Daniel Merrett

[christicehurst]

http://i45.tinypic.com/1j14yp.png

Number: 21
Height: 196cm
Weight: 104kg
Debut: Rd 2 2005
DOB: 12-12-1984
Recruited from: Southport (QLD)

Introduction
The Gold Coast product has established himself among the toughest full-backs in the AFL competition after being trialled initially as a forward. His speed, size, strength and devastating right fist enable him to effectively match-up on the opposition’s most dangerous forwards.

Background
• Merrett played predominantly touch football and volleyball during his school years on Queensland’s Gold Coast. He later helped a friend by making up numbers in a local AFL match and quickly became fond of this new sport.

• He joined Southport in the AFLQ U18 competition and after trialling a range of positions, found his niche playing in the ruck.

• He was quickly identified as a player of promise, fast-tracked into the AFLQ’s Talent Search program and represented Queensland in the U18 National Championships in 2002.

• The Lions saw great potential in Merrett and selected him as somewhat of a ‘project player’ with their second round selection (Pick No.30 overall) in the 2002 AFL National Draft.

2003
• Merrett’s shone in first season of AFL, playing vital roles up forward in the Lions’ Reserves side – despite having only played Australian Rules football for less than three years total.

• While failed to make a senior appearance, his development was certainly fast-tracked towards a promising AFL career.

• He was rewarded for his efforts with the Lions Reserves side by finishing fourth overall in the AFLQ’s Grogan Medal.

2004
• Merrett’s fledgling career hit its first real hiccups when he was diagnosed with Glandular Fever which forced him to spend the majority of his 2004 campaign watching from the sidelines.

• Although the illness severely restricted his training capabilities, he returned to the field for the Lions Reserves side in their AFLQ Semi Final against Morningside.

2005
• After a carefully planned pre-season, Merrett booted five goals in the Lions’ intra-club practice match, proving that he had overcome his debilitating illness from the previous year.

• It may have taken him two full seasons, but Merrett made up for any lost time by making a memorable senior debut in Round 2 against Port Adelaide at Football Park.

• A massive dust storm just before the bounce, a centre square showdown with Matthew Primus and a near miraculous comeback meant he had plenty of reasons to remember his AFL debut.

• Playing occasionally as a back-up ruckman but mainly as a key forward, Merrett had three double-figure possession games and showed more than enough to suggest his drafting was another astute bit of business by the Lions' recruiting staff.

• On the few occasions he was squeezed back to Reserves level, he responded by kicking plenty of goals including eight in a late-April thrashing of Redland at the Gabba.

• He played 15 matches for a return of 13 goals and polled the maximum three Brownlow votes with a three-goal display against Collingwood in Round 15.

2006
• Merrett suffered a few minor injury and form issues during the first 17 matches of the season which saw him play only four games before returning to play the final five matches in the senior team.

• He was used predominantly as a back-up ruckman or key forward, but when he struggled to kick goals was moved in defence.

• Merrett took to defence like a duck to water and earned the big jobs of St Kilda’s Nick Riewoldt and Sydney’s Barry Hall among others.

• His trial in defence was another masterstroke move from Senior Coach Leigh Matthews and effectively changed the direction of his AFL career path.

2007
• Following the departure of key premiership duo Justin Leppitsch and Mal Michael in 2006, Merrett became the key to the Club’s severely depleted defensive stocks.

• Merrett became the cornerstone of the Lions’ backline and took the scalps of some of the League’s best forwards including Brendan Fevola, Fraser Gehrig, Anthony Rocca and Warren Tredrea.

• According to Champion Data, Merrett conceded only 38 goals In 22 matches – two less than All-Australian full-back Darren Glass – averaging less than two goals per match.

• After playing every match for the season, it came as no surprise that he was recognised by the Club as the winner of both the Most Improved Player and Best Defender awards.

• He completed his breakthrough season with his first ever top ten finish in the Club Champion award.

2008
• Merrett remained the rock in the Lions defence for the second straight season, playing in every match to take his consecutive games total to 47.

• He was entrusted each week by the coaching staff to shut-down the opposition’s most dangerous forward and yet again delivered. He had become noticeably more vocal on the field and developed a great understanding with his fellow defenders.

• At season’s end, he was selected in Queensland’s Team of the Year for the second consecutive season and finished 12th in the Club’s Best and Fairest award.

2009
• Merrett was elevated into the Club’s Leadership Group as one of four Vice-Captains during the off-season following the Lions Football Department’s restructure. It was a fitting reward for the big Queenslander who had gradually developed into one of the team’s most respected players.

• He took on a greater leadership responsibility both on and off the field and remained the Club's lynch-pin down back.

• His importance to the team was tested mid-season when he suffered an ankle injury against the Crows in Round 8 which sidelined him for the next four matches. It was the first time in three seasons that the Lions were without their regular full-back (he had previously played 57 consecutive matches).

• He returned in Round 13 against Melbourne and played the next nine matches until he was troubled by a hamstring injury in Round 21.

• He missed the team's Round 22 match against the Sydney Swans but was passed fit to face Carlton the following week in the Elimination Final at the Gabba - which was coincidentally Merrett's first ever Finals appearance.

