Game Day - R16 Western Bulldogs V Essendon

[Eastdog]

Dogs by 8 points
First Goal: Jones
BOG: Griffen

[bornadog]

Dons by 100 points

First Goal Gia

BOG Libba

[AndrewP6]

Dons by 77 points.
First goal Jones
BOG Griff

[always right]

Bombers by 90
BOG Griff
First goal Gia (hope he's not the sub as that might mean our fist goal comes in the third quarter)

[LostDoggy]

Bombers: 23
BOG: Windowlicker
1st Goal: Dalhaus

[LostDoggy]

Bombers by 59
BOG Libba
First Goal Dicko

[bornadog]

Bombers: 23
BOG: Windowlicker
1st Goal: Dalhaus

Hey MRM, this thread is meant to be BOG for us - not that it really matters:)

[LostDoggy]

Bulldogs by 3
BOG: Griff
First Goal: Jarrad Grant (first of 6)

[bulldogtragic]

Bombers by plenty
Griff as usual
Granty within 30 seconds

[Greystache]

Essendon by a lot
BOG- Griffen
First goal- Gia

[boydogs]

Bombers by 63
BOG Griffen
First Goal Grant

[KT31]

Bombers by 57
BOG - Griff
FG - Gia

[Bumper Bulldogs]

Bombers by 48 points
BOG - Griffen
1st Goal - Cooney in the 2nd quarter

Dogs will flood back to prevent getting killed in this one.

[Remi Moses]

Them by 53
BOG reckon Griff's getting tired So I'll go with Big Will
1st goal Luke D

[LostDoggy]

Hey MRM, this thread is meant to be BOG for us - not that it really matters:)

Ha, oh well in that case put your money on young Dal :)

[LostDoggy]

Bombres by too much to mention

BOG Minson

First Goal DFA

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Essendon by 79 points
BOG Libba
First goal Dickson

[SonofScray]

A famous victory for the Saltwater Lads today gents.

We're due for one of these real good moments where the cheats have an off day and we have a very good day which sees us get an unlikely win.

Spindleshanks with 10.7 for the game, Brownlow votes and a double handshake from each FFC fan in attendance.

[Go_Dogs]

Bombers by 67
BOG Roughead
First Goal Addison

[The Underdog]

Bombers by 71
BOG Liberatore
First Goal Murphy

I think this is gon' be ugly

[soupman]

Hunter the sub

[SlimPickens]

Dons 39pts

BOG- Griffen

Goal- Gia

[Scorlibo]

Hey everyone, as it happens I'm in Perth for the day. I was planning to watch our game at a local pub except now I'm here I realise that it's derby day and every pub in the city will likely be broadcasting the Weagles Freo game. Do any Perth people know of somewhere to watch the game today? Many thanks.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Bombers by 75 points.
BOG Libba
First goal. Hrovat

[Greystache]

Essendon playing through Bellchambers wherever possible, big concerns.

[Mantis]

Is Goodes any chance to hit a target?

[comrade]

26 points down 18 mins in. We are woeful.

[MrMahatma]

Is Goodes any chance to hit a target?
He gets a total free pass. Reckon he's a liability.

[ledge]

Ok I think I'm a very patient man but this is disgusting I'm not watching this club until they start doing something like flooding at least to stop the shit , also over the AFL crap umpire decisions and rules which are soo grey the umpire can justify either decision.
Out of bounds goal and its ok, how's that figure. ?
The whole game is in a terrible state , I'm going to rugby league

[GVGjr]

It's going to be a long day.

[G-Mo77]

Ended up staying home in the warmth. Had a bit on this morning and didn't finish early enough.

Good little fight back there. Hrovat excellent!

Umpires can go you know what.

[AndrewP6]

Grant with a snap for goal. We need lots of that from him. What is with kicking to Dahl in a pack? Just dumb.

[chef]

Nice fight back. Good to see Grant showing a bit.

[Dog54]

Ended up staying home in the warmth. Had a bit on this morning and didn't finish early enough.

Good little fight back there. Hrovat excellent!

Umpires can go you know what.

12 point swing with bad umpire decisions.

Hopefully they look at the stats at 1/4 time and even them up

[AndrewP6]

Ended up staying home in the warmth. Had a bit on this morning and didn't finish early .

I'm home too, mums just come out of hospital and I'm just keeping her company. Probably best for my blood pressure ;)

[ReLoad]

that essendon bloke was in the stand getting a pie when he kicked that goal, how the umpire didnt call that out of bounds ill never know.

Then the blatant no apparent reason free kick in front of goal at the end. lucky he missed, i mean is it really that obvious umps?

[G-Mo77]

He gets a total free pass. Reckon he's a liability.

Reckon a lot of players get a free pass, Goodes is not one of them.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Surely as part of our focus on contested footy, spread from the contest must be an important component. We would be a much better side than we are, if we were able to improve this element of our game. We just always seem to have too many players who are unable to judge when to leave the contest and find an opponent.

[Mantis]

Didn't we learn that Addison isn't up to it after the Collingwood game?

Hopeless.

[G-Mo77]

Well done Goodsie. Stanton will have to change his briefs at half time.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Loving the effort and execution this quarter.

