News

Bombers fly West for NAB Cup opener

Wednesday, 26 October 2011
Staff writers for essendonfc.com.au
Page 1 of 1

Essendon's 2012 NAB Cup campaign will begin in Perth, with the Bombers set to take on Fremantle and West Coast at Patersons Stadium in the opening round of the pre-season tournament.

The AFL announced on Wednesday the fixture for the opening three weeks of the revised 2012 competition, with the first round consisting of each club playing two shortened matches against two other sides.

After reaching the NAB Cup Grand Final in 2011, the Bombers will meet the Dockers and Eagles on Sunday, February 19, with games beginning at 4.45pm.

In a new development for the 2012 NAB Cup, all 18 clubs have had all matches set for the opening three rounds of competition, with rounds two, three and four consisting of full-scale games.

In round two, Essendon will play St Kilda at Wangaratta on Saturday, March 3, starting at 7.00pm. In round three, the Bombers will take on the Sydney Swans at Etihad Stadium on Friday, March 9, beginning at 6.10pm.

All matches across the three rounds (two shortened games and two full games) will count equally for four points and percentage, with the two best-performed teams over the opening three rounds to compete in the NAB Cup Grand Final on Saturday, March 17.

The 16 other clubs will play NAB Cup matches that weekend across March 16-17 in various metropolitan cities across the country.

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Another joke by AFL. What a waste of time.We would be better off with practice matches.Really great for our supporters who wish to see live games. Stan Best

- Stan Best (posted 26/10/2011 9:42:46 AM)

AFL dribble.

- Ralph Ralph (posted 26/10/2011 10:00:14 AM)

Amazing how this happens to us so often. Collingwood, draw GWS in their group! And in the season proper Collingwood, don't even have to travel to Perth, how is this possible?

- stewart mccallum (posted 26/10/2011 10:20:34 AM)

What a useles competition this is now. Who ever plays the GWS or Gold Coast without travelling to Perth is just handed a place in the Grand Final with wins and percentage from beating the easybeats of the AFL. I'll be saving my time & money for the real thing thank you very much. AFL, you are a joke !!!

- Charles Taylor (posted 26/10/2011 10:21:20 AM)

Another opportunity for younger blokes and coaching staff to try/acclimatize to game/travel protocols, and I'm sure the supporters in the West appreciate a chance to see the boys play live in any way, shape or form, right, Nev?

- Kris Bayne (posted 26/10/2011 10:23:48 AM)

Kris thanks for your positive attitude. and yes supporters in the West have an opportunity to watch the red&black run out. I'm looking forward to it. Cheers Gail

- Gail Taylor (posted 26/10/2011 10:48:01 AM)

What a farce. The AFL have just plain lost the plot. Who wants these triangular giggle games ? And no free-to-air until the (ho-hum) grand final. So another month to wait for the football to start.

- alec shiffman (posted 26/10/2011 10:52:06 AM)

Get Leon Davis!! Just thought I'd try and get in first with that ;-)

- Kris Bayne (posted 26/10/2011 10:52:29 AM)

I think that's pretty poor organisation by the AFL, but the upside is that we can get more comfortable playing in Perth and be primed for the season.

- Andrew Zito (posted 26/10/2011 11:21:23 AM)

I don't care where we play or who we play, it will be heaven sent, the season is only just getting cold, and the summer will just add to the suffering, Round ball games, both international,and gasp (soccer) Bored stiff, any Aussie rules is good Aussie rules, and with a full and fit team we just might give the buggers a shake.

- Max Rodwell (posted 26/10/2011 11:38:05 AM)

all nab cup games should be played at Es or MCG

- MARK JONES (posted 26/10/2011 11:52:10 AM)

The AFL love us - not! The AFL love Collingwood. Our record is shocking in Perth but it is another opportunity for our players to get their act together.....

