NAB Cup Round 1

[The Coon Dog]

The Western Bulldogs play Brisbane in round 1 of the NAB Cup.

Where: Manuka Oval, Canberra
When: Sunday 14 February
Time: 4.40pm
Broadcast Coverage: TV - Fox, Radio: SEN

I'll be glued to my TV on Sunday afternoon.

One poster who shall remain nameless asked his partner if she would like to go away for a romantic weekend in Canberra for Valentine's day. Only told her after the flights were booked that the Bulldogs just happened to be there at the same time.

What are you looking forward to seeing? For me its to see the younger players in action. After yesterday I think Liam Jones will get a game, Brodie Moles is a certain starter. Also looking forward to seeing Brennan Stack, don't know why, but there's just something about him.

Both teams will no doubt be missing a few senior players with Black, Brown & Drummond likely to miss for the Lions, whilst Minson, Eagleton, Tiller, Reid, Johnson & Hall are likely absentees.

I know Rocket wont compromise round 1 for the NAB Cup, but it would be nice to start off with a win.

[mighty_west]

I always mainly look forward to watching the younger guys running around, last years new recruits & the likes of Boumann, Stack, players that have had little or no game time in the seniors, hopefully Grant gets a game as well, like many, looking forward to seeing how Jones goes.

Given our lack of success as a club, would be good to go all the way in a NAB Cup at least one time, but round 1 is obviously the goal to get the team right.

The late Sunday start is also a killer, having to wait so long in the weekend when all other games would have been played, might have also put a few people off travelling to it.

But, great to finally have some sort of footy back, and i will be glued to the set with great expectations for the upcoming season proper......bring it on!

[Topdog]

Can't believe it is here already.

I'm just looking forward to footy!

[LostDoggy]

Thats it.. Footy is back.

During Nab Cup unless I have something else to do I tend to watch all the games..even though its not always going to be a good game its the first piece of footy we have seen since that one day in September..

[Dazza]

Really looking forward to it. It'll be good to see a few of the young guys getting a run in the red white and blue.

[LostDoggy]

The Western Bulldogs play Brisbane in round 1 of the NAB Cup.

Where: Manuka Oval, Canberra
When: Sunday 14 February
Time: 4.40pm
Broadcast Coverage: TV - Fox, Radio: SEN

I'll be glued to my TV on Sunday afternoon.

One poster who shall remain nameless asked his partner if she would like to go away for a romantic weekend in Canberra for Valentine's day. Only told her after the flights were booked that the Bulldogs just happened to be there at the same time.

What are you looking forward to seeing? For me its to see the younger players in action. After yesterday I think Liam Jones will get a game, Brodie Moles is a certain starter. Also looking forward to seeing Brennan Stack, don't know why, but there's just something about him.

Both teams will no doubt be missing a few senior players with Black, Brown & Drummond likely to miss for the Lions, whilst Minson, Eagleton, Tiller, Reid, Johnson & Hall are likely absentees.

I know Rocket wont compromise round 1 for the NAB Cup, but it would be nice to start off with a win.

I reckon it would be like that for just about everyone, it's always good the NAB Cup. Because we get to see how far the guys are coming along from Williamstown, and possibly what these new draftees have to offer.

[strebla]

The late start really suits me as i am heading off to a day on the green and now will be able to get home and watch the boys running around for me it will be about Stacky like you Coon Dog he just seems to have that something I love.I am also keen to see Callan Ward I think this year for him will be simmilar to Higgins last year and hope Jones,Markovic and Bouman also get a good run just to make Commrades romantic weekend capped off nicely!

[The Doctor]

My Team would look like this

B: Morris, Markovic, Callan
HB: Wood, Williams, Everitt
C: Griffen, Boyd, Hill
HF: Ward, Grant, Higgins
F: Rose, Jones, Giansiracusa
R: Hudson, Cross, Cooney

Int: Roughead, Boumann, Addison, Moles, Picken, Stack


I haven't chosen most of the older guys or those with recent injury concerns.

[mjp]

One poster who shall remain nameless asked his partner if she would like to go away for a romantic weekend in Canberra for Valentine's day. Only told her after the flights were booked that the Bulldogs just happened to be there at the same time.


Is this the first time the words 'Canberra' and 'Romance' have been used together in a sentence.

Maybe 'Canberra' and 'good luck getting a cab from the airport' or 'Canberra' and "Yeah, that's in xxxxx, about 20mins from here" when referring to any of the little mini-city centres that make any visit a frustration...or even 'Canberra' and 'This is the coldest temperature the world has ever known - are you sure those lakes aren't really there to support the Australian Ice Hockey league'....

A romantic weekend in Canberra hey? Wait till the advertising agencies get hold of this idea...

[jazzadogs]

Didn't realise it was a late start...but I am very happy it is, because I'm working until 5 so I'll be able to watch most of it now.

In response to mighty_west, I'm fairly sure that the first round of the NAB Cup is split over two weeks. So at least we're not next week...

[Dazza]

My Team would look like this

B: Morris, Markovic, Callan
HB: Wood, Williams, Everitt
C: Griffen, Boyd, Hill
HF: Ward, Grant, Higgins
F: Rose, Jones, Giansiracusa
R: Hudson, Cross, Cooney

Int: Roughead, Boumann, Addison, Moles, Picken, Stack


I haven't chosen most of the older guys or those with recent injury concerns.



I'd pretty much go in with the same team just with a few positional changes.

B: Morris, Markovic, Addison
HB: Wood, Williams, Boumann
C: Griffen, Boyd, Everitt
HF: Higgins, Jones, Hill
F: Rose, Grant, Stack
R: Roughead, Ward, Cooney

Int: Moles, Gia, Hudson, Picken, Cross, Callan

Obviously a fair few solid performers have been left out of the side and a few starting on the bench also. But for me the NAB cup is really a good way to get a solid look at your youngsters.

The Half back line looks very tall and quite athletic on paper. Not sure the skills are there though.

The future does look bright though I have to say.

[chef]

I'm looking forward to seeing the younger guys in action, especially Jones, Grant and Boumann(if they all get a game). I don't care if we win or lose as it's only a practice match and we have bigger fish to fry this year.

[AndrewP6]

FOOTY'S BACK!

Whilst the "Who Cares Cup" isn't the sporting highlight of the year, it's good to see the boys back in action, and good to get a glimpse of the young pups... hope a few have a good impact.

[Rocco Jones]

I'm looking forward to seeing the younger guys in action, especially Jones, Grant and Boumann(if they all get a game). I don't care if we win or lose as it's only a practice match and we have bigger fish to fry this year.

Must say I am not a fan of the total 'who cares if we win' view.

All other things being equal (injuries, player development, where we end up playing, rule changes etc) I hope we win.

The thing is, I put these 'other things' well ahead of actually winning.

[chef]

Must say I am not a fan of the total 'who cares if we win' view.

All other things being equal (injuries, player development, where we end up playing, rule changes etc) I hope we win.

The thing is, I put these 'other things' well ahead of actually winning.

Fair enough:).

[LostDoggy]

Footy is footy..and it's back..
Sure, it may be a practice match, but it'll be good to see the boys on the park! =]

[LostDoggy]

It sucks I wont be able to watch the game live as I have a family lunch happening on Sunday.

We are getting Foxtel HD installed on Tuesday as we got rid of the Optus Digital at the end of last season. So I guess I'll just get it recorded on the IQ2 and watch it when I get home. :cool:

[The Coon Dog]

It sucks I wont be able to watch the game live as I have a family lunch happening on Sunday.

A late lunch arkie?

The game starts at 4.40pm.

[Swoop]

Neither side is going to pick their best 22 at this stage so I would still hope that regardless of the squad picked they go out with the mentality of wanting to win the game.

I am certainly looking forward to seeing the younger players perform, for some this may be the only opportunity they have to impress in what is a strong squad with plenty of depth so hopefully some grasp the opportunity and exceed expectations.

[Drunken Bum]

what are the odds of it being shown live in Cambodia?? yeah didn't think so :/

prob take me 3 days to download with the internet connections here too(if i can find it) least i have woof to get me through though :) kind of off topic but thanks for all the training reports too guys

[LostDoggy]

A late lunch arkie?

The game starts at 4.40pm.

I just realised it's not a 2:10pm start! AWESOME! :eek:

[The Coon Dog]

I just realised it's not a 2:10pm start! AWESOME! :eek:

You didn't read the OP! ;)

[aker39]

The remote control is going to get a working over.

I'll be flicking between this game and the Victory v Scum FC.

[Templeton31]

Well I'm pumped coz its one of the two games the Dogs play in Canberra (thanks for the Canberra bash mjp ;)) every year so I've had this day in the diary for a fair while. Also hoping they are training somewhere on Friday as will get along to that with the kids.

[divvydan]

Well I'm pumped coz its one of the two games the Dogs play in Canberra (thanks for the Canberra bash mjp ;)) every year so I've had this day in the diary for a fair while. Also hoping they are training somewhere on Friday as will get along to that with the kids.

Here's a link to all of the activities the Doggies will be doing on the community camp in Canberra.

http://www.sportingpulse.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=1-1051-0-0-0&sID=54793&news_task=DETAIL&articleID=11222905

[LostDoggy]

A late lunch arkie?

The game starts at 4.40pm.

We also have family over on Sunday and families are sometimes hard to get rid of. I wonder if mine will go early so I can watch the footy? ;)

[comrade]

We also have family over on Sunday and families are sometimes hard to get rid of. I wonder if mine will go early so I can watch the footy? ;)

Just turn the TV up to ear splitting levels. They'll get the hint.

[Hotdog60]

We also have family over on Sunday and families are sometimes hard to get rid of. I wonder if mine will go early so I can watch the footy? ;)

I'd just tell them I'm watching the footy so you can either stay, be quite and watch or nick off.:D

It's family you can always be rude to them and they'll still come back and visit.

[Bulldog4life]

We also have family over on Sunday and families are sometimes hard to get rid of. I wonder if mine will go early so I can watch the footy? ;)


As soon as both draws come out all Doggies matches go straight into the diary and unless they are coming to watch the game with us no-one is invited. Heaven forbid those who do the "drop in". Finally after a number of years family and friends now know better than to visit and talk inconsequential claptap while we are trying to watch the footy or even worse still invite us to their place when the doggies are playing.

[The Pie Man]

The remote control is going to get a working over.

I'll be flicking between this game and the Victory v Scum FC.

