Victory proves who's the Voss

Brisbane smash Carlton in the final quarter to win NAB Cup.

Lions coach Michael Voss and AFL chief Andrew Demetriou after Brisbane's super impressive win in the NAB Cup grand final. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Brisbane Lions midfielder Dayne Zorko celebrates a goal. Picture: Andrew Tauber Source: Herald Sun

AS A player, Michael Voss expected perfection, personally and from teammates.

As a coach, it's taken time for that same stamp to be noticable - but make no mistake, signs are becoming evident.

From the Brisbane coach's viewpoint, a disturbingly large gap between old and new Lions still exists.

But when it works, look out.

The Lions won the NAB Cup by 40 points last night on the back of two stellar periods of football that, in simple terms, Carlton couldn't match.

The Blues, who themselves had some exciting patches, wouldn't be troubled long-term with their rivals seemingly more advanced in their unbeaten pre-season preparation.

But these understated Lions have pieces of the next top-flight puzzle coming together.

The arrival of Stefan Martin combined with the bigger and fitter presence of Aaron Cornelius not only gives Brisbane's forward line more structure, it permits Daniel Merrett to stay at home in the key defensive post.

In turn, Matt Maguire and Joel Patfull are shuffled down the defensive totem pole, with Jed Adcock and the ultra-impressive Pearce Hanley free to swoop on more balls brought to ground.

NAB cup grand final. Carlton v Brisbane @ Etihad Stadium in Melbourne.Lions Jonathan Brown goes for a mark against Jamison Picture: Tauber Andrew Source: Herald Sun

But it's when the next phase of play across half-back links up with Daniel Rich and Dayne Zorko that these Lions become killers.

Time and again last night, the Lions swept the ball the length of the ground with July-like precision.

Jonathan Brown (five goals) and Patrick Karnezis (21 disposals, one goal before being subbed at the final change) are the principal targets on the rampage, but Josh Green (three goals) has that Cyril Rioli-like capacity to alter games with minimal possessions whether off his own boot or setting up others.

There were times last night, whether through increased intensity or Brisbane lapses, when the Blues impressed.

Kane Lucas and Kade Simpson were running standouts, while Mitch Robinson appeared the Blues' barometer with his typically bullocking style augmented by some incisive forward forays.

But with Chris Judd underdone and the influence of new skipper Marc Murphy limited, the Lions midfield held sway.

NAB Cup,Grand Final,Carlton v Brisbane,Chris Judd tackled by Brent Moloney, Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: Herald Sun

They shot the reluctant visitors out of the gate to a 27-point lead 23 minutes into the first term, before two of those lapses Voss must eradicate to make them a top team cost them two supergoals on wraparound plays for Bryce Gibbs and Zach Tuohy either side of quarter-time.

The Blues edged out to a 13-point lead at the long break, but when the Lions rebooted the game plan - particularly across half-back - the Blues were blown away.

At halftime, Carlton had managed 14 scoring shots to 12.

By game's end, the Blues had managed just six more compared to Brisbane's 17.

Hanley, the Irishman whose knowledge of the game's finer points continues to both advance and amaze, was brilliant across half-back.

He and co-captain Adcock are a lethal springboard combination against whom opposition coaches must guard.

Because when they look further afield now, it's not just Jack Redden and Tom Rockliff, it's Rohan Bewick, Brent Moloney and the destructive Zorko and Rich who help diffuse attention from Brown.

NAB cup grand final. Carlton v Brisbane @ Etihad Stadium in Melbourne.A jubilant Lions after the win Picture: Tauber Andrew Source: Herald Sun

Carlton will be better for the run.

It shouldn't be forgotten that the Blues are still building and were far from rampant victors in their early NAB Cup rounds.

Bryce Gibbs showed flashes of the impact he will have in the midfield this year, while Michael Jamison already looks fitter than in recent seasons at full-back.

Make no mistake, though, this won't be the last time the Lions salute in big games this year.

It's folly to suggest a NAB Cup trophy is a guarantee of something bigger.

But you can see Voss' imprint - and it's impressive.

NAB Cup,Grand Final,Carlton v Brisbane,Stefan Martin tackles Bryce Gibbs, Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: Herald Sun

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Nicoski blow for the Eagles

Mark Nicoski is injured again. Picture: Justin Benson-cooper Source: DT Sport Alpha Magazine

WEST Coast veteran Mark Nicoski has been placed back on the long-term injury list as he battled to recover from major hamstring surgery.

Nicoski, 29, missed the entire 2012 season after ripping the muscle off the bone and damaging the tendon in last year's NAB Cup.

The Eagles said it was not a setback, rather they were taking a cautious approach with the crafty midfielder.

Nicoski said he would be unavailable until Round 7 but had a rehabilitation program drawn up by the club's medical staff.

"There has not been a setback perse, it's just a matter of backing it off a little over the next couple of months, managing and manipulating my training loads," he said.

"I will be placed on the long-term injury list during that period and I look forward to having a positive impact on the West Coast Eagles season after that time."

The Eagles have not promoted a rookie.

Nicoski joins Matt Rosa on the injury list, who has been ruled out for six weeks with a thigh injury.

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AFL pre-season matches wrap

Gary Ablett appeals for a free kick as the Suns beat the Dees. Picture: Adam Head Source: HWT Image Library

THE Suns beat the Dees, Hawthorn broke its pre-season duck and a Roo was placed on report. Get a full wrap of all of today's AFL pre-season matches here.

RICHMOND 148 (92) def WESTERN BULLDOGS 12.11 (83) at Visy Park

A BURST of last-quarter domination from Tigers rookie Sam Lonergan ignited Richmond to a nine-point win against the Western Bulldogs in a hotly contested match at Visy Park today.

Both sides fielded near full-strength sides as a proper tune-up for Round 1, and the Dogs controlled most of the match before Lonergan separated the sides.

Richmond v Western Bulldogs at Visy park, Sam Lonergan crash's into Luke Dahlhaus Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: HWT Image Library

The former Bomber won a pair of centre clearances and kicked an important goal as he fights to win a place on Richmond's senior list.

Ruckman Ivan Maric was best-afield, booting three goals and impressing around the ground, while Shane Edwards, Shane Tuck and Shaun Grigg relished the winter-like conditions.

Former Docker Nick Lower took another step towards sewing up a Round 1 place for the Western Bulldogs, shutting down superstar and Richmond captain Trent Cotchin.

Lower has excelled as a tagger this pre-season, also taking the honours against Sam Mitchell.

A Jason Tutt goal cut the gap to just three points in the final term, before Jack Riewoldt found the sticks to secure victory.

Earlier, the Dogs raced to a four-goal lead as Adam Cooney and Mitch Wallis got busy.

Cooney booted a last-quarter goal when Nathan Hrovat, the first-round draft pick who the Dogs debuted today, spotted him in attack.

Hrovat and Tom Liberatore impressed in the final quarter with their inside midfield grunt.

Jordan Roughead again showed signs his move to defence is set to pay off, while a dazzling interception from Luke Dahlhaus set up a Daniel Giansiracusa goal in the third quarter as the Dogs looked set to run away with the match.

Richmond v Western Bulldogs at Visy park, Sam Lonergan crash's into Luke Dahlhaus Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: HWT Image Library

But the Tigers held firm until the last change before making their move, with goals to Maric and Brett Deledio to start the last quarter.

Brett Goodes capped his incredible summer with another standout performance from halfback and looks certain to make his AFL debut in Round 1 at the age of 29.

GWS GIANTS 16.6 (102) def ST KILDA 12.14 (86) at Blacktown

ST KILDA has suffered a 144-point turnaround from its debut meeting with GWS Giants late last year, falling to the baby club to end its pre-season campaign.

The Saints leaked six last-quarter goals as they were overpowered by the wooden-spoon favourites in a shock result at Blacktown.

It prompted Giants coach Kevin Sheedy to issue a stern warning after the match to nemesis Sydney, declaring "they wouldn't want to treat us with any disrespect" when they do battle in Round 1.

Beau Maister goaled to give the Saints the lead late in the third term, but it was all GWS after that as the home side cruised to a rare victory.

Jack Newnes again impressed, while Gold Coast recruit Tom Hickey was spared the majority of ruck duties as Ben McEvoy took control

Oddly, St Kilda beat the premier (Sydney) and lost to the bottom side (GWS) this NAB Cup. The Saints now have a week off before travelling to Metricon Stadium to play Gold Coast in Round 1.

GOLD COAST 12.8 (80) def MELBOURNE 8.7 (55) at Southport, Queensland

A DOMINANT performance from maligned Dee Jack Watts did little as an undersized Melbourne was exposed by Gold Coast in its final pre-season match today.

A Demons side missing Mitch Clark,  Jack Viney, Jack Trengove James Frawley and Chris Dawes lacked firepower up forward and was stretched in defence as the Suns' young tall timber speared the home side to a 25-point win.

Big men Aaron Hall and Charlie Dixon combined for five majors, while Gary Ablett stepped his pre-season up another notch, collecting 24 touches in the 12.8 (80) to 8.7 (55) victory at Southport.

Watts racked up 25 disposals as he was unleashed from halfback, while James Sellar provided a lone target in attack, booting three goals.

Mature-aged recruit Dean Terlich again impressed for Melbourne and is on track for a Round 1 debut against Port Adelaide in two weeks.

Terlich collected 21 touches and booted a goal, while Mark Jamar was dominant in the ruck.

Suns' first-round draftee and midfield wrecking ball Jesse Lonergan injured his wrist and was spotted sporting a sling after the match.

16/3/13 AFL -The Gold Coast Suns play the Melbourne Demons in NAB Cup game at Southport Sharks on the Gold Coast. Jesse Lonergan in a sling after the game. Pics Adam Head Picture: Adam Head Source: HWT Image Library

HAWTHORN 19.8 (122) def NORTH MELBOURNE 5.11 (41) at Craigieburn

HAWTHORN and North Melbourne called off their practice match halfway through the last quarter as wild weather lashed Craigieburn.

With the Hawks leading by 79 points and 13.55 on the clock, both sides mutually agreed to end the contest.

And the Roos could be without another defender for their Round 1 clash against Collingwood with former Sun Taylor Hine reported for a high bump on Jack Gunston.

The Roos are already without Scott McMahon for the season-opener, while veteran Brent Harvey is suspended until Round 7.

The Roos were monstered by Hawthorn, with David Hale booting four goals in the first three quarters against his old side to spear the Hawks to a 76-point lead at the final change.

Nathan Grima and Ryan Bastinac tried hard for the Roos, while Lance Franklin and Gunston kicked three goals each.

