View Full Version : AFL Round 12 Western Bulldogs V Brisbane Lions Official Thread
AFL Premiership Round 12
http://home.iprimus.com.au/jpk/122008/Title.GIF
http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/3053/dogskc3.png ------ V ------http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/899/lionsyr5.png
________________________________________________________
Saturday 14 June 2008
MCG (http://www.austadiums.com/stadiums/stadiums.php?id=120) 2:10:00pm (Local Time) Melbourne Forecast (http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDV10450.shtml)
TV (ALL LIVE UNLESS STATED)
Qld: Channel 10
Vic: Channel 10 (Delayed)
SA: Channel 10
WA: Channel 10
TAS: Channel 10
NT: Channel 10
NSW/ACT: Channel 10
RADIO
Vic: ABC, MMM, 3AW.
Qld: ABC, MMM, BIMA.
SA: 5AA, ABC, MMM.
WA: ABC, BIMA, 6PR.
NSW/ACT:ABC
Tas: ABC.
NT: ABC BIMA.
Ladder:
http://home.iprimus.com.au/jpk/122008/Ladder.GIF
Last 6 Rounds:
http://home.iprimus.com.au/jpk/122008/L5L.GIF
Win-Loss Sequences:
http://home.iprimus.com.au/jpk/122008/SWL.GIF
Recent history:
http://home.iprimus.com.au/jpk/122008/Last10.GIF
The Brisbane Perspective:
Originally Posted by Warwick
Brisbane Lions perspective minus obligatory openning joke
Them:
Brisbane return to a venue they have had plenty of recent success with one of the toughest jobs in football - trying to tame the massively improved Bulldogs. There is no doubt the Dogs are barking. 9 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss by 3 points. They are the highest scoring team in the land, ranked number 1 in marks, number 2 in total disposals, and have a pack of players in the form of their lives. The confidence from season 2006 has well and truly returned after a horror finish to last year. They are playing to their strengths - hard running, pin-point disposals, support in numbers, and sharing the load up forward. In fact, what was seen as a weakness last year with no tall forward, has turned into a strength with a multitude of medium sized options that all know where the goals are. They have also got good value from their new recruits with both Welsh and Hudson playing some good footy. And Aker is almost playing like it was 2005 again. It's hard to believe this is the same team as in 2007 with wins against the likes of Hawthorn, Adelaide, and Sydney. And to think they are doing it without Scott West as well.
Us:
Brisbane on the other hand, have won 4 on the trot and know they need to start beating the teams above them to be any chance of a top 4 position. It's going to be hard if the likes of Bradshaw, Roe, Drummond, and McGrath don't get up, but it will also give some others an opportunity. The Lions have not beaten the Dogs since 2004 and have lost their last 4 matches against them by an average of 31 points. Their hard running has troubled us in the past and it doesn't look like getting any easier. One advantage is that this game is being played at the 'G and not Telstra Dome. The Lions have always played better at the home of football and will enjoy the extra space. The Lions are also the best tackling, spoiling, and pressuring team in the competition at the moment. This will need to continue to deny the Bulldogs the time and space to use the footy.
Worth the price of admission alone: Simon "James Bond" Black vs Adam "Jason Bourne" Cooney
http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/9375/cooneyvsblackkq3.png
The race for the Brownlow is heating up with the three favourites in red-hot form. Two of these will be on show on Saturday, and although they won't be going head-to-head, the player that has the greatest impact will have a huge say on who wins the game and will potentially skip ahead in the race.
Cooney's rapid rise to the cream of the comp has been a large reason why the Dogs are sitting where they are. He is a more "explosive" player than Black and more likely to hurt teams on the scoreboard. But Black is Black. Still one of the top players in the game, the bloke doesn't play a poor quarter, let alone a poor game. He travels at a consistent pace but has the best hands and vision in the AFL. He is the suave, sophistiticated, smooth-moving James Bond to the more brash, rough-and-tumble Jason Bourne (Cooney). It will be a fascinating contest.
I'm Back...
So who gets Cooney? You would have to think it's Sherman. After a disappointing 2007 and a slow start in 08, Justin has found a new role in the team and performing it very well so far. He has limited the effectiveness of some of the prime movers in the competition while getting a bit of the footy himself. He has also managed to sneak forward and have a few shots on goal. Cooney seems a good match up for Sherman but Matthews may be inclined to give Selwood a job down back when the Coon Dog floats forward. Akermanis and Giansiracusa may also be likely targets. In any case, prepare to be Shermanated:
http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/3411/shermanatorxu2.png
Attack vs Defence
http://img397.imageshack.us/img397/7439/bulldogsusualsuspectsoe7.png
The Bulldogs' Usual Suspects:
The Dogs have skill all over the ground, from Gilbee, Williams, and Morris down back, to Griffen, Cross, and Boyd in the centre. But there is no doubt where their major strength lies. The Bulldogs have a wealth of talent up forward and it's pretty easy to see why they are the competition's highest scorers. Minson (11 goals) and Hahn (13 goals) have been able to play as taller targets, but it is their small-medium forwards we will really have to worry about. Akermanis, Johnson, Welsh, Murphy, and Giansiracusa have combined for a total of 105 goals this season and are all in top form. Murphy returns from suspension as well this week. While Brisbane's defense has done a magnificent job so far this year, we have really only had to worry about 2 or 3 danger men. This week there will be 6 or 7 so our entire backline will have to do a job.
