Daniel Cross

[Sedat]

Before anyone starts, I feel like shooting Bambi even starting this thread, but I feel it is one worth discussing.

I'll start by saying that Crossy has been a mighty warrior for our club for the last 7-8 years and has been one of my favourite players since the early '00's. But at the moment he is currently playing a role that is simply not helping the team. His once great asset, his clean hands in traffic, have let him down badly this season. As a result, his stoppage work has suffered, and his work in distributing the ball (by both hand and foot) has been below par all season - more often than not he places the next link in the chain under increased pressure through either poor decision-making or poor basic skill execution.

Boyd has clearly taken over as our key inside midfield weapon (and his hands in close traffic are just about the best in the AFL), closely followed by both Coons and Griff (who can both win their own ball and have gone up a notch this season). When 100% fit we then have Picken and Ward providing the additional hard bodies in the midfield, with Picken also doubling as our chief run-with option. There is also the younger version of Cross, Sam Reid, waiting to have a clear run in the senior and will be 100% match fit within a month. So where does all this leave Crossy? I'm personally very worried that he is losing relevance in the modern game, and opposition teams are actually structuring up to ensure that he gets his hands on the ball, focusing their defensive structures on the next option further upfield in the hope/expectation that Crossy will choose a poor option/not distribute the ball cleanly.

There are some options available to him. Brady Rawlings has been a revelation in the back pocket this season and possesses similar attributes to Cross. He's not that quick off the mark either but seems to have been effective in this role. Might be a possibility for Cross, and could release the likes of Gilbee, Harbrow and/or Hargy further upfield. A possible downside is that we add someone with questionable disposal skills into an area that needs precision disposal. The other option (and one that Cross would probably be more suited to) is the run-with role, and with Picken still 6-8 weeks away it is an immediate opportunity and pressing need in the team. None of Clinton Jones, Kane Cornes, Kieran Jack, Brett Kirk or Cameron Ling would ever challenge the back markers at the Stawell Gift. And Crossy's legendary running ability is a precious asset in this role. His ability to ready the play is still above average and would be well suited to such a role (provided he doesn't go ball-hunting and remembers that stopping his direct opponent is his no.1 role). He could also release Picken to become a defensive forward or a negating defender, both roles that Picken is capable of adopting.

I'm really interested to hear other poster's thoughts on Crossy. I just can't see him continuing in his role of inside midfielder and actually providing any real value to the team performing this role.

[LostDoggy]

Would hate to lose Cross, inside mids are gold and his hands in traffic are at least as good as Boyds. He is also a very good courageous mark and a great 3rd man up option. His kicking has its limitations but he has learned to work around them

[LostDoggy]

Good thread, Sedat. I really don't see this as a 'bagging a player' thread although I'm sure many will see it as such, more the type of questions analysts and coaches are asking themselves all the time to maximise the output and balance of their list.

Will be interesting to see the reactions and thoughts of others.

For what it's worth, I think Daniel has taken on the coaches' instructions of 'kicking more' to the detriment of his 'A' game. He often seems in two minds, and by the time he goes to kick (often when a simple handball may be a better option) he is usually under pressure. It doesn't help that he has a very long wind-up when trying to hoof it a long way, which allows opposition players to close him down. He is probably a victim of being TOO obedient (probably as an over-reaction to Rocket's frustrations with his previous reluctance to kick) -- once he regains the balance between following instructions and his instincts, he will again be a very valuable member of the midfield rotation. I just hope he does this sooner rather than later.

[Mofra]

Would hate to lose Cross, inside mids are gold and his hands in traffic are at least as good as Boyds. He is also a very good courageous mark and a great 3rd man up option. His kicking has its limitations but he has learned to work around them
I can't agree with the hands in traffic assessment - he was ok previously, but his disposal by hand has been woeful this year, and the game against the Saints was probably the worst I've seen his disposal for some time. I wouldn't agree that inside mids are gold - we have quite a few of them that is evident when the injury list is a bit shorter.

His ability overhead hasn't deserted him - he's a brilliant mark in traffic for his size, but if his handballing is a little off we struggle as his kicking has never been a strong point and the time it takes him to get boot to ball (when he does kick it) is far too long.

I think he is actually coming under some pressure to hold his spot.
Reid has earmarked a round 9 return, Ward & Picken will be knocking the door down for selection soon, Moles is fringe now, Wood gives us some run that has been lacking this season, and I haven't shut up shop on Hill's season either.

[EasternWest]

Before anyone starts, I feel like shooting Bambi even starting this thread, but I feel it is one worth discussing.

Nothing wrong with raising a valid issue for discussion. Anyone who gets into you for your fair appraisal and comments is out of line.

By the way, you're insane and should be kicked off this board for such heresy.:D

Crossy just seems down in confidence to me. It's like he's hearing the knockers who for so long have insisted that he can't kick and now believes it himself. I for one think (and I think that you may have said the same thing Sedat, though I stand to be corrected) that he's nowhere near as bad a kick as many say (though he's not terrific either) and he just needs to back himself more to grow some confidence.

