Collingwood Season Review 2006: Part I

Collingwood Season Review 2006: Part I
By Luke Mason

[b]Player Review:[/b]

[b]Leon Davis:[/b]

Leon has improved this season, no doubt about that. I’ve read a few comments reading trade bait, but I can’t see it happening. He took his game, and fitness, to a new level in 2006, spent more time in the midfield, looked more urgent and seemed to take on a role as something of a team leader. If nothing else, he provides the side with a spark, and, despite his 100 games experience, a taste of the unknown. Add to that, he comes across as something of a Malthouse favourite. I’ve been impressed with his work in 2006, and it represents something of a building block for the coming years.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation for 2007: Play all 22 matches, spending the majority of the game in the midfield.

2006 Rating: 6.5/10

[b]Sean Rusling:[/b]

One of our brighter hopes for the future, it seems that the club and supporters have already earmarked the Ruz as a champion of the future. While it fills us all with optimism, he has only played a handful of matches (I’d say around the 12-13 mark), and he will need time to develop and mature. I just hope the burden of supporters hopes don’t get too much for him.

That said, he looks the goods, and is an excellent kick-mark player, in that his explosive leads from the goal square are difficult to man. His kicking, while the action/grip on the ball are a little unconventional, is generally accurate, and should his self belief rise over the next couple of years, he’ll be well on his way to becoming the full forward we require, and the man to free Chris Tarrant (should he survive the cull) up to a flank.

Most will recall the way Rusling straightened us up against Port Adelaide in round 20 from full forward, scoring three goals and changing the dynamics of the side. It worked for the best part of a half, until a grossly out of form Anthony Rocca was summoned off the bench.

I am a touch concerned with the way he struggled below his knees. Should he spill a grab, that’s it, he is basically out of the contest, and it was glaringly exposed in the capitulation to the Bulldogs in the finals. However, his speed for his size is amazing, and he has caught the opposition off guard on a number of occasions. He now needs to learn that he can do that all the time, and play the role of a larger Aaron Davey in attack.

There is something to work with there, and I’m hoping that the Ruz can actually be used as the bullocking, fierce, no-holds-barred wingman we’ve lacked since the days of Darren Millane. And with confidence and maturity, Rusling can carry out that role. 2007 will give us a big insight into how good he can really be.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation for 2007: Play 15 or more matches, consolidate his place in the senior side, and spend time on the wing, and learn the craft. Keep his shoulders in tact, too.

2006 Rating: 3/10

[b]Ryan Lonie:[/b]

I struggle when it comes to Ryan Lonie, really, I do. I loved him back in 2001-2002, he was a bright spark rising from the ashes of 1998-2000, and his boyish excitement following a line-breaking goal lifted everyone’s spirits, as did his willingness to take on all comers and back himself in, either from the back flank or the wing.

But now? Where is Lonie? Lost in space, really, his attacking instincts somewhat curtailed by Malthouse’s use of him as a key defender in recent times (read: since 2004), and he now appears almost scared to take the opposition on and take the bit between the teeth. It’s sad, because he could have been the real wildcard in the pack.

Pick up the paper after each match, and you will generally see that Lonie has won over 20 touches. A fair effort in anyone’s language.

But are these possessions really effective? Do they do anything big for us? Are they still the long range bombs once joyfully executed back in his first years at the crease?

The harsh reality is that, no, they aren’t. I recall everyone’s frustration at the team, particularly Lonie, in the round 15 deflation against Fremantle at the MCG. We lacked spark all day, and it really came to a head in the latter stages of the third term. We had two options:

a) Go for broke with the margin about 20 points

b) Again retreat into our shells and refused to bite the bullet.

At the coalface of this was Lonie, and his nervous, hesitant chip, chip, chip backwards, sideways, anywhere but forwards. I can understand a newcomer such as Scott Pendlebury doing this, but a senior, 100 game player in Ryan Lonie? No thanks. It smacked of a lack of confidence and conviction, and it hurt the team on many levels.

I rate Lonie very highly at his best, but it seems that he does not reach it enough, and carry the ball like a good rebounding defender (see Lindsay Gilbee) should. Lonie’s form in the 2002 finals series was outstanding, and his efforts on Grand Final day were pivotal in nearly knocking off the Lions.

That Lonie, for whichever reason, has not been seen since, only in spades in 2003, and on occasions in 2006.

I read Robert Walls’ column in last Tuesday’s Age, critiquing Collingwood and assessing our immediate future. I didn’t mind the article, and the hard questions must always be asked. In fact, I generally agreed with most Walls wrote.

One point which made my mind tick over was the paragraph towards the end reading:

“Ryan Lonie has taken his game to a new level this season”

Ok, fair enough, and I’ll admit, he has, in that he is now averaging more of the ball than ever, and was not omitted once as should prove the norm with senior players, his early season form, in particular, very encouraging. It must be said that he was assigned with a number of tagging roles throughout the year, and carried out most with distinction.

But to a new level? I’m not sold. Maybe half a level, but there is plenty of improvement to make, and he really does need to return to the days of yore when he filled us all with hope.

Am I being overly critical? I don’t believe so. Ryan Lonie was good this season, but can get even better. Will he do it at Collingwood? I hope so. Should/would he be trade bait? I think he should be floated, if nothing else to see what other clubs may be willing to sacrifice for him.

I like Ryan Lonie, I like him a lot, and he adds plenty of new ingredients to the table. I’d hate to see another club bring the best out of him, but it remains to be seen as to whether he’ll reach his best in the Black and White.

Verdict: Float as trade bait to see what gives, otherwise hold.

Expectation for 2007: Play each and every game, back himself and set up play as an attacking wingman.

Rating: 6/10

[b]Alan Didak:[/b]

One player who did take his game to a new level in 2006, Didak took that famed next step, rising from a dangerous, crafty, hot-and-cold forward pocket to a bona fide midfielder come forward who won his share of the ball, and set up the play for the rest of his team.

