Dogs lose Murphy and Johnson for three weeks

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Re: Dogs lose Murphy and Johnson for three weeks

A very early call..... if we play him on a half back flank for the remainder of his career, it would be less taxing on his body. Again I repeat, Grant is going to become more important over the next few weeks.

Not really.

Murphy has struggled with his body for 2-3 years and in the past 12 months, it has only got worse. We heard about his recovery in the off-season and feeling the best he's felt in years - yet eight weeks in and he's got a similar problem. He's played a very taxing role, it's no suprise his knee(s) are starting to give way with all the running and jumping he's been asked to do.

Hopefully he can return and offer us something across half back, but I think it's pretty clear Murphy isn't going to be playing at 31-32+.

[Desipura]

Re: Dogs lose Murphy and Johnson for three weeks

How many cysts has Murphy had removed? Seems like a few. His body doesn't sound too great, can't see him playing too many more years.

Not really.

Murphy has struggled with his body for 2-3 years and in the past 12 months, it has only got worse. We heard about his recovery in the off-season and feeling the best he's felt in years - yet eight weeks in and he's got a similar problem. He's played a very taxing role, it's no suprise his knee(s) are starting to give way with all the running and jumping he's been asked to do.

Hopefully he can return and offer us something across half back, but I think it's pretty clear Murphy isn't going to be playing at 31-32+.

He is turning 28 in June, so another 3 years playing accross half back is not beyond him. His reading of the play and experience will be needed as the likes of Johnson, Aker and to a lesser extent Ealgeton retire at seasons end.
With the pace of the game getting quicker each year, there probably wont be too many players playing well into their 30's.

[LostDoggy]

Re: Dogs lose Murphy and Johnson for three weeks

Yep, next 3 matches are Norf, Bombres, Colliwobbles. Freo is Round 17...

Bugger!