But who do you think you are kidding Mr Eade...
But all is not lost just yet. The most underrated defensive outfit since Mainwaring's Warmington-On-Sea Home Guard unit is up to the challenge. Of course a lot will depend on whether Drummond, Roe, and McGrath return. These guys love to run and link and should get plenty of opportunities in a open and free-flowing game. It will be interesting to see who gets who because there are so many possible match-ups. At this stage with everyone playing, I would go Merrett-Minson, Patfull-Johnson, Roe-Welsh, Macdonald-Murphy, Drummond-Hahn, McGrath-Akermanis, Selwood-Giansiracusa. But as you can see, we will need all hands on deck.
Take from the rich and give to the poor? Or robbing Peter to pay Paul?
http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/9317/robinclarkwj5.png
The big question is where do you play the in-from Clark? He may be needed to help out against a Murphy or Welsh down back, or to cover for a potentially absent Bradshaw. If either of these things happen, we will have to play Leuenberger to cover him in the ruck. We lacked a bit of run when we played the 3 big men against the Dockers so it is not ideal. However, I don't think Bradshaw will come up in time, so I have him playing as a permanent forward at the moment.
The key for Brisbane / The Blatantly Plagerised Vidman Rat Pack:
http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/5043/ratpackei6.png
I've gone a slightly different Rat Pack to Vidman's and I believe these guys will be the key on Saturday. Corrie, Hooper, Brennan, McGrath, and Drummond (if playing) are the barometres for our team. When they are up and running, so are the Lions. Corrie is in career-best form and will be vital in finding the targets inside our forward 50 (something that has been lacking). Hooper has to tackle everything in sight and get his hands on the pill. I can't see the Dogs having a match-up for him if he plays in the centre so he will have to make the most of it. Brennan has become one of our most reliable hard-ball winners, but I would like to see him float forward and stretch the Dogs' defense. He would also provide an interesting match-up for Griffen. McGrath and Drummond provide the run and carry from the back. All of these players work well in traffic and provide plenty of tackling pressure. They will have to do that this weekend because the Bulldogs don't miss targets if they have time and space.
The match-up we must win: 150th gamer Jonathan Brown vs The Player Formerly Known As Harris
http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/9291/brownvsharrisym1.png
Big milestone game needed by the big bloke on Saturday. He has been well held by Lake in previous meetings and you would expect the match-up again (if Lake is fit). Although the Terrace Old Boy Tom Williams has been given some big roles lately, I can't see him containing Browny so it would be a big bonus if Lake is out, or Bradshaw is in. If Bradshaw does miss, Brown will play closer to goals and give the Dogs a chance to double-team him or drop a man in his space. The Brisbane midfield have struggled to find a target when this occurs, so it's important the likes of Black, Power, Adcock, Notting, and Johnstone move the ball in quickly.
The Key Players:
The Joker in the Pack and The 6 Million Dollar Man
http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/292/johnsonjokerif8.png
There is no team Johnson likes playing more than Brisbane. He has constantly been a thorn in our side and has kicked 18 goals in our previous 4 encounters with as many goal-assists. We must find a way to stop his influence. I would look to Patfull as my first option.
Rebuilt with bionic implaints that enhance his speed, strength, and vision, other teams are slowly discovering the JMac. Is in blistering form and will have a vital role whether in the middle against Cross and Boyd, or in defense against Murphy or Akermanis.
The Blynd Freddie "Tip with your head, not over it" Official Prediction:
The Lions have a great opportunity to show their wares on the national stage on Saturday. The start will be vital. Both teams have recently struggled to put points on the board early, and momentum may be the key. While we have been winning, our skills have been lacking against some ordinary opposition. The one constant has been our ferocious attack on the ball and the man. This will be again the cornerstone against a team who are winning the ball and using it effectively. Another thing we have to improve on is our goal kicking. We will not get the number of scoring opportunities we had against Fremantle or North Melbourne so we need to take our chances. My head is pointing to our key injuries which couldn't have come at a worst time and saying the Bulldogs. My heart is unfortunately telling me to listen to my head. I think we will be a massive chance if Bradshaw and Drummond both play, but I think we will go in undermanned and just struggle to control the run of the Dogs. Here's hoping for an entertaining game...
Bulldogs by 19.
The Opposition Perspective:
Originally Posted by stefoid
Concentrating on the diggies because my knowledge of the brisbane side is poor.
this should be it:
Western Bulldogs
B: Dale Morris, Brian Lake, Dylan Addison
HB: Ryan Hargrave, Tom Williams, Lindsay Gilbee
C: Ray, Matthew Boyd, Daniel Cross
HF: Brad Johnson, Murphy, Daniel Giansiracusa
F: Scott Welsh, Will Minson, Jason Akermanis
Foll: Ben Hudson, Adam Cooney, Ryan Griffen
I/C: Nathan Eagleton, Andrejs Everitt, Gia, Stephen Tiller
EMG: Ward, Josh Hill, Peter Street
In: Murph
Out: Ward
Hudson to take his 97 points and a reprimand for his love tap, so will be available. Young debutant Ward to make way for Murph, as Everitt and Tiller are more likely to be in Eade's finals calcualtions than the schoolkid.
matchups: Williams to take Brown which will free up Lake to zone off whoever his replacement is to help out the other defenders.
