The All Australian ruckman polled nearly half of the votes (49%) and fans commented that his inclusion in the team would greatly bolster the ruck stocks and also allow David Hille to move into the forwardline at stages of a match. Fans believe that former rookie Courtney Johns’ inclusion in the starting 22 will greatly benefit the team. Johns received 24% of the votes.
The remaining votes were shared between the following people:
- Jason Winderlich in the mid-field – 14%
- Justin Murphy kicking goals – 9%
- Dean Wallis as assistant coach – 4%
What some of the Essendon fans had to say:
Stuart Nixon from Ascot Vale says: Courtney Johns could play full forward with ruckmen Hille and Allan resting in the pocket giving a second target. This could release Matty Lloyd to centre half forward to create havoc. If this comes off Courtney could get the third tallest defender and he is big enough to cause headaches!
Paul Maniatopoulos from Newport says: I believe that a lot of Essendon supporters are underestimating the potential impact the Justin Murphy will have on the EFC. My mates who follow the Bombers have dismissed him as a fringe player. I believe he is a class act, with a penetrating, accurate kick and pace. He is also a proved goal kicker. He always troubled the Bombers when playing for Carlton. I think he is the exact type of player that we need as we have been lacking in goal kicking midfielders who can switch to the forward line. I also believe that Mathew Allen will be a great asset to the club. Together with David Hille, we have the makings of a great ruck combination.
Randell from Sheidow Park says: Matty Allen ability is well known but can he reproduce it is the big question. Courtney Johns is a gun player just waiting for opportunity, but no-one is yet to see it given the little time he has spent on the park. A huge wildcard in the side
Cliff from Minto says: Having Allen in the ruck is a huge bonus. If he can stay fit and play the majority of the season, he will go a long way towards helping us get the Flag. It is reminiscent of both Salmon and Barnes returning to Essendon in that Allen is a very experienced player with a good kick and an All Australian from only a few years ago...His arrival can only help the development of our young ruckmen in the long term and I hope we can see him stay at Essendon for several years at least.
Lee Nield from Benalla says: Dean Wallis is a good acquisition as assistant coach, I believe that he will put a little more mongrel into the boys and make sure that they once again become the HUNTERS instead of the hunted! Go get em Dean!
Jan Walley from Launceston says: Great to have Dean back where he belongs as a Bomber and looking forward to a great season in 2004, hope to get to see one match this year.
This week’s ‘3’ poll asks what was the major highlight to come out of the 3.2km trial this Monday. Click here to cast your vote.