[GVGjr]

Really stepped up the intensity. How long we can maintain it is the key

[ledge]

How f$&&$ hard is it to have someone in the goal square forward and back ????

[Topdog]

I can understand that we cant keep up the intensity for 4 qtrs at the moment but I cant understand why we can't play that style for more than about 10 minutes a game. That was exciting footy and lovely play, esp. the move that ended with Jones kicking the goal.

[Dog54]

Grant is an AFL player you should never let your dislike for somebody cloud decision making and this is obvious with Macca. How the hell have we played marko and Austin before him?

[G-Mo77]

Disappointing to let those last 2 goals through. Really good quarter apart from that. Essendon are thinking where we are, guys like Goodes and Smith are a real presence.

Griffen with an awesome quarter after a terrible 1st.

Hrovat excellent. Been our best IMO.

Jones and Grant look lively.

[always right]

Terrific second quarter after a first where the effort saw no reward....not helped by the appalling work of the maggots. Really allowed ESSENDON to get off to a flyer. Loved the work of Smith on Zaharakis. Keep hurting thm dogs.

[bornadog]

Addison not good enough at this level, ditto Dickson. Wallis a concern as well

[Greystache]

Disappointing to let those 2 goals through late. After such a good effort we lost the quarter by 3 points.

[Greystache]

Addison not good enough at this level, ditto Dickson. Wallis a concern as well

Scapegoats.

[always right]

The blokes bagging Goodes went quiet all of a sudden. Any chance they could come back and give him some credit? His second quarter was outstanding.

[always right]

Scapegoats.

To be fair both Addison and Wallis have had the fumbles today.

[mighty_west]

Is Goodes any chance to hit a target?

A bit like our captain when playing, he's giving us good drive from the backline which is exactly what we need with JJ out.

[always right]

Disappointing to let those 2 goals through late. After such a good effort we lost the quarter by 3 points.

One should have ben a free to Adison on the wing. We've had a shihouse run from the umpires.

[FrediKanoute]

Disappointing to let those last 2 goals through. Really good quarter apart from that. Essendon are thinking where we are, guys like Goodes and Smith are a real presence.

Griffen with an awesome quarter after a terrible 1st.

Hrovat excellent. Been our best IMO.

Jones and Grant look lively.

This I like!!!

[Greystache]

To be fair both Addison and Wallis have had the fumbles today.

True, but so has Stevens, and Morris and Minson are getting beaten. The same posters just single those two out every week, if Markovic was playing he'd get a mention too.

[Greystache]

One should have ben a free to Adison on the wing. We've had a shihouse run from the umpires.

Yep, I just meant from the state of the game perspective.

On cue Addison makes a contest from a 3 on 1 and we get a goal.

[G-Mo77]

Essendon defenders just dumb. We're kicking to their advantage and they're constantly spoiling each other.

[comrade]

Not many better finishers than Gia.

[BulldogBelle]

Koby Stevens is the new raging bull.

[always right]

Apart from one mark Adison cannot pick up the ball

[always right]

Gorgeous by Murphy

[comrade]

Every time we get a run on Essendon kicks a goal out of their arse. Must be the peptides.

[comrade]

Apart from one mark Adison cannot pick up the ball

Yep, terrible hands at ground level. Has a turning circle like a truck, too.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

FFS that in the back rule is ridiculous!!! Just throw yourself forward in the tackle and get the free every time. The rule defies the laws of physics!!!

[Greystache]

Wallis subbed out

[comrade]

Big kick for Tutt.

Well done, kid.

[always right]

Been happy ith Tutt's game today.

[always right]

Wallis subbed out

He's really struggled today

[Greystache]

He's really struggled today

He's really struggled all season

[always right]

Poor handball Will

[comrade]

They've gotten some very dubious 50/50 decisions. Momentum killers.

[G-Mo77]

They've gotten some very dubious 50/50 decisions. Momentum killers.

Big understatement there comrade.

[always right]

Big Will! You fricking beauty.....

[Sedat]

You reckon Bruce is barracking for us?!

[Greystache]

God quarter, need to run out the game strongly.

[comrade]

How good is Libba? Is he already up there with the likes of Mitchell and Kennedy?

[Mantis]

God quarter, need to run out the game strongly.

Having a dip which is good to see.

Hopefully we don't drop away.

[AndrewP6]

Will gives Tutty an absolute tongue lashing after the siren. Not sure what he was on about but he got stuck right in.

[FrediKanoute]

Win, lose or draw this game we have competed. With the level we are at that's all I ask for. Good though to see contributions from Tutt,Jones, Grant and Dahlhaus so far today. These guys have to be the future.

[The Underdog]

You reckon Bruce is barracking for us?!

Commentators & journos tend to barrack for a contest and a story. If we win, it's a story.

[chef]

So proud of the effort so far

[Greystache]

Cooney just flat out refused to pick up Winderlich standing 20m out in his own.

[comrade]

Peptides kicking in?

[comrade]

What was Addison thinking with that kick? Lets himself down too often.

[Topdog]

He was thinking there are 2 bulldogs players by themselves. I'll kick it between the two of them to the Essendon player.

[comrade]

Gotta keep playing Grant, surely?

[Greystache]

Goodes has been outstanding.

