Couldn't find a threasd so.....
WCE have some injury issues:
http://injuryupdate.com.au/afl-west-coast-eagles-injury-list.php (http://injuryupdate.com.au/afl-west-coast-eagles-injury-list.php)
Name Injury Onset Return
Tom Barrass Hip joint tear Pre-season Round 6
Darren Glass Hip tightness Round 4 Round 5
Shannon Hurn MCL strain (right knee) Round 2 Round 8
Mark LeCras Fractured forearm Round 3 Round 9
Chris Masten Hamstring strain Round 3 Round 5
Nic Naitanui General soreness Round 4 Round 5
Matthew Rosa Illness Round 4 Round 5
Beau Waters Shoulder surgery Pre-season Season
Definitely no Hurn, Le cras,, Waters. Possibly Xavier Ellis, maybe Nic Nat a doubtful?
In: McLean, Graham, Jammo,
Out: Judd, Curnow, Cripps,
Cripps: give him a breather
White will again be needed for match ups, probably Darling 191cm 93kg (scary thought). Dougherty unfortunately would not be big enough. Graham has more pace than Cripps at this stage.
The luxury of playing three tall forwards may not be available to us again this week because there is no way known that we can hope to win with Rowe & White minding Darling & Kennedy. Those two will run riot unless we use Henderson in defence which also snookers the forward plan from last night.
If we had another key tall we could solidly depend on, we may be able to get away with it.
Could Jamison be brought in to take Kennedy and just hope that one of the others can hold Darling in check ??
Couldn't find a threasd so.....
WCE have some injury issues:
http://injuryupdate.com.au/afl-west-coast-eagles-injury-list.php (http://injuryupdate.com.au/afl-west-coast-eagles-injury-list.php)
Name Injury Onset Return
Tom Barrass Hip joint tear Pre-season Round 6
Darren Glass Hip tightness Round 4 Round 5
Shannon Hurn MCL strain (right knee) Round 2 Round 8
Mark LeCras Fractured forearm Round 3 Round 9
Chris Masten Hamstring strain Round 3 Round 5
Nic Naitanui General soreness Round 4 Round 5
Matthew Rosa Illness Round 4 Round 5
Beau Waters Shoulder surgery Pre-season Season
Definitely no Hurn, Le cras,, Waters. Possibly Xavier Ellis, maybe Nic Nat a doubtful?
No Glass either. Will get at least 2 for that charge on Wingard.
The right time for Warnock to start showing some form.
In: McLean, Graham, Jammo,
Out: Judd, Curnow, Cripps,
Cripps: give him a breather
White will again be needed for match ups, probably Darling 191cm 93kg (scary thought). Dougherty unfortunately would not be big enough. Graham has more pace than Cripps at this stage.
Bell is out for 3-4 as well. Bring Robbo in for him.
The game will be won in the guts. :P
We'll miss Belly and Curnow.
3 automatic outs...
Judd (hamstring strain) 5 wks
Curnow (fractured fibula) 6 wks
Bell (fractured finger, surgey req) 3-4wks
Reckon we can bring Buckley back in, knowing he'll have the same determination of the 22 that ran out yesterday.
Ditto Armfield, reckon we've missed him this year.
Hopefully McLean has recaptured the form he had lost and comes back in to the engine room as well.
If Cripps needs a rest, swap him with Graham.
If Docherty is ready, bring him in, i think another week might be in order though.
Garlett should be dominating the VFL, but he is not. One more week.
Cachia for Curnow
Robinson for Bell
Menzel for Judd
Jamison for White
One good game from Garlett and Armfield is probably not enough for a recall although I'm not sure what happened to Mitch Robinson this week?
Jamison, Rowe and Everrit should be ok to cover Kennedy, Darling and a resting Ruckman.
Cachia for Curnow
Robinson for Bell
Menzel for Judd
Jamison for White
One good game from Garlett and Armfield is probably not enough for a recall although I'm not sure what happened to Mitch Robinson this week?
Jamison, Rowe and Everrit should be ok to cover Kennedy, Darling and a resting Ruckman.
The 3 in bold did not play in the VFL this week and i'd doubt all (if any) are available for selection this week.
How do you pick a result with both sides shadows of their full strength outfits.
We've had a bit of a discussion about the effect of injuries on a club's season in the last few weeks.
Five weeks in... and this year's injury toll is creeping right up there to rival some of those.
Curnow is a huge loss and critical to our plans.
How do you pick a result with both sides shadows of their full strength outfits.
We've had a bit of a discussion about the effect of injuries on a club's season in the last few weeks.
Five weeks in... and this year's injury toll is creeping right up there to rival some of those.
Curnow is a huge loss and critical to our plans.
Curnow will certainly be a major loss - we have Carrazzo or Cachia as cover. I don't know whether Carrots still has the run now to go with a gun mid all day, and we'd likely have to bring Brock back in to cover him at the clearances. May be better to go straight to Cachia, at least as a starter.
The luxury of playing three tall forwards may not be available to us again this week because there is no way known that we can hope to win with Rowe & White minding Darling & Kennedy. Those two will run riot unless we use Henderson in defence which also snookers the forward plan from last night.
If we had another key tall we could solidly depend on, we may be able to get away with it.
Could Jamison be brought in to take Kennedy and just hope that one of the others can hold Darling in check ??
Good to see a fellow supporter who is not blinded by bias.
Rowe and White are liabilities. BUT, we are stuck with them.
Rowe just doesn't have it.
White, if he applied himself and concentrated more, showed far more determination than he does, and had confidence in his ability to mark the footy, and he is a good mark, could become a decent defender. At the moment, he is showing none of those aforementioned qualities. But, at least, he will provide a second effort. Once the ball hits the ground, Rowe is stuffed.
So he tries to manoeuvre his opponents off the ball. that's free kick territory every time. He does it, because he lacks the confidence, and more importantly the ability to beat his opponent in one on one contests and continues to be out marked by his opponents in those one on ones.
Injuries are going to hurt us but how we cover them and with whom is going to give a clear indication of how good our depth is at present.
Given that Cripps had that youthful temerity to go in and stick up for White as well as laugh in Crameri's face should be seen as a strong pointer as to why we need to keep giving the younger guys a game.
We have nothing to gain from continually turning over the same players who keep making the same mistakes, our future is dependent on the next group of young players stepping up to senior level.
This is not to say 'gift' games when unwarranted, just feel that some young guys in the team will add a new psyche to the group and hopefully some much needed vocals as well.
Injuries are going to hurt us but how we cover them and with whom is going to give a clear indication of how good our depth is at present.
Given that Cripps had that youthful temerity to go in and stick up for White as well as laugh in Crameri's face should be seen as a strong pointer as to why we need to keep giving the younger guys a game.
We have nothing to gain from continually turning over the same players who keep making the same mistakes, our future is dependent on the next group of young players stepping up to senior level.
This is not to say 'gift' games when unwarranted, just feel that some young guys in the team will add a new psyche to the group and hopefully some much needed vocals as well.
Agree Sheik. My way of thinking is this, there is not a shadow of a doubt Cripps will play many games of AFL and is part of our future. It is not gifting games AFAIC, its a hands on apprenticeship. He is a bull of kid, seems to be mentally tough and is leadership material. We got a good one here, play him, he can handle it.
Re the Rowe/White problem...
Solution?
