Before I initiate this blog I will add I'm still on a high following on from last nights almighty win!
There’s something exciting brewing at this footy club — a clear shift in direction, driven by a bold commitment to youth, accountability, and some smart recruitment. I applaud Ryles and his coaching stuff for this.
I liken it to opening the windows when you enter a stuffy motel room to let some fresh air in.
Despite this I'm still realistic & I don't have high expectations on our finishing position this year.
I've been highly critical of MON & club management to date, in my eyes they now have the perfect opportunity to make amends & build a successful future for our club.
The club appears to be taking decisive steps to reshape its identity. Gone are the days of holding onto aging stars or players who weren’t pulling their weight. Instead, there’s a renewed focus on building around a core group of promising young players who bring energy, hunger, and a strong team-first mindset. These emerging talents are not only lifting standards on the field but also reshaping the culture off it.
The tough calls have already been made.
Now, the next 6 to 12 months become critical. The club can’t afford to splurge or chase big names for headlines. Instead, the focus must be on astute signings — players who fit the long-term vision, fill key positional needs, and enhance the existing culture. Think proven performers with leadership qualities or undervalued players ready to take the next step in the right system.
If we miss out on the signing of Galvin, I'll be disappointed however there is opportunity for the taking going forward. MON here is your chance.
Replies
Dare to dream man I think this side can make the 8 if they can eliminate the errors.Another thing we also need not to see is continue the defensive consistency.The last month needs to be our baseline not our ceiling.
Like you mentioned it's also great to see the youth movement coming through and the growth.
But for me this year is based on defense if we continue to see improvement there we are in with a big chance of making the 8.
The opportunity is there if we are good enough to take it.
Well said Coryn, how good would it be if we made the 8!!
Yes I agree re:defence. Was evident again last night, was great to watch.
JR set the tone from day one. He's been laser focused on culture. Last night in the presser he spoke about Jnr Paulo and said that Jnr epitomises everything we want our club to be. Tough, team first, works hard and is a family man. Family man, I thought that's a big statement from the coach and I don't think I've ever heard a coach use that as a quality of what he wants our club to be. But as a family man myself I get it and it's a great statement. The club's focus on culture is the engine that's driving this positive change. With the right additions this team could become extremely competitive quickly.
cough ! cough ! how much for a pound ?
Yes there are many great signs and we have been playing well for over a month even the losses to the Dolphins and Sharks were not bad. However we cant deny how poor Manly were and Jake helped us out a lot and too a lesser extent an injured and down on form Turbo. We got an epic two weeks coming up .....Penrith and the Dogs if we can snag one then yes we may make the 8 or to a lesser extent not get the spoon. These kids did great but consistency is going to be their test this year . I think MOMAX coming our of Origin unscathed and their effects on the team playing more together will also matter alot tot he teams success now and moving forward.