The rise of Alan Didak has been much talked about, and it was fitting that his season was capped off by All-Australian recognition on a half forward flank. He has deserved it, no doubt, and the scene is now set for Dids to become the star we’ve all wished he would become.

With the retirement of Nathan Buckley on the horizon, we need a midfielder capable of standing up and mixing it in the class stakes, the player who can sting the opposition by foot, hand or brain. Didak is the man.

It has also been welcome to witness the Croatian Sensation grow into a team leader, now a player whom the team looks to when the chips are down. And when the stakes are at their highest, Didak rarely goes missing.

Verdict: Keep, with a bullet.

Expectation for 2007: A semi-permanent move into the midfield, averaging above the 20 disposal mark, and stepping up into the official leadership group.

Rating: 8.5/10

[b]Nathan Buckley:[/b]

Good old Bucks. What can be said now that hasn’t been said before, except to say that his premiership aspirations again appear somewhat grim. Despite his age, Buckley rebounded from two hamstring-riddled seasons to hit his best form since his Brownlow Medal heroics of 2003.

Finally making the proper transition to the forward pocket, playing only cameo roles onball, Buckley added even more firepower to a big name forward combination, showing that, all going well, he can more than cut it at senior level in attack, adding a new string to his bow.

Clever coaching by Malthouse saw Bucks ‘rested’ for two matches, against West Coast on the trip to Perth (a 14 point loss), and the 44 point win over Carlton in round 21, following two heavy trips to Adelaide. This no doubt helped see Bucks through the season without completely wasting him. And so it proved, the week after his absence against the Eagles, the skipper returned to have a 27 possession say in the 102 point annihilation of Geelong.

?? were fortunate to witness Bucks play out one of his finest matches in round ten against Brisbane. With players dropping like flies due to injury (Blake Caracella, Dane Swan, Nick Maxwell, Josh Fraser) and a chockablock interchange bench, Buckley took it upon himself to stand tall when the Lions challenged, tearing nemesis Brad Scott apart in scoring a career high six goals, guiding the side home as a good captain should.

Speaking of the captaincy, has the time come for Buckley to hand over the reigns to a new leader in order to focus on the final few years of his football life? I say no. I’m a traditionalist, and a Buckley lover, and no matter what capacity he fulfils at the club, be it as a player, coach or bootstudder, Buckley is still the spiritual leader. As long as he feels mentally fresh enough to lead the club, let him keep control. It is a similar situation to that of the Eagles, with Ben Cousins relinquishing the captaincy to Chris Judd, yet remaining the spiritual leader.

That isn’t to say that there are no others who could do the job with aplomb (I’d love to see James Clement or Josh Fraser skipper the team), but while Bucks is fit and firing, there is no need to alter the deck chairs.

As the season drew to a close, it was clear that Buckley was beginning to tire in both mind and body, the abrupt ending perhaps a blessing in disguise.

I still feel that perhaps, at a pinch, another two years could be squeezed out of the legend, although it does appear likely, at this stage, that 2007 will be his final fling. I just hope, pray, wish, that he is able to sniff out premiership success before his time is out.

Will he do a Paul Roos and receive his just rewards as a coach? Time will tell.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation for 2007: 18-20 games, a few rest periods to keep him going. Spend more time up forward, with runs on the ball.

Rating: 7.5/10

[b]Brodie Holland:[/b]

It’s hard to rate Holland’s season. On one hand, he was excellent, in the way he continued to win handy numbers, and tag hard, his deeds off field in promoting the club contributing to the cause. On the other hand, though, Holland lacked the bite and sting of 2005, and his overall effectiveness was not as high as in previous years.

And I being too harsh on Dutchy?

Probably. But I feel that his standards slipped ever so slightly as the year wore on. That isn’t to say that his year was not a good one, not at all, but his overall effectiveness did slip slightly.

Holland’s importance to the senior side cannot be underestimated, for his five week achilles inflicted absence saw the side lose four matches, and it was no coincidence that the team was back on the winners list as soon as Holland returned against the Eagles in heritage round.

Although his finals effort was overly successful, he was not alone, and the gloss should not be removed from his solid, workmanlike season, one in which he can build on in 2007.

Which reminds me of something. Brodie Holland will miss the first six matches for a bump on Bulldog Brett Montgomery in the opening seconds of our finals loss. A good hit, a dangerous hit, and deserved weeks. But six? Come on!

Verdict: Keep

Expectation for 2007: Play each and every match from round seven onwards, not get suspended and continue to tear in hard.

Rating: 6.5/10

[b]Chad Morrison:[/b]

Poor old Chad, I bet he didn’t see it coming. After a number of successful years in the West, Morrison opted to return to Victoria to play under his mentor Mick Malthouse with the club he supported as a child. At the time, the move seemed a reasonable one, Morrison only 26 and with plenty of experience under his belt.

Sadly, it wasn’t to be. The Chad, as he became affectionately known, began his tenure well in 2005, arguably our best player, along side Clement, Wakelin and Licuria in the opening seven weeks. But a public spray (indirect) from Malthouse following a 112 point loss to the Dockers in which the coach singled out Morrison and fellow veteran Scott Burns:

"Believe me, Scott Burns and Chad Morrison are under enormous pressure to hold their place. It's not a matter of possessions, particularly when you get beaten by a 130 possessions."

He later qualified his comments, justifiably so, but, who knows? Perhaps it did put Morrison off his game?

At any rate, his 2005 petered out, and his 2006 campaign began on completely the wrong foot, superseded by youth (Dane Swan, Heath Shaw, Scott Pendlebury), and a drink-driving escapade which landed him, and the club’s sponsorship with the TAC, in hot water.

Morrison returned to the senior side for the round ten victory over Brisbane, and played out some cameos in the following weeks, his final match, sadly, a shocker against former side West Coast in round 16 at Telstra Dome, a few kicks terribly grubby, kicks of a player devoid of confidence, perhaps?

Either way, Morrison was soon demoted, and announced his retirement thereafter. A sad way for a very serviceable footballer to bow out, having enjoyed plenty of success with the Eagles in his youth, before his knees gave way to the harsh Subiaco Oval surface.