• He played a total of 19 matches, averaged a career-best 11.3 disposals and finished 15th in the Club Champion award.

• Merrett was also selected in the Queensland Team of the Year for the third successive season.
http://www.lions.com.au/players/playerprofile/danielmerrett/tabid/5189/playerid/14010/category/senior/season/2009/selected/bio/default.aspx

[Spanner]

Can we fix the spelling of Big Strawb's surname please?

[christicehurst]

Changed

[the_champ33]

He's such a Warewolf

[christicehurst]

He's such a Warewolf


He should play when there's a full moon

[worbsy]

Number 1 for spoils in the league, plays the most gametime of any other player in the AFL so far this year and all of last year.

He has developed into such a reliable player, and always gives 100%.

So glad he's just spoiling these days and not taking on the opposition though. EVERY TIME HE TRIES TO RUN AROUND SOMEONE HE GETS TACKLED! EVERY TIME...

[christicehurst]

Merrett is by far one of our key players for the Lions now.

[worbsy]

Who would you say is our most important player?

I don't think I could decide between Merrett, Brown and Black...

[christicehurst]

It's hard to say. Without Black, Brown would struggle to get the ball. No Merrett and our defense is weaken by alot.

[worbsy]

Black's spot can be taken by Power (with stiller or someone coming into the midfield.)

Clark, Bradshaw, Charman can take Browns spot I guess...

Who besides Merrett can play at full back?

[christicehurst]

Not many could replace Merrett.

[worbsy]

Roe maybe? (when hes not injured, of course)... you need someone with a big body though really.

[the_champ33]

Roe is the only bloke who can play full back. Although Bradshaw could cover it well. But Brennan or Clark would have to play FF. It's a real twist.

[worbsy]

Spose Bradshaw would work, with Clark up at FF.

Hopefully we won't ever have to test the theory though.

[christicehurst]

Roe or Bradshaw for me. Do we lack depth in defense?

[the_champ33]

This question was raised in case Merrett was injured. He is currently suffering knee soreness, but that easily managed between game days.

[worbsy]

Only at full back i reckon now. We have a lot of runners with JMac, Drummond, and now McGrath too, but we also have the spoliers in Roe, Merrett and Patfull. We also have Begley, and we can move players like Copeland, Adcock and Clark back if we need them. I reckon our backline looks alright these days.

[the_champ33]

Our backline is superb. I like the players we have.

Merrett is a made full back now who'll keep getting better.

Plenty of versatile players to cover or be thrown down back.

I'd still like a big man @ CHB just like we did with Leppa & Mal. I just like that look.

[worbsy]

Played a different role this week as backup ruck to Charmo. Only played 51% of the game, which is basically nothing given he had played 100% of the game in virtually every game this year! He did well I thought up the ground a bit, as did Roe at full back. Good coaching for once!

8 disposals, 4 contested at 75% effectiveness.

[the_champ33]

Match-up's were an issue last week.

Merrett will resume @ full back for the next fortnight. The Fev & Punching Hall.

I wonder if our Merrett will cop a punch or attempted one?

[worbsy]

He's got a really good record on Hall.

Like to point out he's number one for one-percenters, I think in the whole comp! Great effort.

[the_champ33]

Improves every week. Close to becoming the best defender in the league in the next 1-2 seasons.

[worbsy]

Dunno about that statement, given the likes of Scarlett, Lake, Bolton, Rutten, Glass, etc. But he's at least as solid at spoiling as they come. Dunno about him as a ruckman though! I prefer Brennan.

[the_champ33]

I prefer Brennan, Clark, Berger in the ruck.

Merrett can occassionally look after the ruck in the backlines and let the normal ruck rest in the centre square.

[worbsy]

Merrett can occassionally look after the ruck in the backlines and let the normal ruck rest in the centre square.

He needs to stay on his opponent, not ruck. Saw that on the weekend. He had goals kicked against him because he was focusing on the ruck opponent, not the forward one.

[the_champ33]

Agreed and why I'm against him doing the ruck duties down back.

[worbsy]

Next year Clark and Berger will be back, and it wont be an issue anyway.

[christicehurst]

He'll be back at his normal job for 2009.

[worbsy]

Hope so. Playing 100% gametime every game at full back.

[Kenyon]

He needs to find a bit more of the ball on a consistent basis. He's no Scarlett, but needs to add another dimension to his game.

[worbsy]

Do you really want the ball in his hands more? lol.... I'd much rather the ball being in Drummond, JayMac and Roe's hands.

[Jedstheman]

He needs to find a bit more of the ball on a consistent basis. He's no Scarlett, but needs to add another dimension to his game.
Worst game the hammer has played in a long time Cloke owned him and the stupid frees given away at start of the fourth killed us.... Dan merret please stick to your man spiol the ball and hand pass to open men as your kicking needs alot of work this coming pre season

[worbsy]

I have bad memories of him trying to take players on and being tackled, every time before he was playing purely full-back. I don't want that to come back into his game!

[b_lions16]

He was playing ruckman in the match against the Dogs.

[worbsy]

Yes, but they don't have Fevola!

[the_champ33]

Fanta pants!