Likewise, that game couldn't have been set up any better....winner takes the Premiership plate (draw will also be good enough for Melbourne) Bizarre it's the very last game of the regular season.

[mjp]

Well I'm pumped coz its one of the two games the Dogs play in Canberra (thanks for the Canberra bash mjp ;)) every year so I've had this day in the diary for a fair while. Also hoping they are training somewhere on Friday as will get along to that with the kids.

I retract it all if you are offering to collect me from the airport next time I am in town! You know you laughed at the jibe about the temperature...

[Templeton31]

Here's a link to all of the activities the Doggies will be doing on the community camp in Canberra.

http://www.sportingpulse.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=1-1051-0-0-0&sID=54793&news_task=DETAIL&articleID=11222905

thansk divvydan. will try to attend one of the friday activities and saturday morning training at manuka. sweet. :)

[GVGjr]

I'd like to see us take a reasonably strong side to Canberra

Backs
Morris - Lake - Everitt

Half Backs
Callan - Williams - Moles

Centres
Griffen - Boyd - Hill

Half Forwards
Ward - Hahn - Higgins

Forwards
Jones - Grant - Giansiracusa

Rucks
Hudson - Cross - Cooney

Interchange
Roughead - Picken - Stack - Wood - Markovic - Addison - Rose

I want the experienced Giansiracusa to play alongside of the two young key forwards.
Markovic to play at CHF when Hahn needs to be rested.
Picken to back-up Cooney and Cross. Moles can also do this when Wood is played across the half back line.

[Templeton31]

I retract it all if you are offering to collect me from the airport next time I am in town! You know you laughed at the jibe about the temperature...

I gotta admit your bashing was a cut above the usual cliched porn and fireworks boredom. And the Ice Hockey League was a nice touch.:D

[Hotdog60]

I'd like to see us take a reasonably strong side to Canberra

Backs
Morris - Lake - Everitt

Half Backs
Callan - Williams - Moles

Centres
Griffen - Boyd - Hill

Half Forwards
Ward - Hahn - Higgins

Forwards
Jones - Grant - Giansiracusa

Rucks
Hudson - Cross - Cooney

Interchange
Roughead - Picken - Stack - Wood - Markovic - Addison - Rose

I want the experienced Giansiracusa to play alongside of the two young key forwards.
Markovic to play at CHF when Hahn needs to be rested.
Picken to back-up Cooney and Cross. Moles can also do this when Wood is played across the half back line.

Looks a good line up GVGjr, watching the NAB lauch video Bob Murphy said Hall could be in the mix but he wouldn't commit to anything.

Do you think they may try to get more match time into Barry before round 1, as he missed half a season.

[GVGjr]

Looks a good line up GVGjr, watching the NAB lauch video Bob Murphy said Hall could be in the mix but he wouldn't commit to anything.

Do you think they may try to get more match time into Barry before round 1, as he missed half a season.

If Hall is OK to play then either Jones or Grant is probably not needed. Personally I wouldn't risk him.

[LostDoggy]

what are the odds of it being shown live in Cambodia?? yeah didn't think so :/

prob take me 3 days to download with the internet connections here too(if i can find it) least i have woof to get me through though :) kind of off topic but thanks for all the training reports too guys

Go to the Gym Bar in PP and ask Randall to get for you. If he can't get it live he'll more than likely be able to produce it on a DVD.

[chef]

How many are on the bench for this game and do they still use two subs?

[Go_Dogs]

I want the experienced Giansiracusa to play alongside of the two young key forwards.
Markovic to play at CHF when Hahn needs to be rested.
Picken to back-up Cooney and Cross. Moles can also do this when Wood is played across the half back line.

Nice work. Looks like a fairly solid line up on paper.

Everitt to get the Gilbee/Harbrow running role off the back half with Moles?

Is Boumann a chance to get a game? I think I'd prefer to see him play over Rose based on the reports over the pre-season.

Great to see you've got Hill up the field. I'd almost like to see him play off a HBF if Gilbee and Harbrow are both rested.

[GVGjr]

Nice work. Looks like a fairly solid line up on paper.

Everitt to get the Gilbee/Harbrow running role off the back half with Moles?

Is Boumann a chance to get a game? I think I'd prefer to see him play over Rose based on the reports over the pre-season.

Great to see you've got Hill up the field. I'd almost like to see him play off a HBF if Gilbee and Harbrow are both rested.

I thought Everitt might be needed to mind the resting ruckman if they are moved up forward,
Boumann would be a great chance but obviously he and Rose are very different types. My mail is that Boumann will play.

[chef]

FB Morris Lake Wood
HB Hargrave Williams Ward
C Gilbee Higgins Everitt
HF Hill Murphy Gia
FF Stack Hahn Grant
R Hudson Cooney Griffen
INT(from) Boyd Cross Addison Moles Jones Addison Roughead Boumann Callan Markovic Rose Panos Picken Mulligan Tutt

Rested Johnno, Aker, Eagleton, Hall, Cordy

Wow, it's hard to fit them all into one team and I'm not going to be surprised if we win this thing.

[LostDoggy]

what are the odds of it being shown live in Cambodia?? yeah didn't think so :/

prob take me 3 days to download with the internet connections here too(if i can find it) least i have woof to get me through though :) kind of off topic but thanks for all the training reports too guys

Try Haiti eh. :)

I'm going to be over there for the next few months (up to half a year) working on the Phase 2 reconstruction, so WOOF will have to be my main footy fix, although we'll also be up in Miami some of the time so hopefully there'll be some sports bars up that way.

[LostDoggy]

Go to the Gym Bar in PP and ask Randall to get for you. If he can't get it live he'll more than likely be able to produce it on a DVD.

That's amazing info. WOOF comes through again! Wouldn't happen to have a contact in Haiti/Miami would you?

[LostDoggy]

When will the squad be named?

[The Coon Dog]

How many are on the bench for this game and do they still use two subs?

6 on the bench who can go on/come off as per usual. 2 subs who can come on, but the players they replace can't return.

[chef]

Try Haiti eh. :)

I'm going to be over there for the next few months (up to half a year) working on the Phase 2 reconstruction, so WOOF will have to be my main footy fix, although we'll also be up in Miami some of the time so hopefully there'll be some sports bars up that way.

Hope your back by September.


6 on the bench who can go on/come off as per usual. 2 subs who can come on, but the players they replace can't return.

Thanks TCD.

[LostDoggy]

Try Haiti eh. :)

I'm going to be over there for the next few months (up to half a year) working on the Phase 2 reconstruction, so WOOF will have to be my main footy fix, although we'll also be up in Miami some of the time so hopefully there'll be some sports bars up that way.

Can't you get internet access and watch matches on myp2p?|

[Dogs 24/7]

I thought Everitt might be needed to mind the resting ruckman if they are moved up forward,
Boumann would be a great chance but obviously he and Rose are very different types. My mail is that Boumann will play.

Is Everitt capable of handling resting ruckman? Surely Boumann would be a better option.

[stefoid]

Given what someone said on the bff about williams 'brittle ankles' you would think that Rocekt will want to geta real good look at anyone capable of holding down a key defensive post, which includes Boumann, Marcovic and Mulligan.

Obviously they dont trust williams body at all and have put multiple contigency plans in place with respect to elevating Mulligan and recruiting Marcovic.

[Swoop]

I understand the thought process completely GVGjr with regards to Everitt in defence however I would have hoped after the solid preseason Everitt has put in this would be a great opportunity to trial Everitt through the midfield and see how he goes. If we give him the opportunity it could be a good reward for his effort and boost his confidence levels as well, infact they should match him up on Brennan and tell him that he is the type of player he needs to try and emulate - I believe it would be a good learning curve for him for better or worse.

I also would prefer to give the opportunity to the likes Boumann & Markovic to put their hands up and take the responsibility of taking the resting ruckman as they may need to be called upon throughout the season if injury strikes.

It all makes for interesting selection dilemmas and it's certainly better to have more options as oppossed to less, time will tell how it all unfolds.

[Mantis]

I thought Everitt might be needed to mind the resting ruckman if they are moved up forward, Boumann would be a great chance but obviously he and Rose are very different types. My mail is that Boumann will play.

Who would Williams pick up?

With Brown being rested I would think that Fev will play out of the square and one of their ruckman would play at CHF, perhaps Cornelius might be another option. Maybe even their gun recruit in Staker could fill that role.

[LostDoggy]

Try Haiti eh. :)

I'm going to be over there for the next few months (up to half a year) working on the Phase 2 reconstruction, so WOOF will have to be my main footy fix, although we'll also be up in Miami some of the time so hopefully there'll be some sports bars up that way.

We work in the same industry Lantern. Good luck in Haiti.

[LostDoggy]

FB Morris Lake Wood
HB Hargrave Williams Ward
C Gilbee Higgins Everitt
HF Hill Murphy Gia
FF Stack Hahn Grant
R Hudson Cooney Griffen
INT(from) Boyd Cross Addison Moles Jones Addison Roughead Boumann Callan Markovic Rose Panos Picken Mulligan Tutt

Rested Johnno, Aker, Eagleton, Hall, Cordy

Wow, it's hard to fit them all into one team and I'm not going to be surprised if we win this thing.

I reckon it should be like this

FB Morris Lake Boumann
HB Hargrave Williams Gilbee
C Everitt Higgins Griffen
HF Gia Murphy Ward
FF Stack Hall ( *Jones ) Hahn
R Hudson Cooney Boyd

INT Cross Roughead Addison Picken *Callan Wood
SUB Grant Moles

*If Hall plays then drop Callan for Jones

[Mantis]

I reckon it should be like this

FB Morris Lake Boumann
HB Hargrave Williams Gilbee
C Everitt Higgins Griffen
HF Gia Murphy Ward
FF Stack Hall ( *Jones ) Hahn
R Hudson Cooney Boyd

INT Cross Roughead Addison Picken *Callan Wood
SUB Grant Moles

*If Hall plays then drop Callan for Jones

I know it's tough to fit everyone, but you have missed Hill who one would think would definitely play.

[LostDoggy]

I know it's tough to fit everyone, but you have missed Hill who one would think would definitely play.

So i did! It was hard to get a good mix!

[Twodogs]

Maybe even their gun recruit in Staker could fill that role.


Staker is just one of several gun recruits who will bridge the gap between the Lions making up the numbers in the finals and winning the flag.

[Twodogs]

Go to the Gym Bar in PP and ask Randall to get for you. If he can't get it live he'll more than likely be able to produce it on a DVD.



