Bombers send Saints marching

This win asks more questions than it answers?

- David Husk (posted 30/07/2010 11:14:04 PM)

Does tonight say more about St.Kilda or Essendon?

- David Husk (posted 30/07/2010 11:15:21 PM)

Keep playing "Brooker's Kids"!!!

- David Husk (posted 30/07/2010 11:17:15 PM)

We've only beaten 2 teams twice this year. Richmond (Round 4 pre season, Round 9 season proper) and now St Kilda (Rounds 8 and 18). Two wins in a row, WATCH OUT CARLTON

- Ciaran Broderick (posted 30/07/2010 11:18:24 PM)

I just don't understand how we can be so good and sooooo bad this year. When we play at our best we can beat any team. I haven't been a fan of Knights but perhaps it is the players to blame for our unacceptable season.

- Deon Eruvelil (posted 30/07/2010 11:19:02 PM)

My kids rule, after 18 months of asking I have some of them in & performing. Keep it up Mathew bring in the rest and leave out more. As u can see they will carry the club not your mates.

- Neville Brooker (posted 30/07/2010 11:19:54 PM)

HOULI, HARDINGHAM, PRISMALL, HOWLETT. HAVE NOT SEEN ENOUGH OF THEM THIS YEAR. MYERS TOO.

- BOB DAVIES (posted 30/07/2010 11:21:55 PM)

One of the pleasing aspects of the win is that the side should remain settled (depending how Jobe pulls up), NO Changes Knighta. Keep Henry in the magoos for next week please...our defense was good tonight!!!

- David Husk (posted 30/07/2010 11:22:02 PM)

Great effort boys!!! Unreal win good start to this weekend. Best performance all year. Keep it up MIGHTY DONS!!!!

- Chris Maher (posted 30/07/2010 11:23:45 PM)

THE DONS SEND THE SAINTS MARCHING BACK TO THE FUTURE!!! JUST BRILLIANT BOYS VERY PROUD AND VERY LOUD!!!! WOOOOOOOO!!!

- Abel Leesang (posted 30/07/2010 11:24:43 PM)

wat a great game by houli

- zed man (posted 30/07/2010 11:25:12 PM)

WAHOO great team effort well done

- Trevor Scarborough (posted 30/07/2010 11:27:11 PM)

A great team Win. Should be an unchanged team for next week, providing no injuries! Amazing what can be done when the team works together and is hard at the ball. Good to see we are getting harder at it, hope this continues and is not just a one off again. Still need to get tougher though to be a premiership threat in years to come!!! Good effort slowly gaining some respect again fellas

- ian Cocking (posted 30/07/2010 11:30:07 PM)

Just got home from Ethiad, Congratulations and well done to entire Team very well done. Special mention to everyone's favourite Fletch. Lots of noise from crowd, it was like old times. GO BOMBERS!!!!!

- Jenny Everitt (posted 30/07/2010 11:31:57 PM)

So impressed with the performance of the boys tonight! It was truly inspirational and I am dumbfounded as to how Bachar Houli wasn't getting games earlier on in the year. Go the BOMBERS! Bring on those over-rated and over-hyped Blue boys next week!

- Joseph Attard (posted 30/07/2010 11:32:34 PM)

great win bomber's keep it up we just need to win the next game against carlton go bomber's

- Ashleigh Lester (posted 30/07/2010 11:33:40 PM)

GREAT PERFORMANCE TONIGHT..That is the Essendon spirit we have been missing. Great team effort.

- Jamie Sleep (posted 30/07/2010 11:34:03 PM)

united we stand,supporters,coaches,and united we crushed soft saints.love it

- power david (posted 30/07/2010 11:34:51 PM)

well done,now lets not make too many unforced changes,let ricky,henry and andrew wait their turn!!

- nicholas pascoe (posted 30/07/2010 11:37:15 PM)

Fantastic Bombers.....I posted yesterday that all I was looking for was 100% effort and blow the result. Well, you gave 100% and won the game as well, brilliant.

- Peter Podgornik (posted 30/07/2010 11:38:20 PM)

Loved the comment on the big screen at half time !!! " Is St Kilda the new Carlton ???

- tom amos (posted 30/07/2010 11:39:29 PM)

What can one say, other than "Brilliant! Exciting!"? Everyone did their job, and Fletcher is just superb. He is ageless and seems to get better with age. He really architects the backline. I'm hoping somebody invents "stay young" pills. Having said that, I could go on praising each player for outstanding performances, but obviously do not have the space. Suffice to say I will watch this game to-morrow on tape, probably again and again. WELL DONE, BOMBERS!

- Joan Hill (posted 30/07/2010 11:43:09 PM)

Just got back from the game. SENSATIONAL!!! Disapointing crowd numbers at the game but those who were there were rewarded by the boys who played their hearts out. Great start to the weekend too as a bonus. Thanks to all the faithfull at the game.

- Alan De Menezes (posted 30/07/2010 11:44:16 PM)

Fantastic effort Bombers , but l am mystified by our performances.This is why we supporters have been upset losing to West Coast etc etc and now beating the Saints twice.I think tonight was a team effort and if anybody is dropped they would be extremely dissapointed.Finally we have found out that Hurley is a CHB who can pinch hit in the forward line if needed.As every week passes l am wondering why Howlett was dropped not long ago , this guy is an honest performer who keeps getting the ball.Let's finish the season off on a positive note and in 2011 finals is a MUST for the club

- PETER DAVIES (posted 30/07/2010 11:44:32 PM)

Tonight I saw the Bombers fly up and stay aloft until landing triumphantly on top of the Saints. What a great team effort from a confident, competent and commanding group of Essendon men.

- jennifer herrald (posted 30/07/2010 11:45:08 PM)

Great game all round. We took the game on and moved the ball quickly. Howlett was great support for Jobe in the middle. Hille coming back into the side was massive. GO BOMBERS!

- Savio Roy (posted 30/07/2010 11:47:34 PM)

Great win boys, too bad i had to go with my head in the footy tips and tip the saints.. ahhrrgghh! Hopefully another great performance against the blues next week!

- Daniel Krukowski (posted 30/07/2010 11:47:44 PM)

WOOHOO, very, very good win Bombers, hope everyone, has a great weekend, always good to start the weekend with a win. Great to see Stanton play well, Hooker, Hurley, actually the whole team, you all played a good game, WELL DONE.

- Elly Davidson (posted 30/07/2010 11:49:35 PM)

Awesome, now all the baggers can shut up. All we need now is consistency...

- Liam Doidge (posted 30/07/2010 11:49:38 PM)

WOOHOO, very, very good win Bombers, hope everyone, has a great weekend, always good to start the weekend with a win. Great to see Stanton play well, Hooker, Hurley, actually the whole team, you all played a good game, WELL DONE.

- Elly Davidson (posted 30/07/2010 11:49:53 PM)

Well done fellas on a top effort tonight. I guess the sad thing is that you have highlighted how good a team we can be. Sadly for 6 of the last 8 weeks that has been missing and we are not a realistic chance of making the finals because of it. Goodluck for next week, beating Carlton twice in a season would almost be as good as making the finals.

- Paul Bonusiak (posted 30/07/2010 11:51:20 PM)

best win this season. well done to the whole team and coaches! go bombers

- Keith Bagshaw (posted 30/07/2010 11:55:23 PM)

270 thank you very much... TO ALL THE PEOPLE THAT HAVE DOUBTED US!!!!!! THANKS FOR MAKING US STRONGER!!!!!

- Darryl Bullard (posted 30/07/2010 11:55:56 PM)

What a great team performance. The boys did us proud tonight. Congrats to the players and the coaching staff for a job well done. 3 in a row against the Saints, now bring on the Blues.

- Essendon Insider (posted 30/07/2010 11:57:30 PM)

Outstanding win !! Sensational. Hurley and Fletcher were brilliant. Future is looking great for Bomber fans with Hardingham, Houli and Colyer showing a heap of promise. Go Bombers.

- Aaron Wright (posted 30/07/2010 11:58:45 PM)

By far our best performance of they year. Too quick and too hard at the contest. Amazing what confidence does to a team. Where are the Knights-baggers now???

- Matt Pocock (posted 30/07/2010 11:58:53 PM)

Where's IVAR!!!

- Chris Maher (posted 31/07/2010 12:03:44 AM)

What a HAT TRICK!!!!!

- Adrian Reynolds (posted 31/07/2010 12:04:56 AM)

So glad I went. Houli, I've been mentioning his name all year. Always rated him. He's slick. Who says he can't kick? Beautiful left footer!

- Luke Androulakis (posted 31/07/2010 12:06:57 AM)

First, Well done Boys! I must admit i'm wrong about stants. Fletch you bewdy!Hooksy you're a star! Hurley you are a warrior! a General, like Maximus.lol stood his ground. and the rest of the boys, played like a solid team.

- mark manginsay (posted 31/07/2010 12:07:50 AM)

excellent win boys, much has been said adout this group of late, as much as the bad times are so extremely bad this club never fails in it's integrity guts and soul that that we both expect and revere. lets hope we continue flying UP!!!

- Andrew Woolcock (posted 31/07/2010 12:10:50 AM)

What a great effort by the boys.Could not pick a best on ground,would have to go to the whole team.Houli played a great game tonight.Think the team was a great mix of old and young tonight.Great team balance.Neagle and Gumbleton are starting to play well together,as is Hille and Ryder.They are just a great tag team.Well done boys,I for one are very proud of you all.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 31/07/2010 12:14:13 AM)

BRILLIANT! How much more balanced the side is when Hilley plays - he's such a dominant figure - one of the comp's gun ruckmen now. Top effort from the whole 22 - no changes next week unless forced. As for Fletch - like a vintage Chateau Margaux - top shelf and just getting better, one of absolute legends of the club. Gotta win next week against the Old Enemy. GO BOMBERS.

- Ian Harrop (posted 31/07/2010 12:16:27 AM)

Well done to all the players out there tonight, played their absolute heart out. Hurley and Fletcher in defense were great, our run and carry was fantastic as well. Next four wins in a row? Yes we can!