For updates from Craigieburn follow Matt Windley on Twitter

PORT ADELAIDE 15.12 (102) def SYDNEY 10.12 (72) at AAMI Stadium

NEW Port Adelaide skipper Travis Boak speared his side to a five-goal win against premiers Sydney to cap the Power's impressive pre-season under Ken Hinkley.

The midfield star booted three goals from 29 touches as Port shot clear in the final quarter.

But forward John Butcher injured his hand during the 15.12 (102) to 10.12 (72) win, although Port Adelaide tweeted it did not appear to be a serious blow.

Brad Ebert collected 25 touches, while former Eagle Lewis Stevenson racked up 21 from defence as he continues to bolt towards a Round 1 Power debut after 10 games for West Coast in 2010.

Goals to Sydney stars Adam Goodes, Kieran Jack and Jesse White in the third quarter sent the Swans into the final break just seven points down, before the home side seized control in front of 5042 fans.

Sam Reid kicked Sydney's sole major in the final term, two weeks out from Sydney's Round 1 match against GWS.

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Hawks win carries worries

Sam Mitchell spins out of trouble. Picture: Scott Chris Source: HWT Image Library

HAWTHORN finally got its first win of the pre-season, but will now sweat on the fitness of Josh Gibson and the Match Review Panel's verdict of David Hale's hit on Leigh Adams as it prepares for Round 1.

The Hawks defeated North Melbourne by 81 points in Craigieburn this afternoon in a match that was cut short midway through the final term as both teams opted for a safety first approach at a rain-swept Highgate Reserve.

Gibson was smashed in a marking contest in the dying seconds of the first half and appeared to be short of breath and holding the left side of his rib cage.

Get a wrap of all the matches here

He moved gingerly towards the bench, but then was assisted from the field by two trainers once the half time siren sounded.

He did not return to the field, but coach Alastair Clarkson said afterwards it was always planned to rest Gibson - as well as Jordan Lewis and Jarryd Roughead - in the second half.

nm#38 Majak Daw gets away from h#25 Picture: Scott Chris Source: HWT Image Library

Hale was reported for making forceful front on contact to Adams in the first quarter.

Both attacked a ground ball in the Hawks' forward 50m, but Adams was sent crashing to the turf after being collected high.

He played on, but was sporting a black eye after the match.

Injuries and reports aside, it was a fairly routine win for Hawthorn against an extremely undermanned Kangaroos outfit missing up to 12 of its first choice players.

After a competitive first quarter, the Hawks ran out 19.8 (122) to 5.11 (41) winners.

Hale kicked four goals while Gunston, Lance Franklin and Sam Grimley chipped in with three goals each.

Clarkson said he was confident Gibson would be fit to face Geelong at the MCG in 15 days time.

"I think he's going to be OK, Gibbo ... he just got a bit of a knock in a marking contest,'' Clarkson said.

nm#38 Majak Daw gets away from h#25 Picture: Scott Chris Source: HWT Image Library

"We were going to take him out at half time anyway. He'll be OK, he's a pretty tough competitor.''

Many Hawks fans would have headed to the northern suburbs hoping to glean information on how their side would go about replacing the injured Matthew Suckling.

Matthew Spangher was good in defence and can play both tall and small, while Kyle Cheney was also serviceable.

Interestingly, Gunston also won a fair few possessions in the back half and also had two rebound 50s to his name.

Clarkson said the art of re-working his side's backline was still a work in progress.

"We'll work it out, we've got good depth at our footy club,'' he said.

"Suckers is obviously a loss for us, but you've just got to forge ahead _ when one goes down you replace him with another guy.

"We think we've got enough depth, is it the same quality? We'll wait and see. We'll keep putting blokes in there and hopefully we'll get the same rebound as last year.''

The coach said Gunston's clean foot skills could be utilised in defence at times.

"But just his polish in the front half is really valuable for our side, so we'll continue to explore things across half back but we probably don't want to rob the influence he can have for us in the front half of the ground.''

Clarkson said the match had been approached as a full Round 1 dress rehearsal and, as such, he was happy enough with the outcome.

"You can only control what you can do ... by and large it was a good hitout for both sides.''
 

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Goddard slams Saints cash claims

Brendon Goddard in his new colours. Source: Herald Sun

STAR Essendon recruit Brendon Goddard says suggestions he held former club St Kilda to ransom over his contract are "a complete bunch of lies".

Goddard was questioned about comments by Saints president Greg Westaway, who said his demand for a lucrative four-year deal would have made the club pay him $750,000 at age 32.

"I don't think so. It would have been derelict of our board to have sewn him up for that fourth year," Westaway told Fairfax Media.

But Goddard totally rejected the claims.

"That is totally fabricated and untrue," he said on The Footy Show.

"For Greg Westaway to come out and say that - a complete bunch of lies - is somewhat hurtful, because it's not true at all."

Goddard said the $750,000 figure was wrong and he felt he left the club on good terms.

"Pretty much he's suggesting I held the club to ransom on those figures, so it's pretty hurtful.

"There was a number of things (that led to the decision to join Essendon) and obviously the talks went a bit pear-shaped, but at the time summing it up I thought it was the best decision for me personally.

"I played 10 seasons at St Kilda and 200 games, I played in a couple of Grand Finals, so they're always going to hold a special place in my heart.

"To think that I walked away disappointed, or on bad terms, is a bit hurtful. I just thought I made the best decision personally for myself."

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Drubbing doesn't bother Dogs

Tory Dickson of the Bulldogs cools down during the practice match against Fremantle in Mandurah. Source: Getty Images

THE Western Bulldogs deny any momentum gained from the NAB Cup win against Hawthorn a fortnight ago was lost in last week's Fremantle drubbing.

The Bulldogs took a severely under-strength lineup to Western Australia last Saturday and paid the price with a 109-point loss.

But with a near-full compliment of players to choose from for tomorrow's final pre-season hitout against Richmond at VISY Park, Dogs assistant coach Shannon Grant said preparations for Round 1 were on track.

"I think more than anything (the Freo game) gave some of the older guys a chance to have a week off just to recover," Grant said.

"The demands of the game are pretty high these days and it is a long year so we're hoping it works the other way for us.

"It was a great experience for the kids to be able to go across, a lot of them haven't travelled yet interstate. Perth is a long trip, it takes a lot out of you.

"You certainly don't like to lose by that amount, but I still think we can take a lot from it."

Some teams hope for nothing more than a clean bill of health from their final practice match.

But Grant said the Dogs would be using the match as a tune-up for Round 1 against the Brisbane Lions in a fortnight.

"We'll certainly have a much stronger side in (than last week)," he said.

"So we'll be treating it as basically a full dress rehearsal and hope that we go in to Round 1 with some confidence under our belt."

The Bulldogs only have short-term injuries to Easton Wood (hamstring) and Jake Stringer (ankle) to worry about - and neither player has been ruled out of contention for Round 1.

Grant said the absence of any long-term injury concerns made the coaching staff's job much easier at this time of year.

"Being able to have a lot of depth makes for a lot more competition for spots," he said.

"We've got a healthy list and we're hoping to keep it that way."
 

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LIVE: NAB Cup grand final

Carlton star Chris Judd returns for the NAB Cup final. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

LIVE AT 7:45PM AEDT - Follow our live coverage of tonight's NAB Cup grand final between the Brisbane Lions and Carlton at Etihad Stadium here.

Superstar Chris Judd makes his first appearance of the pre-season tonight - and what a time to do it.

Make no mistake of it, the Blues want this and see it as the perfect way to launch their new era under new coach Mick Malthouse.

But the Lions, who are still aggrieved this match is not being played in Queensland, decided a long time ago they wanted to win the NAB Cup.

If they win, it will be their first piece of silverware since the 2003 premiership win.

Brisbane Lions:

B: Joel Patfull, Daniel Merrett, Elliot Yeo

HB: Jed Adcock, Matt Maguire, Mitch Golby

C: Patrick Karnezis, Tom Rockliff, Pearce Hanley

HF: Rohan Bewick, Jonathan Brown, Josh Green

F: Aaron Cornelius, Stefan Martin, Dayne Zorko

Foll: Billy Longer, Brent Moloney, Daniel Rich

Int: Sam Docherty, Ashley McGrath, Claye Beams, Andrew Raines, Jack Redden, James Polkinghorne

Emg: Marco Paparone, Ryan Lester, Jack Crisp

Carlton:

B: Chris Yarran, Michael Jamison, Simon White

HB: Nick Duigan, Lachie Henderson, Zach Tuohy

C: Kade Simpson, Brock McLean, Dennis Armfield

HF: Andrew Carrazzo, Andrew Walker, Kane Lucas

F: Sam Rowe, Levi Casboult, Eddie Betts

Foll: Shaun Hampson, Bryce Gibbs, Marc Murphy

Int: Chris Judd, Matthew Kreuzer, Mitch Robinson, Josh Bootsma, Ed Curnow, Aaron Joseph

Emg: Jeremy Laidler, Tom Bell, Heath Scotland

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Mayne, Dawson commit to Dockers

STAYING ON: Chris Mayne will remain with Fremantle until at least 2016 after signing a contract extension. Picture: Paul Kane Source: Getty Images

FREMANTLE has shored up its future at both ends of the field, with Chris Mayne and Zac Dawson agreeing to contract extensions at the club.

Mayne, who was coming out of contract at the end of the season, will remain at the Dockers until at least 2016 having signed a three-year extension.

The dead-eye forward booted 39 goals and just seven behinds in 23 appearances last year to finish second behind Coleman Medal contender Matthew Pavlich (69) on Fremantle's goalkicking tally.

Mayne, 24, has played 81 games for the Dockers since his debut in 2008.
Dawson will be at Fremantle through to the end of the 2015 season after agreeing to a two-year extension.

Fremantle general manager of player management Brad Lloyd said the club was happy to have secured the duo for the medium-term.

"Both players are very important components of our structure," he said.

"Chris had an excellent 2012 playing as a forward, and Zac was part of a solid defensive group that really grew as a unit last year."

Follow Chris Robinson on Twitter: @CJKRobinson

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Lions, Blues want silverware

New Carlton coach Mick Malthouse wants to win tomorrow night. Picture: Brett Costello Source: The Daily Telegraph

TRY telling opposing coaches Mick Malthouse and Michael Voss that tomorrow night's NAB Cup grand final means nothing.

Both coaches have chosen near full strength sides and both have a chance to see their players in a high pressured encounter on the big stage.

For Voss, he said today he is appreciative of the opportunity to play a rare "blockbuster" against a big Melbourne club.

Blues, Lions set for bumper seasons

While Malthouse, renowned for favouring players who perform strongly in big matches, said tomorrow night presented an opportunity for fringe players to push their claims for Round 1.