It all sounds a bit 'Hernando's hideawayish"


Just knock three times and whisper low,
that you and I were sent by Joe.
Then Strike a match and you will know
you're in Hernando's Hideaway OLE

[LostDoggy]

Go to the Gym Bar in PP and ask Randall to get for you. If he can't get it live he'll more than likely be able to produce it on a DVD.

You forgot to include when you meet Randall tell him "Benny sent me" :D

And check that nobody saw you enter the joint.

[Go_Dogs]

I understand the thought process completely GVGjr with regards to Everitt in defence however I would have hoped after the solid preseason Everitt has put in this would be a great opportunity to trial Everitt through the midfield and see how he goes. If we give him the opportunity it could be a good reward for his effort and boost his confidence levels as well, infact they should match him up on Brennan and tell him that he is the type of player he needs to try and emulate - I believe it would be a good learning curve for him for better or worse.

He is such a versatile player that it has probably worked against him a bit over the past few years of development.

I certainly can see the merits in your idea, and I think it's a role that Everitt could do very well in (the Brennan role). It's also probably an 'easier' position to play at this stage for him, as he still might not have the core strength to match key forwards, and it allows him to utilise his biggest strengths, being his foot skills and his running ability for a big man.

I also see merits in playing him in the back half. It would really allow us to test the waters and see just how far Everitt has come with his core strength and his body position in the back half. I think playing that "3rd tall" (mjp's favourite non-existent position behind wing :p ) role that a bloke like Andy Otten did very well in last year, could be a go for Everitt.

He'll certainly be one to watch with a lot of interest over the NAB Cup.

[divvydan]

Official Squads:

WESTERN BULLDOGS
1 Jarrad Grant
2 Robert Murphy
3 Andrejs Everitt
4 Daniel Cross
5 Matthew Boyd
7 Shaun Higgins
8 Mitch Hahn
9 Lindsay Gilbee
12 Tom Williams
13 Daniel Giansiracusa
14 Callan Ward
15 Ben Hudson
16 Ryan Griffen
17 Adam Cooney
18 Brennan Stack
19 Liam Jones
20 Josh Hill
22 Dylan Addison
23 Jordan Roughead
31 James Mulligan
32 Jarrad Boumann
33 Tim Callan
36 Brian Lake
37 Lukas Markovic
38 Dale Morris
40 Jarrod Harbrow
42 Liam Picken
44 Brodie Moles
47 Patrick Rose

BRISBANE
1. Mitch Clark
4. Travis Johnstone
5. Brendan Fevola
7. Jed Adcock
8. Matt Austin
10. Daniel Rich
11. Justin Sherman
12. James Hawksley
14. Brent Staker
17. Jared Brennan
18. Todd Banfield
19. Jamie Charman
21. Daniel Merrett
22. Tom Collier
23. Matthew Leuenberger
24. Joel Patfull
26. Ryan Harwood
27. Josh Dyson (Rookie)
29. Andrew Raines
30. Jack Redden
31. James Polkinghorne
32. Cheynee Stiller
33. Amon Buchanan
34. Jesse O’Brien
35. Michael Rischitelli
38. Tom Rockliff
43. Claye Beams (Rookie)
44. Aaron Cornelius
45. Sean Yoshiura (Rookie)

From: http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/nab-cup-squads/story-e6frf9jf-1225828806451

29 players there, will need to cut 3 more.

[Go_Dogs]

Is Wood injured? Thought he would have been a lock. Also interesting that Daniels isn't getting a run as he played last year and went OK in not many minutes and from most reports has been doing fairly well on the training track.

Still. A fairly strong side and good to see a few new faces getting their opportunities.

[Mantis]

Notables missing from Brisbane include Power, Brown, Black & Drummond. These would account for 4 of their best 6 or 8 players.

At a quick count we are missing the old guys (Johnson, Eagle, Aker & Hall) as well as Minson & Hargrave.

[Mantis]

Is Wood injured? Thought he would have been a lock. Also interesting that Daniels isn't getting a run as he played last year and went OK in not many minutes and from most reports has been doing fairly well on the training track.

Still. A fairly strong side and good to see a few new faces getting their opportunities.

Daniels did his hammy a couple of weeks back, should be back at training shortly.

Wood copped a knock (nothing serious) in the intra-club and is being rested.

[Go_Dogs]

Daniels did his hammy a couple of weeks back, should be back at training shortly.

Wood copped a knock (nothing serious) in the intra-club and is being rested.

Cheers Mantis.

Hopefully we'll get to see Wood in action week 2.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Really looking forward to seeing Boumann play against AFL opposition. He's still got obvious flaws but he's improved quite a bit over the past 12 months and this is a good test for him moving forward.

Also another big step forward for Jones who hasn't played too much senior footy at all. After forcing his way into this game, it'll be interesting to see if he can show any of the signs we all saw last week.

A very good chance for Markovic to make an early claim that he's capable of playing a role, ditto Mulligan (on Fev?) and Moles who we've been hearing a lot about.

Can't wait.

[Doc26]

I'm hoping Jason Tutt gets a crack. Was quite impressed in the intraclub with his run and carry and would like to see him go round in the NAB cup.

[GVGjr]

I'm hoping Jason Tutt gets a crack. Was quite impressed in the intraclub with his run and carry and would like to see him go round in the NAB cup.

I'm probably of the view that he should wait his turn. He looks promising but he can still learn a lot just going along for the trip. I would be nice for him to play in front of his locals.

[The Coon Dog]

I'm hoping Jason Tutt gets a crack. Was quite impressed in the intraclub with his run and carry and would like to see him go round in the NAB cup.

It would have been good to see him play in Canberra, but he won't be; he's not been picked in the squad.

[mjp]

I'm probably of the view that he should wait his turn. He looks promising but he can still learn a lot just going along for the trip. I would be nice for him to play in front of his locals.

Is he (Tutt) even a certainty to play seniors for Willi?

[GVGjr]

Is he (Tutt) even a certainty to play seniors for Willi?

Probably not. I'd say he might split his time between the seniors and reserves.

[gohardorgohome]

I dont care at all about the result of this game, however I'll take a look to check out the form of the players.

I'm a life long doggies fan but will record the game on IQ and watch the Melbourne Victory live play off for tops spot.

[LostDoggy]

WESTERN BULLDOGS

B: 40 Jarrod Harbrow 36 Brian Lake 38 Dale Morris
HB: 9 Lindsay Gilbee 12 Tom Williams 42 Liam Picken
C: 14 Callan Ward 5 Matthew Boyd 4 Daniel Cross
HF: 20 Josh Hill 8 Mitch Hahn 7 Shaun Higgins
F: 18 Brennan Stack 2 Robert Murphy 13 Daniel Giansiracusa
R: 15 Ben Hudson 16 Ryan Griffen 17 Adam Cooney

INT: 1 Jarrad Grant 3 Andrejs Everitt 19 Liam Jones 22 Dylan Addison 23 Jordan Roughead 31 James Mulligan 32 Jarrad Boumann 33 Tim Callan 37 Lukas Markovic 44 Brodie Moles 47 Patrick Rose

Just thought i'd put together a side out of the squad to see how it would line up. Its a very strong side with probably the exception of the forward line. Its missing Hall, Johnson and Aker so you'd kind of expect it. But it still looks bloody strong.


BRISBANE

B: 7. Jed Adcock 21. Daniel Merrett 29. Andrew Raines
HB: 12. James Hawksley 24. Joel Patfull 22. Tom Collier
C: 10. Daniel Rich 31. James Polkinghorne 30. Jack Redden
HF: 4. Travis Johnstone 14. Brent Staker 11. Justin Sherman
F: 1. Mitch Clark 5. Brendan Fevola 33. Amon Buchanan
R: 23. Matthew Leuenberger 17. Jared Brennan 32. Cheynee Stiller

INT: 8. Matt Austin 18. Todd Banfield 19. Jamie Charman 26. Ryan Harwood 27. Josh Dyson (Rookie) 34. Jesse O’Brien 35. Michael Rischitelli 38. Tom Rockliff 43. Claye Beams (Rookie) 44. Aaron Cornelius 45. Sean Yoshiura (Rookie)

[boydogs]

Really looking forward to seeing Boumann play against AFL opposition. He's still got obvious flaws but he's improved quite a bit over the past 12 months and this is a good test for him moving forward.

Also another big step forward for Jones who hasn't played too much senior footy at all. After forcing his way into this game, it'll be interesting to see if he can show any of the signs we all saw last week.

A very good chance for Markovic to make an early claim that he's capable of playing a role, ditto Mulligan (on Fev?) and Moles who we've been hearing a lot about.

Can't wait.

I reckon you might have just named the 5 most likely to miss, with 3 still to be cut.
Lake, Morris and Williams are all named, so I can't see all of Mulligan, Boumann and Markovic in there. Johnno, Hall and Aker missing will probably mean Grant, Stack and Jones get a go. Addison, Callan and Rose other possibilities to miss IMO

The ones that miss out might get a run in the other games, particularly if we get knocked out

[GVGjr]

Manuka race on ahead of AFL clash

AFL officials will meet in Canberra today to decide whether the Manuka Oval pitch is soft enough for Sunday's pre-season match between the Western Bulldogs and Brisbane Lions.

Manuka Oval curator Brad van Dam has been working over-time this week to soften the middle of the ground to meet AFL standards.

Van Dam has only 10 days to turn to pitch used for last week's Prime Minister's XI cricket match into a suitable centre square for the AFL pre-season fixture.

AFL officials will test the hardness of the pitch with a clegg hammer and van Dam was confident the ground would be soft enough for the match.

''It's not where we want it to be yet, the AFL will test it [today] and give us some pointers with their preferred range of hardness.''

After the match, he will need to prepare the oval for ACT cricket matches the following weekend.

There are at least two cases of AFL players receiving out-of-court settlements for injuries incurred on centre wicket areas.

As of yesterday more than 2000 tickets had been sold for the game.

Last year's pre-season cup fixture between the Sydney Swans and Port Adelaide attracted 5500 fans, and Buchanan expected a similar number on Sunday.

For more on this story, see today's Canberra Times (http://www.canberratimes.com.au).

http://www.canberratimes.com.au/multimedia/images/large/697118.jpg

[GVGjr]

I'm going with an easy win to the Dogs despite a patch where Fevola getting 3 goals in 5 minutes.

Dogs by 24 points with our three best players of Boyd, Moles and Murphy.

[chef]

Dogs by 36 for me with Cooney back to his best and Grant and Jones kicking 6 goals between them.

