Changes for Round 9 vs. Collingwood

[liz]

You cant kick like walsh does and expect to play AFL level. It would be scary if he had a run out of the backline looking for a target. I think the experiment with him has failed. We could really do with more run from the backline, Is Shaw Out for another week? With Shaw, LRT, AJ and matter out of our backline, it looks vulnerable.

What, based on one kick for goal? I know it was a dreadful kick but seems a bit harsh to dismiss a bloke's career based on a single kick. He's kicked plenty in the reserves and does know what he's doing. We just need to find out whether, given a couple more games than the four he's played to date, he can adapt to the next level up.

[ernie koala]

What, based on one kick for goal? I know it was a dreadful kick but seems a bit harsh to dismiss a bloke's career based on a single kick. He's kicked plenty in the reserves and does know what he's doing. We just need to find out whether, given a couple more games than the four he's played to date, he can adapt to the next level up.

Yeah I agree, his kicking is generally OK.

He contests well, I reckon he looks like he could become a really good player.

He needs to string some games together, and get that feeling of belonging. I think for an overseas player, that's the key.

[dimelb]

He seems to me to have the right attitude. More than I could say for (insert favourite whipping boy).

[Swansongster]

Is there any reason that consistent ressie watchers can identify why Mitchell should not be given a chance? Perhaps off the bench to start with? I understand his body, the step up, too good to risk early etc. arguments but ther are plenty of kids his age running around and getting games.

I have faith in the match committee but just get him out there, I say. I can't see how he would diminish the 22s we have put out on the paddocks so far this year.

I saw him play before the Geelong game and, while he was not the best on ground (which ironically I would have given to Walsh that night, or Chops) he seemed to run out the whole game and showed glimpses of sublime poise and touch.

Give him an extended run of games with a role that keeps him on the fringe of the hard stuff (as opposed to in the middle of it) and let him work up to pace and pressure of the elite level before our crucial August/September (hopefully) commitments.

In: Mitchell, White
Out: Bird, Mummy

[ernie koala]

This game is looking ominous for the Swans.

Changes: In : Lamb Out : Everitt
Give Lamb a full game.
Give Bird a full game.
Rampe to be sub

Mummys last chance...He needs a big game.

If he's carrying an injury, then bring in White to replace him.

[ernie koala]

Is there any reason that consistent ressie watchers can identify why Mitchell should not be given a chance? Perhaps off the bench to start with? I understand his body, the step up, too good to risk early etc. arguments but ther are plenty of kids his age running around and getting games.

I have faith in the match committee but just get him out there, I say. I can't see how he would diminish the 22s we have put out on the paddocks so far this year.

I saw him play before the Geelong game and, while he was not the best on ground (which ironically I would have given to Walsh that night, or Chops) he seemed to run out the whole game and showed glimpses of sublime poise and touch.

Give him an extended run of games with a role that keeps him on the fringe of the hard stuff (as opposed to in the middle of it) and let him work up to pace and pressure of the elite level before our crucial August/September (hopefully) commitments.

In: Mitchell, White
Out: Bird, Mummy

Don't imagine he'll get a game until he's strung at least 2-3 more games together in the 2's.

So after the Bye when we have some relatively soft games would be ideal...IMO.

BTW, doubt Bird will be dropped...with out Shaw he's one of our best taggers...I reckon he'll get a full game, and should.

[Bloodthirsty]

Yeah it's crunch time for Mummy.

I gotta point this article out from the AFL website:

Injuries take heavy toll on struggling clubs - AFL.com.au

Extremely flawed analysis and stupid conclusions re injuries. They say that the Swans have had a 'dream run' with injuries, based entirely on the fact that our top 10 2012 B&F have been relatively unscathed. Obviously they don't understand the concept of a even team. I had to share that, cos I just laughed out loud when I read that. Premiership backline decimated - but, yeah, dream run!

Why do I have a constant feeling of dread, despite us being the reigning premiers? I know things change quickly, but this is ridiculous.

[RogueSwan]

...BTW, doubt Bird will be dropped...with out Shaw he's one of our best taggers...I reckon he'll get a full game, and should.

(C)Hear, (c)hear! Not enough Bird love on this site.
But it does seem that Jude has taken over his role this year, defensive forward who can kick a few goals.

[rojo]

BT probably because for the finals last year we had a settled backline playing very good footy, Goodes, ROK, Bolton, and LRT were playing very good footy, Kennedy, Jets, AJ and Hanners were sparking and McViegh, Jack and Pyke were pretty much on song too. That leaves Reid, Morto, Bird, Parks and Mummy. Just at this point in time there is justification for feeling a little bit nervous!!

[Triple B]

(C)Hear, (c)hear! Not enough Bird love on this site....

Absolutely. A top 10 B&F finish in a premiership year suggests the match committee agree as well.

As a non-flashy, get the job done type of player I understand why opposition fans and media don't pay him his dues, but I sometimes wonder about Sydney fans who don't appreciate what he brings to the table...

[undy]

He seems to me to have the right attitude. More than I could say for John Stevens.

I disagree - I reckon Stevens had the right attitude, he just had the ability to pull a colossal clanger out of thin air.

[liz]

Absolutely. A top 10 B&F finish in a premiership year suggests the match committee agree as well.

As a non-flashy, get the job done type of player I understand why opposition fans and media don't pay him his dues, but I sometimes wonder about Sydney fans who don't appreciate what he brings to the table...

Bird's fitness looks a bit down this year compared to last. And when you're a small to medium sized midfielder without great pace, a drop off in endurance is quite significant in affecting how well you contribute.

[dimelb]

I disagree - I reckon Stevens had the right attitude, he just had the ability to pull a colossal clanger out of thin air.

Oi! I didn't mention John Stevens!

[ernie koala]

Hey boys, get it right......JON Stevens

BTW...No one (other than Cuz) arched the back quite like Stevo.

[Bloodthirsty]

Mattner a chance to play this week, and Shaw is running and returning to full training next week. Good news. If we could get over the line in 1 or 2 of the next 3 matches, we're looking much better after the bye with LRT and Tippett. Morton's forward pressure is great these days, so I think he will be an important player as well. If Mattner can pull up well on Friday then I won't feel as though the gaping hole in our backline is so bad. Just gotta dig deep to pull out a couple of wins as underdogs, classic Swans-style. I think with a couple of personnel issues addressed, it's more about maintaining concentration than anything else.