Squad for NAB Challenge v Brisbane

[jazzadogs]

WESTERN BULLDOGS
1. Jarrad Grant, 3. Mitch Wallis, 4. Daniel Cross, 5. Matthew Boyd, 7. Shaun Higgins, 9. Lindsay Gilbee, 10. Justin Sherman, 12. Tom Williams, 13. Daniel Giansiracusa, 14. Callan Ward, 15. Ben Hudson, 16. Ryan Griffen, 19. Liam Jones, 20. Josh Hill, 21. Tom Liberatore, 22. Dylan Addison, 24. Jayden Schofield, 27. Will Minson, 28. Barry Hall, 29. Easton Wood, 30. Christian Howard, 32. Patrick Veszpremi, 33. Nathan Djerrkura, 37. Lukas Markovic, 42. Liam Picken, 44. Brodie Moles


Missing:
Murphy, Hahn, Reid, Cooney, Stack, Roughead, Hargrave, Lake, Morris, Hooper (I probably missed one or two).

Stack dropped, and Minson chosen ahead of Roughie, are the two big ones for mine.

And good to see Schofield in there.

[Mantis]

Brisbane's squad:

1. Mitchell Clark, 3. Sam Sheldon, 4. Jared Polec, 7. Jed Adcock, 8. Matt Austin, 9. Ashley McGrath, 10. Daniel Rich, 12. James Hawksley, 14. Brent Staker, 17. Claye Beams, 18. Todd Banfield, 21. Daniel Merrett, 22. Tom Collier, 24. Joel Patfull, 26. Ryan Harwood, 28. Patrick Karnezis, 29. Andrew Raines, 32. Cheynee Stiller, 33. Amon Buchanan, 34. Jesse O'Brien, 35. Ryan Lester, 36. Matt Maguire, 37. Bryce Retzlaff, 38. Tom Rockliff, 41. Mitchell Golby, 42. Joshua Green, 43. Rohan Bewick, 44. Aaron Cornelius, 46. Broc McCauley

[LostDoggy]

Regardless of its status as a practice match, on paper this game is is shaping up to be very one sided, or very embarrassing if in fact the dogs don't come away with a win.

[Sockeye Salmon]

Brisbane's squad:

1. Mitchell Clark, 3. Sam Sheldon, 4. Jared Polec, 7. Jed Adcock, 8. Matt Austin, 9. Ashley McGrath, 10. Daniel Rich, 12. James Hawksley, 14. Brent Staker, 17. Claye Beams, 18. Todd Banfield, 21. Daniel Merrett, 22. Tom Collier, 24. Joel Patfull, 26. Ryan Harwood, 28. Patrick Karnezis, 29. Andrew Raines, 32. Cheynee Stiller, 33. Amon Buchanan, 34. Jesse O'Brien, 35. Ryan Lester, 36. Matt Maguire, 37. Bryce Retzlaff, 38. Tom Rockliff, 41. Mitchell Golby, 42. Joshua Green, 43. Rohan Bewick, 44. Aaron Cornelius, 46. Broc McCauley

I've never heard of half of them

[Mantis]

I've never heard of half of them

This is what happens when you let Vossy go to work. :eek:

[comrade]

I've never heard of half of them

And the ones I have heard of are mostly crap.

[LostDoggy]

I've never heard of half of them

Only a couple i haven't heard of, but it seems like they're almost full strength, given JB and the departure of Mr Trouble.

[mjp]

Only a couple i haven't heard of, but it seems like they're almost full strength, given JB and the departure of Mr Trouble.

Mr Black and Mr Power say Hi.

[Go_Dogs]

And the ones I have heard of are mostly crap.

Haha, they aren't that bad.

Whilst I don't think Brisbane will do very well this year, they have quite a few potential A Grade players on their list and they should develop fairly quickly as the games get pumped into them (Clark, Berger, Rich, Rockliff, Polec). If they have a decent run with injuries to the remaining core trio of Brown, Black and Power as well as Adcock and Drummond etc they could be OK.

In saying that though, they are stupid because if they hadn't traded for Fev and a few other seasoned players thinking they were around the mark and had topped up with more kids over the past couple of years they'd probably be looking as much as reasonable.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Haha, they aren't that bad.

Whilst I don't think Brisbane will do very well this year, they have quite a few potential A Grade players on their list and they should develop fairly quickly as the games get pumped into them (Clark, Berger, Rich, Rockliff, Polec). If they have a decent run with injuries to the remaining core trio of Brown, Black and Power as well as Adcock and Drummond etc they could be OK.

In saying that though, they are stupid because if they hadn't traded for Fev and a few other seasoned players thinking they were around the mark and had topped up with more kids over the past couple of years they'd probably be looking as much as reasonable.

I think Brisbane will struggle badly, even though I agree with what you say. However, the two bolded players are never fit for more than six weeks. Adcock was a very good player a couple of years ago, but has been terrible since. Drummond is the best HB in the league when fit, but never is.

For their sake, I'd like to see Clark and Berger play some strong footy.

It's just difficult to see them being competitive against most sides, though. Black and Power are already on the decline, JB has injury worries and their young players are ordinary aside from a select few.

[Cyberdoggie]

Dropping that easy mark was probably what annoyed Rocket the most.