This - http://www.carltonfc.com.au/player-profile/cameron-giles (http://www.carltonfc.com.au/player-profile/cameron-giles)
No way could he do worse than White, not in a month of Sundays - need Everitt up as the third man to help out too. He was lazy yesterday (Everitt imo)
How do you pick a result with both sides shadows of their full strength outfits.
We've had a bit of a discussion about the effect of injuries on a club's season in the last few weeks.
Five weeks in... and this year's injury toll is creeping right up there to rival some of those.
Curnow is a huge loss and critical to our plans.
Curnow will certainly be a major loss - we have Carrazzo or Cachia as cover. I don't know whether Carrots still has the run now to go with a gun mid all day, and we'd likely have to bring Brock back in to cover him at the clearances. May be better to go straight to Cachia, at least as a starter.
I'd play Holman......Cachia and Brock will take us nowhere....likewise I want Buckley in the team....
Buckley in for sure. Menzel might be available but back through the NB's for him.
No doubt WC will play their usual game against us but focus on bashing Murphy up this time. Need Gibbs to play a big game to take some heat off him and we'll need our blokes continuing to bash into some seasoned taggers and not just the skinny kids
Hate playing WC. They have key forwards that should be wearing Navy Blue.
Darren Glass 1 week suspension due to poor record. (charged with a Level One engaging in Rough Conduct offence (125 points, 1 match ban)
How do you pick a result with both sides shadows of their full strength outfits.
We've had a bit of a discussion about the effect of injuries on a club's season in the last few weeks.
Five weeks in... and this year's injury toll is creeping right up there to rival some of those.
Curnow is a huge loss and critical to our plans.
Curnow will certainly be a major loss - we have Carrazzo or Cachia as cover. I don't know whether Carrots still has the run now to go with a gun mid all day, and we'd likely have to bring Brock back in to cover him at the clearances. May be better to go straight to Cachia, at least as a starter.
I'd play Holman......Cachia and Brock will take us nowhere....likewise I want Buckley in the team....
Can't comment on Holman - I haven't seen him play yet. Agree about Brock, I think he's the past but Cachia was OK in the tagging role from memory, albeit not as good as Curnow.
Bell and Curnow will be difficult to replace.
I know that some folk criticise Bell's football awareness and finishing but his hardness, tackling, run and ability to get the ball more than make up for the occasional turnover. His effort in playing out the game with a badly broken finger was pretty damn impressive. We don't have an obvious replacement (I think Robbo is still injured) and I think Bell's injury will ensure that Cripps gets another game (and so he should). Graham (who shouldn't have been dropped) should come in for Bell.
Curnow has become the ultimate tagger with the ability to shut down an opponent and win plenty of the ball himself. His link-up work is on a par with Gibbs and Simpson. His attempt to play on after breaking his leg was courageous, if not an indictment on our medical staff. Cachia is best placed to take Curnow's spot.
McLean has to come in for Judd but Garlett probably needs another game in the NBs.
As for the whipping boys; Casboult, White and Rowe; they all performed their roles and made a contribution. Leave them in.
How do you pick a result with both sides shadows of their full strength outfits.
We've had a bit of a discussion about the effect of injuries on a club's season in the last few weeks.
Five weeks in... and this year's injury toll is creeping right up there to rival some of those.
Curnow is a huge loss and critical to our plans.
Curnow will certainly be a major loss - we have Carrazzo or Cachia as cover. I don't know whether Carrots still has the run now to go with a gun mid all day, and we'd likely have to bring Brock back in to cover him at the clearances. May be better to go straight to Cachia, at least as a starter.
I'd play Holman......Cachia and Brock will take us nowhere....likewise I want Buckley in the team....
Can't comment on Holman - I haven't seen him play yet. Agree about Brock, I think he's the past but Cachia was OK in the tagging role from memory, albeit not as good as Curnow.
Yeah I agree, but I think Cachia's disposal and decision making is slightly ahead of Curnow. Looking forward to seeing Holman though if he's ready fitness wise.
Ins - Jamison, Buckley, Holman
Outs - Curnow, Bell, Judd
Emerg: Docherty, Giles, Graham
Welcome to a new age! ;)
A few unknowns at this stage but this is how I think we'll go:
Outs: Judd, Curnow, Bell (all inj) White (omitted if Jamo available)
Ins: Graham or Holman?, Cachia, Buckley, Jamison (if fit)
Following could be strong considerations if fit (but fitness still doubtful):
Armfield
Robbo
MM may play it "safe" and go for Brock at the expense of Graham or Holman.
Holman has been doing well, but he's not banging the door down yet. Let him keep developing in the two's
Watson will come in this week.
Almost guaranteed.
As for Jamison they are being very quiet about his injury and I have a feeling his shoulder is cooked.
He keeps doing the same injury over and over again over the last few years, and it's time we got it sorted as he has a few years left in him and we don't need him in to further wreck his shoulder. Time to get it sorted.
It was Jamo's calf & club have declared him fit and available for selection this week. As well as Menz.
Surely Brock comes back in for Bell.. Its also time Jeffy comes back in.
Surely Brock comes back in for Bell.. Its also time Jeffy comes back in.
Agreed, along with Menzel and Jamison if fit.
There's plenty of life left in this season, it's not "play the kids" time just yet.
The simple fact that there is argument/discussion over who should come in when we have 3 forced outs says to me that our depth is definitely improving !!
We actually have options !!!
Although we are still a couple of (good) KPP short. :(
Surely Brock comes back in for Bell.. Its also time Jeffy comes back in.
Agreed, along with Menzel and Jamison if fit.
There's plenty of life left in this season, it's not "play the kids" time just yet.
Menzel will miss another week, and even then would probably need to come back through the Magoos.
Surely Brock comes back in for Bell.. Its also time Jeffy comes back in.
Agreed, along with Menzel and Jamison if fit.
There's plenty of life left in this season, it's not "play the kids" time just yet.
Menzel will miss another week, and even then would probably need to come back through the Magoos.
I'd like to see Menzel string a few 3 goal, 20 possession type games in the Magoos before we get him back in the 1s
Surely Brock comes back in for Bell.. Its also time Jeffy comes back in.
Agreed, along with Menzel and Jamison if fit.
There's plenty of life left in this season, it's not "play the kids" time just yet.
Menzel will miss another week, and even then would probably need to come back through the Magoos.
Menzel & Jamo have been declared fit & both available for selection this week.
Menzel & Jamo have been declared fit & both available for selection this week.
Reported in the Hun that Menzel was still a week away.
Menzel & Jamo have been declared fit & both available for selection this week.
Reported in the Hun that Menzel was still a week away.
AFL site has them both as "test", as of today.
Menzel & Jamo have been declared fit & both available for selection this week.
Reported in the Hun that Menzel was still a week away.
I'd rather take the clubs injury report over anything written in the Sun.
But in better news in the injury front, Michael Jamison and Troy Menzel are expected to be available for selection.
Jamison missed Round 5 with a calf injury and Menzel with an injured hamstring.
http://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/2014-04-22/carlton-injury-update
As of Monday, April 21
Waters (shoulder) season
LeCras (arm) 2-3 weeks
Hurn (knee) 1-2 weeks
Ellis (calf) test
Bell and Curnow will be difficult to replace.