I hope!

[Mantis]

This type of thread (and this one is a good one) has been around for quite a while now - the only thing thats changes is which name is thrown up.

What is common is that we are all getting frustrated that the same players make the same mistakes when we are under pressure. Be it Crossy fumbling or handballing to anyone, Gia not backing himself in, Johnson's field kicking letting him down, Gilbee missing the vital goal, Eagleton not getting involved and kicking poorly or even Mitch making a costly skill error..... We are seeing no improvement in the decisions these players make at crucial times or in their skill execution and it's bloody frustrating.

Personally I think it's time these 'senior' players stand up to be counted when we really need them or they move aside for a new breed who might do things a little different and perhaps even better.

[EasternWest]

This type of thread (and this one is a good one) has been around for quite a while now - the only thing thats changes is which name is thrown up.

What is common is that we are all getting frustrated that the same players make the same mistakes when we are under pressure. Be it Crossy fumbling or handballing to anyone, Gia not backing himself in, Johnson's field kicking letting him down, Gilbee missing the vital goal, Eagleton not getting involved and kicking poorly or even Mitch making a costly skill error..... We are seeing no improvement in the decisions these players make at crucial times or in their skill execution and it's bloody frustrating.

Personally I think it's time these 'senior' players stand up to be counted when we really need them or they move aside for a new breed who might do things a little different and perhaps even better.

I've never seen anyone bag Eagle, Mantis. Have you?

Good post, I think you're right. The song changes, but the dance is often the same.

[bornadog]

Crossies hands have been terrible this year and along with his woeful kicking, he needs to either find some form or as Sedat suggested, be moved to a new role, like taking over over Picken's role. He has done this with some success over the years, e.g. against Simon Black, but has been carved up by Lenny Hayes (but who hasn't).

[LostDoggy]

But at the moment he is currently playing a role that is simply not helping the team. His once great asset, his clean hands in traffic, have let him down badly this season. As a result, his stoppage work has suffered, and his work in distributing the ball (by both hand and foot) has been below par all season le of inside midfielder and actually providing any real value to the team performing this role.

Cross has never been a clean handler of the ball hence his removal from centre ball-ups some time ago. Couple this with his failure to distribute cleanly when he does gain possession, he is becoming a problem.

His last two appearance v the Saints has seen him get smashed and the MC must be starting to wonder whether he brings the right stuff to the table in his current possession. Sedat's comparison with Ling as a run-with player is valid as neither possess much in the way of pace but share an enthusiasm for the contest as well as the determination to succeed.

Eagleton, likewise has failed to register in the big games v Geelong and St Kilda and I would prefer to see him at Willy as soon as Ward gets back on deck. He simply cannot hack it against the big guns.

[Sedat]

I can't agree with the hands in traffic assessment - he was ok previously, but his disposal by hand has been woeful this year, and the game against the Saints was probably the worst I've seen his disposal for some time. I wouldn't agree that inside mids are gold - we have quite a few of them that is evident when the injury list is a bit shorter.
Mofra/EJ, I reckon you guys are selling him short - Crossy had close to the best and quickest hands in traffic in the AFL from 2005 to 2008. Unfortunately this once great asset of his has gone sharply downhill in the last 18 months, and he has spent far more time than not double-grabbing and fumbling in the clinches. As for his disposal and decision-making, this has also gone downhill at an alarming rate during this time. Even in our comfortable win over the Crows two weeks, my mate and I noticed him choose 3-4 terrible options by hand that put the handball receiver completely under the pump.

Couldn't agree with Mofra more in relation to the inside midfield options we have at our disposal. This is one area that we have ample cover for in the medium to long term. St Kilda had no hesitation in letting go of a favourite son (Ball) and replacing him in the starting line-up with a younger, cheaper and better version (Armitage). I don't think Crossy has regressed as far as Ball has but he is unquestionably trending backwards in many areas - if he hasn't done so already, I think he'll reach the crossroads and will be forced to redefine his role if he is to survive and (more importantly) add value to the team for the rest of 2010 and beyond.

[Jasper]

I had this very conversation with a friend on the weekend.
Do we need to change the dynamic of our midfield when it appears that the same guys are giving us the same results for 3+ years now.
Awfully close, but no cigar when the whips are cracking.

Our best midfield last year was mid-season when Sam Reid was in there.
He is an easy swap for Eagleton.

Right now I would also prefer to see a young quick guy like Easton Wood over Crossy.
Surely worth putting Harbrow in for some short stints too.
Akermanis at Brisbane made his name in the back pocket and gradually worked his way thru the midfield and ended up a quality forward. I can see a similar career arc forming right there.

[Scorlibo]

I actually think he has had his best start to a season in his career. He is doing all the in and under stuff so efficiently that no one has noticed him, perfect! Hasn't had any standout performances, but that's not his go anyway.

[chef]

I actually think he has had his best start to a season in his career. He is doing all the in and under stuff so efficiently that no one has noticed him, perfect! Hasn't had any standout performances, but that's not his go anyway.