"I heard Michael say if you're in it ... you try to win it and that's absolutely spot on," Carlton coach Malthouse said.

"What's the point in wasting your time? I value the NAB Cup series, I think it's a good series to come through to prepare you and if you get the chance to compete in the last day then absolutely try and win it."

Brisbane Lions counterpart Voss agreed.

"For us we get some good exposure for our younger players that haven't experienced that sort of intensity before," Voss said.

"It is fairly good preparation when you talk about pure intensity of the game to get you right for Round 1.

"So for us, yeah, it's certainly about living in the moment and getting a result."

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Buddy back as Hawks load up

Collingwood stars Dane Swan and Scott Pendlebury are back after a week off. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

COLLINGWOOD and Geelong will have a dress rehearsal for Round 1 with both sides naming full-strength teams for their practice match tomorrow.

The Magpies have recalled Dane Swan, Scott Pendlebury, Travis Cloke, Heath Shaw and Harry O'Brien to the team that was beaten by the Brisbane Lions last weekend.

Geelong, meanwhile, welcomes back Jimmy Bartel,  Corey Enright, Harry Taylor, Josh Caddy, Allen Christensen, Billie Smedts, Mitch Duncan and Jared Rivers.

The Cats made a late change to the squad, with Paul Chapman pulling out today. He has been replaced by Jordan Schroder.

Scroll down to see every practice match squad

Expanded squads and the interchange cap trialled during the NAB Cup are gone as clubs make their final preparations for the start of the home-and-away season.

For the Cats that means stars Steve Johnson and James Kelly, who will both miss Round 1 through suspension, won't play against Collingwood. The club says they could take part in a VFL practice match.

Missing for the Magpies are injured stars Dale Thomas, Luke Ball, Alan Didak and Ben Reid. Only Reid is a chance to play in Round 1.

Hawthorn has loaded up with stars for its practice match against North Melbourne at Craigieburn on Saturday, with Lance Franklin, Brad Sewell, Brent Guerra, Jack Gunston, David Hale and Luke Breust all back in the line-up.

NAB Cup final: See the Carlton and Brisbane teams here

But the Roos have gone the other way, resting a long list of first-choice players including Jack Ziebell, Daniel Wells, Shaun Atley and Lindsay Thomas.

"This game will absolutely be about giving young guys an opportunity, giving guys who are pushing and on the cusp of our Round 1 side a chance to impress, but that's our priority; it's not to field about our best side, or a dress rehearsal for Round 1," coach Brad Scott told the Roos website.

North will field three ruckmen - Todd Goldstein, Daniel Currie and Majak Daw - in an apparent showdown for a spot in Round 1.

Also named is young defender Ayden Kennedy for his first senior game since hurting his knee in the 2011 pre-season.

The Barometer: How every club is tracking for Round 1

The Western Bulldogs have recalled their core of stars who missed the trip to Mandurah last week, with Matthew Boyd, Robert Murphy, Daniel Giansiracusa and Dale Morris named in a full-strength squad to face Richmond.

The Tigers have recalled top draft pick Nick Vlastuin, who was rested last week. Rookies Ricky Petterd, Sam Lonergan and Orren Stephenson will push their cases for senior promotion.

Port Adelaide regains former Bomber Angus Monfries from a hamstring injury, but Melbourne has chosen again not to play Jack Viney.

Essendon, which opens the AFL season against Adelaide next week, is not playing this weekend but has been given permission for 17 senior-listed players to run out with its VFL side tomorrow.

David Zaharakis, Joe Daniher, Alwyn Davey, Ben Howlett, Jake Melksham, Tayte Pears and Scott Gumbleton will all play against Bendigo Gold.

PRACTICE MATCH SQUADS

Collingwood v Geelong, Simonds Stadium, Friday 4pm

Collingwood
2 Jordan Russell, 3 Brent Macaffer, 5 Nick Maxwell, 6 Tyson Goldsack, 8 Harry O'Brien, 9 Marty Clarke, 10 Scott Pendlebury, 11 Jarryd Blair, 14 Clinton Young, 15 Jarrod Witts, 16 Nathan Brown, 17 Dayne Beams, 18 Darren Jolly, 19 Jamie Elliott, 21 Quinten Lynch, 22 Steele Sidebottom, 26 Ben Johnson, 28 Ben Sinclair, 32 Travis Cloke, 34 Alan Toovey, 36 Dane Swan, 39 Heath Shaw, 40 Paul Seedsman, 41 Sam Dwyer, 45 Jack Frost, 48 Caolan Mooney,

Geelong
1 Mitch Brown, 2 Billie Smedts, 3 Jimmy Bartel, 4 Andrew Mackie, 5 Travis Varcoe, 7 Harry Taylor, 11 Joel Corey, 13 Tom Lonergan, 14 Joel Selwood, 15 Jordan Schroder, 19 Taylor Hunt, 21 Jordan Murdoch, 22 Mitch Duncan, 23 Josh Caddy, 25 Jared Rivers, 26 Tom Hawkins, 27 Matthew Stokes, 28 Allen Christensen, 29 Cameron Guthrie, 31 James Podsiadly, 32 Steven Motlop, 33 George Horlin-Smith, 34 Josh Walker, 37 Cameron Eardley, 38 Jackson Sheringham, 41 Jesse Stringer, 44 Corey Enright, 46 Mark Blicavs

Gold Coast v Melbourne, Southport, Saturday 12.30pm

Gold Coast
1 Jaeger O'Meara, 2 Zac Smith, 3 Jared Brennan, 5 Jarrod Harbrow, 7 Karmichael Hunt, 9 Gary Ablett, 10 Dion Prestia, 12 Sam Day, 14 Matthew Warnock, 15 Daniel Gorringe, 16 Rory Thompson, 17 Steven May, 23 Charlie Dixon, 24 David Swallow, 25 Danny Stanley, 26 Matt Shaw, 29 Tom Murphy, 32 Brandon Matera, 33 Aaron Hall, 34 Jack Hutchins, 35 Michael Rischitelli, 36 Greg Broughton, 37 Jesse Lonergan, 38 Joel Wilkinson, 39 Timmy Sumner, 42 Kyal Horsley

Melbourne
1. Jesse Hogan, 2. Nathan Jones, 4. Jack Watts, 5. Jimmy Toumpas, 8. James Frawley, 10. Shannon Byrnes, 12. Colin Sylvia, 13. Jordie McKenzie, 14. Lynden Dunn, 15. David Rodan, 19. James Strauss, 20. Colin Garland, 21. Cam Pederson, 22. James Magner, 26. Daniel Nicholson, 27. Tom Gillies, 30. James Sellar, 31. Jack Grimes, 32. Michael Evans, 35. Luke Tapscott, 36. Aaron Davey, 38. Jeremy Howe ,39. Neville Jetta, 40. Mark Jamar, 42. Jake Spencer, 45. Matt Jones, 46. Dean Terlich

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Port Adelaide v Sydney, AAMI Stadium, Saturday 1.30pm

Port Adelaide
1. Travis Boak, 3. Campbell Heath, 4. Brent Renouf, 5. Matthew Broadbent, 6. Angus Monfries, 7. Brad Ebert, 8. Hamish Hartlett, 11. John Butcher, 12. Jackson Trengove, 13. Cameron O'Shea, 15. Lewis Stevenson, 16. Oliver Wines, 18. Kane Cornes, 20. Chad Wingard, 21. Matt Thomas, 23. Matthew Lobbe, 26. Andrew Moore, 27. Alipate Carlile, 29. Jasper Pittard, 30. Sam Colquhoun, 32. Jake Neade, 34. Jarad Redden, 36. Jack Hombsch, 37. Kane Mitchell, 39. Justin Westhoff, 30. Aaron Young, 42. Tom Jonas, 43. Daniel Stewart

Sydney
1 Rhyce Shaw, 3 Jarrad McVeigh, 4 Daniel Hannebery, 5 Ryan O'Keefe, 9 Nick Malceski, 12 Josh Kennedy, 13 Andrejs Everitt, 14 Criag Bird, 15 Kieren Jack, 17 Tommy Walsh, 18 Jesse White, 19 Tony Armstrong, 20 Sam Reid, 21 Ben McGlynn, 22 Dean Towers, 23 Jordan Lockyer, 24 Jude Bolton, 26 Luke Parker, 29 Marty Mattner, 30 Lewis Roberts-Thomson, 32 Lewis Jetta, 36 Alex Brown, 37 Adam Goodes, 39 Heath Grundy, 40 Nick Smith, 41 Shane Mumford, 43 Dean Rampe

North Melbourne v Hawthorn, Craigieburn, Saturday 2pm

North Melbourne
1. Daniel Currie, 2. Brad McKenzie, 3. Ryan Bastinac, 4. Liam Anthony, 5. Ben Jacobs, 6. Lachlan Hansen, 9. Andrew Swallow, 10. Ben Cunnington, 11. Michael Firrito, 13. Leigh Adams, 14. Jordan Gysberts, 17. Nathan Grima, 19. Sam Wright, 20. Drew Petrie, 22. Todd Goldstein, 23. Kieran Harper, 24. Levi Greenwood, 25. Robbie Tarrant, 26. Taylor Hine, 28. Will Sierakowski, 29. Brent Harvey, 31. Cam Delaney, 34. Jamie Macmillan, 35. Aaron Black, 36. Ayden Kennedy, 38. Majak Daw ,41. Aaron Mullett

Hawthorn
2 Jarryd Roughead, 3 Jordan Lewis, 5 Sam Mitchell, 6 Josh Gibson, 8 Xavier Ellis, 9 Shaun Burgoyne, 10 Bradley Hill, 12 Brad Sewell, 13 Kyle Cheney, 14 Grant Birchall, 16 Isaac Smith, 18 Brent Guerra, 19 Jack Gunston, 20 David Hale, 21 Luke Savage, 22 Luke Breust, 23 Lance Franklin, 24 Ben Stratton, 25 Ryan Schoenmakers, 26 Liam Shiels, 27 Matthew Spangher, 28 Paul Puopolo, 32 Jonathan Simpkin, 35 Sam Grimley, 37 Jed Anderson, 39 Max Bailey, 41 Taylor Duryea

Richmond v Western Bulldogs, Visy Park 2pm

Richmond
1 Chris Newman, 3 Brett Deledio, 4 Dustin Martin, 5 Brandon Ellis, 6 Shaun Grigg, 8 Jack Riewoldt, 9 Trent Cotchin, 10 Shane Edwards, 11 Jake Batchelor, 13 Ricky Petterd, 14 Bachar Houli, 16 Luke McGuane, 18 Alex Rance, 20 Ivan Maric, 21 Shane Tuck, 22 Sam Lonergan, 24 Ben Griffiths, 25 Troy Chaplin, 26 Robin Nahas, 29 Tyrone Vickery, 30 Reece Conca, 31 Nick Vlastuin, 35 Matthew White, 37 Orren Stephenson, 38 Steven Morris, 44 Matt Arnot