I know that some folk criticise Bell's football awareness and finishing but his hardness, tackling, run and ability to get the ball more than make up for the occasional turnover. His effort in playing out the game with a badly broken finger was pretty damn impressive. We don't have an obvious replacement (I think Robbo is still injured) and I think Bell's injury will ensure that Cripps gets another game (and so he should). Graham (who shouldn't have been dropped) should come in for Bell.
Curnow has become the ultimate tagger with the ability to shut down an opponent and win plenty of the ball himself. His link-up work is on a par with Gibbs and Simpson. His attempt to play on after breaking his leg was courageous, if not an indictment on our medical staff. Cachia is best placed to take Curnow's spot.
McLean has to come in for Judd but Garlett probably needs another game in the NBs.
As for the whipping boys; Casboult, White and Rowe; they all performed their roles and made a contribution. Leave them in.
I thought Casboult was very good. I criticised him last year for his lack of a second effort, but he showed that he has got the ability to chase and tackle if he puts his mind to it, by what he did in the last quarter.
The more Levi plays the better he'll get.
Can't say that about Rowe unfortunately. I'd give White till the bye to improve or out.
And replace Rowe or White with what....? That is the problem.
Watson will come in this week.
Almost guaranteed.
I certainly hope not - He is a major liability in "team defence" because he is too slow to get to a contest, uncompetitive when the contest comes to him, lacks desperation and hopeless below his knees / WC doesn't have any tall blokes that are slow enough as a match up
Rowe is much better in a contest, much better below his knees and significantly faster / White is faster again, more desperate and more versatile.
And replace Rowe or White with what....? That is the problem.
Cameron Giles.
I know, but is he ready... big ask for a young KP prospect to start vs the toasters.
Oh Nooooooooooo!!
In his weekly wrap, the coach has declared that there will be a number of changes, due to injuries and the names he mentioned as 'being in contention......'
Graham
MCINNES
WATSON
BOOTSMA!!!
Put out that cigarette Mick, and have a decent look at the list!!!
Oh Nooooooooooo!!
In his weekly wrap, the coach has declared that there will be a number of changes, due to injuries and the names he mentioned as 'being in contention......'
Graham
MCINNES
WATSON
BOOTSMA!!!
Put out that cigarette Mick, and have a decent look at the list!!!
Considering we lost 3 onballers and Cripps looks a bit cooked I reckon he's taking the piss.
There wouldn't be a bloke slow enough on the toaster's list to be a realistic match up for Watson.
Still staggered he didn't get a gig on Dawes, but such is life.
Watson will come in this week.
Almost guaranteed.
I certainly hope not - He is a major liability in "team defence" because he is too slow to get to a contest, uncompetitive when the contest comes to him, lacks desperation and hopeless below his knees / WC doesn't have any tall blokes that are slow enough as a match up
Rowe is much better in a contest, much better below his knees and significantly faster / White is faster again, more desperate and more versatile.
I'm not saying I agree with it I can simply see the writing on the wall. He might even play forward instead of back, but we need another tall that gives us the flexibility to use Henderson or Waite back.
I know, but is he ready... big ask for a young KP prospect to start vs the toasters.
Could he do worse than White did on Crameri?!!
I doubt it.
I'd give Bootsma go, the kid has skill, good spoiler recently shown some good form in the magoos, will come good with some confidence and more time on the big stage.
Ciao
I'd give Bootsma go, the kid has skill, good spoiler recently shown some good form in the magoos, will come good with some confidence and more time on the big stage.
Ciao
Are you his cousin?
ffs, the guy is a rake, ok, whom does he play on in the Coker's line up? They are all big lads.....
Bootsma is finished.
MM persevered last year for nil result. Won't waste his time on him now.
Bootsma is finished.
MM persevered last year for nil result. Won't waste his time on him now.
I wouldn't say finished but very close to it....
I'd give Bootsma go, the kid has skill, good spoiler recently shown some good form in the magoos, will come good with some confidence and more time on the big stage.
Ciao
Lets hope for his sake, more than the clubs sake. He just looks far from the big stage at any measure, but we can hope and pray. ;)
I'd rather take the clubs injury report over anything written in the Sun.
Like Judd and Kreuzer ready for round 1? ;)
I think we have to play the same way as we did this week camakazie football and rely on kicking more goals than the opposition if we rob peter to pay Paul and put Hendo or Waite back we will not win as we won't kick enough goals so at this stage we have to rely on the likes of white and co to nullify the oppositions forwards enough to allow our forwards the opportunity to kick a winning score.and the same as last week we need Gibbs and murph to have blinders and warnock to at least break even.$700,000 needs to lift and walker and tuhey and Simone need to break the lines with clean ball and we win .lol I hope
I'm a little bit pedantic about such things so its definitely not a personal attack by any means.
Kamikaze.
Touhy.
Simmo
Bootsma is finished.
MM persevered last year for nil result. Won't waste his time on him now.
I wouldn't say finished but very close to it....
Then why was he given a two-year contractâť“
Oh Nooooooooooo!!
In his weekly wrap, the coach has declared that there will be a number of changes, due to injuries and the names he mentioned as 'being in contention......'
Graham
MCINNES
WATSON
BOOTSMA!!!
Put out that cigarette Mick, and have a decent look at the list!!!
If McIness, Watson or Bootsma come in for Judd, Bell and Curnow surely he's taking the piss, surely. I don't want any of those 3 in the side unless they are 100% ready to play decent, consistent footy. They all do have positives but the negatives are glaring, judging by previous senior outings
Watson has good size and a good left boot, but not much else. WTF were we thinking not grabbing Darling! Still $h1ts me, prefer Rowe, at least he can play on a resting ruck where his speed wont be an issue
McIness has a good defensive mindset, but i prefer Simon White.
Bootsma has good closing speed, is an ok kick and a great spoiler of the footy, but until he puts on a bit more muscle he makes Jack Gunston look like Lou Ferrigno. I'd rather give Giles a crack, and i prefer Everitt over Bootsma and Andy Mac at this stage.
Army and Mclean/Graham in for Bell and Curnow. Is Garlett ready? Jamo is a must IMO. Where is Robbo at?
Watson has good size and a good left boot, but not much else. WTF were we thinking not grabbing Darling! Still $h1ts me, prefer Rowe, at least he can play on a resting ruck where his speed wont be an issue
Just watching Darling on the weekend he is the closest thing to a modern day Fev, he's lighting fast, built like a brick craphouse and kicks it like a mule, possibly a little less skilled but he is a star at the young age of 21.
I'd rather take the clubs injury report over anything written in the Sun.
Sadly, with our club you'd have to go with the sun's report. Though they were upfront with Judd so maybe they've changed policy
I havent written Bootsma off yet.
Watson has to play forward IMHO when he comes back in. Id be playing him there in the 2's to adapt.
I'm with you Pratty... the kid has something IMO, and has way more upside than others on our list. Simply needs time and development, neither of which this club seems able to provide. He is NOT a KP player but a flanker, and people forget that.
Is a deceptive, handy size, quick, has a huge hoof, gets to the right positions (which you can't teach), has the necessary defensive mindset and spoils with intent... but is currently too light, lacking core strength, falls over too much, kicks without looking and lacks confidence. They are all things that can be changed... as opposed to Watson who is simply too slow, has NFI about positioning himself, and on the surface of things appears to be utterly lacking the necessary intent and desire.