[LostDoggy]

Stack is not cut out for the AFL at the moment. Hill will find out if he is close on his heels next week. Not good for Minnow either.

[Mantis]

Stack is not cut out for the AFL at the moment. Hill will find out if he is close on his heels next week. Not good for Minnow either.

Why? He has been chosen ahead of Roughead for this game which perhaps is our first indication that he might be slightly ahead at present.

I wouldn't count out Hill either as it was pretty hard for a forward to get into the 2nd game last week. I hope gets a good run over the next 2 or 3 weeks such that his performances will determine where he plays.

[Jasper]

Does anyone know what has happen to Ayce he was listed to play last week(foxsports had him coming into the side in the second game) and didn't and now he is not listed. Injury or just not picked?

[chef]

Dropping that easy mark was probably what annoyed Rocket the most.

He didn't drop the mark, Stokes spoiled him.

[LostDoggy]

Why? He has been chosen ahead of Roughead for this game which perhaps is our first indication that he might be slightly ahead at present.

I wouldn't count out Hill either as it was pretty hard for a forward to get into the 2nd game last week. I hope gets a good run over the next 2 or 3 weeks such that his performances will determine where he plays.

Why? Based on my eyes watching these three players in the flesh at Skilled Stadium last week (and every game last year). Simple equation.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Why? He has been chosen ahead of Roughead for this game which perhaps is our first indication that he might be slightly ahead at present.

I wouldn't count out Hill either as it was pretty hard for a forward to get into the 2nd game last week. I hope gets a good run over the next 2 or 3 weeks such that his performances will determine where he plays.

As you pointed out in another thread, I wish Hill was played in a position higher up the ground. Not sure why we refuse to do this, especially considering it was on the wing that Hill first impressed. With his tank - it seems logical to make him use it.

If we are hoping Hill comes good as a forward, we'll be bitterly disappointed and he'll be traded at the end of the year.

[always right]

Why? Based on my eyes watching these three players in the flesh at Skilled Stadium last week (and every game last year). Simple equation.

Fair enough but your previous post made no sense.

[Ghost Dog]

Who managed to see Josh in the VLF last year and if so, how did he go?
One player I love but almost drafted last year. Will be cheering for him this season.,

[bold-dogg]

Stack is not cut out for the AFL at the moment. Hill will find out if he is close on his heels next week. Not good for Minnow either.

Do you think Roughead is ready to take over the ruck if Hudson is injured?
When Hudson (32 y.o. this year) retires Roughy may still not be quite ready. Minson is a required player. The more games he gets the better.

[the banker]

Any thoughts on Josh in the sub role. Is he capable of kicking 2/3 goals in a half as game changer, can play through the middle and could float down the back?

[The Underdog]

Any thoughts on Josh in the sub role. Is he capable of kicking 2/3 goals in a half as game changer, can play through the middle and could float down the back?

In my view the sub, ideally will be someone who can come in and impact a game. Part of this will be being mentally ready to go when required. Josh has the talent to do this but his problem has always been intensity and I'm not sure that sitting around for half the game before he comes in suits him.
It's going to be a hard balance to strike between playing your best 21 and picking the right player to come in as a sub. In theory I hate it but we'll see how it plays out.

[Dry Rot]

When's the game being played?

[divvydan]

Game starts at 1pm today.

[Hotdog60]

Western Bulldogs v Brisbane Lions, Visy Park, Saturday February 26, 1pm

[Dry Rot]

Game starts at 1pm today.


Western Bulldogs v Brisbane Lions, Visy Park, Saturday February 26, 1pm

Thanks. Look forward to the match reports.

[GVGjr]

Currently during the warm ups both Wallis and Schofield are wearing the 'sub' vests.

[BulldogBelle]

Sorry to bother, but does anyone know of any radio stations that may be commentating the game?

[GVGjr]

Sorry to bother, but does anyone know of any radio stations that may be commentating the game?

You might get some scores but it's very doubtful that there will be commentary.

[GVGjr]

Jones having a set shot for the first goal..got it.

Great smother by -Addison.

[Dry Rot]

Thanks for the updates.

Will be interested to hear how our forward defensive pressure is - watched the Pies last night who were again very impressive with that, even with young no name players.

[SlimPickens]

Josh hill on a wing by the looks of it....cancel that now deep forward.

[LostDoggy]

He didn't drop the mark, Stokes spoiled him.

Either way, if he wants to be considered to play in the backline he has to hold that mark

[GVGjr]

The Lions had the better of us for a few minutes.

Wood providing a lot of dash out of the back half.

[GVGjr]

Nice long goal to Howard

[bulldogsman]

Thanks GVGjr for the updates, glad to find some :)

[GVGjr]

Hall getting very frustrated. Young Libba doing ok

[SlimPickens]

Very scrappy first quarter, to bazzacentric when better options present. Dogs 4-3-27 lions 2-2-14

[GVGjr]

Close 1st quarter but we worked a lot harder

Jones held some nice marks, Ves, Sherman looked good as well. We missed some gettable goals.

[bulldogsman]

Who kicked the other goals?

[The Coon Dog]

Goalkickers: Higgins, Jones, Howard, Djerrkura.

Better players: Boyd, Higgins, Williams, Giansiracusa, Jones, Addison, Veszpremi, Djerrkura, Markovic.

