Draft Part 2

Here are the Pre-Season and Rookie Drafts.

Pre-Season
1. Melbourne- Joel McDonald (Brisbane). Still can't understand why he left Brisbane or that Brisbane didn't give him the opportunities but Melbourne have picked up a good player.
2. Richmond- Dylan Grimes (Northern Knights). Brother of Jack.
3. Fremantle- Adam McPhee (Essendon). Gone back to the club where his career started. More opportunities he is seeking and I think he will get at Freo.
4. Sydney- Daniel Bradshaw (Brisbane). With Brisbane surprising everyone and picking up Fevola it left Daniel out of the loop and therefore with the prospect of the trade situation, he decided the best option was to leave. But could you imagine a forwardline with Brown, Bradshaw and Fevola? Not sure but if it did happen it would leave the opposition backline saying "Shit how are we going to stop this."
5. West Coast- Ryan Neates (Claremont).
6. Port Adelaide- Scott Harding (Brisbane). Bit of a surprise but he will serve them well.
7. Essendon- Kyle Hardingham (East Fremantle).

Rookie Draft- You will notice that this is the first time that the Gold Coast will have selections ahead of their inception in 2011.

1. Gold Coast-Daniel Harris (North Melbourne, Mature aged Rookie). Good player and if he had the opportunities at North then he would still be there.
2. Gold Coast- Michael Coad (Sturt, Mature aged rookie).
3. Gold Coast- Sam Iles (Box Hill Hawks). Shows a lot of promise.
4. Gold Coast- Roland Ah Chee (Norwood).
5. Gold Coast- Danny Stanley (Collingwood). Originally from the Falcons never got the opportunities at Collingwood.
6. Melbourne- Michael Newton (Melbourne). He should be on a list.
7. Richmond- Robert Hicks (Calder Cannons).
8. Fremantle- Michael Barlow (Werribee)
9. North Melbourne- Majak Daw (Western Jets).
10. Sydney- Henry Playfair (Sydney, Mature aged Rookie). Former Cat who has been riddled with injuries, better luck will serve him well.
11. West Coast- Lewis Broome (Claremont)
12. Port Adelaide- Cameron Hitchcock (Glenelg)
13. Hawthorn- Wayde Skipper (Western Bulldogs, mature aged rookie). Needed opportunities but will get them at Hawthorn.
14. Essendon- Taite Silverlock (West Adelaide).
15. Carlton- Jaryd Cachia (Northern Knights).
16. Brisbane- Mitchell Colby (Gippsland Power)
17. Adelaide- Luke Thompson (Geelong Falcons). Was tipped to go in the national draft.
18. Collingwood- Thomas Hunter (Calder Cannons).
19. Geelong- Brodie Moles (Geelong, mature aged rookie). Was surprised when they got rid of him but glad they have retained him on their list.
20. St Kilda- Mark Hutchings (East Perth).
21. Geelong- Jack Weston (Gippsland Power).
22. Melbourne- John Meeson (Melbourne, Mature aged rookie)
23. Richmond- Pat Contin (Glenelg)
24. Fremantle- Alex Silvani (Casey Scorpions)
25. North Melbourne- Matthew Scott (Eastern Rangers).
26 Sydney- Pass
27. West Coast- Andrew Strijk (West Perth)
28. Port Adelaide- Daniel Webb (West Adelaide)
29. Hawthorn- Jarrod Kayler-Thompson (Perth)
30. Essendon- Ben Howlett (Peel Thunder)
31. Carlton- Joe Dare (Geelong Falcons).
32. Brisbane- Josh Dyson (Eastern Rangers)
33. Adelaide- Matthew Wright (North Adelaide)
34. Collingwood- Jack Carter (West Adelaide)
35. Western Bulldogs- Andrew Hooper (North Ballarat Rebels)
36. St Kilda- Daniel Archer (Clarence)
37. Geelong- Ben Johnson (Geelong VFL)
38. Richmond- Relton Roberts (Wanderers, Mature aged rookie)
39. Sydney- Pass
40. West Coast- Ashton Hams (South Fremantle)
41. Port Adelaide- Cameron Cloke (Carlton). Third Club.
42. Hawthorn- Michael Johnson (East Coast Eagles) (NSW AFL Scolarship elevation)
43. Essendon- Stewart Crameri (Bendigo Bombers)
44. Carlton- Levi Casboult (Dandenong Stingrays)
45. Brisbane- Pass
46. Adelaide- Matthew Jaensch (Sturt)
47. Collingwood- Seamus McNamara (Milwaukee, International Selection)
48. Western Bulldogs- Matthew Panos (Norwood)
49. St Kilda- Jarryd Allen (St Kilda). Good to see that he has been retained by the Saints.
50. Geelong- James Podisiadly (Geelong, Mature aged rookie)
51. Richmond- Nicholas Westhoff (West Adelaide)
52. Sydney- Pass
53. West Coast- Jarrod-Oakley Nicolls (Richmond). Hope he makes the most of the opportunities.
54. Port Adelaide- Glenn Dawson (Port Adelaide).
55. Essendon- Marcus Marigliani (Frankston)
56. Carlton- Simon White (Subiaco)
57. Brisbane- Pass
58. Adelaide- Aiden Riley (Wollongong Lions) (NSW Afl scolarship elevation)
59. Western Bulldogs- Eddie Prato (Maryborough)
60. St Kilda- Leigh Fischer (St Kilda). So glad he was retained.
61. Geelong- Jesse Stringer (Port Adelaide Magpies)
62. Richmond- Graham Polak (Richmond, mature aged rookie)
63. Sydney- Chrissy McKaigue (County Derry, Ireland) (International Selection)
64. Port Adelaide- Daniel Bass (3 year non registration selection)
65. Essendon- John Williams (Essendon).
66. Carlton- Joshua Donaldson (West Perth)
67. Brisbane- Nial McKeever (County Antrim, Ireland) (International Selection)
68. Western Bulldogs- Patrick Rose (Williamstown)
69. St Kilda- Tommy Walsh (County Kerry, Ireland) (International selection)
70. Richmond- Jamie O'Reilly (County Down, Ireland) (International selection)
71. Sydney- Nathan Gordon (East Coast Eagles) (NSW AFL scolarship elevation)
72. Port Adelaide- Jordan Johns (South Broken Hill) (NSW AFL scholarship elevation)
73. Carlton- Zach Tuohy (County Laois, Ireland) (International Selection)
74. Brisbane- Sean Yoshuira (Mt Gravatt) (QLD Pre-Selection)
75. Sydney- Dylan McNeil (Murray Bushrangers) (NSW Pre-selection)
76. Brisbane- Claye Beams (Labrador) (QLD Pre-Selection)
77. Sydney- Pass
78. Brisbane- Broc McCauley (Southport) (QLD pre-selection)

There are the rookie and pre- season draft selections for 2009.

National Draft and others

Here is the selections for the National and Rookie and Pre-season drafts. There were some surprises and ones in which we knew were going to happen.