I bet that blokes like Mackie looked pretty similar when he started out. Tall, rangy and blown over in a stiff breeze.
As Penfolds say... the rewards of patience.
I'm with you Pratty... the kid has something IMO, and has way more upside than others on our list. Simply needs time and development, neither of which this club seems able to provide. He is NOT a KP player but a flanker, and people forget that.
Is a deceptive, handy size, quick, has a huge hoof, gets to the right positions (which you can't teach), has the necessary defensive mindset and spoils with intent... but is currently too light, lacking core strength, falls over too much, kicks without looking and lacks confidence. They are all things that can be changed... as opposed to Watson who is simply too slow, has NFI about positioning himself, and on the surface of things appears to be utterly lacking the necessary intent and desire.
I bet that blokes like Mackie looked pretty similar when he started out. Tall, rangy and blown over in a stiff breeze.
As Penfolds say... the rewards of patience.
I'm with you guys.
The question is , does Carlton have the patience?
Based on what we're seeing at NB, I think so. He is starting to become a reliable role-player there which is a vast improvement on previous years. I reckoned when he first appeared that he is a kid that will take a minimum of 4 years to make it by getting his body where it needs to be.... like Buckley IMO.
Watson has good size and a good left boot, but not much else. WTF were we thinking not grabbing Darling! Still $h1ts me, prefer Rowe, at least he can play on a resting ruck where his speed wont be an issue
Just watching Darling on the weekend he is the closest thing to a modern day Fev, he's lighting fast, built like a brick craphouse and kicks it like a mule, possibly a little less skilled but he is a star at the young age of 21.
There's a reason why i dont watch Eagles games, and he's it!
Bootsma is starting from a long way back....Mackie was good early in his career and showed something...I dont have a problem with him playing but he always seems to get the wrong matchup ie Gunston or the like.....Mick will probably stick him on Darling and ge will get smashed.
FWIW I trhink he will be back in WA next season...
WEST COAST
INJURIES
Xavier Ellis (calf) test
Shannon Hurn (knee) 1-2 weeks
Mark LeCras (broken arm) 2-3 weeks
Beau Waters (shoulder) season
Darren Glass (suspended) 1 week
ON THE BLOCK: Xavier Ellis, who was plagued by calf issues during his time at Hawthorn, succumbed to another calf injury against Port Adelaide on Saturday. Skipper Darren Glass will happily accept a one-match ban for cleaning up Chad Wingard. Josh Hill produced another disappointing performance, failing to kick a goal from nine touches. Jamie Cripps managed only eight possessions.
NO PROBLEMS, JUST OFF NIGHT: DARLING
ON THE CUSP: Sam Butler was switched from defence into the midfield for East Perth in the WAFL on Good Friday and impressed. Big man Scott Lycett was a dominant force up forward, booting 5.1 from 15 touches and eight marks. Plenty of young Eagles turned heads too, including Jeremy McGovern (20 possessions), Blayne Wilson (24) and Callum Sinclair (20). Tom Barass, who has been hampered by a hip injury so far this season, amassed 17 touches in just over a half in his first game of 2014.
BEN WATERWORTH’S FORECAST: The Eagles had a golden opportunity to announce themselves and beat a quality side at home. They did not. While fitness was an issue — Port Adelaide overran Adam Simpson’s men in the fourth quarter — the inaccuracy of Josh Kennedy and Jack Darling in front of goal was costly, with the key forwards finishing with 3.8 between them. The Eagles’ fight and desire will be tested next Saturday when the team travels to Etihad Stadium to take on a rejuvenated Carlton. If they can rebound and win, a top-eight spot seems more realistic.
WEST COAST
INJURIES
Xavier Ellis (calf) test
Shannon Hurn (knee) 1-2 weeks
Mark LeCras (broken arm) 2-3 weeks
Beau Waters (shoulder) season
Darren Glass (suspended) 1 week
ON THE BLOCK: Xavier Ellis, who was plagued by calf issues during his time at Hawthorn, succumbed to another calf injury against Port Adelaide on Saturday. Skipper Darren Glass will happily accept a one-match ban for cleaning up Chad Wingard. Josh Hill produced another disappointing performance, failing to kick a goal from nine touches. Jamie Cripps managed only eight possessions.
NO PROBLEMS, JUST OFF NIGHT: DARLING
ON THE CUSP: Sam Butler was switched from defence into the midfield for East Perth in the WAFL on Good Friday and impressed. Big man Scott Lycett was a dominant force up forward, booting 5.1 from 15 touches and eight marks. Plenty of young Eagles turned heads too, including Jeremy McGovern (20 possessions), Blayne Wilson (24) and Callum Sinclair (20). Tom Barass, who has been hampered by a hip injury so far this season, amassed 17 touches in just over a half in his first game of 2014.
BEN WATERWORTH’S FORECAST: The Eagles had a golden opportunity to announce themselves and beat a quality side at home. They did not. While fitness was an issue — Port Adelaide overran Adam Simpson’s men in the fourth quarter — the inaccuracy of Josh Kennedy and Jack Darling in front of goal was costly, with the key forwards finishing with 3.8 between them. The Eagles’ fight and desire will be tested next Saturday when the team travels to Etihad Stadium to take on a rejuvenated Carlton. If they can rebound and win, a top-eight spot seems more realistic.
Gibb's good mate Beau Waters is the big loss for that side. A genuine hard nut.
A must and should win game.
Officially changes.
In
Michael Jamison,
Mitch Robinson,
Brock McLean,
Jeff Garlett
Out
Ed Curnow (Leg),
Patrick Cripps (Omitted),
Chris Judd (Hamstring),
Tom Bell (Finger)
B Andrew Walker, Michael Jamison, Zach Tuohy
HB Dale Thomas, Sam Rowe, Kade Simpson
C Kane Lucas, Marc Murphy,Bryce Gibbs
HF Heath Scotland, Lachie Henderson,Jeff Garlett
F Chris Yarran, Jarrad Waite, Levi Casboult
Fol Robert Warnock,Brock McLean,Mitch Robinson
I/C Andrejs Everitt, David Ellard, Andrew Carrazzo, Simon White
Emg Dylan Buckley, Matthew Watson, Troy Menzel
Selections make perfect sense to me.
Cripps was as good as two men short. A spell back in the magoos is just what he needs.
Judd didn't play really so we are two players up already.
Jamison, Brock and Jeffy are the obvious ins with Robbo a toss of the coin probably up against 3 or 4 guys like Cachia, Holman, Graham etc.
I'm assuming Carrots will be the tagger, the only tagger, that's encouraging.
Selections make perfect sense to me.
Cripps was as good as two men short. A spell back in the magoos is just what he needs.
Judd didn't play really so we are two players up already.
Jamison, Brock and Jeffy are the obvious ins with Robbo a toss of the coin probably up against 3 or 4 guys like Cachia, Holman, Graham etc.
I'm assuming Carrots will be the tagger, the only tagger, that's encouraging.
Personally i don't like it.
I'd prefer to see Armfield back, the perfect sub.
I'd probably have Menzel + Buckley in ahead of Garlett.
Back to the old guard!
Selections make perfect sense to me.
Cripps was as good as two men short. A spell back in the magoos is just what he needs.
Judd didn't play really so we are two players up already.
Jamison, Brock and Jeffy are the obvious ins with Robbo a toss of the coin probably up against 3 or 4 guys like Cachia, Holman, Graham etc.
