AJ Watch

[Doctor]

I don't think AJ will ever make it back unfortunately and this is a tragedy.

A tragedy is innocent people losing their lives. If AJ doesn't play seniors again it'll be disappointing for him but he's a Premiership player and has been able to overcome years of knee reconstructions and infections to get back to playing footy. I think that's an incredible outcome.

[graemed]

There was a moment last week against the Thunder when he was involved in a marking contest and fell awkwardly. I held my breath expecting the worst. He was up immediately, gathering possession and sprinting away and setting up a play further down the ground.
It was exhilarating and I know its not much but to me it was significant.
I truly believe that he may be back to a level that will see him playing senior footy again. Perhaps not this year but with a full pre-season and the confidence gained by staying injury free... who knows.

[RichardLong]

He just needs a solid pre-season behind him.

[707]

I doubt seniors was ever on the cards this year. Suspect the plan was games now to gain touch and confidence and then a full pre-season to set him up for 2018, then let form take its course.

Good to hear Alex is looking more free in his movement, with our finals looking to go deep, he will get a good lead into next year at a more intense pace.

[RichardLong]

AJ.jpg

It's got to warm the heart reading this!!!
I love this story, I love everything it stands for and I love that he's getting better and better with each game back.

[stevoswan]

I just posted this on the NEAFL vs Redlands thread but it's probably more appropriate here......I notice with Alex's stats that he didn't lay a tackle. While I can understand his reluctance to do the real vigorous stuff, has he tackled at all since his return? He will have to one day......

[barry]

I'd bring him in against the crows if Newman doesn't get up.

[stevoswan]

I agree with those who say he's made it back just by playing but if you believe he himself will leave the game satisfied having not played seniors again (if that transpires), I think you would be wrong......and I won't be satisfied either but I will be satisfied that he absolutely gave it his best shot.

[Doctor]

I'd bring him in against the crows if Newman doesn't get up.

Fair enough. I wouldn't.

[mcs]

I'd bring him in against the crows if Newman doesn't get up.

He is nowhere near ready for Seniors again - 2018 is the clear target. Some promising numbers in the ressies on the weekend though - but again in a game that sounds like it was a glorified parade at times.

[barry]

Come on guys. He's done enough. 20+ possessions in the twos. Top 10.
Imagine how it would lift the team!

[mcs]

Come on guys. He's done enough. 20+ possessions in the twos. Top 10.
Imagine how it would lift the team!

Stats rarely tell the whole story Barry...

[Thunder Shaker]

Perhaps bring AJ in for round 23 against Carlton while we rest someone like Rampe?

[Nico]

Perhaps bring AJ in for round 23 against Carlton while we rest someone like Rampe?

No one will be rested in R23. We have a bye the week after.

[barry]

Brett deludio had a 20 possy game in the giants 2's, came in and is averaging about 7 in the seniors... But he has lift the team 3 fold.