Addison probably on Johnstone if he is playing forward, with morris as backup should he get off the leash.
Everitt to take a young tall like henderson or clarke should they come in for you guys, with hargreave to backup.
Boyd to play a defensive game on Black. He doesnt really do a hard tag, but he will make sure Black earns them and also get a stack of it himself.
Up forward, you would be better off playing someone who can run off minson, since he cant mark the ball - he just wants to get it to ground and nobody will stop him from doing that.
Aker - obviously you know you need to play a dedicated stopper on him who wont leave his side 100% of the time. He is in 5 touches = 3 goals type of form.
You obviously have to tag cooney and possibly griffen if you have that many taggers. Cross and Boyd will get a lot of it regardless but arent as damaging as either of those two.
I dont see any clusters or zones or rugby style tactics in this game, which is a nice change - just a good tough game with both teams going at it helter skelter - we like to move the ball as quickly as possible and run forward a bit, so it will probably be a fairly high scoring game. I predict something like WB 18 goals to Lions 14 goals. (if we have our kicking boots on)
Thanks to Warwick and stefoid for the previews and lionbear for the midia info.
Warwick you funny **** haha! Just brigtened up my day :D. I think Brisbane by 2 points.
TheBrownDog
10 Jun 2008, 20:21
Haha, great work Warwick. Thanks to weevil, LB and stefoid as well.
notting18
10 Jun 2008, 20:25
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA That is the funniest preview ever stefoid. Try to lighten up next time Warwick:p
TheBrownDog
10 Jun 2008, 20:27
Feel sorry for the poor bastard scheduled to preview next week's game, this is a tough act to follow.
Gabbatoir
10 Jun 2008, 20:29
When I saw the words AFL Round 12 Western Bulldogs V Brisbane Lions Official Thread, that was definitely not what I was expecting.
Too much ti - Well done :)
:p
Just like to come in here and say good luck on Saturday, be a fantastic contest against a team I rate and respect highly.
Now I would just like to say to the creator of the preview Warwick, fantastic effort I thought it was classic.
The Flying Belgian
10 Jun 2008, 20:33
Thanks to stefoid for his efforts.
Warwick, do you not have exams on ATM? If so, that's quality use of swatvac! (Ash looks a bit like Quasimodo/Gladstone Small in one pic)
Grimreepah
10 Jun 2008, 20:33
Haha. Well worth the wait.:thumbsu:
Gabbatoir
10 Jun 2008, 20:35
Someone make a link to this on the main board?
Folks out there could do with a good laugh.
Warwick
10 Jun 2008, 20:37
Warwick, do you not have exams on ATM? If so, that's quality use of swatvac! (Ash looks a bit like Quasimodo/Gladstone Small in one pic)
No exams for me this year!
It was mucking around on that program you provided a link to for the jumper comp, or analysing the stats for my honours project.
Hard decision.
TheBrownDog
10 Jun 2008, 20:41
No exams for me this year!
I imagine applying dencorub onto 80 year old men is punishment enough.
Feel sorry for the poor bastard scheduled to preview next week's game, this is a tough act to follow.
I don’t know about that. Vader and Beatnik doing the previews next week, 2 of the very best in the business.
Thanks to stefoid for his efforts.Yeah we had some issues this week and he had to write his with very late notice. Much appreciated. :thumbsu:
Cousin Jed
10 Jun 2008, 21:09
(Ash looks a bit like Quasimodo/Gladstone Small in one pic)
Troy "Quasimodo" Selwood more like it. That's the price of having Acuguy riding you hard every week!
http://img397.imageshack.us/img397/7439/bulldogsusualsuspectsoe7.png
Thanks previewers and you always were a Dads Army fan Warwick:thumbsu:. Well done.
That was a great read Warwick, very clever and well thought out.
Thank you, and I hope your heart comes out on top.:)
A great preview Warwick, gave me a good chuckle.
I will be heading to this game with great anticipation. Think it is going to be a good game of football, with a lot of free flowing and open, but with some tough in and under contest. I expect the bulldogs to win by 2 or 3 goals but hopefully we can push them the whole way.
Wayde Petersen
10 Jun 2008, 22:03
Thanks for the preview Warwick, concise and funny, great stuff.
BTW, I'm going to the game also (my first for the year, because I was in the USA for most of the season on a holiday:D), but this time, I'll be flying solo (I usually have someone to go with, but not this week, which is a pity, because it should be a good game), so where do all the Lions fans on here meet up before the game?.
I have a general concession membership, so I'll probably end up sitting where our spot is (I can't remember exactly where it is, but it should be with my membership stuff).
I'll wear a Navy blue Washington Nationals hat (with a curly W), so I can be spotted easy just incase.
With Bradshaw out, I would have to favour the Bulldogs to beat us by 13 points, because their form has been great, whilst last week's game for us against Fremantle was pretty average.
Hope to see you there.
I think we may have an old fashioned shoot out if the weather is fine!
Cousin Jed
10 Jun 2008, 22:25
Anyone want to bet one of these pictures ends up in a Herald Sun article sometime soon?
blynd_freddie
10 Jun 2008, 22:36
An absolute classic BiGFooty thread Wazza. :thumbsu:
No Opening joke? – I’m rolling on the floor picturing DC contemplating if he should point out… :D
Ahh Warwick the memories come flooding back, I recall in the late 80’s asking Bjork to come to the drive-in with me to see John Henry Timmis IV’s 5,220 minute film called “The Cure for Insomnia”. What a masterful 87-hour epic. Jeez those Icelandic’s know how to make use of those 24 hour long winter nights.