- Nathanael Levonian (posted 31/07/2010 12:18:15 AM)

I have noticed heaps of posts on how good hurley, fletch and Houli where. They were all good, but i think Hooker needs a special mention, smashed Riewoldt tonight and was definetly in our top few players, although very hard to split with a great team effort. Hardingham looks like another russel robertson in only his second game. Good effort fella and great attack on the ball. Stanton looks to be a lot better backman than midfielder, leave howlett and colyer in the guts they will grow very well. Hille is a most influencial player i would have to say!

- ian Cocking (posted 31/07/2010 12:19:02 AM)

Well, well, my fellow Stepford Wives and blind supporters! How sweet is this? :) I said our boys would give those Saints a belting! I don't care when we lose, but it is wonderful to see the mighty Bombers stripping the flesh off their opposition! Well done, EFC, one and all. Now, let's go turn Carlton into the Black-and-Blues! :)

- Angeline Baron (posted 31/07/2010 12:21:28 AM)

Great job by Sam Lonergan in his 50th game. Great to see him back in the right position in and under getting the clearances.

- Emma James (posted 31/07/2010 12:25:40 AM)

Gobsmacked! Even those of us that suspected we'd come good couldn't have imagined we'd negate cup favorites like that. Is the fact that at a lot of the excitement has come from young talent (tonight particularly Hurley & Colyer)? Was glad to see Gumby man up and come back on to finish the game off despite not having much furher impact. Houli impressed.

- Duncan Eastey (posted 31/07/2010 12:25:55 AM)

Kudos to Hooker, Howlett, Stanton, Monfries, and well, just everyone! I think we are all in agreement that tonight's victory was a team effort. :) Angie xxx

- Angeline Baron (posted 31/07/2010 12:27:32 AM)

To all the Knights bashers...just shut up and go away...dont ever threaten not to renew your membership...just go peacefully, we dont need your comments or negativity.

- Michael Bourke (posted 31/07/2010 12:30:32 AM)

And I salute the mighty Dustin Fletcher, of course! There should be a special award for him on Crichton night: perhaps it could be called "The Freak of the Season!" Dustin, you are a legend of the game. :) Angie xx

- Angeline Baron (posted 31/07/2010 12:31:18 AM)

Maybe hardingham over barlow wasnt such a bad decision after all!! Maybe dodoro and co know a little more about recruiting than a lot of know all negative posters to this site

- Michael Bourke (posted 31/07/2010 12:34:14 AM)

Sensational performance tonight!! So proud of the team, they played magnificently! So good to see the Hille-Ryder combo on the ground again. Houli, Hardingham need to stay in the side. Great work by Angus and Hurley is really blossoming in the backline. Only downside was that lapse in the 4th quarter. Oh, and Reimers, he's a great player, except for when he tries to show off. If he just plays his game, and forgets the flashy stuff, he's a real gun! As for Fletch... LIVING LEGEND!! Whatever's changed over the last 2 weeks- keep it up!!

- Kirstin McKenzie (posted 31/07/2010 12:35:51 AM)

go bombers good game by all ,2 good games dont make Knights a great coach he still has a lot to answer for .Knights having a go at our champions for having an opinion to me thats not on.He better win more then 9 games this year or we are going backwards.Again great game now for the Blue and pies Go Bombers

- Neil Missen (posted 31/07/2010 12:36:17 AM)

great win bombers! And EI, in my opinion you have definitely been more open to supporters requests in the last couple of weeks so well done. And a big well done to the supporters on here who continually ask the hard questions and give insightful opinions.

- Rick Astley (posted 31/07/2010 12:38:45 AM)

Special metion to Stanton. Great game off half back. 36 possesions, no taggers.

- Brian Harvey (posted 31/07/2010 12:42:26 AM)

I am dissapointed that this effort is not the norm, great for the short term but what does it really mean if the season is dead. Some better signs from some key men such as gumbleton and monfries up front. Still think we lack the toughness and discipline that brings consistency. Not sure if its worth getting too excited just yet either. Can someone please tell stanton to stop this stupid arm in the air tactic at the end of each quater - seriously why tell the opposition that your not going to try and score - stupid behaviour! - Go dons

- Alan Pratt (posted 31/07/2010 12:43:34 AM)

Great team win Bombers, really looked like we wanted the ball tonight. We know now what a loss David Hille has been, welcome back, well played. Congratulations to you all! Plenty of empty seats, come on supporters get to the games. Don't knock, support. Rob Box

- Robert Box (posted 31/07/2010 12:50:15 AM)

What a win! The best I have seen in a long time. It is frustrating not see that effort every week but that will come in time. The most important thing is that we know that we can match it with the best teams and we have a list to take us to our next premiership. Great games to Hurley, Fletcher, Hocking, Hooker, Howlett, Stanton and Monfries.

- Andrew Cichello (posted 31/07/2010 12:52:18 AM)

thats it bombers! play the rest of the season like tonight and we will not only gain some respect back but build as a club.. good job boys!!

- Daniel glasson (posted 31/07/2010 1:02:15 AM)

I really like this team at the moment just proves if we have all 22 players contribute we can beat anyone.

- Anthony Montalto (posted 31/07/2010 1:03:59 AM)

A great first quarter but Ess let the saints back into the game. Kyle reimers is a good example of stupidity and immaturity. Ess held it up far too many times tonight when they should of attacked, each time this stupid play happened saints kicked goals.. Attack ess, dont hold it up, handball crazy again at times, but over all a good win. gotta play more attacking football ess, not defensive football...

- tongs . (posted 31/07/2010 1:10:46 AM)

Wonderful win ! Congratulations to the whole team - and to Knights. The seeds of the win were sown at the selection table (as were the seeds of prior defeats).

- Michael Tovey (posted 31/07/2010 1:24:27 AM)

That's all we ask, boys. Regardless of whether we win or lose, all we supporters want is effort! Just proves what a waste of a season this will turn out to be. Great 4 qtr team effort! Well done, boys. Especially Hooker...seems lala Riewoldt may have a sore backside tomorrow!

- Chris Crooks (posted 31/07/2010 1:24:34 AM)

great win by the boys but there are still many ???? about Knights at the selection table. Game plan is great when up and running but has not shown ability to go to plan b when the wheels come off plan a. This win is great for the club but very bemusing also!!!!

- glenn cornish (posted 31/07/2010 1:28:37 AM)

We missed Hille recently and last year. When he gets with Paddy they combine nicely to dominate rucking duties and create forward opportunities. I don’t think Hardingham is the last of the surprises, there are a few more to come through could really develop for us. Houli looks strong, still feel we need some more toughness. Coach should be getting team settled soon to finish year strong and build for next. Great confidence booster for us, well done. Fletch is great, older but bolder, but still a big part of our boost.

- Gary Walker (posted 31/07/2010 1:29:33 AM)

All behold the 'GREAT WALL OF FLETCHER'the EIGHTH wonder of the world!!!!Amazing performance Dustin!Boy you must sleep well at night! Good stuff Bombers-SMASHED 'EM LIKE GUITARS!!Stellar exhibition tonight!:)

- Mark Elze (posted 31/07/2010 1:29:39 AM)

I'll have 'fries with our order - he may be another great 'mercuri' type.

- Gary Walker (posted 31/07/2010 1:32:43 AM)

Great effort from all, who was it who said Milne would dominate unless Henry played? The club must sign HOULI IMMEDIATELY, if he leaves and we give henry another contract we are doomed,Best footy we have played in a while but the saints were pretty useless as well,Fletch,Jobe, Hurley,Hooker,Gus, houli,and many more did us proud.

- Brian McKenna (posted 31/07/2010 1:45:41 AM)

we are essendon, we are essendon...we are essendon, we are essendon!!!...and again...

- Davor Stanic (posted 31/07/2010 2:00:29 AM)

Proof was in the pudding, our best negator is and has been for a while Mark Spike Hollywood Mcveigh, well done spike, and if Hurley does not get the rising star award this week the judges have lost the plot, great stuff Michael,I thought you were a good forward option but you are clearly a gun defender with a great ball reading ability, well done Cale as well, or is it Carl as one umpire called you, we know who you are Booker t,hehehe. As for the free against Hurley for the bump on Kosi... Clueless...keep doing the tough stuff hurls, great bump..

- Brian McKenna (posted 31/07/2010 2:00:42 AM)

Fantastic job Bombers, keep this form up into next season and we will go places. Can someone give some credit to Knighta, instead of my support all the time. If the bunch of Knights haters blame him for our losses, then shouldn`t he get the blame for our wins. It`s funny, but they don`t speak up much when we win. Oh well I will, very good job tonight Knighta well done.

- Cory Williams (posted 31/07/2010 2:05:38 AM)

Glad to see the coaches followed my suggestions on a past thread about how to beat the Saints ;-) . I was just a bit conservative on the margin. Credit to the team and also to the coaches for understanding the players and when they are ready to be played. Commentators insult EFC by suggesting the loss was their bad day. The EFC coaches had a plan, the players played it, the plan and St. Kilda were executed. St. Kilda is our bunny! Bring on the next one!

- Kris Bayne (posted 31/07/2010 2:29:13 AM)

Great game! So glad I was there to witness it. Simply outstanding play from the whole team. I don't think you can pick a b.o.g, except to say that Hille made a big difference to our team and the wonderful Dustin Fletcher keeps on keeping on - his workrate is just amazing. I wasn't convinced after we won against the Roos but I am certainly looking forward to the rest of the year. Bring it on!

- Rita Sharrock (posted 31/07/2010 2:33:15 AM)

what a great game it was a great team effort i love hurley down back and what a champion the mighty fletcher you are my hero. but why do we persist at the end of quarters playing that horrid style of kick to kick and we invariably lose the ball and get scored against if that stopped i'd be over the moon not one supporter likes that why don't we go on to crush a team we could of tonight easily loved it otherwise go bombers

- Ruth Williams (posted 31/07/2010 2:47:47 AM)

Well done best team effort lets do it again next week and after may be you never know keep on winning and might sneak into the 8th. Wish i was there I am overseas but listened on the radio and could not believe first thing i heard 7 goals to one so I presumed it was the saints on top I was so happy it was the MIGHTY BOMBERS. WELL DONE.