[Jedstheman]

The strawberry sledgehamma can redeem himself and shut Big Bazza out for the game with his fist and spoil spoil spoil as this is his forte go hamma and erase the visions that still huant the nitemares i am having of last weeks game.

[worbsy]

The Swans style of game will suit Merrett, because they move it pretty slowly. Means a lot of passes into the forward 50 will be contested situations.

[Jedstheman]

Kept Barry hall quite most of the nite well done Hamma

[the_champ33]

Fanta Pants did awesome and pissed off Hall.

[Jedstheman]

Dan Merrett got a 5.0 rating for the year from inside football.

[lion4life]

Good season by strawbs. Held us steady at the back.

[the_champ33]

Fanta Pants/Warewolf improves every game and should thrive more in 2009.

[worbsy]

With Magnet being there all year next year alongside our midfield, Merretts job will be easier than it was this year and he'll be as solid as full-backs come in his spoiling.

[Jedstheman]

With Magnet being there all year next year alongside our midfield, Merretts job will be easier than it was this year and he'll be as solid as full-backs come in his spoiling.
The Hamma will get better and better and if the mids lift next year he will have a easier job Worbs.

[Jedstheman]

the hamma has been welcomed into the senior leadership group at the Lions now a vice captian he seems to now be the leader of an improving back six.

[b_lions16]

When facing off opponents like Buddy and Fev, put Big Red on them and spoil every delivery they get.

[lions_girl_4life]

When facing off opponents like Buddy and Fev, put Big Red on them and spoil every delivery they get.
And of course not many other people can do that.

[Spanner]

I reckon he's a great choice for the leadership group. He's developed so far so quickly.

[lions_girl_4life]

I reckon he's a great choice for the leadership group. He's developed so far so quickly.
Couldn't agree more spanner!

[worbsy]

He definitely goes about his footy the right way.

[lions_girl_4life]

He definitely goes about his footy the right way.
And in a great way...

[worbsy]

He's not there to be flashy, he just does his job week in, week out like a pro.

[b_lions16]

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6e/DanielMerrett.jpg (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6e/DanielMerrett.jpg)
^ The Big Red Strawberry ^ :D
Author: Lisa Muir

[Jedstheman]

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6e/DanielMerrett.jpg (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6e/DanielMerrett.jpg)
^ The Big Red Strawberry ^ :D
the hamma has got big guns:eek:

[Jedstheman]

I got to thinking last night and i know alot will disagree with me but I thinks The Hamma could be a future Captian.He goes about his footy in a professional manner is very active in the community is a Queenslander so I don`t ever see him leaving he is getting better as a player each year no doubt he would need help from Jed as his Vice in the middle and someone up forward aswell but I could see him in for the coin toss every week in a few years.................... thoughts anyone?

[lions_girl_4life]

I got to thinking last night and i know alot will disagree with me but I thinks The Hamma could be a future Captian.He goes about his footy in a professional manner is very active in the community is a Queenslander so I don`t ever see him leaving he is getting better as a player each year no doubt he would need help from Jed as his Vice in the middle and someone up forward aswell but I could see him in for the coin toss every week in a few years.................... thoughts anyone?
When you say it like that, I can certainly see the potential he has. But, Jed has potential, I also think Braddy was a little hard done by, I can see that against Browny, the choice is easy, but he definately has leadership qualities. We are very lucky as a side and we have a fantastic leadership group, but also potential leadership in the likes of Strawbs (as captain), Braddy (in the unlikely event Browny hangs the boots up before him), Risky and even this one won't be anywhere near captaincy or vice-captaincy for a few years at the very least, Magnet. We are very lucky in those area's because you see clubs with decent leadership groups, but no-one to pass it on to, or teams with just crap leadership all together.

[worbsy]

One of the reasons I really wanted Ziebell in the draft, he's a captain in-waiting, just like Jack Grimes was the year before.

But we have young leaders ready to go, especially with the likes of Adcock and Merrett. Glass is captain of West Coast, no reason a full back can't be future captain of Brisbane.

[Jedstheman]

Hope he is in for Rd1 we can not afford to have a line-up for real games for Points without this guy word on the street is he will be back but.....I am still a little scared

[lions_girl_4life]

You're not alone on that front Jedda. We need him in our backline because to be honest, we don't have the best defence :(

[the_champ33]

No doubt the wolf man has potential to be a future leader. Currently already a strong communicator in defence and active in the community as mentioned.

[b_lions16]

Well...I reckon he's our future captain. He goes about his footy in a professional way and is a pretty quiet achiever, the likes of Lappin and co. He's our best defender, a solid FB and like most of our defenders (i.e Patful and Drummo), he is mighty underrated.

[lions_girl_4life]

How many years has he been playing?

[b_lions16]

He's been playing for about 7 years now, got drafted in 2002.

[Kenyon]

With respect Lions girl,our d is better than our attack - the score or lack of it proves that.

[worbsy]

True, our defence has turned into possibly the strongest facet of our game. Our midfield struggled a bit last year, our ruck really struggled and we had 2 lone hands up forward. Down back we have 8 or so guys that really do a solid job.