Just a little disappointed you didn’t throw in the - separated at birth - good Aker, bad Aker twins.
http://www.toysontime.com.au/images/Aka.jpg http://www.sanza.co.uk/apps/shop/pics/4656.jpg
... then again on reflection, I think you actually got it just right. I loved it!! :D
Brilliant preview Warwick :D.. Hilarious !!
I am hoping Leigh rested Drummond/Roe/McGrath so he could get them back for Dogs. With these 3 back, will tip Lions by 2 goals.
Dogs lately seem to be having some close games, labouring through but doing enough to win the game. Hoping for one of those days so we could take advantage of it. If we play anything like what we did against fremantle then its byebye top 4.
brisbanelioness
11 Jun 2008, 00:59
Warwick, that's awesome. Love your work!:thumbsu:
Love the Vidman Rat Pack pic :thumbsu:
Cara_Cougar #16
11 Jun 2008, 09:05
Great previews guys :thumbsu:
Who's going to the game on Saturday?
awesome_assassin
11 Jun 2008, 10:15
Great preview, big:thumbsu: to everybody involved.
Damn Warwick....thats some A- Grade quality posting, i'm still laughing:D
The bar has been raised....can the rest of us live up to these high expectations.
MickRicho
11 Jun 2008, 10:29
HaHa.. that is GOLD Warwick, well done!
Good luck guys
... Doggies by a couple
lionbear
11 Jun 2008, 10:54
Warwick that preview was pure gold:thumbsu::thumbsu::thumbsu:
I think this will be a great test for us. I think to be a real finals contender this is the sought of match we really need to show what we are made of. Top 4 on the G. I am really looking forward to it.
With a preview like that, we can't be beaten!:D
LIONOFZION
11 Jun 2008, 12:01
Thanks Warwick - that is the best preview I've never read - a picture does tell a thousand words - the heads match the bodies' postures superbly :thumbsu:
murphy2bedabest
11 Jun 2008, 12:10
AFL Premiership Round 12
http://home.iprimus.com.au/jpk/122008/Title.GIF
http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/3053/dogskc3.png ------ V ------http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/899/lionsyr5.png
________________________________________________________
Saturday 14 June 2008
MCG (http://www.austadiums.com/stadiums/stadiums.php?id=120) 2:10:00pm (Local Time) Melbourne Forecast (http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDV10450.shtml)
TV (ALL LIVE UNLESS STATED)
Qld: Channel 10
Vic: Channel 10 (Delayed)
SA: Channel 10
WA: Channel 10
TAS: Channel 10
NT: Channel 10
NSW/ACT: Channel 10
RADIO
[/[B]B]Vic: ABC, MMM, 3AW.
Qld: ABC, MMM, BIMA.
SA: 5AA, ABC, MMM.
WA: ABC, BIMA, 6PR.
NSW/ACT:ABC
Tas: ABC.
NT: ABC BIMA.
Ladder:
http://home.iprimus.com.au/jpk/122008/Ladder.GIF
Last 6 Rounds:
http://home.iprimus.com.au/jpk/122008/L5L.GIF
Win-Loss Sequences:
http://home.iprimus.com.au/jpk/122008/SWL.GIF
Recent history:
http://home.iprimus.com.au/jpk/122008/Last10.GIF
Great thread guys and great work
just one thing is the MMM team in Melb JB Garry Lyon BT ect the same team that will be on in brisbane? or will it be the Brisbane team?
Should be a great game cant wait to see the two midfields go head to head.
Go Dogs
Grimreepah
11 Jun 2008, 12:38
There are people calling for Proud to be included, but I'm not sure how he fits into the team. If Drummond, Roe, McGrath are all fit then they would take the place of Bradshaw, Harding and Hawksley. Proud is not going to replace Selwood because they play completely different roles, so who's spot does he take?
P-MONEY
11 Jun 2008, 12:51
This has to be the best preview ever!!!
Love your work..
P.S Prince = Brian Lake :thumbsu: Brilliant..
Dogs by hopefully 10-15
Gabbatoir
11 Jun 2008, 13:35
I saw this article, wasn't sure if it was new thread worthy, pretty interesting though.
Link (http://merimbula.yourguide.com.au/news/local/sport/general/sydney-top-dog/787079.aspx)
TheBrownDog
11 Jun 2008, 13:59
I saw this article, wasn't sure if it was new thread worthy, pretty interesting though.
Link (http://merimbula.yourguide.com.au/news/local/sport/general/sydney-top-dog/787079.aspx)
Not really, these stats are meaningless.
We dont really have that many supporters. They would have just polled 100 people in Queensland and asked them what their AFL team was, 90 percent of them probably said Brisbane even though they wouldnt even know who Jonathan Brown was.
Then the polling company multiplies the numnber to get a figure representative of the Queensland population, and wha-la... inaccurate stats.
Not really, these stats are meaningless.
We dont really have that many supporters. They would have just polled 100 people in Queensland and asked them what their AFL team was, 90 percent of them probably said Brisbane even though they wouldnt even know who Jonathan Brown was.
Then the polling company multiplies the numnber to get a figure representative of the Queensland population, and wha-la... inaccurate stats.
