Craig silent on Dank claims

Neil Craig speaks with Mark Neeld today. Picture: Mark Dadswell

MELBOURNE'S director of coaching Neil Craig refused to answer questions today whether he or the club had links with controversial sports scientist Stephen Dank.

Craig was quizzed before today's training session at Gosch's paddock as the Demons prepare for tomorrow's clash against Greater Western Sydney at the MCG.

"As you know there is obviously an inquiry in place so I have to respect that and I can't make any comment on any of that,'' Craig said.

Dank and Melbourne club doctor Dan Bates, who stood down yesterday, allegedly exchanged several text messages where details of supplements, injections and player names were disclosed.

The AFL and ASADA are now investigating the allegations, but AFL boss Andrew Demetriou is furious that the Demons had earlier told the league the club had no involvement with Dank who had applied for a job with Melbourne.

Mark Neeld coach of the Demons addresses his players during the Melbourne Football Club's AFL training session at Gosch's Paddock in Richmond, Melbourne, on Saturday 20th April, 2013. Picture: Dadswell Mark Source:

Melbourne co-captain Jack Trengove, one of the players named in the text messages, was also asked about the supplement program after today's leisurely 45-minute training session.

"We are very confident with the processes the club has undertaken and we are going forward from here and we have a game to play on the weekend,'' he said.

"I can't wait to get out there.''

Asked about Dank, Trengove replied: "As I said again, we are very confident with the processes of the club going forward.

"It's a big game this weekend and a really important one for us.''

Melbourne coach Mark Neeld stepped in and told reporters that Trengove had answered enough questions.

Only about 30 people watched the Demon session. Most interest centred on the clean shaven Jack Watts who had just shaved off his much-talked about Ned Kelly beard

Jack Watts of the Demons kicks for goal during the Melbourne Football Club's AFL training session at Gosch's Paddock in Richmond, Melbourne, on Saturday 20th April, 2013. Picture: Dadswell Mark Source:

Watts' beard sparked a frenzy, with some commentators saying the out-of-form player, who was recalled for tomorrow's clash after being dumped after the Round 2 Essendon mauling, should not be drawing attention to him when he's struggling for form.

Channel 7 and Triple M's Luke Darcy was particularly scathing in his criticism of Watts' facial hair, saying he should not "have a flare over his head'' when he can't get a kick.

Everyone has high expectations on Jack Watts. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

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Cats sweat on Menzel knee scare

Geelong forward Daniel Menzel injured in today's VFL match against Box Hill. Picture: Mike Dugdale Source: Geelong Advertiser

LUCKLESS Geelong forward Daniel Menzel's return has hit a snag with the young gun off the ground icing his left reconstructed knee.

The 21-year-old made his VFL comeback last week from LARS surgery in December, his third knee reconstruction.

Menzel went down during the second quarter clutching his knee after a tackle from Kyle Cheney.

He made his own way off the ground.

Menzel will sit out the second half as a precaution.

The Cats will be sweating on scans as early as today to reveal the full extent of the injury.

Menzel had worked his way into the match against Box Hill kicking the goal to put the Cats in front during a hotly contested first half.

He was reported during the second quarter for charging Box Hill skipper, former North Melbourne defender, Daniel Pratt.

Menzel snapped his right anterior cruciate ligament in the 2011 qualifying final. He did the same thing to his left leg in his VFL comeback match last year.

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Hawks pound Dockers in Tassie

Buddy Franklin was all smiles as the Hawks won by seven goals. Picture: Tim Carrafa

HAWTHORN continued its strong early-season form, beating an undermanned Fremantle 42 points.

Midfielder Shaun Burgoyne and defender Grant Birchall were outstanding as the Hawks made the most of a strong first term, winning 18.10 (118) to 11.10 (76) to stand at 3-1 for the season.

Key forwards Lance Franklin and Jarryd Roughead kicked four goals apiece in a poorly-attended Launceston match.

After only kicking two behinds in the first term, Fremantle rallied and were only 17 points down early in the final term.

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But the Hawks kicked the last four goals of the game.

The game only attracted 12,619 fans - the lowest for a Hawthorn home game and the second-lowest AFL crowd at Aurora Stadium.

Hawthorn lost key defender Ryan Schoenmakers with a serious-looking knee injury in the second term.

Schoenmakers hyper-extended his right knee on the wing and was helped from the field.

A few minutes later, Fremantle surprisingly subbed Nick Suban out of the game.

Suban only had two disposals and coach Ross Lyon was brutally honest about the reason for the early substitution.

"There's nothing wrong with him - we just thought he hasn't touched it," Lyon told Channel Seven.

Lachie Neale, who came on for Suban, was lively and kicked a goal.

Fremantle also suffered a pre-game blow when Luke McPharlin was ruled out.

He did not recover in time from Paddy Ryder's heavy hit last weekend, an incident that earnt the Essendon ruckman a three-game suspension.

That meant the Dockers were without McPharlin, captain Matthew Pavlich (achilles) and ruckman Aaron Sandilands.

They represent 677 AFL games between them and the Dockers' top three players.

After Fremantle had the play bottled up in their forward 50m for the opening five minutes, Hawthorn had a four-goal burst in seven minutes.

The Hawks kicked another just before quarter-time for a 30-point lead.

Fremantle hit back with their first goal in the opening minute of the second term.

The Dockers improved noticeably at the stoppages and there was no change in the margin at halftime.

After losing the clearances 16-7 in the first term, Fremantle were ahead 21-17 at the long break.

Acting captain David Mundy and Nathan Fyfe were prominent in the Dockers fightback.

Hawthorn extended the margin to 44 points midway through the third term, but the Dockers kicked the last two goals of the quarter to keep the margin at a manageable 28 points.

AAP rhv/ajw/rf

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Pies rise to expose Tigers

Travis Cloke celebrates one of his seven goals. Picture: Mark Dadswell

ON Friday, Travis Cloke put his dislocated finger back in its place.

Today, he put Richmond back in theirs with a stunning seven-goal haul to lift Collingwood past the Tigers by 34 points at the MCG.

The Magpies' 16.17 (113) to 11.13 (79) victory in front of more than 81,000 fans burst the Tigers' unbeaten bubble and showcased Collingwood's finals credentials on a day Richmond had desperately hoped to show their own.

Cloke had suffered a finger injury at training on match eve.

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But after two quarters of arm-wrestling, Cloke put Richmond in the tightest of half-nelsons in the third term.

He booted the opening three goals of the quarter, then soon after gave his side a 30-point buffer with a quality 50-metre goal from deep in the right forward pocket.

It was part of a run of eight unanswered goals to start the term - the Magpies upping their tackling pressure and forcing Richmond into error after error.

With Steele Sidebottom also prominent with two of his four goals in the term and midfielder Dane Swan brilliant, the Magpies battered Richmond to take a 36-point lead to the final change.

The Tigers didn't give in, battling back to give themselves a sniff with goals to Jack Riewoldt and Ivan Maric to open the final term.

But Collingwood gained breathing space with a Swan mark and goal soon afterwards, before Cloke iced the match with a set shot from the left boundary line.

In his 200th AFL game, Swan had 35 possessions - 13 coming in the final quarter.

Collingwood's effort was made all the more meritorious with five of their best 22 missing through injury.

Magpies defender Nathan Brown might add to that list, with a groin injury sustained in the final term and just a five-day turnaround until their next game - the Anzac Day clash with Essendon.

Riewoldt booted three goals for the Tigers, who also lost key defender Troy Chaplin when concussed by a teammate, and small forward Jake King to what appeared to be a hamstring injury.

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Teams: Watts a walk-up start

Jack Watts is back for the Dees. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE coach Mark Neeld has gifted No. 1 draft pick Jack Watts an instant reprieve despite the struggling defender not playing football at any level last week.

Watts was named in a back pocket ahead of Sunday's critical clash against Greater Western Sydney.

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Ruckman Max Gawn, who has not played since 2011, is also set to return after being named in the starting 18.

Watts was axed last week but, instead of playing for VFL affiliate Casey, was taken to the MCG on standby ahead of the Eagles clash.

"Jack missed last week's game, based on his training form, attitude and the way we want to set our backline, he gets another opportunity to show what he can do," Dees football manager Josh Mahoney said.

The Demons will name their omissions tomorrow, when the 25-man squad is trimmed to 22.

The Western Bulldogs have been decimated further by the loss of star Robert Murphy.

The stand-in captain injured his calf and joins Shaun Higgins (foot), Easton Wood (hamstring) and Tory Dickson (ankle) as forced changes ahead of the clash with Adelaide on Sunday.

The Dogs have also lost young midfielder Lin Jong with a broken leg.

But skipper Matthew Boyd will face the Crows, while prized draft picks Jackson Macrae and Jake Stringer are both named in the squad and likely to debut.

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Welcome to the major league, lads: Jake Stringer and Jackson Macrae after being selected at No.5 and No.6 by the Western Bulldogs. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

A settled Richmond made no changes ahead of its blockbuster clash against Collingwood.

The Magpies brought back youngsters Paul Seedsman and Josh Thomas at the expense of veteran Ben Johnson (calf) and Jack Frost.

Geelong has regained defender Jared Rivers for Friday night's match against Sydney, while George Horlin-Smith also returns at the expense of Travis Varcoe (shoulder) and Jordan Murdoch.

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ROUND 4 GAMES

SYDNEY v GEELONG, 7.50pm Friday at the SCG

SYDNEY
B: L.Roberts-Thomson, H.Grundy, N.Smith
HB: M.Mattner, T.Richards, N.Malceski
C: R.O'Keefe, K.Jack, L.Jetta
HF: J.Bolton, S.Reid, D.Hannebery
F: M.Pyke, A.Goodes, B.McGlynn
Foll: S.Mumford, J.Kennedy, J.McVeigh
I/C: T.Armstrong, M.Morton, L.Parker, D.Rampe
Emerg: C.Bird, A.Everitt, J.White

In: M.Morton , D.Rampe
Out: C.Bird (omitted) , A.Everitt (omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Josh Kennedy doesn't look like slowing down anytime soon. Currently the third-most expensive player in the league behind Scott Pendlebury and Gary Ablett, he leads the competition for contested possessions and ranks sixth for clearances.

GEELONG
B: T.Hunt 19, T.Lonergan 13, C.Enright 44,
HJ.Corey 11, H.Taylor 7, A.Mackie 4,
C: M.Duncan 22, J.Bartel 3, B.Smedts 2,
HF: P.Chapman 35, J.Podsiadly 31, S.Motlop 32,
F: T.West 12, T.Hawkins 26, S.Johnson 20
Foll: M.Blicavs 46, J.Selwood 14, M.Stokes 27,
I/C J.Rivers 25, J.Caddy 23, G.Horlin-Smith 33, A.Christensen 28,
Emerg: J.Murdoch 21, M.Brown 1, J.Thurlow 40

In: J.Rivers , G.Horlin-Smith
Out: T.Varcoe (Shoulder) , J.Murdoch (Omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Jimmy Bartel finished with 27 disposals, 10 contested possessions, three tackles and a combined seven inside 50s/rebound 50s when he last came up against the Swans at the SCG in Round 13 last season. His tally of 97 points was the third-best return of any Cats player for the match.