- Victor Tallis (posted 26/10/2011 12:11:05 PM)

and we all know your joking Kris, nice try to bring on some niggling comments

- Mark McLachlan (posted 26/10/2011 12:11:42 PM)

Why dont the AFL just get rid of this pre season stuff and just start the season in Feb that extra 4 weeks to play for premiership points would come some way to making for a fairer home and away season. Still not perfect but closer than we have now.

- Marc Atkins (posted 26/10/2011 12:16:11 PM)

Totally agree Max, good one, why do people always stress out and imagine the "AFL conspiracy theory" when it comes to rostering the only thing they look at is best attendances, best dollars, not clubs. NAB is only practice matches, the only clubs who really try to win are the ones who need the money or know they have no chance of winning flag, the AFL have done us a real favor with us travelling west, WEHO & where do we play in round 1, Hirdy probably requested it

- Mark McLachlan (posted 26/10/2011 12:20:08 PM)

Thanks, TEI, you can go and get treatment now, and welcome back, EI. Bet you read the site daily and regularly. Some variant of the 'Stockholm Syndrome'. Let's call it the 'Moonee Ponds Syndrome' - there is a bit of it about...

- Kris Bayne (posted 26/10/2011 12:22:50 PM)

Not sure what all the fuss is about, footy is footy, and I`ll be watching it in any way, shape or form. I`ll be just glad footy is back, and so are the Bombers.

- Cory Williams (posted 26/10/2011 12:23:50 PM)

It's good to see the afl ain't going to make it any easier for us. Amazing over the last 5 years how hard the draw has been for us considering our ladder positions=AMAZING=VANDETTA!

- Chris Steffen (posted 26/10/2011 12:28:22 PM)

THIS IS GOOD,SO OUR PLAYERS CAN GET USE TO TRAVEL....GO DONS

- Pierre Behnane (posted 26/10/2011 12:33:34 PM)

If the club itself reckons it gets a fair go through the draw - despite this season's clear discrepancies and the consistently uneven fixturing - then why should I or any other fan give a rats? Seems we've lost our ability to stand up for what's right for our footy club and become a politically correct whipping boy for other clubs and the league, post Sheedy. Pathetic Essendon...

- Dennis Green (posted 26/10/2011 12:40:05 PM)

come on people! a very good side don't complain where the game will be played or who they play. Just be happy for the fans in the West to see more Bomber games there.

- mark manginsay (posted 26/10/2011 12:45:25 PM)

Kris, you are not far wrong. Just can't get enough of the place even on holiday!

- Essendon Insider (posted 26/10/2011 1:02:18 PM)

I don't care who we play. It will give our younger group valuable experience.

- Rob Carew (posted 26/10/2011 1:16:31 PM)

I'll be at the match at Wangaratta!!! About time these matches were played in the Regional areas of Victoria. It seems some who live in the city do not appreciate the fact that they can see the players any time they like. It gives those of us who cannot travel to the City a chance to see the players.

- Margaret Livingstone (posted 26/10/2011 1:32:19 PM)

I reckon this isn't a bad opportunity to work on our terrible travelling record!

- Graham Flynn (posted 26/10/2011 1:42:20 PM)

At least hirdy can see how fit we are playing in Perth when it's 40 degree plus!

- Steven Boyle (posted 26/10/2011 1:43:41 PM)

EI, there's acupuncture therapy for that, or an app... Anyhow, keep the articles coming - we're bored!

- Kris Bayne (posted 26/10/2011 1:44:40 PM)

I'm with Kris Bayne. We need to start winning games in the west, and the way to do that is familiarise ourselves with the travel, facilities, surface etc. Nothing to lose by heading over there.

- Luke Smith (posted 26/10/2011 1:53:05 PM)

Well I read in the H-Sun that it was to be held at Etihad. So now hearing that - I just shake my head. Oh well, we can at least now write off the NAB Cup and use it for experimentation. Seeing this, it wont bother me if we lose all four games, as to top it off we play two more finalists in the Saints and Sydney.