I agree, I thought he's been travelling pretty good too. The only worry I have is he is looking a bit slower this year.

[LostDoggy]

I agree, I thought he's been travelling pretty good too. The only worry I have is he is looking a bit slower this year.

I reckon 50% of our players have looked a bit slower this year.

I think the pace of the game has jumped forward so much that no one expected this.

[chef]

I reckon 50% of our players have looked a bit slower this year.

I think the pace of the game has jumped forward so much that no one expected this.

This is always the worry with older teams.

[AndrewP6]

I don't think he's been that bad. Maybe not career-best, but apart from Griff, who else could we say is? Confidence is a huge thing for some, and once that comes good, things can change. Stick with Crossy, I say.

[Hot_Doggies]

As other posters have mentioned, his confidence is down this year.

I still think with salary cap restraints, Cross is the most 'choppable' senior player.

Sometimes tough decisions need to be made.

(yes i respect Cross as much as the next guy, and sometimes trades/delisting can unsettle a club etc etc)

[boydogs]

This type of thread (and this one is a good one) has been around for quite a while now - the only thing thats changes is which name is thrown up.

What is common is that we are all getting frustrated that the same players make the same mistakes when we are under pressure. Be it Crossy fumbling or handballing to anyone, Gia not backing himself in, Johnson's field kicking letting him down, Gilbee missing the vital goal, Eagleton not getting involved and kicking poorly or even Mitch making a costly skill error..... We are seeing no improvement in the decisions these players make at crucial times or in their skill execution and it's bloody frustrating.

Personally I think it's time these 'senior' players stand up to be counted when we really need them or they move aside for a new breed who might do things a little different and perhaps even better.

Williams getting lost in a marking contest, Griff blazing away to the top of the square, Lake's brain fades, Minson's frees against, Hill's work rate...

At least this year, Minson and Hill have been dropped to work on things. I thought the answer to these issues was to remove the feeling of comfort associated with a guaranteed spot in the side, which now appears to have happened. Players need to know that their par game is not good enough, they need to work on these deficiencies. If they aren't improving, then they don't get a game.

---

Regarding Cross, I would put him in defense. He could also be a tagger if Addison is dropped until Picken gets back. The 2008 QF showed what he could do in this role IMO

Harbrow to the forward line for pace, Gia to the middle to get him involved with his elite ball use, Cross to defense to use his run, marking/spoiling and hardness at the contest

[Mofra]

Regarding Cross, I would put him in defense. He could also be a tagger if Addison is dropped until Picken gets back. The 2008 QF showed what he could do in this role IMO
Addison has outperformed Cross by a considerable margin in the last two weeks, and Cross simply doesn't have the legspeed to tag the quick outside mids the way Picken does.

Cross needs to redevelop himself/his role despite his deficiencies a la Liberatore in the latter half of his career. Cross still has above-average attributes (gut-running, overhead marking) and I don't think there is a harder trainer at Whitten Oval so it can happen.

[Mantis]

Cross needs to redevelop himself/his role despite his deficiencies a la Liberatore in the latter half of his career. Cross still has above-average attributes (gut-running, overhead marking) and I don't think there is a harder trainer at Whitten Oval so it can happen.

I forgave Crossy for not being able to run with the St.Kilda mids (Hayes specifically) at the end of last years PF seeing as though he had both ankles re-constructed shortly after.

*There were no such excuses on Friday night when at the end of the game the Saints mids where running on top of the ground and ours were struggling and with Cross being the fittest of them all he should have been able to run the game out better.


* I say this without being privvy to TOG stats as well as amount of ground covered during the game because for all I know Crossy could have covered 25km for the night and Hayes only 15km.

[LostDoggy]

A very good thread Sedat and plenty considered thought.

I had a similar discussion with a mate at the game on Friday night and we both agreed that we shouldnt have both Cross and Boyd in the same team as we only need one of this type of player.

Yep, have a worker bee in the team but not two.

Crossys delivery lets him down and maybe his value is diminished by Boyds better attributes.

[The Coon Dog]

I had a similar discussion with a mate at the game on Friday night and we both agreed that we shouldnt have both Cross and Boyd in the same team as we only need one of this type of player.

Gee that reminded me of what I've read from Mantis a few times over the years.

[mighty_west]

A very good thread Sedat and plenty considered thought.

I had a similar discussion with a mate at the game on Friday night and we both agreed that we shouldnt have both Cross and Boyd in the same team as we only need one of this type of player.

Yep, have a worker bee in the team but not two.

Crossys delivery lets him down and maybe his value is diminished by Boyds better attributes.

Having Boyd, Picken & Ward out of the side has hurt as big time imo, we have lost that added grunt, there is most definatly room for Boyd & Crossy.

[LostDoggy]

Having Boyd, Picken & Ward out of the side has hurt as big time imo, we have lost that added grunt, there is most definatly room for Boyd & Crossy.