HAWTHORN v FREMANTLE, 1.45 pm Saturday at Aurora Stadium

HAWTHORN
B: J.Gibson 6, R.Schoenmakers 25, L.Hodge 15
HB: S.Burgoyne 9, B.Stratton 24 G.Birchall 14
C: L.Shiels 26, Mitchell 5 B.Hill 10
HF: P.Puopolo 28, L.Franklin 23, I.Smith 16
F: J.Gunston 19 , J.Roughead 2, L.Breust 22
Foll: D.Hale 20, C.Rioli 33, J.Lewis 3
I/CT.Duryea 41, M.Bailey 39, M.Osborne 7, B.Guerra 18
Emerg: S.Savage 21, B.Lake 17, A.Litherland 31

In: M.Osborne
Out: J.Anderson (hamstring)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
With scores of 103 and 122 points in his first two matches, expect to see Luke Hodge's price skyrocket after his next match. He finished with 31 disposals, 17 contested possessions, four clearances, six inside 50s and two goals last week against Collingwood.

FREMANTLE
B: L.Spurr 34, Z.Dawson3, M.Johnson37
HB: N.Suban 8, L.McPharlin 18, P.Duffield 41
C: T.Mzungu 13, R.Crowley 15, C.Pearce 46
HF: M.De Boer 9, K.Bradley 26, N.Fyfe 7
F: H.Ballantyne 1, C.Mayne23, M.Walters10
Foll: J.Griffin12 D.Mundy16, S.Hill 32
I/C: M.Barlow 21, D.Pearce 6, C.Sutcliffe 33, L.Neale 27
Emerg: J.Hannath 38, H.Crozier 17, Tanner Smith 22

In: L.Neale
Out: M.Pavlich (Achilles)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Michael Barlow was one of very few winners for Fremantle when they last played at Aurora Stadium in Round 8 last season, amassing 98 points. He finished with 27 disposals, 11 contested possessions, four clearances, seven inside 50s and six tackles.

RICHMOND v COLLIGNWOOD, 2.10pm Saturday at the MCG

RICHMOND
B: S.Morris 38, A.Rance 18, T.Chaplin 25
HB: D.Grimes 2, R.Petterd 13, B.Houli 14
C: C.Newman 1, T.Cotchin 9, R.Conca 30
HF: B.Deledio 3, S.Edwards 10, D.Jackson 23
F: L.McGuane 16, J.Riewoldt 8, T.Vickery 29
Foll: I.Maric 20, D.Martin 4, S.Tuck 21
I/C: B.Ellis 5, J.King 28, S.Grigg 6, C.Knights 15
Emg: J.Batchelor 11, R.Nahas 26, N.Vlastuin 31

NO CHANGE

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Ivan Maric is one of only four ruckmen to score at least 100 points in all three matches this season. Despite averaging fewer hitouts compared to last year he has been more effective, recording a career-high hitout-to-advantage rate of 38 per cent.

COLLINGWOOD
B: N.Brown 16, A.Toovey 34, B.Reid 20
HB: M.Clarke 9, H.Shaw 39, H.O'Brien 8
C: S.Sidebottom 22, D.Swan 36, D.Thomas 13
HF: J.Elliott 19, T.Cloke 32, Q.Lynch 21
F: B.Sinclair 28, T.Goldsack 6, S.Dwyer 41
Foll: B.Hudson 25, S.Pendlebury 10, J.Blair 11
I/C: A.Fasolo 1, J.Russell 2, J.Thomas 24, P.Seedsman 40
Emg: B.Macaffer 3, B.Kennedy 27, J.Frost 45

In: J.Thomas, P.Seedsman
Out: B.Johnson (calf), J.Frost

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Dane Swan will be looking to celebrate his 200th AFL game this week against Richmond in style. His record against the Tigers since 2009 has been outstanding, averaging 151 points per match – scoring a combined 145 more points than any other player at the club.

ESSENDON v ST KILDA, 4.40pm Saturday at Etihad Stadium

ESSENDON
B: C.Dempsey, J.Carlisle, M.Baguley,
HB: C.Hooker, T.Pears, B.Stanton,
C: J.Winderlich, J.Watson, D.Zaharakis,
HF: B.Howlett, D.Hille, S.Crameri,
F: A.Davey, M.Hurley, B.Goddard,
Foll: T.Bellchambers, D.Heppell, H.Hocking,
I/C: J.Melksham, J.Merrett, M.Hibberd, D.Myers,
Emerg: T.Colyer, N.Lovett-Murray, S.Gumbleton

In: D.Hille , J.Winderlich , T.Pears , M.Baguley , J.Merrett
Out: P.Ryder (Suspension) , T.Colyer (Omitted) , N.Kommer (Suspension) , E.Kavanagh (Omitted) , D.Fletcher (Groin)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Paddy Ryder's three-game suspension is a massive blow to over 25,000 coaches, especially after he recorded a whopping 145 points last week against Fremantle. A straight swap for a similarly priced Sam Jacobs is the way to go.

ST KILDA
B: N.Wright, T.Simpkin,D.Roberton
HB: J.Geary, R.Stanley, S.Gilbert
C: N.Dal Santo, L.Hayes, S.Fisher
HF: L.Montagna, N.Riewoldt, T.Milera
F: S.Milne, B.Maister, A.Saad
Foll: B.McEvoy, D.Armitage, J.Steven
I/C A.Siposs, C.Jones, T.Lee, F.Ray
Emerg: T.Hickey, S.Ross, T.Dennis-Lane

In: T.Simpkin , A.Siposs
Out: J.Blake (omitted) , J.Newnes (jaw)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Nathan Wright hit the ground running on debut last week against the Giants, collecting 67 points from 89% game time. He finished with 22 disposals (82% disposal efficiency), 13 handball-receives and three rebound 50s. A good bench option for your defence.

WEST COAST v CARLTON, 7.40pm Saturday at Patersons Stadium

WEST COAST
B: W.Schofield 31, D.Glass 23, J.Brennan 14
HB: S.Hurn 25, E.Mackenzie 16, S.Butler 26
C: D.Kerr 4, M.Priddis 11, C.Masten 7
HF: J.Cripps 15, J.Kennedy 17, M.LeCras 2
F: A.Hams 43, J.Darling, 27, J.Hill 33
Foll: D.Cox 20, S.Selwood 10, L.Shuey 13
I/C: A.Gaff 3, A.Selwood 37, B.Dalziell 18, C.Sinclair 22
Emg: M.Brown 1, M.Hutchings 34, As.Smith 28
In: E.Mackenzie , B.Dalziell
Out: M.Brown, A.Embley (foot)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Scott Selwood dominated when he last came up against Carlton at Patersons Stadium in Round 12, recording 33 disposals, 14 contested possessions and four clearances. He shut Chris Judd down and racked up 155 points himself – the second-best return of any player on the ground.

CARLTON
B: C.Yarran 13, M.Jamison 40, L.Henderson 23
HB: Z.Tuohy 42, D.Armfield 27, B.Gibbs 4
C: K.Simpson 6, A.Carrazzo 44, M.Robinson 12
HF: C.Judd 5, A.Walker 1, J.Garlett 38
F: E.Curnow 35, S.Hampson 22, S.Rowe 17
Foll: R.Warnock 11, M.Murphy 3, B.McLean 14
I/C: A.Joseph 45, K.Lucas 9, H.Scotland 29, S.White 43
Emerg: D.Buckley 7, D.Ellard 46, N.Duigan 34

In: R.Warnock , E.Curnow , S.White
Out: M.Kreuzer (broken thumb) , M.Davies (hamstring) , D.Buckley

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Sam Rowe's price will rise this week after he plays his third match. He was Carlton's leading target inside 50 last week against Geelong, finishing with 10 disposals, four marks, two goals and 77 points.


GOLD COAST v PORT ADELAIDE, 7.40pm Saturday at Metricon Stadium

GOLD COAST
B: J. Wilkinson, M. Warnock, J. Hutchins
HB: T. Murphy, R. Thompson, G. Broughton
C: M. Rischitelli, G. Ablett, J. Harbrow
HF: D. Prestia, S. May, A. Hall
F: J. Brennan, S. Day, B. Matera
R: C. Dixon, K. Hunt, D. Swallow
INT: Z. Smith, J. O'Meara, H. Bennell, M. Shaw
EMERG: L. Russell, T. McKenzie, D. Stanley

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Jared Brennan led all scorers in last week's clash against Brisbane with 30 disposals and 146 points.

PORT ADELAIDE
B: Tom Jonas, Alipate Carlile, Cameron O'Shea
HB: Jasper Pittard, Jackson Trengove, Lewis Stevenson
C: Kane Cornes, Brad Ebert, Travis Boak
HF: Matthew Broadbent, Justin Westhoff, Angus Monfries
F: Robbie Gray, Jay Schulz, Chad Wingard
Foll: Matthew Lobbe, Hamish Hartlett, Oliver Wines
Int: Campbell Heath, Brent Renouf, Domenic Cassisi, Jake Neade
Emerg: Tom Logan, Sam Colquhoun, Andrew Moore

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Justin Westhoff continued his stellar start to the season with four goals and 150 points against local rival Adelaide. Westhoff is the highest-scoring player in the cometition with an average of 138 points.

MELBOURNE v GWS, 1.10pm Sunday at the MCG

MELBOURNE
B: J.Watts 4, J.Frawley 8, D.Terlich 46
HB: N.Jetta 39, T.McDonald 25, C.Garland 20
C: J.Trengove 9, J.Grimes 31, J.Viney 7
HF: A.Davey 36, M.Clark 11, J.Howe 38
F: L.Tapscott 35, M.Gawn 37, S.Byrnes 10
Foll: M.Jamar 40, C.Sylvia 12, N.Jones 2
I/C (from): J.Toumpas 5, C.Pedersen 21, J.Sellar 30, M.Evans 32, J.Spencer 42, R.Bail 44, M.Jones 45

In: J.Spencer , J.Watts , M.Gawn
Out: -

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Melbourne ranks 18th for inside 50 differentials this season, averaging 30 fewer per match compared to its opposition. This has had a major impact on its forwards, as highlighted by Mitch Clark's price fall of $36,600 – the biggest of any Melbourne player.

GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
B: A.Kennedy 40, T.Mohr 39, P.Davis 1
HB: T.Bugg 14, S.Gilham 38, N.Haynes 19
C: T.Scully 9, C.Ward 8, R.Palmer 7
HF: J.Townsend 31, J.Cameron 18, S.Reid 23
F: L.Sumner 28, S.O'hAilpin 37, S.Frost 48
Foll: J.Giles 26, A.Treloar 17, D.Shiel 5
I/C (from): S.Coniglio 3, T.Golds 15, T.Greene 4, A.Miles 25, L.Plowman 30, A.Tomlinson 20, L.Whitfield 6

In: S.O'hAilpin, R.Palmer, A.Miles, T.Golds, A.Tomlinson, J.Townsend, S.Frost, N.Haynes
Out: D.Brogan (suspension) , C.Hampton, W.Hoskin-Elliott, D.Smith (suspension) , J.Patton (knee)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Jon Patton's season-ending knee injury last week against St Kilda is a cruel blow for the youngster and the competition as well. If you haven't got the funds to upgrade him, then trading down to rookie Sam Mayes is an option worth considering.

