Grand Final review

Bert like many other well known critics;) was quiet surprised to see Brisbane run over the Pies. Many predicted a close fast running game, however Brisbane blew away the Pies in the second quatre did not look back from there blasting  a shattered Collingwood. The Lions played with true heart  and guts while Collingwood were scared to pick up the ball. I thought the most influential player was AKA who kicked 5 goals and played with fire and passion. Sadly this is the end to the footy season,
however we are looking forward to next year!

Bert

Grand Final preview,

by Bert

The two contestants going head to head for the 2003 premiership are the same ones who met 12 months ago in the last week in September. Brisbane and Collingwood are set to play off again, with another chance for premiership glory. For Brisbane if victorious it will be three in a row, stamping their authority once again. For Collingwood it will be their 1st premiership in nearly fifteen years, boosting the club's confidence for future years.

 Anyway enough about the consequences, "who will win?" you ask. Personally I think that since last year Collingwood has improved out of sight and look to be the favourite. However if they lose Rocca in his tribunal sentence they'll lose a key forward hampering scoring opportunities.

Verdict: Collingwood by 28 points.

Finals results

For week 1 of the finals Bert scored 2/4 making progressive score 109/154.

For week 2 Bert went Skiing and therefore no tips were posted.

Week 3, Bert has gone to the Show.  I think his tips are Collingwood to beat Port and Swans to beat Brisbane. (HT)

Summary of season 2003

by Bert

This season has been one of the more interesting and perplexing seasons. With the absence of a lone superpower this season was unpredictable and surprising. I'll run through each team with a quick summary of their season.

Adelaide

The Crows have re-established themselves as a top 4 contender. With the recruitment of Wayne Carey the Crows seem to have lifted, although Carey is far from his best. The season was a solid one from the Crows and they played well. Unfortunately they lacked the flair and experience that other teams posessed as finals contenders.

Brisbane

The Lions had a solid season apart from a hicup in which they lost several games towards the end of the home and away season. It seems now that the Lions although formidable are not the super team. This said they look as though they have the promise to be a three in a row premiership team.

St Kilda

A great season from a promising side.  Led brilliantly by Hammel - can't believe Carlton was stupid enough to let him go.  Will be a threat for years to come.

Carlton

Although my beloved Blues showed some promise in patches of games Carlton is definately in one of the worst slumps the club has seen. With all the 95 veterans gone and a weak rookie list the Blues will remain cellar dwellers for a long time to come. Hopeless, enough said.

Collingwood

Being a Carlton fan and having resentment towards the Pies I can honestly say that this is an extremely promising team. With Buckley as their skipper and a quality list of youthful players this team will remain a threat for years to come. By the way their finals form is superb ...

Essendon

This season was one of rebuilding for the Dons. After invincible form several years ago it looked as though their A grade form was finished. However the wily old Sheedy has brought the Bombers back up to remain a finals wildcard. With Lloyd and Hird the Bombers have the stars to rise.

Freo

A great year for the club. Finally showing promise with a solid season the Dockers look as though they have settled into the big league. Entering the finals was a bonus however more time is needed before they become a feared team.

Geelong

A poor year for the Cats. Their problems lie with their experienced players who are few and fail to show leadership 100% of the time. Sometimes they showed form with a few exciting rookies but time is needed, years.

Hawthorn

A year of regret. Starting slowly the Hawks looked as though they wouldn't see the light at the end of the tunnel. But to their credit the Hawks managed to claw their way out of the hole. Towards the end of the year they were in fantastic form. However they failed to make the finals, but next year does look promising.

Kangaroos

The Kangas started off well and looked to be Victoria's only finals hope, however they did lose some important games and just missed out on a finals place. These guys play with strong hearts and are an inspirational team, however sometimes they are outclassed. A promising next year lies ahead.

Melbourne

A shocking year which should be forgotten. The Dees' season has been marred by controversy over their coach. Personally I believe its time for a change and fresh blood needs to be injected. A fundamental flaw is that they play fancy football and are no good when things get tough. Should be several years before the Dees pose a premiership threat.

Port Adelaide

Another solid year from the Power. They showed that they are the number 1 team during the home and away season. Finals are another matter and have remained chokers. This is not a serious problem as it will be fixed by time and experience.

Richmond

A very dissapointing year. Started off well and everyone was happy until midseason. The Tiges only won 1 off their last 11.  My fix is again another coach replacement as Danny Frawley does not seem to be the man for the job.

Sydney

A promising year for the Harbour city. Played good footy all year round. During the finals they had a remarkable victory against the Power and are the definate wildcard of choice. If their form continues the Swans definately have a future.

West Coast

A great year at home but failed to win many away games. The final blow was missing out on a home ground final and the elusive double chance. Next few years do look promising for the Eagles.

Bullies

Wooden spooners is not an elaborate title. Gone are the days of success and the Bullies look as though they will be staying down the ladder for a while to come. Financial problems also confront the Bullies.