I agree i don't think we realise how much we miss Ward and his toughness and IMO Reid is his perfect replacement but he is out too

[Doc26]

I had a similar discussion with a mate at the game on Friday night and we both agreed that we shouldnt have both Cross and Boyd in the same team as we only need one of this type of player.

Yep, have a worker bee in the team but not two.

Crossys delivery lets him down and maybe his value is diminished by Boyds better attributes.


Gee that reminded me of what I've read from Mantis a few times over the years.

The comparison between the two may have been more reasonable in past seasons but can't see it now. Boydy has moved on to become an elite midfielder and clearance specialist of the AFL more in the ilk of a Dane Swan.

[LostDoggy]

Apart from Harbrow, I think 21 other guys should be taking a good hard look at themselves after Frid's game.
Why get within 30mtrs of goal and then bring it back to the back line?
Just kick the Bloody thing!!!!!!!!!!!!

[divvydan]

I forgave Crossy for not being able to run with the St.Kilda mids (Hayes specifically) at the end of last years PF seeing as though he had both ankles re-constructed shortly after.

*There were no such excuses on Friday night when at the end of the game the Saints mids where running on top of the ground and ours were struggling and with Cross being the fittest of them all he should have been able to run the game out better.


* I say this without being privvy to TOG stats as well as amount of ground covered during the game because for all I know Crossy could have covered 25km for the night and Hayes only 15km.

No way of knowing the km run stat unless you happen to be involved in the football department or perhaps working for Champion Data (or similar), however, the TOG stat that is available from champion data shows Cross had 91% TOG and Hayes had 81% TOG.

[Desipura]

The comparison between the two may have been more reasonable in past seasons but can't see it now. Boydy has moved on to become an elite midfielder and clearance specialist of the AFL more in the ilk of a Dane Swan.
Totally agree again there Doc. Dont think you can compare the 2 as Boyd is more of a run and carry whereas Cross is in the Luke Ball mould. Seems to be working well at Collingwood.

[cinder]

I have actually always thought of Cross as being over-rated, especially when he was being touted as a Scott West replacement. There are some similarities to his role but he simply doesn't execute it anywhere near as well as Scotty West did. Cross is a good player and valuable to the team, but he is far too inconsistent and seems to let us down just as many times as he helps us out. Harsh, but true. Racking up the possessions doesn't cut it unless the possessions are effective.

[craigsahibee]

Crossy has plenty of credits in the bank but he is slowly spending them.

Agree with previous comments regarding Sam Reid as his replacement.

Hopefully Ward, Picken, Reid and Cross are all soon fit at the same time and the word if can be deducted from a lot of this discussion.

[Bumper Bulldogs]

I hate to add fuel to the fire and shaft the one player I love and believe represents us the most out of the playing list (For dedication)

Cross is a gun and if you watch him closely he blocks and chops out, for his better "skilled" players around him. I know he will deliver once again and I think he has kicked more and kicked better this year than others years gone past.

I'm sure he knows and understands that his days are numbered but he has got the rest of the season left in him, as for next year depending on the development of the young guys coming through he may be just list clogging and we may be better long term to blood the kids.

I would have Eagle, Aker and Mitch ahead of him at this point for retiring.

[LostDoggy]

I suggest some of you might check out the stats for Cross, from PRO STATS. For last week, he won -

11 contested possessions (3rd highest for the Dogs), but well under some players from other clubs.
10 tackles (the most).
7 1%ers (equal 2nd highest behind Gilbee's 8)
4 clearances (3rd highest),
7 first possessions (the most)

27 disposals (5th highest, 22 handballs),

Some of these stats are the important ones that coaches value. Of course he made mistakes, but you would think by some of the commentary here that he contributed very little.

Maybe the load is being spread around more so he doesn't appear to be as noticeable as previously. I can't tell if he is doing what the coach wants, but these stats suggest he is still doing the hard stuff.

His stats for the previous week were just as good.

[LostDoggy]

I'm with you Metal, can't help but be a bit mystified with the criticism being dished out to Cross. There are much bigger passengers in the team at present.


I suggest some of you might check out the stats for Cross, from PRO STATS. For last week, he won -

11 contested possessions (3rd highest for the Dogs), but well under some players from other clubs.
10 tackles (the most).
7 1%ers (equal 2nd highest behind Gilbee's 8)
4 clearances (3rd highest),
7 first possessions (the most)

27 disposals (5th highest, 22 handballs),

Some of these stats are the important ones that coaches value. Of course he made mistakes, but you would think by some of the commentary here that he contributed very little.

Maybe the load is being spread around more so he doesn't appear to be as noticeable as previously. I can't tell if he is doing what the coach wants, but these stats suggest he is still doing the hard stuff.

His stats for the previous week were just as good.

[GVGjr]

I suggest some of you might check out the stats for Cross, from PRO STATS. For last week, he won -

11 contested possessions (3rd highest for the Dogs), but well under some players from other clubs.
10 tackles (the most).
7 1%ers (equal 2nd highest behind Gilbee's 8)
4 clearances (3rd highest),
7 first possessions (the most)

27 disposals (5th highest, 22 handballs),

Some of these stats are the important ones that coaches value. Of course he made mistakes, but you would think by some of the commentary here that he contributed very little.