- Daisy Graham (posted 26/10/2011 2:00:59 PM)

Collingwood play no finalist from last year , get GWS first up and don't travel to Perth at all in the real season. Eddie has got the AFL in his back pocket. Great to see them loose another GF next year.

- Michael McSwain (posted 26/10/2011 2:41:16 PM)

Nab Cup team 2012 B: Carlisle, Hurley, Heppell HB: Browne, Ryder, Davis C: Ross, Watson, Pick 19 HF: Jetta, Crameri, Zaharakis F: Gumbleton, Steinberg, Monfries R: Bellchambers, Ryan, Hocking Inter: Colyer, C-Dempsey, Lonergan, Winders

- Thomas Faunce (posted 26/10/2011 3:00:09 PM)

You're a worry EI,you need a holiday... he he... :-) The boys will be that fit & hungry to show their wares,and pencil in their names for consideration for Round one for one,and for two to fight like hell to keep in the pre season comp .. etc etc... Do you really think folks they give a damn where they play and against whom?!?!?#@?!++$-10%=....?! They get paid to play not to whinge !! Some of us must lead boring lives to be afraid of the NAB fixture.. he he...Wherever we play,OUR Bomber Supporters will be there to cheer them on,and be happy to see them in their neighbourhood !! GO You Mighty Bombers :-) :-)

- Noel Shields (posted 26/10/2011 3:59:37 PM)

Not sure I agree that we are the AFL's whipping boy. We fight the fights we can fight. Best deal, seemingly, at Etihad (thanks for that info, Diane), still have our club jumper, still have ANZAC Day and other high profile games. I can live with a draw that proves we are the real deal and Collingwood need all the help they can get. Good moral victory.

- Wesley Hull (posted 26/10/2011 4:49:42 PM)

Come on folks, this is a great opportunity, and we will face at least one top four side away from home. Who gives a damn about C & C??? We have supporters EVERYWHERE, and they need a chance to see our boys play too.

- Graeme Blore (posted 26/10/2011 4:57:03 PM)

Don't have a problem with it, the more we play their the more chance we have overcoming our terrible travelling blues. Also lets not forget our supporters who live in Perth whilst they havn't had much joy during the last ten years they will get to see our list before the season starts.

- Rod Hooker (posted 26/10/2011 5:05:12 PM)

What oval will the game at Wang be played at? Anyone please

- Darren Pigott (posted 26/10/2011 6:31:11 PM)

No different than playing a practice match over there really.Our players MUST learn to perform on the road better.It's a fact of this comp.They must,simple as that.

- Mark Elze (posted 26/10/2011 6:57:09 PM)

nab cup means nothing

- Joe Muscara (posted 26/10/2011 8:32:53 PM)

What a Joke. The AFL needs to stop giving the Black and White what they want. I have heard they don't have to travel to the west coast in the regular season. Well why not send them there in the NAB cup. AFL get serious and fair and stop giving Eddy what he wants. Absolute joke I wouldn't even bother going boys. STRIKE and boycott this event.

- Peter Klaaysen (posted 26/10/2011 8:45:09 PM)

Great a first up trip to perth then wangaratta.dont think we'll win any of the nab cup games at that rate..our woeful travelling record wont change...

- Peter Sprenger (posted 26/10/2011 9:02:39 PM)

would like to go to see the bombers play in wangaratta next year in march,, but can't seem to find out what ground they will be playing at anyone knows 'please let me know çheers

- Darren Pigott (posted 27/10/2011 12:24:31 AM)

To Darren Pigott. The match at Wangaratta will be played on the upgraded Showgrounds. The AFL has put a lot of money into this ground with new lighting and to bring the ground up to standard.

- Margaret Livingstone (posted 27/10/2011 9:42:35 AM)

We went to WA two seasons back. Is a little strange. Otherwise - bring it on. A few above need to use a quote from a WA coach - toughen up princess!

- Brad Scarr (posted 27/10/2011 9:53:22 AM)

Doesn't matter where we play our NAB Cup games, we dont need to make the same early statement we did this year.. the club isn't fractured anymore. They should be used for what they are practice games and the season and its duration is what we should be aiming at with these matches.