[GVGjr]

Markovic doing well in the 2nd quarter. Hill playing as a defender on McGrath

[SlimPickens]

Will doing some nice things this quarter. Cal ward 2 goals for the quarter.

[GVGjr]

Will doing some nice things this quarter. Cal ward 2 goals for the quarter.
Hill has done some nice things as well

[Ghost Dog]

thanks for updates

[Bulldog4life]

Appreciate the updates everyone.

[SlimPickens]

Half time dogs 10-5-65 lions 4-5-29.

[GVGjr]

Half time dogs 10-5-65 lions 4-5-29.

Have you got all the goal kickers?

[Ghost Dog]

not as one sided as I thought it was going to be. But, great to hear Josh's name mentioned

[The Coon Dog]

Half time score:

Dogs - 10.5.65
Lions - 4.5.29

Goalkickers: Ward 2, Higgins, Griffen, Jones, Hall, Howard, Veszpremi, Djerrkura.

Better players that quarter: Sherman, Ward, Hill, Liberatore, Veszpremi, Djerrkura, Markovic, Picken.

[Go_Dogs]

Thanks for the updates. Continued positive reports on Markovic very pleasing. Ditto Addison, Hill and Libba.

[comrade]

Half time score:

Dogs - 10.5.65
Lions - 4.5.29

Goalkickers: Ward 2, Higgins, Griffen, Jones, Hall, Howard, Veszpremi, Djerrkura.

Better players that quarter: Sherman, Ward, Hill, Liberatore, Veszpremi, Djerrkura, Markovic, Picken.

Nice work Baz.

Pleasantly suprised to see Markovic amongst the better players and very happy to read that our post season pick ups are showing some good form.

[SlimPickens]

Half time score:

Dogs - 10.5.65
Lions - 4.5.29

Goalkickers: Ward 2, Higgins, Griffen, Jones, Hall, Howard, Veszpremi, Djerrkura.

Better players that quarter: Sherman, Ward, Hill, Liberatore, Veszpremi, Djerrkura, Markovic, Picken.

Jones lead up work has been very good although his disposal has let him down. Have been impressed with his ability to get a gap on his opponent.

[GVGjr]

Half time score:

Dogs - 10.5.65
Lions - 4.5.29

Goalkickers: Ward 2, Higgins, Griffen, Jones, Hall, Howard, Veszpremi, Djerrkura.
.
Thats 9 goals TCD. I'm missing one as well

[The Coon Dog]

Thats 9 goals TCD. I'm missing one as well

Thanks GVGjr, Moles has the other.

[LostDoggy]

Thanks for the updates guys - I had planned to get there today but hubby is incapacitated at the minute (dog attack on Thursday night) and I have to be here to be nurse!

[SlimPickens]

Though vesz has 2?

[GVGjr]

Thanks GVGjr, Moles has the other.

Thanks

[SlimPickens]

Thanks GVGjr, Moles has the other.

You're right it was moles. Schofield and wallis on, not sure who has been subbed

[Ghost Dog]

Thanks for the updates guys - I had planned to get there today but hubby is incapacitated at the minute (dog attack on Thursday night) and I have to be here to be nurse!

Ouch! sorry to hear that

[SlimPickens]

Kicking away with it now. Up by 11goals 16-7-103 to 5-7-37

[GVGjr]

We dominated the quarter after a slowish start.

Wallis and Schofield came on for a run and did ok.

Libba very good that quarter and kicked a nice goal

[Mofra]

Cheers for the updates guys, much appreciated

[Greystache]

You're right it was moles. Schofield and wallis on, not sure who has been subbed

Keep up the good work young man, sounds like the footy's going better than the cricket here.

[The Coon Dog]

3/4 Time Scores:

Dogs - 16.7.103
Lions - 5.7.37

Goalkickers: Hall 3. Ward 2, Veszpremi 2, Moles 2, Higgins, Giansiracusa, Griffen, Jones, Liberatore, Howard, Djerrkura.

Better players that quarter: Hudson, Liberatore, Hall, Veszpremi, Picken.

[LostDoggy]

Ouch! sorry to hear that

Thanks Ghost Dog - pit bull cross off leash and not in voice control came at hubby and our two Jack Russells (on lead). Hubby saved our dogs from too much damage but took a bad fall on his knee - in a knee brace and very swollen! Not good at all:(

[SlimPickens]

What does griffen have on his shoulder?

[Throughandthrough]

What does griffen have on his shoulder?

a parrot?

[SlimPickens]

Took a while but dj and Sherman were the subbed off for wallis and schofield

[SlimPickens]

a parrot?

Ha....looks like a pillow

[Ghost Dog]

Thanks Ghost Dog - pit bull cross off leash and not in voice control came at hubby and our two Jack Russells (on lead). Hubby saved our dogs from too much damage but took a bad fall on his knee - in a knee brace and very swollen! Not good at all:(

Nasty. Could have been worse by the sounds.

Go Libba.

[SlimPickens]

Final score 20-8-128 dogs 8-10-58 lions

[The Coon Dog]

Final Score:

Dogs 20.8.128
Lions 8.10.58

Goalkickers: Hall 3, Higgins 2, Giansiracusa 2, Ward 2, Jones 2, Veszpremi 2, Moles 2, Griffen, Liberatore, Minson, Howard, Djerrkura.