1. Melbourne- Tom Scully (Dandenong Stingrays). He was always going to go to Melbourne just a matter of which pick.
2. Melbourne- Jack Trengrove (Sturt). Same as above.
3. Richmond- Dustin Martin (Bendigo Pioneers).
4. Fremantle- Anthony Morabito (Peel). Big wraps on this kid should be good with the experience that they have now.
5. North Melbourne- Ben Cunnington (Geelong Falcons).
6. Sydney- Gary Rohan (Geelong Falcons) Two Falcons in the top ten...quality.
7. West Coast- Brad Sheppard (East Fremantle) Local boy with their top pick.
8. Port Adelaide- John Butcher (Gippsland Power).
9. Port Adelaide- Andrew Moore (Eastern Rangers). Was touted to go at 15 to the Bulldogs.
10. Essendon- Jake Melksham (Calder Cannons).
11. Melbourne- Jordan Gysberts (Eastern Rangers).
12. Carlton- Kane Lucas (East Fremantle). Thought that the blues were going to select a forward with this pick but they have gone for a midfield type player that maybe can push forward.
13. Adelaide- Daniel Talia (Calder Cannons). The Crows would have been wrapped that he slipped through to 13 as this kid has got some goods.
14. Sydney- Lewis Jetta (Swan Districts). Related to the other Jettas and was probably going to go earlier.
15. Western Bulldogs- Christian Howard (Glenelg). Christian was surprised to hear that he had been selected at 15 by the dogs because I heard that he wasn't expected to be picked up until later on.
16. Port Adelaide- Jasper McMillan- Pittard (Geelong Falcons). Good news story stoked that he got drafted!
17. Geelong- Daniel Menzell (Central District).
18. Melbourne- Luke Tapscott (North Adelaide).
19. Richmond- Benjamin Griffiths (Eastern Rangers)
20. Fremantle- Nathan Fyfe (Claremont Tigers).
21. North Melbourne- Ryan Bastinac (Dandenong Stingrays).
22. West Coast- Gerrick Weedon (Claremont)
23. West Coast- Koby Stevens (Gippsland Power).
24. Essendon- Jake Carlistle (Calder Cannons)
25. North Melbourne- Aaron Black (Peel). I honestly thought that he would get picked up by Carlton at around the tenth pick.
26. Essendon- Travis Colyer (Claremont).
27. Brisbane- Callum Bartlett (Geelong Falcons). Heard good things about this player.
28. Geelong- Mitchell Duncan (East Perth).
29. Adelaide- Jack Gunston (Sandringham Dragons).
30. Collingwood- Luke Ball (St Kilda). After a deal couldn't be done on draft week, Ball finally got his wish by heading to the Lexus Centre.
31. Western Bulldogs- Jason Tutt (Ainsle).
32. St Kilda- Nicholas Winmar (Claremont). No that isn't a typo, that is Nicky (champion from St Kilda)'s newphew.
33. Essendon- Anthony Long (Calder Cannons). That is another Long playing for the Dons.
34. Melbourne- Max Gawn (Sandringham Dragons).
35. Richmond- David Astbury (North Ballarat Rebels).
36. Fremantle- Joel Houghton (Perth). A few WA boys been drafted so far.
37. North Melbourne- Jamie MacMillan (Oakleigh Chargers).
38. Sydney- Sam Reid (Murray Bushrangers).
39. Hawthorn- Sam Grimley (Northern Knights).
40. Geelong- Allen Christensen (Geelong Falcons). Good to see Geelong getting one of the local lads.
41. North Melbourne- Ayden Kennedy (Eastern Rangers).
42. Geelong- Nathan Vardy (Gippsland Power). I heard that Nathan was the pick of the ruckman and at number 42 he should be a steal.
43. Carlton- Marcus Davies (North Hobart).
44. Richmond- Matthew Dea (North Ballarat Rebels).
45. Adelaide- Sam Shaw (Oakleigh Chargers)
46. Hawthorn- Benjamin Stratton (East Perth)
47. Brisbane- Ryan Harwood (Glenorchy).
48. Fremantle- Jesse Crichton (North Launceston).
49. Fremantle- Dylan Roberton (Dandenong Stingrays)
50. Melbourne- Jack Fitzpatrick (Western Jets).
51. Richmond- Troy Taylor (South Alice Springs).
52. Fremantle- Justin Bollenhagen (South Adelaide).
53. North Melbourne- Brayden Norris (Murray Bushrangers)
54. Sydney- Byron Sumner (Woodville-West Torrens)
55. Sydney- Trent Dennis-Lane (Subiaco)
56. Geelong- Josh Cowan (North Ballarat Rebels).
57. Hawthorn- Jordan Willams (Bendigo Pioneers)
58. Hawthorn- Rhan Hooper (Brisbane). One of the few recycled players to be picked up. This one was a bit of a surprise but I thought that he would get picked up either in the National Draft or in the Pre-Season Draft.
59. Carlton- Rohan Kerr (Dandenong Stingrays).
60. St Kilda- Jesse W Smith (North Melbourne). He had been linked to a few clubs including Geelong and Melbourne but just like they have done in the past the Saints have taken a punt on unwanted players or players that want to leave.
61. Adelaide- James Craig (North Adelaide).
62. Collingwood- Ben Sinclair (Oakleigh Chargers).
63. Western Bulldogs- Lukas Markovic (Eastern Rangers)
64. St Kilda- Adam Pattison (Richmond). I reckon he would be a better player at St Kilda.
65. Geelong- Jeremy Laidler (Promoted Rookie). Showed promise in the Nab Cup and a couple of games this year will be handy in the backline.
66. Melbourne- Pass
67. Richmond- Jeromey Webberley (Clarence)
68. Fremantle- pass
69. Hawthorn- Taylor Duryea (Murray Bushrangers).
70. Hawthorn- Matthew Suckling (Promoted Rookie).
71. Richmond- Ben Nason (Central District).
72. Carlton- Samuel Jacobs (Promoted Rookie). Good to see that Carlton has promoted this guy. Saw massive potential in him in 09.
73. Brisbane- Jesse O'Brien (North Adelaide).
74. Adelaide- Brodie Martin (Promoted Rookie).
75. Collingwood- Josh Thomas (Redlands)
76. Western Bulldogs- Shane Thorne (Wanderers)
77. St Kilda- Will Johnson (Sandringham Dragons)
78. Richmond- Pass
79. Fremantle- Greg Broughton (Promoted Rookie). Liked the look of this boy. Is going to be the future in the Fremantle backline.
80. North Melbourne- Cruize Gartlett (Promoted Rookie). Good to see him promoted. North and Fremantle have a good batch of youngsters it would be interesting to see how they go in 2010.
81. Sydney- Pass
82. Port Adelaide- Daniel Stewart (Promoted Rookie).
83. Carlton- Aaron Joseph (Promoted Rookie). Very talented this boy. Given him the name of Slim Shady.
84. Brisbane- Bryce Retzlaff (Labrador)
85. Collingwood- Simon Buckley (Melbourne). Still can't understand why Melbourne got rid of him, he would be of benefit to Collingwood. Maybe they can edge out Shane O'Bree.
86. Western Bulldogs- Liam Picken (Promoted Rookie). Is so much like is old man Billy who played for Collingwood. Showed some great things and deserves to be a permanent in the Bulldogs lineup.
87. St Kilda- Zac Dawson (Promoted Rookie). Does deserve to be elevated. Had a great year in 09 and will only get better.
88. Port Adelaide- Wade Thompson (Promoted Rookie). Now with Rodan having a knee op, he will be a handy person in the Power outfit.
89. Richmond- Robin Nahas (Promoted Rookie). So glad to see this guy elevated. I saw him shine for Port Melbourne and it wasn't a surprise that he would be playing AFL one day.
90. Sydney- Kristin Thornton (Promoted Rookie).
91. Brisbane- Matt McGuire (St Kilda). Was a bit of a surprise but Brisbane are now going for the kill so they might as well pick up another recyclable player.
92. Western Bulldogs- James Mulligan (Promoted Rookie)
93. St Kilda- Luke Miles (Promoted Rookie)
94. Richmond- Andrew Browne (Promoted Rookie)
95. Brisbane- Pearce Handley (Promoted Rookie)

This is the National Draft that was held on November 26. The next post will have the Pre-Season and Rookie Drafts....

Tonight is the AFL Draft yay!

Yes in just a matter of time we are going to find out which players go to which club! All the young players are waiting with baited breath to find out where they are going to and which kid is going to be picked by Melbourne at Number 1.

This is the year that teams want to get the best players that they can so that they can build before two new teams come in, the Gold Coast in 2011 and then West Sydney after that, then the current AFL teams won't get the main selections because the Gold Coast will take several picks in the top ten. So basically you do not want to get the wooden spoon in 2010. It's a master stroke from the AFL so that there would be no tanking that's for sure next year.

The two players of focus that are certain to go one and two are Jack Tengrove and Tom Scully, two good picks Melbourne should get. If they pick anyone else in those picks then it would be big surprise really. A word I heard is that the tallent pool wasn't as deep as previous years but from past years it doesn't really mean a lot because tallent is based upon hard work in my book. Jack Watts will come on for Melbourne in time but I was very surprised last year that they didn't pick Daniel Rich or Nick Natinui but they have obviously seen something in Jack which fits in well with their structure. Melbourne is in a building fase at the moment but with the two that they are going to pick up in the top of the order, it will definately help with the rebuilding stage.

I am going to be interested in seeing how some teams pick and which way they are going to go with especially what type of players that they need. Carlton have left a gap with Fevola going up North and with their defense still a little shaky they are areas I'm sure they will target. Richmond need more rebound, so that's the type of player that they will be seeking or maybe more of a figure up forward, they are also in the rebuilding fase but have more at this stage. Fremantle are going to get purchase out of their young players and need to continue to play these. My team Geelong need to stock up the rucks and maybe defense when the likes of Scarlett and Milburn retire and now the retirement of Tom Harley. There are teams that are around about and with the right players to support the main players they will compliment them. Teams like St Kilda (my pick for the flag next year), Brisbane and Adelaide.

There are players that need a new home and it would be interesting to see where they head off to. Players like Luke Ball who wants to go to Collingwood but could go earlier than 30 which is the first pick from Collingwood. Teams like Melbourne or Essendon could pick them up. Then there is Matt McGuire who has been training with Carlton but I wouldn't rule out a Melbourne picking him up at a later stage if he does slip through later in the draft. Teams are reserved about picking up ex players as a lot of them want to reserve picks for kids so that they can build a team. But to me the best teams have a great mix of experience and youth because those youth can learn from the experienced players to create good teams, just look at Geelong and St Kilda.

Yep the 2009 Draft is on tonight and I'm excited to see what is going to happen. I will have my draft annalysis and the picks for you later.

Better late than never

Trade week has been and gone. This is truly what I think. There was some good trades and ones in my book that left me scratching my head. It does leave a lot of questions that I think in time would be answered of who is going to get value when it does come to the trades that have been made. Let's look at these and what I think of them. I would love to get your views on this.

First trade of the week came on the Monday Morning where Josh Gibson and pick 69 went to Hawthorn from North Melbourne in exchange for Picks 25 and 41. Hawthorn have picked up a quality player in Gibson and still only 25 there are still some good years left in him. North Melbourne still are going for the youth which is where they are heading building for a future. I personally think that this is a good trade as North have picked up higher picks for Gibson.

Second trade of the week saw Andrew Raines going from Richmond to Brisbane for pick number 44. Interesting trade. Raines wasn't getting his opportunities at Richmond and is more than a capable player who would be of benefit to Brisbane. Whether pick number 44 would be a fair trade is another thing. I personally think that was fair as he is a little older and if Richmond picks up a star in the rough then they would get the upper hand in this deal.

The third trade which had been pre-organised before trade week but was made official was the Brock McLean trade which saw him go from Melbourne to Carlton in exchange for pick number 11. This probably seemed fair for both parties but realistically I don't think that he was worth giving up a top 15 draft pick and would have given something around the 20-25 mark for him. Don't get me wrong, he is a good player and in a better side like Carlton he would be of benefit to them but wasn't worth pick 11.

The fourth trade of the week was one of the more complicated ones. This one was a three way deal that involved Brisbane, Sydney and West Coast where they exchanged players and picks. In the deal, Brisbane received Brent Staker from West Coast, Amon Buchannon from Sydney and the Number 39 pick. Sydney received Mark Seaby and picks 28 and 55. West Coast received Bradd Dalziel and picks 22 and 118. Not a bad swap really as quality players have gone to the three clubs plus the picks really matched the players that they had to give up.

The fifth trade saw Barry Hall being traded to Western Bulldogs for pick 47. To me the pick matched the player. The dogs were looking for a power forward and probably can only give 2 years to the Bulldogs which would mean that it could put them in a position to win a premiership which to me has been the only thing that they have lacked and now have. Pick 47 means that the Swans can look at getting someone that they can invest time into to create value to the Swans.

Trade number 6 saw Andrew Lovett go from Essendon to St Kilda for pick number 16. To me really the ones that got the best deal is Essendon. Lovett is a good player but isn't worth pick number 16 so this is now good bargaining power for the Dons. St Kilda are going with the building players from other clubs again, to me they have some good youth and should look more into that.

The next trade saw St Kilda get Brett Peake from Fremantle in exchange for pick 48. Not a bad exchange really as Brett Peake has good potential but was being held back at Fremantle and the Dockers have found diamonds in the rough back in the draft, so I believe that this is a good deal.

The next trade saw Jay Schultz go from Richmond to Port Adelaide in exchange for Mitch Farmer and pick 72. Not really sure about this trade really. Don't really know much about Mitch Farmer but Richmond probably have seen enough in this kid that he can be a real find for the Tigers. Jay Schultz is not a bad player. But I think in this case it's a matter of finding young players for each side to build a foundation for the future.