Yeah it's akin to polling 100 prison inmates, discovering 10 are there for murder, and emblazoning the front of the Herald Sun with "10% of the population have killed someone!!"
Or, as Homer Simson once said, "Oh Kent, you can use stats to prove anything. 42% of people know that."
PS - on the two previews, I am hoping that the battle of "our" preview versus "their" preview mirrors the on field result on Sat. If it does, Warwick can claim it was all his doing. :)
Sherminator.
11 Jun 2008, 14:25
Legendary preview!
Warwick
11 Jun 2008, 14:35
Not a lot has been said about it being Jono Brown's 150th.
Has to be one of the best 150 game careers so far.
lionbear
11 Jun 2008, 14:38
Not a lot has been said about it being Jono Brown's 150th.
Has to be one of the best 150 game careers so far.
3 Premierships, All Australian, Best & Fairest & Coleman Medal.
You have to love the man:cool:
BigCat2
11 Jun 2008, 16:03
There are people calling for Proud to be included, but I'm not sure how he fits into the team. If Drummond, Roe, McGrath are all fit then they would take the place of Bradshaw, Harding and Hawksley. Proud is not going to replace Selwood because they play completely different roles, so who's spot does he take?
OUT: Bradshaw, Copeland, Hawksley, Harding
IN: Roe, Drummond, McGrath, Proud
Roe for Bradshaw is replacing a tall with a tall. Clark goes up forward (and Leuenberger keeps his spot as second ruckman).
Proud comes in for the injured harding. Similar burst type midfielders at this stage, and Proud has the form as well in the twos.
As great a clubman as Bushy is, he was brought in to cover for injuries to defenders. If both Drummond and McGrath return then he'll probably be squeezed out. Hawksley is likely to make way also.
boydsno1
11 Jun 2008, 18:02
top opening posts. well done with that. good luck on the weekend guys hope for a good game but for a doggies win hopefully.
Cousin Jed
11 Jun 2008, 18:16
I would imagine Rocket Eade will be imploring his players to play on at every opportunity, that is his usual tactic against us (Don't watch them enough to say if that is what they do every week)
Hopefully we can hold them up on the mark.
royboy2
11 Jun 2008, 18:53
Lethal was on SEN tonight and said Roe, McGrath and Drummo were all expected to be available for Saturday. He said Bradshaw's string was very minor, definately not ruled out for this week and they will decide after training tomorrow
Grimreepah
11 Jun 2008, 19:17
From what I've seen most Dogs supporters are fairly confident of winning this one.
Lethal was on SEN tonight and said Roe, McGrath and Drummo were all expected to be available for Saturday. He said Bradshaw's string was very minor, definately not ruled out for this week and they will decide after training tomorrow
Wow that is great news.
BigCat2
11 Jun 2008, 19:48
B1 and B2 is still going to be key, so it'll be great if Bradshaw can come up. Might just prove too much for Lake and Williams. Having this also means that if Charman or Clark bob up down forward then they could cause headaches.
Also our conversion has been terrible of late. It's only going to be worse without Bradshaw.
If Bradshaw is selected to play, then I'd have Clark as back up ruck/utility, and Leuenberger gets a rest. We won't actually be playing shorter because one inclusion (Roe) is a tall. That's the beauty of athletic tall players (Roe, Clark) who can play multiple roles. We don't actually lose much run either.
Proud comes in for the injured Harding.
B Drummond Merrett Roe
HB Macdonald Patfull McGrath
C Corrie Adcock Notting
HF Sherman Brown Brennan
F Johnstone Bradshaw Hooper
R Charman Black Power
IC Clark Rischitelli Selwood Proud
IN: Drummond, Roe, McGrath, Proud
OUT: Leuenberger, Harding, Hawksley, Copeland
Outside of Lappin, I don't actually think we can field a better team than that. Very strong side. :thumbsu:
Lethal was on SEN tonight and said Roe, McGrath and Drummo were all expected to be available for Saturday. He said Bradshaw's string was very minor, definately not ruled out for this week and they will decide after training tomorrow
Please play, be like a shinning light to the end of my week.
Outside of Lappin, I don't actually think we can field a better team than that. Very strong side. :thumbsu:
IMO, Begley was there in our best side. Not sure if he'll do the tagging role as Ash McGrath's been a revelation down back.
BigCat2
11 Jun 2008, 20:25
IMO, Begley was there in our best side. Not sure if he'll do the tagging role as Ash McGrath's been a revelation down back.
At the start of the season I had Begley playing HBF in my starting 18. I think Begley is probably at the head of a pack of the likes of Stiller, Selwood and Copeland. I'd say Selwood has got Begley's role after he's been injured.
At the start of the season I had Begley playing HBF in my starting 18. I think Begley is probably at the head of a pack of the likes of Stiller, Selwood and Copeland. I'd say Selwood has got Begley's role after he's been injured.
Your squad is pretty good, I reckon Begley has better endurance than Proud over 4 quarters at the moment.
Your squad is pretty good, I reckon Begley has better endurance than Proud over 4 quarters at the moment.
Not at the moment, Begs is injured!
I am hoping Braddles was taken off and complained of a tight hammy, he probably really needed a week off anyway, if he is fit to play he will be better for less game time last week. I love the idea of Braddles and Brown at the G, plenty of room for them to move.