[Throughandthrough]

A few suggestions in twitter land that CHristian Howard had a good game?

[LostDoggy]

Good result, if only a practice game - looking forward to Round 1!!!!!

[The Adelaide Connection]

Final Score:

Dogs 20.8.128
Lions 8.10.58

Goalkickers: Hall 3, Higgins 2, Giansiracusa 2, Ward 2, Jones 2, Veszpremi 2, Moles 2, Griffen, Liberatore, Minson, Howard, Djerrkura.

Loving that even though there were 20 goals kicked that noone got more than three and there was a massive spread. Hopefully it meant we weren't too Hall obsessed and it is a sign of things to come.

Did Grant play?

[SlimPickens]

A few suggestions in twitter land that CHristian Howard had a good game?

Had a few touches, wouldn't say it was a good game. Did some good things but was mostly unseen. Kick in meant for gilbee was a shocker.

[Mantis]

A few suggestions in twitter land that CHristian Howard had a good game?

Nah, he was one of the few players who struggled.

[Go_Dogs]

Did Grant play?

I've heard he nearly took mark of the century.

[Mantis]

Took a while but dj and Sherman were the subbed off for wallis and schofield

Addison (copped a heavy knock) didn't return after 1/2 time either so I thought he was subbed.

[divvydan]

Yes, was Addison who was subbed at 1/2 time for Schofield.

[comrade]

Not a bad result considering we have Cooney, Lake, Murphy and Morris to bring into that side. Nice to read that the new faces led the way.

Any injury concerns?

[divvydan]

Addison coped a heavy knock in the second quarter and didn't come back on. Not injured I don't think, just a bit concussed/winded.
Vez looked like he was sick all day but still performed well on the ground, was really struggling each time he came off though.

[BulldogBelle]

Their notable missing:
Fevola of course who will not be back, Black, Brown, Drummond, Hanley, Leuenberger, Redden, Polkinghorne, Power

We missed:
Cooney, Hargrave, Lake, Murphy, Morris, Roughead, Reid, Cordy, Tom Hill, Skinner, Tutt, Hooper, Mulligan, Stack, Hahn

[the banker]

The opposition was poor and had little competitive spirit. Feature was the tackling pressure that resulted in numerous turnovers - many in the forward 50. The ball was shared around and lots of players were presenting in the forwrad 50. Libba is effective but competition in the midfield is fierce. Sherman brings something to our game plan. Howard at times looked better but for a guy with a reputed elite foot he gives it up quite a bit. Really liked Schofield's attack on the ball and teh opposition. The guy is not shy - even came off half back to take a hand pass from Gia for a quick forward pocket snap. I think he moves well in straight lines. Josh Hill good link player and finisher and had time for some good decision making. Hudson was dominant. Vespa runs to space well. DJ was a lot more assued than last week.Cal Ward, Higgins, Gia, Cross all secure and looked sharp enough. Griff looked v dangerous down forward but no blistering moments from him. Wood is exciting. Expect about 50 goals from Barry as I think he will give it off to players running to position more. We worked like a swarm to good effect. All prospects looked good, but this week and next will tell us little as the opposition was v weak.

[Remi Moses]

Veszpremi looked like he had a slight cramp or calf issue.
Markovic looks lighter than last year
Libba tackles like the old man but kicks further [not hard]
Veszpremi looked good and led well [taller than I thought]
Gia was very good and his work ethic was excellent
Barry was rusty early but finished strongly
Picken was very good
good hitout against woeful opposition[pencil Bris Vegas in for bottom 3!]

[Mantis]

I will try and give some thoughts on all:

* Grant - Quietish, did good things, but was in and out of the game. His tackling and defensive skills were very good.

* Wallis - only came on late as the sub and was quiet.

* Cross - a typical Crossy game, a few kicking errors, but worked his butt off and was a consistent performer.

* Boyd - turned it over by foot a fair bit early on, but started using tha ball by hand and was involved in some good pieces of play.

* Higgins - did some classy things, good hit out.

* Gilbee - better than last week, but still not great.

* Sherman - showed off his pace on occassions, but fiddled with the ball a bit too often. Will be a frustrating player, but will add some much needed run.

* Williams - ran the ball well on occassions, but still made some typical 'Tommy' errors.

* Gia - good performance, but I thought his field kicking wasn't at it's usual high standard.

* Ward - very good in the 2nd qtr, has more power with his running and will be a big plus for us.

* Huddo - got a lot of the ball, much more than usual and while he didn't use well at times it was good to see him involved. Very vocal on the ground.

* Griffen - didn't get out of first gear.

* Jones - presented well and competed well in pack situations. He didn't use the ball super well, especially by hand, but on a few occassions the delivery was on the half volley and his quick dish was mis-directed.

* Hill - I thought he was very good. Spent time in defence & on the wing and looked good, competed well, stuck his tackles and his hands in close were good. Positive signs.

* Libba - very good, blows up a bit, but he was very good in-close and kicked it well too. Even though he isn't 'big' he mixes it up well in close and is a very good tackler... must run in the family.

* Addison - was ok early, but copped a heavy knock (courtesy of a Sherman hospital handball) and was subbed off at 1/2 time.

* Schofield - came on at half time and looked good, was bold with his running from defence and competed well, has a bit of mongrel in him and looks a player to watch.