The next trade saw Darren Jolly go from Sydney to Collingwood in exchange for picks 14 and 46. Collingwood are at a stage where they need to go for a quality ruckman in Jolly as Fraser and Wood are not holding the fort well especially with Fraser breaking down with injury. This trade probably means that the young wood is going to be shut out a little more. Getting pickes 14 and 46 for Jolly is good and Sydney have done really well in this trade as they can look to rebuild with some quality young players as well as the experience that they have. They have obtained Mark Seaby which is someone to take the more senior ruck post in the absence of Jolly.

This trade was an interesting one. Xavier Clarke going from St Kilda for Pick 60. Not a good swap in my book. I know that Xavier has had his injury worries but St Kilda should have kept him. There are a lot of people that have said that they have got rid of the wrong Clark and I am kind of agreeing with them although I do believe Raph will come good. Pick 60 though is not worth it!

The next trade saw Shane Mumford go from Geelong to Sydney for pick number 28. As a Geelong supporter I am sad so see Shane go as he had a great season playing 18 games while Brad Ottens was injured. As he is only young at 23 he could be of value at the Swans and with them picking up Mark Seaby as well that's going to enhance their midfield division. Pick number 28 is not bad get for him though as Geelong can go for players who will then stock them up for the future.

This trade was sort of a surprise really. Josh Kennedy and Ben McGlynn going from Hawthorn to Sydney in exchange for picks 39, 46 and 70. Not a good trade really! Sydney have the best deal here! Josh Kennedy maybe but definately not Ben McGlynn. He was one of the players for Hawthorn that held the fort while some of their stars weren't playing and Hawthorn shouldn't have let him go. The picks that they have got back for Josh and Ben to me did not match the quality of players that they are and if I were Hawthorn I would hope that there is some quality players of the future would be present for these picks.

This trade had been brewing all week and finally it got done, the Shaun Burgoyne deal would be the most complicated trade of this trade week. There were would be four teams involved swapping players and picks to make it all happen. Hawthorn got Shaun Burgoyne from Port Adelaide. Port gets Jay Nash from Essendon and picks 9, 16 and 97. Essendon gets Mark Williams from Hawthorn as well as picks 24 and 33. Geelong gets picks 40, 42 and 56. Very Complicated, don't know if I can truly understand it but Hawthorn finally got their man as I have said before I personally don't think that he's worth as much but Hawthorn obviously do. Mark Williams going to Essendon was a surprise but the pick 16 that they got from St Kilda was good as bargaining power to get Williams and also obtaining 24 and 33 is not bad. I think that Essendon and Port Adelaide have got the best deal is this trade.

The next trade had been in the mix and it got done late week. Marcus Drum to Geelong from Fremantle in exchange for pick 49. I personally think that Geelong should have gone after him originally being a Drum and he has presented well in what I have seen of him but really he needs a fresh start. This is good for the Cats but it's just a matter of what area he fits into the side.

Ok yes Brendon Fevola got traded and realistically there are a lot of people that aren't happy with this. There were a few clubs that were keen on him initially and there were rumours that were incorrect. Anyway Brendon went to Brisbane and pick 27 in exchange for pick 12 and Lauchlan Henderson. Hmm not too sure about this one. To me there would be other ways of dealing with the Fevola situation rather than the trade but I believe that they needed to take action so it's hard to know what to do. Lauchlan Henderson is a top ten draft pick that would serve the Blues well but by getting rid of Fevola they have put themselves back by some time unless they can recruit a key position forward for the intrim.

Well that's trade week over with. There were a lot of trades. What do you think? Were they all fair? Tell me by emailing me at carefactor0@live.com.au. More footy to follow. I will have my review of the year and also more on the draft.

Catch ya!

Trade week

Ok so as we know this week is the trade week. There has been some good trades and one's that I'm not too sure about. I will have more of what I personally think at the end of the week when everything's finalised.

The two main trades that nothing has been finalised or anywhere near finalised at this point of time is the Shaun Burgoyne trade going from Port Adelaide to his preferred destination which is Hawthorn. There is a number of sticking points including yesterday the reports (mind you from a Adelaide newspaper) that suggested that Campbell Brown would be involved with pick number 9 for Burgoyne. To me he's not even that good Burgoyne! He definately isn't worth that for sure. Definately pick 9 because Shaun isn't a spring chicken and to get a spring chicken for him now will definately pay dividends in the future! If you want to through in something then maybe a later pick but definately not as Hawthorn supporters are saying the Heart and soul of the club! My suggestion is think carefully about this Hawthorn! There is conflicting reports suggesting what actually went on of whether he was offered up or not, we'll find out more later on. The other trade on offer is Brendan Fevola. I would love to see him at Carlton cos he is a perfect fit for them to see out the rest of his career and besides without a forward like him, they can't win a flag! It was suggested by a strong source that Sydney had offered him a four year deal with what trades I'm not too sure! The other team after him was Brisbane who are aparently offering Daniel Bradshaw and Michael Rischetelli, which to me seems an ok swap but definately Brisbane will have a better deal, but something worth considering. More to follow...

I will post more after Friday about the trades. I will also have my year in review which will be a long one but definately worth it when I do post it. So stay tuned.....

Should he or shouldn't he?

Brendon Fevola....that's all I got to say! What do you do?

I don't know whether or not he should be cut from the Carlton list how do you ever know. All I know is that I have a theory of what could happen next.

You see take things back some time ago when Brendon acted up again and Carlton said that if he had one more incident where it involved alcohol then he would be out the door. That is clearly what they have done this time around. To me Carlton don't want to get rid of Fevola, I mean after winning the Coleman medal again this year and what he offers why would they want to. But due to the fact that they don't want to go back on their word and keep him this time round, they have decided to offer him as a trade. Not only do they want to get something back for him but I truly believe that they felt like they had to do this so that if no one wanted Fevola then they would keep him, hense then Carlton wouldn't look as bad. That's what I truly believe.

The next question is who would want him? Sydney looked to be the front runners although I think that their interest has declined. Others have said that they don't want him, maybe Brisbane. You can see that Carlton's plan is working can't you?

What a game! What a Grand Final!!

Can you believe it? Another AFL season has been and gone and first of all I should say Congratulations to the Geelong Cats for winning the 2009 AFL premiership. A mighty effort in itself!

The week and the build up to the game was massive! I personally had the priverlege to go to the game, my first grand final in 14 years and things have definately changed since then. The main thing is that since I was 15 when I last went, I don't really remember the four grand finals I have been to previously, now I am a bit older this is something that I definately will remember for a long time now. The build up as I mentioned before was massive because of the many functions during the week and with the Pre Match entertainment. I enjoyed that because one of my favourite singers of all time MR Jimmy Barnes performed No Second Prize. There was also Mark Seymour and John Farnham which was the best! I must admit though even though it was good it wasn't as good as previous years but still enjoyable. I remember thinking before the game "Hurry up I just want the game to start!" And then it started....

The biggest game of the year with the two best teams of the AFL. It was building up to be a massive game. It started that way with Max Rooke kicking the first goal (and at 21-1 he was not a bad bet) from a great tackle on Clarke. The whole game was a bit of a struggle really both sides having a real dip, with St Kilda leading at quarter, half and three quarter time before Geelong kept St Kilda goaless in the last quarter to win by 12 points. I won't go into all the details on the day because I think a lot of people have watched the game and those Geelong supporters will be watching it over and over again. I will mention a few things though. It was one of the best Grand Finals I have ever seen, since the last couple had been a fizzer this one had a bit of punch to it! The umpiring was probably more of a talking point (when is it not) on the day. For one thing there was a goal awarded to Tom Hawkins that clearly hit the post. Another is a shot after the siren to Adam Schnieder at half time to put them in front by 6 points after Darren Milburn went off at the umpire. The free kick was there but doesn't that go back to the middle? There was a couple of other descisions or non decisions that were there that could of influenced the game but it didn't or probably wouldn't have. People have said that Geelong were a little lucky but when you look at it those decisions wouldn't have made any difference because St Kilda had their opportunities to win and like Geelong of last year they didn't. In this game you really have to make the most of your opportunities otherwise you just don't win. St Kilda may have got lucky last week but was meant to win in the sceme of things and Geelong were going to win on Saturday. The Norm Smith Medalist on countback was Paul Chapman of Geelong.

Yes if I were a Saints fan I would be disappointed too. The heartache is incredible! I had it last year when Geelong missed opportunities and Hawthorn took them, that and a little luck along the way. One thing's for sure is that if I were a Saints fan I would also be proud of the boys for what they achieved in the year, which is a lot. I also believe that they are so close to winning a flag and if they get in the Grand Final next year I would put my money on them bigtime, and I'm not just saying that I truly believe it. Yes St Kilda had an opportunity but realistically as Mark Thompson said on Saturday "Footy can suck sometimes" and I can truly feel your pain. But rest assure you will win a premiership soon, just stay with the Saints they are good enough!

On the other scale, for Geelong fans victory is sweet as it was only 12 months ago we were feeling like St Kilda fans are feeling right now. What a difference 12 months can make!

Now for all 16 teams after all their end of season drinks and more drinks and even more drinks there is the dreaded culling of the list, then draft, then pre season begins and the hard slog is there for preparation for season 2010. I will have more on those including a wrap up of the year as well as each of the 16 teams in review. Then it's draft time! More to follow...

One last thing. Congratulations again to the Geelong Cats who won both the NAB Cup and AFL Premiership in their 150th year celebrations! Well Done what a mighty effort!

Grand Final Preview

Well. It's the biggest game of the year, the one that 16 teams at the start of the year fight it out for but only two get the priverledge of going for. Those two teams for 2009, St Kilda and Geelong.

The biggest game of the year is such a massive understatement, it's HUGE! So much rides on this game, for the premiership glory. It's one of my favourite times of the year regardless of whether my team is in it or not. It has a massive build up which starts with the Brownlow Medal. Congratulations to Gary Ablett of the Geelong Football Club who took out the league's highest honor. Then the rest of the week builds up with functions and the Grand Final parade on Friday and then for the footy diehards (like me) the footy marathons are on various chanels. It's a massive build up for one game but you can understand why as there is a lot at stake.