Maybe the load is being spread around more so he doesn't appear to be as noticeable as previously. I can't tell if he is doing what the coach wants, but these stats suggest he is still doing the hard stuff.

His stats for the previous week were just as good.

I get why some people can get frustrated with Cross mainly because of his handball first mentality and his kicking skills not being anywhere near where they should be but his consistency is just terrific.

[Rocco Jones]

I'm with GVG. He does have his weaknesses but I think he more than makes up for them overall. However I don't have him in that gun category anymore, but think he can get back up there will a tweak or two to his game.

I get his reluctance to kick but there are times were turning around, looking for an obvious handball and putting a team mate under pressure are is probably going to be worse than his kicking. I think his kicking isn't great but it's not as bad as he seems to think it is (he seems to think he will miss his boot).

I would also like him to be more close checking and sacrifice his own game/getting the ball. He more than knows his limitations when he has the ball, perhaps he should use that when he hasn't got the ball. He is a natural ball winner, so he will still get enough of it. He is tough and has a great tank. The Saints have Jones, the Cats Ling and I would like to see Crossy as more of an inside tag.

[BulldogBelle]

I am in the camp that believes Cross has had a good start to the year without being brilliant. I believe his blocking,chopping and tackling in close have been excellent, yet as many have pointed out, his hands have been uncharacteristically fumbly (is that a word?) this year.

One thing you can be certain of with Crossy is that he knows his limitations and will play a role as required for the good of the team. I think this season he has been instructed to kick more and a clanger seems to stick in the mind of supporters alot more than an effective disposal.

The other thing we aren't sure about is whether the ankle reconstructions have made the joints tighter and have affected the spring he got out of them, which may also affect his confidence.

[Go_Dogs]

I get his reluctance to kick but there are times were turning around, looking for an obvious handball and putting a team mate under pressure are is probably going to be worse than his kicking. I think his kicking isn't great but it's not as bad as he seems to think it is (he seems to think he will miss his boot).

Tend to agree with this, and this is sort of why I think he's had a bit of a down year. His handballing has been fairly average as far as awareness goes, and as others zone off him expecting a handball, and hone in on the closest target, he has (on quite a few occasions) ended up handballing to someone about to get run down.

Sometimes a quick 30m kick, of the Cross variety, will be better as he can often weight a ball to a good spot, and should be able to put the ball in front of someone by foot and they can gobble it up.

It's an option I'd like to see him take more often, especially when the handball targets are shut down, but I guess that's an awareness issue.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Tend to agree with this, and this is sort of why I think he's had a bit of a down year. His handballing has been fairly average as far as awareness goes, and as others zone off him expecting a handball, and hone in on the closest target, he has (on quite a few occasions) ended up handballing to someone about to get run down.

Sometimes a quick 30m kick, of the Cross variety, will be better as he can often weight a ball to a good spot, and should be able to put the ball in front of someone by foot and they can gobble it up.

It's an option I'd like to see him take more often, especially when the handball targets are shut down, but I guess that's an awareness issue.

Definitely seems to be his biggest problem so far this season. Hopefully he's working on ways to eliminate the errors as they've been very costly.

His kicking over 30m is generally pretty good IMO. Robert Harvey made a legacy out of those 20-30m passes and I think Cross could too considering how hard he runs and how much of the ball he consistently finds.

Agree with others he needs to play tighter. Our midfield lacks a defensive edge and he's a type that could change that around.

[Desipura]

thats attempted 30 metre pass on his left foot in the last qtr reminded me why he handballs more than he kicks. Sometimes you need to work with your strengths hence why he generally handballs more than he kicks.

[Sedat]

Big props to Crossy for his game tonight. Conditions certainly helped him but his ability to nullify Melbourne midfield's forward thrusts by cleverly positioning himself defensive side of the play was very important. He also distributed by hand and foot a lot better than previous weeks. Was in our best 5 players tonight (he just missed out on votes from me).

[GVGjr]

Big props to Crossy for his game tonight. Conditions certainly helped him but his ability to nullify Melbourne midfield's forward thrusts by cleverly positioning himself defensive side of the play was very important. He also distributed by hand and foot a lot better than previous weeks. Was in our best 5 players tonight (he just missed out on votes from me).

That's exactly how I saw his performance last night.

[EasternWest]

Interestingly since Sedat shot Bambi :), Cross has been consistently named in our best by WOOFers. Thoughts?

[Murphy'sLore]

Are you lurking out there, Crossy??? Hm?

Don't worry, this week we love you...

[Scraggers]

Bump

Just announced his retirement !!

[EasternWest]

Bump

Just announced his retirement !!

Legend. Never put a foot wrong. Can't wait to see him back where he belongs.

[always right]

Stellar career. An all time fave.

[LostDoggy]

Get him on the coaching or conditioning staff now.