[lion4life]

People were criticising our defense as the weak link in our team. By looking at the clearance stats from last year you could easily tell the midfield was our weak link. The forward line had no curmbers who contributed more goals so we solely relied on B + B

[lions_girl_4life]

According to the stats I agree with you on the midfield but you look we have potential in Richie and Magnet, experience in Blacky and Power.

[b_lions16]

In my opinion, our strongest link is probably our defense with Patful, JayMac, Ranga, Drummo, etc. But I reckon we are too top heavy with our rebounders. 2/6 defenders are stationaries while everyone else are quality rebounders. And that big gap in CHF...don't get me started. ;)
Our weakest link would probably be the forward line, I mean, sure we've got the Twins up forward, but if you rip 'em out of the line-up, we do not have anyone that will fill the FF and CHF space. I mean Charmo could be plonked down in FF, but ruck duties call. ;) Oh, and the ruck is suffering big issues ATM. ;)

[worbsy]

I reckon the ruck is our weakest link. Charmo needs help and Berger is always injured or on the bench.

We have a CHB, and hes a star Scotty! lol

We have 3 stoppers, Merrett, Patfull and Roe. But I guess Roe doesn't get on the field much either these days.

[b_lions16]

Platts isn't the genuine CHF you would think for, don't get me wrong, I don't wanna cop a bashing, but being a tad bit undersized and not the type that just stays there, he might not be the most ideal, but it's the best we have ATM. :)

[Kenyon]

Roe must be persisted with. He frees up Patful, kicks magnificently & has proven capable of beating key forwards. His problems have stemmed from constant injuries which effects his consistency. I have him at CHB in our strongest 22.

[worbsy]

I'd be happy to see Roe as our main CHB. He only has 2cm on Patfull though. We really need Henderson to be fast tracked, because at 196cm he seems the best prospect there. Until he gets his body to the size it needs to be though, I don't know who is our best bet. I still like Patfull there for now, but Roe can certainly play.

[b_lions16]

Hendo is only in his 2nd year now, and throwing him in a key position like CHB espcially with his tendecy to turn the ball over in defence is certainly not a good idea. He's got 6cm over Platts, and easily could fill it, but consistentcy on the ball MUST improve...lol ;)

[lions_girl_4life]

What I think will happen is Hendo gets a bit more game time, a few more skills, a bit more consistency at the ball and he will be at CHB by next season most likely.

[Jedstheman]

Rocca got stitched up by the Hamma like Stiller did his job and also got a few possies going away his decision making and foot disposal has also improved solid game.

[christicehurst]

Merrett is becoming the solid player we need in many others. If Adcock wan't around he could be a future captain.

[b_lions16]

Rocca got stitched up by the Hamma like Stiller did his job and also got a few possies going away his decision making and foot disposal has also improved solid game.
At least Strawbs didn't pull a Zac Dawson. :D
He kept the big boy quiet, and if he didn't Rocca is VERY capable of destroying teams with his marking and he can definitely kick a 70+m bomb from outside 50.

[worbsy]

Rocca is hardly in his prime these days though!

Yet another solid outing by Merrett, and as you say Jedda, I reckon his disposal by foot has improved too.

Actually, I think his disposal in general has improved, and even his decision making is on the up.
Don't ever get injured, Merrett! He is vital to our side.

Get some games into Collier and Henderson now so we can decide who could play that full-back role when Merrett is missing.

[b_lions16]

16 disposals @ 100% Disposal Efficiency...tells you all. :D

[worbsy]

He provided some nice run too, it was his possibly best game in a while I thought.

[lions_girl_4life]

Was in the best players section, great effort from the VC

[Balony_pony16]

About time Big Red put away his Spoiling at times and took some marks...his rebound to break the zone was awesome

[Jedstheman]

He was good Vossy would of said to him run off Simmo at any given Chance his disposal was good and has really surprised me this year............. when he is given the ball I no longer worry like I used too.

[worbsy]

PLUS, he was on the sunday footy show this morning and he said a local radio station call him "The Rusty Fist". I like that. lol

[Balony_pony16]

He is kicking the ball awesome this season and has ready making a impact in games now. I love his leadership aswell

[b_lions16]

Just tell him not to run with the ball! He has no sense of direction and runs the ball out of bounds in the wet. :D

[b_lions16]