I'm assuming Carrots will be the tagger, the only tagger, that's encouraging.
Personally i don't like it.
I'd prefer to see Armfield back, the perfect sub.
I'd probably have Menzel + Buckley in ahead of Garlett.
I agree. Re Armfield and Menzel, but prefer Garlett ahead of Bucks. The Brock inclusion is a worry.
In
Michael Jamison, Mitch Robinson, Brock McLean, Jeff Garlett.
Out
Ed Curnow (Leg), Patrick Cripps (Omitted), Chris Judd (Hamstring), Tom Bell (Finger).
Now I didn't watch any of the NB's match but the general feedback was that Garlett did nothing at all to warrant getting a call-up yet he has been gifted one. I'd also like to know if McLean & Robinson played so well that they have earnt a game in comparison to Graham & Buckley.
On the flipside, young Cripps has been flung after getting 17 touches last week.
Hope they know what they are doing here !!
Selections make perfect sense to me.
Cripps was as good as two men short. A spell back in the magoos is just what he needs.
Judd didn't play really so we are two players up already.
Jamison, Brock and Jeffy are the obvious ins with Robbo a toss of the coin probably up against 3 or 4 guys like Cachia, Holman, Graham etc.
I'm assuming Carrots will be the tagger, the only tagger, that's encouraging.
Personally i don't like it.
I'd prefer to see Armfield back, the perfect sub.
I'd probably have Menzel + Buckley in ahead of Garlett.
I agree. Re Armfield and Menzel, but prefer Garlett ahead of Bucks. The Brock inclusion is a worry.
Brock earnt his recall and he is a mature, hard body. No brainer given the outs....
Jamo a no brainer too but not sure we need White and Rowe as well then?
Garlett's the type of guy to kick 5 goals and adds the x factor to our forward line..... not sure WCE have a type that can go with him.
Hmm I reckon we are in for some late changes.
Just on Garlett and Waite, you would have to say that they were dropped for disciplinary reasons and are getting their recalls not to do with form, but the fact they have learned their lesson.
Form is fickle, it will come and go and dropping guys who are not performing is not always the answer.
Of the changes, the only one that surprises me a bit is Garlett coming in. Hopefully he can find the magic, but his present form did not warrant selection.
Mick must be looking at more run and carry, if Garlett gets a call into the squad.
Back to the old guard!
i simply dont rate jamison
club likes him but he is a C grader at best.....
Back to the old guard!
i simply dont rate jamison
club likes him but he is a C grader at best.....
You do realise he was considered unlucky not to be AA a year or so back.
There'd be a dozen clubs lining up for this C grader if he was available.
With Garlett its never really been about discipline as much as relieving him of pressure that comes from expectation to perform, he's a good kid and when on song he is a gun. With Brock attitude or mental weakness has never been an issue (even taking into account the recent sub thingy), its whether he still has ability to positively impact on a game. I don't think he does, I hope I'm wrong.
With Garlett its never really been about discipline as much as relieving him of pressure that comes from expectation to perform, he's a good kid and when on song he is a gun. With Brock attitude or mental weakness has never been an issue (even taking into account the recent sub thingy), its whether he still has ability to positively impact on a game. I don't think he does, I hope I'm wrong.
He'll add considerably more than either Cripps or Judd did against the Bullies.
Back to the old guard!
i simply dont rate jamison
club likes him but he is a C grader at best.....
You do realise he was considered unlucky not to be AA a year or so back.
There'd be a dozen clubs lining up for this C grader if he was available.
great...
trade him....
Back to the old guard!
i simply dont rate jamison
club likes him but he is a C grader at best.....
You do realise he was considered unlucky not to be AA a year or so back.
There'd be a dozen clubs lining up for this C grader if he was available.
great...
trade him....
:P
With Garlett its never really been about discipline as much as relieving him of pressure that comes from expectation to perform, he's a good kid and when on song he is a gun. With Brock attitude or mental weakness has never been an issue (even taking into account the recent sub thingy), its whether he still has ability to positively impact on a game. I don't think he does, I hope I'm wrong.
He'll add considerably more than either Cripps or Judd did against the Bullies.
Yeah i agree on that point.
Selections make perfect sense to me.
Cripps was as good as two men short. A spell back in the magoos is just what he needs.
Judd didn't play really so we are two players up already.
Jamison, Brock and Jeffy are the obvious ins with Robbo a toss of the coin probably up against 3 or 4 guys like Cachia, Holman, Graham etc.
I'm assuming Carrots will be the tagger, the only tagger, that's encouraging.
Personally i don't like it.
I'd prefer to see Armfield back, the perfect sub.
I'd probably have Menzel + Buckley in ahead of Garlett.
Tend to agree...Mclean and Robbo are very slow and I'd have liked Armfiled in for some balance.
Garlett needs to show more before he gets a game IMO...
Garlett will never go back to the VFL and dominate. Hard as a small forward with less crisp supply and ball movement.
Better off in the big stage if he has indeed worked on his forward pressure and hitting the scoreboard.
Don't mind the INs.
Need to get the ball to ground and kill them with our run.
Its our only hope.
Back to the old guard!
Yep and we will lose. What is the point of these statements if they aren't seriously backed up?
On the flipside, young Cripps has been flung after getting 17 touches last week.
Hope they know what they are doing here !!
It's called quality not quantity. He accumulated 17 possessions of mostly rubbish. He'll come good eventually as he's now had both a taste and a glimpse at what's required at AFL level. Dropping him was absolutely the right thing to do.
Don't mind the INs.
Dreaming of IN's.
Oh sorry I thought this was the scum drug cheating thread!! ;)
On the flipside, young Cripps has been flung after getting 17 touches last week.
Hope they know what they are doing here !!
It's called quality not quantity. He accumulated 17 possessions of mostly rubbish. He'll come good eventually as he's now had both a taste and a glimpse at what's required at AFL level. Dropping him was absolutely the right thing to do.
Is it though?
Drop him to an lesser league to learn the game? Or leave him in so as to fast track his development?
Cripps wasn't even named in the VFL. He wasn't dropped for form, he was dropped because the kid needs a rest.
Cripps wasn't even named in the VFL. He wasn't dropped for form, he was dropped because the kid needs a rest.
Doubt it. The kid is 19, uninjured and on an AFL list. More spin from the CFC unfortunately.
Cripps wasn't even named in the VFL. He wasn't dropped for form, he was dropped because the kid needs a rest.
Doubt it. The kid is 19, uninjured and on an AFL list. More spin from the CFC unfortunately.
Then explain why he isn't named to play VFL on saturday?
And why it says this on the CFC website:
Chris Judd (hamstring), Ed Curnow (leg) and Tom Bell (finger) have all been ruled out injured, while young gun Patrick Cripps has been rested.
http://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/2014-04-24/blues-make-four-changes
Cripps wasn't even named in the VFL. He wasn't dropped for form, he was dropped because the kid needs a rest.
Doubt it. The kid is 19, uninjured and on an AFL list. More spin from the CFC unfortunately.
Then explain why he isn't named to play VFL on saturday?
And why it says this on the CFC website:
Chris Judd (hamstring), Ed Curnow (leg) and Tom Bell (finger) have all been ruled out injured, while young gun Patrick Cripps has been rested.
http://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/2014-04-24/blues-make-four-changes
I say spin because that is what this is. If he was injured ...Fine, If he had performed poorly and needed to be dropped, well yes again ...fine.