Verdict: Retired

Rating: 1/10

[b]James Clement:[/b]

The consummate professional (how often has that been said about this bloke?), Clement continued from where he left off in 2005, and, despite the clubs fortunes this season, is still an excellent chance to walk home from the Crown Casino on the 6^th of October with his third successive Copeland Trophy tucked neatly away.

It will add to the mystification surrounding his controversial absence from the All-Australian team, one which does, it must be said, lack a touch of credibility due to his non-selection.

The way Clement has carried himself over the past five seasons has been a credit to himself and the club, and he is now by far one of the best players in the caper, and would undoubtedly prove a more than worthy captain should Buckley opt to quit the post. No reasons why he can’t continue his excellent form for the next 2-3 three seasons.

Verdict: Keep – was there any doubt?

Expectation: No need for concern here; I think it beyond expectation that Clement again reaches his high levels of excellence. It just happens nowadays.

Rating: 9/10

[b]Julian Rowe:[/b]

I was a fan of Rowe in his formative years, but 2006 signalled a landmark year for the ex-Carey Grammar student, and he unfortunately was unable to stand up and find a place in the senior team on a permanent basis (two matches, vs Melbourne in round 11, vs Carlton in round 21).

Despite some solid, at times excellent form for Williamstown in the VFL, Rowe was unable to crack the senior line up, and at the close of his third year in the senior ranks, the club may opt to make the card call and float his name as trade bait in October.

Hard call? Certainly, especially taking into consideration the fact that he suffered from Osteitis Pubis in the summer months. At his best, he looks a class act, uses it nicely when on song (although his kicking has been shown up on the big stage), and moves like a senior player.

It’ll be interesting to see which way Malthouse and co lean this October, as Rowe comes across as the sort of player who has the ability to burn us should he be cut free and enjoy a clear run in the seniors, perhaps suited to Richmond or Carlton?

I’d keep if at all possible, but it wouldn’t surprise to see his name in the papers in the coming weeks, although it must be remembered that he is contracted for 2007.

Verdict: Keep if possible, but may prove tasty trade bait

Expectations: Play 15 games and begin to command a senior role.

Rating: 1.5/10

[b]Blake Caracella:[/b]

Unfortunately, as we all now know, Caracella’s decorated career has come to a close due to a horrific neck injury suffered in a collision with Lion Tim Notting in our round ten meeting with Brisbane.

I’ve written enough on Caracella in recent months (check the CFC.com website for details), but his loss burnt the side in a number of ways which were overlooked, for he had struck some good form in the weeks leading up to the incident, and his class, finesse and vision were sorely missed, as was his presence alone, which not only created goals through his cool head under the pump, but his ability to float into the middle and set up the play, or allow players of a similar ilk, Didak, Egan and Davis, was missed. His finals experience would have proven invaluable against the Bulldogs, too.

As I’ve written elsewhere, well played, Blake, and enjoy retirement.

Verdict: Retired

Rating: 4/10

[b]Shane O'Bree:[/b]

A solid season by O’Bree, playing consistent football all year in the traditional rovers slot, in arguably his best year since his inspiring efforts of 2001, which saw him likened to Carlton legend Brett Ratten. There isn’t much to write about O’Bree, as he has been neither controversial, awful nor brilliant. Simply, he constantly knocked up winning high numbers, and his disposal was solid. Underrated on the whole.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play all 22 matches and perform to his consistent best.

Rating: 7/10

[b]Tristan Walker:[/b]

Having played in the 2003 Grand Final, the sky seemed the limit for big Tex. Instead, it proved a glass ceiling. Having failed to play a senior game in 2006, and without a contract for 2007, things look grim for the likeable Tex.

Verdict: Trade/delist

Expectation: Trade/delist

Rating: 0/10

[b]Dale Thomas:[/b]

How good has the kid been? Seriously, for a young, skinny 18 year old straight out of the TAC Cup, Thomas has been a sensation, be in it attack or pushing up the ground, his tackling, chasing and willingness to compete winning him plaudits from many. How can you not feel invigorated by his dare and spark, and the way he throws himself into the heavens in search of the ball. The very player we need at Collingwood, Thomas has the x-factor.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play 15-20 matches, continue the maturation, and put on weight.

Rating. 6/10 (considering his height, weight and age)

[b]Shane Wakelin:[/b]

One of my favourite players, but sadly, Wakes’ career is coming to a close, although, contrary to what many may tell you, his form in his 13 matches during 2006 was not all that bad. He didn’t, on the surface, appear to lose any of his pace nor guile, and his absence was more often than not created due to a lack of match ups in the opposition line up (Maxwell was generally preferred).

To my mind, Wakelin is still a key player in our line up, and, should he continue to chug on into 2007, should spend the majority of the season in the seniors. For a player to be plucked out of obscurity with the 49^th selection in the 2000 draft, Wakelin has not put a foot out of place.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play the majority of matches in the senior line up.

Rating: 3.5/10

[b]Chris Egan:[/b]

*Before I say anything, I must mention that Egan has become one of my favourite players, and anything I say from now on could be flavoured with a touch of bias.

How good was Egan in the second half of the season?! I was a sceptic early doors, but was heartened by a solid effort against Sydney in round 12, before carrying on his form all the way through to round 22, putting in something of a quieter performance in the finals loss to the Bulldogs.

I’m very gladdened by Egan’s form, in that he has that x-factor, and will sooner or later turn a game. Pace, touch, confidence, the boy has it all, and when he properly fills out will be an Adam Goodes type – yes, you heard it here first.

All that aside, Egan looks a real talent, and is one whom I can’t wait to see grow as a player.

Verdict: Keep with a bullet

Expectation: Play the majority of the season in the seniors and continue to grow and mature as a footballer. Put on a big of weight, too.

Rating: 6/10

[b]Scott Pendlebury:[/b]

Another youngster to step up this season, Pendles is fleet of foot and a classy ball user. Although he was a controversial selection at pick five last summer, Pendlebury was able to overcome a Christmas bout of Glandular Fever and hit the senior ranks in round ten against Brisbane off the back of some good form for Williamstown.