[always right]

Exquisite foot skills from Goodes

[Topdog]

This umpire just paid no advantage to us and we kicked a goal. Seriously WTF?>??????

[FrediKanoute]

UMPIRES!!!!! I F*cking hate them!

[always right]

A fricking disgrace

[Sedat]

When is advantage not an advantage? Shit umpiring

[GVGjr]

Anyone else enjoying the return of the mongrel dogs? We haven't shirked a contest today and have been hard at it.

[comrade]

How *!*!*!*!ing hard is to have someone on the goal line?

[comrade]

That non-advantage call was critical. Almost Aleem Dar like.

[Greystache]

Surely today should be silencing the demands for Roughead to be a permanent forward.

[comrade]

How can Cooney think a 15m kick in the defensive 50 to a player under immense pressure is a good idea?

The guy is a space cadet.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Anyone else enjoying the return of the mongrel dogs? We haven't shirked a contest today and have been hard at it.

Apart from the first quarter, this is as good as we've played all year.
We really don't deserve to lose by 5 goals.

Boy we've really been on the wrong end of luck and the umpires today.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

That non-advantage call was critical. Almost Aleem Dar like.

That and Dalhaus missing from 15 out.
The non-advantage call was a massive turning point and just took all the momentum away from us.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

The performance from 2nd quarter on needs to be the standard from here on in.
If we can bring that sort of effort on a regular basis, we can be confident of pushing good teams.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Clay Smith on crutches? Knee iced.
He's crying and the guys are around him, that doesn't sound good at all.

[chef]

Brave effort, but I feel a bit ripped off by lady luck today.

[GVGjr]

That non-advantage call was critical. Almost Aleem Dar like.

Yep, really dragged us back.

[ReLoad]

That and Dalhaus missing from 15 out.
The non-advantage call was a massive turning point and just took all the momentum away from us.

total game changer and we were never in it afterwards.

When we play with momentum we're awesome and we had it, only to have it stolen.

Needless to say Essendon are pretenders based on their game today, and we have a huge upsaide with kids.

I took a lot out of todays game even though we lost.

[EasternWest]

Anyone else enjoying the return of the mongrel dogs? We haven't shirked a contest today and have been hard at it.

Our guys were fearless today. As much as I hate losing, it's so much more palatable when you know your guys have legitimately given their all.

[G-Mo77]

Clay Smith on crutches? Knee iced.
He's crying and the guys are around him, that doesn't sound good at all.

WTF? Doesn't sound good at all. Know how it feels, gutted for him. :(

[EasternWest]

Clay Smith on crutches? Knee iced.
He's crying and the guys are around him, that doesn't sound good at all.

Crap. Terrible stuff.

[DOG GOD]

Seems like smith could be gone or the year...hopefully it's not an ACL.

[bornadog]

Yep, really dragged us back.

We had the momentum and the umpires took it away. The umpiring was atrocious today.

[bulldogtragic]

Poor Smithy. Shit news. Hopefully it's not too bad.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

I know we should not be satisfied losing. But given our of performances against teams above us for the past two to three years, I am very much encouraged by the signs shown today.
The challenge now is for the guys to put those sort of performances together for the remainder of the year.
I think we can also take comfort in the games of our youngsters today. Hrovat, Smith, Dahl, Libba and when he came on Hunter were hopefully a sign of things to come with this group.

[bornadog]

Seems like smith could be gone or the year...hopefully it's not an ACL.

It happened in front of me, looked like an ankle

[always right]

Please make it a six week injury only

[bornadog]

I know we should not be satisfied losing. But given our of performances against teams above us for the past two to three years, I am very much encouraged by the signs shown today.
The challenge now is for the guys to put those sort of performances together for the remainder of the year.
I think we can also take comfort in the games of our youngsters today. Hrovat, Smith, Dahl, Libba and when he came on Hunter were hopefully a sign of things to come with this group.

Agreed and we should say goodbye to Addison, Dickson. I thought Grant played well and should get anogher game.

[always right]

It happened in front of me, looked like an ankle

The ice was on his knee.

[bornadog]

The ice was on his knee.

Ok didn't see that from my side of the ground

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Agreed and we should say goodbye to Addison, Dickson. I thought Grant played well and should get anogher game.

Grant definitely changes (for the better) the dynamic of our forward line. If he can maintain the hustle consistently, then he can turn his fortunes around, as well as our team.
He's never going to be the hulking key forward , but with his athleticism he can be a very awkward match up, and make our attack more agile and less predictable.

[always right]

Grant was nothing special but provides something we don't have. Dickson was a non event. Worst game I've seen Adison play....hands of clay today.

[G-Mo77]

Grant was nothing special but provides something we don't have.

Agree with that. He was lively early but died out, nothing to really brag about but nothing to be overly criticise about either. I'd love to see him alongside Jones and Stringer and used as the third tall. I think I've wanted that since he started.

[azabob]

Grant was nothing special but provides something we don't have. Dickson was a non event. Worst game I've seen Adison play....hands of clay today.

@westernbulldogs: McCartney: To be brutally honest we've been waiting for consistency in Jarrad Grant's game before we brought him in. He was very good today.

[ledge]

I hope the club put in a complaint about the umpiring today, really did my head in and it all seemed essendons way, if it went in their forward line it seemed like they were given a free kick if they didn't kick a goal, absolutely disgusting, if ever I saw umpires favouring a team it was today.