Two teams in the Grand Final have had big years, St Kilda have won 20 games and lost two, both by under a kick, plus their finals form has been good despite only winning by 7 points. Geelong haven't won as many as St Kilda during the year but their form has been good including a convincing 73 point win over a once flag favourites Collingwood. Both teams carry form going into this week's game.

Who will win will be determined by a number of factors:
1. Will the wet and windy conditions favour any team? Or will this be a deterant for both teams?
2. Will it be Stop Riewoldt stop St Kilda? Or will St Kilda have more firepower up forward than Geelong can handle?
3. Who's midfield will have the upperhand at the end of the day?
4. Will Geelong avenge last years Grand Final loss? Or will the 43 year drought be broken for St Kilda?
5. Will the game be as hard and tough as it was in round 14?
6. Who will be best matched up?
7. Will there be any jubious free kicks that will determine the result? Or will the umpiring be good for once?

There will be many questions that in time will be answered. The uncertainty of things will rear it's ugly head once again. One thing for sure is that it will be a good game. Those who don't support any team will enjoy the spectacle, maybe apart from the bad weather. Even though I'm a Geelong supporter, the round 14 game was one of the best home and away games I've seen even though it didn't go the Cats way. People have said to me that because it's at the MCG the Cats have an advantage. Yes St Kilda only had one game during the season and three overall four including the Grand Final at the MCG, Geelong played there for times this year. I remember Geelong had less games at the G in 07 so I don't think that will fase St Kilda. Also they have played games at Subiaco and AAMI stadium which are bigger grounds, and they won those, so they can do well on the bigger grounds.

It does prove that it's how you play on the day. Yes you can be the best side all year but that doesn't mean anything unless you can put together a performance on the biggest day of the year, just ask Geelong of 08.

Below is my tips for the Big Day of who I think will win etc. Believe you me it was hard to pick but here it is anyway:

Winner= Geelong
Margin= 18 points
First Goal= Brad Ottens
Most goals player & amount= Nick Riewoldt 4 goals
Most Possessions= Corey Enright 32
Norm Smith Medal= Corey Enright
Crowd= 98,632

Well here it is. All I can say is GO CATS!!!!!!

After the weekend.

Well. The two Grand Finalists have been decided and congratulations to St Kilda and Geelong for getting there. It's an achievement in itself to make it to the Grand Final and between these two teams whoever wins thoroughly deserves it!

Friday Nights game was a beauty! With a place in the Grand Final up for grabs it's what you would expect! St Kilda hosted the Western Bulldogs at the MCG. It was the Dogs who jumped out of the blocks early and it was their true grit that I thought could cause an upset. But St Kilda like they have all year came out and pegged the game even. For the rest of the night it was an arm wrestle before a Nick Riewoldt soccer goal sealed the game by 7 points for the Saints. There was a bit of a debate with the umpiring especially one decision to award a free kick to Nick Riewoldt after Brian Lake bumped him off the ball. Technically it was there after players were warned but the fact that Justin Koschitzke bumped Brian Lake after was the bit that should have meant that the decision should have been reversed. The fact that the result was under ten points was the reason why there was so much controversy. There were other decisions that were bad but I also believe that if the Western Bulldogs kicked straight then that would have made all the difference. It's heartbreaking for the Dogs who lost two years in a row on Preliminary Final week.

To Saturday Night and Geelong hosted Collingwood at the MCG. I don't know what was more annoying, the rain or the seagulls that were trying to get into the ground for free! LOL! Anyway early in the first quarter Collingwood were up and you thought that it was going to be Collingwood's night. But then Geelong came out and wrestled the lead back and maintained control. The pies hit back in the second quarter before Geelong went on to thoroughly outscore Collingwood and win by 73 points. The Cats played one of the best games I have seen them play in ages. If they play like they did on Saturday night on Saturday then the Cats will win.

So it leaves two teams in the race for the 2009 Premiership, who will it be? Will St Kilda win their first flag since 1966? Or will Geelong seek redemption for their disappointing loss in last year's Grand Final? If it's anything like the round 14 clash then we're in for a treat. Either way you look at it, it's very hard to pick the winner. Towards the Grand Final, I will be posting my thoughts leading up to the day and my tip of who I reckon will be this years Premier and other tips.

Tonight though is the Brownlow medal count. To be honest I'm not really good at predicting this but I'll have a go anyway. Here is my top 5:
1. Dane Swan (Collingwood)
2. Nick Riewoldt (St Kilda)
3. Gary Ablett (Geelong)
4. Leigh Montagna (St Kilda)
5. Joel Selwood (Geelong)

My roughie is Brendon Goddard and others that will poll well is Chris Judd (Carlton), Nick Dal Santo (St Kilda), Leon Davis (Collingwood), Joel Corey (Geelong) and Brendon Fevola (Carlton).

Finals Week three preview

Oh my goodness the second last weekend of the season is here! Who would have thought. This is a big week to see who plays off in the 2009 AFL Grand Final. Nothing is ever as it seems and it could be a week which we will remember for quite some time! It could go the way that people think or the unknown factor could rear it's ugly head. What will it be?

St Kilda vs Western Bulldogs (MCG) Friday Night.
This game has the unknown factor. The Saints have been the best side all year and should go through to it's first Grand Final since 1997. But yet again will the "Bulldogs fight and Bulldogs roar" come into it to make it the first time that the Bulldogs have been in a Grand Final since 1961. Either way one of these two teams will have a chance of winning their second flag next week. Match ups are going to be the key, some people say in the midfield but I believe that it could well be against the St Kilda forwards after all Nick Riewoldt kicked five goals against Collingwood in the Qualifying final so that could be where the game is won. Both teams are co tenants of Etihad Stadium and don't get a huge amount of exposure to the MCG but I think at this stage that won't worry either side. It's just a matter of who will occupy the space better and get the most run. If the Dogs get their running game happening then they could be in with a good show, however if Lenny Hayes and Montagna get the most ball then they will win. I would say that St Kilda will win this by 26 points and go through to perhaps win their second premiership.

Geelong vs Collingwood (MCG) Saturday Night.
I wrestled with this game bigtime! There are so many factors that could turn this game either way. Collingwood played in that unbelievable semi final that saw John Anthony kick the goal to win them the game. They also played in tough warm conditions that could impact on them, to me it would just depend on how well they recover and if they spent a bit more time on recovery this time round. Geelong on the otherhand earned the week off by defeating the Bulldogs by 14 points and there were signs that the running and hard hitting Geelong were back. Both teams match up well and if Collingwood can come out like they did last year where they beat the Cats by 86 points then it could be their night however if Geelong doesn't allow that to happen and play their own game then Geelong will have a good night. It will be a tight game but I do believe that the Cats will prevail by 15 points to go into their third consequtive Grand Final.

Tough games. Any one of those four teams can make the Grand Final. Should be a awesome couple of games!

Catch Ya!

All Australian side 2009

You know it's nearing the end of the footy season when the All Australian side has been announced for another year. I reckon it would have been a hard decision for this year's side considering the candidates in the squad were of the highest quality. I wouldn't want to be on the selection panel that's for sure.

As I was looking at the team that was being announced, there were a couple of surprises but not really when it comes to the year that they've had but rather the players that missed out. I agreed with a lot of the team as you can see in my previous post which said my side, so I was happy that I got some right (doesn't happen very often) but I did get some really wrong. Below is the All Australian Team for 2009 with what I honestly thought:

B: Corey Enright (Geelong)- Good choice had a great year. I didn't have him in the back pocket but rather on the half back flank. You can say I got him correct for being in the backline but not for the actual position. This was a good choice as he doesn't get the recognition that he deserves and this is the first time that he is in the All Australian Team.
Matthew Scarlett (Geelong)- One of the best Full Backs of all time, some would argue the best, but that's another discussion all together. He had a great year. Not as good probably as 2007 but it was still a year that has put him out in front for the All Australian team.
Brian Lake (Western Bulldogs)- Good choice, had him in the back pocket in my team. In 2009 he took his game to the next level playing on some good quality opposition and winning. Finally getting the recognition that he deserves and maybe a few extra dollars in his contract Rodney? Has a big task this week against Kosie or Roo and it will be interesting to see who he picks up.

HB: Simon Goodwin (Adelaide)- I don't know about this choice to be honest. Granted he has had a good year but I cannot give him credit. What is it I don't know? I personally think that this position should have been someone else's maybe that's it. In this position I had Corey Enright who has already been named in the back pocket and I totally overlooked Simon Goodwin.
Craig Bolton (Sydney)- Interesting choice but warranted choice. I had him in the back pocket but believed that he had a great year and thoroughly deserved his spot in the team. One of the lesser profile players in the Swans team but he maybe a more senior player to the young ones coming through Sydney.
Nick Maxwell (Collingwood)- Had probably one if not the best year ever. I put him on my bench in the squad that's because I originally couldn't name him in the backline. Nick was probably a little surprised at his selection but humility is something that I have admired with his captaincy.

C: Leigh Montagna (St Kilda)- Good choice, was one of the reasons why in that midfield of theirs that St Kilda flourished. I had him in my midfield because you couldn't deny the stats and how him with the others in the midfield fed it to a awesome forwardline.
Lenny Hayes (St Kilda)- This guy gets better as he gets older. He has always been good but this year has been his best. Throughly loved watching his run and carry to the forwardline (need I say anymore than that) and that's why they won the games they did.
Joel Selwood (Geelong)- Great Choice First All Australian. One of the most Fearless players in the AFL. For only 21 and what he has done this guy to me will win a Brownlow before his more decorated teammates Gary Ablett. Big call I know but it's what I believe. The midfield is exactly how I had it.

HF: Paul Chapman (Geelong)- People were surprised that I didn't have him in the side considering that I am a Geelong supporter but I thought that he didn't play enough games to warrant it. Mind you what he did in the games he played was great I personally thought there were others that for me should have been in the team. But well Done Paul anyway.
Nick Riewoldt (St Kilda)- Obvious choice for me for the Centre half forward position. Has had a good year. Has been criticised for his kicking at times but boy wouldn't you love to have him in your side. Someone like Nick to kick to would be awesome because he has a good chance of kicking it. One of the players that I admire in the AFL.
Dane Swan (Collingwood)- My choice for the brownlow really. Had a wonderful year in the midfield but because that's full he has to fit in the forward position. Really he deserves it with his stats and he can kick goals as well to me really deserved to be in the starting team.