[LostDoggy]

Some nice running goals from 50 out from the coon dog and griff would be pleasant.

[azabob]

Dogs by 36 for me with Cooney back to his best and Grant and Jones kicking 6 goals between them.

Love your optimism! I think we will be lucky if they get six kicks between them!

[KT31]

Dogs by 48 and Griff first gaol and Lake BOG.

[Scorlibo]

Dogs by 23 with Lindsay Gilbee BOG and Jarrad Grant to kick 3 encouraging goals.:)

[Bulldog Revolution]

I'm just hoping we can win this convincingly and the youngsters show some real progress from last year

[comrade]

Can anyone actually confirm whether the venue is being changed, because I'm not over the moon at the prospect of going all the way to Canberra to watch the game in a pub!

:)

[The Coon Dog]

Can anyone actually confirm whether the venue is being changed, because I'm not over the moon at the prospect of going all the way to Canberra to watch the game in a pub!

:)

Those who would expect to know haven't heard anything & would have expected to have heard by now if there was a change.

[LostDoggy]

I am looking forward to going to Manuka Oval very much, but to be honest I'd rather not see them play at all if it saves any of our boys from serious injury.

I am hopping on a plane this arvo despite thunderstorms forecast in Canberra right around landing time :/ considering driving instead to save myself from serious injury!

Dogs to win by 25.

[LostDoggy]

Dogs by 12. Gia first goal and hopefully no injuries..

[comrade]

Those who would expect to know haven't heard anything & would have expected to have heard by now if there was a change.

Good, because if I have to spend an entire weekend in Canberra* without football at the end of it I may just kill myself - though I'm hoping the Van Gogh exhibition is enjoyable.

* No offence to Canberra residents :)

[LostDoggy]

Dogs by 28 Everitt BOG and Roughead to be the standout ruckman in the game

[LostDoggy]

Dogs by 23, Higgins BOG, Murphy to kick 5.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Good, because if I have to spend an entire weekend in Canberra* without football at the end of it I may just kill myself - though I'm hoping the Van Gogh exhibition is enjoyable.

* No offence to Canberra residents :)

It'd be a case of irony if that happened after you planned the romantic evening .... to watch the football. :D

Made me laugh. I'm sure the Canberra residents can see the funny side of it too.

[comrade]

It'd be a case of irony if that happened after you planned the romantic evening .... to watch the football. :D

Made me laugh. I'm sure the Canberra residents can see the funny side of it too.

I’m asking for trouble, aren’t I?

[EasternWest]

One poster who shall remain nameless asked his partner if she would like to go away for a romantic weekend in Canberra for Valentine's day.

Well, more fool her. She should have smelled a rat at the normally mutually exclusive terms "Canberra" and "Romantic".

I like Canberra, but the word romance just doesn't spring to mind at the thought of it. Roundabouts and kangaroos maybe, but definitely not romance.

For mine, I'm keen to lay eyes on Boumann and Jones. And DFA, back in the red, white and blue where he belongs!

[Dazza]

Dogs by 26 with jones kicking 2 goals higgins b.o.g

[LostDoggy]

Dogs making a mark on 2010 starting with the Nab Cup. Dogs by 49, Cooney BOG

[boydogs]

Dogs by 12, Gia BOG
Any word on final teams?

[lemmon]

Dogs by 14, Higgins to be best on and Murph to kick three

[AndrewP6]

Dogs by 11, Higgins BOG, Murph 2 goals.

[LostDoggy]

Natanui almost has a spot in my dreamteam.

[Rocco Jones]

Natanui almost has a spot in my dreamteam.

He seemed quite excited after the game.

[Wing_Nut]

He seemed quite excited after the game.

About his inclusion in Furtanken's dreamteam? Excitable kid... :D

[Dry Rot]

Looks like it's going to be a pretty wet ground - have we done much pre-season training under these conditions?

Should limit Fev's influence I suppose.

[Mantis]

Looks like it's going to be a pretty wet ground - have we done much pre-season training under these conditions?

It hasn't rained much in Melb so I doubt it.


Should limit Fev's influence I suppose.

He only averages 2.1 goals a game against us (lowest in the comp besides Carlton ;) ) so we haven't got a lot to be worried about.... Morris owns him.

[Rocco Jones]

He only averages 2.1 goals a game against us (lowest in the comp besides Carlton ;) ) so we haven't got a lot to be worried about.... Morris owns him.

That's it. Our only issues with Fev are when Lake has played on him.

[Mantis]

That's it. Our only issues with Fev are when Lake has played on him.

Yep. Fev has kicked 21 goals on 10 games against us which includes the 6 he kicked on Lake in 2008.

[bulldogsman]

I'd like to see Boumann on Fev, we know what Morris can do. Last year I remember hearing Boumann played on Nick Sautner and did a very good job. Really seemed to set up his season, would like to see him challenged once again.

[BulldogBelle]

Yep. Fev has kicked 21 goals on 10 games against us which includes the 6 he kicked on Lake in 2008.

Wow, really? Geez, I had it figured that we were his favourite team to maul time and time again. It always feels like we can barely contain him. But that's the opposite - AND he was their single avenue to goal.

[Before I Die]

Wow, really? Geez, I had it figured that we were his favourite team to maul time and time again. It always feels like we can barely contain him. But that's the opposite - AND he was their single avenue to goal.

Paradoxically our success against Carlton has been very limited over this same timeline even though we have generally been placed higher on the ladder. I don't expect Carlton to suffer too much from his departure.

[GVGjr]

Looks like it's going to be a pretty wet ground - have we done much pre-season training under these conditions?

Should limit Fev's influence I suppose.

No. It's been a very dry summer.

[Templeton31]

Yeh just to confirm it will be wet. Been raining pretty much all day and the BOM is predicting as much as 100mm of rain for Canberra over the weekend. Unheard of really. Ground should be ok but PM'sXI pitch in middle of ground will probably be muddy. Will have been 10 days since cricket match. Theres certainly no talk of moving the game though.

FWIW saw Rocket this morn getting off same plane as my parents came up on. No chance for chats though. ;)

[GVGjr]

Yeh just to confirm it will be wet. Been raining pretty much all day and the BOM is predicting as much as 100mm of rain for Canberra over the weekend. Unheard of really. Ground should be ok but PM'sXI pitch in middle of ground will probably be muddy. Will have been 10 days since cricket match. Theres certainly no talk of moving the game though.

FWIW saw Rocket this morn getting off same plane as my parents came up on. No chance for chats though. ;)


It's funny because I read a report earlier in the week sating that the curator was concerned about how hard the ground was. I guess he could have held back from the watering.

[Templeton31]

It's funny because I read a report earlier in the week sating that the curator was concerned about how hard the ground was. I guess he could have held back from the watering.

Yeh the other thing too is the 440pm kick off is also meant to be to avoid the heat. But of course now with the dark grey conditions and no lights at Manuka it could be a bit dim by the end of the match!

[Sockeye Salmon]

I'd like to see Boumann on Fev, we know what Morris can do. Last year I remember hearing Boumann played on Nick Sautner and did a very good job. Really seemed to set up his season, would like to see him challenged once again.

Fev might have an extra trick or two that Sautner might not have, talent perhaps?

[Drunken Bum]

Go to the Gym Bar in PP and ask Randall to get for you. If he can't get it live he'll more than likely be able to produce it on a DVD.

cheers for that Shorty, not sure will be able to make it there, Chinese New Year is well under way here now but is good to know for future reference

[Mantis]

It's been raining all night in Canberra and it's still falling.

Might not be much of a spectacle.

[Topdog]

Fev might have an extra trick or two that Sautner might not have, talent perhaps?

Kinda what I was thinking too.

[Twodogs]

Looks like it's going to be a pretty wet ground - have we done much pre-season training under these conditions?




It's rained once here in Melbourne in the last 30 years. That was thursday afternoon/evening and it bucketed down but the boys had probably already left for Canberra by then.


It rained so hard this is some youtube video taken on thursday afternoon of people swimming down Flinders street in the CBD;


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8k1YwZVl7w

[GVGjr]

It's been raining all night in Canberra and it's still falling.

Might not be much of a spectacle.

Hopefully if the foot skills cant be as good as normal we might see a tougher more accountable style with some strong tackling.

[Templeton31]

Hopefully if the foot skills cant be as good as normal we might see a tougher more accountable style with some strong tackling.

still raining in case your wondering. Been raining continuously since some time friday night. I think any chance of spectacle going way down hill. i will be surprised if not pools of water on the oval....

[Bulldog Revolution]

It will be interesting to see if the weather makes the result tight or lopsided

[The Coon Dog]

To give some perspective, click the link to a live webcam of the construction of Canberra Airport.

Link (http://www.captiveye-canair.com/camera/camera.htm)

Additional link of other things (http://www.actewagl.com.au/webcam.aspx)

[LostDoggy]

I just hope there is no injuries to any of our players, ground too hard and now too wet - is concerning.:(

[comrade]

Can confirm that it is bloody wet in Canberra.

[Mantis]

The rain looks like it has almost passed.

See here (http://www.bom.gov.au/weather/radar/) ....The rain band stretched to Wagga about an hour go.

In saying that they have had over 2 inches of rain in the last 24 hours so we can expect a wet track.

[comrade]

Yes, rain has stopped completely. Just having a cold Stella with the Lady Comrade before heading to the ground.

[Mofra]

Heading to a Bulldogs Pub to watch it shortly, Valentines Day lunch almost over. Will be a interesting to watch Jones & Grant in the wet conditions against AFL quality defenders.

[vho]

Hey guys i have a live stream for this match, tell me here if you'd like a link, it's a private stream.

[AndrewP6]

Late change, Rocket has dropped himself! Like many teams, they're rotating the coaches during the Who Cares Cup, and today Leon Cameron has the box seat. Rocket's looking after the midfield, and he humorously noted "I hope they do well!"

[The Coon Dog]

Boumann & Grant are the 2 subs. Whoever they replace cannot come back on.

[Dad1]

Hey guys i have a live stream for this match, tell me here if you'd like a link, it's a private stream.

yes please i canot get sen to load

[AndrewP6]

That rule about a nine pointer after a 50m penalty is stupid. And this game is gonna be crap, I reckon.

[LostDoggy]

Too wet..it looks very scrappy..

[vho]

yes please i canot get sen to load

PM'd

[vho]

These commentators are really getting to me, it's a monsoon out there FFS.