- Romilda Jones (posted 31/07/2010 3:14:27 AM)

OMG such an unreal fantastic game. I never seen this great team work from our team for so long. I was enjoyed to watch our professional played for the whole game especially Quarter 1. Good work boys. Looking forward to beat Carlton next week. Go Bombers ;-)

- joom Lilburne (posted 31/07/2010 3:57:14 AM)

The future's so bright, i gotta wear shades.........

- Nick Tomaras (posted 31/07/2010 4:25:48 AM)

Great win and great to see the courageous acts of Zaha (Mr Essendon), Gumby and Froggy!...and teh passion of "Bomber Hardingham"

- Alan McCready (posted 31/07/2010 6:10:00 AM)

Houli and Prismall and Hooker were all fantastic...well done Bombers....no changes PLEASE Knights!

- sam mcmahon (posted 31/07/2010 7:23:59 AM)

As good as our first quarter was , i thought our second and third quarters where just as important , we didn't let them kick 6 or 7 in a row !!!!!!!!!! DEFENCE ...woo hoo .

- Tez Katajala (posted 31/07/2010 7:31:19 AM)

We never stopped wanting the ball tonight,what a brilliant team effort,our skills were up,not many missed targets.Great to see Stanton play so well,Houli is going to be so important for us,Fletch you are brilliant.Very proud of all 22 players.

- Cheryl Spivey (posted 31/07/2010 7:41:39 AM)

Sensational!! Hammered them in every area. Hopefully this sort of win against a genuine premiership contender will hush some of the critics. I happily eat my words on stanton, he has reinvented himself off halfback. Best team performance all year, Well done boys!!

- Chris Litchfield (posted 31/07/2010 7:42:20 AM)

Awesome from Knights down. How good were they all. Hooker and Pris turned me around last night. More young talent on show and more to come. Elite players at Essendon? We are a team, we are Essendon!

- Brad Scarr (posted 31/07/2010 7:49:37 AM)

Great team effort. Reimers needs to not get overexcited and play good football as he has shown. Should be an unchanged side barring injuries. Stanton great as a running half back and Houli's foot and handpassibng superb. Neagle did well with limited game time and will continue to improve. Make Welsh earn his spot and leave Henry at Bendigo for the remainder of the season, you need creative players in the back half.

- Peter Twigg (posted 31/07/2010 7:53:56 AM)

get game great team effort!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

- Nathan Wilson (posted 31/07/2010 7:57:48 AM)

Best game i've seen Dirty play, he made Reivolt look second rate, Fletch = Legend!! Keep shaping the 8, Brisbane aside, its a tough run home but lets rattle some cages!! Go Bombers!!

- Chris Litchfield (posted 31/07/2010 8:00:52 AM)

Brilliant!

- James Pollock (posted 31/07/2010 8:05:08 AM)

Could not be prouder of my team. What a brilliant game! Houli, Hooker, Stanton, Howlett, Hille, Monfries, Ryder, Hocking, Hurley, Fletcher just so so impressed. No changes this week unless it's Winders in for Lonergan. carn dons!

- Sarah Ben-M''Rad (posted 31/07/2010 8:17:47 AM)

Great win boys! This is typical of a very young talented side. As much as Knights said they should be regarded as men they are still kids. Dizzying heights and desperate lows. They are going to mature together and win us more games than they lose. It's called character building. Lets ride the rollercoaster with them. It makes victory sweeter. GO BOMBERS

- Nathan Crocker (posted 31/07/2010 8:32:08 AM)

tonights win was just to show the critics the heart of essendon to show that were not a load of nothing like every1 turns us out to be. AND I JUST LOVE HOW YOU DEVELOPING THESE YOUNG PLAYERS KNIGHTER AND AT LEAST LET OTHER KIDS GET A GO BECAUSE IMAGINE WHATS GOING TO HAPPEN WHEN HILLE, MCVEIGH,FLETCHER AND ALL THEM RETIRE, BUT FANTASTIC GAME!!!!!!!!!!!!! WELLDONEEEEEEEEEEE

- Andy Toma (posted 31/07/2010 8:43:02 AM)

Great win, Bombers. Felt really pleased with myself that I tipped the team to caught the upset. Those experts, like in the small paper, can get it wrong sometimes, can't they? Anyway, wonderful games from everyone, especially evergreen Fletch, Hooker, Spike McVeigh, skipper Jobe Watson and Gus Monfries. Special mentions to the rest of the 22 who represented the club last night - a real team effort, and it's lovely to get another one over the Saints. Now the Blues next...to hopefully make it 7 on the trot over them. Go Dons!

- Natha Sao-Mafiti (posted 31/07/2010 8:45:07 AM)

Good morning Angels, Oh what a beautiful morning,Oh what a beautiful day,I've got a beautiful feeling,everythings going OK.Special mention for Sam and Alwyn late in the last quarter when it was all over,they threw their bodies in where Angels fear to tread.

- Billl Carbis (posted 31/07/2010 8:46:33 AM)

Hille is our most important player, frees up Paddy and adds presence on the field. Gus's best game of the season, great to see Lonergan & Davey's efforts in the last minute. On the other side, we have lost to west coast twice, lost to port and should of won against Sydney, that's 16 points which would of put us top four, that's why ess supporters are so angry with knights because we all kknow what we can do on any given day. Lets finish off the year with consistency and smash those baggers and pies in the next two weeks! Go Dons!

- Malcolm Milgate (posted 31/07/2010 8:46:46 AM)

Last weeks win made my 10 hours in the car worth the trip, this week the confidence seems to be creeping back in. Its nice to have something positive to say, lets hope the confidence from 2 wins in a row rolls onto next weeks game

- tracy rebonds (posted 31/07/2010 8:49:18 AM)

Wonderful, wonderful win! Those who don't understand why we are so up and down this year should understand that this year's team has often had more "under 50 game" players in it than ANY that Sheedy coached in his entire career. Young teams go up and down. Their best, like last night, is the true sign of their future capabilities. Celebrate them!

- Rod Hagen (posted 31/07/2010 8:54:06 AM)

Hopefully last night people saw how good a footballer Stanton is, and HAS BEEN since we drafted him. His gut running and rebound out of defence set up attack after attack. Playing him there breaks the hard tag that every club put on him. I've never understood the people who have consistently undermined this bloke. Would be one of the first picked in my best 22.

- Dennis Green (posted 31/07/2010 9:00:59 AM)

WONDERFUL WIN BOYS!!! Excellent games Houli,Hurley,Fletcher,Stanton,McVeigh,Colyer our skipper Jobe, even I have say C.Hooker great game mate you got the points against Rooy well done.Don't mind Hardingham at all looks the goods,Bachar should've played 18 games this year to classy to be running around in the 2s.Great Win Boys! Lets give the Blue Boys a Hiding this week. GO BOMBERS!!!

- Ben O'Neill (posted 31/07/2010 9:26:49 AM)

We are waiting Ivar and DAVE!!!!!!!!

- Scott Polden (posted 31/07/2010 9:27:37 AM)

Great team effort, everybody put in for the whole four quarters, starting to see great signs for next year, thanks and well done young bombers, will sleep well all week lol

- Paul Pascuzzi (posted 31/07/2010 9:28:46 AM)

It's Saturday morning and we have four points in the bag. It's a sweet feeling! How about the attack of the 'Bomber H-Team' - Hurley, Hooker, Howlett, Hardingham, Houli, Hille and Hocking! And with 24 players under the age of 21 the future looks bright.

- Essendon Insider (posted 31/07/2010 10:24:59 AM)

great game bombers.bring on the blues, with a similar mindset we can knock them over too.

- barry hoskin (posted 31/07/2010 10:26:13 AM)

Fantastic team/club effort. Now let's shape the 8 over the next month.

- Peter Murray (posted 31/07/2010 10:31:00 AM)

Get in Winda next week and we will have the best looking team we have had in a while. Bloody hell Hardingham is looking good for us.

- Michael Walters (posted 31/07/2010 10:33:28 AM)

VERY PLEASING BUTS LETS WAIT FOR NEXT WEEKS PRFORMANCE BEFORE WE GO OVER THE TOP -THINK BACK TO SOME OF OUR OTHER GAMES IN THE LAST 2 MONTHS -CONSISTENCY WE HAVE BEEN PLAYING ON AND OFF FOR A COUPLE OF YEARS AND BY READING THE COMMENTS ABOVE WE SEEM TO BE ACCEPTING THIS AS NORMAL -NOT GOOD ENOUGH

- John Donaldson (posted 31/07/2010 10:35:47 AM)

What a win!!! Absolutely stoked. And great to watch the bombers pressure, hell made the Saints look big, old, slow & soft. WOOO! The whole team played so well together, big kudo's to the defensive pressure! I'm liking Hurley down back, seems to read the ball so well and shakes up those forwards. And Stants is looking much better in a defensive role as well. Yay, the future looks bright =) And Fletch, hooker, dempsey and hocking....clap, clap, clap! Well same goes for the rest of the team. End of rant.

- Melanie Jones (posted 31/07/2010 10:36:34 AM)

Well done boys, thats what we want to see. I can't help asking though, where has that game been all season.

- Christopher Ford (posted 31/07/2010 10:38:05 AM)

Lions coach Voss said Melbourne Demons are a team on the way up (60+ point MD win last round). The fact Essendon couldn't BURY St Kilda might certify Voss's appraisal. I'm sounding critical & ungrateful, but I YEARN for a 45+ point defeat that'll 'whittle' my high standards with pride. I'll take a win any day (allbeit Kangaroos & Saints ladder percentages look shaky)...but IMHO no glory & fame, yet! Dempsey & Zaharakis MUST SPEND A WEEK in Bendigo ('scuttled' run, no marking, astray handballs). McVeigh must play on another year FTW! Had a feeling early this week we'd win by 20 to 39 points, but I only put 5 cent bets on BombersBet: DEPRESSING, hence this semi-cynical post!