A great Bulldog who can teach our younger guys plenty about getting every ounce out of yourself.

[The Pie Man]

Read on the AFL site that Melbourne are offering him a coaching role - saddens me to think he might become more a Melbourne person.

Stuck on 249 games too (after this round)

For all your efforts while at the Dogs, thanks Crossy

[Doc26]

Read on the AFL site that Melbourne are offering him a coaching role - saddens me to think he might become more a Melbourne person.

Stuck on 249 games too (after this round)

For all your efforts while at the Dogs, thanks Crossy

We need to get him out of that place, it's the least we can do for the great service he gave us.

Hopefully we can find a place for him in our football department asap so that he can be a tangible part of our run.

[chef]

One of my favorite ever Doggies.

Thanks for the memories Crossy.

[LostDoggy]

This is worth a look. Roos even mentions MBoyd & Murph.

http://www.melbournefc.com.au/news/2015-09-02/cross-career-comes-to-an-end

[strebla]

Well done Crossy good luck Sunday mate.��

[Twodogs]

Congrats on a great career Crossy. One of my favourite ever bulldogs.

Time to come home mate.

[1eyedog]

VFL Captain for 2016 let it be so!

[Greystache]

The game loses another salt of the Earth honest professional this year. First James Hird, now Daniel Cross

[LostDoggy]

VFL Captain for 2016 let it be so!

Brilliant call. What better role model for the young guys learning the ropes.

Cross on one flank and Goodes on the other steering the ship.

[G-Mo77]

VFL Captain for 2016 let it be so!

Would love him to be involved with the club in some way. Hope he finds a way back here soon.

[bornadog]

The game loses another salt of the Earth honest professional this year. First James Hird, now Daniel Cross

Sounds like you are having a go at him.

[bornadog]

Good luck to Cross, pretty good career overall.

[LostDoggy]

Well done Crossy. Abolsute legend.

Coming off a 39 possession game on the weekend too..

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Get him back to the club! Great person to have around

[Bulldog Joe]

The game loses another salt of the Earth honest professional this year. First James Hird, now Daniel Cross

'stache
That is just so wrong.

Daniel Cross deserves better than being mentioned alongside that pariah.

[LostDoggy]

Not many guys finish top 6 in the team B&F and get told they're no longer required. Particularly when they are an exemplary clubman.

Will be surprised if DC finishes much lower in Melbourne's B&F.

[Axe Man]

I wonder if Crossy will head into the fitness and conditioning coaching area since he has always been so fastidious in his own physical preparation?

With Justin Cordy gone and Mat Inness possibly stepping up there might be a position for Cross to learn the ropes?

[bornadog]

I wonder if Crossy will head into the fitness and conditioning coaching area since he has always been so fastidious in his own physical preparation?

With Justin Cordy gone and Mat Inness possibly stepping up there might be a position for Cross to learn the ropes?

He and MBoyd give their all when training and preparing for a match. That is a great suggestion.

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

Come back Crossy - Melbourne have a "veil of negativity".

[merantau]

Yes, Daniel Cross was a grand player for us and would be a real asset back at the club.

[Sedat]

He and MBoyd give their all when training and preparing for a match. That is a great suggestion.
Cheesy had them both covered ;)

[Pickenitup]

Absolute Legend who still bleeds Red White and Blue Hope he can come back and work with us.

[Greystache]

Cheesy had them both covered ;)

The only man in AFL history to be told that'll do during a beep test :D

[bulldogtragic]

The grand old story of Bomber Thompson offering Tom Harley another year from the rookie list to play one game or more. Crossy would be one of the rare people I'd give that offer to. Like Choco being stuck on 199 and 299. Just doesn't seem right.

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

I just sent the club an email asking them to get Crossy back in some capacity. That oughta to it

[Bulldog4life]

I was lucky enough to be there to hear and see Crossy's speech on getting Life Membership. Spine tingling stuff.
He loves our Club so much. Come back son.

[Remi Moses]

Opening in a fitness capacity .
Wonderful person and servant

[Webby]

Although it was tough moving Crossy on from our club, it was clear that it made sense for where we were at. We needed game time into Wallis, the Bont, Libba etc. whilst Picko and Boyd were clearly still relevant. We simply didn't have room for Crossy.

But what's Melbourne's excuse?!

Come back, Crossy. We are your club. Always will be.

[Greystache]

Although it was tough moving Crossy on from our club, it was clear that it made sense for where we were at. We needed game time into Wallis, the Bont, Libba etc. whilst Picko and Boyd were clearly still relevant. We simply didn't have room for Crossy.

But what's Melbourne's excuse?!

Come back, Crossy. We are your club. Always will be.

Brendan McCartney? Second time

[bulldogtragic]

Brendan McCartney? Second time

Ouch. Mac Attack. He's still in their top 18 next year, doesn't make a lot of sense.

[SlimPickens]

Although it was tough moving Crossy on from our club, it was clear that it made sense for where we were at. We needed game time into Wallis, the Bont, Libba etc. whilst Picko and Boyd were clearly still relevant. We simply didn't have room for Crossy.