Western Bulldogs
2 Robert Murphy, 3 Mitch Wallis, 4 Daniel Cross, 5 Matthew Boyd, 6 Luke Dahlhaus, 11 Jackson Macrae, 13 Daniel Giansiracusa, 14 Clay Smith, 15 Jason Tutt, 16 RyanGriffen, 17 Adam Cooney, 19 Liam Jones, 21 Tom Liberatore, 23 Jordan Roughead, 24 Nathan Hrovat, 25 Koby Stevens, 27 Will Minson, 29 Tory Dickson, 31 Tom Young, 33 Nick Lower, 37 Lukas Markovic, 38 Dale Morris, 39 Jason Johannisen, 42 Liam Picken, 44 Brett Goodes, 45 Tom Campbell, 49 Ayce Cordy

GWS v St Kilda, Blacktown Saturday 2pm

GWS
1 Phil Davis, 2 Curtly Hampton, 3 Stephen Coniglio, 4 Toby Greene, 5 Dylan Shiel, 6 Lachie Whitfield, 7 Rhys Palmer, 8 Callan Ward, 9 Tom Scully, 10 Devon Smith, 11 Taylor Adams, 12 Jonathon Patton, 14 Tomas Bugg, 17 Adam Treloar, 18 Jeremy Cameron, 23 Sam Reid, 25 Anthony Miles, 26 Jonathan Giles, 28 Liam Sumner, 30 Lachie Plowman, 33 Will Hoskin-Elliott, 35 Aidan Corr, 37 Setanta O'hAilpin, 38 Stephen Gilham, 39 Tim Mohr, 40 Adam Kennedy, 48 Sam Frost, 50 Dean Brogan

St Kilda
1 Tom Hickey, 2 Arryn Siposs, 3 Jack Steven, 4 Clint Jones, 5 Ben McEvoy, 7 Lenny Hayes, 8 Trent Dennis-Lane, 9 Tom Lee, 11 Leigh Montagna, 12 Nick Riewoldt, 14 Jarryn Geary, 16 Jack Newnes, 17 Dylan Roberton, 19 Sam Gilbert, 20 David Armitage, 21 Ahmed Saad, 22 Farren Ray, 25 Sam Fisher, 26 Nick Dal Santo, 27 Jason Blake, 30 Brodie Murdoch, 32 Terry Milera, 33 James Gwilt, 34 Nathan Wright, 37 Beau Maister, 44 Stephen Milne

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The Barometer: Round 1

Collingwood's Dale Thomas is struggling to be ready to go in Round 1. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD could be without Alan Didak, Luke Ball and Dale Thomas for Round 1, but Port Adelaide and the Western Bulldogs could boast full-strength sides.

See how your club is shaping up for its all-important Round 1 clash with the first installment of The Barometer for season 2013.

ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Brodie Smith (collarbone) 4-5 weeks
Ian Callinan (knee) test
Richard Tambling (back) test
Jason Porplyzia (stomach) test
Sam Shaw (knee) test

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SMALL forwards Ian Callinan and Jared Petrenko are up against it trying to make the cut with limited match fitness under their belts. Sam Shaw has struggled with patella tendonitis in his knee while Brodie Smith is out with a broken collarbone. Richard Tambling is battling a back complaint and is an unlikely starter in Round 1.

- Gilbert Gardiner

BRISBANE

INJURIES
Simon Black (knee) indefinite
Jesse O'Brien (groin) 2 weeks
Brent Staker (knee) 5 weeks
Matthew Leuenberger (achilles) 2-3 weeks

BY and large a healthy list with Matthew Leuenberger the only concern after an interrupted pre-season. It's hard to see the big ruckman lining up in Round 1 given his lack of match fitness. Champion Simon Black remains on the outer but the young Lions midfield has the talent to cover his loss.

- Gilbert Gardiner

VETERAN: Simon Black at Brisbane Lions training. Picture: Peter Wallis Source: The Courier-Mail

CARLTON

INJURIES
Jaryd Cachia (hamstring) TBA
Andrew Collins (ankle) test
David Ellard (hamstring) test
Andrew McInnes (knee) 16 weeks
Jarrad Waite (calf) 2 weeks

JARRAD Waite remains the main injury concern at Visy Park amid a bounty of tall timber options including three bona-fide ruckmen. Andrew McInnes is the only long-term injury on the list with fringe players Andrew Collins and David Ellard available for selection.

- Gilbert Gardiner

Click here to see this weekend's practice match squads

COLLINGWOOD

INJURIES
Ben Reid (knee) 1-2 weeks
Alan Didak (hamstring) 2-3 weeks
Luke Ball (knee) 3 weeks
Dale Thomas (ankle) 3-4 weeks
Tim Broomhead (glandular fever) 4 weeks
Michael Hartley (shoulder) 4-6 weeks
Corey Gault (groin) 6 weeks
Lachlan Keeffe (knee) 6-8 weeks
Brodie Grundy (back) 8 weeks

THE Pies will enter Round 1 with a hefty injury list, as they did last year. Ben Reid and Alan Didak are rough chances for the North Melbourne clash, but it looks a stretch to see Luke Ball or Dale Thomas take the field that match. Still, neither will be far away and of the rest only Lachie Keeffe will quickly strengthen the senior side. Boom ruckman Brodie Grundy could take a while to get stress fractures in his back right, but it'll be worth the wait. The Pies also have two rookies eligible for elevation prior to the season-opener, one of which will be journeyman Ben Hudson.

- Sam Landsberger

Magpies coach Nathan Buckley speaks to Luke Ball about he ongoing issues with hamstring soreness. Source: Getty Images

ESSENDON

INJURIES
Michael Hurley (ankle) likely
David Zaharakis (quad) doubtful
Jason Winderlich (groin) TBA

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MICHAEL Hurley will be fine, and David Zaharakis will audition for Round 1 in a VFL practice match tomorrow, say the Bombers. That reads as some serious relief for the Dons, who were monstered last year by injury. Hurley sported a moon boot after the win against GWS, but the club says that was only precautionary and he'll be fine to tackle the Crows. Zaharakis is yet to feature this pre-season, so will enter underdone, and while Winderlich won't play Round 1 he, too, isn't too far away despite no date being set on a return.

FREMANTLE

INJURIES
Matt Taberner (glandular fever) test
Aaron Sandilands (hamstring) 5 weeks
Anthony Morabito (knee) indefinite

AARON Sandilands is a massive blow, but ruck understudy Zac Clarke has performed supremely throughout the NAB Cup. Sandi won't be right until at least Round 3, with Ross Lyon expected to take a cautious approach with the star veteran. Morabito is tracking well from his tragic third knee reconstruction, which he underwent LARS surgery with. The Dockers regained a few stars across the NAB Cup from injury including David Mundy and Ryan Crowley and are in tip-top nick ahead of the Round 1 derby blockbuster next Saturday night.

- Sam Landsberger

Fremantle midfielder Anthony Morabito had LARS surgery to repair his injured right knee. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

GEELONG

INJURIES
Jed Bews (foot) TBA
George Burbury (foot) TBA
Josh Hunt (glandular fever) indefinite
Hamish McIntosh (knee) indefinite
Daniel Menzel (knee) 2 weeks
Trent West (knee) 2 weeks
Dawson Simpson (back) TBA
Stevie Johnson (suspension) Round 2
James Kelly (suspension) Round 2

THE Cats will be sweating on the fitness of Trent West to bolster their dwindling ruck stocks currently led by former Olympic aspirant Mark Blicavs. Recruit Hamish McIntosh remains the big unknown at the Cattery after having minor surgery on his knee last month. The former Kangaroos No.1 has struggled with niggling knee problems since breaking down last year. Dawson Simpson also had minor surgery on his back. Emerging forward Daniel Menzel would be rough chance to line up in Round 1 after undergoing snap LARS surgery in January to replace a damaged tendon in his left knee. Meanwhile, superboot Josh Hunt's battle with glandular fever continues.

- Gilbert Gardiner

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GOLD COAST SUNS

INJURIES
Matt Shaw (illness) available
Luke Russell (knee) available
Henry Schade (back) 1 week
Clay Cameron (groin) 2 weeks
Trent McKenzie (knee) 2 weeks
Tom Lynch (ankle) 2-4 weeks
Liam Patrick (hamstring) 2-3 weeks
Seb Tape (knee) 4 weeks
Nathan Bock (leg) indefinite
Campbell Brown (suspension) Round 7

IT looks a long list at first glance, but not to many serious worries for the Suns, Nathan Bock aside. Only defenders Bock and Seb Tape look certain to miss the season-opener against the Saints, with Liam Patrick, Tom Lynch, Clay Cameron and Trent McKenzie all outside chances to feature. And a list of that health bodes will with the Suns' golden run across the first two months of the season proper.

- Sam Landsberger

Nathan Bock just wants to get on with season 2013 as he endeavours to put last year's horror movie behind him. Picture: Adam Head Source: The Courier-Mail

GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY

INJURIES
Matthew Buntine (punctured lung) 6-8 weeks
Chad Cornes (knee) indefinite
James Growden (hip) test
Dom Tyson (knee) 8 weeks
Callan Ward (concussion) test
Jonathan O'Rourke (hamstring) 2 weeks
Will Hoskin-Elliott (back) available

No.2 pick Jonathan O'Rourke hamstrings remain a concern after the talented youngster broke down in his first competitive hit out. O'Rourke, plagued by hamstring injuries as a junior, left the field shortly after coming on as the substitute last week. Veteran Chad Cornes' career could be at the crossroads with the former Port Adelaide stalwart sidelined with a knee injury. Cornes also had surgery during the off-season to remove a cyst from his shoulder. Callan Ward will return after being subbed off with concussion last week. Will Hoskin-Elliott (back) is an outside chance at getting a call up after impressing for the Giants' reserves.

- Gilbert Gardiner

HAWTHORN

INJURIES
Cyril Rioli (ankle) likely
Luke Hodge (niggles) doubtful
Brendan Whitecross (knee) indefinite
Matt Suckling (knee) indefinite
Alex Woodward (knee) indefinite

The Hawks say Cyril Rioli will play the Round 1 blockbuster against Geelong, but Luke Hodge remains at long odds. He could return that weekend, but through the VFL, as the Hawks play it safe with their veteran. They did the same last year and he came back and booted five goals. Other than that the Hawks will enter the season relatively settled, given they know the fate of their three long-term knee victims.