- Wayne Purcell (posted 27/10/2011 11:38:17 AM)

Max, I couldn't agree more!

- Angeline Baron (posted 27/10/2011 11:54:39 AM)

Another flogging on its way

- Dave Davo (posted 27/10/2011 12:04:51 PM)

It's not a real concern to me where our team plays its pre-season games, because that is what they are, pre-season games, which means that they are played before the football season starts, and while I do like to watch them to see how our newer players go, as long as they play on a good quality surface, the location of the ground is not an issue for me.

- Gordon Moss snr (posted 27/10/2011 1:12:38 PM)

Similar to your dead horse Davo - you are too predictably booooooring.

- Brad Scarr (posted 27/10/2011 1:12:52 PM)

Why are people so obsessed with what happens to or at Collingwood?? jealous of them as a team maybe.. doesn't worry me who we play or where we play, remember when we were a top competitive side we virtually had a monopoly on Friday nite footy, the draw didn't worry us because we could BEAT anyone any where, anytime, easy solution is get bigger, stronger and better than the rest..ColiWHO !!??

- Mark McLachlan (posted 27/10/2011 2:37:56 PM)

E.I and truth in the rumor that Essendon is talking to Carlton about Brock Mclean? Carlton will delist him and Essendon will pick him up in the draft. The clubs are talking about his contract and who pays what as Essendon want Carlton to pay for a large percentage. Any truth?

- Peter Afchianes (posted 27/10/2011 5:10:29 PM)

Peter, I have heard the rumours but that is all they are. Rumours. Wouldn't think he fits in with our plans, but what would I know. I'm only lowly EI :)

- Essendon Insider (posted 27/10/2011 6:17:45 PM)

EI, please don't under estimate your value to the club an especially this forum site, I don't always agree with everything but still have total respect for your decisions and the perplexity of your job, thanx

- Mark McLachlan (posted 27/10/2011 7:36:05 PM)

i thought we travelled there a couple of years ago!! oh well do our best and see what happens, but its only the preseason.

- Dion Mouzakis (posted 27/10/2011 7:40:56 PM)

Go after neon Leon - a quick half back that can use the ball. Can go forward in a pinch. Obvious he's after the money so open up the purse strings and have a crack.

- John Adlam (posted 27/10/2011 7:48:06 PM)

Thanks Mark, always nice to get positive feedback. Looking forward to a big 2012!

- Essendon Insider (posted 27/10/2011 8:53:11 PM)

Yeah, get Brock McLean AND Leon Davis!! Strategy being we sneak in Sebastian Ross wedged between them so no-one will notice.

- Kris Bayne (posted 27/10/2011 8:55:16 PM)

Dont underestimate your importance to the club EI. Your work is terrific on the site. It takes a lot of dedication to do it. Well done EI.

- Jaden Frigo (posted 27/10/2011 10:00:27 PM)

I don't want McLean or Leon Davis at Essendon. Mclean never was quick, and various leg and foot injuries have made him even slower. Also, I have read that he only managed to play 4 games for Carlton seniors this year, despite playing quite a few good games in the VFL. If Carlton no longer rate him, why should we? Leon Davis has played in a premiership side and might not have the extreme hunger for more success, but just more money, and considering that he turns 31 next June, I don't see him as part of our future.

- Gordon Moss snr (posted 27/10/2011 10:34:13 PM)

It just occurred to me that I made a blunder about Davis, he didn't play in Collingwood's premiership team, he was dropped because of poor form, but I still don't want him at Essendon.

- Gordon Moss snr (posted 27/10/2011 10:48:47 PM)

Nothing like belting a sandgroper.. except for belting a croweater. Bring it on!!!