- Jose Bay (posted 31/07/2010 10:41:00 AM)

Knock knock, who's there? Ivar, Ivar who? Ivar gone quiet now the Bombers are winning!!!!

- Chris Litchfield (posted 31/07/2010 10:47:30 AM)

Looking at the stats our disposal efficiency was great. Go Bombers

- Tim Lenton (posted 31/07/2010 10:54:40 AM)

Johnny's weekend is so much better with an early win and great performance like that. Houli must play from now on. His disposal was pinpoint and he's pretty cool under pressure. Essendon Insider, i think it's time you highlight Johnny's comments in red like you do your own...Johnny U

- Johnny Utah (posted 31/07/2010 10:56:51 AM)

Happy. Well done Matty Knights and the boys. Special mentions Howlett, Houli, the tall defenders and Stants, but all deserve praise. How good is that young Fletcher, keep an eye on him, he's developing into quite a player.

- Luke Smith (posted 31/07/2010 10:59:12 AM)

Very good game from all players. Good to see Hurley down back for the whole game, Hocking just seems to get tougher and tougher, and I can't wait until Reimers gets as good as he thinks he is. Fletch put his hand up for best backman ever, yet again. Games like that are why some of us fans have been frustrated, we know the side can do it but they haven't been, the past 2 months cost us finals. It was a good victory from the players this week.

- Kevin Jackson (posted 31/07/2010 11:03:25 AM)

Very impressive. We have just thrashed the team which was third on the ladder. The final margin flattered St Kilda, blind Freddy would have noticed that we eased up a bit in the last quarter. The future is looking exciting for us. We have a very long list of good players who are only 22 or younger, who will only get better. We have got good depth now. We won last night without Pears and Winder, both very good players. I haven't seen any comments today from supporters who "know" that Knights can't coach, and who "know" that Stanton should't be in the team. Where are these "experts" today?

- Gordon Moss snr (posted 31/07/2010 11:06:15 AM)

...FIRST, THERE WAS THE H-BOMB. NOW, WE HAVE THE H-BOMBERS!... As mentioned earlier this week, 7 of our 40 players (equivalent to a remarkable 17.5%) have a surname beginning with the letter 'H'..... H for hunger. H for hope. H for honorable. H for heart. H for heroic. H for hardy. H for "How do you like them apples?"

- jennifer herrald (posted 31/07/2010 11:16:05 AM)

Points are growing, as are egos, thanks to all involved, including spirited supporters and comment writers. With every action there is a re-action. I want the carton supporters to feel our win put on them. Send them home early if you dare Essendon. We cant be beaten!

- Iain Taylor (posted 31/07/2010 11:17:16 AM)

GARY WALKER, I found your comments about Knights & EFC unearthing more flashy/ASAP impact rookies/débutantes 'CUTE'. I'd like to believe it, I really do - but Western academia teaches students/graduates/citizens about SCARCITY in economics/life. That is, won't 'The Invisible Hand' have already granted/blessed Essendon it's QUOTA/SHARE of new talent for 2010? Winning formula is 'team list stability' everyone says, but maybe Knights has a few tricks left up his sleeve yet! Surely though, the broader AFL community must grant wider praise & recognition of Matthew Knights resurrecting EFC frailing list after 2007 e.g. Pears, Hookers, Hardingham, Coyler, Melksham, Howlett, T Slattery, Quinn, TBA...

- Jose Bay (posted 31/07/2010 11:21:25 AM)

Congrats all round on a great but unexpected win Bombers. Hope we can keep it going. And - Chris Litchfield (posted 31/07/2010 10:47:30 AM) it's not me going quiet mate it's the club suppressing my comments. Only 4 more games as a member to go after so many years. Regards Ivar.

- Ivar Biggen (posted 31/07/2010 11:22:52 AM)

What a sensational win again, well done to the entire team and coaching staff tonight! Last night also demenstrates how important and what a fantastic leader David Hille is. Not having him in the team for the last 7 weeks has resulted in only 1 win & 6 losses, coincidence or not? In my opinion he should be our Vice Captain next year. Go the Mighty Dons!

- Craig Jackson (posted 31/07/2010 11:30:49 AM)

How good was Froggy's attack on it with less than 30 seconds to go! That'll get shown during the week. Special "tough man" mention to Gumby as well, trying to play on after breaking ribs and puncturing a lung. Reputations are built on acts of courage so go hard at it.

- Rick Astley (posted 31/07/2010 11:34:15 AM)

@ Jose Bay, clearly have no idea about Zaharakis brilliant player and very polished we got him for an absolute steal at draft pick no.23! 20 disposals @ 80%, 9 marks and 2 goal assists last night doesn't sound to bad to me. Stop bagging players support is whats needed!

- Craig Jackson (posted 31/07/2010 11:39:28 AM)

Does anyone think the media spotlighting Tony Abbott's visit & the TV circus at Windy Hill (earlier & in the lead up to the week) stimulate the EFC playing list's CONFIDENCE & the team line up that did later eventually BEAT St Kilda last night? They highlighted this occurrence & some footage of it during the half time break last night. I'D BE INTERESTED TO SEE WHAT OTHER FANS THINK OF THIS (PERHAPS) UNPRECEDENTED EVENT. PS: I'm 'was' gonna vote Labor (miss ya Ruddy boy!), but after this & last night - I'm having second thoughts!

- Jose Bay (posted 31/07/2010 11:39:49 AM)

GREAT WIN! To ALL the Knights bashers...and Stanton baggers...give credit where credit is due! This team and This coach ARe travelling in the right direction. Be patients Bombers supporters...it IS coming!!!!

- David Turnbull (posted 31/07/2010 11:40:41 AM)

Congratulations Knighta!! Love your work mate! Im with ya all the way!! Game plan was brilliant, running around the saints zone or breaking through it with handballs. Sure it didnt always work but thats footy. Hardingham is destined to be a cult hero!

- Yohan Pereira (posted 31/07/2010 11:41:28 AM)

There are a lot of peoples names missing from the posts this week. Go back in time 4 weeks and see all the Knightsbashers comments....where are you now.....why can people not understand that we have a very young group and inconsistency is just part of the learning process, especially without our number 1 leader on the ground. Do not underestimate the value of having David HILLE back in the side. Vital to the young players. Keep building boys!!

- Grant Flack (posted 31/07/2010 11:43:46 AM)

Very good perception Dennis Green re Brent Stanton. A polished performer at half-back and he adds a touch of class to a rebounding defence. Last start against Geelong the much maligned Don received a heavy tag in Cameron Ling (plays multi dimensional) who not only can nulify his immediate opponent but also creates play by setting-up his team-mates in the process. While Stanton was nulified that particular game he did negate Lings attacking influence. It's intriguing that Stanton is held in much higher regard by opposition coaches and most football commentators than by some/many Bomber supporters! Cheers

- Martin Gol (posted 31/07/2010 11:44:39 AM)

Notice the small crowd there for our home game EFC??? Is this a sign of the time and things to come??? How the mighty have fallen!!! Regards Ivar.

- Ivar Biggen (posted 31/07/2010 12:02:16 PM)

Hey Charlie, a classic movie Oklahoma! Mission completed.. what is our next task Boss? Oh Yes Carlton, I can't wait, gotta go gotta get my hair & make up done, Angeline & Di are waiting.. bye!

- JAN STOTT (posted 31/07/2010 12:08:05 PM)

Silence the Knights' knockers!yup,Don't come out. Stay Wherever you are. you can can even shut that big whinging mouth for good, EFC doesn't need you. Back to the EFC boys, That win wasn't a fluke. That's what you get when you play as a team and push hard.

- mark manginsay (posted 31/07/2010 12:16:29 PM)

Neil,Lloyd(on sen) said Knights rang him during the week and that he wasnt talking about the ex players at his press conference.Hird(on fox)said Knight text him the next day and also told him the same thing.Cory you have a lot of us supporters right behind you backing knights.The baggers only bag,thats why they are called baggers.You wont hear from them.Heard Fletcher say on why Houli has been left out of the team.PT1.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 31/07/2010 12:21:13 PM)

ive been saying for ages that hardingham is a gun and should be in the seniors with houli and howlett and people laughed.. whos laughing now

- Cohlby Giblett (posted 31/07/2010 12:22:27 PM)

PT2 Fletcher said he lacked confidence which they had to build up,also his fumbling of the ground balls.Hooker is getting his confidence back after his injury was great to see.Stanton,great to see you back.How good was Howlett at the bounce of the ball.BOG! THE WHOLE TEAM.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 31/07/2010 12:30:17 PM)

Well done Knights and the coaching staff. Well done Jobe and the entire team. Well done to the supporters who "support" Well done ESSENDON!!!

- Alan De Menezes (posted 31/07/2010 12:33:13 PM)

great win boys... h

- karlos cavelli (posted 31/07/2010 12:33:15 PM)

great win boys... Houli your a star 96% efficiency thats fantastic. (ivar where are your negative comments this week). knight keep playing the kids, confidence is a big thing. bachar hope you sign soon.

- karlos cavelli (posted 31/07/2010 12:37:31 PM)

Neagle: Out. Reimers: Out.

- jennifer herrald (posted 31/07/2010 12:37:37 PM)

Good morning Bill(alias charlie)what a great morning it is.Have a smile reading the paper this morning.Will be watching the replay before going to work this afternoon.Bill your assignment this week,get the fans up and going.Ready to smash those blues this week.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 31/07/2010 12:38:13 PM)

Very happy with a great effort last night, not a poor performer on the ground. The only changes to be made should be forced through injury. Reward for effort. We were at the game, got home watched it on Foxtel, and watching it again now. We are happy. We are Essendon.

- Rick Lee (posted 31/07/2010 12:45:26 PM)

By the way, love the new chant by our cheer squad. We are Essendon, WeAre Essendon!!!