A baptism of fire it was, and what a way to kick-start your career – a rousing, bruising victory over Brisbane! Come to think of it, Pendlebury, Thomas and Heath Shaw all have perfect, unscarred records against the Lions. A handy start.

At any rate, Pendlebury did not appear overawed in his first season at senior level, a year where any showing in the big time was said to be a big thing. Another summer or two of weights and continued practice, and we may have our own Nick Dal Santo (no pressure at all, sorry Pendles!).

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play 15 or more games, continue to grow in confidence.

Rating: 5/10

[b]Scott Burns:[/b]

The old reliable, Burnsy, was terrific all year after an interrupted start due to injury and a bout of gastro. Considering his age, 32, Burns was a star at the coalface in the midfield or in his stints in attack.

Perhaps it doesn’t auger well for the side that a 32 year old in Burns is still relied upon, to an extent, to provide the spark onball, which is what he did against Carlton in round 21, the Kangaroos in round 22, against Essendon in round 19 and on a few other occasions.

I’m sure he’ll faithfully plough on into 2007, but I just hope he can continue on into 2008, as, in the form he’s in, he is still an integral player in our onball combination. Although he may have missed that goal in the dying seconds against the Power at AAMI Stadium in round 20, it was offset by his immense bravery in taking that courageous grab in running back with the flight of the ball on the wing, having his legs taken from under him.

When future generations discuss Collingwood legends, I just hope that, alongside the names of Coventry, Collier, Rose, Toomey, Richardson, Thompson, Daicos, Millane, Brown and Buckley comes the name Scott Burns, for he is the heart and soul of the Collingwood Football Club, and has been so since 1995.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play 20 (add-subtract two either way) matches and continue keeping on.

Rating: 7.5/10

[b]Paul Licuria:[/b]

After many years of excellence at such a high level, Licuria, by his own admission, dropped off the pace a tad this season, and following some midyear injuries and a form slump, spent time down at Point Gellibrand in order to recapture his best form.

To his credit, Licca did just that, and by the end of the season was back to his best in pilling up the big numbers, and even floating into attack in round 22 against the Kangaroos too boot a career high four goals.

Although members of his bandwagon have dropped like flies, I’m still a staunch supporter of Licca, as is coach Malthouse, who, after round three’s 77 point win over the Roos said:

“As long as he (Licuria) breaths air, he’s in my side”

People continue to write him off, but you can bet your bottom dollar that Licuria will come out breathing fire (no pun intended) in 2007. He is still a key component of our midfield structure.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Return to/maintain his best form and play each week.

Rating: 6.5/10

[b]Ben Davies:[/b]

I’m a fan of Davies, who was seemingly forever on the periphery of senior selection for much of the year, before breaking in for a few weeks towards the tailend of the year, missing out on finals action.

In the one Williamstown match I saw live on TV, Davies was ultra-impressive in the midfield on a wet track down at Point Gellibrand against the Casey Scorpions (St Kilda). Despite the mucky conditions, Davies’ ball skills shone through like a beacon. A week later, Davies was promoted to the senior ranks to take on the Eagles in Heritage Round, and was super impressive opposed to hard running Coaster Rowan Jones.

We have done excellently out of the 2004 Rookie Draft, with Davies, Harry O'Brien and David Fanning all pushing through the ranks (poor old Zane Leonard unable to shrug the hamstring shackles).

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play 15 matches off a wing/as an onballer and add bulk to his frame.

Rating: 5.5/10

[b]Chris Tarrant:[/b]

I guess it’s fair enough to say that Tazza’s time has come and gone in Black and White, now shipped off to Fremantle in exchange for the eighth selection in supposedly the most plentiful National Draft in many a year (said to rival that of 2001 [Judd, Ball, Hodge], as well as enigmatic small forward Paul Medhurst.

A fair deal? I think so, however, I’d have hoped that the club pushed the Dockers as hard as possible to find someone the likes of Ryan Crowley or Byron Schammer, who, in all fairness to Medhurst, probably address our more immediate needs.

But Tarrant. What more can you add which hasn’t been said before by so many? I’ll go on record right now as saying that I wish Chris Tarrant every success with Fremantle (preferably not a premiership, I’d like them, thanks), and hope that he becomes the player he was in 2003, and the player he could have been with us. In each and every exchange I’ve had with him, he has come across as a very nice person and very approachable, and it is sad to see him victimised by so many of the faithful. Of course, he’s had his much documented off field issues, but the fact remains, he’s only human, and will inevitably make mistakes.

With all that said, it was the right move for both parties, who’d become, I feel, stale with one another. I’m sure the club (off field more so) may feel a little as if the weight had been lifted from their shoulders, while Taz himself will, I’m sure, be keen to start afresh with the slate clean, particularly alongside childhood mate Dean Soloman.

Thanks for the memories, Taz, both good and bad. I remember hearing on the radio on Easter Saturday, 1998 that Taz had scored his first major in league football on debut (for the record, we lost to a classy Western Bulldogs outfit at Optus Oval), while I was present on that dismal Sunday afternoon this season, when the same outfit crushed us. I don’t think that Chris was all that bad that day, either. Far from the worst.

Number 20. The old number 20.

Verdict: He’s gone

Expectation: Never mind

Rating: 6/10

[b]Guy Richards:[/b]

I’m sure I’ve said this many times before, and will probably have to say it to more than a few again, but I believe that Guy Richards will prove a very good footballer for Collingwood, given an injury free run and a proper pre-season spent reaching maximum fitness and bulk. He looked promising once more for the first ten or so weeks, before another mystery injury sidelined him until late in the year. Although most have chosen to overlook it, it was Richards who provided the impetus to get us moving in the final term against the Kangaroos in round 22. He can play, and will prove that should everything work for him. I don’t know of his abilities on the training track, although if he could go harder than ever before, we could yet have the next Peter Everitt.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play each match and become the player he should be.