But to rest a bloke who's been just OK and try and justify selection on the basis of a dubious dismissal.
Cripps wasn't even named in the VFL. He wasn't dropped for form, he was dropped because the kid needs a rest.
Doubt it. The kid is 19, uninjured and on an AFL list. More spin from the CFC unfortunately.
Then explain why he isn't named to play VFL on saturday?
And why it says this on the CFC website:
Chris Judd (hamstring), Ed Curnow (leg) and Tom Bell (finger) have all been ruled out injured, while young gun Patrick Cripps has been rested.
http://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/2014-04-24/blues-make-four-changes
I say spin because that is what this is. If he was injured ...Fine, If he had performed poorly and needed to be dropped, well yes again ...fine.
But to rest a bloke who's been just OK and try and justify selection on the basis of a dubious dismissal.
If he was dropped for form he would be playing in the 2s. If he was injured he wouldn't be listed as omitted.
Cripps has been cooked at quarter time in both games. He was never expected to feature this early in the season by anyone at the club. He got a game because of a standout performance in the VFL in their rd 1 which is fine. But he doesn't have the tank yet. And we knew that when we drafted him. It's no slight against him to be given a rest for one week.
Cripps wasn't even named in the VFL. He wasn't dropped for form, he was dropped because the kid needs a rest.
Doubt it. The kid is 19, uninjured and on an AFL list. More spin from the CFC unfortunately.
Then explain why he isn't named to play VFL on saturday?
And why it says this on the CFC website:
Chris Judd (hamstring), Ed Curnow (leg) and Tom Bell (finger) have all been ruled out injured, while young gun Patrick Cripps has been rested.
http://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/2014-04-24/blues-make-four-changes
I say spin because that is what this is. If he was injured ...Fine, If he had performed poorly and needed to be dropped, well yes again ...fine.
But to rest a bloke who's been just OK and try and justify selection on the basis of a dubious dismissal.
If he was dropped for form he would be playing in the 2s. If he was injured he wouldn't be listed as omitted.
Cripps has been cooked at quarter time in both games. He was never expected to feature this early in the season by anyone at the club. He got a game because of a standout performance in the VFL in their rd 1 which is fine. But he doesn't have the tank yet. And we knew that when we drafted him. It's no slight against him to be given a rest for one week.
It's a slight on Gen Y, who always need an excuse to get out of hard work.
If Cripps isn't fit enough for senior footy he should be playing in the twos, no ifs or buts.
Try selling that to some of our greats. ::)
Would've preferred to see Army in ahead of Robbo, don't want to see any of those brain fade trade mark Robbo kicks.
We looked so good last week because we hit targets, and Robbo worries me in that respect. Want to see Robbo and Brock really rough up S Selwood, as i assume he will be tagging Murph, putting blocks on for him and moving his tagger further into the stoppage, so he can get free.
Be good if Garlett can find his left boot again too, used to kick on the left all the time, give he and Yaz a couple runs in the guts to change it up a bit.
Jamo on Kennedy, Rowe on a resting ruck which is terrifying considering its Cox and Nic Nat, and White seems the only logical match up for Darling, as i think Walker and Everitt aren't strong enough for Darling. Walker probably on Josh Hill. Our Backline really needs to help each other out whenever they can manage it, I'd almost consider playing someone like Everitt as a seventh defender/loose man.
Our midfield really needs to stifle their supply, our forwards need to convert and i want to see big Levi ruffle a few eagles feathers in the process.
I wouldn't want to be an oppo defence lining up against Waite, Hendo, Yaz and Garlett.
Here's hoping the IN's can really have an impact and add a bit to the squad, let's see if we can resurrect our season and be 4-4 at the break. After our bye Judd and Curnow shouldn't be far off.
Blues by 11
@JK...
I think you'll find there are quite a few clubs nowadays who go into the season with limited expectations on their young blokes, so much so that they have pre-planned breaks scheduled into their season.
Ive heard a few coaches say 'he was scheduled for a rest' when talking about the latest draftees.
Given Cripps was never touted as having elite fitness, i think its quite plausible. We'll know if he comes straight back in next week after the week off.
AS many have said here already, the IN's tome reek of "same old same old". Our ball use was fairly good last week, Robbo worries me with respect to this. Their talls also wory me a lot. If they get a hold of us it could turn ugly. More of last weeks effort please Blues.
@JK...
I think you'll find there are quite a few clubs nowadays who go into the season with limited expectations on their young blokes, so much so that they have pre-planned breaks scheduled into their season.
Ive heard a few coaches say 'he was scheduled for a rest' when talking about the latest draftees.
Given Cripps was never touted as having elite fitness, i think its quite plausible. We'll know if he comes straight back in next week after the week off.
As long as he plays in the next blockbuster.
playing someone like Everitt as a seventh defender/loose man
He contributed very little last week. Is he learning Carlton's lazy skirt round the back of packs for a few easy stats ways?
I hope not. Needs to be given an important role and needs to perform.
playing someone like Everitt as a seventh defender/loose man
He contributed very little last week. Is he learning Carlton's lazy skirt round the back of packs for a few easy stats ways?
I hope not. Needs to be given an important role and needs to perform.
I hadn't noticed that fly, haven't paid a heap of attention to him. What important role would you give him?
I think we need his height in defense given the opposition. He has to be accountable in defense one would think, really dont want to move Hendo or Waitey down back. We need both of them up forward.
I know, but is he ready... big ask for a young KP prospect to start vs the toasters.
Could he do worse than White did on Crameri?!!
I doubt it.
I thought White played very well on Crameri, who kicked (at least) two or (possibly) three of his four goals when White was on the interchange bench or had switched opponents in the team defence. He was outmarked for one goal but generally played tight and used good closing speed to spoil numerous marking contests.
I know, but is he ready... big ask for a young KP prospect to start vs the toasters.
Could he do worse than White did on Crameri?!!
I doubt it.
I thought White played very well on Crameri, who kicked (at least) two or (possibly) three of his four goals when White was on the interchange bench or had switched opponents in the team defence. He was outmarked for one goal but generally played tight and used good closing speed to spoil numerous marking contests.
I agree with you RR, i thought White did ok on Craperi, given that Craperi although i dislike him almost as much as Ballantyne/Goddard and Monga LLoyd is a gun Footballer.
playing someone like Everitt as a seventh defender/loose man
He contributed very little last week. Is he learning Carlton's lazy skirt round the back of packs for a few easy stats ways?
I hope not. Needs to be given an important role and needs to perform.
TBF Fly, that set up around the back of packs is the way a lot of teams set up now.
Ellard out for Menzel, Armfield emergency
Good choice I'm happy with that.
I know, but is he ready... big ask for a young KP prospect to start vs the toasters.
Could he do worse than White did on Crameri?!!
I doubt it.
I thought White played very well on Crameri, who kicked (at least) two or (possibly) three of his four goals when White was on the interchange bench or had switched opponents in the team defence. He was outmarked for one goal but generally played tight and used good closing speed to spoil numerous marking contests.
I agree with you RR, i thought White did ok on Craperi, given that Craperi although i dislike him almost as much as Ballantyne/Goddard and Monga LLoyd is a gun Footballer.