- Rick Lee (posted 31/07/2010 12:49:00 PM)

Fantastic coaching by Knights you employed a defensive plan and it worked beautifully, in the second quarter they came at us and you guys were calm and in control, made it look easy, well done. So many played so well, Hille, Ryder, Stanton-good move Knighta!, Dempsey-classy, Houli-amazing me! so improved, Reimers-improving steadily, Davey, Hurley improving so much each week, Hooker-who woke up the giant? Lonergan great 50th! Monfries, McVeigh and all the rest all great! Love you Bombers!!

- JAN STOTT (posted 31/07/2010 12:53:03 PM)

A good win. Prbly shud've won by more but the players seemed a little exhausted in the end. Maybe should've dropped and extra player back in defence. But still a wins a win.

- Haitham Choudhry (posted 31/07/2010 12:57:36 PM)

Essendon insider the future always looked bright on the playing side of things , it's the 4 to 6 changes every week and the lack of confidence that was the problem and Knights coaching at times that was the killer.Lets finish the season off and build something for 2011.

- PETER DAVIES (posted 31/07/2010 12:59:38 PM)

Great win; with Houli doing a Hardingham this week. Fletcher – a legend. But also a superb team effort. Interestingly, 29 out of 29 Herald-Sun tipsters tipped St. Kilda to win….and so did I. So kudos to the believers. (Wasn’t it great to see Riewoldt smash his drink into the ground in frustration?) What’s happening here though? IMO, finally some of the RIGHT PLAYERS are selected, and others are played in positions more suited to their ability. Why did this not happen earlier, coach? Don’t kid yourselves though, basic mistakes were still made, and the Saints clearly had an “off day.” Still I agree; the future looks brighter.

- Klaus Erbgut (posted 31/07/2010 1:02:02 PM)

Whoops, how could I forget Fletcher he was sensational, that dive? what was he thinking? brilliant! Fletch, Hooker & Hurls looked like the ring leaders in a circus and the saints were the clowns! Well done to Watson great effort keeps improving, Hocking, Colyer, Zaha, Hardingham, Howlett, Prismall and my mate Neagle Jay Jay!!! Love his aggro, man on a mission, check out his eyes, fantastic goal from the boundary, suberb! Bad luck to Gumbleton you did well, very courageous! Get well soon!

- JAN STOTT (posted 31/07/2010 1:02:30 PM)

great team effort for a change, i cant think of anyone who didn't contribute,tyson slattery should come in for injured gumby and should anyone be dropped for winders? if so who,don't bring in slow players like welsh and henry as they will only slow us down, cheers briggsy

- Samantha Briggs (posted 31/07/2010 1:08:03 PM)

Great improvements in our marking department, we are now moving and leading into space and providing options for our team mates, so much easier when we make space for each other. Our kicking skills have improved dramatically, handball skills also. Backing each other up, supporting each other with one two's, dare I say three fours! Makes for a terrific football TEAM! And terrific to watch :)

- JAN STOTT (posted 31/07/2010 1:09:41 PM)

Fletcher for Brownlow. - Ahhh cripes, I forgot - he is a full-back.

- Klaus Erbgut (posted 31/07/2010 1:15:25 PM)

hey insider let the davo and ivar knockers know you dont post our views

- Dave Davo (posted 31/07/2010 1:16:45 PM)

Try and keep playing this team as the more they play the more confident they get. StKilda can think themselves lucky if we had not overdone the handballs late in the 3rd and final qtr we would have won by 12 goals,one handball too many let them in for the softest goals but that will hopefully be sorted out before Carlton.

- Rod Hooker (posted 31/07/2010 1:39:42 PM)

Rick, it was great to hear the cheersquad singing a new chant that may just catch on. They certainly made themselves heard last night. I will pass on your comments.

- Essendon Insider (posted 31/07/2010 1:42:31 PM)

So now Ivar turns on the crowd attendances. Seriously Ivar, it's a bit sad...

- Johnny Utah (posted 31/07/2010 1:50:23 PM)

I think that Stant's has found his place in this emerging side, Making him accountable as a backman while using his run has been important to the much improved defensive effort in the past 2 weeks. Fantastic effort! Hurls, Cale, Fletch with Tayte, Stants and Courtney running off HB in 2011 will be awesome.

- Rodney Hicks (posted 31/07/2010 1:52:12 PM)

No wonder Davo when they're so damn negative. Shut the door on the way out there's a good feller! A TOP win with absolute commitment and courage by the WHOLE side, and the coaches matchups deserve a whole heap of credit. Now to bury Carlton, and show Collingwood & the rest of the AFL that this was no fluke.

- Graeme Blore (posted 31/07/2010 1:59:24 PM)

Hey Dave and Ivar, your views dont dont get posted because you dont support Essendon!!!!!

- Scott Polden (posted 31/07/2010 2:03:20 PM)

Ivar - are you somehow blaming the small crowd last night to Matthew Knights?? He has a vision, and some can see it, allow him some time to get rid of the "INEPTITUDE" that was left behind by Kevin Sheedy. I love Sheeds, but what he did at the end of his 'marvellous' stint was simply selfish, and now he wants to throw some jibes in when we lose. Thanks for your time Sheeds, but move on and take Ivar with you.

- Grant Flack (posted 31/07/2010 2:05:06 PM)

Come on Bomber fans let's leave Ivar and Dave alone. While they are always critical and negative, they have the right to their opinions - even if most of us disagree. I will monitor any abuse or inappropriate content. I'm sure they simply thrive on your comments and love the attention.

- Essendon Insider (posted 31/07/2010 2:15:01 PM)

I have always coached my kids to give 100% effort, 100% commitment, 100% teamwork, 100% belief, 100% courage and 100% use of their skills...the scoreboard will look after itself. I think I witnessed that last night. Also, EI, thanks for reminding us that we have age on our side...a blessing, not a curse. Some teams reaching the end of their window would actually envy our list.

- Wesley Hull (posted 31/07/2010 2:18:43 PM)

Reimers and Neagle out? Sorry – don’t agree.Reimers’ clanger (against the post) would have been applauded as brilliant, had it come off. (I am sure he learned a lesson.) What was wrong with him otherwise? Neagle has all the goods, but seems a slow learner. He kicked a sharp goal. Will improve steadily with exposure to the pace of the Firsts. Need to give him some latitude here…..

- Klaus Erbgut (posted 31/07/2010 2:18:53 PM)

Reimers and Neagle out? Sorry – don’t agree.Reimers’ clanger (against the post) would have been applauded as brilliant, had it come off. (I am sure he learned a lesson.) What was wrong with him otherwise? Neagle has all the goods, but seems a slow learner. He kicked a sharp goal. Will improve steadily with exposure to the pace of the Firsts. Need to give him some latitude here…..

- Klaus Erbgut (posted 31/07/2010 2:34:17 PM)

Bill you didn't tell us you are from "Oklahoma!"..oh..the song is..oh well that's "ok" he he.. Besides the team achieving again as close to the Coaches' game plan (and vision) as they have all year,it was also rewarding imo to understand a little better some finer things… why players were previously dropped,and other's had long stints back with the BB's….first year players' fitness had to reach the required level of acceptance to be able to survive/see out a game.. and form/skill levels must be always on the improve,to do that GP justice..end pt 1..

- Noel Shields (posted 31/07/2010 2:35:40 PM)

i would love to see this forum if we ever make it into the top 4

- Dave Davo (posted 31/07/2010 2:36:05 PM)

.. ctd pt 2.. Settling the side down,team spirit,supporting and backing each other up, all MIGHTY important as well.. The improvement in confidence,dedication,focus,skills,fitness and fine tuned decision making in players (since they have returned) like Houli,Prismall,Dempsey,Neagle,Colyer,Howlett,Davey,Hardingham has been noted by some of us who don't question every decision from the lip,and try and observe the game (where two combatants compete) with both eyes open.. not easy when "one" starts out one eyed,and 40 years younger..he he.. :-)

- Noel Shields (posted 31/07/2010 2:36:49 PM)

Finale..pt 3..The improved fitness and form of Reimers/Gumby(sadly injured)/Hurley(magnificent return to F&F after his necessary Club sanctions) / Sammy Lonners/David Zaha… makes the world of difference as well as the return from injury of Angus & Big Dave,which allowed Paddy last night to play with more freedom and finesse,and the repositioning of Spike and Stants in the side,the Coaching panel should take credit for as well.. And then there is Jobe and Fletch.. look at the pic.. Worth a thousand words.. Admiration and love shown by the Skipper towards his magnificent team mate, Club Champion,Legend AND Inspiration… Well Done you Mighty Bombers,and WELL DONE to all the ones who have never slackened off with their support..

- Noel Shields (posted 31/07/2010 2:39:50 PM)

Yeah why kick reimers and jay out? Reimers has been good, and jay does good things with the footy and chases and tackles, pretty good for kids! Fantastic side at the moment, I wouldn't be changing much at all. Licka in for gumby?

- David Greven (posted 31/07/2010 2:50:15 PM)

Klaus, I think I should leave my response for later in the week. :) I made a mistake writing what I did in a thread which should be dedicated to celebrating a fabulous Essendon victory. But thanks for the civil reply.... Bomber fans. We are one, but we are many.

- jennifer herrald (posted 31/07/2010 2:54:06 PM)

Brilliant control of the ball plus team work, defence totally on top of their game, impressive game Bombers well done keep it up. Bring on next season fingers crossed with minimal injuries....Go BOMBERS

- Wayne Mitchell (posted 31/07/2010 2:56:56 PM)

You can't say enough good things about Fletcher- our most valuavle player at 35yr -still chases down opponents 15 yrs younger than him!Whenever he doesn't play our defence is 5-7 goals worse without him. Superb last night and will finish top 5 in our B&F and he has missed 5 games!Love him down there with Hurley, Hooker and Pears he just calms down everyone in the defence as he is never flustered! I would take him over Scarlett any day of the week!Keep going Gadgetman! We need you to stay there and teach this young defense how to become the tightest in the league,then the gameplan might work!