But what's Melbourne's excuse?!

Come back, Crossy. We are your club. Always will be.

Could you argue the same with Brayshaw, Petracca, Toumpas and Viney whilst Vince and Jones are still relevant?

[Webby]

Could you argue the same with Brayshaw, Petracca, Toumpas and Viney whilst Vince and Jones are still relevant?

No, because Cross was third in their b&f last year (and probably would've won it had he not missed the last month with injury), would be top 5 in their b&f this year, and had 39 possessions last week.

In contrast, he played mainly in the twos in his final season with us.

If consecutive top 5's in a club b&f plus 39 possessions in his most recent game equals a de-listing from a club with ZERO culture and a list bereft of character, then I'm at a complete loss. He's very, very stiff. He was arguably Melbourne's only shrewd recruit in ten years. Cross was on $200k p.a. Roos is on $1.5M...! And Crossy's the problem!?

[Ghost Dog]

Although it was tough moving Crossy on from our club, it was clear that it made sense for where we were at. We needed game time into Wallis, the Bont, Libba etc. whilst Picko and Boyd were clearly still relevant. We simply didn't have room for Crossy.

But what's Melbourne's excuse?!

Come back, Crossy. We are your club. Always will be.

Roos said in his own presser, he couldn't replace players as he just didn't have the depth. Have no doubt Crossy could go for another year. In their best, and not many knocking on the door.

[westdog54]

I wonder if Crossy will head into the fitness and conditioning coaching area since he has always been so fastidious in his own physical preparation?

With Justin Cordy gone and Mat Inness possibly stepping up there might be a position for Cross to learn the ropes?

Has an Exercise Science degree. Would be the field he would probably move into.

[Webby]

Has an Exercise Science degree. Would be the field he would probably move into.

Could be of be the man to replace Justin Cordy?.. And also have some involvement with our VFL team in a coaching capacity?? Seems a pretty good fit. A very rounded professional with a lot to offer and an exemplary character, to boot.

Bring Crossy back!!

[Mantis]

Could be of be the man to replace Justin Cordy?.. And also have some involvement with our VFL team in a coaching capacity?? Seems a pretty good fit. A very rounded professional with a lot to offer and an exemplary character, to boot.

Bring Crossy back!!

He might be brought in a junior role, but to come in as the head honcho would be a stretch considering he has no real 'on job' experience in the field.

[Bulldog Joe]

Actually Crossy moved to Melbourne with the idea that he would continue beyond playing in a fitness role.

Pretty sure he will be doing that at Melbourne in 2016.

[KT31]

Well done to Crossy on a great career, would love to see him back at the Dogs in some capacity.
At least now I don't have to cringe every time I see him run out in a Dee's jumper.

[LostDoggy]

So on the balance of this thread, we get Crossy back for a year or 2 Captaining Footscray, transitioning into a conditioning/development coaching/mentoring role moving forward.

Sounds like a plan.

[Webby]

So on the balance of this thread, we get Crossy back for a year or 2 Captaining Footscray, transitioning into a conditioning/development coaching/mentoring role moving forward.

Sounds like a plan.

We just have to get him back home! The combination of his character as a man, his commitment to physical conditioning and preparation, his character as a man!, his ability to influence the vfl programme, his character as a man!, his development as a coach, his character as a man!, his potential on-field mentoring of our kids - should he wish to pull them on in the vfl, his value as a vfl player, his love for the club, his value culturally..... and..... his character as a man!

Get him back home!!!!

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

A dumb, sentimental thought i know, and it has no basis in a modern day reality....but geez there is a romantic part of me that would love to see us offer Crossy a rookie contract plus a coaching/ fitness coaching role next year and maybe allow him to play his 250th with the club where he belongs..
I know it'll never happen, but I wish there was a way for this to happen.
My wife and I saw Crossy debut against the Tiges many years ago and despite his limitations, he became one of our favourites for the pride he had in the guernsey and the dedication he had in forging a honourable AFL career.
His farewell speech at the 2013 b & f really hit home how much The Doggies were ingrained in his DNA. In short he is an exemplary football citizen and an outstanding person.

[The Adelaide Connection]

If he was asked to play for Footscray, with his love of our club, I can't imagine he would turn it down. He could easily stay in Melbourne's best 22 next year and he would be a real asset both as a mature body that can rack them up and as an on field leader.

Just as a random related thought, should the AFL bring in an extra Veteran Rookie spot that would allow clubs to take a mature aged (maybe 25+ player)? I think we need to lobby for it now so we can Rookie Cross and get him both his 250th and the chance to be chaired off in his last game in the jumper he belongs in.

[jeemak]

Fantastic career from Crossy, and he served two clubs with excellency.

His time is passed however, the way he has played the game these past two to four years would be well suited to an established side requiring hard midfield depth as complementary to its developing talent. Unfortunately for him, our development and now seemingly Melbourne's has reached a point where list priorities are squeezing him out.