JONATHAN Brown, Simon Black, Luke Power . . . and Daniel Merrett. The first three names are among the AFL elite. And they would be the first picked by Brisbane Lions (http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/sport/afl/club/0,26579,19746,00.html) coach Michael Voss each week. Merrett would be the fourth.
It was these men, who, along with Jed Adcock, make up the Lions' leadership group, that drew the line in the sand to deliver Brisbane a season-defining victory over Richmond on Saturday (http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/sport/afl/story/0,26576,25452663-5015495,00.html).
The Lions started poorly but were able to turn an early 25-point deficit into a 26-point victory.
"I think they really stood up. I spoke to them at quarter-time and they were pretty positive in their messages that we could turn it around," Voss said.
"And they really took the onus on themselves.
"Our leadership group has really grown over the course of the year and is really starting to understand what is required and what they can and can't do out there."
Brown crashed contests across half-forward when the ball came in high and long, and he led hard and often, providing a barrel-chested target for Black, who used his silky skills and incredible vision to spoon-feed his forwards.
Power, better known for his ability to influence a match with a running goal, changed the course of this clash with an act of courage.
Running back hard with the flight of the ball, Power leapt into the path of Tiger Jack Riewoldt and plucked a mark from the barnstorming forward's hands.
"That effort of Luke Power was just an absolutely outstanding mark," Voss said.
While the three stars attracted plaudits from commentators and columnists alike, internally Merrett's contribution was considered just as pivotal.
He was once just a one-on-one defender who you could trust to give his all in stopping his direct opponent, but not expect too much more from him.
Now he marshals the defence, leaves his opponent to be the second or third man in aerial contests and provides much underrated rebound from the back 50.
One such run on Saturday in which he tucked the ball under his arm, had a bounce and booted it long and straight to Brown, led to a goal that helped changed the course of the match.
"I wanted to become that type of player," Merrett said.
"It has been a natural progression, maybe some maturity and I'm gaining more confidence in myself and the people around me.
"And I'm more confident with the ball in hand, it was something I've really worked hard on."
Voss paid tribute to Merrett's determination to improve and said he had taken his game to a new level.
"He is making good decisions, he is kicking the ball really well and adding some attacking rebound, oppositions just can't leave him alone any more," Voss said.
"He is able to support his defenders and go third up, that is the area he has really added to his game, he doesn't just shut down his own opponent." http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/sport/afl/story/0,26576,25458519-19746,00.html

[lions_girl_4life]

Gotta love the boys.

[lion4life]

Injured in the game yesterday (foot i think) and is listed as a test to take his place next week

[b_lions16]

Vossy said he was fine this morning in the PC...right for next week I reckon...but to take it easy. ;)

[lions_girl_4life]

He better be right for next week - we will need him at his best.

[b_lions16]

He better be right for next week - we will need him at his best.
Especially on Riewoldt. ;)

[lions_girl_4life]

God yes - Riewoldt is scary when he is form but I think we scared him enough (sook)

[christicehurst]

Gone for a few weeks! Two to four weeks which is very bad for us. But always interesting to see how we fare without them.

[worbsy]

Not against Riewoldt and Koschitzka, Chris! We'll get slaughtered. And against Hawthorn, LOL

[b_lions16]

Recalled this week after he completed the Training Session this afternoon. Will have to take on Roughie...and I expect Buddy o EXPLOIT the Henderson match-up. :p

[lions_girl_4life]

*Sigh of relief* We need Strawbs.. There really is no chance to have Drummo or Platters back is there? :(

[worbsy]

Merrett isn't in the side is he?

Loss looms, but it'll be a good test. Particularly interested to see how Hendo and Roe go with big jobs.

[b_lions16]

Merrett isn't in the side is he?

Loss looms, but it'll be a good test. Particularly interested to see how Hendo and Roe go with big jobs.
Late call-up for Roe...he's the only one that can play FB, I reckon, cuz he's the only one with the body and height! :D

[lions_girl_4life]

But does he have the skills??

[worbsy]

He certainly does! Stitched up Franklin, and he's a great kick.

[lions_girl_4life]

I admit - I was skeptical before the game but it was a fan-bloody-tastic effort on him. Hendo did pretty well on ROughead as well.

[worbsy]

Knew Hendo would, I can't believe JayMac played on Fev instead of Hendo taking the job.

Merrett coming back in will be a huge boost to our defensive leadership, as well as being a superb big-man stopper.

[lions_girl_4life]

He is gonna make a difference but I'm amazed at how well our defence held up while he and Patters were injured!

[worbsy]

We have one of the best and most underrated defences in the game. A bit of depth there too, apparently!!!

Take a look at our "against" scores on the ladder compared to other sides. We are about the 3rd or 4th best for least points conceded!

[lions_girl_4life]

And, even better, we don't rely on one or two players to shoulder the majority of the workload.

[worbsy]

Although our 2 biggest ball-winners weren't really a surprise!

Power and Black.

[christicehurst]

I like to see the other mids standing up if Black and Power can't

[lions_girl_4life]

We're getting better at not having to rely on certain people for all the work in one position.

[worbsy]

He did alright as pinch-hitter in the ruck. Had that brilliant tap down straight to Rich who instantly goalled.

[lions_girl_4life]

He did a very good job in his comeback from injury game.

[worbsy]

Will he line up on Tredrea this week?

[b_lions16]

Tredrea or even big Lade if he plays FF like he did last week.

[worbsy]

Henderson could take Lade if he drifts forward I reckon. You'd play Merrett on the strongest forward I reckon, and that'd be Tredders IMO. Lade is still a giant, but Tredrea is more dangerous.

[Balony_pony16]

Henderson could take Lade if he drifts forward I reckon. You'd play Merrett on the strongest forward I reckon, and that'd be Tredders IMO. Lade is still a giant, but Tredrea is more dangerous.

yeah, you only need high against lade these days as he is on his last legs...the guy can't run and won't find himself 1-1 too often

[worbsy]

He's still a dangerous tap-ruckman, but only when Shaun Burgoyne is beneath him, and that hasnt happened much at all this year with Burger out with that knee.