[bulldogtragic]

@westernbulldogs: McCartney: To be brutally honest we've been waiting for consistency in Jarrad Grant's game before we brought him in. He was very good today.
My thoughts too.

[GVGjr]

@westernbulldogs: McCartney: To be brutally honest we've been waiting for consistency in Jarrad Grant's game before we brought him in. He was very good today.

Good to hear the coach insisting on players with a history of issues around intensity levels meeting the required standards rather than just being gifted games.

[Eastdog]

Just got back from the game. I thought our effort today was very good and we made a contest of it. Bad luck to Clay with that serious knee injury that will keep him out for a year.

[GVGjr]

Just got back from the game. I thought our effort today was very good and we made a contest of it. Bad luck to Clay with that serious knee injury that will keep him out for a year.

Did you take the tram? I've been home for a while now.

[Eastdog]

Did you take the tram? I've been home for a while now.

Took the train in today GVG. There were a few Dogs fans on there but not many.

[bornadog]

@westernbulldogs: McCartney: To be brutally honest we've been waiting for consistency in Jarrad Grant's game before we brought him in. He was very good today.

Played a great game today, taking 5 marks, 19 disposals, 4 inside 50's a goal plus dished off a few resulting in goals.

Note to Macca: How about not having double standards and gifting players games when they are not consistent, eg, Dickson, Addison, Cordy.

[LostDoggy]

Not bad, not great, there were a few lazy Essendon players that let us off the hook, but a few bad decisions and bounces of the ball went against us. But that's footy.

[GVGjr]

I feel really bad for Smith. He had taken some massive steps this year and really proved to his doubters that he belongs in this side.

Johannisen last week and now Smith. It's just a real shame that their development is stalled by injuries.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Pathetic umpiring - that non-advantage call changed the game. That umpire shouldn't have a job next week. Hrovat also got hard done by the "play on" call earlier in the game when he out marked Hibberd.

I thought it was close to our best performance of the year after the first 20 minutes or so. We made mistakes, but they were typically the right kind of mistakes, because we took them on.

Libba was incredible and I was very impressed by Hrovat. Surely wins a nomination?

[Dry Rot]

We lost that game with our crap first quarter, but...

I rarely cry and whinge about umpires and think objectively that usually the rub of the green sees things being equal, but today! WTF?

A number of decisions by both field and boundary umpires were just plain wrong, and all went against us.

I'm pretty pissed off, but the performances of the Rat and Libba are some compensation.

And how composed was Hunter?

[aker39]

Pathetic umpiring - that non-advantage call changed the game. That umpire shouldn't have a job next week.

I haven't posted on here for a long time, but I thought it worth while explaining what happened today.

Do not blame the umpire, blame the rule, and that rule is, when a non controlling umpire pays a free kick, then advantage can not be paid.

The mid zone umpire (who was in control of the play) did not pay the free, why he didn't pay it, I don't know. The end zone umpire (who was one of the 2 non controlling umpires at the time) paid the free kick and although he signalled advantage, he was incorrect to do so. The mid zone umpire rightfully stopped the play as the rules clearly state there can not be advantage paid when the free kick is paid by non controlling umpire.

[Hotdog60]

I haven't posted on here for a long time, but I thought it worth while explaining what happened today.

Do not blame the umpire, blame the rule, and that rule is, when a non controlling umpire pays a free kick, then advantage can not be paid.

The mid zone umpire (who was in control of the play) did not pay the free, why he didn't pay it, I don't know. The end zone umpire (who was one of the 2 non controlling umpires at the time) paid the free kick and although he signalled advantage, he was incorrect to do so. The mid zone umpire rightfully stopped the play as the rules clearly state there can not be advantage paid when the free kick is paid by non controlling umpire.

Thanks Aker39, I was at a loss to why it was called back. So now the controlling umpire needs to go to OPSM.:)

[SonofScray]

We lost that game with our crap first quarter, but...

I rarely cry and whinge about umpires and think objectively that usually the rub of the green sees things being equal, but today! WTF?



We didn't handle some of those decisions well, I know its not passé to claim we were hard done by, but honestly we got dudded today. I would have liked to see Dalhaus slot the goal just after the ludicrous non call on the advantage. But we fluffed it and the score opened up a bit.

I can think of 5 decisions that just defy the laws of the game and logic and each of them disadvantaged us. To the credit of our effort, I feel like today wasn't a level playing field. Its not often we can walk away understanding the result hinged on a few plays and calls. We were right in the thick of it.

I'm filthy, yet pleased with what we've brought to the table.

[1eyedog]

I haven't posted on here for a long time, but I thought it worth while explaining what happened today.

Do not blame the umpire, blame the rule, and that rule is, when a non controlling umpire pays a free kick, then advantage can not be paid.

The mid zone umpire (who was in control of the play) did not pay the free, why he didn't pay it, I don't know. The end zone umpire (who was one of the 2 non controlling umpires at the time) paid the free kick and although he signalled advantage, he was incorrect to do so. The mid zone umpire rightfully stopped the play as the rules clearly state there can not be advantage paid when the free kick is paid by non controlling umpire.