F: Leon Davis (Collingwood)- Had Leon Davis in my Supercoach team some time into the year but not in my All Australian Team. Not too sure really why maybe ran out of positions. I must admit he has had a good year and was one of the players that really needed to lift and has answered beautifully. With the goals that he kicks and the plays he sets up he is vital for the Collingwood set up.
Brendon Fevola (Carlton)- Man he is a good player. Backing up 99 goals last year and over 80 this year is a mighty effort. One thing that he had improved on was his forward pressure which had set up goals for himself or his team mates. Plus he should get goal of the year, I personally think Ablett's should win but his was mighty good.
Jonathan Brown (Brisbane)- For me I couldn't fit him into the starting squad but I did put him on the bench. Coming second in the Coleman Medal behind Brendon Fevola has meant that he thoroughly deserved being in the team. Love his mark and I always enjoy watching him kicking for goals as I reckon he has one of the best actions I have seen.

Foll: Aaron Sandilands (Fremantle)- Well it does help Aaron that he's the tallest player in the league! Really he has had a good couple of years which has put him ahead of all other ruckmen. I had Hamish McIntosh as my pick as I thought he also had a good year. But when you look at it the likes of Sandilands who is tall (which does help) can play well around the grounds kicking goals as well.
Chris Judd (Carlton)- Couldn't go past having this guy in the team he is amazing! Love watching Chris Judd play he just reads the ball well and sets up a lot of play as well. He works hard and he is a good leader which I believe has helped the Blues over the last couple of years. It would be interesting to see how he goes in 2010 and how he will poll in this years Brownlow.
Gary Ablett (Geelong)- Another obvious choice. Had both Judd and Ablett in my team both All Australian and Supercoach. Worked hard this year and has had his best year. Champion data has indicated that he will poll well in the Brownlow after the stats gave him a glowing report. Ablett has more important things to worry about than a Brownlow like winning another premiership.

Int: Matthew Boyd (Western Bulldogs)- Had him on my bench, had to be included in the team and I'm glad he was. Would go close to winning the Dogs Best and Fairest after having a consistent year.
Nick Dal Santo (St Kilda)- Only because he couldn't be fit into the orginal 18, he had to be fitted on the interchange. Has had his best year like the Saints after being dropped half way through the year, he has recovered well taking his game to the next level. Good choice for Nick to be in the side.
Brendon Goddard (St Kilda)- I had him at Centre half back and to me should have been in the starting side. But due to the quality of players there he could only manage to be on the Interchange. Definately a good choice.
Adam Goodes (Sydney)- Had him on the half forward flank but due to a quality forwardline in this case Adam could only manage to be on the interchange. One of the best players I have ever seen and he again is consistently good hense the name Goodes.

Captain: Nick Riewoldt (St Kilda). Obvious choice
Vice Captain: Chris Judd (Carlton). As above.

There we have it the All Australian team for 2009. Overall I would give the team 8 out of 10 as there is still quality but to me there were some players that missed out that should have been in the team. Ones like Sam Gilbert from St Kilda who had a fantastic year across the backline. I thought that Mark Le Cras from West Coast and Jason Porplyzia were a little stiff. Maybe next year.

All Australian predictions

Here are my predictions for the All Australian team to be announced tonight.

B: Brian Lake (Western Bulldogs) Matthew Scarlett (Geelong) Craig Bolton (Sydney)

HB: Corey Enright (Geelong) Brendon Goddard (St Kilda) Sam Gilbert (St Kilda)

C: Lenny Hayes (St Kilda) Joel Selwood (Geelong) Leigh Montagna (St Kilda)

HF: Dane Swan (Collingwood) Nick Reiwoldt (St Kilda) Adam Goodes (Sydney)

F: Mark Le Cras (West Coast) Brendon Fevola (Carlton) Jason Porplyzia (Adelaide)

Foll: Hamish McIntosh (North Melbourne) Chris Judd (Carlton) Gary Ablett (Geelong)

Int: Jonathan Brown (Brisbane) Nick Dal Santo (St Kilda) Matthew Boyd (Western Bulldogs) Nick Maxwell (Collingwood)

Captain: Nick Reiwoldt (St Kilda)
Vice Captain: Chris Judd (Carlton)

After the weekend.

Wow it's now getting down to the business end of the season with only four teams remaining. Who will end up being the top two teams for the year? So much has come out of the weekend in the big build up to the two preliminary finals this week. I do love this time of the year regardless of whos in the finals, it creates so much interest.

Friday night saw Western Bulldogs host Brisbane at the MCG. What I saw of this game it was rather scrappy. Both teams had to deal with the blowy conditions that probably didn't make it easy for footy. Slow start by both teams eventually gave way for a bit of a blow out by the Dogs to win by 51 points. Not a bad effort but the reports that I have heard is that the mood was like the Dogs lost in the dressing room after the match. I would say it was more disappointment in their effort regardless of the fact that they had won by 51 points. It would be waranted but at the end of the day I would say that they should be proud as they did pretty much what a lot of people thought as I don't think that the Lions are ready to progress at this stage but do give it time they will be better for the experience. To me really they shouldn't have won last week because they were staring down defeat at one stage in the last quarter. Now the Dogs have a date with St Kilda in next week's first Preliminary Final on Friday Night at the MCG. Brisbane have Mad Monday (if they are allowed to) and a build up to 2010. Friday Night's game is going to be interesting between the Saints and the Dogs to see who takes the First spot in the 2009 Grand Final. I just hope that the crowds will be more than 60,000 for this game which I reckon they should be.

To Saturday Night and Collingwood hosted Adelaide at the MCG. Boy what a game! Adelaide started well and looked to have controlled the game. But Collingwood's second quarter is what really got them back into the game, that and the fact that Adelaide didn't score a goal in that quarter. Between the next couple of quarters, the game was close including in the last quarter the lead changing a couple of times before a free kick in the forward 50 to Jack Anthony ended up winning the game for the Pies by 5 points. Anthony was emotional after the game. Who said that footy doesn't mean anything to people! It means a lot! And his post match comments were "I contributed, it was only a little bit but that's all that mattered" which I thought was excellent. Could it be that I am giving a compliment to a Collingwood player? Hmm. Anyway. It was disappointment to Adelaide who had a good year but one thing's for sure if they go top four next year they will go even further next year! Now Collingwood have booked a spot with Geelong on Saturday Night at the MCG in the Second Preliminary Final. The winner to play either the Saints or the Dogs in the Grand Final. By what early reports suggest, this game is going to get at least 80,000 probably 90,000 and above, it should be an electric atmosphere. Both these teams played in the 2007 Preliminary Final in front of 98 plus thousand fans. Will the Pies avenge the result of two years ago or will the cats go through to their third concecutive grand Final? One things for sure it's going to be a ripper!

So it's down to four. Who will be in the Grand Final? One thing I know for sure is that it's going to be a all Victorian Grand Final which will be awesome. Great for the sport in general. I will have more comments during the week and my preview for the two massive Preliminary Finals.

Catch ya!

Preview for Finals Week two

This week in the AFL there are two big games that being the Semi Finals. These are what's known as the do or die clashes as the loser goes out and the winners through to the Preliminary Finals, one to play St Kilda the other Geelong. Last week saw two teams exit, this week will also see two teams exit in the race for the 2009 AFL Premiership.

Second Semi Final: Western Bulldogs vs Brisbane (MCG) Friday Night.
People have thought about this more straight forward than me. A lot of people would have thought that the Western Bulldogs were an obvious choice for this game, but that's where I give Brisbane credit. They have got a side that could do things this year but if they don't they will go higher next year. The odds are against them to charge further into September but as I've said it's a funny game and you never can be really sure about what's going to happen. Western Bulldogs on the otherhand are a team that could do anything, play really good or not play so good. They haven't been in a grand final since 1961 and won a flag since 54, it's a long time ago but it's something that could be in it's reach with the right manpower and attitude. Whether it would be this year is another thing but it's that unknown factor that could pop up again. The Dogs were oh so close last year only losing to the Cats by 20 points can they go one better this year? They pinched that third spot at the last moment this year beating the Pies who people thought were a real chance to win the premiership this year and still could. But last week they were outplayed and they missed their opportunities that could have made the scoreboard interesting. The right mix of players for both clubs is going to come into play tonight. Brisbane have the forwards in Brown and Bradshaw and on fire can really cause trouble. Western Bulldogs on the otherhand don't have the big forwards up forward but make up for it with Johnson and Higgins. Matchups are going to be the key and if the Dogs matchup well then it could be their night otherwise Brisbane will own this game. To me after careful consideration I think that the Western Bulldogs will win by 19 points.

First Semi Final: Collingwood vs Adelaide (MCG) Saturday Night.
Now this game I have wrestled with mainly due to the unknown factor that presents itself here. You can say that the in form side is Adelaide with the way that they have put sides away in the last three weeks, they do look the goods. Bernie Vince in the midfield and with a forwardline that they haven't had for a while gives them the boost that they need. Collingwood on the otherhand have injuries and really shouldn't have played Rocca last week, it was way to risky now they are finding out the hard way. To me they have done well without him and really should go back to the team structure and formula that has kicked them into form. They do have key players out but that's when Collingwood could come out and play their best. The Pies had beaten Adelaide over at AAMI Stadium so that they know they can do it at the G. Adelaide have the momentum and know that they could win anywhere. If Adelaide don't capitalise on the fact that Collingwood are missing players then they will be overun by eager Collingwood players looking to impress if they do then they will win. Collingwood have to kick in the fact that they have the home ground advantage if there is any such thing and the fact that they play well there and find something within themselves in order to win. I personally think that this game will be a belter......oh and a good game too lol. The Magpies will win by 8 points.

Interesting to see how I go with this but to see who goes through to the Preliminary Finals next week.

Catch ya!

After the weekend.

The first week of the finals have been and gone and two teams have had their seasons ended in the first week. Some exciting games ahead and interesting times as well.

To Friday Night and Adelaide hosted Essendon in an Elimination Final at AAMI Stadium. Well for Essendon fans it wasn't pretty as Adelaide won by a whopping 96 points proving that they are a real threat this finals series. Essendon have a lot to regather and move forward to 2010. I think that they will be better for the run in the finals and they can only get better next year. Adelaide on the otherhand will look towards next week in order to progress to the Preliminary final.