[Jedstheman]

http://mpegmedia.abc.net.au/news/audio/news-audio/200908/20090805-sport-merrett.mp3


Nice audio interveiw with The Strawberry Sledgehammer

[worbsy]

I prefer "The Rusty Fist" :D

[christicehurst]

i love him as a player and surprised to see this thread doesn't get much mancrush love!

[worbsy]

His mark last week DOES deserve a mention here... way to kick Heath Shaw in the head!!

Really was a great mark... but I'd prefer if he never went forward. He was horrible until he became a defender, so bloody keep him there! Send Brennan forward instead.

[Balony_pony16]

I agree...keep him down back!

[b_lions16]

It was suckarse that he didn't get a Nom for MOTY.
With Bradshaw's return...he should play a full-game down back and shut down Lucas!
(Even if it doesn't take much...he could do the job on Neagle as he is in red hot form, ATM ;))

[Kenyon]

Yep, only place for Rog is down back. #1 spoiler in the game. Voss & co need to stop these silly experiments in big games. Consider what the score may have been at half time last Sat had Rog been at FB the entire game & Brennan had played forward! We were so good in the 1st half we may have broken there back.

[Balony_pony16]

Yep, only place for Rog is down back. #1 spoiler in the game. Voss & co need to stop these silly experiments in big games. Consider what the score may have been at half time last Sat had Rog been at FB the entire game & Brennan had played forward! We were so good in the 1st half we may have broken there back.

spot on...Voss really had some brain explosions in the box like in the Port game

[Kenyon]

Leigh was slow to make moves so Voss has improved there, but still leaves things too long. As for experiments, OK, but dont tamper with your spine unless desperate measures are needed. Surely we told Collingwood we were worried by playing Rog up front to start?

[worbsy]

Leigh was slow to make moves so Voss has improved there, but still leaves things too long. As for experiments, OK, but dont tamper with your spine unless desperate measures are needed. Surely we told Collingwood we were worried by playing Rog up front to start?

At least, more often than not, Leigh brought in the right guys in the first place!
Sheldon shouldn't be in this week, and Rockliff shouldn't have debuted in such a huge game, the same week that the Hawk came back (but I like having Hawksley in there). We need to give Hawk a chance to prove himself.

[blackyismyboy]

Putting Merrett up forward kinda worked until we lost our shit in the second half.

[lions_girl_4life]

He is an option as a big forward when Braddy is out (if he is again)

[blackyismyboy]

It's kinda a bonus that he used to be a forward - at least he knows what he's doing most of the time.

[lions_girl_4life]

Instead of a few others who have never played there before in their lives

[blackyismyboy]

Exactly. I thought it was a good move by Vossy. It showed he had a lot of faith in our backline.

[lions_girl_4life]

They held up pretty well without him for the first half.

[blackyismyboy]

And Merrett himself managed to get a few good marks, but his accuracy wasn't all the great I don't think.

[lions_girl_4life]

In Inside Footy, the said this about his game: Kicked the first goal of the game and took a brilliant mark. That was about it.

[blackyismyboy]

That was a brilliant mark wasn't it. :D Maybe he just had 'presence' lmao.'

[lions_girl_4life]

16 studs to the back of Heath Shaws head was enough make me smile, but when he actually marked, I was well and truely grinning.

[blackyismyboy]

Did he get nominated for it? He better have!

[lions_girl_4life]

I haven't heard the nominations this week, I'll look for it??

[blackyismyboy]

Just checked myself. He didn't get nominated. What do you have to do to get nominated around here?!

[lions_girl_4life]

A hell of a frigging lot apparently. Merret is always forgotten by the refs and such

[blackyismyboy]

God, did you see the other nominations?! Particularly Maxwell's! To me none of them looked as good as Merrett's. What do you think?

[lions_girl_4life]

I think it is bullshit. Merret is another one of our players that is seriously underrated.

[blackyismyboy]

Thems the brakes. Maybe it's the the 'Pies player getting nominated ahead of Merrett that's really annoying me. Most of our team is underrated anyway. Pretty sure Drummo would be a star if he played in Vic.

[lions_girl_4life]

I have to agree with you on all counts there mate.

[lions_girl_4life]

Not his worst game tonight. Only nine touches, but solid defensive times.

[Jedstheman]

made a couple of questionsable decisions with the ball not the worst but not the best.

[lions_girl_4life]

Just plain average. We don't want average - we want spectacular!

[miloman]

looks like big saucehead is out for 1 -2 weeks, which is huge loss. He is def needed by the lions if we are going do any damage in the finals.

[b_lions16]

He won't play next week but he'll be right for the 1st weeks of Finals, IMO. Tyler is the key position player that has been holding down the FB position for SunnyCoast...but too many kids are weighing us down. Take your pick...Henderson, Roe or Tyler?

[Jedstheman]

He won't play next week but he'll be right for the 1st weeks of Finals, IMO. Tyler is the key position player that has been holding down the FB position for SunnyCoast...but too many kids are weighing us down. Take your pick...Henderson, Roe or Tyler?

