Gumby pick 55

basashi

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They arent going to suspend anybody, they can't prove that anybody at Essendon took any banned substances. All the AFL knew is that Hirdy and the boys were being gung ho with their injections program but if they had of had any evidence of doping Hird would of copped a lifetime ban to save the image of the game and ASADA would have moved by now. Hird and the club fought it so hard because they knew that nobody could prove that there was any doping happening. ASADA will be hoping more evidence comes to light and that's why they won't say that they won't charge a player.


Anyway re. Gumbleton, all I can think is that Zac Clarke has a much nicer highlight reel and will probably not be on our list after next year if Pav and Sandi play on and maybe even if they don't. I really don't see Gumby as being better than Kep or Clarke, I hope I'm completely wrong though.


I don't agree with your assessment.

The AFL is an integrity free zone and they bent over backwards to give the most minimal, inappropriate penalties possible.

ASADA is a different issue. The Essendon situation provides a level of evidence not inconsistent with cases were good penalties have been applied.
 

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Jezzitizle

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I don't agree with your assessment.

The AFL is an integrity free zone and they bent over backwards to give the most minimal, inappropriate penalties possible.

ASADA is a different issue. The Essendon situation provides a level of evidence not inconsistent with cases were good penalties have been applied.

Then what exactly are ASADA waiting for? If they had solid evidence that Essendon players were doping why have they failed to act? As far as I am aware they were able to prove Essendon bought some substances which were illegal because they weren't specifically approved for human use but they were unable to prove what was actually given to players.. or is that wrong?
 

Tayl0r

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Then what exactly are ASADA waiting for? If they had solid evidence that Essendon players were doping why have they failed to act? As far as I am aware they were able to prove Essendon bought some substances which were illegal because they weren't specifically approved for human use but they were unable to prove what was actually given to players.. or is that wrong?
The full report will come out around Christmas time. Any sanctions will follow on from that.
 

theGav56

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Happy to have him. Big question for me is, does this see the end of Keplar "the accidental hero" Bradley. Wonder if there's room for them both on our list. I wouldn't be surprised to see him delisted, as unsentimental as it'd seem.
Could have traded Keps for Gumby. Former #5 draft pick for former #2.

Got to feel bad for the Bombers those 2 selections both dudding out.
 

Wee Jessies

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Could have traded Keps for Gumby. Former #5 draft pick for former #2.

Got to feel bad for the Bombers those 2 selections both dudding out.
I would think they could console themselves with getting Lloyd and Lucas. Don't think Essendon supporters should be too disappointed if Gumby helps us to a flag.
 

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PapaJ

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Don't be surprised if Kepler is played down back going forward. That's where the bombers were trying to groom him to take over from Fletcher, both have similar frames - Gangly. Gives us another option in the backline depth other than Silvagni.
Interesting idea, with only one problem, he sucks as a backman.

One the reasons he underachieved so badly at Essendon was for the very reason you described, he was being 'groomed' out of position.
 

ImperialPurple

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Feeling very relieved this went though today. Would have hated to have the uncertainty of the psd hanging over everyone involved. I remember an interview with Gumby before he played his first game against Freo at subi. He said how weird and hard it was going to be cos he had grown up supporting Freo. So like Jono Griffin - he's 'come home' and just to add the romantic twist to it... Make his childhood dream come true. ;) :hearts:
 

yakka man

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Feeling very relieved this went though today. Would have hated to have the uncertainty of the psd hanging over everyone involved. I remember an interview with Gumby before he played his first game against Freo at subi. He said how weird and hard it was going to be cos he had grown up supporting Freo. So like Jono Griffin - he's 'come home' and just to add the romantic twist to it... Make big childhood dream come true. ;) :hearts:

Relieved is certainly the word I would use. We needed him, but he just wasn't worth pick 37. Very happy that the club stood firm. It's far better to get him on the list now than waiting 5 or so weeks for the PSD.
 

scon

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If his application and subsequent career best form replicate what transpired with The Big Griff after returning home,we'll have snookered ourselves a Coleman-medallist-defence-wrecking-ball.
Must compliment Lloyd and Bond for their perfect assessment of value in a complex terrain and the confidence and nerves to play hard-nosed poker to the end;not simply in this trade but for several seasons now.They can take enormous pride and credit for where we're at as a club and former captain Bond is reaching club legend status;something many may have to acknowledge.
 

jedi mind tricks

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Relieved is certainly the word I would use. We needed him, but he just wasn't worth pick 37. Very happy that the club stood firm. It's far better to get him on the list now than waiting 5 or so weeks for the PSD.
And the fact he can be at pre season training from the very start. Rookies and PSD picks only train with their club for a few weeks until Christmas.
 

WAnchor

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I think some posters are falling into the sentimentality trap with Kepler. His knee was operated in in late April. I would be surprised if he is ready for selection at the start of the H & A season. He will be 28 in a couple of weeks and his knees seemed dodgy before his injury - despite the fact that he could evade speeding bullets.

Our list spots are so valuable that having him, Griffin and Morabito all waiting to be match fit will put strain on our list from the start of the season.

In 2013 he played 5 games and given our key forward shortage it would have been hoped that he would be a suitable answer. He averaged 10 disposals and 2.6 marks and 1 and a 1/2 goals a game. Whilst he did get 3 goals in his one full game without Pav, I am not convinced that he is our best backup solution. Tabs, in his rookie season, played 4 games and averaged 7 possessions and 2.8 marks. Further, Keps averaged one tackle, Tabs 2.2. With another preseason, he may be the more useful player. From an economical perspective, a draft player would probably be a cheaper option.

I have loved watching Keps over the years but the reality is that we have become a club which is willing to make the hard decisions. Do not be surprised if that in Keps, we have another example.
 

wirra44

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Really looking forward too seeing scotty play for you guys, hopefully he can cement a position in your forward line and stay injury free, a very talented player when up and goin:thumbsu:
 
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