To Saturday and Geelong hosted Western Bulldogs at the MCG. This game I built up I thought that it was for any team to win really. Geelong had a good start getting out to a 28 point lead at Quarter time and I thought that a start like that on the G is something that is needed. But to the Dogs credit they came back and in the third quarter got within 10 points, but it was the Cats who held on winning by 14 points. The good thing for the Dogs is that they have another chance next week and would need things going for them for them to get through to the Grand Final at this stage. But one things for sure, footy is a funny game you just never know. Geelong on the otherhand have a week off to get over any niggles that may present to them.

To Saturday Night and Brisbane hosted Carlton at the Gabba. Carlton came out all guns blazing before a couple of goals from Brisbane pegged it back for them a bit. Carlton then got out to a bit of a lead before Brisbane stormed back to win by 7 points. It was a disappointing end to the season for Carlton who to me should have won that game and that should spur them on to do great things in 2010. Brisbane have another chance next week and it would be interesting to see how they go.

To Sunday and St Kilda hosted Collingwood at the MCG. This game would be a test for both sides to see where they're at. Collingwood had a good start before St Kilda then controlled the game winning by 28 points. To me St Kilda are now definately the side to beat and if anyone beats them then they are going to well deserve the premiership. Collingwood on the otherhand have some work to do before next week and they would be hoping that they would have a good list to choose from.

So here are the games for next week:

2nd Semi Final: Western Bulldogs vs Brisbane (MCG) Friday Night.
1st Semi Final: Collingwood vs Adelaide (MCG) Saturday Night.

Finals Week one preview

Man I can't believe that it's up to the Footy Finals, September is upon us and the reason why AFL teams strive! There are some really good tough games (to tip that is) and even though footy tips have ceased for 2009 I am still going to be tipping thoughout the finals.

Adelaide vs Essendon (AAMI Stadium) Friday.
Adelaide have come off a rather impressive win against Carlton which to me against any side they would have won. The question for me is that whether that momentum and form will carry them into the finals and especially against the Bombers week one. Essendon on the otherhand are without some of their stars mainly due to stupidity rather than injury, will that cost them? Or will there be an unknown X factor that pops up and steals the game fromt the Crows. The thing to me is that Adelaide should really win this game with the match ups that they have with the mix of the experienced players plus youth. Essendon to me are about a year or two out of contention to go far in finals mainly due to the young but tallented youth. Adelaide of late haven't had a good run with finals but in this case I believe that they will win this game by 29 points.

Geelong vs Western Bulldogs (MCG) Saturday.
I wrestled with who to tip for in this game to be honest. On Etihad based upon form I would have tipped the Dogs. But being on the MCG it could mean that any side really could come out all guns blazing. The main thing is form and I know the Cats don't have that as much as the Dogs do. Geelong beat Fremantle but they were expected to do that whereas the Dogs have beaten the Cats and Collingwood within the last couple of weeks. If Geelong can come out like the team that they had been for the last couple of years they will win and sort of comfortably. But with the recent form of the Dogs especially the way that they played against the Pies indicates to me they have the upper hand. I am however going to go against my side and tip Western Bulldogs by 11 points only based upon form, man I hope I get that one wrong!

Brisbane vs Carlton (Gabba) Saturday Night.
Another tough game to tip. Brisbane have question marks over a couple of their star players which could hamper the Lions, Carlton are going into the game just about full strengh. The main question marks will be whether Black and Drummond would play, the likes of Bradshaw and Merret are playing however they have to pass fittness tests. I personally think that they would play but how they would go with those injuries or injury clouds are another thing. Jonathan Brown is one player that seems to do well against the Blues and if the Blues were to stop him then that will go a long way towards them winning the game. If Fevola can get his kicking boots on that will be another deciding factor in the game as well. Hard one to tip but in this case I am tipping Brisbane to win by 13 points.

St Kilda vs Collingwood (MCG) Sunday.
Wooow boy this is a tough game, so many factors that could decide this game. Collingwood lost a game that a lot of people pencilled them in to win that could spur them on. St Kilda have been the best team all year and have won the last time they played at Etihad by 88 points. Things have changed since then as the Pies have found some consistency in their game and won many games before last weeks game. St Kilda have only played at the MCG last week for the first time this year, will this work in their favour or against? Collingwood have played more games there including finals. The prospect though of both teams having another chance will comfort the losing team and will mean that they would probably win next week. I wrestled with this one but I have tipped the Magpies to win in a semi upset just because they have more games played at the MCG in the last couple of years and they will win by 22 points.

It's interesting though with these games. I know I did struggle with 3 out of 4 games. Adelaide should beat Essendon but Essendon really come up with the goods when no one would expect them to win so it should be an intesting one to watch. I know that this final series is going to be a good one and anyone could win the premiership at this stage. I am looking forward to watch it to see who has the form going through the finals series.

See how I go
Catch ya!

Double standards

I want to talk about double standards.

With what happened with the Matthew Lloyd bump (after all it has been publicised a lot) there was a lot of things to come out of this.

First of all. You would think that Matthew Lloyd would have come out as the villian here, not really. Yes he did do the wrong thing, that's why after much consultation they decided to take the four week suspension meaning that he will not take part in 2009 which to me was the right thing to do, that's if they learned anything from the Franklin incident. In this case Lloyd has only become the villian in the eyes of the Hawthorn Football Club. The rest of the football community has said that he was stupid and deserved the four weeks and gotten on with things, it's the Hawks who are the ones going on with things.

They are talking about him being a snipper and deliberately took Brad Sewell out. Who know's maybe he did, maybe he was going to do something to ignite the game. I would too, maybe not to that extent but something just to get the players into the game. That to me could have gone either way. Either it could have meant that Hawthorn would have come out and bury the Bombers and they will be the ones playing finals or it could have done what it did and ignited the Essendon Football Club to go on and win the game.

Hawthorn are known for going out and doing the same sort of thing. Hasn't the coach done the same thing to a player in the past when he played? Sounds like to me a bit of double standards. If you don't like that being done to you then don't do it to other people. I am not saying what Matthew did was good, in fact he was stupid and did deserve the four weeks and even if he got six then that would have suited what he did. It was how Hawthorn conducted themselves afterwards that is the most disappointing thing.

Campbell Brown coming out and making threats is not good. You are going to call me crazy here (hey I have been called worse) but on the Friday night I had a dream that included Campbell and I was talking to him saying to calm down, don't say anything else just let the powers be. How ironic it was that it came true and it was in reference to the Matthew Lloyd bump. Just thought I should share that with you, not that you probably care.

I just found the aftermarth of this to be the disappointing thing. It's ok to say what they thought of the incident, but just don't go on with it. Leave it alone, please for everyone's sake. And as for making threats, just watch what you say otherwise it comes around and bites hard!

Double standards I hate it!

So the finals race is here!

Yes Finals is upon us, my favourite time of the year by far! And with some games on the weekend it has in fact shaped the finals a little differently than I thought, of what we all thought for that matter. Here are the games in case you were wondering:

1. First Elimination Final: Adelaide vs Essendon (AAMI Stadium) Friday 4th September 7:45pm Adelaide Time 8:15pm on the Eastern States.
2. Second Qualifying Final: Geelong vs Western Bulldogs (MCG) Saturday 5th September 2:30pm AEST.
3. Second Elimination Final: Brisbane vs Carlton (GABBA) Saturday 5th September 7:30pm AEST.
4. First Qualifying Final: St Kilda vs Collingwood (MCG) Sunday 6th September 2:40pm AEST.

So there you have it. It will be hard to tip this week I reckon. But it does shape up to be a great finals series. Whoever wins the premiership is gonna deserve it I reckon.

After the weekend.

With a blink of an eye, the 2009 home and away season is now officially ended and for eight clubs it's mad monday, for the other eight the quest for finals is ahead. There are some really good games ahead which will take interesting shape but I will look into those a little later.

To Friday night and West Coast hosted Richmond at Subiaco. And after not a bad start from Richmond, West Coast then took over and ran away winners by 80 points. It was a disappointing end to Richmond's season who said farewell to Nathan Brown and Mark Coughlan. What will the future for these two players? Only time will tell. On the otherhand West Coast finished off the year rather well and could be one of the teams to watch going into 2010.

To Saturday and Geelong hosted Fremantle at Skilled Stadium. Geelong controlled the game pretty much which was what was expected to win by a comfortable 40 points. To me Fremantle have got a bit to learn about playing in Victoria, but with the list they have they will eventually kick into gear. They do have a good starting block at home, if they win more away then anythings possible for Freo. Geelong have still got room for improvement if they are to go far in September.
To the MCG and Hawthorn hosted Essendon in what was going to be the game that decided who takes 8th spot. And what a game! Hawthorn started with a blaze of glory and I thought that they could take out 8th spot plus some momentum going into September. But it wasn't to be. A game changing bump from Matthew Lloyd on Brad Sewell which sparked a massive blue kick started the Bombers into gear who went on to win by 17 points. Brad Sewell was left with a damaged jaw and the Hawks fuming at him saying that he has a tendancy to line people up. What? He is one of the softest players around, to me he needed to do something, maybe not to that extreme in order to prove that he's not! He will go for that. If Franklin can get two weeks after appeal for something that I still consider line ball then he will definately get more! Otherwise Hawthorn will genuinely have something to complain about! After all they are a hard at it side they should have been expecting something like that was coming to them! To me Lloyd did something that could have gone two ways. Either Hawthorn would have come out and thumped Essendon or it would have ignited Essendon, it turned out to be the latter.

To Saturday Twighlight. I know sounds funny doesn't it? Carlton hosted Adelaide at Etihad Stadium. This was another game that I was looking forward to as it would decide who takes fifth spot and book a home final. Carlton came out and started well before they ran out of steam and Adelaide completely dominated and won by a massive 72 points. It's something that the Blues did not need going into the finals an honorable loss would add character, but if they can rebound next week then anything can happen. Adelaide on the otherhand has got a home final and momentum going into the first week of the finals.

To Saturday Night and Sydney hosted Brisbane at the SCG. This game had everything, well just about but it offered more than what I thought. Sydney were out to farewell three of their champions, Michael O'Lauchlan, Jarrad Crouch and Leo Barry. Brisbane was wanting momentum going into the finals as they hadn't had the best record against Sydney. This time it was Brisbane taking the points and booking a home final by 8 points.
Over to a rain logged AAMI Stadium and Port Adelaide hosted North Melbourne. Both teams were wanting pride going into 2010 and Port were hoping to send off two of their champions in Brendan Lade and Peter Burgoyne. It was pretty much low scoring, goals were at a premium and it took a 50 metre penalty against Nathan Krakeour for North to pinch the game by 4 points. Both teams will need to regroup and refocus in order to set themself up for 2010, it will be interesting to see what happens there.

