Hi guys
I left at three-quarter time of today's hitout at Gosch's paddock, but here's a few observations:
BEN COUSINS - played on a wing before being whisked away in a car at halftime. Started slowly but dominated the second quarter showing some real pace and skill. Hasn't lost anything.
MARK COUGHLAN - played in the centre square all day and took a while to warm up but did some nice work in close as the game wore on. Looks a bit rusty but got through OK (at least until I left)
SHANE EDWARDS - Super impressive playing through the middle of the ground, even after swapping sides at quarter-time. Could be ready to graduate to a midfield role this season.
ALEX RANCE - A unit. Will play this year for sure as a key backman.
ANDREW RAINES - back to his old self, showing plenty of dash out of defence.
BRETT DELEDIO - uncharacteristically missed a couple of targets but looked a class above everyone else. Had a clone wearing No.3 for the other side - must have been his older brother Matt who has been signed by Coburg. He moves exactly like his brother and did a couple of nice things himself.
TYRONE VICKERY - Played in stints in the ruck and looked very raw, but not out of place.
JAYDEN POST - Took one great mark and slotted a couple of goals as a forward. Looks a likely prospect.
NATHAN FOLEY - Played like a man possessed in the first half before fading a little. Took on everyone running through the middle and looks determined to make up for a disappointing 2008.
ADAM THOMSON - Got his hands on the ball a fair bit and could be a handy pick-up.
TOM HISLOP - Kicked a goal early but didn't see much of him after that.
ROBIN NAHAS - Our first pick in the rookie draft was very lively as a small half-forward type. One to watch.
ANDREW COLLINS - Played in the centre for most of the game and worked his way into it well. Had an excellent third quarter. Still looks like a 14yo kid.
CLEVE HUGHES - Has gone the buzz cut. Not a good look, Cleve. Kicked a nice goal though.
RICHO - Played only one quarter but managed to put on his usual show. He started on a wing against Deal Polo and drifted into the forward line to take a couple of classic pack marks. Made a meal of one shot at goal in close then slotted one from 45m out on the boundary. You gotta love him.

Anyone else who was at the game - feel free to add your comments (especially about the last quarter!). Also I saw Jay Shulz hobble off in the third term but no idea if it's anything serious - updates welcome.
Eat em alive!
Captain Blood

According to the news he made it through and that itself is the most important thing.

Despite the way news outlets have been reporting things it is the Polak actually playing that is the big thing not Cousins. Cogs is also more newsworthy than no mention at all.