ADELAIDE v WESTERN BULLDOGS, 3.15pm Sunday at AAMI Stadium

ADELAIDE
B: L.Brown 16, B.Rutten 25, A.Otten 22
HB: D.Mackay 14, D.Talia 12, B.Reilly 3
C: R.Sloane 9, S.Thompson 5, S.Kerridge 29
HF: M.Wright 11, J.Jenkins 4, R.Douglas 26
F: J.Petrenko 23, T.Walker 13, R.Henderson 45
Foll: S.Jacobs 24, P.Dangerfield 32, B.Crouch 2
I/C (from): M.Jaensch 10, G.Johncock 18, T.Lynch 27, J.Lyons 31, S.McKernan 35, J.Porplyzia 40, R.Laird 46

In: T.Lynch, S.McKernan, S.Kerridge, R.Laird, J.Lyons
Out: N.van Berlo (knee), B.Vince

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Like Adelaide themselves, Patrick Dangerfield has struggled to get going this season, suffering the fifth-biggest price fall of any midfielder in the AFL. Receiving plenty of attention from the opposition, he has had to win more of the ball from a contest than ever before, recording a contested possession rate of 61 per cent.

WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: T.Young 31, J.Roughead 23, L.Picken 42
HB: J.Johannisen 39, D.Morris 38, B.Goodes 44
C: J.Macrae 11, M.Boyd 5, K.Stevens 25
HF: R.Griffen 16, L.Jones 19, D.Giansiracusa 13
F: J.Tutt 15, A.Cordy 49, L.Dahlhaus 6
Foll: W.Minson 27, N.Lower 33, A.Cooney 17
I/C (from): M.Wallis 3, D.Cross 4, J.Stringer 9, C.Smith 14, T.Liberatore 21, C.Howard 30, L.Markovic 37

In: M.Boyd, L.Markovic , A.Cordy , J.Tutt , C.Howard , J.Stringer , J.Johannisen , J.Macrae
Out: R.Murphy (calf), S.Higgins (foot), E.Wood (hamstring), T.Campbell, T.Dickson (ankle)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
If you haven't got Brett Goodes in your side now then I'm afraid you have missed the boat. He has taken the most kick-ins of any player in the competition after three rounds and just enjoyed a $96,800 price increase – the biggest of any player in the AFL.

NORTH MELBOURNE v BRISBANE LIONS, 4.40pm Sunday at Etihad Stadium

NORTH MELBOURNE
B: S. McMahon 42, S. Thompson 16, M. Firitto 11,
HB: A. Mullett 41, N. Grima 17, J. MacMillan 34,
C: D. Wells 8, S. Atley 18, R. Bastinac 3,
HF: B. Cunnington 10, D. Petrie 20, T. Hine 26,
F: L. Thomas 12, T. Goldstein 22, L. Adams 13,
Foll: M. Daw 38, A. Swallow 9, J. Ziebell 7,
I/C: S. Gibson 43, L. Hansen 6, S. Wright 19, L. Anthony 4, L. Greenwood 24, W. Sierakowski 28, B. McKenzie

In: L. Anthony, L. Greenwood , W. Sierakowski, M. Daw, B. McKenzie
Out: R. Tarrant (leg), K. Harper (omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Andrew Swallow has averaged 119 points per game against Brisbane since 2009 – recording a combined 168 more points than any other player at the club. He has averaged seven clearances and tackles per match in that time and is a super option this week.

BRISBANE LIONS
B: J.Adcock, D.Merrett, A.McGrath
HB: S.Docherty ,J.Patfull, A.Raines
C: S.Mayes, T.Rockliff, P.Hanley
HF: D.Zorko, J.Brown, J.Green
F: J.Redden, S.Martin, N.McKeever
Foll: M.Leuenberger, D.Rich, B.Moloney
I/C from: R.Harwood, R.Bewick, M.Paparone, P.Karnezis, J.Polkinghorne, M.Golby, J.Crisp

In: R.Harwood, P.Karnezis, J.Crisp, M.Paparone, S.Docherty
Out: J.Polec (foot), E.Yeo (omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Dayne Zorko has been a shadow of the player he was last season, averaging 30 fewer points per game – the second-biggest fall of any Brisbane player. His defensive play is one area of his game that has dropped off, averaging three fewer tackles per game.

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Magpies say Cloke will play

Sam Edmund, Jay Clark and Ben Dixon join Brad Johnson to discuss their picks ahead of round 4.

Travis Cloke left the training track early today after hurting his finger. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

FORWARD Travis Cloke sent a scare through the Collingwood camp this morning when he was forced to leave training early with a dislocated finger.

But Magpies officials strenuously deny the All-Australian is in any doubt for tomorrow's blockbuster clash with Richmond at the MCG.

Club doctors didn't try to hide the extent of the 26-year-old's mishap as they attempted to put his finger back in to place on the boundary line at Olympic Park.

And teammate Dane Swan said Cloke was showing no ill-effects after training.

"From all reports he's good to go, he popped his finger back in," Swan said.

"I just saw him and he said he's fine, so I think he's fine."

While Cloke's importance to the Magpies line-up cannot be understated, it is the midfield group that Swan believes will go a long way to deciding the game against the Tigers.

Is Tigers midfield the best in the AFL?

Swan praised the way Richmond has started the season and said it was up to the likes of he, Scott Pendlebury and Steele Sidebottom to curb the influence of Trent Cotchin, Brett Deledio and co.

"They've for some very speedy, good types in there," Swan said.

"For me, personally, I think that's where the game will be won or lost.

"If we can beat them in contested footy and clearances, which I suppose everyone says every week, but this week there's nothing more important for me and the other midfielders to give our forwards first use of the ball.

"If we get it in our forward half first it gives is a chance to set up defensively behind it as well."

Ultimate Round 4 SuperCoach formguide

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AFL to grill Dees over Dank link

Melbourne is the second AFL club embroiled in the performance-enhancing drugs controversy after text messages between sports scientist Stephen Dank and club doctor Dan Bates emerged

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou says Melbourne would have broken league rules if it is found to have had an association with Stephen Dank.

The AFL and anti-doping agency ASADA will today grill Melbourne club doctor Dan Bates over text messages he is alleged to have exchanged with Dank. They were due to meet at 10.30am this morning.

"They will be in breach of a rule," Demetriou said on 3AW this morning. "But can I just wait until after we've had a briefing this morning.

"We (AFL) asked the specific question that the media had asked: 'Was Stephan Dank approached or did Stephan Dank approach Melbourne, or was there a discussion around employment at the Melbourne Football Club'.

"And we got the same answer the public got. The people in authority didn't give us the answers."

Demetriou refused to reveal whether the club officials that responded to the AFL's original inquiries remain at the club and also said that "there may be more" to story.

Demetriou also said claims on the ABC's 7.30 Report that it had text messages between Bates and former Essendon sports scientist Dank were inconsistent with what Melbourne had told the AFL.

"They had maintained a position ... that they've never employed Stephen Dank,'' Demetriou told ABC radio.

"If there is an association with Mr Dank, that is inconsistent with what we have been told.''

Demons' full statement: we are clean

Timeline: Melbourne's two years from hell

Sports scientist Stephen Dank.

The ABC's revelations are certain to lead to the ASADA and the AFL widening the probe into supplement use to include the Demons.

Demetriou said Melbourne had some questions to answer if the ABC report was true.

"As of this morning we will be calling in the doctor, the Melbourne Football Club doctor, together with any other relevant officials based on things we'd been told previously,'' Mr Demetriou said.

"There appears to be some inconsistencies.

"If there was an association, regardless of whether there has been an employment agreement, I think that would have been relevant to our briefings.''

Demetriou did not want to speculate on the ramifications for the club, but did say that Melbourne would have broken league rules if it was shown to have mislead the AFL about a relationship with Dank.

"This issue of ethics and trust in our code ... is something that you can't play ping-pong with,'' Mr Demetriou said.

"If anybody hasn't got the message that they must be absolutely truthful ... then there will be consequences.''

Texts trip up Demons

In a lengthy statement on Friday morning, Melbourne said there was no evidence any of its supplements breached the WADA drug code, and that Dank never directly treated players nor worked directly for the club.

But it admitted Bates and Dank had been in communication prior to the launch of ASADA's investigation into Essendon, though Bates always had the final say in any treatment for Demons players.

"At no time was Dank able to directly treat players,'' Melbourne said in its statement.

Demetriou backs silent James Hird

"Dank and Dr Bates communicated via email, phone and text, regarding supplements (prior to the ASADA investigation).

"Our processes require Dr Bates to consider the appropriateness of any treatment and make a determination as to its suitability at all times, to ensure that the welfare of our players is always maintained.''

Neeld: We're level with GWS

The AFL, which last week said Essendon was the only club involved in the wider Australian sport anti-doping investigation, issued the Demons with a ``please explain'' over their involvement with Dank on Thursday night.

"The AFL was not previously aware of the claims broadcast ... by the ABC and these will form part of ongoing investigations by ASADA and the AFL,'' the AFL said in a statement.

"The AFL is urgently seeking a further explanation from Melbourne Football Club about the veracity of the claims and how they can be reconciled with previous statements from the club.''

The ABC alleges the text messages between Dank and Bates continued until the day Essendon fronted a media conference to reveal they had concerns over their supplements program and Dank's work at that club.

AFL Round 4 teams: Watts back for Dees

SOME OF THE ALLEGED TEXT MESSAGES

Dank to Bates: "Meeting with Neil Craig next Tuesday or Wednesday. Spoke to Dave today."

Bates to Dank: "Great."

Dank to Bates: "When we will start Jack Trengove on the AOD?"

Bates to Dank: "Tomorrow"

Bates to Dank: "Where can I get him to pick it up from?"

Dank to Bates: "The pharmacy. Tell him to ring me and he can meet me there."

Bates to Dank: "...Lynden Dunn would like an injection on Thursday if possible (good about Dunny asking, as he is doing it because the other guys have said they feel good). Dan."

Dank to Bates: "Great. I will book him in."

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Ablett, Pies will play through pain

Jay Clark and Scott Gullan say Matthew Leuenberger is the hot SuperCoach buy for Round 4 and offer a left-field captain choice

Scott Pendlebury fires off a handball at Collingwood training. Source: Getty Images

GARY Ablett, Scott Pendlebury and Travis Cloke might not be 100 per cent but they will play this weekend. And did Essendon let a late move out of the bag? To find out more, step into the Panic Room.

WHISPERS

We love a bit of body language and intrigue at training.

This morning James Hird grabbed Nathan Lovett-Murray and put his arm around him for a quick chat. The veteran hasn't been involved so far this season but is named on the emergency list for tomorrow's clash against St Kilda.