Rating: 5/10

[b]Rhyce Shaw:[/b]

Rhyce was hampered by his knee injury early on, and it really took him until midseason to click back into gear, which is understandable. His run and drive were important, and he has the ability now to step up to the status of a leader in the senior side, as he will be in his [b]eighth[/b] year in 2007 (can you believe it?). It’s time in 2007 that he plays all 22 matches and becomes a vital cog in our line up.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play all 22 matches and step up another level.

Rating: 6/10

[b]Anthony Rocca:[/b]

How exactly do you rate Pebbles season? He was excellent for one half, and dreadfully out of form for the other. So where does he fit in? A successful season, an unfulfilled year, or just an average, inconsistent season? I’d dub it, generally, one of success, in that he missed all bar four matches last year with a terrible achilles injury, and after such a long time out, he was always going to need time to settle in.

So more than 50 goals for the first time in his career is a plus. However, it could have been more had he held his line and length. He put in a shocker in the Elimination Final (he was not alone), and I’m sure it will sting him for a while yet.

Can Rocca become the player he’s threatened to be? Maybe. Is he still the key to this Collingwood side? Yes. A firing, fit and mean Rocca equates to a nigh on unbeatable Collingwood. Another pre-season, in which he regains his fitness and refreshes the batteries, will hold him in good stead. I’m seriously hoping that we see him back out at centre half forward, where he has played his best football (2002). Yes, he was younger and fitter back then, but it drags him into the play, and his ability to crash packs and roost home team lifters are second to none. 2007 is, indeed, now or never, although he has signed a three year deal.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Return to CHF and, hopefully, 2002 like form.

Rating: 7/10

[b]Tarkyn Lockyer:[/b]

After that shocker in the Elimination Final, I was (understandably) livid over the incompetence of the Collingwood Football Club, and I had two players, Lockyer and Ryan Lonie, in the gun.

A fair assertion?

Back then, yes, but now the pain has subsided somewhat. My thoughts on Tarkyn Lockyer are as follows: Handy linkman who has lost pace since his knee injury in 2003, but can still hold down a tagging role in defence and knows where the big sticks are. Has his days where he is able to find 25 touches.

So it all boils down to a good ordinary player. However, I’ve always been of the opinion that Lockyer’s ability to burrow in and under for the hardball has been somewhat belted by Jarrod Molloy – literally! On a cool, crisp August evening (round 20 against Essendon) in 2001, Lockyer went sliding in for the contested ball on the half forward flank, competing with Bomber Mark Mercuri. Unfortunately, from nowhere, steamed Molloy, who intended to take out Mercuri, but instead flattened Lockyer. Tarks was out cold, and ended up missing the rest of the season with the concussion.

Although he’s shown signs since, Lockyer has not really found his form from those seasons (2001-2002), and although his foot skills are still precise and his play generally tidy, he lacks the speed to really go in the midfield. I’d be pleased to see him given a chance in attack, where he has the knack of finding the big sticks and locking the ball in, a la a smaller Rupert Betheras. He can still lockdown in defence with aplomb, too.

I’ve penned down my ‘rough’ best XXII for Collingwood in 2007, and, to be honest, cannot find a place for Lockyer, although I’m sure that injury aside, he’ll be in there. ’07 looms as a big year for Lockyer, as I think he may have reached a fork in the road. A likeable guy, and a very conscientious trainer, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him bite back.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Find his ball winning form once more, and hit his 2001-2002 heights.

Rating: 6.5/10

[b]Josh Fraser:[/b]

I think Fraser enjoyed a pretty decent year in the ruck, however, there is still massive room for improvement.

Every time I watch replays from 2001 and 2002, and Fraser bobs up, I see a much different footballer. Back then, in his formative years, Fraser was a more dainty player, with the ability to take the ball with one hand, and quite literally dance down the wings/flanks and elegantly deliver the ball inside the fifty with a textbook kicking style. He had that x-factor about him, came across as a real onfield leader and the face of the bright future.

Fast forward five years, and Fraser is more of a ruckman, albeit a battered one, who has been forced to carry the can for much of the past seven years, despite his underdeveloped frame.

We need Guy Richards, desperately, desperately, to stand up and be counted and release Josh inside fifty. Fraser does more damage when acting as the third floater in attack, as we’ve seen in the 2002 Grand Final, when he was, I believe, our fourth best afield [for the record, it was Buckley, Burns, Rocca, Fraser, Lonie, Wakelin, Freeborn]. He has a great leap, a real will to win and plays like a rover.

It’s either in attack or on the wing. Why place a 202cm ruckman on the wing, I hear you ask? Why not, when he has the agility, aerobic capacity and ball skills to do so? He has decent speed, and is generally brilliant below his knees (although he has a tendency to go to ground too often.) But you know what? I don’t mind that. It is in his make up, and some things, like that, can’t always be quashed out of a player. He often does what you may expect an O’Bree to do, in that he farms the ball out to his rovers at ground level.

So why not employ him on a wing? He lopes down gracefully, and would provide opposition coaches with a huge headache. Who, exactly, would you play on him? How would you go about tagging him? It’d be nigh on impossible. Too tall for a Cameron Ling, too agile for a Damien Peverill, simply too nimble for even a Steven Baker.

It’s food for Mick Malthouse’s thought, and I hope that he either:

a) Reads this or

b) Simply does it.

When drafted back in 1999, Fraser was talked up as a once in a lifetime ruckman. He may yet be that, however he’ll need a stack of back up support. Infact, I’d rather Josh as [b]the[/b] back up to Richards, Clark Keating, or whoever we go for in the drafts. Let him take spells here and there, but generally, he needs to play as a half forward flanker or a wingman, where we can best harness and utilise his immense talents before it’s too late.

And a simple excursus, I keep swinging on our next captain. Clement? Didak? Johnson? Lockyer? Rocca? Licuria? Burns? Fraser? I’d go with Rogan Josh. It’s time.

Phew! I needed to get that lot off much chest. I’ve been wanting to go off the long run on Josh, and there it is!