Grimreepah
11 Jun 2008, 22:12
OUT: Bradshaw, Copeland, Hawksley, Harding
IN: Roe, Drummond, McGrath, Proud
Roe for Bradshaw is replacing a tall with a tall. Clark goes up forward (and Leuenberger keeps his spot as second ruckman).
Proud comes in for the injured harding. Similar burst type midfielders at this stage, and Proud has the form as well in the twos.
As great a clubman as Bushy is, he was brought in to cover for injuries to defenders. If both Drummond and McGrath return then he'll probably be squeezed out. Hawksley is likely to make way also.
Yeah, forgot about Copeland. I'd be happy with those changes, and if Bradshaw is fit, then I agree about leaving out Leuenberger.
With that lineup I reckon we're a 50/50 chance.
Not at the moment, Begs is injured!
Very smart, Proudy-guy. Hope your one-eyed devotion pays off and he has a good game this weekend.
else we will start how not to idolize proud thread and post all your comments in there..
stefoid
11 Jun 2008, 23:07
Bloody hell. If Id known you were going to do that I would have put more than 5 minutes into mine.
well done!
blackpowerlappin
11 Jun 2008, 23:42
awesome work Warwick- had me is stitches
Great OP guys, cheers
If Roe, Drummond and McGrath come good, we're a good chance against the dogs. I was worried about their pace and strength, especially forward of the ball.
If we play McGrath on Aker, send Patfull/Roe to Hahn/Welsh and JMac to Johnson, with Drummond spare man, I reckon we match up pretty well.
It's just a case then of winning in the midfield enough to get it forward. It's a tough ask but if we see our senior boys keep up their output, I think our young guys can hold their own too. Big game for Shermo, Corrie, Hooper, Brennan etc.
shaolinmastah
12 Jun 2008, 00:26
lol that match preview was entertaining as hell!! Should be a good game looking forward to it, really happy Murphy is back he should make a huge difference I expect us to win hopefully.
blynd_freddie
12 Jun 2008, 00:58
Bloody hell. If Id known you were going to do that I would have put more than 5 minutes into mine.
well done!
You’re one up on several other clubs Stefoid, I for one appreciate your participation – credit where credit is due. :thumbsu:
theburst
12 Jun 2008, 01:58
Are you guys surprised at the Bulldogs $1.44 - Lions $2.80 odds? I'd thought they'd be closer, though Leigh would preferably want the severe underdog tag.
If Bradshaw, Drummond, McGrath and Roe are all in, you can expect the Lions odds to fall a bit more.
Are you guys surprised at the Bulldogs $1.44 - Lions $2.80 odds? I'd thought they'd be closer, though Leigh would preferably want the severe underdog tag.
I think that's about right. I'd have us at even money if the game was held up here but down in Melbourne, even with our good MCG record (albeit from a fairly small sample size), the Dogs have to be solid favourites.
As mpal says, if we're closer to full strength then the odds might shorten. $2.80 is juicy but I'd prefer to wait to see the teams named before making a donation to the tab.
stefoid
12 Jun 2008, 12:45
Doggies fans will be looking forward to seeing Tom Williams (queenslander) compete against Brown.
I think you might also see Morris on Bradshaw, even if Lake is playing - Eade might play Lake on your third tall where he can peel off and help out the other two. He is very good at the third man up, contested defensive mark type of game.
If Morris goes to Bradshaw then expect to see Braddles spend more time at home in the square with the ball being kicked in long and direct. I would assume Williams will go to Brown and Lake to Bradshaw, Wight or Hargreave will get Clark if we play 3 talls forward
the Dogs Bollocks
12 Jun 2008, 17:43
From an ex-Fitzroy fan good luck, but l think we will get over the line in a close one.
Loved the photo's great efffort.
BRISBANE
B: Josh Drummond, Daniel Merrett, Joel Patfull
HB: Jared Brennan, Joel Macdonald, Troy Selwood
C: Anthony Corrie, Simon Black, Tim Notting
HF: Michael Rischitelli, Jonathan Brown, Justin Sherman
F: Rhan Hooper, Mitch Clark, Travis Johnstone
Foll: Jamie Charman, Luke Power, Jed Adcock
Int: Matthew Leuenberger, Ashley McGrath, Cheynee Stiller, Jason Roe
Emergencies: Albert Proud, James Polkinghorne, Robert Copeland
In: Josh Drummond, Ashley McGrath, Cheynee Stiller, Jason Roe
Out: James Hawksley (omit), Robert Copeland (omit), Daniel Bradshaw (hamstring), Scott Harding (knee)
notting18
12 Jun 2008, 18:31
Quick, someone put acuguy on suicide watch!!!
Roe, McGrath and Drummond are very important ins for us though! With Stiller in for McGrath, maybe Ash will be given a role up forward to help cover the loss of Bradshaw. Stiller is much more a running backman than Proud. Hopefully Stiller makes the most of this opportunity.
TheBrownDog
12 Jun 2008, 18:31
Well thats it... no Bradshaw. Clark will go forward and Leuey will be second ruckman.
The experience of Stiller gives him the nod over Proud for Harding's spot.
McGrath, Drummond and Roe straight back into the backline... love that. :thumbsu:
Homer Jnr
12 Jun 2008, 18:35
No Bradshaw, so we drop Copeland too who has played as a marking forward...
Hopefully the plan works.
