It’s really getting that serious for the Canterbury Bulldogs, a side that has so far notched only 3 wins in 2010 – after a mammoth 2009 where they nearly went all the way.
Kevin Moore was last years Dally M Coach of the year, Hannant was happy and firing, it was vintage Noddy and Ennis was full of mongrel.
Who knows where things have changed so drastically?
Hannant has packed his bags, Noddy is out of touch and Ennis is certainly no menace on opposing sides at the moment.
Admittedly, the Bulldogs engine room hasn’t been as potent thus far in 2010, making the jobs of Kimmorley and the playmakers that much harder.
Their strike weapon Morris has had his problems with injury as have the forward pack for the Dogs.
But while there are many questions hanging over the club and plenty of excuses – there is one thing I seem confident of, the Dogs of war are long overdue.
No other side seems to galvanize as well as the Dogs under intense pressure.
They were expected to romp home over an understrength Melbourne side, but yet another loss has inflicted more pain.
Coach Kevin Moore has called on old mate Steve Waugh to say a few words to the players – trying to keep them calm under pressure.
But is the softly spoken Waugh the answer? Maybe a cameo speech by a former hardman like Mark Bugden would help them aim-up right now.
Calls for more mongrel from the Bulldogs are long overdue, their stellar run last year was on the back of a big, bustling and aggressive forward pack.
Struggling for spark and creativity in attack behind a spluttering pack, too much has fallen on veteran Kimmorley’s shoulders – with partner Ben Roberts out of action at the moment.
Blake Green is no mug, but his combination with Kimmorley is taking time.
Despite their struggle thus far, I think everyone will see the Dogs of War come rumbling out against the Tigers on Friday night.