- Sam Landsberger

Hawthorn defender Matthew Suckling will sit out the season after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee. Picture: Getty Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Jordie McKenzie (virus) available
Jack Viney (neck) test
Chris Dawes (hamstring) test
Tom McDonald (ankle) 1 week
Mitch Clark (foot) 2-4 weeks
Jack Trengove (foot) 2-4 weeks
Sam Blease (ankle) 2-4 weeks
Rohan Bail (concussion) 3 weeks
Max Gawn (hamstring) 3-5 weeks

SEVERAL Dees are locked in a battle with the clock to line up against Port Adelaide in Round 1. Heading that list is co-captain Jack Trengove and superboot Mitch Clark, who are both outside chances to resume through VFL affiliate Casey next week. You can lock Jack Viney in for a Round 1 debut regardless of whether he faces Gold Coast this weekend. The midfield terrier doesn't need another trail match to prove his worth to coach Mark Neeld after recovering from a neck strain. A fairly lengthy injury list for the Dees, but on the plus side is all could be back firing by next month.

- Sam Landsberger

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NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Taylor Garner (shoulder) TBA
Nathan Grima (back) TBA
Brent Harvey (suspended) Round 7
Scott McMahon (suspended) Round 2

ALL quiet in the Kangaroos medical room with Nathan Grima the only walk-up casualty leading into Round 1. Grima has struggled with a back complaint for most of the pre-season and looks to be racing the clock to be fit. Recruit Taylor Garner is being nursed along while Majak Daw (knee) is playing with strapping on his knee. Brent Harvey will sit out the first six weeks of the season serving suspensions for striking.

- Gilbert Gardiner

PORT ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Angus Monfries (hamstring) - available
John Butcher (hips) - available
Robbie Gray (knee) available
Brent Renouf (knee) available
Dom Cassisi (calf) 1 week
Brett Ebert (hamstring) 1 week
Nick Salter (foot) indefinite

THE Power will receive a massive boost this week when Robbie Gray returns after 11 months through the SANFL. The silky star joins plenty of Power stars ready to return, including Angus Monfries and John Butcher. Dom Cassisi and Brett Ebert will miss the final pre-season clash against the Swans but should suit-up against the Dees in Round 1, leaving just Nick Salter in the medical room. That's just about a full-strength side to attack Melbourne at the MCG.

- Sam Landsberger

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RICHMOND

INJURIES
Dylan Grimes (hamstring) 2-4 weeks
Nathan Foley (Achilles) 6-8 weeks
David Astbury (foot) 2-3 weeks

THE Tigers have only two first-choice players on the injury list and are talking positively about both playing early in the season. The club says it is delighted by the success of Grimes' latest hamstring surgery and the injury-cursed defender is back in full training – but well short of match practice. Foley has started sprinting but will be carefully managed. Damien Hardwick says he will be available for selection "about Round 5-7". The unlucky Astbury seems out of Round 1 calculations. Competition for spots is high but there are likely to be at least a couple of new faces against the Blues on March 28 with top draftee Nick Vlastuin and former Port Adelaide defender Troy Chaplin both likely starters.

- Al Paton

New recruit to Richmond Troy Chaplin Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

ST KILDA

INJURIES
Daniel Markworth (knee) indefinite
Rhys Stanley (knee) 3 weeks
Sean Dempster (hamstring) 2-4 weeks

THE loss of Dempster, who finished third in the Saints' 2012 best-and-fairest, is a major blow. The defence could be even more exposed than usual for the opening rounds with Rhys Stanley also sidelined. The forward-turned-backman, who injured his knee during the NAB Cup, is improving rapidly and could be back as early as Round 2. Markworth has a long road back.

- Gilbert Gardiner

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SYDNEY

INJURIES
Nick Smith (knee) available
Marty Mattner (hip) available
Tommy Walsh (back) likely
Kurt Tippett (hand/suspension) Round 13
Gary Rohan (leg) indefinite
Alex Johnson (knee) indefinite

THE Swans lost Alex Johnson, most likely for the year, last week when the young premiership player twisted his left knee. He's in Melbourne this week deciding whether to undergo a traditional reconstruction or opt for LARS, but in better news for Sydney it will welcome back defenders Nick Smith and Marty Mattner from long-term layoffs this week. Tommy Walsh should be ready to go in Round 1 after a back injury, while Kurt Tippett's hand will be well and truly healed by the time his 11-game ban ends.

- Sam Landsberger

Sydney defender Alex Johnson will consider LARS surgery on his injured right knee. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

WEST COAST

INJURIES
Andrew Embley (hamstring) 2 weeks
Daniel Kerr (knee) 2 weeks
Nic Naitanui (groin) TBA
Sharrod Wellingham (ankle) 4 weeks
Mark Nicoski (hamstring) indefinite
Andrew Gaff (head) available
Chris Masten (quadricep) available

NIC Naitanui headlines the list of Eagles walk-up starters set to miss the club's opening round clash against Fremantle. Naitanui has battled a groin complaint during the pre-season. Look for veterans Andrew Embley and Daniel Kerr to line up in the Western Derby but no such hope for recruit Sharrod Wellingham. The former Magpie damaged ligaments in his ankle mucking around on a trampoline recently. Chris Masten sat out of the Eagles last NAB Cup match experiencing tightness in his quadriceps. He should be fine for Round 1 along with wingman Andrew Gaff who copped a knock to the head. Mark Nicoski has been listed as indefinite as snapping his hamstring.

- Gilbert Gardiner

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WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES
Luke Dahlhaus (cork) available
Jake Stringer (ankle) 1-2 weeks
Easton Wood (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

ONLY minor concerns at the Doggies, who could still yet boast a clean bill of health when Round 1 rolls around. They open their season against the Lions at Etihad Stadium and running defender Easton Wood looms as the biggest worry. He strained his hamstring at the weekend but with two weeks in between could yet prove his fitness.

- Sam Landsberger

Jake Stringer enjoys a goal late in the 3rd qtr Picture: Klein Michael Source: Herald Sun

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Dempster blow for the Saints

Sean Dempster will miss 2-4 weeks. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: HWT Image Library

ST KILDA defender Sean Dempster could face a belated start to the season after breaking down with a hamstring injury.

The 29-year-old could miss up to a month, joining tall Rhys Stanley (knee) on the sidelines two weeks out from the Saints' Round 1 clash against Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium.

The Barometer: Your full medical update of every club

Dempster suffered hamstring tightness in the NAB Cup win against Melbourne at Casey Fields on Saturday and has been listed by St Kilda as a 2-4 week casualty after undergoing treatment this week.

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The All-Australian has not missed a match since Round 12, 2010, playing 59 consecutive matches.

But the Saints boast a light injury list on the cusp of the season, with Daniel Markworth - who is expected to miss the entire season after undergoing a knee reconstruction - the only other Saint not in full training.

St Kilda rounds out its pre-season campaign against Greater Western Sydney in Blacktown on Saturday.

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Bombers jabbed up to 40 times

Essendon players were urged to have one injection a week. Picture: Hamish Blair Source: Herald Sun

EXCLUSIVE: A GROUP of Essendon players were injected up to 40 times each last season as part of the club's free-wheeling supplements program.

Some players were urged to have one injection a week, others two, as part of a regimen which ran from March to August.

"That's not astronomical, that's extremely astronomical," one club medico said last night.

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Players at most clubs average about one injection a year - for the flu or painkillers.

Essendon's injections program is understood to have been detailed in the controversial consent forms signed by the players at the start of the season.

The Herald Sun can reveal club officials have been interviewed by Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority investigators, but not the players.

No supplements given to the players and documented by Essendon have been found to be illegal by ASADA.

And the Bombers remain confident the substances injected were not in breach of anti-doping laws.

ASADA continues to investigate the practices of Essendon's former sports scientist, Stephen Dank.

Any doubts the Bombers still harbour centre on what took place at an anti-ageing clinic across the road from Windy Hill, where players were routinely injected.

The contents of those injections are being investigated by ASADA, as well as the medical techniques used during the first six months of last season.

The Herald Sun has learnt several Essendon players were caught on film by plain-clothes police arriving and leaving the clinic. It is believed the clinic was under surveillance.

Dank has denied providing Essendon players with anything illegal or banned.

The ASADA inquiry will also learn Essendon doctor Bruce Reid kept a detailed log of medical practices he was aware of at the club.

There are suggestions Reid was not aware of everything that took place, however he was concerned about players being taken off-site to receive injections - which involved a registered nurse and, reportedly, another doctor.

The AFL is considering banning injections as part of the massive overhaul of medical practices at clubs.

The Essendon coaches accused of taking substances by Dank are expected to tell investigators they did so to improve their appearance and fitness levels.

Regardless of the outcome of the ASADA investigation, Essendon expects to face sanctions from the AFL for poor internal governance.

Dank has been invited to appear before anti-doping investigators to explain his role in the saga, but is not obligated to attend.

The Bombers have conceded their supplement program was risky.

Chairman David Evans said: "Mistakes have been made, and I sincerely apologise that they have occurred."

Assistant coach Mark Thompson said: "When you live in an environment where you explore new territories - which that was for us - it was something we hadn't done before ... and obviously there is some risk involved."

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Hawk new AFL football boss

Hawthorn football manager Mark Evans will be the AFL's new football operations manager Source: Supplied

THE AFL today announced Hawthorn general manager of football operations Mark Evans as Adrian Anderson's replacement.

In a boost for clubs who wanted the new AFL football operations manager to come from club-land, Evans won the role after a tight race from several key candidates both from within and outside the league.

SuperFooty exclusively revealed the appointment this morning, which was confirmed at an AFL press conference.

Evans is a highly regarded football official, having served a number of years with the Hawks and also with Melbourne.

He has been instrumental in the re-making of the Hawthorn Football club, joining the Hawks at the same time as coach Alastair Clarkson in late 2004.

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Evans, who last year attended the Harvard Business School as part of his role at the Hawks, said he would not make any "grand statements" until he had runs on the board at the AFL.

"I was absolutely delighted to accept Andrew's offer to join his executive team. This is the best sporting administration going around, without a doubt," he said at AFL headquarters today.

"I know the role will be challenging and I hope that my background … will stand my in good stead for what's ahead."

Jon Ralph analysis: Clubs get voice at the top

Evans thanked the Hawks for their support over the past nine years, while AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou said the league was thrilled to snare the one-time Demons media manager.

"We're absolutely delighted that Mark has accepted the role, I'm thrilled and pleased we were able to attract someone of Mark's calibre and experience."