Hendo must come in for big red he is the answer or I was thinking today Burger comes back plays the ruck with Mitch ......................Then JayMac and Mitch take turns on White

[miloman]

would they play another debutant, in tyler.......personally roe and henderson should play.
What about Cornellius????

[b_lions16]

Yeah...forgot about Cornelius...he'll come in because of the scintillating form over the past month in the Reserves. ;)

[lions_girl_4life]

I just watched a clip of him against the Saints and he will fit in quite nicely

[Balony_pony16]

would they play another debutant, in tyler.......personally roe and henderson should play.
What about Cornellius????

I think henderson should play in place of merrett as he can deal with the bigger bodies better then Roe. I would like to see Roe come in to free up drummond from defense, but I don't think Voss is that keen to move him full time out of defense.

Cornellius would be great as a med tall in attack, and there are heaps of players who haven't cemented their positions which he can replace

[lions_girl_4life]

I'm having a blank - who are their best forwards again?

[Balony_pony16]

They have mickey playing his last game, and a new tall forward who is playing really good (name? White?)...I believe they rotate alot of players through the forward line. Oh, and they have ROK who is playing good footy

[b_lions16]

Get Patfull to tag Goodes...and MacDonald and McGrath to rotate around with ROK. Jesse White will be a toughie as he can push up the ground and we need someone to follow him...suppose Cornelius/Henderson. Micky O?...Well, I guess he can be loose although he can be very dangerous, but I would do something like the same as ROK.

[Balony_pony16]

wells pats need a number on goodes last time if I remember correctly ;)

[Kenyon]

Hendo must come in for big red he is the answer or I was thinking today Burger comes back plays the ruck with Mitch ......................Then JayMac and Mitch take turns on White

No J'ro, Roe must come in, which means Hendo will come in.

[Balony_pony16]

No J'ro, Roe must come in, which means Hendo will come in.

I think J Roe should come in for a tired sheldon...hendo for Big Red

[b_lions16]

Strawbs should be included this arvo and get the big job on Fev the Courier Mail reports. ;)

[Jedstheman]

Rusty Fist will play............... Bank that baby;)

[worbsy]

He'll play. It's finals, and he's had his rest!

[lions_girl_4life]

He has been named as likely

[Jedstheman]

News

Risks brought the reward: Merrett

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/merrett_f1_a.jpg
Daniel Merrett kept Blues' spearhead Brendan Fevola to just three goals on Saturday night

By Mic Whiting 12:13 PM Sun 06 September, 2009



BRISBANE Lions full-back Daniel Merrett has revealed some well chosen words from coach Michael Voss at three-quarter time helped inspire Saturday night’s big comeback win over Carlton.

Merrett, who overcame a hamstring injury to take his place in the side, was outstanding in victory, but said the coach hit the right mark with his final address.

The home team trailed by 24 points at the last break, then 30 just two minutes in before the stunning revival.

“He reminded us about pre-season and do we want to put all that hard work in pre-season to jump out first week of the finals,” Merrett said of Voss’s address.

“We had nothing to lose, he just said `boys, no fear, take the game on, what have you got to lose’ and I think that’s when we play our best footy.

“We have the tendency to play safe footy and then once we get in that state where it’s now or never, we play our best footy and that’s just the spirit of the group".

Despite being under his injury cloud for most of the week, the Lions vice-captain said he was always confident of playing.

In his seventh season at the club, and with his first finals appearance on the line, he was not going to miss out.

And once into the contest, the defensive pillar led from the front, keeping Brendan Fevola to just nine possessions, five marks and three goals for the night.

“He’s super quick and he’s got super strong hands so I just try and put as much body pressure on him as possible and make him earn his marks,” Merrett said.

“With Brendan you’ve got to try and keep him down as much as possible because once he gets that one mark or kicks that long goal, he’s up and going again and he can put three or four on the board pretty quickly.

“They’re always going to try and hit him up, you can’t relax.”

Merrett said it was the best win he had been involved with at the Lions, and came as a result of the group having faith they could turn things around.

He said after being under pressure for most of the third quarter, the Lions’ defence had no energy to run the ball, but were able to change things in the last term.

Merrett said fellow vice captain Simon Black’s effort to beat a hamstring injury and play a remarkable role in the win was inspirational.

“I thought Blacky was gone three or four times, every time I looked at the big screen it looked like he was hobbling around but he’s just a warrior and you love playing alongside him.

“He just fought the game out. I’m definitely glad he’s in my team.” Exclusive to AFL BigPond Network

[brandon]

merret was very good last night

made roe look like an under 18's player
roe is shit house

gotta love the strawbs

[blackyismyboy]

He did a great job on Fev. I don't think anyone but him could've done the same.

Agreement on Roe.

[miloman]

Great game, he also seemed to be running up the ground a bit more.
But greta game

[lions_girl_4life]

Keeping him to three goals wqas fantastic, Fev could have been a match winner but Mighty Merret kept him down

[b_lions16]

Daniel Merrett: The five games he missed through injury cost him a grade. Is a ferocious competitor who has the pace and strength to stand up to the competition's best forwards. His execution has improved but he still can commit some horror turnovers. Rating: 7

[Balony_pony16]

Like Patful, his form dropped off at the end of the season, but can likely be brought down to injury. I was really impressed with his leadership this season which was proberly a key reason why our defense kept coming back from big margains behind late in games...he always marshalled the defense when the going got tough

7 is a good score for him

[lions_girl_4life]

He is a real good fella to have in our back six

[b_lions16]

Lions Vice-Captain Daniel Merrett will be making a guest appearance at this Sunday's (8 November) CitySmart GreenHeart Fair @ the Mt Gravatt Showgrounds.