[GVGjr]

Even allowing for the conditions that wasn't a good quarter by any stretch of the imagination.
Dropped marks and poor decisions happened too often.

[AndrewP6]

Even allowing for the conditions that wasn't a good quarter by any stretch of the imagination.
Dropped marks and poor decisions happened too often.

Agreed, they've got to be better.

[G-Mo77]

That rule about a nine pointer after a 50m penalty is stupid. And this game is gonna be crap, I reckon.

Did you watch the game last night? I think all three 9 pointers were from 50M penalties. It doesn't help that these idiots are so trigger happy with their penalties. The one Callan was pinged for was laughable.

It's pretty hard to judge who has been good or bad in these conditions. Perfect day for a guy like Picken, he, Cross and Gia have probably been our best so far. Williams has looked OK.

[The Coon Dog]

I hate it when we play Brisbane & Alistair Lynch commentates.

[LostDoggy]

I hate it when we play Brisbane & Alistair Lynch commentates.

I hate Lynch commentating full stop, boring boring person.

[LostDoggy]

Like the look of Moles - seems AFL ready.

[AndrewP6]

Moles looks alright, one positive so far.

[G-Mo77]

Like the look of Moles - seems AFL ready.

Yeah, he's been really good today.

[Mantis]

Our lack of care with our kicking has been noticeable and has meant for far too many turn-overs.

As with others I have thought that Moles has been impressive. He has taken the correct option and used the ball well.

The conditions make for a real slog which is disappointing.

[lemmon]

Would appreciate the link thanks vho

[GVGjr]

Our lack of care with our kicking has been noticeable and has meant for far too many turn-overs.

As with others I have thought that Moles has been impressive. He has taken the correct option and used the ball well.

The conditions make for a real slog which is disappointing.

Granted the conditions will make it a slog we aren't handling it anywhere near as well as we should.

[G-Mo77]

Cross is BOG right now IMO.

Picken, Harbrow, Moles, Gia and Hahn were all pretty solid in the first half.

The team just look like the game is just going to come to them. They've got to work harder and make some better decisions when they have the ball. I'm not to fussed on the result but would like to see a bit more consitancy in the second half. They've played well in spurts and then fallen away soon after.

[AndrewP6]

Brains trust at the AFL have determined that the 3rd and 4th quarters will be 20 mins with no time on, to avoid a repeat of the "playing in the dark" fiasco. I know it's only the NAB Cup, but this sort of on-the-fly decision making reeks of amateurism. IMO, if the ground doesn't have lighting, matches there must be played earlier. They get all year to work this stuff out.

[GVGjr]

Everitt is frustrating me. I think that's 3 easy marks he's dropped. I know the conditions are slippery but that one he missed in the 3rd quarter he had no one around him.

[G-Mo77]

Much better effort that quarter. I had us gone at half time and I can't believe we are actually leading with one quarter to go.

[Dry Rot]

For those with Fox, thoughts on Jones?

[AndrewP6]

For those with Fox, thoughts on Jones?

Kicked a nice goal, haven't seen him do much else.

[GVGjr]

For those with Fox, thoughts on Jones?

Done OK, missed a sitter though

[OLD SCRAGGer]

Personally I think conditions are making it VERY hard to judge how young guys are going, let's see how they go in dryer conditions

[lemmon]

Well, a wins a win I guess. Round 2 here we come

[LostDoggy]

Higgins came off late in the game... It looked bad initially on tv and was in hands of trainers, but he got up and was going to play on before getting taken off. Hoping it was just a dead leg as he got smoothered mid-kick..

[LostDoggy]

Higgins went down.
looked very bad, and he stayed down for a while, but he got up and apparently wanted to stay on.
hopefully he should be fine with a week or 2 off.

Moles was good, best disposal on the field, Roughy showed a lot

[Rance Fan]

Moles, Roughead showed good signs. Team - Patchy performance in terrible conditions.
Morris,Gilbee,Cross my best 3
Like Everitt and Hahns performance up forward, still not sure with Stack...forgive due to the conditions
Should be a good match up next against the Hawks

[chef]

For those with Fox, thoughts on Jones?

Looks the goods IMO, just needs more weight and better fitness. Grant and Everitt were alright up forward in the second half too.

[Dazza]

Hard to judge the younger players with the slippery conditions but I thought they all played reasonably well without looking lost (give or take Jones first set shot at goal).

Everitt impressed me this match with the way he threw his body around. Looked more desperate at the ball than last year I thought.

Moles was very good.

As a whole the game was sloppy and not very enjoyable.

[LostDoggy]

Jones got muscled out of alot of contest, which you would expect. I think he went for a monster of a hanger in second quarter and looks quick with a good leap. Hard at many of the ground balls which was great.

Everitt looked fitter, stronger and hungrier. He made good space at time. However both he and Grant were frustrating - both well skilled, perhaps not their day today in the wet though. I noticed a couple of contests they weren't as hard in as others. Possibly unfair given that the ground was under two inches of water and didn't want to get injured.

Does anyone else think Callan may struggle for a game this year given Moles good performance?

[LostDoggy]

Jones got muscled out of alot of contest, which you would expect. I think he went for a monster of a hanger in second quarter and looks quick with a good leap. Hard at many of the ground balls which was great.

Everitt looked fitter, stronger and hungrier. He made good space at time. However both he and Grant were frustrating - both well skilled, perhaps not their day today in the wet though. I noticed a couple of contests they weren't as hard in as others. Possibly unfair given that the ground was under two inches of water and didn't want to get injured.

Does anyone else think Callan may struggle for a game this year given Moles good performance?



Ward or Tim?

as good as he was, Ward will get a game over him.
Tim won't play unless 3 or so players go down

[mighty_west]

For those with Fox, thoughts on Jones?

I thought he did ok considering the conditions, Roughead as well, but the poor delivery given the heavy ball plus trying to mark a cake of soap.

Quite like Everitt up forward, worth persisting with imo, Moles also impressive.

[mighty_west]

Does anyone else think Callan may struggle for a game this year given Moles good performance?

Touch wood that we stay reletively injury free, there should be quite a few players fighting for positions, just on the fringe, Timmy Callan, Moles, Addison, Wood, Reid etc etc.

[bulldog]

I think Brodie Moles is going to put a lot of pressure on the midfielders this year which is going to be a great sign for us as a team.
Thought Jarrad Grant even though didnt get much of it looked could to me.

[Dazza]

With Moles what's the ruling with elevating rookies? Is it only when there is a player with an injury they can be promoted or could a player be dropped for bad form?

[GVGjr]

With Moles what's the ruling with elevating rookies? Is it only when there is a player with an injury they can be promoted or could a player be dropped for bad form?


For the home and away season there needs to be a player placed on the long term injury list

[Drunken Bum]

Managed to take over the TV in my guesthouse and watch the game live here in Cambodia which i was pretty surprised and happy about.
Geez it's hard to try and explain the rules to people, especially when watching the who cares cup and i dont even know what half the rules are myself. Then to get them to understand that the rules are different for the real season. As for the decision to change the length of last two Q's randomly because no one had the sense to start the game earlier in case it gets dark as it invariably does, i'm very glad no-one asked me about that because i would have been embarrassed to let them know how unprofessional our league can be sometimes

Any word on Higgins?

[divvydan]

With Moles what's the ruling with elevating rookies? Is it only when there is a player with an injury they can be promoted or could a player be dropped for bad form?

We currently have 2 veterans (Johnno and Eagle) so we can't promote a rookie until we put someone on the Long-Term Injury List. However, after Round 11, a rookie can be promoted regardless of anyone being on the LTI list. You can only promote for long term injuries, not for form.

[Dazza]

Thanks for clearing that up divvy dan

[Rocco Jones]

Any update on Higgins' injury?

[hujsh]

Strange that Jones seemed to take his set shot from about 15-20m behind the mark. Is this something he does often or was it a once off or have i remembered wrong?

[Mantis]

We currently have 2 veterans (Johnno and Eagle) so we can't promote a rookie until we put someone on the Long-Term Injury List. However, after Round 11, a rookie can be promoted regardless of anyone being on the LTI list. You can only promote for long term injuries, not for form.

No you can't.

This can only happen if you have a spot on the list for them which we don't.

[stefoid]

Where was moley playing, mid or back?

[Templeton31]

Not long back from the game - some observations which may or may not have been noticeable on TV:


One end of the ground a fair bit more water logged than the other. I guess it was RH end on TV but the end we kicked to last
Jones seemed to get to the right spots at right times which wasnt bad for first game at AFL level.
We were right above the bench and basically the bench was always 3/4 full with senior players - Coons, Lake, Griff, etc
Thought Everitt ntb in first half. Made mistakes but got to right spots at least when lots of others were staying too far back for the conditions
Moles looked pretty composed as others have said. Its interesting too that although experience plays a part in composure and playing well its not the only thing - Jones, Moles and even Boumann to a degree looked as though they belonged.
Hill did not much.


The definite highlight for us though was in 2nd quarter. Fev ran off to bench and Morris ran right beside him to interchange gates and onto bench. 5 or so minutes later Fev came back on and as he ran past our bench he called out "C'mon Dale, time to go back on!". we laughed and so did Dale. Sure enough Dale did come back straight on.

Oh and the people sitting in front of us introduced themselves at end of game as Crossys grandparents. Poor sods had to listen to me and my old man commentating in usual pessimistic Bulldog fashion the whole game. At least we didnt bag Crossy.

[chef]

Where was moley playing, mid or back?

Both.

[chef]

Moles looked pretty composed as others have said. Its interesting too that although experience plays a part in composure and playing well its not the only thing - Jones, Moles and even Boumann to a degree looked as though they belonged.
.

He also doesn't fumble and everything was one touch.

[LostDoggy]

Personally I think conditions are making it VERY hard to judge how young guys are going, let's see how they go in dryer conditions

Maybe young talls as Moles was pretty good.

[Rocco Jones]

Brodie Moles was definitely the stand out for me.

Looked composed, has good pace, nice hands, up for the physical stuff, made good decisions and his kicking has good penetration.

[LostDoggy]

Pronounciation - Is is Mole s or M oils?

[LostDoggy]

Was only able to catch the first quarter, before having to head out.

Great to hear about the young talls getting talked about, considering the conditions were woeful. Hopefully they can show us a lot more come next round of the Cup, with conditions a little bit more player friendly.

Looks like we have another gem on the rookie list, Moles seems very much an AFL player.