Who is Mark Evans?

Mark played for Box Hill from 1992-1995 and in 2010 was awarded life membership to recognise 10 years' service as a player and administrator. He is currently a Hawthorn director and is a former director of Sandringham Football Club.

Evans holds a Bachelor of Education from Ballarat University and in 2012 completed key executive programs in strategy, strategic leadership, negotiation and innovation at the Harvard Business School.

He is also studying for a Master of Business Administration from Southern Cross University in topics including sport and the law, economics and labour market in sport, leadership and culture, marketing, communications and crisis management.
 

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Blues, Lions set for bumper years

Jonathan Brown will try and lead Brisbane to its first ever pre-season title on Friday night. Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: Herald Sun

LOCK in at least one of Carlton or the Brisbane Lions to burst into the top four this season and expect both to see September action.

That is if recent NAB Cup form is any guide to the season proper.

Not since Denis Pagan's bizarre pre-season success – where the Blues collected wok-shaped cups in 2005 and 2007 only to disastrously bomb out in the real stuff – has a NAB Cup grand finalist missed the eight.

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In fact, the past 10 pre-season grand finalists have unearthed winter-time success.

They've netted seven top-four finishes, two runner-ups and one premier, when the Cats collected the 2009 premiership double in the midst of their golden era.

Each of the past five NAB Cup deciders has foreshadowed a top-four side, while in 2009 and 2010 all four March grand finalists went on to seal double chances.

It took two Grand Finals for NAB Cup runner-up St Kilda to go down in September 2010, six months after it was trounced by a Barry Hall-led Western Bulldogs.

NAB Cup Grand Final. Western Bulldogs v St Kilda. Etihad Stadium. Barry Hall with the trophy. Picture: Darren Tindale Source: HWT Image Library

The Dogs finished fourth that season, edged by the Saints in a preliminary final.

Adelaide's rapid rise last season surprised most – but perhaps was to be expected after collecting the NAB Cup silverware.

The Crows beat West Coast for the pre-season title, before the Eagles went onto finish fifth.

TAB Sportsbet rates Carlton a $2.75 chance to finish in the top four this year, while the Lions are still at $15.

The Blues are $1.35 to make the eight, while Brisbane is sixth last in the betting line at $3.50.

Friday night's clash at Etihad Stadium will be a rematch of the 2007 decider, when the Blues downed the Lions, before NAB Cup grand finals began to consistently unearth impressive sides.

NAB CUP GRAND FINAL FORM GUIDE TO THE REAL SEASON

2008
NAB Cup premier: St Kilda (finished 4th in real season)
Runner-up: Adelaide (5th)

2009
NAB Cup premier: Geelong (Premier)
Runner-up: Collingwood (4th)

2010
NAB Cup premier: Western Bulldogs (4th)
Runner-up: St Kilda (Runner-up)

2011
NAB Cup premier: Collingwood (Runner-up)
Runner-up: Essendon (8th)

2012
NAB Cup premier: Adelaide (3rd)
Runner-up: West Coast (5th)

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TEAMS: Judd back for Blues

Carltons Marc Murphy will step out as Blues captain for the first time on Friday. Picture: Klein Michael Source: Herald Sun

CARLTON star Chris Judd will step out for the first time this pre-season in Marc Murphy's debut as Blues captain on Friday night.

The Blues have named a strong team for the NAB Cup grand final against Brisbane at Etihad Stadium including power forwards Sam Rowe and Levi Casboult.

Coach Mick Malthouse has also included young Josh Bootsma for his first pre-season hit out as the Blues prepare for their Round 1 clash against Richmond on March 28.

Bryce Gibbs returns after being rested for last Friday's 'preliminary final' against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.

But the Blues will go into the decider without reigning best and fairest winner Heath Scotland, Tom Bell and Jeremy Laidler.

Judd has been named on the bench with Matthew Kreuzer and hard-nosed defender Mitch Robinson.

Meanwhile, Lions coach Michael Voss has reunited his emerging 'Three Rs' midfield with Jack Redden joining Tom Rockliff and Daniel Rich for Friday's grand final.

Rockliff and Rich were critical to the Lions defeating Collingwood last Saturday.

Meanwhile, veteran defender Matt McGuire will be looking to win a second pre-season competition medallion following his victory in 2004 with St Kilda.

Injured ruckman Matthew Leuenberger (achilles) has been rested for the match as a precautionary measure.

Rookies Justin Clarke and Sam Michael have been omitted.

TEAMS: NAB Cup Grand Final

CARLTON

B: C.Yarran M.Jamison S.White

HB: N.Duigan L.Henderson Z.Tuohy

C: K.Simpson B.McLean D.Armfield

HF: A.Carrazzo A.Walker K.Lucas

F: S.Rowe L.Casboult E.Betts

Foll: S.Hampson B.Gibbs M.Murphy

INT: C.Judd, M.Kreuzer, M.Robinson, J.Bootsma, E.Curnow, A.Joseph

Emg: Heath Scotland, Jeremy Laidler, Tom Bell

BRISBANE

B: Joel Patfull, Daniel Merrett, Elliot Yeo

HB: Jed Adcock, Matt Maguire, Mitch Golby

C: Patrick Karnezis, Tom Rockliff, Pearce Hanley

HF: Rohan Bewick, Jonathan Brown, Josh Green

F: Aaron Cornelius, Stefan Martin, Dayne Zorko

Foll: Billy Longer, Brent Moloney, Daniel Rich

Int: Sam Docherty, Ashley McGrath, Claye Beams, Andrew Raines, Jack Redden, James Polkinghorne

Emg: Marco Paparone, Ryan Lester, Jack Crisp

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Dusty ready to explode: Hardwick

Richmond's Dustin Martin at pre-season training. Picture: Stuart Walmsley. Source: Herald Sun

A CLOSE bond with former Port Adelaide premiership coach Mark Williams will be the making of Dustin Martin, says Richmond coach Damien Hardwick.

The powerful 21-year-old midfielder had his struggles on and off-field last year, earning a club suspension and failing to live up to the promise of his first two seasons.

But as Martin enters his fourth year, Hardwick says he's fitter, more settled and ready to play the sort of football he's always looked capable of producing.

"The fact is he's working incredibly hard on the field and off the field he's started a part-time job, which we're really excited about," Hardwick said.

"He's getting some stability in his life and he's formed a really close relationship with (new Tigers development coach Mark) Williams.

"We think this will be the making of him as a player.

"He's had a fantastic pre-season, we certainly look forward to him having a good season in 2013.

"I'd be getting him in your (SuperCoach) side, put it that way."

Hardwick rated Martin as the Tigers' best in several of their early pre-season games.

He said even in their nail-biting recent win over Essendon, when Martin played only a half, he was best afield.

It hasn't surprised him, given Martin's training performance.

"He's had an enormous pre-season. He's been very, very good," Hardwick said.

"His fitness work has improved."

The flow-on effect of Martin's increased fitness could be new Richmond captain Trent Cotchin becoming even more damaging.

The 22-year-old, admired for his courageous ball-winning in tight and smart distribution, was already joint runner-up in last year's Brownlow Medal count.

But Hardwick said Martin's readiness for more midfield time, the drafting of promising young midfielder Nick Vlastuin and the development of other youngsters would free up Cotchin.

The coach wants him to get more touches in space and kick more goals.

"We think he's capable of kicking two goals a game on a regular basis so we'll look to exploit that," Hardwick said.

He said while Vlastuin needed to learn where to run to gain more possessions, his toughness and good ball use were great starting ingredients.

"He's got some things that you look at him and go, 'Wow, this kid could be a very good player for us,"' Hardwick said.

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Leuenberger injury setback

2013 preview: The Lions midfield is improving, but Fox Footy expert Brad Johnson says they still rely on their skipper

Matthew Leuenberger works on his tapwork at Lions training at Coorparoo. Picture: Peter Wallis Source: The Courier-Mail

BRISBANE Lions ruckman Matthew Leuenberger has been ruled out of Friday's NAB Cup final and is in doubt for Round 1.

Leuenberger has played just one quarter in the NAB Cup in his comeback from an Achilles injury that he suffered in Round 3 last season.

The Lions revealed today the ruckman was a late withdrawal from last Saturday night's win against Collingwood after pulling up sore following his brief game time against GWS.

He won't play in the NAB Cup final on Friday night and is now in doubt for Brisbane's first home-and-away match against the Western Bulldogs on March 30.

"We're going to give him the best chance to be ready," assistant coach Adrian Fletcher said after training today.

"We go back to three interchange players on the bench and that will make it a little more difficult. He's an important component to our set-up."

The AFL website reports the Lions are waiting on scans to determine if there has been any fresh damage to Leuenberger's foot.

Roos ruck Currie pushes for Round 1 start

But Fletcher was confident the setback is only minor.

"He's had a pretty good run over the pre-season, just had a minor hiccup and we think we'll get him going again Thursday.

"It's not serious at all. We've just got to make sure when it's in that area of the body, you've got to make sure you don't have a hiccup."

Matthew Leuenberger is a $301,100 ruckman in SuperCoach. Click here to start picking your squad now

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No Thomas, Ball for Round 1

2013 preview: The Magpies will struggle to make the top four this season, according to Fox Footy expert Brad Johnson.

Luke Ball has eased back his training load. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD is set to start the season without Luke Ball, Dale Thomas and Alan Didak.

Ball has suffered hamstring soreness following a graft to repair his injured knee, Thomas is recovering slowly from ankle surgery before Christmas, and Didak is almost ready to return from a hamstring injury.

Thomas is listed as 3-4 weeks away on the Magpies injury list with Ball sidelined for three weeks.

Collingwood opens its season against North Melbourne in 19 days.

Last week the Pies admitted they had eased back Ball's training load after he complained of tenderness where a piece of the hamstring tendon was removed to replace his torn knee ligament.

Key defender Reid is listed as 1-2 weeks away from a return after hurting his knee in the Magpies' NAB Cup win against West Coast last week.

Didak, 30, has not appeared at all in the NAB Cup but the Pies say a return is "not far away".

"Alan is getting towards the sharp end of his recovery," football director Geoff Walsh told the club website.

"He is stepping up his training and has had no setbacks. He's on target for a return in three weeks' time."

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Zaharakis still in Round 1 frame

2013 preview: The arrival of Brendon Goddard won't be enough to push the Bombers into the top eight, says Fox Footy expert Brad Johnson.

David Zaharakis will play VFL on Friday for Essendon. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON is seeking permission from the AFL to play several underdone players in its VFL team in a practice match on Friday night.

Midfielders David Zaharakis and Jake Melksham head the list the Bombers want to get urgent match fitness before the AFL opening round.