* Minson - good signs from Will. Used the ball pretty well. Looked much more mobile than last year.

* Hall - good battle with Merrett, gave a couple off and still kicked 3 so played his role. Still has pace off the mark which is important.

* Wood - didn't do a lot, but he is an exciting player.

* Howard - struggled a bit, but hopefully will be better for the run.

* Veszpremi - smart player and reads the ball well. Nice addition.

* Djerrkura - did some really good things and some equally poor things, but there is a fair bit to work with and he looks to be very close to our best 22.

* Markovic - good first half, but struggled late on a quicker opponent. Showed enough to suggest he can play if required, but I would hate him to be isolated in the D50.

* Picken - he is a gem. 1st half was brilliant. - Tough & uncomprimising, wins contests he should lose and uses it well.

* Moles - found a fair bit of the ball, but was caught a couple of times. Needs to improve his awareness.

-----

Overall it was a good hit-out, lots of mistakes, but some really good signs. The opposition were poor and look set for a tough period especially if they lose one of Clark, Leuy or Rich to GWS.

[Ghost Dog]

When you say Libba blows up a bit, he lost his temper you mean?

[Hotdog60]

When you say Libba blows up a bit, he lost his temper you mean?

I think it maybe his fitness.

[Mantis]

When you say Libba blows up a bit, he lost his temper you mean?

Lacks endurance, gets puffed = 'blows up'... I am going to have to get a new term as I have pulled up on that before.

[choconmientay]

What does griffen have on his shoulder?

Do you mean this? (http://img831.imageshack.us/f/griffen.jpg/). Hopefully nothing serious.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Thanks for the reports.

Even though it was against weak opposition, the signs are positive from players we need to stand up.

Veszpremi, Djerrkura, Sherman, Addison, Williams, Ward, Higgins, Jones, Libba, Wallis and Markovic have made a solid start.

Pretty excited for this year. Competition should be fierce for spots.

[BulldogBelle]

Lacks endurance, gets puffed = 'blows up'... I am going to have to get a new term as I have pulled up on that before.

You must be a horse man. Blows up (in this sense) usually refers to a horse panting away and sweating.

So when you go out horse riding you want to slow them down at the end of the trip so that when they arrive back at the stables they are not blowing.

[Ghost Dog]

Hi Mantis
--> * Gilbee - better than last week, but still not great.

Any comments? His disposal,attack or decision making?

Come on Toast

[GVGjr]

* Schofield - came on at half time and looked good, was bold with his running from defence and competed well, has a bit of mongrel in him and looks a player to watch.



I have read a few references to Schofield 'having a bit of mongrel' however, I'm yet to witness it. Overly confident and a bit of a yap I'm aware of but nothing to suggest he's got some mad dog tendencies. Very good pace, reads the play OK and he certainly throws himself into contests and this will be highly regarded by the Bulldog faithful.

[chef]

Thanks for the reports guys:).

[Mantis]

I have read a few references to Schofield 'having a bit of mongrel' however, I'm yet to witness it. Overly confident and a bit of a yap I'm aware of but nothing to suggest he's got some mad dog tendencies. Very good pace, reads the play OK and he certainly throws himself into contests and this will be highly regarded by the Bulldog faithful.

Maybe not the best choice of words, but he certainly doesn't take any nonsense.

At one point Buchanan laid a heavy and illegal shephard, Schofield took offence and remonstrated pretty fiercely with him. Once it was done he just dusted himself off and ran off with Buchanan in tow.

I guess he is in the Picken mould in that way.

[immortalmike]

Hi Mantis
--> * Gilbee - better than last week, but still not great.

Any comments? His disposal,attack or decision making?

Come on Toast

From my perspective Gilbs tried his guts out and he found plenty of it but his disposal let him down a fair bit today.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Maybe not the best choice of words, but he certainly doesn't take any nonsense.

At one point Buchanan laid a heavy and illegal shephard, Schofield took offence and remonstrated pretty fiercely with him. Once it was done he just dusted himself off and ran off with Buchanan in tow.

I guess he is in the Picken mould in that way.

If this was Facebook, I'd "like" that.

Any chance Schofield may crack a debut this year, from the little we've seen of him?

[Ghost Dog]

From my perspective Gilbs tried his guts out and he found plenty of it but his disposal let him down a fair bit today.

Thanks Mantis. Hope he is just warming up and repeats his 2009 form.
If not then he might find numbers dwindling at his kicking school ^_^

[EasternWest]

I have read a few references to Schofield 'having a bit of mongrel' however, I'm yet to witness it. Overly confident and a bit of a yap I'm aware of but nothing to suggest he's got some mad dog tendencies. Very good pace, reads the play OK and he certainly throws himself into contests and this will be highly regarded by the Bulldog faithful.

Who wants "mad dog tendencies"? Mad dog tendencies and "a bit of mongrel" are poles apart.

A mouthy guy who doesn't mind the rough stuff and a lunatic that's on the edge are barely comparable. From what I've heard, Schofield fits the bit of mongrel label well.

[AndrewP6]

Hall getting very frustrated. Young Libba doing ok

With the fact they kick to him all the time? I read that on Facebook. Not a great sign:(

[Mantis]

If this was Facebook, I'd "like" that.