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play only 15% as a ruckman, and be used cleverly as a third tall forward or as a wingman. Become the star he was destined to become.

Rating: 7/10

[b]Ben Johnson:[/b]

I’ve always been a fan of Jonno. As many may know (or not know), I’m Johnson#26 on the various internet boards around the Magpies Net. When I finally decided to join up in late 2003, it was only months after the debacle that was the ’03 Grand Final, and wounds had not yet healed. Who to chose for a username? Who was going to be the one to stand the test of time, and give the name a good ten years currency?

It could have been Josh Fraser.

It could have been Alan Didak.

It could have been Richard Cole.

It could have been Jason Cloke.

It very nearly was Rupert Betheras.

Instead, I turned to Ben Johnson, and the choice has come off, Jonno stepping up in the ensuring three years to become one of the most underrated footballers in Australia, and evolve into a team leader around the club.

It came as a surprise to many when Jonno was leading the Brownlow Medal count early doors, although on the surface, it was completely justified. He had an excellent opening to the season, and it continued throughout. You know what you’ll get each and every time Johnson takes to the field, grunt, speed, dash, carry and long bombs inside fifty. Underrated footskills, too.

The most mystifying aspect of his season was his non-invitation to the Brownlow count!

That aside, Johnson created headlines in 2006, but not for all the right reasons. Along with Taz, Jonno found himself in some hot water prior to the round 18 clash with Adelaide for an altercation outside a pub in the early hours of the morning. Not the greatest way to find the media spotlight!

To his credit, Johnson bounced back hard the following Saturday night against the Crows at AAMI, applying his all to the task when under such public scrutiny, working his heart out off halfback, and ranking as the Magpies fifth best on the night.

To many, it may comes as a surprise to see his name touted (albeit by myself) as leadership material among the club. Why? He has a small media profile, and you rarely see him interviewed by many, and besides, he has dashed his hopes with [b]that[/b] incident late in the season.

I think otherwise.

Jonno’s a Collingwood man at heart, having been born and bred up in the heart of Magpie territory in Diamond Creek, and is a proven performer when it counts in September [his match turning tackle in Peter Burgoyne in the 2002 Qualifying Final when his neck was on the selectors chopping block, an excellent Grand Final on Jason Akermanis, a starring role in the 2003 Qualifying Final, and more than solid efforts in the following finals]. What’s more, he’ll fly the flag when a teammate is unfairly dealt with, and he doesn’t take no for an answer. He is fit, hard, provides an excellent on-track example, and gives his all.

What’s more, it’d be attached by a real feeling of [b]destiny[/b], in that he was selected from the slums of the 1999 National Draft at pick 62 (the first draft conducted under the eyes of Mick Malthouse, the first stepping stone into the future), fighting his way up the back way, even taking on (at his own request) Gavin Brown’s legendary number 26 back in 2001 after Rowdy’s retirement.

Wow. I’ve almost convinced myself that Jonno [b]IS[/b] indeed the man for the job, just when I was being swayed by Josh Fraser. Time will tell.

To sum up Johnson’s 2006, it was high quality, his ball usage again improved, his run was ubiquitous, and he showed the heart we all pray for in our Collingwood draftees. He matched his 2004 season, in that he was runner up (alongside James Clement) in the Copeland Trophy by two votes to Alan Didak. A fine season. Perhaps Malthouse and Judkins’ finest work in the draft.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Continue his rise to become a top quality, league recognised footballer. Keep an eye on him for All-Australian honours should all go well.

Rating: 8/10

[b]Nick Maxwell:[/b]

Maxy was going great guns until round ten, when he put his slender frame on the line against Brisbane brute (and I mean it in the nicest possible way) Jonathon Brown, breaking his leg, causing him to spend six weeks on the sidelines. It truly derailed a season which looked more than handy across halfback. In the ensuring weeks, I was convinced that Maxy had proven our [b]rudder[/b] in defence. Perhaps that was going too far, but nonetheless, he impressed.

Upon return, it (understandably) took him time to find his feet, and in the Elimination Final he floundered in defence as the Bulldogs picked us apart (in fairness, he was not alone, and it was a mighty tough day to be in defence, what, with the ball coming in as hard and fast as it did).

He can play, can Maxy, and is proving an excellent find off the 2003 rookie list. Another summer in the gym will fit the bill, as he feeds off the likes of Clement, Wakelin and Presti, in the hope that he successor of one of the three come 2008-09.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play all 22 matches and add bulk to his frame.

Rating: 6/10

[b]Danny Stanley:[/b]

I can’t really judge Danny, as I barely saw [read: didn’t see] any of him in the season proper for Williamstown. All I can say is that I saw plenty of him over the course of the pre-season, and in the scratch matches, he looked an absolute gun. Is that going overboard at this stage? Yes, but it shows that he appeared to have something in him. Earmarked to replace Burnsy in time (perish the thought!).

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Debut, and play something, at best, between 6-10 games.

Rating: 0/10

[b]Ryan Cook:[/b]

As with Stanley, I saw none of Cook throughout the season, although I read that he did infact manage five goals for Williamstown against eventual premiers Sandringham in the VFL. Is said to be a Nick Davis/Andrew Williams type across half forward and the wing. Was a bottom age draftee in 2005 (so, theoretically, 2007 will be his ‘first’ real season on the list in comparison to his contemporaries).

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Preferably debut and play between 5-8 matches.

Rating: 0/10

[b]David Fanning:[/b]

It seemed a somewhat perplexing move for the club to dump Fanning at the conclusion of 2006, although I can’t say I saw overly too much in him at senior level. Why? Malthouse, in particular, seemed a big fan of his whenever he spoke of him, and the club did seem quite buoyant about his prospects 12 months ago. He was fast-tracked into senior football in 2005 due to injury, and after taking a mauling at the hands of Luke Darcy, bounced back to become a decent player, albeit one in need of experience to feed his relatively underdeveloped football brain (given the fact he was an NBL basketballer).

It has the potential to burn us, though, should we miss out on Clark Keating, and one of Fraser or Richards go down through injury. It was good to see Flaps develop over the duration of 2005, though. Not a bad effort for a basketballer fast-tracked to the big time.