To Sunday and Melbourne hosted St Kilda at the MCG. Melbourne started well and you thought that maybe just maybe there could be an upset but it was St Kilda who proved that they should be premiership favourites and won by 47 points. Melbourne could be reasonably pleased with their effort but there is a lot of improvements to do if they are going to press forward towards 2010 including top draft picks.
To Etihad Stadium and Collingwood hosted Western Bulldogs in a clash that could shape the remainder of the eight. It was a good game because both teams took turns dominating and for a while. Then in the last quarter the Dogs took charge and ended up winning by 24 points going past the 22 points that they needed in order to sew up 3rd Spot. So that now shapes up the eight and here it is:

1. St Kilda 20-0-2 156% 80
2. Geelong 18-0-4 127% 72
3. Bulldogs 15-0-7 123% 60
4. Magpies 15-0-7 122% 60
5. Adelaide 14-0-8 118% 56
6. Brisbane 13-1-8 107% 54
7. Carlton 13-0-9 110% 52
8. Essendon 10-1-11 98% 42
9. Hawthorn 9-0-13 93% 36
10. Power 9-0-13 89% 36
11. Eagles 8-0-14 93% 32
12. Sydney 8-0-14 93% 32
13. Kangaroos 7-1-14 83% 30
14. Fremantle 6-0-16 77% 24
15. Richmond 5-1-16 74% 22
16. Melbourne 4-0-18 75% 16

Round 22 preview

Ok this is officially scary! We are at round 22! And to my tips this week.

West Coast vs Richmond (Subiaco) Friday Night.
Really this game has no bearing on finals or anything but rather pride. Both teams will want to show something to give to supporters going into 2010. Will any of these teams be massive improvers for 2010 or will it be same old same old for both clubs? After the season has been done and dusted then I will look into 2010 for these two teams. In this game though I will say that West Coast will win by 25 points.

Geelong vs Fremantle (Skilled Stadium) Saturday.
To me this is a game that will indicate whether Geelong are at all serious about their prospects going into the finals. The Cats have a massive task when it comes to September and the likelihood of going far for me doesn't appear to be great. For Fremantle it would be for pride. Their record in Victoria has been shithouse and would need to play out of their skins like last week to have a chance. On the otherhand their list has got some potential and will be something to consider going into the 2010 season. In this game though the interstate horrors will continue for the Dockers and the Cats will win by 47 points.

Hawthorn vs Essendon (MCG) Saturday.
This game is a mini elimination final! The finals have come early, not just in this game but in other games in round 22! There are some question marks in this game that will be answered no doubt in due course. First of all. Will Lance Franklin's absence mean the difference between the two sides or will Hawthorn step up to the plate and win? Will Essendon be all guns blazing after a disappointing game last week in the west? Who will the the X factor in this game? It was a tough one to tip but after much deciding I am going to tip Essendon by 13 points.

Carlton vs Adelaide (Etihad) Saturday.
Another mini final. Both teams are sitting 5th and 6th on the ladder and the winner will have a home final. A lot to play for in this game! Both teams are matched good and have players that have the potential to bust the game apart. Take Murphy, Fevola and Gibbs for Carlton all players have done well this year and have complimented Chris Judd in that midfield. On the otherhand there is Knights who to me has been a massive improver this year as well as Kurt Tippett, then there are the younger players like Otten and Dangerfield. There are exciting times ahead for both teams. In this case Carlton will win by 5 points and deserve fifth spot.

Sydney vs Brisbane (SCG) Saturday Night.
I didn't know who to tip in this case as there were so many factors that could lead either way. First of all there are three greats for Sydney who are hanging up the boots and deserve a great send off. Brisbane will be looking at being a threat come September and have a lot to play for there. Being at the SCG has given the Swans a bit of an advantage. And Sydney have had the wool over the eyes of Brisbane since 2004 only losing one of those games which I find staggering. Will this hoodoo be broken? I think it will, I am going for Brisbane to win by 14 points.

Port Adelaide vs North Melbourne (AAMI Stadium) Saturday Night.
Port have a slimmer of hope of getting into the 8 but need to beat North Melbourne by over 100 points which I find highly unlikely. North Melbourne will be looking at backing up the upset of the year over St Kilda to finish off the year strong. Regardless of making the eight, Port will want to do the same. I think Port will win for retirees Peter Burgoyne and Brendan Lade by 35 points.

Melbourne vs St Kilda (MCG) Sunday.
I nearly wrote in their Etihad Stadium as St Kilda have played a lot of games there and this is the first at the MCG this year. They are playing Melbourne and they will win but it would be interesting to see how they play and occupy the space of the MCG. They have done well on bigger grounds interstate so I don't think that they will have a problem. As someone said to me, in their premiership year, Geelong only played a couple of games before finals at the MCG, so maybe the same will happen for the Saints. Anyway if Melbourne gets within 40 points I think they will be doing good and St Kilda will win this game by 48 points.

Collingwood vs Western Bulldogs (Etihad Stadium) Sunday.
Hmm another I'm not sure about. Cast back to earlier on and the Pies held on to win by 1 point. Recent form has Collingwood ahead in this one but the Dogs will have some real confidence after beating Geelong by 14 points last week. If the Dogs get their running game happening then they are in with a real shot here, on the other hand if Collingwood dominate in the midfield then they will win. Hard choice but I am tipping Collingwood based upon form to win by 29 points.

Thought of the week

Well well well. The Richmond coaching job has finally been decided and good luck to Damien Hartwick. Basically peoples I told ya that that would happen. The writing was on the wall, and the wall had Damien's name written all over it! The question is: What can he do at Richmond to lift that club from a bottom four team to a finals contender? I personally think that there is a lot that needs to be done at Richmond in order for them to improve. Basically for a start, it's all good and well getting a new coach one that in my opinion will help separate men from the boys but there is a lot that needs to be done off the field in order for them to move forward. It's been a mixed bag the last several years and really the Tigers haven't been the same team since 80-81 with the exception of a few finals appearances.

What needs to happen now is a reshuffling of the board. A new CEO was needed. The president and CEO need to be on the EXACT same page before working out the shit that is needed off the field, most importantly getting things settled with the board is important as a minimum. Then there is the carry over of that into the players, getting things settled in their minds. Then there is list management. There are some tough decisions that needs to be made regarding the current list. Which senior players need to be there and which ones are not required before working out which other players (mainly in the 20-25 bracket) that is not pulling their weight and either work with them give them an altermatum or get rid of them. There are some tallent in the club but realistically there is not enough of it at this stage to really get excited about but I believe that that will come in time. Do you get rid of Richo or do you keep him? I personally think he has got another year to offer, after that I'm not too sure. Heaven forbid if they get rid of Richo! He is the Richmond football club!

As I mentioned before, Richmond have had a varied time when it comes to where they finish on the ladder. Last year they finished the dreaded 9th and this year are towards the bottom of the ladder, the year before near bottom of the ladder and in 2006 they finished 9th again ahead of Geelong. In that case they should finish 9th shouldn't they next year? I think that a lot of Tigers supporters will be happy with that considering where they are now and I think under the new coach they will be around the 9th or 10th position next year if they get any further than that then they should be proud of themselves. We'll see what happens I suppose.

Another thought that I had is that the debate regarding Lance Franklin appealing the original one match ban and then getting two as a result for being found guilty. I'm not really too sure what to make of it to be honest. In real time it didn't look all that bad but the tribunal people had to consider some things in all of this. For a start. Could he have tackled Ben Cousins or avoided contact? I reckon no to both. Also Ben Cousins was knocked Out and didn't return for the rest of the game and may miss this week so that is a major part of it. If he walked away that would have lessened the blow of the demerit point system. Also the fact is that he had carry over points that contributed to him getting one week in the first place. The seriousness of concussion combined with his carry over points in my book means that one match maybe was sufficient. But on the otherhand the seriousness of the bump means that there is going to rules put into place to outrule it and take away the physicalness of the game which is crap if you ask me. Go back to the start of the year, and Nick Maxwell appealed and got off for his bump if you ask me that was more serious than Franklins. If that's the case then Lance should be successful in the appeal when he goes to the appeal board. You have got to be fair about these things, to me the Nick Maxwell incident served as a prescendent which didn't start there but had been introduced this year afterwards. If Nick Maxwell got off then maybe Franklin should have. You see how this is difficult don't you? Maybe Franklin should have taken one week and gotten on with things.

Footy's an interesting game the players create the interest!

My theory on the Richmond coaching job

Ok there is a lot of speculation regarding who will pick up the Richmond coaching role. To me I think that Damien Hartwick will get the job and I will tell you why.

Think to the North Melbourne job for a sec. North wanted Nathan Buckley, they made no secret on it, they wanted him real bad! He however accepted a predecessor job at Collingwood making him the next coach at Collingwood. So, North thought right we will get one of their assistants and they chose Brad Scott to be their next coach, ironically enough from Collingwood.

So that leaves the Richmond job up for grabs. A few years ago Essendon nabbed former Richmond great Matthew Knights over Damien Hartwick who to me at the time was so ready to coach. After he was overlooked for that position and also the North Melbourne gig I thought that that had opened the door for him to go to Richmond. Just think about it, Essendon got Matthew Knights formally Richmond player and Damien Hartwick to go to Richmond, a former Essendon player. You can see the irony in that can't you if that were to happen.

Just like Brad Scott's appointment there will be an irony in the Richmond job. Who know's they could surprise me and go for Ken Hinkley the other choice and who will make a great coach someday.

Interesting times ahead

I must have to say painfully congratulations to the England side for winning the ashes. I know what you're saying WHO CARES....right! Like it was for the ashes being painful knowing that after a while in that last test that we couldn't win it, it was like me for last years Grand Final. But like all good sportsmans (and womens) we have to congratulate the winner!