Any chance Schofield may crack a debut this year, from the little we've seen of him?

Yeah I think he is a big chance, and I guess by getting a chance in a strong team today and then performing well, abit against poorish quality opposition the MC must think he is going well too.

Also heard he gave Staker a bake too.

[AndrewP6]

Thanks Woofers for the reports and info. A one sided result against poor opposition, but good to hear of some young blokes having impact.

[GVGjr]

With the fact they kick to him all the time? I read that on Facebook. Not a great sign:(

He wasn't playing that well in the early stages and made a few errors himself. I didn't think we were overly Hall focused at all.

[AndrewP6]

He wasn't playing that well in the early stages and made a few errors himself. I didn't think we were overly Hall focused at all.

That's good to hear, thanks. It's one area we really needed to work on from 2010. Good that he picked up and finished with a few...

[Mantis]

He wasn't playing that well in the early stages and made a few errors himself. I didn't think we were overly Hall focused at all.

He played a bit too much from behind early on and got caught wrestling with Merrett who is pretty hard to shift. Looked much better on the lead.

[bulldogsman]

On today's performance could we play Libba in the same side as Cross, Boyd and Ward?

[GVGjr]

On today's performance could we play Libba in the same side as Cross, Boyd and Ward?

I suppose the question for me is more around with the reduced IC options if it's going to be viable to have guys like Libba, Howard and Wallis along with guys that need time off the ground as well like Jones and Veszpremi.

I don't think it's overkill to have Libba playing alongside of the guys you nominated though but there would be some other considerations.

[soupman]

Went along today for a beautiful day in the sun. So nice to be able to have a kick on the oval at half and full time.

Thought we put in a decent showing against poor opposition (even with the players they get back they'll struggle to not be in the bottom 4 or 5). Here are my thoughts:

Jarrad Grant: Very quiet. Never really looked dangerous, but still put on some good pressure and almost took an absolute speccy.

Mitch Wallis: Only came on for the second half and was quiet.

Shaun Higgins: He is our best recruit this year. The goal he kicked at the crowds end was fantastic and all class. Shrugged two tackles and snapped the goal over his shoulder. Looks a lot quicker than i remember him pre-problems.

Lindsay Gilbee: Was a fairly typical Gilbee game. Has slimmed down a lot. Probably the same shape as he was in 3 or 4 years ago.

Justin Sherman: Ran well with the ball when he got it and did some nice taps. Should be a good addition.

Callan Ward: Looked alright as a forward and did some nice things. Not overly influential.

Ryan Griffen: Second poor game in a row for him. Hopefully he returns to form in the next couple of weeks. Looks to be struggling to use his slimmer body to break tackles like he used to.

Liam Jones: Not sure he commands a spot in our best 22 yet. Doesn't add a whole lot. There is potential, but atm he doesn't take 1 on 1 marks, doesn't get much of it and his biggest strength is his defensive pressure, which whilst nice for a key forward shouldn't be his best part.

Josh Hill: Looked good down back. Took some nice marks, played all over the ground and used the footy well. Could be very handy based on todays performance as he could play as a deep or half forward, wing or a defender.

Tom Liberatore: Very impressive. Based on the last two games he is in better form than Wallis. Used the ball well by foot and hand, including a very good quick handball in the last quarter to set up a goal.

Dylan Addison: Was good before copping that knock. I have high hoped for him this year.

Jayden Schofield: Came on in the second half and got a bit of the footy. Looks like he could be something, but not enough to judge him off yet.

Will Minson: Very impressive. Was clean by foot, frequently got the ball and was good in the ruck (against poor opposition). Could be a surprise improver this year.

Barry Hall: Surprised he kicked 3 goals as I felt Merrett played him really well. Could tear sides apart again this year easy.

Easton Wood: Was quieter than last week but still did some good things.

Christian Howard: Looked alright. Got a bit of it early but was frequently caught. His kicking for a strength is too inconsistent.

Patrick Veszpremi: Very good leading forward. Just pops up in the right spots and converts his chances. I can see him being a regular 2-3 goal forward. Needs to get more of it around the ground though.

Nathan Djerrkurra: Better than last week. Tends to fall over a lot though, once today was right in front of goal and was terrible. Could be good though. Kicked a nice goal.

Lukas markovic: Was realy good early and could cover Lake pretty well IMO. Both his left and right foot are very good.

[bornadog]

I went along today from the start of the 2nd quarter. I won't do a player by player analysis but saw some good signs for the future.

* Libba in the middle of the pack shooting out a handpass straight to Wallis - I bet we see that a lot in the future.

* Loved the run and carry from the backline to the forward line by Schofield, including some hand balls back and forth between him and a few players. Looks like can develop into something.

* Picken is one tough nut and played lot in the backline, can he be the one to take over from Harbrow?

Overall we looked pretty good but the opposition looked pretty bad.

[the banker]

Liked Picken down back (Like him anywhere). He has lots more to offer than Harbrow ever did. Witrh an abundance of midfielders at some stage this year the backline may be

Picken Lake Morris
Schofield Williams Wood

Hardness and attack combined.

[Sockeye Salmon]

....

You missed Moles and Picken.

I thought Picken was BOG today.

[Maddog37]

So was Howard better this week than last?

[Mantis]

So was Howard better this week than last?