Given the Bombers are playing next Thursday as well, don't be surprised if they look at resting anyone who even has the slightest niggle with Lovett-Murray looming large as the man to get the nod.

The person who won't be rested is key forward Michael Hurley, who again ran around with his wrist strapped taking marks and kicking goals without discomfort. James Hird is adamant he will play.

Across town the Pies are equally adamant Travis Cloke will play despite dislocating a finger at training. Midfielder Scott Pendlebury has battled soreness all week but he also moved freely this morning and is certain to play against the Tigers.

Another superstar who will defy injury is Gold Coast captain Gary Ablett, with his swollen hand not expected to keep him out of the clash against Port Adelaide and close mate Ken Hinkley.

Geelong star Steve Johnson travelled to Sydney with his teammates yesterday after convincing the medical staff that his knock on the knee wasn't enough to put him in the stands.

At the Whitten Oval, youngster Jake Stringer will be named for his debut in Adelaide on Sunday despite lacking match fitness after only recently returning from an ankle injury. 

Gold Coast Suns skipper Gary Ablett in action against Collingwood. He picked up more than 50 possessions in this match. Picture: Michael Dodge. Source: The Daily Telegraph

SUPERCOACH ALERT

The Crows sandbagged this kid for a year so you would think he might have some form of ability.

Brad Crouch missed Round 1 but has been a fixture in the midfield for the last couple of weeks which means his price of $115,900 will rise after this weekend.

The aim in the early rounds is to make money so get Crouch in for one of the other young guns whose price has already risen after three rounds. You will thanks us down the track for this one.

Adelaide Crows youngster Brad Crouch is ready to make his debut in round one. Picture: Simon Cross. Source: Sunday Mail (SA)

MONEY MATTERS

Embarassing. Humiliating. Reputation ruining. That's the only way to describe how we are feeling after given Melbourne two weeks of our love. They have been banned forever now we we hope you accept our apology. This week we are liking St Kilda and Carlton as definite upset possibilities while hoping Ross Lyon gets angry and makes the Tassie clash with Hawthorn a low-scoring boring affair.

Round 4 bet:

Fremantle +35.5 $1.82
St Kilda +13.5 $1.95
Carlton +18.5 $1.90
North Melbourne -23.5 $1.90
= $7.57

Sam Edmund, Jay Clark and Ben Dixon join Brad Johnson to discuss their picks ahead of round 4.

ON NOTICE

Jarryd Roughead

There are a lot of SuperCoach fans who are calling for this one. In the pre-season we fell in love with Roughy as a defender and figured he was set for something special. Instead, he has plodded around in the forward line kicking six goals in three games without really showing too much to get excited about. A depleted Fremantle in Tasmania sounds like the perfect environment to find some groove again.

Jarryd Roughead snaps at goal. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

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Kangaroos' Majak moment

Winless North Melbourne confirm Majak Daw will make his long-awaited AFL debut against Brisbane Lions this weekend.

Majak Daw in action during the Kangaroos' NAB Cup win against Richmond. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

MAJAK Daw will become the first Sudanese footballer to play at AFL level when he makes his long-awaited debut on Sunday.

The 22-year-old was told the good news about his inclusion by coach Brad Scott following training today, after forward Robbie Tarrant failed to get through the session.

Daw spent three years on North Melbourne's rookie list before being elevated onto the senior list this season.

He has long been in contention for a spot within the senior team, but Scott wanted to make sure he was ready to play at a competitive level.

Daw, one of nine children, arrived in Australia in 2003 after living in Egypt for three years, having already fled Sudan during the civil war.

In an early interview, Daw said he wanted to be a trail-blazer for other Sudanese players.

"For someone of my background, I'd love to think that I could one day be a role model to the Sudanese community,'' Daw said.

"Some of the kids are probably in the same situation as I was a few years ago, just coming to a new country and not really knowing what to expect.

"Hopefully, seeing me play (in the AFL), it might mean something to them and make them want to play the game as well.''

North Melbourne ruckman Majak Daw provided the first highlight of the match with a strong mark backing into a pack. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Speaking before training this morning, Kangaroos coach Brad Scott said Daw still had areas of his game that he had to improve.

"He's playing really good footy in the VFL but he's not playing footy that is saying you have no choice but to pick me," Scott said.

"The hype is largely external, he knows exactly where he sits internally. Majak is focussing on the facts, he knows exactly what he has to do to force his way into our side but he hasn't quite done that but he's very very close.

"If something happens to a key position player, he's probably the next one in."

Scott said Daw was one of several players, including Daniel Currie, Aaron Black and former Hawthorn rookie Will Sierakowski, who were playing well enough at VFL level to earn a senior call-up.

"It's an unfortunate position to have four or five players that probably should come into our side, but there's not a role for them at the moment.

"They're certainly holding their end up in pushing for selection and if we have the slightest drop-off they'll come in and take someone's spot.

"We're 0-3 but we've got selection dilemmas so I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing."

Scott said the Roos would have to play at their best to beat Brisbane and its skipper Jonathan Brown, who returned to form with five goals last weekend.

"He's always in form against us," Scott said. "He's just a super player, isn't he?"

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Live: Round 4 AFL teams

Shaun Higgins is one of three confirmed outs for the Dogs. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

BIG outs for the Bombers, Dogs and Giants, a Hawthorn star ready to return and a little bit of Majak set to spice up North Melbourne's side.

The Round 4 teams are due at 6.20pm tonight, and you can see them first at Live HQ.

Just toggle between the matches to see every side as they're picked by the clubs and join our live chat from 5.30pm below.

Here's what we know so far....

- ESSENDON will make at least two changes and as many as four. Paddy Ryder (three weeks) and Nick Kommer (two) are out suspended, while Dustin Fletcher (groin) and Michael Hurley (wrist) are under injury clouds.

- HAWTHORN is expected to name Brian Lake for what would be his first appearance since crossing from the Western Bulldogs last year.

- THE Dogs are expected to unveil one, possibly two, of their prized draft picks. Jackson Macrae is a hot chance to debut against Adelaide, while No. 5 selection Jake Stringer is also in the mix. Captain Matthew Boyd is also expected to return for his first match this season.

- BUT the Dogs will lose Shaun Higgins, Easton Wood and Tory Dickson from the side that lost to Richmond.

- GEELONG is expected to welcome back James Kelly, but needs to find a replacement for Travis Varcoe.

- CARLTON must reshuffle its big-man department with Matthew Kreuzer cracking a thumb, and could bring back Jeremy Laidler as a surprise answer to its forward line.

- GOLD Coast captain Gary Ablett looks certain to play despite worries earlier this week over a swollen hand.

- HYPED North Melbourne ruckman Majak Daw will debut against the Brisbane Lions on Sunday.

- THE Giants have lost ruckman Dean Brogan, Devon Smith (both suspended) and Jon Patton (knee) ahead of their clash with the Dees.

Live HQ: See the teams as they're revealed

Need some SuperCoach advice or want to know more about the line-ups? Join our live chat from 5.30pm below

On a mobile device? Click here for a better viewing experience

ROUND 4 GAMES:

SYDNEY v GEELONG, 7.50pm Friday at the SCG

HAWTHORN v FREMANTLE, 1.45 pm Saturday at Aurora Stadium

RICHMOND v COLLIGNWOOD, 2.10pm Saturday at the MCG

ESSENDON v ST KILDA, 4.40pm Saturday at Etihad Stadium

WEST COAST v CARLTON, 7.40pm Saturday at Patersons Stadium

MELBOURNE v GWS, 1.10pm Sunday at the MCG

ADELAIDE v WESTERN BULLDOGS, 3.15pm Sunday at AAMI Stadium

NORTH MELBOURNE v BRISBANE LIONS, 4.40pm Sunday at Etihad Stadium

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Demetriou backs silent James Hird

AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou says James Hird is innocent until proven guilty. Picture: Tony Gough Source: Herald Sun

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou has refuted reports he called for James Hird to step aside from his position as coach of Essendon while the ASADA investigation continued.

Speaking at a sponsors lunch for the GWS Giants in Sydney today, Demetriou declared Hird is doing the right thing by not commenting about his conduct in the media.

"What I said was James Hird when he was going through his thought process I'm sure that (stepping aside from his coaching job) is one of the things he's considering, that's exactly what I said,'' Demetriou said.

"I didn't call for him to stand down at all.

"I don't think he should at all put it (his case) in the public forum, he's absolutely doing the most appropriate that he's responding to the investigation in accordance with the process of the investigation."

Demetriou also said Hird and the Essendon Football Club are entitled to be viewed as innocent until proven guilty.

"He's entitled to go through that process,'' Demetriou said.

"I don't get it when a media outlet says when they put 17 questions and he refuses to answer them why they think he should answer those questions from the media.

"They're not investigating him, he's being investigated by ASADA.

"He is entitled as an individual to the presumption of innocence, something we should all hold very sacred in this country.

The strain shows on James Hird emerges from a meeting at Windy Hill. Picture: Mike Keating Source: Herald Sun

While the Essendon coach may be suffering badly in the court of public opinion, the AFL CEO said it had no bearing on the ASADA investigation.

"I don't think the court of public opinion matters at all in this instance because it's a serious issue,'' Demetriou said.

"He's being investigated as part of the Essendon Football Club and he, like several other people and the players included, will be interviewed by ASADA and they may be interviewed again.

"But we have to let that process run it's course so we are all better informed.

"I am no more informed about the progress, I haven't even had a briefing about what happened in his interview the other day.

"ASADA are leading the investigation it'll take time I know people want it done expeditiously, but these things do take time."

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Pavlich sent under the knife

Matthew Pavlich has been ruled out for 4-6 weeks. Picture: Richard Polden Source: PerthNow

FREMANTLE skipper Matthew Pavlich has been ruled out for up to six weeks after requiring surgery on an achilles problem.

The 31-year-old had struggled through the first three rounds of the year, including a scoreless outing against Essendon last Friday night, following an interrupted pre-season.

The Dockers today revealed Pavlich would require surgery on his achilles after the injury flared up during the loss to the Bombers.

Fremantle coach Ross Lyon revealed Pavlich had tried to train this morning before the decision was made to go under the knife.

"He started the year really healthy and then got some general soreness through the achilles," Lyon said this afternoon.

"He was playing and playing reasonably well, and then on the weekend, he obviously struggled. So during that game it got worse.

"He attempted to train today and started okay, and then it got to a point where he wasn't comfortable with it and neither were we."

Pavlich has enjoyed a remarkable run with injury through his 14-year career, never missing more than three games in a season since his rookie campaign in 2000.

Fremantle's key forward stocks are likely to be tested by the setback, with rookie big man Tanner Smith a chance to make his debut against Hawthorn at Aurora Stadium on Saturday.

Smith and fellow Peel big man Jack Hannath both flew with the team this afternoon.

"It's not ideal, but it is what it is, and it's a wonderful opportunity for the rest of the team who are in really good shape and playing pretty good footy," Lyon said of Pavlich's absence.

"It's a great opportunity for us to prove we can compete and play really good football without Matthew, which I'm really confident about."

Key defender Luke McPharlin also made the trip east after recovering from concussion in last Friday night's game.