Verdict: Delisted

Expectation: Nil

Rating: 1/10

[b]John Anthony:[/b]

Similar to Stanley and Cook, in that I haven’t seen them yet at VFL level, although with Anthony I witnessed a quarter of the Williamstown clash with Port Melbourne on the ABC, and he really struck a chord in his attack on the ball in the second term. Looks a real goer, and a potential fullback post Presti/Wakes/Clement. As with Cook, a bottom age draftee.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Debut, and learn the ropes off the Wakes’ of the world.

Rating: 0/10

[b]Travis Cloke:[/b]

Off the back of such a stunning 2005 debut season, it was always going to be difficult for Cloke Mk III to make any real ‘visible’ advances, and coupled with his jaw surgery pre-season, it was going to take a little while before Travis hit his straps.

When he did, in the second half of the season, he against showcased why he will be a topliner for the club in the next ten years, with a three vote effort against Hawthorn in round 17 the highlight. His marking is simply terrific, as is his ability to play in similar fashion to Josh Fraser, as a taller onballer, such is his agility. Was on fire against the Blues in the penultimate round before injuring a shoulder. Could explode in 2007, all going well.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play all 22 matches, teaming with Rocca and Rusling to provide viable replacements for Tarrant.

Rating: 5.5/10

[b]Cameron Cloke:[/b]

He’s done his dash now, Cameron, his four year tenure at the club terminated in late October. It is a bit of a shame, as CC looked a prospect back in 2004 and in spurts of 2005. His dodgy shoulders must have counted against him, as he did have a number of standout efforts at Williamstown. His delisting, along with that of Cameron, may find us a ruckman short should we miss out on one this summer.

I’d have been nice to properly offload him to the Kangaroos for some return, as was touted we were attempting late in trade week. I’m sure another club will find a place for him, as any big man with room for improvement and four years development already in him don’t come around every day. Thanks for the past four years, Cam.

Verdict: Delisted

Expectation: Nil.

Rating: 1/10

[b]Jason Cloke:[/b]

It’s a shame, a real shame, that the career of Jason Cloke at Collingwood has ended. I’m sure there are many who happy about this, but I really don’t see the logic in it. Sure, he was pushed for opportunities in his final two years at the club, and it would have been fair enough for him to want out, that’s all elementary. However, this is the player who was such a [b]star[/b] back in his second (basically first) season at the club in 2002, the man whom all and sundry labelled as our next big thing, the [b]Rock Of Gibraltar[/b] down back for the years to come.

Sadly, for whichever reasons, his appearances have slowly declined ever since, before a slight revival late in 2006. I find it madness that he was dumped for round 21 against Carlton following a good showing against Port Adelaide at AAMI in our narrow victory. I couldn’t believe it then, and still can’t believe it now.

With Shane Wakelin, Clement and Presti all closer to the end than the start, it is time to prepare for succession plans down back, and surely Clokey could fit into that? Yes, we have Nick Maxwell and John Anthony, and even Alan Toovey, but none of these boys have 70odd games to their names, nor have they actually played as well as Clokey when at his best.

Malthouse persisted with Cloke at centre half forward for parts of the latter stages of 2003 and much of 2004 without any luck. Put simply, Clokey [b]is not[/b] a forward, and sometimes, it just won’t work, and you need to cut your losses. It did not help Clokey one iota to be shuffled around, looking for the right forward mix, when he is first and foremost a defender, and a good one at that.

Many have said his 2003 Grand Final showing was terrible, and, yes, it was. But how can he have helped that when playing in such a foreign position? Sure, you can argue that a player needs to be adaptable to the modern game, and play wherever the coach places him no matter the circumstances.

But, really, some players just won’t work in some positions, no matter how hard you strive. Malthouse was quoted in the aftermath of the 50 point capitulation as saying that Jason had played a better Grand Final the previous year in 2002, when he didn’t even get a run due to suspension (more on that later). I found that comment more than a little harsh, and I’m sure Clokey did, too.

And then there is the matter of [b]the[/b] suspension.

The suspension which set the wheels in motion for the demise of Clokey, who, it seemed, never really found his best from then on.

With the ball kicked high to the Adelaide forward flank underneath the Members Stand in the second term of the 2002 Preliminary Final, Jason Cloke and Tyson Edwards contested the mark. Starting a good meter or two ahead, Edwards reached the drop first, and got hands to the ball. Cloke, lacking the head start, contacted Edwards a second too late. As he had done so brilliantly all season, Cloke went to thump, not punch, thump the ball clear from Edwards. However, he was slightly late, and as he was slightly out of position, instead connected with Edwards’ nose, sending the Crow to the turf, where he duly broke his nose.

Clokey, as we all know, was booked for what was nothing more than an untidy and reckless act. The predictions for the consequences differed, most people believing that Cloke, a ball player, would be cleared to play in that Saturday’s Grand Final.

Instead, Cloke was forced to wear a two week ban, despite the appeal, and missed the Grand Final. It was argued that Edwards had actually broken his nose when he hit the ground, and that Clokey was doing what he’d done so well all season.

The tribunal saw it differently. It was madness, really, and as we all know, minus Clokey, we went down by nine points.

Would Jason Cloke have changed the course of the match? Who knows? However, a young man was unfairly robbed of an opportunity to play in an AFL Grand Final. He was, for mine, never the same player again.

So thanks for the memories, Clokey. I’ve always been a massive wrap for him, and will continue to be, and just hope that another club sees his ability, and snares a highly underrated defender. Best wishes.

Verdict: Delisted

Expectation: To be picked up by another club and perform like we know he can.

Rating: 5/10 (under trying circumstances).

[b]Simon Prestigiacomo:[/b]

Enjoyed another serviceable, solid season, did Presti, who was rarely beaten on the last line of defence. There is not really all that much I can add, as Presti did for us what he has done year in, year out: quell the best defenders in the game with great success, a minimum of fuss and a lack of acknowledgement. His stopping role on Bomber Scott Lucas on Anzac Day was nothing short of sensational.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Continue to just keep on keeping on and, hopefully, receive overdue recognition from the All-Australian selectors.