Not really, did some ok things, but was one of the few who lowered his colours.

Time is on his side so hopefully he takes the feedback from todays game on board and improves as the season starts/ progresses.

[LostDoggy]

Does anyone know what has happen to Ayce he was listed to play last week(foxsports had him coming into the side in the second game) and didn't and now he is not listed. Injury or just not picked?

Just to refresh this question from the Chief, I was wondering the same thing earlier?

[Mantis]

Just to refresh this question from the Chief, I was wondering the same thing earlier?

Has been a little shin sore the past few weeks so has had his training load lightened.

Will hopefully be back in full training over the coming weeks.

[LostDoggy]

Has been a little shin sore the past few weeks so has had his training load lightened.

Will hopefully be back in full training over the coming weeks.

What will this mean to his season?
Has he played at all this preseason?

[AndrewP6]

Just looking at a few sites. Spotted someone we all know in the crowd at today's game. Oh, and Aker was there too...;)

See the video "AFL Video Highlights" (right of screen)

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/tipping?useAbsoluteURL=true

[Remi Moses]

Just a quick rant on why they don't let anyone on the ground at the quarter time breaks?
Honestly it's like living in such a regimated Soviet style state sometimes! Does it matter if the patrons get a rare chance to be up close and listen to the huddles! Totally over the top to be warned numerous times to keep off the ground. Just my two bobs

[AndrewP6]

check out da druid chatting with aker on heraldsun.com.au

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport

adam...can't believe you said collingwood are looking real "spiccy". Is that even a word?:d
snap! :)


just looking at a few sites. Spotted someone we all know in the crowd at today's game. Oh, and aker was there too...;)

see the video "afl video highlights" (right of screen)

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/tipping?useabsoluteurl=true

[Mantis]

What will this mean to his season?

No idea.

They are hoping he resumes training shortly, but I guess in the meantime he will lose a bit of fitness.


Has he played at all this preseason?

I saw him take part in a couple of scratch matches in Jan.

[Hotdog60]

Some pics here (http://images.slatterymedia.com/photography/results/?q=collection:afl%202011%20nab%20challenge%20-%20western%20bulldogs%20v%20brisbane&sub_code=all)

[Bulldog Revolution]

An ok hit out against very poor opposition

We did overpossess it at times, and that led to most of Brisbanes goals. Mostly our forward delivery was poor, either too far in front of a forward or too far behind.

I've said it before, I'll say it again, Picken is just a gun. Vez for my money is a definite starter in a forward pocket and had a terrific first half. I thought he was very good and his right leg is a cannon.

Djekerra looks very close to playing round 1 and there was far more positive than negative about his game.

Sherman just doesn't get enough ot the ball for my liking, he had one nice burst where we used him well but his kick into the forward line was poor. I have concerns that he will never live up what we want from him. I hope I am wrong.

But he wasn't alone in forward delivery.

Gilbee spoiled very well but did not get a lot of rebounding overlap possession.

Gia was good and finished strongly in the 4th quarter

Libba was terrific, good by hand and foot, kicked a lovely goal

Schofield looked good, he is a competitive kid, and plays the game in straight lines

Minno had an excellent hit out, hands not always soft, but had good impact and got lots of it around the ground.

Very promising display from Markovic, only one passage of play when he looked slow and it was perhaps more lack of awareness than perhaps being slow.

I'd agree with most of what other posters said but I thought Hill was very quiet in the first half

[Doc26]

Just a quick rant on why they don't let anyone on the ground at the quarter time breaks?
Honestly it's like living in such a regimated Soviet style state sometimes! Does it matter if the patrons get a rare chance to be up close and listen to the huddles! Totally over the top to be warned numerous times to keep off the ground. Just my two bobs

I'm sure there will be differing opinions on this one along some line of occupational safety but I for one are with you on this Remi. Seems over the top for a practice match with few in attendance, primarily families. Over officious and too precious. Didn't seem to bother Mitch or Schofield. Enjoyed watching these two at half time having a kick to kick with each other amongst the kids.

[SlimPickens]

Lacks endurance, gets puffed = 'blows up'... I am going to have to get a new term as I have pulled up on that before.

Interested that you thought he "blew up", from what i have seen of Tom (jnr and snrs) he has always come across as one of those players that constantly looks tired but just keeps on running. He'll never be an explosive runner, he just doesn't have the pace but on pure gut running and willingness to get around the ground much like a Jose Romero type I think Libba will be top notch.

[Dry Rot]

Going from various games reports here, Jones has talent but not ready for AFL games this year?

[Ghost Dog]

Liberatore. How good is it to be able to roll that name off the tounge again?
Great to hear he showed some class today as, at first , it seemed he was going to be the lesser of the father son drafts but today did better than expected? Awesome. So glad to hear he did well against the lions. Early days.

[GVGjr]

Going from various games reports here, Jones has talent but not ready for AFL games this year?

I think he will get a number of games this season.

[LostDoggy]

My "specials" from the game, not the best, but the players i was pleased with for reasons mentioned above:

Markovic, Mince, Libba Jnr and Picken.

Brisbane wont win more than 3 games this year

[Mantis]

Going from various games reports here, Jones has talent but not ready for AFL games this year?