Ok, so i watched the game (first half only as yet) again last night without the emotion and yes, White did a good job on Craperi - in the first half, at least.
So, my apologies!
I know, but is he ready... big ask for a young KP prospect to start vs the toasters.
Could he do worse than White did on Crameri?!!
I doubt it.
I thought White played very well on Crameri, who kicked (at least) two or (possibly) three of his four goals when White was on the interchange bench or had switched opponents in the team defence. He was outmarked for one goal but generally played tight and used good closing speed to spoil numerous marking contests.
I agree with you RR, i thought White did ok on Craperi, given that Craperi although i dislike him almost as much as Ballantyne/Goddard and Monga LLoyd is a gun Footballer.
Ok, so i watched the game (first half only as yet) again last night without the emotion and yes, White did a good job on Craperi - in the first half, at least.
So, my apologies!
No need for apologies, we all see the game differently. ;)
Good choice I'm happy with that.
yeah fair call, Menzels a step up in class from Army (as much as I love his attitude)........although we'll miss Ellard...he has been very good this season. Works his butt off to make a contribution and is one of the few very reliable shots on goal we have. I don't buy the "too small" line that is thrown his way more often than not.
cheers
Still wouldn't mind seeing Army come in for Robbo.
That'd just about be the best we could expect from our current availabilities i think.
Still wouldn't mind seeing Army come in for Robbo.
That'd just about be the best we could expect from our current availabilities i think.
I tell you what, if there is another late change and Army comes in, he won't nudged out of the side very easily.
Cachia for Curnow
Robinson for Bell
Menzel for Judd
Jamison for White
One good game from Garlett and Armfield is probably not enough for a recall although I'm not sure what happened to Mitch Robinson this week?
Jamison, Rowe and Everrit should be ok to cover Kennedy, Darling and a resting Ruckman.
The 3 in bold did not play in the VFL this week and i'd doubt all (if any) are available for selection this week.
Seems I wasn't too far away.
Why isn't Buckley in the side?
If Cripps has been dropped for a rest from both AFL and VFL then his fitness must be woeful...what has he played, 3 games?.....I can understand him being dropped back to the NB's but not to be playing VFL or a part game is astonishing IMO.
Dunstan from Stkilda has played all games and continues to be prominent......I dont expect Cripps to be starring but I do expect a young bloke of 18 to be able to play more than 3 games of football in a row at some level.
@ElwoodBlues1 some of our senior blokes have struggled with the physical demands of malthouse's game plan.
Has looked out of his depth against two of the Afl's weaker sides so it makes sense to leave him out against West Coast who many consider a top 8 side.
We need to be patient with Cripps and not break him. He will be something one day, and sooner than some might think.
If Cripps has been dropped for a rest from both AFL and VFL then his fitness must be woeful...what has he played, 3 games?.....I can understand him being dropped back to the NB's but not to be playing VFL or a part game is astonishing IMO.
Dunstan from Stkilda has played all games and continues to be prominent......I dont expect Cripps to be starring but I do expect a young bloke of 18 to be able to play more than 3 games of football in a row at some level.
I suppose he had all of the pre-season off?
If Cripps has been dropped for a rest from both AFL and VFL then his fitness must be woeful...what has he played, 3 games?.....I can understand him being dropped back to the NB's but not to be playing VFL or a part game is astonishing IMO.
Dunstan from Stkilda has played all games and continues to be prominent......I dont expect Cripps to be starring but I do expect a young bloke of 18 to be able to play more than 3 games of football in a row at some level.
Did Dunstan break his leg a year and a half ago?
If Cripps has been dropped for a rest from both AFL and VFL then his fitness must be woeful...what has he played, 3 games?.....I can understand him being dropped back to the NB's but not to be playing VFL or a part game is astonishing IMO.
Dunstan from Stkilda has played all games and continues to be prominent......I dont expect Cripps to be starring but I do expect a young bloke of 18 to be able to play more than 3 games of football in a row at some level.
Exactly what I've been saying EB. We all can accept that there is a gulf between the AFL and the VFL, but that does not extend to the point that anyone who plays AFL should then be excused from VFL duties because they need a rest!!
In fact Cripps should relish in the lesser league as a flow on from his most recent exposure in the AFL. A rest and return to the VFL will lower the bar IMO.
Some folk are being extremely hard on Cripps.
If you go back to the discussion at the time he was drafted, many posters doubted whether he would crack it for a game this season.
All players, whether they're seasoned veterans or in their first year, now have their fitness monitored like never before. If they're not fit to go, they have a spell.
At least clubs are honest now and give 'rested' as the reason for omission rather than 'general soreness'. However, I wouldn't be surprised if Cripps does have 'general soreness'; he does put his body in harm's way.
I saw Cripps play in the rd 1 VFL game.
Once he builds his tank & gets used to the intensity at senior level, he will be a gem. He will play like he did in the VFL.
The kid has grown 25+cm in just over a year & broke his leg 18 months ago - of course he is going to struggle with fitness.
I saw Cripps play in the rd 1 VFL game.
Once he builds his tank & gets used to the intensity at senior level, he will be a gem. He will play like he did in the VFL.
The kid has grown 25+cm in just over a year & broke his leg 18 months ago - of course he is going to struggle with fitness.
Totally agree, his body would be struggling to cope with all the extra weight as well.
Will be good to get a few games under his belt this year though. I think he's the perfect candidate as a sub. In a photo after the win last week he was standing next to Everitt, who is listed at 193cm and i could swear he was as tall if not a smidge taller. His height gives him a little flexibility in the sense that if someone like Everitt or White went down or subbed, he could cover forward or back as a third tall, or if a mid went down or was subbed, he could come on for a quarter or two and it wouldn't affect the midfield rotation as much. All the while still playing some AFL footy, mixed in with some full VFL games and another pre-season (Arizona) i can't see it being a negative.
I wonder if being the sub would diminish one 's confidence though? I don't think it would be bad for a player in the position Cripps is in to play as a sub given his fitness isn't going to up to scratch for another year or three. Build him up slowly so we don't break him??
Thoughts??
Cripps doesn't seem like the type to take being the sub as an insult. He just wants to play.
He fits the role as the sub well due to versatility. However his lack of real pace might not work that well.
Just watching Mundy run around last night, you can't help but get excited about Cripps.
His game in the VFL was the best game I've seen one of our kids play in a long time. He's a footballer. Holds up very well in tackles. Leadership. Sticks up for teammates. Great hands. And I read in an interview that before his growth spurt he used to play as a small forward so he has the skills of a smaller player & just needs to learn how to take advantage of his new height.
Its good we re easing Cripps into AFL footy.
We don't want to 'Kreuzer' him and go too hard too early with him.
Hard to fathom any criticisms of Cripps.
We knew from the get go that he arrived at the club still growing! And with a tank that will take another pre season or two to develop. Our expectations need tempering. Although I don't know, I'm better him not playing for the NBs tonight is more about management than anything else.
Like EMTWENTY, I was fortunate enough to see the lad play his first games for the NBs. He wasn't anything special early on but showed glimpses, but when he 'got it' and was asked to impose himself on the game, he did - big time. The only thing that held (&holds) him back, from my observation, was his tank and, probably, general understanding of the game and his role in the team. He'll learn. It's a cliche, but bigger fellas do take time and he's up around 193 cm now! Patience, Grasshopper.
Well said Baggers.
