surrounded by quality, but just not up to playing a key role on a more talent-thin outfit.

Forward-wise, Mitch Brown could be a smoky for them and pose an interesting quandry for us should they send all three of Lynch, Hansen and Brown into attack at the same time, provided our mids give their mids enough time and space to feed them adequately, which I'm not expecting.

It's fair enough to muse about the quality or lack thereof of the Eagles' midfield, but Cox and Lynch, aside from sharing ruck duties, basically function as extra mids, and could rack up a few touches versus Hudson/Minson who aren't known for their shadowing abilities.

[Remi Moses]

Gee mckinley has been a major dissapointment,looked a million bucks 12 months ago and has been in the system for a few years now.Pretty much as expected at the selection table

[LostDoggy]

Teams are in:

In: Harbrow
Out: Cooney

Shame not to see Grant get a gig but Harbrow makes the most sense.

As expected...

Any omissions in the WIlli line up would be interesting. Hopefully a good run for Murph.

[LostDoggy]

Gee mckinley has been a major dissapointment,looked a million bucks 12 months ago and has been in the system for a few years now.Pretty much as expected at the selection table

Bit harsh. Par for the course really, young talented kid comes on to the scene and plays well. Then he attracts more attention from opposition coaches and players and subsequently has a bad trot. Just needs to get fitter and work harder, bit like our Everitt.

[ledge]

Ins Campbell, Bond
Outs Wallace, Harvey

[Happy Days]

It's only an interim list as far as I am concerned. If Eade really wants to pull a surprise, then he should just go into the game as selected. I think Reid is firming for a spot in the 22.

Suprise!

No late changes.