- Mark Brooker (posted 31/07/2010 3:00:27 PM)

Dianna lets get Knights to name these people because other people opinion outside this great club dont count and again great game by all Bombers from a fan of 51 years

- Neil Missen (posted 31/07/2010 3:00:47 PM)

We engage in a discourse that is subject to the interpretive work of ‘supporters’? We animate such continuing discourse by imparting our own meaning. In fact, ‘supporters’ like “Ivar” or “Dave”, and other ‘supporters’, negative, so-called, by the “Faithful”, add relevance, validity and significance to our continuing conversations (as reference to their absence invites a return to the fold). For this reason there is a world of difference between shared grammatic-cum-pradigmatic competency on the one hand and a shared mutual comprehension on the other. However, such discourse is necessary in the cyclical ‘giddy’ world of the Essendon Forum. We need such diversity and need to appreciate it for what it is…?

- David Husk (posted 31/07/2010 3:04:32 PM)

The 'posters' on The Forum focus on what is known as an 'Internal Monologue'. Maintaining positive thoughts during competition by keeping a running conversation going in one's mind, these conversations are self validating. I think some of the Essendonians have very short, selective memories. We have a long way to go!

- David Husk (posted 31/07/2010 3:14:03 PM)

Lets hope the CHANT!! is as loud as it can be next week when we smash the blues. Good job cheer squad..Carlisle played well today for Bendigo so maybe he could be a good replacement for Gumby??

- Chris Maher (posted 31/07/2010 3:30:33 PM)

1.Yes we have a long way to go, but I sure hope we can get there.2. Ivar and Dave are part of the fabric of the Red & Black.3. EI, I almost thought you were refering to me!

- David Husk (posted 31/07/2010 3:39:18 PM)

@ jennifer last week when i said drop neagle you had a go at me now ur saying drop him???? make up your mind aye

- Cohlby Giblett (posted 31/07/2010 3:55:34 PM)

Lets hope the CHANT!! is as loud as it can be next week when we smash the blues. Good job cheer squad..Carlisle played well today for Bendigo so maybe he could be a good replacement for Gumby??

- Chris Maher (posted 31/07/2010 3:56:52 PM)

Jetta, Winderlich, H Slattery, Myers, Atkinson, Welsh, Dyson, T Slattery, Melksham? Not my suggested "ins", rather 9 players who can also play seniors. I think we're building depth!!?? And I won't count Williams in that lot either. P.S. Better effort by Neagle, but I still wonder if he will make it.

- Peter Podgornik (posted 31/07/2010 4:01:08 PM)

It's so good to finally have Houli playing again. The Stanton baggers are quiet. All is well.

- Rob Carew (posted 31/07/2010 4:38:59 PM)

great win best of the season but unless we can beat bottom sides and win interstate we will always be middle of the road lets hope this improves next year and for the rest of the season

- Norman Barr (posted 31/07/2010 4:55:34 PM)

Neagle is moving much better now that he's lost weight, and he had numerous occasions last night where his efforts were repeated which was encouraging. We just need to get the delivery to him cherry ripe because he's got glue mits and a gun kick!

- Duncan Eastey (posted 31/07/2010 5:23:10 PM)

Well done to Hurley and Hooker, both played close to their best games for the club. Colyer needs a few more years but could be a very good player. Fletch hope you play another couple of seasons at least!

- Simon Remington (posted 31/07/2010 5:33:05 PM)

Great to see Jay Neagle making a contribution. I think he shows a lot of natural talent and with work and persistence will become a real player for us down the track. Well done, Jay, and let's do the same to Carlton next week.

- Ron Leonard (posted 31/07/2010 5:41:09 PM)

Loving the EI sticking up for the Ivarnt and the Devo Devo. Bit of tongue in cheek work there I reckon....... Knights said a few weeks ago that the rest of the yr was about putting some respect back into the Essendon jumper and they sure are doing their best to make it happen!!!

- Rowan Hall (posted 31/07/2010 6:14:23 PM)

Great win by the bombers! Welsh, Winderlich and Lovett-Murray should come in this week because they played well at Bendigo. Lets hope we can smash those blues!!!!

- Matt Ellis (posted 31/07/2010 6:21:50 PM)

Bruce, apologies that your post was not published this morning. We lost 8 comments after a technical issue - I should have mentioned it earlier. I'm sure you understand why I did not publish your follow up comment this afternoon.

- Essendon Insider (posted 31/07/2010 6:38:45 PM)

I think that from now on Hurley, Hooker, Howlett, Hardingham, Houli, Hille and Hocking should be known as "the H-Bombs"

- Steve Craven (posted 31/07/2010 7:02:20 PM)

Brilliant effort credit were due from coaches down to boot studder.What a difference having Hille presence on the ground top job from the defenders.Must disagree with comments about Neagle have you noticed the way he takes a good defender away from the scoring zone more to his game.Love the way Reimers will have a shot at goalfrom anywhere not looking to pass it off backs himself evertime gotta love that.

- sheryl laird (posted 31/07/2010 7:03:27 PM)

Just repeating what i have commented in the past we have the best young list in the league.Are the dooms dayers starting to see that yet?

- sheryl laird (posted 31/07/2010 7:06:26 PM)

Cohlby, I couldn't 'see' Neagle last week because I could only hear the match on the radio, therefore I was not in a position to get a real sense of his performance on the ground. Perhaps I expressed concern about the phrasing of your criticism... Let's discuss the merit of Neagle in a more appropriate thread and save this one for celebration. :)

- jennifer herrald (posted 31/07/2010 7:14:13 PM)

Sheryl, one person's "Backs himself" is another one's, "Up himself". Lol.

- jennifer herrald (posted 31/07/2010 7:20:17 PM)

Ivar, once again, that`s your loss not ours. Well said Ess insider, the future looks bright at Bomberland.

- Cory Williams (posted 31/07/2010 7:33:59 PM)

Sheryl, I don't mind a bit of Bomber razzle dazzle as long as a man doesn't try to play beyond his capability. Football is a team sport and a player should only ever steal the show inadvertently.

- jennifer herrald (posted 31/07/2010 7:42:04 PM)

I love reading these joyful, positive posts; to feel the smiles on all your faces through the words. Remember these moments when the lows come. Remember how well the boys played and how well the coaches led the way. Hero to zero and back again, these same people give us their best each week. Sometimes, their best is not good enough to set the world on fire, but it's the best they have to give on the day. That's all we can ask for. Go Bombers in 2010!Don't just shape the 8, make the 8! :)

- Angeline Baron (posted 31/07/2010 9:36:27 PM)

fantastic match with a fantastic squad dont try and back up knights on this forum and say critics should lay off because the pressure mounted on him which FORCED him to bring in players like houli howlett prismall who all played fantastic hurley and hooker looked superb in defence with gumbleton hurley & hardingham looking great up front. great signs for the future

- amir fahmi (posted 31/07/2010 9:53:08 PM)

Dennis Green do go to the footy,yr comments re Stanton that he has been a gun his whole career are outrageous,he is a turn over king,look at last weeks game against the roos... I will say i was very proud of him friday night playing deep in the backline,hope you keep them standards up Stants..

- Peter Damyon (posted 31/07/2010 10:40:07 PM)

A great win Bombers! Stanton with his socks down(rebounding out of the backlines-loved it)Houli and that slick left foot kick and great balance.Fletcher,Hurley,Watson,Monfries, Howlett,Ryder and Hille were just superb-the whole team played superbly for that matter.EVERY player played his role and were also very well coached.They didnt let the Saints in at any stage and backed each other all over the ground.It was Essendons spirit that returned-thankyou for believing in yourselves-Ive never stopped believing in you.

- Leon Tyrrell (posted 31/07/2010 11:00:15 PM)

LETS GET REAL THIS TIME OF THE SEASON IS JUNK TIME THE PRESSURE IS NOW OFF

- Dave Davo (posted 31/07/2010 11:03:33 PM)

It has been over 24 hours since the Bomber's wonderful victory, so I think it’s times we all moved on to more serious Essendon subjects. I think you'll know what I'm talking about when I mention the name Michael 'Hillbilly' Hurley. I've got three words for you, "feral facial fluff". All this young man needs is a corn cob pipe, a length of string to hold his football shorts up and a banjo to complete the look. When it comes to players expressing their individuality, it is one extreme to another over at Windy Hill. First there was Reimers’ designer boots and now we’ve got Hurley sporting yokel whiskers.

- jennifer herrald (posted 31/07/2010 11:21:02 PM)

Team selection the best all year and the game was best ive seen in ten years. I went to the game and the played brilliantly. Shades of 93 premiership side. Speed, skill aggression and passion. Proud to be a bomber again.

- Troy Watchorn (posted 31/07/2010 11:53:38 PM)

Houli outstanding. Bachar reminds me of Gary O'Donnell...rarely wastes a disposal. Great efforts from Howlett and Pris too. Shame about Gumby. Improve your running ability and build up your upper body just a little Scotty as we need you to be our lead up "Richo" type forward for the next 5 years or more. Don't slack off now boys... keep the pressure on and tackle hard and you will own the Blues. Play for pride and the privlege of wearing the RED AND BLACK! EI is Rama doing any book signings?

- Brent May (posted 31/07/2010 11:55:27 PM)

To many armchair critics on this site, I believe most people who comment on players like Neagle and Reimers dont attend games that often and is sucked in by radio and the TV commentators. Look at Reimers pyhsical presence, was in the face of Montanga all night, we have no hard bodies and he would be the first to fly the flag for the red and black. Neagles efforts can not be questioned, on TV it looks clumsy but at the ground he does have a hard work rate, when Gumby was down Neagle put up his hand and become the lead up player. To many "negative" supporters and not many who have actually played the game!

- Malcolm Milgate (posted 31/07/2010 11:59:26 PM)

Cohlby, I recall many people laughing at my call all year for Neagle to come in, and you're still laughing how strange? A smart player, reads the play, in the right place at the right time, good senses, a great mark, kick, lead, aggression, clever assists, kicked 2 goals tonight is second behind Hardingham on goal average, made a couple disposal blues but he is no orphan is he? He fully deserves a chance to establish himself this time in (to Jen). Hardly anyone saw Hardingham play how could we knock? I don't recall people knocking Howlett, and Houli had bad disposal habits and has improved his game vastly and is now back.