Very glad to have Drummond, McGrath and Roe back in though, that tightens the defence. Resting ruckman will hopefully play forward.
Acuguy, I hear you, I'll grab my crappy guitar and we'll go sit out the front of the gabba singing 'koombayah'. You bring the firewood.
campbell
12 Jun 2008, 18:38
Copelands chase on Palmer and saving a goal at a crucial time means squat I see.
Stiff I tells ya.
WESTERN BULLDOGS v BRISBANE LIONS
Saturday, 2:10pm AEST, MCG
WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: Morris, Lake, Hargrave
HB: Addison, Williams, Gilbee
C: Giansiracusa, Boyd, Cross
HF: Murphy, Hahn, Johnson
F: Akermanis, Minson, Welsh
FOLL: Hudson, Cooney, Griffen
I/C: Ray, Eagleton, Everitt, Ward
EMG: Hill, Harbrow, Street
IN: Murphy
OUT: Tiller
Lake made the cut.
charles202
12 Jun 2008, 18:39
Ive got to say im a little surprised by the Stiller selection, hopefully he can get a run of games under his belt, does anyone think that he could be playing for his future at the club?
happy with those ins, if there are question marks over prouds fitness then the dogs at the g may not be a great comeback game for him
TheBrownDog
12 Jun 2008, 18:44
happy with those ins, if there are question marks over prouds fitness then the dogs at the g may not be a great comeback game for him
Good call.
Same reason he was dropped for round 1 at Subi then brought in against the Pies at home I reckon.
Until he gets his fitness up, Proud's nuggetyness (I just invented a word) may be more useful against the more physical, contested teams. Wouldn't surprise me to see him play against the Crows next week.
charles202
12 Jun 2008, 18:50
Dont know about the new word BD, but suddenly i feel like chicken.
notting18
12 Jun 2008, 18:51
does anyone think that he could be playing for his future at the club?
I think thats a little early. Stiller has been a solid contributor for the last few years and obviously the coaching staff see something in him as he was given a go more than others in that time. IMO, Stiller has enough runs on the board to mean he is a definite to keep his spot next year regardless of form in the last 14 games;)
Everyone wants to see Proud playing in the Ones at some stage, but Stiller is a good "in" against the Bullies. I think he could match up well with a number of their runners.
Great pictures Warrick. Unfortunately I have to agree that without B2, 19 points in arrears is probably going to be right.
But anyway, Go LIONS
Bradshaw out obv a bitter pill but that aside it's a damn good team and only two or three players off full strength.:thumbsu:
Lions can still certainly give the dogs a shake.
I was at the Saints/Dogs game last week, and though the dogs were good the Saints had many chances to develop a big lead in the first quarter and just kicked badly. Aker had a day out and the Saints choked as they have been a lot, but the signs are there, the dogs ARE beatable.
Coons17
12 Jun 2008, 18:59
Surprised to see McGrath, Roe and Drummond all in the team, weather they all play is another thing.
Bradshaw is a huge out for you boys and with the return of Robert Murphy the Dogs look a little to potent for your boys, however i expect it to go down to the wire, couple questions for you lions supporters.
- Who will tag Cooney?
- Who gets the job on Akermanis?
- Who's mid-field is better in your opinion?
Gabbatoir
12 Jun 2008, 19:00
Surprised to see McGrath, Roe and Drummond all in the team, weather they all play is another thing.
Bradshaw is a huge out for you boys and with the return of Robert Murphy the Dogs look a little to potent for your boys, however i expect it to go down to the wire, couple questions for you lions supporters.
- Who will tag Cooney?
- Who gets the job on Akermanis?
- Who's mid-field is better in your opinion?
I thought Warwick answered most of those in the preview?
campbell
12 Jun 2008, 19:02
Surprised to see McGrath, Roe and Drummond all in the team, weather they all play is another thing.
Bradshaw is a huge out for you boys and with the return of Robert Murphy the Dogs look a little to potent for your boys, however i expect it to go down to the wire, couple questions for you lions supporters.
- Who will tag Cooney?
- Who gets the job on Akermanis?
- Who's mid-field is better in your opinion?
Bushy would have been good, seeing though he did the job on Farmer last week. Who in the replacements the would get the job?
notting18
12 Jun 2008, 19:05
Bushy would have been good, seeing though he did the job on Farmer last week. Who in the replacements the would get the job?
Possibly either of McGrath or Drummond, 2 of the three best 22 backmen included.
Cousin Jed
12 Jun 2008, 19:06
Charman to spend a fair chunk of time up forward I reckon
Bradshaw is a huge out for you boys and with the return of Robert Murphy the Dogs look a little to potent for your boys,
This is the interesting thing... the dogs forward line is a small forward line, obviously, and that was SUPPOSED to be to their detriment, however clearly it is not. IMO the Lions backline will match up well with it. Buddy Franklin was unstoppable against us, but one big thing he had in his favour was his height. Our backline, especially Merret, are QUICK over 20-30m. Your guys won't get a heap of contested marks because they are not really big, your guys rely on pace and leading - those things the Lions backline can keep up with, making it, IMO, an even contest inside your 50m.
Will be a fascinating game.
TheBrownDog
12 Jun 2008, 19:10
Murphy is definately the danger man.
Damn him and his long penetrating kicks that hit targets.