Yes thanks for clarifying. I was incredulous as I didn't understand why it was called back.

[soupman]

I haven't posted on here for a long time, but I thought it worth while explaining what happened today.

Do not blame the umpire, blame the rule, and that rule is, when a non controlling umpire pays a free kick, then advantage can not be paid.

The mid zone umpire (who was in control of the play) did not pay the free, why he didn't pay it, I don't know. The end zone umpire (who was one of the 2 non controlling umpires at the time) paid the free kick and although he signalled advantage, he was incorrect to do so. The mid zone umpire rightfully stopped the play as the rules clearly state there can not be advantage paid when the free kick is paid by non controlling umpire.

That's bullshit. Absolute crap.

Why did the non-controlling umpire pay the free then if he wasn't the relevant umpire? It wasn't as if the controlling umpire couldn't see Goddard get run down.

Regardless of whether or not the decision was technically correct, it ranks up there as one of the worst umpiring decisions I've ever witnessed. The outcome was the definition of how advantage should play out...it was textbook, and there is no possible rational reason that the fact we were penalised for winning a freekick should be the right outcome.


*I am not upset or questioning your statement Aker39, I am livid with this rule if it does indeed exist as you have posted.

[bulldogtragic]

Played a great game today, taking 5 marks, 19 disposals, 4 inside 50's a goal plus dished off a few resulting in goals.

Note to Macca: How about not having double standards and gifting players games when they are not consistent, eg, Dickson, Addison, Cordy.
If he had decent entries he could have had three or four too. Not bagging Cordy, but Grant knows where to lead to to be most dangerous and also when to work up the ground too.

[SonofScray]

Why was Heppel allowed to play on around the mark when Smith was clearly injured, immediately in the vicinity and in need of medical attention? Shouldn't play get stopped there?

[bulldogtragic]

I haven't posted on here for a long time, but I thought it worth while explaining what happened today.

Do not blame the umpire, blame the rule, and that rule is, when a non controlling umpire pays a free kick, then advantage can not be paid.

The mid zone umpire (who was in control of the play) did not pay the free, why he didn't pay it, I don't know. The end zone umpire (who was one of the 2 non controlling umpires at the time) paid the free kick and although he signalled advantage, he was incorrect to do so. The mid zone umpire rightfully stopped the play as the rules clearly state there can not be advantage paid when the free kick is paid by non controlling umpire.
Shame we haven't seen more of you lately Aker, i was wondering where youve been.

You're dead right on what actually happened. I think most are annoyed about what should have happened (I.e. the controlling umpire should have paid the free and then the adv).

[Topdog]

Interesting insight aker. I didnt know the rule was that specific.

[soupman]

Absolutely devastated with the all too likely severity of Clay Smith's injury.

He has been one of the highlights this season and is the personification of the contested style we are aspiring to. I have been so impressed with his ability both defensively and offensively this season and unfortunately this means the delight of seeing an opponent foolishly try and take him on will be postponed until he is fit again.

Having said that I think he is destined to be an absolute beast of a man, and time off his feet may just see him return a giant.

[jeemak]

I hope the club put in a complaint about the umpiring today, really did my head in and it all seemed essendons way, if it went in their forward line it seemed like they were given a free kick if they didn't kick a goal, absolutely disgusting, if ever I saw umpires favouring a team it was today.

If I'm not mistaken Rob Murphy had a chat with them as they congregated prior to walking off the ground after the game.

Umpire bashing isn't something I like to indulge in too much, it's a bloody tough job. Sometimes however, I get the impression the umpires like to be on the winning team and sink the boots in to the struggling or less popular clubs.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Absolutely devastated with the all too likely severity of Clay Smith's injury.

He has been one of the highlights this season and is the personification of the contested style we are aspiring to. I have been so impressed with his ability both defensively and offensively this season and unfortunately this means the delight of seeing an opponent foolishly try and take him on will be postponed until he is fit again.

Having said that I think he is destined to be an absolute beast of a man, and time off his feet may just see him return a giant.

Seconded. Hopefully it isn't as bad as first thought.

[soupman]

One player who deserves more credit than he is getting is Cooney.

Thought he was very good tonight, and his intent to tackle, especially early was encouraging. Thought he really fought back against the criticisms of his efforts of previous weeks.

[Go_Dogs]

One player who deserves more credit than he is getting is Cooney.

Thought he was very good tonight, and his intent to tackle, especially early was encouraging. Thought he really fought back against the criticisms of his efforts of previous weeks.

Agreed, he was good today looked dangerous and seemed more up than he has since returning from his hamstring.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

One player who deserves more credit than he is getting is Cooney.

Thought he was very good tonight, and his intent to tackle, especially early was encouraging. Thought he really fought back against the criticisms of his efforts of previous weeks.

I hope the blood cooking treatment he received preseason has been booked in again. He may yet improve his speed and endurance.

[always right]

Many have pointed to Cooney being played off the back flank for his lack of intensity. Right or wrong...perhaps his move back into the midfield resulted in the change in attitude today.

[always right]

I haven't posted on here for a long time, but I thought it worth while explaining what happened today.

Do not blame the umpire, blame the rule, and that rule is, when a non controlling umpire pays a free kick, then advantage can not be paid.