[Go_Dogs]

Caught a bit of the game today, and as others have said the conditions were pretty dreadful which meant it wasn't a very inspiring contest.

Thought most of our senior guys were good in patches. Picken looks to have found another level and was more confident disposing of the ball. His vision to set up Roughead was good.

Roughead did a few good things I thought and worked hard. The Picken assist, Grant was standing right there too, and had hands on knees as soon as Picken marked. Didn't seem to have the tickets to run forward and create an option. He did look lively on the lead though, so some positives there.

Moles looked good. Stack a just couldn't quite get into it, and dropped a pretty easy mark at one stage.

Overall, decent first hit out, but still a bit to work on.

[Mantis]

The intensity that was lacking in the 1st half was very good in the 2nd half, our pressure skills in the 3rd qtr in particular were excellent.

The number of dropped chest marks could have been hurtful to our chances in winning the game... we probably dropped a dozen.

I liked the game of Harbrow, very composed and mopped up well... he was probably underdone having recently missed 2 or 3 weeks of training, but he has looked to have picked up where he left off last year.

Moles, Roughead and Jones all looked like they belong in the 'big' time. Roughead needs to get a little stronger, but this will happen in time and I would like to see him play in front at the boundary throw-ins a little more, but there is much to work with. Loved the way Jones attacked the ball, he has a take no prisoners attitude which was evident with the way he slid into the ball late in the game.

It was dissappointing that we couldn't see Stack, Hill, Everitt and Grant play in better conditions, but we will soon enough.

[ledge]

Hard to really get a gauge considering teams dont play in that weather very often at all nowadays. Usually the highly skilled sides struggle and the hard at it teams come through, we seem to have both qualities nowadays.

Herald sun reported Higgins arm but i dont think his arm is connected to his leg.
Whatever the injury it was reported he was taken off as just precautionary.

[aker39]

That rule about a nine pointer after a 50m penalty is stupid.


What's stupid about it?

If a team was 8 points down and the player takes a mark 55 metres out, and final siren went, he is going to take a shot for 9 points. So lets give a 50m penalty away and he can have a shot for 6 points from 5 metres out.


I do agree with your later comment about the AFL changing the last 2 quarters to flat straight 20 minutes with no time on.

What if a player got seriously injured and took 5 to 10 minutes to get off the ground.

From what I heard the AFL made the change in the morning, and it was based on the game last year where it finished in darkness. So the AFL new from last year that it gets dark early in Canberra, yet it took until the morning of the game for them to act on it. And rather than bring the game forward, they remove any credibility the NAB Cup may have had by playing with no time on in the last 2 quarters. Is this the under 10's in the WRFL?

I must admit I didn't really get in to the game as I was continually flicking to Melbourne Victory, but from what I saw I was most impressed with Moles and the continued run from Jarrod Harbrow.

[AndrewP6]

What's stupid about it?

If a team was 8 points down and the player takes a mark 55 metres out, and final siren went, he is going to take a shot for 9 points. So lets give a 50m penalty away and he can have a shot for 6 points from 5 metres out.


Just don't like the idea that you can get 9 points by kicking it 30 metres. Glad the 9 point goals are only there for the Who Cares Cup.

[LostDoggy]

Which part of the Nab Cup isn't stupid? Its really a joke of a comp. I have an idea, lets add another 5 rules yearly to an already confusing game. Its not like we are over officiating already.

[Dry Rot]

Thanks to all for the comments on Jones.

Seems Roughead did OK?

I've had a strange footy 24 hours.

Stayed up (inexplicably) to watch the Hawks v Tigers game (reply started here at 11.15pm). I've wasted more time in my life than most, but that was one of the biggest.

Come today (and I have no Foxtel), I set off for the Alexandria Hotel which is a great place to watch AFL in Sydney (by our miserable standards). They show the game on a few screens and there's often a few footy fans to shoot the breeze with, and sometimes a crowd.

Hit Cleveland Street, Redfern and it's virtually gridlocked. Make my way through all that, can't find a park near the pub, so I finally find one a long way away and bolt up to the pub thinking I'll see at least 3 quarters.

The pub is closed. Renovations. Reopens in March.

Undeterred, I get back into Tojo and drive to another Sydney Swans AFL "mecca" the Newtown Courthouse Hotel. They will definitely be showing the game there. I'll see the second half.

And they are, with no sound on one screen. Back into Tojo and a fast drive home back to have the glory of a dodgy SEN call on the net.

So I saw our opponents next round and missed us.....

[craigsahibee]

Touch wood that we stay reletively injury free, there should be quite a few players fighting for positions, just on the fringe, Timmy Callan, Moles, Addison, Wood, Reid etc etc.

If Tim Callan is in our best 22 at any time this year we are struggling.

[wb_age]

Thanks to all for the comments on Jones.

Seems Roughead did OK?

I've had a strange footy 24 hours.

Stayed up (inexplicably) to watch the Hawks v Tigers game (reply started here at 11.15pm). I've wasted more time in my life than most, but that was one of the biggest.

Come today (and I have no Foxtel), I set off for the Alexandria Hotel which is a great place to watch AFL in Sydney (by our miserable standards). They show the game on a few screens and there's often a few footy fans to shoot the breeze with, and sometimes a crowd.

Hit Cleveland Street, Redfern and it's virtually gridlocked. Make my way through all that, can't find a park near the pub, so I finally find one a long way away and bolt up to the pub thinking I'll see at least 3 quarters.

The pub is closed. Renovations. Reopens in March.

Undeterred, I get back into Tojo and drive to another Sydney Swans AFL "mecca" the Newtown Courthouse Hotel. They will definitely be showing the game there. I'll see the second half.

And they are, with no sound on one screen. Back into Tojo and a fast drive home back to have the glory of a dodgy SEN call on the net.

So I saw our opponents next round and missed us.....
This is why I've bitten the bullet and will be signing up to foxtel tomorrow.

[Twodogs]

I thought we flicked the switch about halfway through the second quarter. It was noticible that the players seemed to work out all of a sudden that the idea was just to get the ball forward at all costs.

Up until then we we tried to finesse too much but Brisbane didnt take their chances to hurt us with the many turnovers we coughed up. Luckily Brisbane were a bit Fev focused when they went forward because Morris owned him at every contest. In hindsight that kept us in the contest.

Our forwards were always either having hurried shots due to players mucking around with the ball downfield and then bombing it into the F50 or when they did have a set shot they were getting the balldropp wrong in the conditions.

The ten minutes just before halftime set the scene. We held them up and started to dictate terms. Then we crept the ball forward and held it in our 50 until we snagged the goal we really needed just before halftime. I was a lot happier at halftime and wasnt suprised with the way we dominated the third quarter.

It was very noticible that the we seemed to improve as the ground got drier.

[The Underdog]

What's stupid about it?

If a team was 8 points down and the player takes a mark 55 metres out, and final siren went, he is going to take a shot for 9 points. So lets give a 50m penalty away and he can have a shot for 6 points from 5 metres out.



That's a fantastic point. I think the frustration is based on 3 different aspects of the rule.

a) the rule was brought in to encourage shots at goal from outside 50m and now roughly 50-70% of the supergoals come from 50m penalties mainly due to...b)

b) in the NAB Cup, umpires hand out 50's like they mean nothing.

c) the super goal is ****ing stupid.

(I'll add that the holding the ball interpretation in this comp is something that may make me walk away from watching football. In the first few minutes of the game last night a Richmond player grabbed a loose ball, was tackled immediately and was paid holding the ball against. It was something completely antithetical to the idea of wanting to win the football. I was absolutely outraged.)

[Rocco Jones]

I once knew a ditsy next door neighbour/friend who thought super goals were judged on quality rather than just being outside 50. Thought there were judges and the like who voted on whether a goal was super or not.

[Dry Rot]

I once knew a ditsy next door neighbour/friend who thought super goals were judged on quality rather than just being outside 50. Thought there were judges and the like who voted on whether a goal was super or not.


Given some of the umpiring I've seen or read about this round, that isn't that far out there. :D

[Throughandthrough]

I once knew a ditsy next door neighbour/friend who thought super goals were judged on quality rather than just being outside 50. Thought there were judges and the like who voted on whether a goal was super or not.


Admit it Rocco, that was you, wasn't it....

[Rocco Jones]

Given some of the umpiring I've seen or read about this round, that isn't that far out there. :D

Yeah, perhaps they can even allow each team's actual mascot to play. We would have been screwed today though if Brisbane could have trained a Lion to only attack our players. Hawks swooping on us would also probably do more damage than a Bulldog attack. Really not sure what Carlton have to gain, perhaps inflicting bouts of depression on their opponents. Saints vs Demons would be a ripper.

[Dry Rot]

I thought we flicked the switch about halfway through the second quarter. It was noticible that the players seemed to work out all of a sudden that the idea was just to get the ball forward at all costs.



IMO, that's where there's a crossover with rugby league. In those conditions, just go for field position (without kicking it straight to the opposition). No one's likely to mark it, trap the ball in there and scores will follow.

Not attractive stuff, but nor is playing in a lake.

[Sockeye Salmon]

That's a fantastic point. I think the frustration is based on 3 different aspects of the rule.

a) the rule was brought in to encourage shots at goal from outside 50m and now roughly 50-70% of the supergoals come from 50m penalties mainly due to...b)

b) in the NAB Cup, umpires hand out 50's like they mean nothing.

c) the super goal is ****ing stupid.

(I'll add that the holding the ball interpretation in this comp is something that may make me walk away from watching football. In the first few minutes of the game last night a Richmond player grabbed a loose ball, was tackled immediately and was paid holding the ball against. It was something completely antithetical to the idea of wanting to win the football. I was absolutely outraged.)

Practically all the rule changes they bring in for the who cares cup are ****ing stupid.

[Dry Rot]

Yeah, perhaps they can even allow each team's actual mascot to play. We would have been screwed today though if Brisbane could have trained a Lion to only attack our players. Hawks swooping on us would also probably do more damage than a Bulldog attack. Really not sure what Carlton have to gain, perhaps inflicting bouts of depression on their opponents. Saints vs Demons would be a ripper.

The Port Power mascot could have been useful so the last two quarter weren't shortened.

Your post surely invites a witty comment about Freo.... :D

[Dry Rot]

Practically all the rule changes they bring in for the who cares cup are ****ing stupid.

How many have been adopted over the years?

[Rocco Jones]

The Port Power mascot could have been useful so the last two quarter weren't shortened.

Your post surely invites a witty comment about Freo.... :D

The Power would have been very dangerous with all that water around the ground.