- JAN STOTT (posted 1/08/2010 12:36:31 AM)

Sheryl,I also love the way Reimers takes the game on and hope he never loses his flair.He is so exciting to watch.Neagle has such a strong pair of hands.That goal he kicked from the boundry,didnt think he would kick it.A great week,essedon and bendigo won and carlton lost.Yeah!.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 1/08/2010 12:42:57 AM)

Only four more games as an Essendon member Ivar! Gee, that's really sad. Hope Carlton welcome you back! Drop Neagle & Reimers! don't think so. Loved your Knock, Knock joke Litchy! Go Bombers! Rob Box

- Robert Box (posted 1/08/2010 12:47:42 AM)

great win by our boys...fantastic..neagle slowly but surely..pity bout gumby...fletcher magnificent...monfries great game and so on,great team effort...great to have DAVID HILLE back,its amazing how much better we play when hes in...keep it up...well done knights..stick to your guns and hope the team listens to your plans..just dont change a winning formula!!!..bring on the blues!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

- Marco Pietrangeli (posted 1/08/2010 12:59:56 AM)

Please leave Lonergan in the centre, he is an absolute gun there! Wanted that since he first started. Try Neagle at CHF and Hardingham FF.

- JAN STOTT (posted 1/08/2010 1:38:13 AM)

"Stanton please don't go, Stanton please don't go! Stanton please DON'T go up to Gold Coast please - you know I love you so, Stanton please don't go!!!" (Van Morrison) Brent your kicking was so powerful and accurate on Friday night, a fantastic move whoever's idea that was, and why weren't you tried there all these past years? You're usually here there and everywhere and even a bit Friday night, problem is you are just too versatile and have been used as a Mr Fixit. But now you're settled WOW! DON'T GO ANYWHERE!

- JAN STOTT (posted 1/08/2010 1:59:35 AM)

EI,re your comment "I'm sure they simply thrive on your comments and love the attention".. imo i don't think they are thriving on anything,and loving much about the Bombers at all,and that is their problem.. "They'll" get sick of this site before we do.. :-) Cheers.

- Noel Shields (posted 1/08/2010 5:25:24 AM)

I think Knights now needs to realise that this team plus Winda, Pears, NLM, Melksham and Myers are our best 27. There should be a commitment to stick with this group and only look outside if there are injuries. They need to start settling a "best 22" for next season now.

- Andrew Charlton (posted 1/08/2010 8:55:28 AM)

Speaking of end of season, I've just done the ladder predictor and ours is not over yet. If we can knock off Carlton and Brisbane (should win both), then we only need to win one of the Coll/Doggies games for a 10/12 season, which if results can go our way could be enough to sneak into 8th again this year. Either way, with the draw we've had, the same win/loss as last season needs to be looked at as a positive. Something to aim for out of this season.

- Andrew Charlton (posted 1/08/2010 8:58:23 AM)

The Knights squad are crowing now. While I have been critical (especially of his selections), I am not convinced after two wins. IMO, he got lucky with injuries to Welsh, H. Slattery and Dyson forcing changes. What he needs to see now is that these guys are NOT our future, it is the younger more talented boys who played last night who are. Those previous three should be lucky to maintain their place on our list at the end of the year.

- Andrew Charlton (posted 1/08/2010 9:15:23 AM)

Two wins in a row does a lot to making a team appear more settled. Coyler and Howlett have had such influence in this regard. They are smart, quick and hard working. I would love to see Melksham in the side as well but perhaps the coaches deem it not the right time. So we look steadier in the mid-field, what next? Well its time to trim the dead wood. Welsh, lovely bloke but finished, in terms of replacing the youngsters I mentioned above. Same with Slattery and Dyson. Sorry fellas but we want to move forward and I don't think your a part of that mix.

- Joel Alexis (posted 1/08/2010 9:45:39 AM)

Let's ban the cheer squad chant ending "ooi ooi ooi" it is an embarrassment to the club and most annoying

- Michael Deckker (posted 1/08/2010 9:47:16 AM)

hey davo dont worry mate with our young team wi'll definetely make the top 4 in about the next year or so, but at the moment not that i want to put pressure on the team but i reckon we can make the 8 for sure!!!!!!!!!! go bomberzzzzzzzzzzzz

- Andy Toma (posted 1/08/2010 9:49:07 AM)

Wayne Carey, said something interesting on radio yesterday. The year wa 96, Wayne was in front of all the awards mid season. Pagan took him into his office and said if you believe all this hype your kidding yourself. I would apply the same framework to Stanton, Dempsey and Prismall. I want you in the side and I think you can all play. But its time you woke up. At times all 3 of you stand far too removed from your opponents and it costs us. Dempsey in particular lets his man get goal side far too often. Sometimes he look downright lost. I encourage supporters to forget the stat sheet and look at all 3 players closely in coming weeks.

- Joel Alexis (posted 1/08/2010 9:58:50 AM)

surely any reasoned person would have to judge the season on its entirity ,so unless we win all 4 remaining games the season will have to be seen as a disappointment and a backward step.results like friday nights must be treated as a flash in the pan until they become regular results.likewise the melb,eagles,crows,dockers,pies and cats performances must be viewed as the real state of our club until they are irregular results.

- Mark Barbara (posted 1/08/2010 10:01:02 AM)

I think it's safe to say we have the best ruck combination in the league.

- Jay Andrew (posted 1/08/2010 10:40:34 AM)

Malcolm M, I watch all games from Perth and I have no trouble seeing the talent of Neagle and Reimers. I have only played 1 game mind you. I have followed Reimers closely as he looked like being a great talent, then he suffered some injuries and never seemed to regain that spark he had for games this year. When he returned a few weeks ago I still thought he was treading water, but the next week WOW he has improved dramatically, credit to him and the coaches. His efforts were absolutely terrific, I would say Houli's story very similar. Reimers was so pumped when he came out onto the ground on Friday, love to see it, even from my TV!

- JAN STOTT (posted 1/08/2010 12:45:43 PM)

Andrew Charlton, a voice in the wilderness. We hear you and thank you. The most "positive" comments from one of the "true supporters" on this thread...nudge, nudge, wink, wink, say no more!!!

- David Husk (posted 1/08/2010 12:49:53 PM)

Cheers EI, I DO appreciate your comments - thank you &, understand why the follow up comment wasnt posted :-))Keep the team the same, they seem to have gelded well and finally appear to be playing for each other. Look out all you finals aspirants for 2010 and roll on 2011....

- Bruce Douglas (posted 1/08/2010 1:10:47 PM)

Great post in the mailbox Angeline! You summed it up beautifully.

- JAN STOTT (posted 1/08/2010 2:27:55 PM)

Malcolm very true with you post.Sitting in the crowd we see so much more.Sitting at home,you only get to see what the tv stations want you to see.Neagle did so much more running around than what you would be able to see on tv,let olone hear it on the radio.Jay,like pure magic watching Ryder and Hille.Hurley has such a great footy brain.Wonder if D Commetti came up with the H players in a split second while commentating,or did he actually research for that piece of info.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 1/08/2010 3:03:31 PM)

well done to everybody ,a great victory.we now have to replace gumby & this may effect our structure as we have only paddy to play at c/h/f,if we want to keep our defence the same.I noticed a young bloke with bendigo, so do we play this young guy & leave paddy/hille in the ruck & take the view that four games to this kid will be games well spent

- jim young (posted 1/08/2010 4:54:24 PM)

EXCELLENT team effort, Bomber Boys! If we can play like that for the remainder of the season, it would be FANTASTIC!! Please keep Bachar Houli IN THE SIDE!!

- Sue ONeill (posted 1/08/2010 5:41:11 PM)

Bloody hell...Hurley can play, can't he...to hear a compliment from Tom Harley that "Hurley makes great defensive decisions" only goes to show that the boy CAN play...but, really - what a great overall team effort - bring it home, Bombers - there's an outfit up Royal Pde way who need fixin' up - and we are just the blokes to do it...!

- Danny Harris (posted 1/08/2010 6:51:31 PM)

Jennifer, there is no way Neagle and Reimers will be dropped. What for? Good win by Bendigo too by the way!

- Davor Stanic (posted 1/08/2010 7:20:11 PM)

absolutely correct malcolm. the effort Neagle puts in is outstanding, and Reimers is just pure class...and i for one am glad that he knows it. love his boots, especially the orange ones he use to wear. As for the one person bagging Hurley's appearance...unbelievable...stop picking on the boy from the north!

- Davor Stanic (posted 1/08/2010 7:43:45 PM)

we must bamboozal pies n blues with our awesome We are Essendon, We are Essendon chant in the next two weeks! Terrific that it is finally starting to get some air time...

- Davor Stanic (posted 1/08/2010 7:51:40 PM)

I hope everyone at the club rallies around Hurley as he had a tough start to the season and put in the best performance of his career. Super Effort Hurls!

- Daniel Milford (posted 1/08/2010 8:32:22 PM)

Peter, I didn't say Stanton was a "gun" at all. Think I said 'classy player', or similar... Look mate, if you've been one of the many who've stuck the boots into Brent in the past but wish to review your view, so to speak, then that's fine by me! Ho! Yeah, it's all just a matter of opinion when it's all said & done...

- Dennis Green (posted 2/08/2010 12:00:25 AM)

Reimers needs to become more of a team player. His dare outweighs his flair. Metaphorically speaking, Kyle has a tendency to play like a millionaire but has the football skills of the average wage earner. Whilst it is important to develop the 'mongrel' trait in our men, this must be combined with discipline. Furthermore, innovative boldness must be tempered by an active awareness of one's capabilities and limitations. Discuss.

- jennifer herrald (posted 2/08/2010 10:22:28 AM)

GET THE CHEQUE BOOK OUT GUYS AND KEEP HOULI!!!! DONT LET HIM GET AWAY, He should have been playing all year!