The mid zone umpire (who was in control of the play) did not pay the free, why he didn't pay it, I don't know. The end zone umpire (who was one of the 2 non controlling umpires at the time) paid the free kick and although he signalled advantage, he was incorrect to do so. The mid zone umpire rightfully stopped the play as the rules clearly state there can not be advantage paid when the free kick is paid by non controlling umpire.

If that is true, it has to be one of the more baffling rules....and we've got a few. I can understand it to some extent when there is a late call from a non-controlling umpire but in this particular case the whistle went as soon as the infringement occurred....I actually thought the controlling umpire paid it.


Why was Heppel allowed to play on around the mark when Smith was clearly injured, immediately in the vicinity and in need of medical attention? Shouldn't play get stopped there?

The only time play is stopped is when a stretcher is brought out or it is obvious there is some danger of the player being further injured. I don't think we can criticize this particular one.

[Lowey33]

The only reason advantage shouldn't have been paid, was if there wasn't an advantage. It's a ridiculous rule, even if it was correct, by the book! And old mate giesch will say he got it right, no doubt!

[Lowey33]

If that is true, it has to be one of the more baffling rules....and we've got a few. I can understand it to some extent when there is a late call from a non-controlling umpire but in this particular case the whistle went as soon as the infringement occurred....I actually thought the controlling umpire paid it.



The only time play is stopped is when a stretcher is brought out or it is obvious there is some danger of the player being further injured. I don't think we can criticize this particular one.

Why wasn't someone standing on the goal line? That was my first question, after heppels goal. No one within 15 mts of the goal square!

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Many have pointed to Cooney being played off the back flank for his lack of intensity. Right or wrong...perhaps his move back into the midfield resulted in the change in attitude today.

It's what I've noticed in a few games. Still picks up possessions in the back half but he isn't a good defender and seems to go through the motions. Each time he's been thrown back into the midfield, he's really clicked into gear (v Melbs and v Dons) especially.

[azabob]

Why wasn't someone standing on the goal line? That was my first question, after heppels goal. No one within 15 mts of the goal square!

No Essendon player was in the square either, so if one of ours was they would have a spare man inside 50.

[SonofScray]

The only time play is stopped is when a stretcher is brought out or it is obvious there is some danger of the player being further injured. I don't think we can criticize this particular one.

Just seeking clarification. Thought the umpire might blow the whistle instead of letting the Essendon player step over the injured man on the mark and call play on.

[always right]

No Essendon player was in the square either, so if one of ours was they would have a spare man inside 50.

Agree....and we would have been screaming at our blokes for not picking him up.

[Eastdog]

Dogs by 8 points
First Goal: Jones
BOG: Griffen

Picked the first goal for a second week in a row.

[azabob]

Picked the first goal for a second week in a row.

Good work ED!

[bulldogtragic]

Picked the first goal for a second week in a row.
Why don't you change your username to 'smart money' :)

[westdog54]

Why was Heppel allowed to play on around the mark when Smith was clearly injured, immediately in the vicinity and in need of medical attention? Shouldn't play get stopped there?

If Heppell had any measure of decency he wouldn't have played on. He's embraced the Essendon culture magnificently.

[azabob]

If Heppell had any measure of decency he wouldn't have played on. He's embraced the Essendon culture magnificently.

Surely your tounge is firmly in your cheek with that post?

[westdog54]

Surely your tounge is firmly in your cheek with that post?

In my view playing on around a clearly injured player is about as low as you can go.

[azabob]

In my view playing on around a clearly injured player is about as low as you can go.

Fair enough. Initially it looked like cramp. If only it was cramp.

[SonofScray]

If Heppell had any measure of decency he wouldn't have played on. He's embraced the Essendon culture magnificently.

Agree. Thought it summed up Essendon as a collective quite well.

[Mantis]

If Heppell had any measure of decency he wouldn't have played on. He's embraced the Essendon culture magnificently.

How is Heppell to know a player is seriously injured?

I would be filthy if one of our players didn't take such an advantage if given the opportunity.

[whythelongface]

How is Heppell to know a player is seriously injured?

I would be filthy if one of our players didn't take such an advantage if given the opportunity.

Agree. Can't fault Heppell for playing on.

[Ozza]

Agree. Can't fault Heppell for playing on.

Yes, agree also. Heppell isn't the doctor, he's just there to help his team win. As Mantis said - I'd be livid if one of our players didn't look to take advantage of their opponent being off their feet. Smith had no problem going and getting the footy when Zaharakis was being attended to!!

[Ozza]

I'm not sure if this has been mentioned on any other thread - but did anyone see Minson go off his tree at Tutt at 3 quarter time - as soon as the siren went, in the middle of the ground?

I take it this wasn't picked up on TV for those who watched from home? (Would be interesting to see it again).

I'm not sure what exactly the issue was - possibly Tutt not racing in from the wing at the final stoppage of the quarter - but Minnow was gesticulating wildly and had a couple of cracks at Tutt about whatever it was.

I really don't mind that at all. Great to see the passion from Will - and not accepting losses of concentration or laziness from his team mates. And at the same time, the other boys got around Tutty straight after it so that he didn't drop his bundle.

[Bulldog Joe]

I'm not sure if this has been mentioned on any other thread - but did anyone see Minson go off his tree at Tutt at 3 quarter time - as soon as the siren went, in the middle of the ground?