Under AFL and Players' Association rules, a club must get approval to trial players the weekend before its first home-and-away game.

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Zaharakis (strained thigh) and Melksham (broken hand) have missed the NAB Cup and are short of match conditioning for the first game against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium on Friday week.

"We've applied for eight to 10 players who have had missed or interrupted preparations to play in this VFL match,'' Bombers football operations manager Danny Corcoran said.

"With the extended interchange bench, some players have played only half games. So, we'll just wait for the approval to come through. The AFL will declare who's available.''

Zaharakis, sidelined for almost the entire second half of last season with a severe quad muscle injury, is ready to go again following a minor recurrence of the same ailment at training in late January.

Melksham managed only one NAB Cup appearance after being accidentally kicked in the hand during an intraclub game.

Injury-prone forward Scott Gumbledon, who played three quarters with the VFL team last weekend, is another the Bombers want to play against Bendigo Gold at Windy Hill on Friday.

Essendon's senior list will train normally this week and have the weekend off.

Forward Michael Hurley will appreciate the break to rest the sprained ankle from the last NAB Cup game against the GWS Giants in Canberra. "He'll be fine. They just put him in the (moon) boot to slow him down,'' Corcoran said.

Meanwhile, Collingwood and North Melbourne are both set to be weakened for their Round 1 clash.

The Roos will be without suspended defender Scott McMahon, while Dale Thomas and Luke Ball look set to miss through injury.

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Face facts, Ablett just too good

Gold Coast captain Gary Ablett reclaims top billing from Hawthorn superstar Lance Franklin, who has dropped to fourth spot in Mike's Top 50. Picture: Adam Head Source: The Courier-Mail

IS THE worth of a great player diminished in a team sport simply because he plays for a lowly team, as some would have you believe of Gary Ablett?

The cynics argue the Gold Coast champion is pretty much allowed to do as he pleases by the better teams because those teams know they are vastly superior overall.

They say it doesn't matter as much if he has 40-plus possessions, the result in most cases is a foregone conclusion.

I say that's nonsense.

It seems to me every team that has a player good enough to run with Ablett assigns that player to the little bloke; he simply burns them off as the game unfolds.

Consider the following stats from 2012 and then find a fault in the Ablett package.

He finished sixth in the Brownlow in a team that won three games, he led his club in the following categories: long kicks, short kicks, handballs given, handballs received, tackles, inside-50s, rebounds from defensive 50, hardball gets and looseball gets.

He was equal-third for contested marks, too.

SUBSCRIBER EXCLUSIVE: CLICK HERE TO SEE MIKE'S FULL LIST PLUS EXCLUSIVE FOX FOOTY VIDEO AND RATE EVERY PLAYER

If there was a category for ground covered in a game, I suspect he would have won that one, too.

Even his famous father would have to nod in appreciation of such a comprehensive list.

Gary Ablett Jr is the most complete player in the game.

It was the view of a massive percentage of the player group of 2012, it is the assessment of so many neutral supporters and me in my annual task picking the top 50 players in the AFL in order.

The argument that he should be downgraded because his team is down the bottom is simplistic, fatuous, disrespectful.

Is Bobby Skilton's exalted status in the game diminished by the fact he won more Brownlows (three) than he played finals (one)?

The same question can be asked of Kevin Murray, who played finals in just two of his 18 seasons with Fitzroy, yet won nine club best and fairest awards and represented Victoria 24 times. Another all-time great.

TONIGHT: WATCH MIKE LIVE ON AFL360 ON FOX FOOTY FROM 7.30pm EDT

Ablett Jr plays a different game to his father, yet both will be remembered as legends of the game.

The younger Ablett has been voted by his peers the most valuable player in the game four times - at two clubs.

His father, widely regarded as the most talented player ever, won the award once. Wayne Carey, the best player I have seen, won the MVP twice.

Enough. Surely the debate is won.

Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

Collingwood's Scott Pendlebury comes in second.

He is a superb player, deceptively tall at 191cm, not a speedster yet rarely run down, possessed of huge endurance and resilience, and he has an outstanding work ethic - he led Collingwood for tackles last year despite missing four games.

He has finished top three in Collingwood's best-and-fairest in five of the past six years.

TOMORROW: BLOG LIVE WITH MIKE FROM 11.30AM AEDT

I have elevated Patrick Dangerfield to third spot.

While it's death by a thousand cuts with Ablett and Pendlebury, Dangerfield can turn a game in five minutes.

They say his teammates call him "Raging Bull''; what the rest of us know is he was born to wear Mark Ricciuto's No.32 guernsey.

He is about to turn 23, he has played 89 games and kicked 94 goals, he is the most dynamic midfielder in the game, a reminder of the young Chris Judd at West Coast.

Picture: Klein Michael Source: Herald Sun

I have pushed Buddy Franklin down from No 1 12 months ago to No 4.

He remains the most exciting player in the game, yet the flaws remain.

He isn't strong overhead and no one with any level of interest in football needs to be told about his kicking for goal.

He booted 69.64 from 19 games last year, including 3.4 in the Grand Final. Remove the 13 he kicked in the picnic against North Melbourne in Launceston in Round 10 - OK, give him five, his next best return last year - and it's an average of just better than three a game.

What was encouraging was a one-grab pack mark against the Western Bulldogs in the recent NAB Cup game and a significant reduction in the bend in his run-up when kicking for goal.

Franklin is followed by four high-quality midfielders - Josh Kennedy, Joel Selwood, Trent Cotchin and Jobe Watson - who could have come in any order.

Cotchin might end up being the best of them because of his dash, but, for the moment, Selwood's record is amazing, while Kennedy and Watson are blue-collar men with energy, strength, nous and impact.

Scott Barbour/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

The second punt in my top 10 - Dangerfield might be seen as a gamble at No 3 - is his Adelaide teammate, Taylor Walker.

He is a natural key forward who reminds me a little of the young Tony Lockett.

He is a superb athlete for a man of such imposing dimensions - 192cm, 100kg - has nice hands and is a thumping kick. Accurate, too (63.35 last year).

He kicked four or more goals in 11 of his 19 games. He thrived under Brenton Sanderson, although a couple of lapses of discipline cost him five games to suspension.

At 22 (23 late in April), the sky is the limit for him.

There's a school of thought he will suffer from the departure of Kurt Tippett, with more opposition pressure coming his way.

His ability to cover ground and score from up to 60m will solve that potential problem.

CLICK HERE TO SEE MIKE'S FULL TOP 50 AND HAVE YOUR SAY

Dayne Beams rounds off the top 10. His development - on and off the field - in the past couple of years is extraordinary.

Best-and-fairest in 2012, a member of the leadership group in 2013. Wow. That's what a wild young man can do when he realises he has both rare talent and a rare opportunity

As always, lots of good players miss a berth in the 50.

Jordan Lewis is desperately unlucky, but how many midfielders can you have before the list becomes unbalanced? I have 30.

Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

Lewis Jetta also was in until the final scan. He is a gamebreaker who was the leading goalkicker for the premiership team last year. Spots in the 50 don't come easy; he needs to back up again this year.

Then there's Matthew Boyd and James Kelly and Eddie Betts and Michael Hurley ...

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Hurley ankle scare

Michael Hurley fights for the ball during the Round 2 NAB Cup match at Wangaratta. Source: Getty Images

ESSENSON is confident Michael Hurley will play in the season-opener against Adelaide despite the star forward wearing a moonboot to protect an injured ankle.

Hurley sustained the injury in the Bombers' easy win against Greater Western Sydney in Canberra on Friday.

The Bombers have this weekend off before their March 22 clash with the Crows.

While Hurley climbed onto the stage in his moonboot at the club's family day today, teammate Brent Stanton said he had assured the club he would be ready.

"It's a lot more precautionary than probably what you can see from the outside," Stanton said.

"He's confident, so is the doctor and so are the coaches.

"He's come in this morning - he's done extensive rehab over the last couple of days.

"But he's reassured us that it's just a general rolled ankle and he's going to be right to go in two weeks' time against Adelaide."

Stanton said the Bombers were content with their preparation after the 91-point thrashing of GWS, despite the Giants managing just three scoring shots in the the second half.

"GWS still had a very good crack at us and we were able to withstand it," Stanton said.

"We played the way we wanted to play - we were pretty happy with that.

"But we've still got a long way in terms of where we want to get to in our defensive structures."

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Jurrah arrives in court for trial

A fatal car crash at Torrens Park, fallen AFL star Liam Jurrah on trial in Alice Springs and Crow Jason Porplyzia back at training after being admitted to hospital

UPDATE 2.50PM: Former AFL star Liam Jurrah has arrived in court for the start of his assault trial.

Dressed in dark pants and a light blue shirt, Jurrah was accompanied by his legal team as he walked into the Alice Springs Supreme Court a short time ago. 

Jurrah, 24, was arrested and charged with unlawfully causing harm after an alleged feud ended in violence at the Little Sisters Town Camp on Alice Springs' outskirts.

Jurrah has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The trial is expected to hear evidence from 19 witnesses and is listed to run for five days before Chief Justice Trevor Riley.

Jurrah's legal team is headed by Darwin lawyer Jon Tippett QC.

Former Melbourne star Jiam Jurrah in a former appearance at Alice Springs Court. Picture: Chloe Geraghty

A large media contingent is converging on Alice Springs, as also occurred during Jurrah's committal hearing last year.

Jurrah was delisted by Melbourne after playing 36 games over four seasons.

Since his delisting, Jurrah has been living in Adelaide's northern suburbs and has not taken up an offer to play for the Port Adelaide Magpies' SANFL team.

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Essendon season preview

Can Essendon overcome the off-field distractions to feature in the finals in 2013?

The cliche "pre-season from hell" doesn't even begin to describe what the Bombers have been through.

The supplements scandal has been discussed in detail elsewhere, suffice to say it can't be easy to concentrate on playing footy when the club is in the middle of multiple investigations that could drag coaches and players before interrogators at any moment.

With all the other news around the club, Essendon's dramatic form slump last season has largely been forgotten.

Essendon won eight of its first nine games in 2012 - then three of their next 13.

Individual players suffered huge form reversals - Brent Stanton and Stewart Crameri were highlighted, but they weren't alone - injuries struck and the Bombers even forgot how to kick, going from one of the highest kicking effiency ranking teams to second last ahead of only GWS.

Exclusive video: Watch Fox Footy expert Brad Johnson answer the hard questions about the Bombers in the video player above

So where does all that leave the Bombers entering 2013?

In terms of personnel, not a lot has changed although the one arrival is significant - former Saint Brendon Goddard.

