Posted by Sereda on 28 June, 1998 at 00:30:07:
In Reply to: Re: The Ages Article posted by Newelly on 27 June, 1998 at 18:08:09:
>
> > > When we had a better midfield back in 1994, ie McGuane,
> > > Buckley and Williams its no surprise we were more competitive than we are now as we weren't as predictable.
> > > Sure Tony Shaw hasn't got the best options at his disposal
> > > but by not giving other players a vital role in the team
> > > he will not be allowing for improvement in other midfield
> > > players. An accountable style of play like Ken Judge's
> > > would be better.
> > There are other players besides the superstar Buckley who have key roles. Scotty Burns has a key role, Willo has a key role, Crosisca has a vital role etc. These players are quality footballers. But, overall, there are very few players in the team who have the skill and committment to demand an integral part in the game plan. Shaw has an ordinary list to work with. The recruitment staff should >shoulder the blame.
> IMHO it will take a few years for the Judkins effect
> to be felt. Still as has been said, Shaw is losing the confidence of his players- what is really the point of him
> continuing if this is the case? Also i would like to see
> Shaw stick by his words of sacking the player that spoke
> out if that player was Buckley, Williams, Burns
> Or one of the Rocca's.
> Another thing has anyone heard of Shaws 'Ring of Fire'
> where players who committ sins on match day have to go into
> a ring with another boxer and aren't allowed to throw punches. Surely this type of draconian punishment went out
> of style in the dark ages. Or at least after Ron 'Hitler' Barrassi retired.
Don't get me wrong - I also would like to see a new coach in 1999. But I think it's unfortunate that history will regard Shaw as a very ordinary coach, as he was so badly hindered by a mediocre playing list. For the first 8 rounds of 1997, he made Collingwood look like world beaters - a commendable achievement considering the lack of quality players.