I take it this wasn't picked up on TV for those who watched from home? (Would be interesting to see it again).

I'm not sure what exactly the issue was - possibly Tutt not racing in from the wing at the final stoppage of the quarter - but Minnow was gesticulating wildly and had a couple of cracks at Tutt about whatever it was.

I really don't mind that at all. Great to see the passion from Will - and not accepting losses of concentration or laziness from his team mates. And at the same time, the other boys got around Tutty straight after it so that he didn't drop his bundle.

I certainly saw it.

Also intrigued as to why but it surely had Will riled.

[Greystache]

I saw it too Ozza. I wondered at the time what it was about because there wasn't anything really obvious.

[Murphy'sLore]

It was one of those times it would be handy to be able to lip read.

[Mantis]

I saw it too Ozza. I wondered at the time what it was about because there wasn't anything really obvious.

We only had 3 in at the bounce... the players (Will & Libba) were yelling at Tutt to come in to make the numbers even, but he was standing there like a rabbit in the headlights... Will won the clearance by himself, but as you saw he gave it to Tutt.

[bornadog]

I am surprised (or maybe not), that Griffen has received votes when I thought he had little influence on the game. His disposal was woeful with an efficiency of just 60% and 5 clangers. If it was our captain, the board would be in melt down again. Maybe the captaincy has rubbed off on Griffo.:D

[Dancin' Douggy]

I am surprised (or maybe not), that Griffen has received votes when I thought he had little influence on the game. His disposal was woeful with an efficiency of just 60% and 5 clangers. If it was our captain, the board would be in melt down again. Maybe the captaincy has rubbed off on Griffo.:D

I just watched the first 3 quarters and thought Griffen was great.
His passion and relentlessness were obvious.
He broke tackles and threw himself in again and again.

What I also saw Griffen do was this.
He wasn't happy giving a 1 metre handball to the guy standing right next to him and under just as much pressure.

He tried to break the tackle, create some personal space and at least get some distance out of the clearance.

[bornadog]

I just watched the first 3 quarters and thought Griffen was great.
His passion and relentlessness were obvious.
He broke tackles and threw himself in again and again.

What I also saw Griffen do was this.
He wasn't happy giving a 1 metre handball to the guy standing right next to him and under just as much pressure.

He tried to break the tackle, create some personal space and at least get some distance out of the clearance.

Fair enough, I just don't think he was as damaging as a Heppell or Winderlich. They really influenced the Essendon game plan and won for them in the end.

[LostDoggy]

We only had 3 in at the bounce... the players (Will & Libba) were yelling at Tutt to come in to make the numbers even, but he was standing there like a rabbit in the headlights... Will won the clearance by himself, but as you saw he gave it to Tutt.

We might disagree on some things, but I'll give you this, Mantis: Nothing gets past you.

[Dry Rot]

Libba had a terrific all round game. The Rat and Hunter were super too. While I still reckon his disposal is poor, the rest of Smith's game NB hitting the Bombers was really good.

On the flip side, our disposal from so many is poor, and why bomb it into Dahl with two taller defenders on him?

Special mention for Grant's tricky handpasses.

[whythelongface]

Fair enough, I just don't think he was as damaging as a Heppell or Winderlich. They really influenced the Essendon game plan and won for them in the end.

As much as I hate to admit it but that Heppell is a damn fine player.

[Go_Dogs]

I am surprised (or maybe not), that Griffen has received votes when I thought he had little influence on the game. His disposal was woeful with an efficiency of just 60% and 5 clangers. If it was our captain, the board would be in melt down again. Maybe the captaincy has rubbed off on Griffo.:D

The most impressive aspect of his game for mine was the defensive running and intent. So often he ran himself into the ground to get back and help out our defence by contesting and spoiling. It wasn't one of his better offensive games, but if every player showed the same defensive intent we'd be an incredible side. The stats don't really show it, but I'd suggest his GPS Data would've been right up there (as I assume it always is) and I love the fact he can still have a big impact when he's not getting the same numbers with disposals.

I know Boyd has had some good defensive games this year too, but in my mind Griff is more desperate and effective at this side of the game at the moment, both are elite endurance runners but Griff has had more continuity and has the leg speed to be very effective pressing back hard.

[Dancin' Douggy]

Fair enough, I just don't think he was as damaging as a Heppell or Winderlich. They really influenced the Essendon game plan and won for them in the end.

Can't argue with that, but Essendons forwards know when and where to lead and they always seemed to have space to run in to. Hard to find a solid clean target in our forward line.

[NoseBleed]

In the 1st quarter when it looked like it was going to be "one of those" days, I decided I'd blot out the pain by watching Griffen specifically, instead of following the ball.

Three things stood out. The first was how effective he was at continuing to work after a hit, a scrag, or a sly punch. The second was that the major blocker for him at stoppages was none other than A. Cooney, who took a heap of hits making sure Griff got a chance at a free run. The third, and most impressive was how far and wide I had to search for him when I got distracted by the game and followed the ball. I'd look away for a few moments following the ball, and he'd have switched sides of the ground, or run a third of the ground away from the last contest. Really impressive tank. My only knock would be the occasional grab and kick in traffic, which seemed to result in too many turnovers. As for occasionally getting run down or trapped, I have no problem with it, as he was taking on the opposition, something I've long admired him for. No risk, no reward.