Goddard can fill two desperate needs at Windy Hill - pinpoint kicking and offer some help for Jobe Watson in the middle of the ground.

As good as Jobe is - and he is very, very good - he has been left to do it all on his own for far too long.

Check out our top Essendon SuperCoach picks here

The other significant addition to the list is boom father-son recruit Joe Daniher, but don't expect too much of him this season.

The fate of the Bombers in 2013 is again likely to come down to the same names we have been talking about for years.

Picture gallery: Essendon family day

Will Paddy Ryder become the consistently dominant ruckman he has threatened to become? Will Michael Hurley take the competition by the scruff of the neck? Can David Myers, Jake Melksham and Tom Bellchambers go from promising to outstanding?

We are likely to have a lot more answers about Essendon - on and off the field - in the next few months. Watch this space.

Check out our previous team previews here:

Adelaide - Tippett leaves huge hole

Brisbane - Fate rests on Browny's shoulders

Carlton - Mick the messiah

Collingwood - good but not good enough

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Suckling to undergo knee reco

Matthew Suckling injured his knee in this contest during today's NAB Cup match against Richmond. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

Matthew Suckling injured his knee in this contest during today's NAB Cup match against Richmond. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

HAWTHORN defender Matthew Suckling's season is over with the superboot opting for a traditional knee reconstruction to repair his torn anterior cruciate ligament.

Hawks footy manager Mark Evans today confirmed the injury following scans on the 24-year-old rebounding defender's knee.

"It's obviously a devastating thing to happen to Matt on the eve of the season, but his attitude will be to throw himself into his rehab program and come back a stronger player from this,'' Evans said.

Coach Alastair Clarkson's dislike for the NAB Cup grew deeper yesterday when Suckling left Aurora Stadium on crutches and seems destined for a season-ending knee reconstruction.

The Hawks' coach, who has labelled the AFL's preseason competition as a TV gimmick and nightmare for coaches, resigned himself to the fact that Suckling's year is over.

Statistically Hawthorn's best rebounding defender last season, Suckling spent the NAB Cup making his case for a spot further upfield with the departure of hard-running Hawk Clinton Young to Collingwood.

Suckling's knee gave way while he was evading a tackle from Richmond defender Troy Chaplin at the seven minute mark of the third quarter of their one-point NAB Cup loss to Richmond in Launceston yesterday.

Click for breaking news and match day coverage

"We've had five knee reconstructions in the past 12 months and that's the brutal nature of the game."

The Hawks coach is already dirty on the AFL for announcing its plan the slash interchange rotations from a league average of 130 per game to a cap of 80 next year.

"Once again, it (Suckling's injury) focuses on how important it is for us all to give serious consideration to the demands of this game on our players," Clarkson said.

"It's a very demanding game, in my view the most difficult ball sport to play in the world.

"We need to be especially mindful of the loads on our players."

The preseason competition, Clarkson said, was the most dangerous time for players.

"Most knee reconstructions happen either in the NAB Cup series or the first five or six rounds of the season," he said.

"We'll get the occasional one after their bodies are hardened and are match-conditioned.

"But this is a real precarious time for the players and unfortunately you're going to lose someone along the way and unfortunately we lost Suckling today.

"That's disappointing, but we'll have to replace him with another bloke and forge on."

Matthew Suckling injured his knee in this contest during today's NAB Cup match against Richmond. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

Hawthorn lost its fourth consecutive NAB Cup match yesterday, going down to the Tigers, who won 0.13..7 (85) to 0.13.6 (84).

Clarkson took solace from the loss,

"They (Richmond) looked to be in control of the contest but we hung in there and that was really pleasing," he said.

"We've played a lot of our young players over the series.

"Interestingly, us and Sydney sit on the bottom of the NAB Cup ladder.

"It's all because our preparations are a lot different to a lot of the sides.

"All four sides we played (Gold Coast, Brisbane, Bulldogs and Tigers) didn't play finals last year so they've had longer campaigns than us.

"We'll get our side a lot more stable over the next few weeks leading into the Geelong game in round one."

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Bombers rely on the silent treatment

Essendon coach James Hird is becoming an expert at swatting away anti-doping investigation queries. Picture: Quinn Rooney. Source: Getty Images

IT was all quiet in the national capital on Friday night as Essendon was confronted with another series of questions after the Cronulla debacle played out just hours before.

It is a delicate situation and arguably the silence from the Bombers hierarchy was either a silence wrapped with confidence or a silence cloaked with fear.

The Bombers flew out of Canberra within 90 minutes of dismantling Greater Western Sydney, and Cronulla, which earlier that day stood down its coach Shane Flanagan after findings of "serious management failures", was a topic for another day.

Bombers' chairman David Evans wouldn't even pass comment about the Cronulla situation.

Chief executive Ian Robson would only say Flanagan was stood down and not sacked to correct a mistake at James Hird's press conference, while Hird has quickly become a pro at swatting away queries about the anti-doping investigations.

We'll talk about the Essendon Football Club and we won't talk about anyone else

"I've said a number of times there's an investigation going on, but the resilience of the players of the Essendon Football Club to go out and play and train the way they're training shows the character of the people and sometimes you need events to happen to work out where the quality of people are," Hird said.

The day before, Hird said it would have been impossible for his players to have not noted the events at Cronulla, where more than a dozen players had been offered six-month suspensions if they came forward to ASADA.

Asked if he, as coach, had noted the controversial actions to stand down Flanagan, Hird said: "I've heard second-hand but, as I said yesterday, we'll talk about the Essendon Football Club and we won't talk about anyone else."

The Cronulla situation has similarities but is not entirely mirrored.

The Bombers might be naive, but they remain extremely confident their players were not given performance-enhancing drugs.

The key plank at both clubs is Stephen Dank, who was employed as a sports scientist briefly at the Sharks in 2011 and who worked for 12 months at Essendon last year.

Dank maintains he has done nothing wrong. The Cronulla investigation suggests otherwise.

What's intriguing is the startling revelations that equine supplements were given to Cronulla players.

That will cause more concern for the Bombers.

The internal Cronulla investigation, which saw Flanagan stood down and four others sacked, was run by ASADA's former deputy chair Dr Tricia Kavanagh, who took no prisoners.

The Bombers also have an internal inquiry, but theirs is being run by former Telstra chief Ziggy Switkowski.

At the centre of both is the management processes.

Evans has admitted Essendon is aware of mistakes it has made, and AFL boss Andrew Demetriou recently made it crystal clear what he thought of the practices of Essendon players being taken off site to be given injections, with suggestions an external doctor was used, as well as a registered nurse.

We can only wait to see what further blood-letting happens at Essendon.

Dank was let go after Essendon learnt of his activities, which included a serious questioning of his expense accounts, which were revealed by the Herald Sun to be of tens of thousands of dollars.

High performance manager Dean Robinson has been stood down. He is unlikely to return, and has started legal proceedings against Essendon.

And football manager Paul Hamilton resigned. Hamilton is said to have not known of Dank's activities.

Internally, the Bombers believe they haven't been inactive as they confront the club's biggest scandal.

The critics say they should have been as active when players were being shuttled across the road from Windy Hill, where maybe police had surveillance on the clinic.

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Voss anger at AFL Brisbane snub

Brisbane coach Michael Voss reckons the Lions were controlled in using the ball during their NAB Cup win against Collingwood.

AN angry Brisbane Lions coach Michael Voss has smashed the AFL for denying his side a home NAB Cup final.

The Lions will face Carlton in the pre-season decider on Friday night, but despite being the only undefeated side in the competition, will be made to travel back to enemy territory at Etihad Stadium.

"It's very disappointing. Which issue do you want to raise?" Voss said.

"Do you want to raise the fact we've lost the chance to advertise our game in the south east of Queensland?

"Or do you want to raise that if the Gold Coast were playing this game whether they would be playing in Queensland?

Brisbane coach Michael Voss prepares to talk to his players in the NAB Cup match against Collingwood. Picture: Robert Prezioso.

"We're happy to come down here because we've got a Victorian supporter base and they're terrific.

"But the NRL has already started their season and we've got two Queensland teams who aren't playing in Queensland this weekend.

"We haven't played a home match at all and we're not going to ... clearly it's not acceptable."

NAB Cup final round schedule

Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley reckons the Pie's NAB Cup match with the Brisbane Lions was 'terrible.'

The Gabba is unavailable due to cricket commitments. The Suns' Metricon Stadium loomed as the next-best option, but the AFL has chosen Etihad because it believes it will attract the biggest possible attendance.

Voss, who had been encouraged by watching his side storm over a depleted Collingwood in the second half to win by 34 points last night, was visibly angered when the line of questioning moved to the venue for Friday's night's Grand Final.

"It's captain's call so we move on, but I just think we've lost a terrific opportunity," Voss said.

"We're trying to grow our own supporter base, we've had a tough couple of years and we're trying to grow it again and any opportunity you get to do that why wouldn't we be doing it? I don't understand.

"We sit up here as ambassadors of the game, we're in the northern outpost trying to grow the game.

"We've missed a chance to grow our supporter base against another code that happens to be the dominant, No.1 code in our state.

"We've missed that chance and that leaves me quite angry because I've been up there for 20 plus years."

Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley did a double-take when told the Brisbane-Carlton match would not be played in Queensland.

"Where is it?" Buckley said.

"We discussed it late in the game in the box that clearly Brisbane are the undefeated side and they get home ground advantage, so we presumed the game would be at Metricon.

"Vossy has got every right to be disappointed."

Buckley described last night's loss as "terrible game of footy", but praised several of his younger players in what was an experimental line-up. Dane Swan, Scott Pendlebury, Heath Shaw and Travis Cloke were all rested.

Asked about Swan's unauthorised TV interview, Buckley said his star player deserved to be fined.

"Our players know the rules and Dane and his management didn't follow the rules so it's pretty simple," he said.

"There was a commercial gain individually for something that he didn't follow the collective protocols. Dane knows it, I know it, 'Perty' (CEO Gary Pert) knows it, every player at the football club knows it, so it was a no-brainer.

"It's pretty simple, If you don't follow the expectations and needs and demands of the football club you cop your whack and move on.

"It's not a huge issue, but five grand is not a sniff of money, there's a fair bit there and I dare say that 'Swanny' would understand you couldn't do it the same way next time.

"It doesn't take away any of the positives that we're seeing from a football perspective. He or his management, whoever was responsible for letting (people) know what was going on, made a poor decision."

Last night's match started in sauna-like conditions - the mercury was still 32C at the opening bounce - and both sides rotated to the extreme.

With the controversial interchange cap lifted due to the heat, Collingwood finished with an extraordinary 168 rotations and Brisbane 143.

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