- Nathan Smith (posted 27/10/2011 11:38:56 PM)

Well said indeed Mark,agree wholeheartedly :-) EI is our heartbeat,our disciplinarian,trying to maintain fairness and balance in our forums,without him we would be sheep..pardon the description good people,I mean that respectfully,not in the same tone as in a "biggen" phrase :-) EI should command and receive more truckloads of respect from us all,and he is our friend as well.. Bless you EI,for putting up with some of us,and THANK YOU,am sure I speak on behalf of many more :-) It'll be a miracle indeed if he comes thru to us in the draft Kris,but hey,have always dreamt "miracles do happen.."... always try to live in h-o-p-e.. :-)

- Noel Shields (posted 28/10/2011 1:24:10 AM)

Save the money for Hurley. Home grown is better, particularly for team cohesiveness. Go for youth. Something sus about Davis wanting to move- has he got a crook knee?

- Thomas Faunce (posted 28/10/2011 9:13:55 AM)

Yeah, Noel, my expectation that Ross will be there for us is rivaled in the fantasy stakes only by my 'suggestion' about McLean and Davis (I am KIDDING about them, OK?!!). But, I do expect and trust Dodoro, Hirdy, Bomber and the rest of the brains trust to make the best decision based on the info they have. I did hear that Ross and a whole bunch of midfield draftees might have a bit of a collective groin problem.... (hey, worked last year!).

- Kris Bayne (posted 28/10/2011 10:47:52 AM)

I thought you were kidding about Mclean and Davis Kris, because I've seen many examples of such humour from you, but I just thought I would put in my 2 cents worth for those who are serious about getting one, or both of them.

- Gordon Moss snr (posted 28/10/2011 11:21:21 AM)

Yeah, Gordon M, you put the reasons perfectly. Having read the hysteria of trade week almost nothing would surprise me, but I can't imagine anyone would seriously consider either of those two for a spot on our list. In the bargain bin at the AFL 7-11, I would think.

- Kris Bayne (posted 28/10/2011 11:58:35 AM)

STRANGE perception! Mine, that is. Think Seb Ross would still be available at #31 in such an even draft. for mine the focus on #19 should be Taylor Adams, Mitchell Grigg, Brad McKenzie or Daniel Markworth. And yes, NO to McLean and Davis. Keep the focus on Caddy.

- Martin Gol (posted 28/10/2011 7:58:38 PM)

Being a Bombers member in Perth, I am obviously stoked at the opportunity to see our boys play, seeing that we have only one game here in the season proper. Looking forward to seeing how the young brigade have developed since season end and to get a glimpse of what is to come for the rest of the season.

- scott Wheeler (posted 28/10/2011 10:30:22 PM)

By the 2nd game, we would've familiarised ouselves with Subiaco, so no excuse not to WIN one outta the two games in Perth.

- Nick Tomaras (posted 29/10/2011 2:24:15 PM)

no go to Nab cup.

- mary De Iesi (posted 29/10/2011 7:28:29 PM)

The "Mac's" from the pies would be ok, really don't think Caddy will be easy to get next year, will b a bidding war, he might have just used the Bombers for an early getout

- Mark McLachlan (posted 29/10/2011 7:57:08 PM)

No! No! No Mark McL. Josh Caddy using the Bombers for an early getout? If that were the case, his manager would have called in other Melbourne based clubs. Really think Caddy wants to come to Essendon and next trade/draft period he will be out of contract. If he walks, Dons will unsure a strong position for any bidding war!!! Cheers :)

- Martin Gol (posted 30/10/2011 2:42:50 PM)

Mark :) "the 'Mac's' from the pies would be ok." McBeth is too old and McTavish has had one scotch too many. Uhh, not these two? Think the only 'Mac's' coming out of the Carringbush will be from one of those golden-arch conglomerates.

- Martin Gol (posted 30/10/2011 2:54:43 PM)

"DONS WILL ENSURE A STRONG POSITION..." sounds better than Dons will unsure :( which is poor syntax. Reminds me of the old dude who thought he used to be indecisive. Now he's not so sure!

- Martin Gol (posted 31/10/2011 7:28:08 PM)