Would be close to the best lead-up CHF in the league.
lionbear
12 Jun 2008, 19:30
Well thats it... no Bradshaw. Clark will go forward and Leuey will be second ruckman.
The experience of Stiller gives him the nod over Proud for Harding's spot.
McGrath, Drummond and Roe straight back into the backline... love that. :thumbsu:
Hopefully Brown can have a big 150th and cover the extra workload. Think we are still right in this. Hopefully Clark can kick two or three to help Brown out.
Until he gets his fitness up, Proud's nuggetyness (I just invented a word) may be more useful against the more physical, contested teams. Wouldn't surprise me to see him play against the Crows next week.
I know where you are coming from with this point, but our ability to win the contested footy has improved dramatically this year.
We now have a pretty big and strong group of midfielders.
Some really good in's with Roe, Drummond and McGrath back in the team to help negate the Bulldogs tricky forward line.
Good to see Stiller get a go this week. Hopefully he can find some space on the wings and create some run and attck into the forward line.
Disappointed to see Bradshaw out, but it could be a good thing for him to have a break.
blynd_freddie
12 Jun 2008, 19:59
I also fall into the trap of thinking with my heart, so for what it's worth I'll try using the head.
To me this squad still reads like a bloody good team on paper, yes subtract the talent of Bradshaw from our current 4 wins in a row but don’t forget to add the 12 months experience to last years 5 wins in a row squad and then carry the one consistent, confidence.
Using this simple, yet effective formula I arrived at a Lions win by 17pts. I know this will be 100% correct as when I cross checked this margin with a calculated guess I came up with the same result. :thumbsu:
Old Den
12 Jun 2008, 19:59
When there is good depth and not many injuries,someone(s)is usually stiff
Nice problem to have(please ignore the oxymoron)
Ive got to say im a little surprised by the Stiller selection, hopefully he can get a run of games under his belt, does anyone think that he could be playing for his future at the club?
Stiller is one of the very good kicks in our lineup. I would rate his vision and spotting players in the crowd to be close to TJ's level. No good delisting him. He's a keeper.
chopperduck
12 Jun 2008, 20:30
looks like the team is right to me. all backs back in as expected, and clark to play FF taking up bradshaws post, the twin towers continue. luey back in the ruck with charmo, hopefully they can both do well around the ground and use their height as a nice marking option over the smaller dogs.
the only question was proud or not, and i think stiller is the better option v the dogs. much more suited i think, an might open the door up to a few extra rotations from the back if needed.
MCG + running opposition = prouds enemy
i think brown will be leading up the ground a lot more and i think clark could capitalize being left one out with a doggie defender. he is good enough to take some good grabs.
black_hart
12 Jun 2008, 20:40
- Who will tag Cooney?
Expect him to be a victim of Shermanation
bears2lions
12 Jun 2008, 20:49
Ive got to say im a little surprised by the Stiller selection, hopefully he can get a run of games under his belt, does anyone think that he could be playing for his future at the club?
He was pretty good with Suncoast last Sunday morning!
I still consider him to be part of the rat pack young guns.
Okay i am absolutely pumped for this clash, i see it as a win win for the Lions, realistically if we lose than we know there is more work to do to make the finals and it gives our players extra motivation to improve, if we win then that is a bonus and it proves we are top 4 contenders.
First of all it is vital for our mids to shut down Cross, look for Hooper and Corrie to really work him over in the zone on kick outs, most clubs leave Cross thinking he won't hurt you by foot, what often happens is he gets it from the kick in, feeds it off and then picks the next one up in the centre (his aerobic capacity is brilliant. We have to be disciplined at the contest and not get sucked in, the bullies inside players Boyd, Cross and Cooney will dish the ball out into space so the runners on the edge of the contest can run onto the pill.
Secondly the bullies honour leads all over the ground better than anyone, they will often hit up a short lead at half forward, midfield pressure and tight defending/spoiling on the lead will result in turnovers around the bulldogs chf area.
As TBD stated Murphy is the danger man, he kicks goals and sets them up, he must be blanketed even to the point of playing a loose man at chb to chop off his leads.
Hooper and Corrie are going to be huge on Saturday, the dogs trust their skills and if these blokes chase and tackle and other follow suit we may be able to cause skill errors.
Charman is the most vital player for us on the ground on Saturday, if he can get first hand on the ball and provide linkage around the ground then we will go along way to winning. He must get 15-20 touches.
This is going to sound crazy but i don't think we will miss Braddles as much as we think because i think Clark's confidence is at an all time high and i feel if he gets enough opportunity and kicks straight then we might get half a dozen goals. Clark is very good at ground level and will still be in the play when the ball is spilt deep in our forward line.
Now to our ins
McGrath, Roe and Drummond bring skill poise and dash to our backline, i dare say Lethal really backed his squad to beat Freo without these boys and he has put them in cotton wool for this week.
Stiller is a good in, i really hope to see him play on the wing and push forward to kick goals, i think he is most valuable in this role. I don't see him as a backman or a good run with footballer, his best football is based around smart positional play and long endurance running, he is not an explosive athlete, more in the mould of a Black.
The Berger is the interesting one for me, personally i would have thought if Braddles played then the Berger would have missed. He may only have limited game time but he must hurt the opposition when he is on, this can be done by clever tapwork, kicking goals or really running and getting quality possesions.
All in all i think we will win and Browny and Clark may get half a dozen each
Lions by 17 points