Not sure the modern game really suits wharfies.

[Sockeye Salmon]

How many have been adopted over the years?

Way too many.

[Twodogs]

IMO, that's where there's a crossover with rugby league. In those conditions, just go for field position (without kicking it straight to the opposition). No one's likely to mark it, trap the ball in there and scores will follow.

Not attractive stuff, but nor is playing in a lake.


In those conditions you just have to hack it forward at every contest. Like you say if you can keep the ball in your forward line logic dictates that you have to score sometime. It took a quarter and a half for that to sink in to our guys.

[Rocco Jones]

Another innovation I would like to see in the NAB Cup is a bulls eye being placed right between the goal posts 10 metres up. If a team hits the bulls eye the previous decided winner of a txt4urteam comp can decide whether they want the opposition's score to go back to zero or have their own team get double points from that point on.

[Twodogs]

Way too many.


Are the ones from earlier seasons in force this year? Particularly the one where a mark isnt paid if you kick the ball backwards in the defensive 50 and if the ball hits the post and bounces back into play then it's play on.

I havent seen them paid, but then I havent seen the ball hit the post and rebound into play yet but I've seen a few players kick backwards in defence and the umpire hasnt done anything.

[mjp]

Brisbane were missing their midfield. We were missing our forward line.

When the Brisbane pressure fell away - and it was always going too - from half-way through the second quarter onwards, our onballers (led by Cooney) took over. Unfortunately given we didn't have a forward line we couldn't actually kick any goals. Eventually we slotted a couple - more by accident than good planning - and a Brisbane side without Black and Power were never going to get enough footy to come back.

The conditions were woeful which didn''t help.

I didn't really spot any major game plan changes but again, the conditions contributed to that.

A bad game to watch, we played OK I suppose. Moles looked good - wish he was on the list.

[Rocco Jones]

Are the ones from earlier seasons in force this year?

That's where I mainly get confused with the NAB Cup rules, I don't know which rules are only for one edition and which ones are traditional zany NAB Cup rules like the supergoal. I must say though, I hope they stick with the one about no time on if they decide on the morning of the game that it might get a bit too dark. That's a cracker, a sure winner for the footy mums.

[Before I Die]

Another innovation I would like to see in the NAB Cup is a bulls eye being placed right between the goal posts 10 metres up. If a team hits the bulls eye the previous decided winner of a txt4urteam comp can decide whether they want the opposition's score to go back to zero or have their own team get double points from that point on.

Perhaps a complete re-think of the rules of the game along the lines of Royal Tennis may be the way to go. The grandstands could be extended over the ground with balls rolling off the grandstand roof deemed still in play. Targets of various sizes and values could be placed near the current goal posts. Hitting certain targets could also gain teams extra players for short durations or bonus points for goals scored within such 'power play times'. Or perhaps timed exclusion zones for the other side could be the reward.

Sadly it is not as silly as it should be given the current situation.

[The Underdog]

Practically all the rule changes they bring in for the who cares cup are ****ing stupid.

That's part of why I turned off the SEN feed on my computer at half time, went and made dinner and found out at 9.30 tonight that we'd won. It's like trying to care who wins a game of 20/20 cricket.
Before anyone asks, yes I care how we perform but given that I have a 2yo with adjustment issues, couldn't see vision and that SEN commentary sucks, I had more important things to do.

[Twodogs]

That's part of why I turned off the SEN feed on my computer at half time, went and made dinner and found out at 9.30 tonight that we'd won. It's like trying to care who wins a game of 20/20 cricket.
Before anyone asks, yes I care how we perform but given that I have a 2yo with adjustment issues, couldn't see vision and that SEN commentary sucks, I had more important things to do.


Is it the terrible twos? My second kid put us through hell with those.

[Rocco Jones]

I say this thread is getting almost as sidetracked as the NAB Cup.

[The Underdog]

Is it the terrible twos? My second kid put us through hell with those.

That coupled with new baby. Tantrums that are out of this world. She loves her baby brother, hates her parents half the time though.


I say this thread is getting almost as sidetracked as the NAB Cup.

Sorry, promise by round 22 I'll be paying attention.:)

[jazzadogs]

I was impressed by Moles, I'd struggled to pick him out during the intra-club (I reckon I thought he was Boyd most of the time), so it was good to see him and actually know who he was.

Jones, Roughead and Grant were serviceable without being spectacular, Roughy had a few decent hit outs but lost front position a lot.

Hill was very poor, as was the skill level. As much as it can be attributed to the wet weather, we'd still want to play better than that in such conditions.

Didn't see the first quarter and a bit, but my dad said Murphy moved really well which was good to hear.
Was more worried about Higgins before I saw the replay, didn't look too healthy but also wasn't so extreme that you fear any major damage could be done. Touch Easton.

In conclusion, bring on the Hawks.

[Twodogs]

That coupled with new baby. Tantrums that are out of this world. She loves her baby brother, hates her parents half the time though.

The important thing to remember at a time like this is she needs a parent not a middle aged best friend. That's the best advice I ever got about that age.




Sorry, promise by round 22 I'll be paying attention.:)

Dont worry. Rocco will sympathise one day. Then we can say "Nah nah nah naaah nah" to him.

[LostDoggy]

Moles looked good - wish he was on the list.

Agreed. Looks a ready-made player, and quite frustrating that he's on the rooks while a couple of guys on the main list don't look like playing this year and would maybe have been better rookied, as Rocket may have alluded to in a chat.

[MrMahatma]

I guess though, is Moles ahead of Reid, Addison, Wood, Eagleton, Howard?

We've loads of midfield depth.

[boydogs]

Agreed. Looks a ready-made player, and quite frustrating that he's on the rooks while a couple of guys on the main list don't look like playing this year and would maybe have been better rookied, as Rocket may have alluded to in a chat.

For those in the know - How injured do players have to be put on the long term injury list? Does the AFL perform any validation of this? Can they still play VFL?

Reid and Tiller's groins look like enforcing an extended break on them. How long is long term?

[chef]

I guess though, is Moles ahead of Reid, Addison, Wood, Eagleton, Howard?

We've loads of midfield depth.

Take out Eagleton as he is a walk up start for our best 22, and I would say yes he is ahead of those other players ATM. But there is a long way to go before round 1 and a few players to come back into our side.

[The Coon Dog]

For those in the know - How injured do players have to be put on the long term injury list? Does the AFL perform any validation of this? Can they still play VFL?

Reid and Tiller's groins look like enforcing an extended break on them. How long is long term?

Once a player is placed on the long term injury list he can't play for 8 weeks.

[stefoid]

murph only 4 touches and 1 mark?

[Mantis]

murph only 4 touches and 1 mark?

He played less than a half (subbed at half time) and to be fair it wasn't a day for forwards.

He did look lively on his feet which was a good sign.

[LostDoggy]

Thanks for the reports guys

Did not get to watch the game, did Pat Rose played?

With moles being able to play and if Rose can play. We will have two cable rookie listed players.

Exciting isn't it!

[Sockeye Salmon]

Perhaps a complete re-think of the rules of the game along the lines of Royal Tennis may be the way to go. The grandstands could be extended over the ground with balls rolling off the grandstand roof deemed still in play. Targets of various sizes and values could be placed near the current goal posts. Hitting certain targets could also gain teams extra players for short durations or bonus points for goals scored within such 'power play times'. Or perhaps timed exclusion zones for the other side could be the reward.

Sadly it is not as silly as it should be given the current situation.

Two balls in play at once!

[Bulldog Revolution]

Moles looked super, his hands were just incredible, whilst everyone else seemed to fumble he was ridiculously clean

Will be interesting to see him on a dry track to see what his speed is like, because at this stage I cant believe Geelong did not list him

I was happy with the win, and happy to see Jones, Roughy, Grant, Boumann, Moles, Stack receive opportunities

Whilst not always clean I thought the work rate of Everitt was v.impressive

[Ozza]

I was watching in a pub with no sound, and had had a few beers, so my recollection of the game is not quite 20-20 - but I thought Gia and Gilbs were good, Moles and Picken very clean and effective, Roughy did ok, and Jones was busy albeit in unsuitable conditions.

Good that the boys won and don't have to go to Shepparton or Wangaratta or similar.

[Mofra]

There was still something to gain from playing in those sorts of conditions - it really highlights how important attack on the ball is.

I know people have highlighted Jones; his best piece of play was a 0 possession, out of bounds play where he just attacked it harder when he was out of position and an opponent was coming at him front on. If a guy who has just spent most of a year playing school footy and is 19 years old so behind the 8 ball physically, is willing to attck the footy that hard I think we've got something to work with.

This is where I was disappointed with Stack's game - he seemed to wait for the ball to come to him. Maybe he is under instructions to play an outside game, but a few occasions he let his opponent dictate the terms of play.

I thought Roughead was showed up quite alot in two departments - strength & timing/experience. Given he puts on muscle easily (restricted diet at some stage last year?) and the experience will come as a matter of course, I was very happy with his game - he seems to show more forward that Minson or Hudson too. If he does play round 1 because Minson isn't available, I hope whatever happen he maintains his condifence because based on that game he is only time away from a regular at AFL level.

Everyone has highlighted Moles, Harbrow was great, but Morris deserves a mention. Took a couple of good grabs with a wet ball which were Lake-like in defence. Is it possible that he is going to have a better year this year than last?

[Mantis]

Everyone has highlighted Moles, Harbrow was great, but Morris deserves a mention. Took a couple of good grabs with a wet ball which were Lake-like in defence. Is it possible that he is going to have a better year this year than last?

I don't think last year was Dale's best. The fact that he finished the season with a fracture in his lower leg couldn't have helped his cause.

When fit he is almost the best pound-for-pound defender in the league.

[comrade]

Good point re: Jones, Mofra.

IMO, the best indicators of how a young key position player will develop is a) their attack on the contest and b) their ability to keep presenting.

I thought Jones ticked both boxes yesterday. There were a few times where he showed a blatant disregard for his own welfare in trying to win a contest, and he kept providing a target deep into the last quarter (despite not getting on the end of it).

Safe to say that he's the best developing KP talent we've had in quite a while (with Boumann a close second ;)).

[mighty_west]

Good point re: Jones, Mofra.

IMO, the best indicators of how a young key position player will develop is a) their attack on the contest and b) their ability to keep presenting.

I thought Jones ticked both boxes yesterday. There were a few times where he showed a blatant disregard for his own welfare in trying to win a contest, and he kept providing a target deep into the last quarter (despite not getting on the end of it).