- Marc Atkins (posted 2/08/2010 10:32:29 AM)

Neagle lacks intensity and verve. He exudes an air of listlessness as opposed to keen energy. Jay's best asset is his ball kicking skills. He lacks pace and self generated inspiration. When Pears returns to the Bombers in 2011, and if this results in Hurley being moved up the ground to the forward line, Neagle will struggle to maintain his spot if he doesn't work on his fitness and show further improvement. Discuss.

- jennifer herrald (posted 2/08/2010 10:34:19 AM)

Yep good call Malcolm Milgate; another point worth noting is that there was only 37,000 at the game. Not enough loyalty being shown here Bomber fans, especially against a top four side we have now beaten three times in a row. Support is more important during times when the side is down.

- Andrew Christie (posted 2/08/2010 10:39:35 AM)

Andrew Charlton – great posts (all three) and couldn’t agree more. I too have been critical of Knights, and considering that it took him until round 18 to put on the park and play in positions what most likely is our best team, that was not an unreasonable view, period. Reimers, Houli and Hardingham (and others) should have played much earlier and far more regularly. OK then; that’s easy to say with HINDSIGHT. But isn’t that why HE is the coach with a pay packet many times over than mine? It is FORESIGHT that sets apart good coaches from the rest. So this time, salutations to you, coach…..now for round 19.

- Klaus Erbgut (posted 2/08/2010 10:55:58 AM)

GET THE CHEQUE BOOK OUT GUYS AND KEEP HOULI!!!! DONT LET HIM GET AWAY, He should have been playing all year!

- Marc Atkins (posted 2/08/2010 11:02:51 AM)

Ahh how quick some change their minds. It was a good win and congrats to the guys but it is still the same game plan. We are trying to copy Geelong and it wont work. Teams have learnt how to counter that style of play and by the time we master it the style will be dead. We had some luck and StKilda were very poor. Yes we have had two wins which should save us from the spoon spanking but i am still not convinced Knights should stay.

- Paul Diprose (posted 2/08/2010 12:30:18 PM)

Can someone shed the truth on what the hell went on at the club during late June to late July????? The Essendon & Bendigo teams were going well both in the top 8 then all of a sudden BANG!!! Both sides were crashing badly! Terrible performances, no heart, no idea and NOW!! Both teams are playing great football again showing huge potential! Where did it all go wrong and why???? bendigo will probably play finals and essendon could have been!!!! I'm frustrated & disappointed!

- Harry Calaghan (posted 2/08/2010 12:56:32 PM)

Much truth in what you are saying, Jennifer, but in my view it does not warrant “Out”. Flair (Reimers) is not a deficiency. There are a few dozen others in the AFL who had or are “trying” to have it. (Lloyd had it, Lovett had it.) It was only half the width of a goal post that failed KR on Friday. Sure, at only 21, he’s still got much to learn. I’d say though HE HAS THE POTENTIAL and will learn better and quicker in the Firsts than at the BBs.

- Klaus Erbgut (posted 2/08/2010 1:04:29 PM)

As to Neagle’s intensity and verve, I thought we saw a much improved player last game. We even saw second efforts. He has a solid body and good hands. He can kick straight. At 22, he needs to play around (and against) the top guys to hone his skills. I would hope his coach is aware of his current shortcomings and they are working on these. (Should help a lot that we basically agree and have just told him so, right Jennifer?) I would like to see him in the team for a solid run of games, before anyone can judge his true limitations and value to us.

- Klaus Erbgut (posted 2/08/2010 1:06:23 PM)

To Bruce Douglas..are you suggesting our boys lacked balls, or was "gelded" meant to be "gelled"?

- David Denby (posted 2/08/2010 1:09:10 PM)

where my comment? it was not abusive. I just wanna make sure a farewell event is organised for Ivar at his last game in 4 weeks.

- BOB DAVIES (posted 2/08/2010 1:16:00 PM)

HEY NOEL. what did you think of houli game eh eh? b.o.g. eh eh? apology accepted - after you say I know nothing when I keep calling for houli inclusion. GO BOMBERS. BUILDING!!

- BOB DAVIES (posted 2/08/2010 1:18:37 PM)

Completely agree with Jennifer, i am damn sure Neagle doesn't play with any of the fight our other young players have been displaying of recent, we need someone with pure passion for the game, he has an oppurtunity, and decent skills, either he gets motivated, earns his spot or someone with a bigger fire in the belly should be brought in. I hate watching him play when there are so many other young guns fighting for a go !

- daniel stubbs (posted 2/08/2010 1:27:00 PM)

HURLEY DID WELL IN DEFENCE , THAT SHOULD BE HIS SPOT ' FULLTIME... WELL DONE FLETCH , AND HOULI' GOOD GAME .. WHY DID IT TAKE KNIGHTS & CO.. TO WORK OUT THAT HOULI IS A EXCELLENT PLAYER, AND SHOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN DROPPED AT ALL' KEEP HOULI AT BOMBERLAND ,AND DON'T LET HIM GO OFF TO G.W.S NEXT SEASON ....

- Darren Pigott (posted 2/08/2010 2:26:50 PM)

Neagle has produced results, how can you be dissatisfied? Laughable! The whole team played well, Hille & Ryder were excellent. We have had trouble mid year in our defence caused by instability, suspensions, injury and slow recovery of form returning from injury. Apart from Hurley, Fletch, Stanton & McVeigh working solidly in the backline. I would say it was Hooker's long awaited return to form and then some that made the big difference down there. The pressure was on him and he stepped up big time. He is getting to the ball and taking command down there. Overall everyone played well, they have obviously been practising their skills and team play. Quick and slick!

- JAN STOTT (posted 2/08/2010 3:31:37 PM)

There'll be no unnecessary apologies made when you continue to misread/misquote/misunderstand BOB,while trying to create another of your uplifting contributions to our forums.. In the newer Houli Interview forum,due credit was given to Bachar for his game,and his honesty as to why he thought he took so long to get another opportunity.. Back to the "apology",you have accepted your own apology,i can live with that :-)

- Noel Shields (posted 2/08/2010 3:43:27 PM)

Klaus, you're probably right. 'Out' is arguably too harsh an outcome for Reimers and Neagle. I'm aware that we need to keep building up individual player confidence by demonstrating consistent faith in their ability, and sometimes a few words of advice can be more effective than taking drastic action. We also need to promote team cohesion and effective functioning by maintaining core stability and encouraging familiarity. Given the Windy Hill gang is still smarting from a succession of beatings, and an optimum group dynamic has been undermined by a season of 'chop and change' selection decisions, I can see the merit of keeping meddling to a minimum when the going is freshly good. :)

- jennifer herrald (posted 2/08/2010 5:00:01 PM)

Be fair to Jay Neagle. His work rate has improved compared to what it used to be. He still has a long way to go, but there are some encouraging factors there.

- Andrew Bearpark (posted 2/08/2010 5:03:24 PM)

Agree with you Klaus,Neagle is improving each game.Has strong hands,leads well and is a pretty accurate kick.He hasnt played 50 games.Geeze,he hasnt even played 30 games.Didnt look to listless to me against the saints.Give hime time to build up his confidence.Looked motivated to me friday.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 2/08/2010 6:06:16 PM)

Is it just me, or has the inclusion of another tall (Hardingham) instead of another small (Jetta) tended to straighten us up a bit?

- Trevor Watts (posted 2/08/2010 11:13:33 PM)

Hurley is just staring to play with a bit of self belief, and the whole comp ought to be very afraid indeed! The manner in which he controlled Koschitzke was as complete and error free a performance from a young key backman as I've seen all year...

- Dennis Green (posted 3/08/2010 12:02:29 AM)

I don't know whats worse being a Bomber fan or a St Kilda fan?? How can a top 4 side play so bad continually against a bottom 4 side??? That was the worst performance by a St Kilda side in years, defiantly the worst under Ross Lyons!!! Oh how the mighty have fallen!!!

- Ray Brough (posted 3/08/2010 12:20:08 PM)

Trevor, I think there's also the issue that when Jetta first arrived on the scene from the VFL earlier this season he played some gutsy and exciting football, however for some reason he couldn't maintain this dynamic and effective level of performance and has recently played a few unremarkable games. It would be great if we had a Milne or a Betts on the Essendon team. A small forward and sneaky crumber with the audacity, skills and pace to play innovative football, and the talent to create opportunities to compliment superior goal kicking abilities.

- jennifer herrald (posted 3/08/2010 6:35:07 PM)

"Even if Jay fails to perform well,I will not regret the decision to give him another chance at afl level.Jay symbolises EFC tradition and family and may bring to the side some much needed heart"written by Jennifer 6/7.Wonder what has changed in a couple of games.Considering,I think Neagle has improved since the melbourne game.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 3/08/2010 10:21:28 PM)

Jay Neagle has definitely provided plenty of discussion all year. I have always liked him and wish him the best, I am sure all his knockers will be praising him one day, probably when he wins the GF for us. There is no way our supporters couldn't have loved what he did on the weekend with the sliced goal from the pocket, an absolute beauty! Something we should cherish not rubbish! You don't see skills and cool decision making like that exhibited everyday. More fool you if you cannot see the merit of this young man. He is on the road to somewhere!

- JAN STOTT (posted 4/08/2010 11:31:24 PM)

Di, provocative comments gain a reaction but often without accompanying solutions or reasons. There are quite a few contributors with this style on this forum. My critical comments are always related to performance and are constructively based. No focus on appearance or other side issues etc. But I guess some people don't respond to that sensible kind of discussion, they would rather turn things into some kind of drama, each to their own, some people like the '7.30 report' a factually based show and others prefer 'desperate housewives' a high drama show for entertainment. I prefer the former format when it comes to analysing our teams performance.

- JAN STOTT (posted 5/08/2010 1:46:48 PM)

Awesome game to watch, great team effort. Fletch you are a legend. GO BOMBERS Look forward to our game tomorrow night against the blues.

- Marlene Block (posted 5/08/2010 9:44:06 PM)