More to come

Follow Chris Robinson on Twitter: @CJKRobinson

Pavlich's form drop has resulted in the star dropping $60,000 in SuperCoach and averaging just 71 points. He is owned by more than 30,000 teams.

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It's not about win-loss: Mick

Carlton coach Mick Malthouse has defended the Blues' poor start to the season, claiming success isn't about winning or losing.

Robert Warnock could play his first game for the season against West Coast on Saturday night. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

Carlton coach Mick Malthouse patrols the boundary line. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

CARLTON coach Mick Malthouse is considering recalling both Levi Casboult and Rob Warnock for Saturday's crunch game against West Coast.

The Blues lost ruckman Matthew Kreuzer to a broken thumb, which only compounded their 0-3 start to the season.

Warnock's 2012 season was ruined by a shoulder injury. He hasn't played since Round 14.

"It's either going to be Levi Casboult, or both, and Robbie Warnock,'' Malthouse said today.

"We understand we're a little bit short in terms of talls in our side…We might go a little bit taller.

"We could play both.''

Shaun Hampson is already in the side and Malthouse said he wasn't against playing Sam Rowe in the ruck, but admitted he would need support.

"You're talking about the No. 1 ruckman in the league, (Dean) Cox has been that for a number of years,'' he said.

"We know that we're going to have a big job and perhaps the best way to do that is multi-choice and multi-go. It's very hard to lock one player in on a bloke like Cox."

Jarrad Waite and Eddie Betts are not expected to play this weekend.

Malthouse refused to dwell on the club's poor start to the season.

"It's not about win-loss, it's about process," he said.

"Are we playing good football? Yes, we are in patches.

"Are we playing well enough to beat our opponents? No, because we're not doing that for a full game.

"That's what we have to look at, not (just) the result of the football game."

Malthouse said he couldn't change the results of the first three weeks of the season.

"I will not be panicked, I will not be pressured by media nor supporters suggesting we change the zip and three, and go to the league and say it's not fair.

"We will keep going and we will turn this side from a zip and three side and we will keep going on the process, and that will turn it around for us."

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Beams out for another month

Collingwood onballer Dayne Beams is out for another month. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: The Advertiser

COLLINGWOOD best and fairest winner Dayne Beams has reinjured his thigh and the midfielder is at least another month away from playing again.

Beams' setback has cast a pall over the Magpies' preparations for the blockbuster against unbeaten Richmond at the MCG on Saturday.

The classy midfielder felt pain in his thigh when he tried to step up training last weekend and he has been ordered to rest.

Bucks: History irrelevant against the Tiges

Picture gallery: Dane Swan warms up for game 200

"The last thing you want to do when you walk into a medical meeting is to hear one of your better players is probably another three or four weeks (out) longer than you anticipated,'' coach Nathan Buckley said today.

"Beamsy is incredibly frustrated by it and our medics are working hard to get him up to speed. At the same time, it's no use pushing a player up if he's 85 percent fit. The intensity of the game requires full fitness and we won't be putting any of our players in that danger zone by pushing them up before they're ready.

"It's a bit of a rebleed which just signals to us that it (injury) was more significant than we initially thought and we've just got to give it a little more time.''
 

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Cats set to regain Kelly

Shane Crawford's left-field ruck plan plus why making Gary Ablett captain is a bad idea this week

Geelong midfielder James Kelly clears out of defence. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

VETERAN Geelong midfielder James Kelly is the man most likely to replace injured speedster Travis Varcoe.

The hard-bodied midfielder missed last week's match against Carlton with a calf injury after copping a knock to his Achilles tendon during his first match of the season against North Melbourne in Round 2.

Varcoe had surgery on his injured shoulder today and coach Chris Scott said the club would not take any risks with their injured star.

"He is really unfortunate he is in this position. He is going to miss three months," Scott said.

"The fortunate part is he is back running after five or six weeks, so he is going to be in pretty good condition when he is available to be involved in contact training and matches.

"Part of that is that he's back running after five or six weeks, so he's going to be in pretty good condition when he is available to be involved in contact training and matches.

"We'd love to have him in the meantime, but unfortunately we won't and that gives an opportunity to one of our young players this week.

"It's bad news for Trav but it's not the end of the world.''

Scott also said young big man Mark Blicavs could be rested against the Swans after playing the first three matches of the season.

George Horlin-Smith and Mitch Brown are also a chance to play against Sydney, Scott said.

Jared Rivers is also an outside to play after recovering well from a knee injury he picked up against Hawthorn in Round 1.

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Goddard defection still raw

Essendon coach James Hird talks with gun recruit Brendon Goddard. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

THE Saints say Brendon Goddard will just be another Essendon player on Saturday, but the bitterness over his departure isn't far below the surface.

Goddard quit the Saints at the end of last year to join Essendon as a free agent.

Asked if the two-time All-Australian was a big loss, St Kilda coach Scott Watters said: "That's up for conjecture.

"In Brendon's words, his last 40 games were mediocre and middle of the road."

For his part, Goddard has referred to his former coach a "hobbit" and a "dwarf", albiet tongue in cheek.

St Kilda defender Jarryn Geary said today the players would be treating all players in Essendon jumpers the same when the two teams meet for the first time since Goddard's departure on Saturday at Etihad Stadium.

"We'll be playing the jumper. You don't see too many faces out there any other time," he told the AFL website.

"He played here for a long time but this week we'll just be focusing on trying to beat Essendon and all that other stuff will take care of itself."

Essendon recruit Brendon Goddard has been quick to temper fans' expectations in an interview on the club's website, claiming development will come from the younger brigade. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

Goddard attended Nick Riewoldt's wedding in Texas in October and the Saints skipper says they will be "mates for life".

But off the field the wounds are still raw.

Club president Greg Westaway reopened them in a recent interview, when he put the issue of Goddard's money demands firmly on the table.

"He was a required player," Westaway told Fairfax media.

"But for four years, we wanted only three. That means we would be paying 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."

Goddard angrily rejected the claims on The Footy Show.

"That is totally fabricated and untrue," he said.

"So for Greg Westaway to come out and say that - a complete bunch of lies - is somewhat hurtful.

"Pretty much he's suggesting that I held the club to ransom for those figures and whatever and on those terms, well it's pretty hurtful."

Saints fans are sure to let their feelings be known in the stands, and while Goddard's former teammates might not hold a grudge, they won't have forgotten that Goddard could let his anger get the better off him on the field.

Don't be surprised if Clinton Jones goes straight to the Bombers' No.9 in an attempt to get under his skin.

Brendon Goddard wrestles with Leigh Adams off the ball. Picture: Michael Dodge Source: HWT Image Library

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Tigers keen to test their best

Tigers defender Dylan Grimes is looking forward tot aking on Collingwood. Picture: Getty Source: Herald Sun

RICHMOND will be looking to put its game plan to the test in Saturday's blockbuster against Collingwood at the MCG.

Defender Dylan Grimes said the match expected to attract more than 80,000 people was a "huge opportunity" for the undefeated Tigers.

"It's a really good test for us as a club to go up against what is one of the best teams in the competition and really test our structures against theirs ... it's a huge opportunity to see where we're at," the 21-year-old said.

"The heat's on us; Collingwood will want to come out and make a big statement so the challenge for us is to be consistent and put in another good performance."

Grimes credited the Tigers resurgence to improved depth, especially in the back line following the off-season arrivals Troy Chaplin and Ricky Petterd.

"The good thing is in previous years if we had a player go down, it might have been more of a issue on field," Grimes, who has battled persistent hamstring problems throughout his career, said.

Grimes missed a chunk of the pre-season following surgery to repair a small tear in his left hamstring tendon.

"With such depth this year, there were guys who were able to come in and fill my spot quite easily and it allowed me to just focus on myself and my rehab to get myself right for this year. It was really positive."

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Hird fronts drugs investigators

Mark Thompson has spoken of the strain James Hird is under as the Essendon coach faces an ASADA investigation.

Essendon coach James Hird could be banned by the AFL if found guilty using a banned substance. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

ESSENDON coach James Hird has reaffirmed his determination to clear his name ahead of interviews with drugs investigators today.

Hird left his Toorak home this morning, dressed in a suit and Bombers tie, saying he was looking forward to meeting Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) officers.

"I'm just looking forward to having my say," he said.

Asked if he was confident he could clear his name, Hird said: "Yes mate."

Hird will not be under oath when he faces drugs investigators for the first time today.

But he nevertheless would face tough penalties if found not to have told the truth.

ASADA officers are probing claims that players received banned intravenous injections - one of several concerns raised about the club's sports science regimen last year.

Sports scientist Stephen Dank has said that during his time at Essendon he injected Hird with the performance-enhancing drug Hexarelin, which is banned for players.

The AFL Anti-Doping Code demands players and coaches must:

FULLY co-operate with any investigation.

FULLY and truthfully answer all questions.

PROVIDE documents if requested.

New doubt over Dank's credentials

The questions Hird must answer today

Bomber fans plan show of support

Players and coaches who fail to do this face a minimum $10,000 fine. If a breach of this section is referred to the AFL Tribunal by the league, there is no limit on the sanction that can be applied.

The code prohibits coaches from supplying and administering performance-enhancing drugs, but not from taking them.

The AFL can sanction anyone it believes has brought the game into disrepute.

Evidence gathered by ASADA would ultimately come before the AFL Tribunal if the agency found players or officials had a case to answer.

Former ASADA chief Richard Ings said: "In the infraction notice (from the AFL), it will say ASADA has told the AFL that you have a case to answer for breaching these provisions of the anti-doping rules; the penalty for this breach is a ban, or whatever -- two years, say; you have an opportunity now to either accept the ban, or to request a hearing before the AFL anti-doping panel.

"The hearing, the tribunal, is held by the AFL.

"ASADA would be the counsel prosecuting the case, because they've got the evidence, and the player and his attorney would be the defence."

Hird is expected to be accompanied by a lawyer, or lawyers, today.

Under common ASADA practices:

THE interview would be conducted by two ASADA officials.

AN investigator from the AFL's integrity office could attend and ask questions.

THE interview would be recorded.

Hird is not bound by privacy laws and can share anything from the interview.

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Ablett must get through training

Gary Ablett could miss Saturday night's clash against Port Adelaide. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

GARY Ablett can't clench his fist but expects to play against Port Adelaide on Saturday night.

Ablett hurt his hand in the Suns' two-point loss to Brisbane last Saturday night.

X-rays cleared the skipper of any broken bones in his right hand but he was last night sent for MRI scans to see what is causing the pain and swelling.

Ablett said today he didn't know when he suffered the injury, but he was unable to shake his opponent's hand after the match.

"It was a little awkward because I went up to shake their (Lions') hands and they were going in with the right hand and I was going with the left and I had to explain to a few of them that I hurt my hand during the game," he said.

"It's good now.

"I've got to get through training Wednesday night but the hand's not feeling too bad. I can't really clench it yet but I'm sure it'll be fine for the weekend.

"I remember running out of a pack (against the Lions) and the hand felt a bit sore and I wasn't sure if someone stood on it or it was a knock.''