His first half was good, probably took 4 or 5 marks and would have taken another 2 or 3 if the kicks to him had been of higher quality. Sure his skill level wasn't great, but I thought he was pretty serviceable.

His ability to compete hard in the air (he is quite fearless & unselfish), his ability to present and his offensive pressure have him as a lock for rd 1... IMHO.

[Mofra]

His ability to compete hard in the air (he is quite fearless & unselfish), his ability to present and his offensive pressure have him as a lock for rd 1... IMHO.
That's a big call - he certainly does spread well from Hall leaving him one out against the other tall defender, but I wasn't impressed at the intra-club. He does provide a good level of defensive pressure though.

How do you see our forwardline for round 1 if Jones is in? Gia/Sherman as the high forwards, Jones on the HF line, Hall deep, Grant & another (Vez?) floating?

[Ghost Dog]

http://cdn2.slatterymedia.com/thumbs/150/2011/02/26/223800.jpg
http://cdn2.slatterymedia.com/thumbs/150/2011/02/26/223798.jpg
http://cdn2.slatterymedia.com/thumbs/150/2011/02/26/223833.jpg
http://cdn2.slatterymedia.com/thumbs/150/2011/02/26/223832.jpg

and BHOG ( best hair on ground) goes to...
http://cdn2.slatterymedia.com/thumbs/150/2011/02/26/223801.jpg


http://images.slatterymedia.com/photography/results/?q=collection:afl%202011%20nab%20challenge%20-%20western%20bulldogs%20v%20brisbane&sub_code=all

[LostDoggy]

Good to hear the positive reports about Libba Jnr! Exciting times ahead!

[Mantis]

How do you see our forwardline for round 1 if Jones is in? Gia/Sherman as the high forwards, Jones on the HF line, Hall deep, Grant & another (Vez?) floating?

At present I would have:

HF - Higgins, Jones, Gia
F - Grant, Hall, Vez

Bit concerned about lack of pace in smalls, but Coon & DJ will help and I guess we don't have many other options.

[LostDoggy]

I wet myself when libba jnr smothered then tackled the Brisbane player near old hawthorn stand 3rd quarter. Goaled from a tight angle for left footer soon afterward.

[Sockeye Salmon]

I'm sure there will be differing opinions on this one along some line of occupational safety but I for one are with you on this Remi. Seems over the top for a practice match with few in attendance, primarily families. Over officious and too precious. Didn't seem to bother Mitch or Schofield. Enjoyed watching these two at half time having a kick to kick with each other amongst the kids.

I had two 7yos with me. The half time (and after game) kick to kick was the highlight of their day.

Why did they kick us off the ground when we had time to get off and get settled back into our seats in the Hawthorn Stand and still have time to sit there watching the empty ground?

[Bulldog Revolution]

His first half was good, probably took 4 or 5 marks and would have taken another 2 or 3 if the kicks to him had been of higher quality. Sure his skill level wasn't great, but I thought he was pretty serviceable.

His ability to compete hard in the air (he is quite fearless & unselfish), his ability to present and his offensive pressure have him as a lock for rd 1... IMHO.

I think you make a number of good points, the delivery for most of yesterday to our main leading/marking forwards was poor - we over handled midfield and then missed forward targets

Jones works very hard at pressuring, and really just needs to refine his skills and decision making a bit, but for a young guy of his size there is heaps to like.

He needs to play, learn and develop. I think they'll play him as much as they can as he is clearly one for the future.

[the banker]

He hasn't been holding marks but Jones hits the pack hard. like Riewoldt without his hands. Ball comes to ground a lot. In past few years tall defenders (esp geelong and Pies) have taken the ball away after easy marking in defense. He competes and thinks well. His skills not quite up to his footy brain yet. Lots to like and should play him early rounds. Gia Jones Higgins Vez Hall Grant looks good with ball coming in, but is it lacking fast chasing tackler?

[Dazza]

It's a bit worrying that the talls of that group are the fastest. Although Higgins is looking pretty quick at the moment. Not sure if it's just me but I think his pace has improved a bit.

[LostDoggy]

http://cdn2.slatterymedia.com/thumbs/150/2011/02/26/223800.jpg
http://cdn2.slatterymedia.com/thumbs/150/2011/02/26/223798.jpg
http://cdn2.slatterymedia.com/thumbs/150/2011/02/26/223833.jpg
http://cdn2.slatterymedia.com/thumbs/150/2011/02/26/223832.jpg

and BHOG ( best hair on ground) goes to...
http://cdn2.slatterymedia.com/thumbs/150/2011/02/26/223801.jpg


http://images.slatterymedia.com/photography/results/?q=collection:afl%202011%20nab%20challenge%20-%20western%20bulldogs%20v%20brisbane&sub_code=all

BHoffG must surely go to Sam Reid. That young man needs to have a good look at himself. He looks like s cross between Malcolm Douglas and a Smith Street resident.

[Bulldog Revolution]

It's a bit worrying that the talls of that group are the fastest. Although Higgins is looking pretty quick at the moment. Not sure if it's just me but I think his pace has improved a bit.

He is definitely moving well dazb, he is looking very agileand very sharp over the first 5 metres at the minute

[Remi Moses]

He is definitely moving well dazb, he is looking very agileand very sharp over the first 5 metres at the minute

noticed the same thing he's moving about 3 gears higher this season