This 'sustainable living' event will run from 10am to 3pm and showcase energy and water efficient products and services, clever waste management and an array of eco-friendly and healthy products.

Daniel Merrett is attending to help conduct activities with younger visitors to promote participation in sport and more active, healthier lives. The aim is to encourage kids to get out and about more with a 'Kids Hub' full of participatory displays such as rock climbing and a jumping castle. There will also be a colouring competition the kids can enter on the day.

'Rog' will be giving some technical tips, speaking about getting fit, and kicking a footy around with interested AFL fans.

The event is being hosted by the Brisbane City Council's CitySmart team to encourage residents to look at reducing carbon emissions by examining their transport patterns and the products they purchase, and also how to become more active and healthy.

The event will focus on sustainability and feature an entertainment stage with locals and Troy Cassar-Daley as the headline, a cooking demonstration stage with celebrity chef Peter Howard and some school children who will discuss watching 'food miles'.

Brisbane's southside GreenHeart Fair is on at the Mt Gravatt Showgrounds (Logan Road, Mt Gravatt) this Sunday 8 November from 10am to 3pm.
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/86594/default.aspx

[lions_girl_4life]

Name: Daniel Merrett

Your earliest football memory is: Being scared of the Brisbane Bears mascot

Best mark you have taken at any level of football: When I imprinted my boot into Heath Shaw’s head

Best goal: The one against Collingwood last year

Where were you on the day you were drafted: At home on the couch

First person you called after you were drafted: Mum

The hardest part of pre-season training: Rope

Favourite training drill: I can’t think of one

If you could play another professional sport, it would be: Surfing

Sports teams you support (non-AFL): Baltimore Orioles

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you: I love the Twilight series

Life motto: What goes around comes around

What dish would you serve up if you were on MasterChef: Home-made pizza

Where is the furthest you have been from home: Tahiti

Most environmentally conscious teammate: Xavier Clarke

Teammate most likely to Google his own name: Browny

Teammate most likely to go into politics after football: Bart McCulloch

What rules you more - your heart or your head: Heart

Do you prefer a planned event or an unplanned event: Unplanned

The last concert you went to: Phoenix

Your favourite cricketer: Chris Gayle

French fries or wedges: Wedges

Speedos or boardshorts: Boardshorts

What’s on your iPod: Kid Cudi


Another Fanpire!

[blackyismyboy]

Oh good lord, Merrett, Twilight? Really?! I snorted out him being scared of the Brisbane Bears mascot. :p

[lions_girl_4life]

At least he has a sense of humour lol

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/merrett_profile-c.jpg

[LionsGalSA]

Oh good lord, Merrett, Twilight? Really?! I snorted out him being scared of the Brisbane Bears mascot. :p
that bit about the mascott was so cute :D

[lions_girl_4life]

Yeah.. I loved that line from him, and the Twilight thing... LOL!

[Jedstheman]

http://www.brisbanelionsunited.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=297&stc=1&d=1265079651

[Hayley]

http://i45.tinypic.com/1j14yp.png

[b_lions16]

Extreme Queensland weather conditions may have forced the Lions to take a ‘raincheck’ on their first ‘home’ match of the pre-season, but Vice-Captain Daniel Merrett has refused to let the Club's pre-season schedule change put a dampener on the team’s upcoming practice game against Geelong.

Initial plans had the Lions facing reigning premiers Geelong at Southport this Friday before the Gold Coast ground’s soggy condition forced the match to be moved to Visy Park in Melbourne this Saturday.

It will be the third consecutive week that the Lions have travelled interstate during their 2010 pre-season campaign.

Former Southport Sharks product Merrett was particularly looking forward to returning to his old AFL stomping ground.

“Yeah, I’m a little disappointed,” Merrett said on Thursday. “It would have been nice to head back to the old home ground at Southport where I played U18s.”

“But with the weather we’ve had this week, there’s nothing we can do.”

“We just have to roll with the punches and are now looking forward to the challenge of heading back down to Visy Park and playing the Cats.”

Merrett preferred to look at the positives from the unexpected rain and schedule change.

“We’ve been able to get a fair bit of practice in the wet now,” he said. “So if we play games in the wet during the year, we really should be used to it.”

“The move also gives our Melbourne supporters another chance to see us in the flesh again.”

The full-back will have to wait another week before returning to his old home to play at Southport with the Lions scheduled to play Hawthorn on the Gold Coast on Friday 12 March at 3:30pm in their final NAB Challenge match of the pre-season.

“At least we get to play the Hawks down there next week which will be good for our members and supporters in Queensland and on the Gold Coast.”
http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/90219/default.aspx

[b_lions16]

http://mm.afl.com.au/Portals/0/images/clubs/lions/merrett_preseason-l.jpg