But!!!! There are some things that I would have to say about this other sport. Maybe the Poms deserved to win the last test but that's where it stops! I personally think they are a bunch of cheats where karma should have come and bite them on the arse! Take you back to the first test in Cardiff where in my book they wasted time bringing out the Physio when there was nothing wrong with them, I mean even the English commentators said that there was a way in which to take up time and not to. I know what you're saying. We should have got that last wicket and then we would have, but to me the bit that disappoints me was the fact that they deliberately wasted time and made it painfully obvious that blind freddy could have seen it! If it was the fact that that didn't happen but we didn't get the wicket then well that's the end of that! People can argue with me til they're black and blue they still cheated! The Poms are going to say that we are whingers that we lost the ashes well if that's the case then aren't we direct desendents of the English, that must mean we inherited something from our forefathers.

Getting back to footy! I never really took any notice of this because as a Geelong supporter I was too disappointed after last year's Grand Final to care. Basically at first I would congratulate Hawthorn on winning the premiership but then there was a could of things that came out of that game as apposed to other grand finals that we have lost. Our kicking was our enemy and to be honest that was what I thought was one of the main deciding factors in the Grand Final. That and a couple of flukish goals from Stuart (marshmallow) Dew that sealed the deal. But taking that all aside. How would it have gone if we kicked straight or that they didn't rush all those points (11 I think) then Hawthorn would have been in big trouble MR! To me they fluked the game. That and the fact that the deliberate rushed behinds come into it, if it was today then they would have had goals kicked against them! In a way Hawthorn cheated but mainly got lucky. Lucky the fact that Geelong didn't kick straight or that the rushed behind rule wasnt enforced a year earlier! Let's just hope that England get slaughtered in the return ashes series!!!!!!!!!!

After the weekend.

Ok ok ok round 21, it's been and gone who would have thought.

To Friday Night and Western Bulldogs hosted Geelong at Etihad Stadium. When Geelong came out and kicked the first goal or two I thought that it was going to be Geelong's night. But then out came the doggies that we know, fast paced and full of life and in the third quarter when the cats were down by over 30 points I thought they were totally gone and the Dogs were going to run away big winners. But to Geelong's credit, they came back and at three quarter time were ahead by 2 points and I thought that this was going to be a good finish to the game regardless of the result. But it was the Dogs night and they held on to win by 14 points. A couple of questions were raised from this game. Would the Dogs sustain this type of pressure and be a threat come finals time? And. How will the Cat's go with this lack of form going into the finals? Only time will tell I suppose.

To Saturday. Carlton hosted Melbourne at Etihad Stadium. I wanted to see how the young players of each team, in particular Melbourne would go under the pressure of a rising Carlton team who for the first time since 2001 will play finals. At first Melbourne did play well and forced Carlton to make mistakes who were uncharacteristic of them of late. But Carlton came out and turned it on in the second half showing why they should be in the finals and won by 57 points. Melbourne have a lot to learn if they are going to move forward next year and it will be interesting to see which way they recruit and build from here.
Over to AAMI Stadium and Adelaide hosted West Coast. This game had the potential to be a hard fort game that can go anyway. But Adelaide totally dominated from start to finish to win by 74 points. West Coast had three wins on the trot and has brought some much needed confidence going into next year where they could be a growing threat for the finals. Adelaide on the otherhand will either finish 5th or 6th and if they host a final they will be a strong contender in the finals. The Carlton vs Adelaide game will be a good one next week and will decide who finishes 5th and 6th.

To Saturday Night and Brisbane hosted Port Adelaide at the Gabba. The way that Port had been playing away this game should be a facinating one to watch. Port came out and kicked ten goals straight in the first quarter to lead by over 40 points and I thought wow it's going to take something pretty special here for the Lions to even get back in the game the way the Power is playing. It wasn't until after half time that Brisbane really started to come back and not only did they get back into the game they got in the lead and won by 15 points. To me what got me about his game is the way that Port didn't finish off the game. They had the potential to do something and they didn't have enough steam. To Brisbane's full credit though they turned a game that could have got ugly to them sitting pretty after the game. Well done Michael Voss you have got these boys into the finals! How far can you go? Only time will tell.
To the MCG at Richmond hosted Hawthorn at the MCG. This was Hawthorn's last chance to be in contention with getting into the finals, they lose and there is no hope! Richmond showed some bite early but the Hawks came out and dominated on their way to a 42 point win. It wasn't convincing but at least it gives them some sore of chance going into the last round.

To Sunday and St Kilda hosted North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium. After last weeks disappointing 2 point loss to Essendon, the Saints would want to put that behind them and have a good win. Well that's what they thought. North came out and kicked the first five goals and it was de ja vu to when they played early in the year, I was waiting for the saints to kick into gear and come back and win this one. They did come back but some stubbon football from North came out and they won in a thriller by 5 points handing St Kilda their second straight loss. It's amazing with regards to the fact that they appointed a new coach North Melbourne and they won for the caretaker, how thoughtful. People are now making statements like "Are St kilda getting a little wabbly" my answer to that is that they will be right this is going to make them stronger. After all look at who they still have in the side, that's more than what Geelong or any other team have got.
To the MCG and Collingwood hosted Sydney. For a brief second in the second quarter this game was close but realistically Collingwood were always going to win this game and they did by 41 points. Collingwood have a good starting block to win the flag this year, and I think they will play St Kilda. I can tell you if that was the Grand Final then the AFL will be rubbing their hands together!
To the last game of the round and Fremantle hosted Essendon at Subiaco. A win to Essendon here can cement a place in the eight and shut Port Adelaide and Hawthorn out. By Essendon's standards after their big win last week, this week they didn't have any of that and Fremantle totally dominated the game and won by 54 points. That leaves Hawthorn and Port Adelaide in the race for the finals although I personally think that Hawthorn has got the best chance out of the two. Next week we have Essendon and Hawthorn at the G on Saturday afternoon for the right to play in the finals. I will dicect the eight next week with the probabilities before the round 22 games to see what most likely would be the ladder.

Round 21 preview

Round 21 is upon us and well things are going to get interesting as things shape up for the finals.

Western Bulldogs vs Geelong (Etihad) Friday Night.
Well this game shapes up to be a beauty. Both teams match up pretty well and both play Etihad really well regardless of both teams recent form. Last time these two teams played the Cats won by 2 points after Brad Johnson had a chance to win the game after the siren but missed. Make no mistake, if the same thing happened I don't think this time he would miss the shot. I still think it would be another close game and I'm not 100 percent sure of my tip this week but I am going to give the Cats another go and they will win by 4 points.

Carlton vs Melbourne (Etihad) Saturday.
This game at the MCG would be interesting, but given it's at Etihad this would definately give the Blues an advantage as Melbourne don't play this ground as well. It would be interesting to see how the Demons go after a good win last week. But Carlton are in the best form at the moment and could be a possibility to trouble some teams come September. In this case the Blues will win by 69 points.

Adelaide vs West Coast (AAMI) Saturday.
Both teams have come into form. Adelaide will play finals and West Coast have a slight chance if everything goes their way. West Coast have won three in a row and this momentum will help them in this game. Adelaide travelled to Melbourne and won against the Hawks. To me I believe Adelaide will win this game but not after a good challenge from the Eagles and will win by 15 points.

Brisbane vs Port Adelaide (Gabba) Saturday Night.
Believe you me I was struggling with who I would tip in this game. Do I go for the upset or do I go with the flow? You never know with Port Adelaide which team will come out to play, they could cause an upset. Brisbane however lost their last game at home last week against the Dogs and I don't think that they lose this one they will win by 26 points.

Richmond vs Hawthorn (MCG) Saturday Night.
This is the absolute last chance for Hawthorn! Lose against the Tigers and their season is gone, no chance of making finals! They have to win this game, it is after all very winable. Richmond on the otherhand have Mr Miracle in Graham Polak coming back from that horrific injury when a tram hit him and will play his first game back since then. I am going to give them one last chance the Hawks, don't win this they are Hacks and don't deserve to play finals. But I think they will win and the old Hawthorn will come out and win by 32 points.

St Kilda vs North Melbourne (Etihad) Sunday.
Really this was one of the easiest tips for the round. St Kilda lost and lost by 2 points that proves to me that they would bounce back and win this game. North will challenge but not enough and the Saints will win by 70 points.

Collingwood vs Sydney (MCG) Sunday.
This shapes up to be a good game. Collingwood have had the wool over the eyes of Sydney for the last couple of years or so. Sydney regardless of whether they have won or not have played well and they could upset the Pies here. I personally don't think that that will happen and the Pies will win by 45 points.

Fremantle vs Essendon (Subiaco) Sunday.
Had to think about this game, so many factors could decide it. Essendon came off the upset of the year and Fremantle were crap against Melbourne. Being at Subiaco will help Freo.....to play a bit better anyway. The main question is how the Bombers would go after a win like they had last week and the injuries how that will effect them. I personally think that Essendon since they lost last time they played at Subiaco will win this one because they need to to stay in the finals run and will win by 8 points.

Well that's my tips let's see how I do!
Catch ya!

Finally they have decided

There has been a lot of speculation with regarding the two coaching vacancies at North Melbourne and Richmond who would get these two jobs.

At Richmond they are still deciding. Either they have a very complex system that they have to adhere by or they a just too picky. Why are they taking so long?

With North Melbourne the media and other figures have jumped on them to make a decision when in fact Richmond seem to have more time by the media. Maybe that's because the head hunchos at North have hinted that they may make a decision soon regarding the top job. They made their decision to go with Brad Scott former assistant coach at Collingwood. Is this the best choice for them? Really you never know, you've just got to take a chance.

Damien Hartwick had been linked with the North Melbourne coaching job and to me would make a really good coach. That's really the second time he's been linked with a team then not get the job. Maybe he is going to Richmond after all? Or maybe he isn't the right pick for any club and that there would be another position that could become available that he would be perfect for, like.....oh I don't know.....Port Adelaide? Who knows why North have gone for Brad Scott over Damien, but there must be a really good reason why that's the case. I can tell you that there are a lot of North supporters who are happy with the decision so maybe they know something I don't know.

To the Richmond job, who's going to get that? There are a couple of names that had been linked with the final stage and I will be so glad once that's over! Names that I like include Damien Hartwick, Ken Hinkley and Jade Rawlings. Those three will make good coaches but who they will coach remains a mystery. I will say this though. If Ken Hinkley misses out on the Richmond job, then he is my tip to be the next Geelong coach when Bomber finishes up. Maybe they should follow Collingwood and Sydney's lead with appointing the next coach now. Saves this painful process that clubs have to go through.