Rating: 7/10

[b]Dane Swan:[/b]

What a [b]revelation[/b] Swan proved to be! In his fifth season in the senior ranks, Swan unexpectedly, might I add, took that next step from handy linkman (2004-2005) to frontliner with speed and brains (2006). Swan became arguably our number one midfielder, won a stack of the football, was used cleverly off the pine by coach Malthouse, and drifted forward more often than not to score more than a few handy six pointers. Still vastly underrated by the football community, Swan could yet improve on his efforts in 2007 and become an even greater player. Not a bad effort for a man chosen in the depths of the 2001 National Draft!

Verdict: Brilliant

Expectation: If possible, rise another step, to a fulltime, 90% gametime midfielder.

Rating: 8.5/10

[b]Sam Iles:[/b]

An interesting debut season from Sammy, who rose from obscurity to not only be selected ahead of estranged Carlton wingman Scott Camporearle with the second selection in the pre-season draft, but to be dumped into the ring of fire which was AAMI Stadium in [i]that[/i] infamous clash with Adelaide, following the week that saw Tarrant and Johnson land themselves in hot water. Iles performed admirably, and scrapped hard when the heat was on.

He lasted another three weeks before a back injury sidelined him for the final round and subsequently the final against the Bulldogs. His season obviously surpassed the expectations of most onlookers, the hope is that he may fill the role Tarkyn Lockyer once did in his formative years.

Verdict: Keep

Expectation: Play ten or so games at best, continuing to improve with each outing. Perhaps progress to the midfield.

Rating: 4/10

[b]Adam Iacobucci:[/b]

It was a little sad, and slightly bemusing, that Iacobucci was discarded after two years in the system. Although he impressed with every senior outing, and was the top ranked Magpie in the Williamstown Best and Fairest, the club saw fit to cut him loose, despite the recruiting staff dubbing him the Paul Licuria of the club’s future back in late 2004. Yakka is now training with Geelong, and it would be nice to see him receive a second chance in the lottery.

Verdict: Delisted

Expectation: Nil.

Rating: 1/10

[b]Heath Shaw:[/b]

If Dane Swan was a [b]revelation[/b], Heath Shaw was a [b]shock[/b] in 2006. Following some quality, tidy work in defence during the final six weeks of the horrors of 2005, Shaw found himself in the senior line up for the round two meeting with Hawthorn at Telstra Dome as a late replacement for an ill Scott Burns, despite having played only a day earlier with the Seagulls.

Crisis, as they say, creates opportunity, and so it proved for Heater, who took all before him for the rest of the season, not missing another match to run third in the NAB Rising Star and finish in the top ten of the Copeland Trophy.

An amazing, meteoric rise to stardom, after he was dubbed by many as the ‘most unlikely to make an impact’ of the three player strong Shaw clan (Rhyce, Brayden and Heath). Instead, he appears to be our surest bet yet.

His speed and dash off halfback, his courage when venturing where angels fear to tread, his passion upon celebrating a goal...all these factors added up to one hell of a footballer, and Collingwood’s best [b]find[/b] of 2006. Everyone of the faithful now have a soft spot for the son of club legend Ray, the number 39, formerly donned by Matthew Lokan, now plastered on many a back. Set for All-Australian honours and (keep it quiet) future captaincy.

Verdict: Potential star

Expectation: Play all 22 once more in 2007, and continue to provide quality run and carry from defence, hopefully progressing to the midfield.

Rating: 8.5/10

[b]Brent Hall:[/b]

It is disappointing to see that Brent Hall has been axed from the club, although hardly surprising, given that he played only one match in three years and struggled to break out of even the Williamstown reserves! Rumoured to be returning to Perth to play in the WAFL. Good luck, Brent.

Verdict: Delisted

Expectation: Nil.

Rating: 0/10

[b]Alan Toovey*:[/b]

The second selection in the 2005 Rookie Draft, Toovey impressed many with his dash and daring out of the backline for Williamstown, and as such, was rewarded with a definite place on the senior list for season 2007. Could be a darkhorse.

Verdict: Looks handy, keep.

Expectation: Play in the NAB Cup, and perhaps crack it for a few senior matches.

Rating: 1/10

[b]Harry O'Brien*:[/b]

His second season at the club saw O’Brien grab his chances in the big time when promoted to the senior list, when Sean Rusling went down early with a broken collarbone, and then Blake Caracella’s career ended midseason. Whenever in the senior side, O’Brien brought daring and that extra something to the backhalf, showing a willing to run and carry the ball. It seems that running with the pill is ingrained in his psychic, and he can prove an entertaining player to watch. Should he put on a bit more muscle in the gym over summer, we could well be looking at a future Shane Wakelin. Top stuff, Harry, and a well deserved promotion to the senior list.

Verdict: Future key defender with flair.

Expectation: Play, hopefully, more than half the season in the seniors, continuing to mature.

Rating: 5.5/10

[b]Danny Nicholls*:[/b]

Retained as a rookie for another year, Nicholls looked the goods with the Seagulls through the midfield and in attack. Something of a left footed Stephen Milne, mayhap.

Verdict: Retain.

Expectation: Play each match in the Williamstown seniors and push for promotion.

Rating: 1/10 (he was retained)

[b]Shannon Cox*:[/b]

As with the others not to have played at league level this year, I’ve never seen him in the heat of a match, although he is said to be of a similar style to Hawthorn pocket rocket Mark Williams. Promoted to the seniors at seasons end, having obviously impressed the coaching staff.

Verdict: Keep/promoted.

Expectation: Maybe crack it for a senior game here and there, play during the NAB Cup.

Rating: 1/10

So that’s that for the [b]Player Reviews[/b]. I started straight after our season was short-circuited, and restarted from Chris Tarrant onward only today. I guessed that I had all the material in front of me, and that I had to get a wriggle on.

Next week will include the first episode of the season review.