Ablett is set to line up against the man he considers a "second father'' - former assistant coach at both Geelong and Gold Coast, Hinkley.

In his first head coaching role, Hinkley has guided Port to an impressive 3-0 season start - but isn't getting ahead of himself judging by a cheeky text to Ablett.

"I got a text from Ken this morning asking who I'd like for him to play on me,'' Ablett smiled.

"And the end of the text said something like 'please take it easy on us'.

"I always knew he was going to be a great coach so it's a great challenge for us and hopefully we can have our second win and give them their first loss.''

Ablett admitted being relegated to a 1-3 record after this weekend would be a blow after the Gold Coast had been handed a favourable early-season draw.

"We know we've got a great opportunity this week. We can make it 2-2 and set our season up,'' he said.

Meanwhile, Ablett was on Tuesday announced as the new AFL Queensland ambassador for community football.

In other news, key forward Charlie Dixon has an Achilles injury and is considered less likely to be cleared to play.

And defender Matt Maguire's ongoing absence is a major headache for Brisbane who must find opponents for Drew Petrie, Lachie Hansen and Robbie Tarrant.

It was hoped he would only miss the one game but he has now sat out two weeks and football manager Dean Warren said he may not be available until Rd 6 against Sydney.

"He is probably a couple of weeks away at least,'' Warren said.

"Because he has had a fair few issues there during his career, it is just going to take a little bit longer.''

The Lions have a swag of in form players from Sunday's 110 point NEAFL hiding of the Gold Coast's reserves jostling to take on the Kangaroos at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

There will be one forced change with Jared Polec set to miss with an ankle injury.

Warren said the axe was not hovering over veteran Ash McGrath after a slow start to the season but admitted any underperforming players would feel the heat.

"There is pressure on for senior spots,'' he said.

"We have depth, there is a group of guys in the seconds that are playing good consistent footy and pushing for a game.''

One player who is safe as houses is debutant Sam Mayes.

The South Australian product looked right at home at the elite level collecting 21 disposals off a wing while adding two clearances and five inside 50s. He also took 10 marks - all uncontested - to showcase his lauded hard-running ability.

The No.8 draft pick's penetrating right boot also caught the eye in the wet conditions.

"My job was to spread hard and find some space. I was pleased with how I went and hopefully I can keep improving,'' he said.

"It will be a test next week against North Melbourne to back-up from this week and crack in again.''

- with AAP

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Brogan faces tribunal

Dean Brogan is heading straight to the tribunal. Source: The Daily Telegraph

GIANTS veteran Dean Brogan is at AFL House to defend himself on a rough conduct charge against St Kilda's Jack Newnes.

Brogan will give evidence at the hearing but the tribunal will hear a statement from Newnes, who is still in hospital.

Behind-the-goals footage of the incident will be shown and a trainer will give evidence.

Brogan, 34, clashed with Newnes late in the first quarter before the young Saint was substituted out of Saturday's win at Manuka Oval.

Newnes sustained a broken jaw from the incident, which occurred as the 20-year-old was heading towards the interchange bench.

The former Power premiership ruckman could not accept an early guilty plea, with the AFL bypassing the match review panel for the case.

The last player to be sent directly to the tribunal for Chris Judd, for his infamous "chicken-wing" tackle on Kangaroo Leigh Adams last year.

Judd was slugged a four-match suspension.

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If you don't mind, umpire

Luke Hodge slides in to Harry O'Brien's legs and umpires award the Hawks skipper a free kick, and report O'Brien.

Harry O'Brien was reported for this collision with Luke Hodge. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

WE PICK the five biggest umpiring eyebrow-raisers of the weekend.

Umpiring is a tough job - getting tougher every year with more rule tweaks and interpretation changes - and most of the time the men in white/green/red do a great job. Sometimes, however, we need to examine some issues closer to get a clear explanation and help everyone's understanding of the game.

Each week we'll nominate five decisions that demand a second look. Then we'll take on board your views and any nominations we've missed, and get a verdict from AFL House.

Have your say on these decisions and let us know any we missed by leaving a comment below or sending a note on Twitter or Facebook

1. WHAT SLIDING RULE?

WHEN a player deserving of a free kick instead concedes one and has his name go in the book it's sure to spark confusion.

And that's exactly what happened when Hawks skipper Luke Hodge slid into Harry O'Brien's legs yesterday. Instead of Hodge being pinged under the controversial new sliding rule, he was instead gifted a free kick.

O'Brien went low, Hodge slid in head first and got to the ball a fraction of a second before his opponent. Hodge's head crashed in to O'Brien's shin and O'Brien went flying. Twitter then went into meltdown as players, commentators and fans immediately slammed the decision, while O'Brien will today find out if he has a rough conduct case to fight.

Hodge's teammate Jordan Lewis sided with O'Brien today, saying he was baffled by the report.

See the video of the incident in the video player above and make up your own mind

Collingwood v Hawthorn, MCG, Harry O, Brien colides with Luke Hodge, Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source:

2. DUSTY ROBBED OF LONG GOAL

GOALS were hard to come by for the Tigers early yesterday, with the dominant side converting just four of 13 chances in the first term.

So that made the decision to deny Dusty Martin a bomb from even more frustrating at the time. The star midfielder ran to 60m and unloaded a beauty, watching it sail through before celebrating. But the umpire had different ideas, instead handing the ball to Dog Liam Picken at full-back.

He pinged Tiger Luke McGuane for an illegal shepherd in the goal square, despite replays showing it seemed to be a perfectly legal bump with the ball in close proximity. To add further sting, the Dogs went coast-to-coast to spot Liam Jones who booted his second, keeping the Bulldogs in touch.

Dusty finished with a whopping 150 SuperCoach points - and probably should have had about another 10 but for that call.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 14: Dustin Martin of the Tigers celebrates a goal during the round three AFL match between the Richmond Tigers and the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on April 14, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images) Source:

3. COTCH YOU... OR MAYBE NOT

UMPIRE knockers who believe superstars always get a bit of extra leniency had their argument enhanced went Trent Cotchin was allowed to be gang-tackled, spun 360 degrees and drop the ball without being penalised.

A swarm of Bulldog players grabbed the Tiger, dumping him to the ground only to have their holding the ball cries ignored.

The ball spilled free nearing the Tigers goalmouth and Shane Edwards swooped and snapped a goal, giving Richmond the perfect start to the second half. SuperFooty ran a quick Twitter poll with 100 per cent of readers declaring Cotch had got away with one, with some calling him a "protected species".

Trent Cotchin gets a quick kick. AFL Round 3: Richmond v Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium, Docklands. Tim Carrafa Source: Herald Sun

4. THE ACCIDENTAL DELIBERATE

THERE'S 11 minutes on the clock, it's the last quarter and scores are level, it's a wet and slippery night at hostile Patersons Stadium, the ball comes to a second-gamer at half-back with Dockers swarming at you from all directions.

What do you do? Throw the ball on your boot and get it the hell out of there, right? Wrong.

Elliott Kavanagh did just that on Friday night and was somehow nabbed for deliberate out of bounds. The ball skidded past Brent Stanton and into no-man's land before trickling over the boundary line.

Despite the match being a stoppage-fest, the umpire pinged Kav for deliberate, setting up another Freo counter-attack. He was stiff.

5. ANGRY WITH UMPS? JOIN THE Q

New Magpie Quinten Lynch couldn't believe it when he was pinged twice in five minutes for ruck infringements that can only be labelled soft.

The Pies were pressing just before three-quarter time when Jarryd Roughead received minimal contact from the Q-stick and won a free kick on the 50m line. He went back and drilled the goal to give the Hawks some breathing space.

Then five minutes into the final term Lynch threw his head back and his hands in the air when he was penalised again from a boundary throw-in for more incidental contact.

Collingwood's Quinten Lynch argues with an umpire. Source: Getty Images

... MEANWHILE RYDER, KOMMER SWEAT ON BUMPS

IT'S now in the hands of the match review panel, rather than the umpires, but Paddy Ryder and Nick Kommer must both be sweating.

Ryder KO'd Docker Luke McPharlin in the first quarter of Friday night's battle and looks certain to be charged. As Brownlow Medallist Mark Riccuito put it: "He's got him high, he ran past the ball and he left the ground." He's in trouble.

Kommer brushed into Kepler Bradley's head, sending the Docker off the field with blood gushing from his face.

See the video below and you decide the Bombers' fate:

Two Essendon players face nervous waits from the AFL match review panel after seperate bumps in Friday night's clach against Fremantle

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Bomber fans rally for Hird

Essendon coach James Hird could be banned by the AFL if found guilty using a banned substance. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

ESSENDON fans will harness people power at Etihad Stadium on Saturday to support besieged coach James Hird.

The fans behind the BomberBlitz website are trying to start a viral campaign to back their coach and club great.

They aim to make Saturday's match against Etihad Stadium a sea of "Stand by Hird" signs.

ASADA officials will interview Hird tomorrow over the drugs scandal that could see him banned from football.

They will likely be joined by the AFL's own integrity department and will question his knowledge of the intravenous injections which are banned under the AFL's drug code.

The Essendon champion says he will fight to clear his name over allegations he was deeply involved in the club's supplements program and was himself injected with substances banned for players.

Bolt: Pack driven by Hird instinct

Bulldogs boss: Ban supplement programs

The fans aim to spread the word via social media to bypass what they see as an anti-Hird mainstream media.

"In the face of oppression it's time to stand together and support the coaches and players who have done so much for us," the site proclaims.

Source: HWT Image Library

"Directly under the spot light is our coach and leader James Hird. Who has been unfairly tried by the media and abandoned by the league without the presumption of innocence or proof of wrong doing.

"Show your #standbyhird poster with pride. Get it on camera. Post it on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and whereever else you can.

"Call the paper. Call the radio stations. Let them know you won't support a narrative of presupposed guilt and disrespect towards champions of our game."

The site includes a poster fans can print and take to Saturday's game.

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Ryder, Kommer cop weeks

Two Essendon players face nervous waits from the AFL match review panel after seperate bumps in Friday night's clach against Fremantle

Paddy Ryder could be rubbed out. Picture: Daniel Wilkins

ESSENDON star Paddy Ryder and youngster Nick Kommer are both set to miss the Anzac Day blockbuster against Collingwood after copping a combined five weeks from the match review panel.

Ryder can accept three matches for his crude bump on Dockers defender Luke McPharlin, while Kommer can take two after colliding with Kepler Bradley's head.

VIDEO: See the incidents in the video player above

Ryder's hit knocked out McPharlin, who was immediately substituted out of Friday night's clash, with Brownlow medallist Mark Riccuito immediately forecasting the ruckman  would land in trouble.

AFL ROUND 3 - Fremantle Dockers vs Essendon Bombers at Patersons Stadium, Perth. PICTURED- Fremantle's Luke McPharlin in the hands of the trainers after a heavy bump from Bomber Patrick Ryder. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source:

"He hit him in the jaw, went past the ball and got off the ground as well," he told Fox Footy.
Ryder's case drew 425 demerit points but the big man can escape with a three-game penalty with an early guilty plea.