On another note, did anyone else see the punch thrown by (I think) Hooker after we scored a goal? Been waiting for some mention of it - fair whack to the head which dropped one of our players, caused a bit of a push and shove, got the spare umpire out of his chair. Nothing on the MRP (Big surprise). Probably missed by the cameras as it was in advertising time, but maybe on fox (which I dont have...)

C.

[Mantis]

On another note, did anyone else see the punch thrown by (I think) Hooker after we scored a goal? Been waiting for some mention of it - fair whack to the head which dropped one of our players, caused a bit of a push and shove, got the spare umpire out of his chair. Nothing on the MRP (Big surprise). Probably missed by the cameras as it was in advertising time, but maybe on fox (which I dont have...)


On Grant in front of the Bulldogs race?

Didn't think it was a punch, more whack with the forearm... but I was sitting in the opposite corner of the ground.

[Mofra]

We only had 3 in at the bounce... the players (Will & Libba) were yelling at Tutt to come in to make the numbers even, but he was standing there like a rabbit in the headlights... Will won the clearance by himself, but as you saw he gave it to Tutt.
After Minno's effort against WCE a few years back (where Cooney beat Cox in the ruck) it's amazing how things have come full circle.

[LostDoggy]

In the 1st quarter when it looked like it was going to be "one of those" days, I decided I'd blot out the pain by watching Griffen specifically, instead of following the ball.

Three things stood out. The first was how effective he was at continuing to work after a hit, a scrag, or a sly punch. The second was that the major blocker for him at stoppages was none other than A. Cooney, who took a heap of hits making sure Griff got a chance at a free run. The third, and most impressive was how far and wide I had to search for him when I got distracted by the game and followed the ball. I'd look away for a few moments following the ball, and he'd have switched sides of the ground, or run a third of the ground away from the last contest. Really impressive tank. My only knock would be the occasional grab and kick in traffic, which seemed to result in too many turnovers. As for occasionally getting run down or trapped, I have no problem with it, as he was taking on the opposition, something I've long admired him for. No risk, no reward.

On another note, did anyone else see the punch thrown by (I think) Hooker after we scored a goal? Been waiting for some mention of it - fair whack to the head which dropped one of our players, caused a bit of a push and shove, got the spare umpire out of his chair. Nothing on the MRP (Big surprise). Probably missed by the cameras as it was in advertising time, but maybe on fox (which I dont have...)

C.

Really liked this post!! I was at the game and I am fairly sure jarrad grant got dropped, how this didn't result in at least a free in the centre after the dal goal sums up our luck on the day. Cale hooker was the one who did it I think. The replay doesn't show it but libba and clay come in to remonstrate. I love how libba doesn't stand for us being bullied around!! Same with clay. Absolutey shattered he's out.

[always right]

Really liked this post!! I was at the game and I am fairly sure jarrad grant got dropped, how this didn't result in at least a free in the centre after the dal goal sums up our luck on the day. Cale hooker was the one who did it I think. The replay doesn't show it but libba and clay come in to remonstrate. I love how libba doesn't stand for us being bullied around!! Same with clay. Absolutey shattered he's out.

Off topic but could Libba be our next captain? Has developed into one of our top five players and shows great leadership out on the ground the way he always flies the flag for his team mates. Don't recall his name coming up a lot when we talk about our next captain. Obviously Griff deserves outright favouritism but I reckon Libba is closing the gap.

[SlimPickens]

Off topic but could Libba be our next captain? Has developed into one of our top five players and shows great leadership out on the ground the way he always flies the flag for his team mates. Don't recall his name coming up a lot when we talk about our next captain. Obviously Griff deserves outright favouritism but I reckon Libba is closing the gap.

Has a way to go in his off field professionalism before this would be considered IMO. His improvement this year has been a highlight.

[LostDoggy]

Off topic but could Libba be our next captain? Has developed into one of our top five players and shows great leadership out on the ground the way he always flies the flag for his team mates. Don't recall his name coming up a lot when we talk about our next captain. Obviously Griff deserves outright favouritism but I reckon Libba is closing the gap.

Really worked into VC territory this season. Will and Griff first cabs atm.

[always right]

Has a way to go in his off field professionalism before this would be considered IMO. His improvement this year has been a highlight.

Yeah....I decided not to raise this even though it is an obvious issue. Can't help but think moving him into the captain or vice captain roles might be the making of him.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

We may yet have won this game v Bombers...if they have the points taken off them.

[GVGjr]

We may yet have won this game v Bombers...if they have the points taken off them.

It's looking less likely that the AFL will go down this road. The interesting part is can the hierarchy of the AFL survive if there was an Essendon premiership this year?

[bornadog]

It's looking less likely that the AFL will go down this road. The interesting part is can the hierarchy of the AFL survive if there was an Essendon premiership this year?

This is something the AFL is very worried about.

[Topdog]

Yeah....I decided not to raise this even though it is an obvious issue. Can't help but think moving him into the captain or vice captain roles might be the making of him.

Yep it could be but I think he is at least 2 clean seasons away from being a chance for it.