Safe to say that he's the best developing KP talent we've had in quite a while (with Boumann a close second ;)).

He is going to be a great size as well, when he gets some upper body strength, probably similar to Jesse White & Kurt Tippett.

I really hope he gets another game in 2 weeks in perfect conditions at Etihad, as the conditions yesterday were a young tall forwards worst nightmare.

[Bulldog Revolution]

This is where I was disappointed with Stack's game -

I thought Roughead was showed up quite alot in two departments - strength & timing/experience.

Everyone has highlighted Moles, Harbrow was great, but Morris deserves a mention.

I thought Stack was OK, conditions very difficult and I'm keen to see him on a dry track before I take too much out of it

Roughy showed some good signs, some good taps, didn't shy away from physicality, looked promising up forward, a fine kick for goal, and a super one handed scoop pick up off the ground (which should be known as the hawkins) in the last quarter. Best young prospect we've had on the list since Darcy

Harbrows was sharper than I'd anticipated, and whilst his run was not always effective, his approach to the game has to be applauded

I'm shouldn't be alone in confessing my love of dale morris

[wend1604]

I was very impressed with Moles and also thought Roughead did well.

[mjp]

I guess though, is Moles ahead of Reid, Addison, Wood, Eagleton, Howard?



He is ahead of Addison and Howard. He is different to Wood who I see as more like Griffen.

I would guess Eagleton has him covered - but they are very different. He is similar to Reid in many ways...certainly Moles is a good kick and very sure handed. I was just really impressed with Moles and think that if he is available then he would play.

[mjp]

This is where I was disappointed with Stack's game - he seemed to wait for the ball to come to him. Maybe he is under instructions to play an outside game, but a few occasions he let his opponent dictate the terms of play.


I thought he was terribly disappointing.

[LostDoggy]

This is where I was disappointed with Stack's game - he seemed to wait for the ball to come to him. Maybe he is under instructions to play an outside game, but a few occasions he let his opponent dictate the terms of play.



I was also disappointed in Stack's lack of effort and thought Hill was not much better.

Both need to lift their intensity in atacking the ball and the body of they are to play a part this year.

The other one to disappoint (again) was Callan who should have been made for those conditions. Once more a game when he failed to hold his feet (yes, I know it was wet but he goes down because of his lack of balance) and gave up the pill too easily.

[comrade]

I was also disappointed in Stack's lack of effort and thought Hill was not much better.

Both need to lift their intensity in atacking the ball and the body of they are to play a part this year.

The other one to disappoint (again) was Callan who should have been made for those conditions. Once more a game when he failed to hold his feet (yes, I know it was wet but he goes down because of his lack of balance) and gave up the pill too easily.

He rubber-chested a few, as well, though his inability to keep his feet under pressure is the biggest flaw in his game.

[Throughandthrough]

I think the gimmick of handballing to Gilbee while lining up for a shot from 50+ metres has run its course. What did he kick, 3 "super" points?

[LostDoggy]

I think the gimmick of handballing to Gilbee while lining up for a shot from 50+ metres has run its course. What did he kick, 3 "super" points?


Shouldn't they be worth 1.5 points then?! :D

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Agree with the disappointment in Stack. No intensity, didn't look like he wanted to actually play football. Dropped at least 3 very easy chest marks too. Conditions were obviously poor, but I think he showed why he's struggled to take the next step.

Moles, Harbrow and Cross were impressive. Cooney really turned up the heat in the second half and probably dragged us over the line with some of his efforts. Good to see.

Roughy struggled and he got a belting, but it was to be expected. Brisbane have one of the better ruck divisions around and it was only his first game. The positive is that he still contributed around the ground and up forward. Pretty pleased with this aspect of his game because it's going to make him a very good player. Perhaps similar to Jolly.

Jones needs to keep his feet a little more IMO. The conditions were slippery but I think he threw a little 'too much' at the contest sometimes. You don't have to split the pack every time you go for a footy. Otherwise the opposition picks up the footy and runs away with it. Happened a few times and he'll learn. Otherwise, a nice showing especially considering how far back he's coming from. Desperation near the boundary was fantastic to see. A young key forward with talent AND intensity - we haven't had that for a while.

Grant and Boumann did some nice things. I hope they both play against the Hawks because when it was their time to go, they certainly did. Grant took a strong mark whilst Boumann didn't get pushed out of the way easily in the last quarter. I liked what I saw.

On another note, why would the AFL play a twilight game at an oval with no lights? That's got to be one of the dumbest things they've ever done.

[Mantis]

Shaun Higgins is ok, just minor bruising to front of right ankle.

See article here (http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/shaun-higgins-clear-of-injury-concerns/story-e6frf9jf-1225830559403)

[Swoop]

I think the gimmick of handballing to Gilbee while lining up for a shot from 50+ metres has run its course. What did he kick, 3 "super" points?
You're right, considering this is a rehearsal for the season proper I would prefer the players go back and kick the goal like they would be expected to during the normal home and away season. The shots weren't neccessarily difficult and all could have made the distance at least, by all means if a running shot is there 50 out go for it but I don't want to see players changing their habits for the preseason competition.

[LostDoggy]

Shaun Higgins is ok, just minor bruising to front of right ankle.

See article here (http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/shaun-higgins-clear-of-injury-concerns/story-e6frf9jf-1225830559403)

Didn't get a chance to watch the final quarter til today..relief to hear that :o

[comrade]

A few happy snaps from the game...


http://i675.photobucket.com/albums/vv120/brettmexico/nab%20cup%20-%20canberra/CIMG2410.jpg

A historical moment - For the first time ever, Boumann prepares to run out on the field for the Bulldogs.


http://i675.photobucket.com/albums/vv120/brettmexico/nab%20cup%20-%20canberra/CIMG2436.jpg

Like a gazelle!


http://i675.photobucket.com/albums/vv120/brettmexico/nab%20cup%20-%20canberra/CIMG2445.jpg

Keep pumping the weights, Jarrad.


http://i675.photobucket.com/albums/vv120/brettmexico/nab%20cup%20-%20canberra/CIMG2404.jpg

The better half had to take a gratuitous shot of Gia...


All in all, a good weekend, but it's good to be back in Melbourne where every restaurant isn't overpriced, public transport actually exists and not every building is a monument to concrete.

[Mofra]

The other one to disappoint (again) was Callan who should have been made for those conditions. Once more a game when he failed to hold his feet (yes, I know it was wet but he goes down because of his lack of balance) and gave up the pill too easily.
I didn't think he was too bad in the second half, but his first half was the worst football I've seen him play - Addison looked like he leapfrogged him, despite looking like he lacked football smarts on occasion.

[The Adelaide Connection]

Most of what I would have said about yesterdays game I agree with and has been said already but a few different points:

*Did anyone else notice that when the Lions went into their rooms the players had the choice from a box of water and a carton of 600ml cokes? Have never seen that before, marketing deal?

*It really was eye-opening to see just how bad some of the skills were (especially kicks). We spend a fair bit of time getting ready for the Darwin game, should we also have some sessions with heavy, waterlogged balls throughout the year too? September in Melbourne isn't always exactly sunshine and lollipops.

[bulldogsman]

*It really was eye-opening to see just how bad some of the skills were (especially kicks). We spend a fair bit of time getting ready for the Darwin game, should we also have some sessions with heavy, waterlogged balls throughout the year too? September in Melbourne isn't always exactly sunshine and lollipops.

It's the start of the season, last year the skills would have been just as bad and they were even in dry conditions.

[divvydan]

Most of what I would have said about yesterdays game I agree with and has been said already but a few different points:

*Did anyone else notice that when the Lions went into their rooms the players had the choice from a box of water and a carton of 600ml cokes? Have never seen that before, marketing deal?

*It really was eye-opening to see just how bad some of the skills were (especially kicks). We spend a fair bit of time getting ready for the Darwin game, should we also have some sessions with heavy, waterlogged balls throughout the year too? September in Melbourne isn't always exactly sunshine and lollipops.

I've seen that sort of thing a number of times over the past couple of years, other teams use soft lollies after games as well. Might be something to do with getting sugar/energy into the body after a match and some players preferring to do so with a coke rather than some other form.
Obviously if they're going to have a cola soft drink post game it has to be coke due to the sponsorship.

[Mofra]

I've seen that sort of thing a number of times over the past couple of years, other teams use soft lollies after games as well. Might be something to do with getting sugar/energy into the body after a match and some players preferring to do so with a coke rather than some other form.
Obviously if they're going to have a cola soft drink post game it has to be coke due to the sponsorship.
I would have thought a glucose based drink or even some form of glycogen suppliment would work better for recovery. Most clubs have the soft lollies after a game that I believe are sweetened with glucose rather than sucrose.

[Twodogs]

I would have thought a glucose based drink or even some form of glycogen suppliment would work better for recovery. Most clubs have the soft lollies after a game that I believe are sweetened with glucose rather than sucrose.



Yep, thet lollies AFL players eat after games and training are glucose based rather than the nasty high GI sucrose. I think it was snakes that Rohan Smith used to have.

[AndrewP6]

Most of what I would have said about yesterdays game I agree with and has been said already but a few different points:

*Did anyone else notice that when the Lions went into their rooms the players had the choice from a box of water and a carton of 600ml cokes? Have never seen that before, marketing deal?


As others have said, it's likely to do with fast intake of glucose, those guys really do put a strain on their bodies during a game. I remember when we had a new dietitian start at the club, she instructed all players that they had to increase their carbohydrate intakes - they were being too strict with their diets. IIRC, the Bulldogs members mag had an article, with some of the boys getting stuck into Big M milk and chips!

[OLD SCRAGGer]

[ I think it was snakes that Rohan Smith used to have.[/QUOTE]

Rohan used to have the Strawberry Freddo's after games I think:confused:

[mighty_west]

[ I think it was snakes that Rohan Smith used to have.

Rohan used to have the Strawberry Freddo's after games I think:confused:

He certaintly did, he was quoted many times saying they were his faves.

[ledge]

I think i read somewhere Aker has lollies of some sort and counts exactly the right amount after each game, maybe someone can confirm.

[The Adelaide Connection]

It's the start of the season, last year the skills would have been just as bad and they were even in dry conditions.

Skills are down usually at this time of season and yes the conditions were Crappola, but shanking your kick so bad that it is a complete grubber and goes about 5 metres? Shouldn't happen at this level, yet it did several times.