Medical update: The Barometer reviews every club

Kommer brushed past Kepler Bradley, collecting the Docker in the head and sending him off under the blood rule.

But while that offence initially drew a level three offence, Kommer was cleared of tripping Docker Tendai Mzungu.

In better news, the Dons today confirmed star forward Michael Hurley had been cleared of serious wrist damage.

Hurley finished the win against Fremantle nursing his wrist but is expected to line up against St Kilda on Saturday.

"He has had some scans and they have ruled out any broken bone which is great news as we thought there might have been some issues with his wrist," Dons football operations manager Steve Alessio told the club's website.

"He will train during the week, test out the wrist which is still a bit sore from the fall and hopefully he comes up ready and raring to go for the St. Kilda game this weekend."

Magpies defender Harry O'Brien had his match day report thrown out, with the AFL admitting he should have received a free kick under the controversial new sliding rule. See the incident here

Giant Devon Smith can accept a one-match ban for rough conduct against Jarryn Geary.

Adelaide's Bernie Vince had his match-day report for charging rising Power star Chad Wingard withdrawn.
 

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The Barometer: Round 4

Luke Hodge slides in to Harry O'Brien's legs and umpires award the Hawks skipper a free kick, and report O'Brien.

GWS's No. 1 draft pick Jonathon Patton has sustained yet another knee injury.

Two Essendon players face nervous waits from the AFL match review panel after seperate bumps in Friday night's clach against Fremantle

Hawthorn defender Brian Lake is ready to return. Picture: Stephen Harman Source: Herald Sun

WHO'S hurt and who is in line for selection at your club?

ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Nathan van Berlo (knee) test
Sam Shaw (hamstring) 8 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Luke Brown had a Showdown he'd rather forget chasing Port Adelaide young gun Chad Wingard (three goals in the last quarter). His efforts in Round 1 and 2 should hold him in good stead. Graham Johncock could be in strife after failing to fire in his return to the side. The veteran goalsneak kicked 1.2 and two of his five disposals were clangers. Brodie Smith (collarbone) and Nathan van Berlo must prove their fitness during the week.

ON THE CUSP: Ian Callinan did his chances of a recall no harm picking up 19 disposals including five clearances and a goal in the SANFL. Jared Lyons had the ball on a string while Tom Lynch clunked 12 marks to go with 29 disposals.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: A week is a very long time in footy. Just imagine what a year must feel like. Adelaide coach Brenton Sanderson could do no wrong 12 months ago. Yesterday, the Crows recorded their second loss in three matches, blowing a six-goal lead against rival Port Adelaide. The Crows lost the midfield battle, trailing a young and hungry Port side in clearances and hitouts. The Crows need Patrick Dangerfield, who went missing in the second half, and Jacobs to lift to get their season back on track. But expect the Crows to bounce back against the Dogs.

BRISBANE

INJURIES
Simon Black (knee) 1 week
Brent Staker (foot) 1 week
Jesse O'Brien (adductor) 5 weeks
Stephen Wrigley (knee) season
Jared Polec (knee) TBA

ON THE BLOCK: Jared Polec twisted his knee in a marking contest and could be in trouble. Stefan Martin was subbed off after kicking a goal. If fit, he plays. Elliot Yeo (13 disposals, four clangers, 54 per cent efficiency) and substitute James Polkinghorne (eight touches at 50 per cent) didn't set the world alight.

ON THE CUSP: Sam Docherty and Marco Paparone put in strong performances for the Lions reserves. Docherty, a rebounding defender with silky skills, was named best afield while key post Paparone bagged three goals. Tried forwards Aaron Cornelius and Jordan Lisle also figured in the goals.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: It wasn't pretty against Gold Coast, but a win's a win. Jonathan Brown was the difference, piling on five goals in the QClash. Brown will again be critical if the Lions are to beat North Melbourne on Sunday. And, his record speaks for itself. Brown has kicked more goals (52) against North than any other team except Carlton (54). Daniel Rich enjoyed more freedom after copping tags while Pearce Hanley is proving a revelation off half-back.

CARLTON

INJURIES
Eddie Betts (jaw) 1 week
Andrew McInnes (knee) 9-10 weeks
Jarrad Waite (calf) test
Matthew Kreuzer (finger) 6-8 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Kreuzer is a huge loss for the 0-3 Blues with scans confirming a fracture in the star ruckman's thumb. Substitute Dylan Buckley struggled to make an impact after kicking a goal with his first kick in league footy within 15 seconds of shedding the sub's vest in the second quarter.

ON THE CUSP: Rob Warnock looks a walk-up start for Kreuzer's spot after dominating the stoppages with 51 hitouts in the Northern Blues' demolition of Bendigo. Warnock also collected 20 disposals and kicked a goal in the 164-point hammering. Jeremy Laidler (three goals) starred as a lead-up forward while Ed Curnow (27 possessions) and David Ellard (20 disposals, three goals) got plenty of the ball. Simon White and Nick Duigan were solid on a quiet afternoon for defenders. Meanwhile, Andrew Collins collected 17 possessions in his first hitout from a six week injury layoff.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: The Blues aren't playing as bad as their 0-3 record suggests. Chris Judd is enjoying his football again, while Andrew Walker has been a revelation off half back. Bryce Gibbs is starting to live up to all the expectation and Chris Yarran poses a threat every time he goes near it. But fadeouts are costing the Blues. On Saturday night the Blues were outscored nine goals to two between the 14-minute mark of the second quarter and 19 minutes into the third. It was a similar story against the Magpies, with the Blues outscored seven goals to three in the last quarter. The next month is critical starting Saturday against West Coast (Patterson's Stadium) followed by winnable games against Adelaide (MCG), Melbourne (MCG) and St Kilda (Etihad).

COLLINGWOOD

INJURIES
Dayne Beams (quad) test
Luke Ball (knee) test
Darren Jolly (ribs) 2 weeks
Clinton Young (hamstring) 3 weeks
Brodie Grundy (back) 3-5 weeks
Lachlan Keefe (knee) 4-6 weeks
Michael Hartley (shoulder) 5 weeks
Nick Maxwell (wrist) 6-7 weeks
Tim Broomhead (glandular fever) 8 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: An interesting week for the Pies after they were torn apart in the second half by Hawthorn. Ben Sinclair and was disappointing, Tyson Goldsack was quiet while several of their stars – led by Heath Shaw and Steele Sidebottom – let them down. They're obviously safe, making it hard to predict what changes Nathan Buckley will swing this week. Harry O'Brien will surely be safe after strangely being reported from this controversial incident.

ON THE CUSP: Several Pies are pressing. Paul Seedsman was terrific in the VFL, while Alan Didak played again and kicked a goal. Dayne Beams and Luke Ball aren't far away, while Jarrod Witts impressed but looks a long-shot to overtake Ben Hudson after the veteran's dazzling Pies debut yesterday.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: A Huge fortnight with the Pies to battle the two sashes – first the yellow then the red on Anzac Day – after their trouncing yesterday. In the next two weeks they should regain Beams and Ball with Andrew Krakouer, Ben Kennedy and Alan Didak keeping the pressure on the small forwards.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: Travis Cloke was back to his best kicking five and scoring 133. He's still just $456,000 after his horror 2012 but that's set to rocket upwards with a break-even of just 44 this week.

Collingwood defender Harry O'Brien was reported for this hit on Luke Hodge. Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: Herald Sun

LIVE HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats and more from every Round 3 match

ESSENDON

INJURIES
Michael Hurley (wrist) test

ON THE BLOCK: No block at Bomberland with the Dons retaining top place after another euphoric victory. But there could be forced outs with Paddy Ryder (three weeks) and Nick Kommer (two weeks) offered suspensions from the match review panel over these incidents. Michael Hurley finished the match clutching his wrist in pain and will be monitored this week but should be right, as is Dustin Fletcher who was subbed off with a slight groin strain. The only possible unforced omissions could be youngster Elliott Kavanagh, who was quiet, and Alwyn Davey, who was held goalless, but even they would be stiff.

ON THE CUSP: Everyone. If Hurley doesn't come up, lock in Scott Gumbleton or prodigy Joe Daniher. If Fletcher isn't right, Tayte Pears is ready to go. Should the Dons swing any other changes? Leroy Jetta is at the front of the pack after another 28 touches in the VFL. David Hille is likely to replace Ryder, while Jetta could snare Kommer's place.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: The Dons' injury list remains miniscule, they remain top of the table and, at least from an on-field perspective, things could not be rosier. A blossoming list, a wealth of young stars pressing for selection and another well-rounded team performance under James Hird. Should the Dons can cast aside the Saints on Saturday as most expect, all eyes will immediately turn to Anzac Day. Huge.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: David Zahrakis dropped $33,000 after starting in the green vest in Round 1 and wearing the red one in Round 2. He looks unders at $440,000 but if you want him act quickly as his Round 4 break-even is only 70.

FREMANTLE

INJURIES
Luke McPharlin (concussion) test
Zac Clarke (achilles) 1-2 weeks
Anthony Morabito (knee) indefinite
Aaron Sandilands (hamstring) 6-8 weeks
Jesse Crichton (quad) 2-3 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Nick Suban (10 disposals at 50 per cent efficiency) was quiet after a strong start to the season. The Dockers will be hoping Luke McPharlin comes up after being subbed out with concussion Friday night.

ON THE CUSP: Youngster Hayden Crozier was solid in the WAFL with 18 disposals and seven marks. Lachie Neale amassed 27 possessions while Josh Mellington (23 touches, four inside-50s) looks ready to go after snapping his hamstring last year.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: The Dockers would have pencilled in Essendon as a win. Pity they didn't tell an inspired Bombers outfit about their plans. Now the Dockers must be at their "anyone, anywhere, any time" best if they're to upset the Hawks at their Tasmanian fortress. Nat Fyfe's form is a huge positive while Michael Walters is becoming increasingly dangerous around goal and Ross Lyon says he wants to give him a run in the midfield. Big game, but the Hawks should have a bit in hand.

GALLERY: The best 40 pictures from Round 3

GEELONG

INJURIES
James Kelly (calf) test
Jared Rivers (knee) 3 weeks
Travis Varcoe (shoulder) 12-14 weeks
Josh Cowan (Achilles) indefinite
Hamish McIntosh (knee) indefinite
George Burbury (foot) indefinite
Jed Bews (foot) indefinite
Dawson Simpson (back) Indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Travis Varcoe surely comes out and is expected to be booked in for surgery, sidelining the Cats 'star for up to three months. Jordan Murdoch was quiet and could slip out, but other than that it's happy days at the Cats who saluted again.

ON THE CUSP: He won't be rushed and certainly won't play on Friday night, but Daniel Menzel is back. The unlucky goalkicker got through his VFL return – after his third knee reconstruction – yesterday, picking up eight touches and booting a ripping goal from the boundary. Josh Hunt and Cam Guthrie also returned through the VFL, while Jordan Schroder and George Horlin-Smith were the best. But, with a five-day turnaround from the VFL to Round 4, Chris Scott will be wary of making too many changes.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: The Cats' perfect start continued, but they're still not thrilled with how they're playing. Scott and Jimmy Bartel have called for more consistent performances, and the Swans on Friday night looms as a good acid test. It's Geelong's fourth six-day break, but Scott has already shot that down as irrelevant saying there will be no excuses. Expect a couple of changes to keep the side fresh and to cover Varcoe, while James Kelly has already said he expects to return.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: Joel Selwood fell victim to Andrew Carrazzo on Saturday, chalking up just 74. The upside? If you don't have him he should drop to around $600k next week, with a break-even of 131.