I'd love to see him do whatever he wants, whether that be at our club or at another, and even still beyond this competition as he is a strong character and smart individual from all reports.

Good luck to you Crossy, and congratulations on a great AFL career.

[soupman]

Just as a random related thought, should the AFL bring in an extra Veteran Rookie spot that would allow clubs to take a mature aged (maybe 25+ player)? I think we need to lobby for it now so we can Rookie Cross and get him both his 250th and the chance to be chaired off in his last game in the jumper he belongs in.

You are allowed a rookie of any age. That's the spot Goodes is currently occupying, and Mitch Hahn also used.

[Murphy'sLore]

You can watch a beautiful farewell speech on the Demons' website. (But skip the Paul Roos bit at the end.)

[The Adelaide Connection]

You are allowed a rookie of any age. That's the spot Goodes is currently occupying, and Mitch Hahn also used.

I meant an extra rookie spot that is just reserved for Mature agers.

[LostDoggy]

Crossy concusses himself throwing himself backwards into oncoming traffic in a marking attempt.

Leaves the field on a stretcher in his last game.

Sad but somehow fitting. Everything given.

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

M. Boyd was there. Crossy came back to the bench and got chaired off along with his son. Beautiful.

[divvydan]

Got a little emotional when I saw the relief on the face of his wife when he put his hand up to indicate he was okay whilst being carried off.

[I'm Not Bitter Anymore!]

I was in tears I hope he comes back to us

[ratsmac]

A mate of mine who supports Melbourne is absolutely shattered that Crossy wasn't offered another year when they still have players like Watts, Dawes, Spencer, etc are still on the list.

Farewell to a absolute hero of our great club. I hope he goes on to be successful in the footy world somewhere.

[LostDoggy]

A mate of mine who supports Melbourne is absolutely shattered that Crossy wasn't offered another year when they still have players like Watts, Dawes, Spencer, etc are still on the list.

Farewell to a absolute hero of our great club. I hope he goes on to be successful in the footy world somewhere.

I can thin of one place where he is particularly welcome.

[Rocket Science]

Happened across this in the pile at home.

http://i.imgur.com/rijKs9F.jpg

Pity it's been sullied with a four letter word beginning with A...

[Sedat]

Generation next - Malcolm Lynch :D

[Rocket Science]

Generation next - Malcolm Lynch :D

Ha. So much retrospective gold.

Might even post a few other examples in a separate thread.

Anyway, onya Crossy.

[Ozza]

Generation next - Malcolm Lynch :D

I went to a pre season game in Canberra in 2007 and saw Lynch kick 3 goals and I thought we'd found a player!!!

[LostDoggy]

Crossy finishes 6th in D's B&F and (jointly) wins Ron Barassi award for leadership.

Hard to believe they couldn't see another year in him.

[Twodogs]

Crossy finishes 6th in D's B&F and (jointly) wins Ron Barassi award for leadership.

Hard to believe they couldn't see another year in him.

It is Melbourne...

They have no use for dedicated and consistant footballers.

[bornadog]

Crossy finishes 6th in D's B&F and (jointly) wins Ron Barassi award for leadership.

Hard to believe they couldn't see another year in him.

No dsrespect to Cross but goes to show you how bad things are at the D's. I don't want Murph, Boyd or Morris in the top 5 of our B&F, I want the young guns of the future to be there.

[Sedat]

Crossy finishes 6th in D's B&F and (jointly) wins Ron Barassi award for leadership.

Hard to believe they couldn't see another year in him.
How did that plonker Jack Viney come 2nd in the B&F and Crossy finish 6th?

[Mantis]

No dsrespect to Cross but goes to show you how bad things are at the D's. I don't want Murph, Boyd or Morris in the top 5 of our B&F, I want the young guns of the future to be there.

But Murphy and Boyd are real chances to finish in the top 5 of our B&F.

[bornadog]

But Murphy and Boyd are real chances to finish in the top 5 of our B&F.

Yes they probably will.

[Rocco Jones]

No dsrespect to Cross but goes to show you how bad things are at the D's. I don't want Murph, Boyd or Morris in the top 5 of our B&F, I want the young guns of the future to be there.


But Murphy and Boyd are real chances to finish in the top 5 of our B&F.

I get what you mean bornadog but a bit of an overly simplistic way of looking at it. Matthew Boyd and Bob Murphy being awesome this year doesn't make our kids any worse. The difference between them and Crossy is that they are AA nominations and Crossy, all due respect, has been serviceable week in, week out.

I want our kids being awesome but I will also take as many current All-Australian thirty somethings as possible!!

[bornadog]

I get what you mean bornadog but a bit of an overly simplistic way of looking at it. Matthew Boyd and Bob Murphy being awesome this year doesn't make our kids any worse. The difference between them and Crossy is that they are AA nominations and Crossy, all due respect, has been serviceable week in, week out.

I want our kids being awesome but I will also take as many current All-Australian thirty somethings as possible!!

I was having a go at Melbourne, not our older players. After all these years with upteen first picks, they should be doing a lot better