Big bodied mids take time to adjust to playing against stronger men than what they are used to. See Watson, Kennedy and even Kouta just to name a few. All took a couple of seasons to really shine.
It was interesting to see Cripps try and push off a Bulldogs tackler to no avail. He will get stronger and wiser. Have him in for a couple then back in, although I would not be surpised to see Cripps back in against Collingwood next Friday, Malthouse has form in brining in kids for big games. Maybe even a Giles or Holman to get a taste too. Plus expect Buckley to get a gig next week too against the plethora or pies small forwards.
Well said Baggers.
Big bodied mids take time to adjust to playing against stronger men than what they are used to. See Watson, Kennedy and even Kouta just to name a few. All took a couple of seasons to really shine.
It was interesting to see Cripps try and push off a Bulldogs tackler to no avail. He will get stronger and wiser. Have him in for a couple then back in, although I would not be surpised to see Cripps back in against Collingwood next Friday, Malthouse has form in brining in kids for big games. Maybe even a Giles or Holman to get a taste too. Plus expect Buckley to get a gig next week too against the plethora or pies small forwards.
You're going to like this kid. Once he cleans up his disposal, lookout. Just devours the contest, you can see he loves the game and understands it.
The kid has grown 25+cm in just over a year & broke his leg 18 months ago - of course he is going to struggle with fitness.
That's some growth spurt! :o
Well said Baggers.
Big bodied mids take time to adjust to playing against stronger men than what they are used to. See Watson, Kennedy and even Kouta just to name a few. All took a couple of seasons to really shine.
It was interesting to see Cripps try and push off a Bulldogs tackler to no avail. He will get stronger and wiser. Have him in for a couple then back in, although I would not be surpised to see Cripps back in against Collingwood next Friday, Malthouse has form in brining in kids for big games. Maybe even a Giles or Holman to get a taste too. Plus expect Buckley to get a gig next week too against the plethora or pies small forwards.
You're going to like this kid. Once he cleans up his disposal, lookout. Just devours the contest, you can see he loves the game and understands it.
Yep Holman has it. Love watching him play in the 2s. Whilst his disposal isn't elite, it's already better than Robbo's. If he can string a couple of dominant games in a row (he has had good games already just not consistent) he will be in the team.
If Cripps has been dropped for a rest from both AFL and VFL then his fitness must be woeful...what has he played, 3 games?.....I can understand him being dropped back to the NB's but not to be playing VFL or a part game is astonishing IMO.
Dunstan from Stkilda has played all games and continues to be prominent......I dont expect Cripps to be starring but I do expect a young bloke of 18 to be able to play more than 3 games of football in a row at some level.
This is way over the top - he simply isn't ready for the rigours of AFL football and we need to protect our next group of talent. The club should be applauded for its approach, not criticised. And the player certainly should not be questioned.
.........we need to protect our next group of talent. The club should be applauded for its approach, not criticised. And the player certainly should not be questioned.
Nail, Head, HIT!
In terms of today's game... I pray the 'good' J. Waite turns up. But I do worry as this bloke has a bleak history in terms of string 2 beauts together. Consistency aint his strong suit! Gee I hope he proves me wrong as today's result will be greatly improved in our way if the good Waite turns up.
We look like going in pretty tall up forward with Waite, Henderson, Casboult and Menzel. Scoreboard pressure is a must. We need to be out of the blocks first and not have to play catch up.
We'll win because our mids are on top and our forward line is functioning, not because of our defence!
People questioning Cripps pace doesnt make sense to me. I recall some similar things being said about Murph and Gibbs when they were drafted. They look ok to me on the burst these days. Gibbs surprises the hell outa me with his pace sometimes. In any case, where Cripps will do his best work wont require high end pace, it will require football nous, strength and courage to go where angels fear to tread. I reckon the little bull has these traits all covered.
Winning scores so far have been 74, 82 and 83 this round. It will be refreshing if we come out and attack like last week rather than any defensive crape. IMHO free flowing attack at all costs is the only way to combat any Freo style defensive game plans. God I hate Lyon's coaching style, so uninspiring to watch that I turned to watching some lifestyle show with the missus instead last night ;-)
Winning scores so far have been 74, 82 and 83 this round. It will be refreshing if we come out and attack like last week rather than any defensive crape. IMHO free flowing attack at all costs is the only way to combat any Freo style defensive game plans. God I hate Lyon's coaching style, so uninspiring to watch that I turned to watching some lifestyle show with the missus instead last night ;-)
Not very flattering scores are they. Bring back some flare , the game these days seems to hinge on gather stats than kicking goals. Much rather the key forward mark, goals style play of the 70s & -90s. This lock them up and gather 15 processions while playing keeps off is getting very tiresome. We have taken a game that was unique and a great spectator visual, and strangled it to churn out a possies . Damn boring these days.
People questioning Cripps pace doesnt make sense to me. I recall some similar things being said about Murph and Gibbs when they were drafted. They look ok to me on the burst these days. Gibbs surprises the hell outa me with his pace sometimes. In any case, where Cripps will do his best work wont require high end pace, it will require football nous, strength and courage to go where angels fear to tread. I reckon the little bull has these traits all covered.
Three games and he needs to be in cotton wool and is cooked, cant even play VFL?.....I'm not questiong his pace or ability just the fact he cant get on the ground even at VFL level this week(injuries aside).
Perhaps the fact that he's already a big unit somewhat disguises the possibility that he maybe behind others his age in regards to his own physical maturity. Its been mentioned on numerous occasions that he recently went through a massive growth spurt and that he is still growing. Im no doctor, but maybe regardless of his size, his body simply needs rest to cope with thr stresses of his own natural growth/developement.
Carrazzo out and Buckley straight in to the 21 to replace him. Menzel's the sub.
Happy with that
Carrazzo out and Buckley straight in to the 21 to replace him. Menzel's the sub.
Injured?
Carrazzo out and Buckley straight in to the 21 to replace him. Menzel's the sub.
Injured or "team balance"?
People questioning Cripps pace doesnt make sense to me. I recall some similar things being said about Murph and Gibbs when they were drafted. They look ok to me on the burst these days. Gibbs surprises the hell outa me with his pace sometimes. In any case, where Cripps will do his best work wont require high end pace, it will require football nous, strength and courage to go where angels fear to tread. I reckon the little bull has these traits all covered.
Three games and he needs to be in cotton wool and is cooked, cant even play VFL?.....I'm not questiong his pace or ability just the fact he cant get on the ground even at VFL level this week(injuries aside).
I heard Buckley on the radio today saying that he would have rested Langdon but didn't have anyone to replace him. Seems to me to be a pretty sensible approach to managing a young bloke's development and work load.
Carrazzo out and Buckley straight in to the 21 to replace him. Menzel's the sub.
Injured or "team balance"?
Back spasms. Despite the injuries, John barker sounds confident (not)
Too many changes to win I would think.
I know these guys are all supposed to be plug and play but 5 changes is too many.
Actually its 6 changes. FMD.
We haven't had this sort of depth for a long time. None of the in's are that concerning, yet.
Agree CIMM, too many changes for mine. Forken Hell.
6 midfield changes from last weeks epic win. 6!
Mick is suggesting that we are forced to play a different style this week to try and accomodate that.
how do you get to this standard of comp and kick like that
Id be more concerned if we are paying someone to solve these issues!
john barker - the coach in waiting