Minson put on notice

[Ricochet]

http://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/western-bulldogs-ruckman-will-minson-under-threat-as-form-slump-plagues-all-australian/story-fndv8weh-1226952440020

WILL Minson's fall from grace has put his hold on the Western Bulldogs' lead ruck position under threat.

One of the AFL's premier big men is on notice to lift his output against Collingwood at Etihad Stadium on Sunday or face rare selection pressure after his form slump hit a low point last weekend.

Minson was last year's All-Australian ruckman, falling only 18 hit-outs short of Gary Dempsey's all-time hit-outs record (860). He finished third in the club's best and fairest.

But the 29-year was beaten by Brisbane Lions' third-string back-up ruckman Stefan Martin on Saturday night, raising fresh concerns about Minson's ongoing form and ability to handle the first rucking duties.

Coach Brendan McCartney has made it clear he is looking to Minson and the rest of the senior leaders for a response against the Pies on Sunday.

McCartney yesterday said it was not just the younger players dealing with a lack of confidence.

"The whole group feel that a bit. Experience tells me it's not just young people who get doubts but senior players," McCartney said.

"We've got some of our older boys who are probably down a bit on confidence and they can maybe get themselves out of it, but as a group here we never shy away from our inadequacies, but we are always working on our player strengths."

While the club is aware its first-choice big man has manfully shouldered a huge load over the past two seasons as the Dogs' lead ruckman, his spot in the senior team is not guaranteed.

It is understood the alarm was first raised about Minson after he completed only a modest pre-season, although he has been hampered by a back complaint.

[Rusty00]

According to SC/AF/DT they don't have another ruckman on their list :o

[Ricochet]

lol yeh wtf. Both Cordy and Campbell are fwds

[Nige]

Surely McCartney's just trying to scare him and won't do it.

They'll get pummeled even worse if the drop Wilbur.

[Vinny]

Yeah not sure if Doggies are serious. Think they have ruck depth haha