Daniel Menzel celebrates a goal during his VFL comeback. Picture: Glenn Ferguson Source: Geelong Advertiser

GOLD COAST

INJURIES
Charlie Dixon (ankle) test
Liam Patrick (hamstring) 1 week
Seb Tape (knee) 1 week
Jesse Lonergan (wrist) 2 weeks
Campbell Brown (suspension) 3 weeks
Nathan Bock (leg) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Charlie Dixon was subbed off with an ankle scare, with coach Guy McKenna revealing he could miss a week. Jackson Allen was quiet on debut and fudged a moment in the last quarter where he could have touched a Tom Rockliff goal. Luke Russell had just seven touches after starting as the sub, but overall don't expect much change from what was a pretty good effort against the Lions.

ON THE CUSP: If Dixon doesn't come up, Dan Gorringe looks likely to replace him after two goals in the NEAFL. Tom Lynch booted three and is available to provide a target up forward if needed, while superboot Trent McKenzie put in a strong effort in the reserves to stay in the mix.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: The Suns' friendly stretch to start the season continues with duels against Port Adelaide (home), GWS, Freo (home) and the Demons to come. With Lonergan, Brown, Tape and Patrick all set to return in that timeframe at least two more wins must be on Guy McKenna's mind.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: If you baulked on picking Gazza, it could prove the right move despite his phenomenal first-up performance. He's already dropped $22k and has a break-even of 192 this week. That means you could pick him up sub-$700k by Round 5 or 6.

Gold Coast captain Gary Ablett finds space against Brisbane. Picture: Darren England Source: The Courier-Mail

GWS

INJURIES
Taylor Adams (hip) TBC
Rhys Palmer (calf) TBC
Matthew Buntine (lung) 3 weeks
Dom Tyson (knee) 5 weeks
Chad Cornes (shoulder) Indefinite
Jon Patton (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: Tragically, Jon Patton will come out and miss the rest of the season after rupturing his ACL in this incident. Lachie Plowman was quiet in defence, while Liam Sumner tracked at just 56 per cent efficiency in the loss to the Saints. Sam Reid started as the sub and remains on the fringe. Devon Smith has been offered a one-match suspension.

ON THE CUSP: Patton's blow could revive the career of forgotten tall Setanta O'hAilpin. The ex-Blue booted five goals in the NEAFL, while livewire Anthony Miles was good – again – and is desperately close to a recall. High draft picks Adam Tomlinson and Kristian Jaksch are also edging towards the senior side.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: Kevin Sheedy doesn't want to talk about Melbourne, but he knows a win against the Dees on Sunday could spell the end for counterpart Mark Neeld. That would be ironic given how publicly dirty Sheeds was at how Melbourne treated him when he applied for the gig Dean Bailey landed. The Giants could swing a few changes for the MCG clash with their reserves performing admirably and a thinning injury list.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: For the 37,000 SuperCoach with Patton, it's time to sell. Look at Tiger Ricky Petterd, who will shoot up in value next week. At least Patton made you $10,000 before going bust.

GWS forward Jonathon Patton screams in pain after twisting his knee during the second quarter. Picture: Kym Smith Source: The Daily Telegraph

HAWTHORN

INJURIES
Brad Sewell (hamstring) test
Derek Wanganeen (hamstring) 1 week
Xavier Ellis (calf) 2 weeks
Brendan Whitecross (knee) 6 weeks
Matthew Suckling (knee) indefinite
Alex Woodward (knee) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: After two barnstorming wins, they're a happy – and settled – team at Hawthorn. Expect little change for the Fremantle clash, with perhaps only a kid such as Taylor Duryea squeezed out this week

ON THE CUSP: Brian Lake. Yep, the two-time All-Australian is surely heading Matthew Pavlich's way after an impressive VFL outing against the Bombers. Expect Brad Sewell to miss again, with the Hawks tipped to take a cautious approach to their hard nut.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: Don't be surprised if the Hawks play all three talls – Lake, Ryan Schoenmakers and Josh Gibson – against the Dockers in a mix that could work this year. Lake to Pavlich, Schoenmakers to Bradley and Gibson to Mayne as well as playing loose could work nicely. The challenges continue with the Dockers, Roos and Crows away to come, but given their scintillating form expect the flag favourites to start all three at a short price.

MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Jordie McKenzie (calf) TBC
Jack Fitzpatrick (concussion) test
Lynden Dunn (hamstring tightness) test
Nathan Stark (knee) test
Joel Macdonald (hamstring) 1 weeks
Chris Dawes (hamstring) 2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Plenty of players put themselves on the block in the second half against the Eagles. Mark Jamar's horrible season continues with the big fella failing to take a mark and finding one kick. Aaron Davey was subbed out with five kicks, Cam Pedersen again battled while Jimmy Toumpas – who will be a super midfielder – doesn't look up to AFL standard just yet.

ON THE CUSP: Boy, wouldn't the Demons love to blood Jesse Hogan this week? They've got a ripper in the teenage power forward from out west. He monstered North Ballarat in the VFL with four goals and a clutch of marks, but can't debut until next season. Max Gawn was terrific again, ramping up the heat on Jamar, while James Strauss tried hard. As for Jack Watts? He didn't play anywhere, with the Dees bizarrely taking their three emergencies to the MCG on Saturday.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: Swing the axe again or stick fat with a side that looked very capable for a half with increased intensity? A huge week looms for the Dees ahead of a simply must-win clash against GWS at the home of footy. It's not often finals are played in April, but this looks exactly that for Melbourne coach Mark Neeld.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: Looking to make some cash in the backline? Dean Terlich ($109k) is on the bubble this week, and looks to be good for about 60 points a week.

NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Nil

ON THE BLOCK: Taylor Hine was OK in his debut for the Kangaroos while Kieran Harper was again subbed out. Harper laid seven tackles, second only to skipper Andrew Swallow (11), which could hold him in good stead.

ON THE CUSP: Ben Jacobs responded to well his omission last week putting in a strong performance for VFL-affiliate North Ballarat. Ayden Kennedy was named best for Werribee.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: North was competitive outside of the third quarter when Sydney piled on 11 goals. But blowing leads has been the order of the season for the Kangaroos so far. Coach Brad Scott will be looking for a vastly improved performance against Brisbane on Sunday at Etihad Stadium. Watch for Drew Petrie to bounce back after being towelled up by All-Australian defender Ted Richards.

PORT ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Brett Ebert (adductor) 5 weeks
Nick Salter (foot) test
Paul Stewart (knee) TBA

ON THE BLOCK: Sad to see him go, but rookie Kane Mitchell will be off on SANFL duties barring a major injury setback at Alberton. With Nick Salter recovered from a foot injury, Mitchell is headed back to the rookie list. Port is waiting on scans of the knee injury forward Paul Stewart sustained during the Showdown.

ON THE CUSP: Sam Colquhoun did his chances of an AFL debut no harm picking up 22 disposals in the SANFL. Cameron Hitchcock jagged four goals while former skipper Dom Cassisi collected 21 touches including four inside-50s.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Port showed plenty of guts and determination yesterday wearing down cross-town rival Adelaide in the Showdown. Port's youngsters (Wines, Neade and Stevenson) look comfortable on the big stage. Add Justin Westhoff's remarkable turnaround (nine goals in two weeks), Travis Boak's maturity as captain and Hamish Hartlett's class and all is well at Alberton. Former Gold Coast assistant Ken Hinkley's intimate knowledge of Metricon and the way the Suns go about it could be critical come Saturday night.

RICHMOND

INJURIES
Nathan Foley (Achilles) test

ON THE BLOCK: Hear that? It's tumbleweeds blowing through the "on the block" section. The Tigers are up and about and every player is pulling his weight. The one exception might be Brandon Ellis, who only took the sub's vest off halfway through the last quarter against the Dogs. After starting as the sub two weeks in a row, he might be given a run in the VFL. Jake Batchelor was a late withdrawal yesterday but only for team balance.

ON THE CUSP: Coburg suffered a 100-point defeat in the VFL with Robin Nahas the standout with 27 disposals. Nick Vlastuin was at Etihad Stadium as an emergency for the senior team and didn't play. David Astbury returned but suffered another leg scare, although early indications are he'll be OK to line up for Coburg again this week. Nathan Foley is set to return from a long-term Achilles problem next week.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: After knocking off a couple of other mid-range sides and demolishing the Bulldogs, but the next three weeks will tell us if Richmond has really arrived: Collingwood (MCG), Fremantle (Patersons Stadium), Geelong (MCG). The last time Richmond defeated Collingwood the goalkickers included Graham Polak, Kayne Pettifer and Greg Tivendale. Can't wait to see Cotchin, Deledio and Martin go head-to-head with Pendlebury, Swan and Thomas. Get there early.

Richmond captain Trent Cotchin nabbed by Bulldog Luke Dahlhaus. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

ST KILDA

INJURIES
Daniel Markworth (ACL) season
Sean Dempster (hand) 3 weeks
James Gwilt (knee) 2-4 weeks
Jackson Ferguson (knee) 3 weeks
Adam Schneider (hamstring) 3-5 weeks
Jack Newnes (concussion) test

ON THE BLOCK: Don't expect many moves at selection this week after the Saints did what they'll do to bottom teams this year. New boys Tom Lee and Nathan Wright did enough for another run, with Wright particularly impressive against the Giants. The only concern is Jack Newnes, who was subbed out in the second quarter after a knock to the head. Arryn Siposs could come back in after he was left out at the last minute on Saturday.

ON THE CUSP: Tom Hickey dominated the ruck for Sandringham, while Seb Ross found plenty of the ball through the middle and Trent Dennis-Lane kicked three goals in a 32-point loss to Geelong. Justin Koschitzke kicked a goal and was named in the best.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Huge game coming up against Essendon – and Brendon Goddard – at Etihad Stadium on Saturday. The Bombers have injury and suspension worries and could suffer a let-down after a physically and emotionally draining win in Perth. With Sydney and Collingwood to follow, St Kilda needs to win this to stay in touch with the eight.

SYDNEY

INJURIES
Alex Johnson (knee) season
Gary Rohan (leg) indefinite
Rhyce Shaw (abdominal strain) TBA

ON THE BLOCK: Substitute Craig Bird (six disposals) didn't get much of a run and could be at risk.

ON THE CUSP: Mitch Morton put paid to NEAFL minnow Tuggeranong booting 11 goals in the Swans reserves' 194-point demolition job. Irishman Tommy Walsh slotted seven of his own.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: The Swans look to be building nicely ahead of Friday night's blockbuster against Geelong. Josh Kennedy, Ryan O'Keefe, Kieren Jack and Dan Hannebery haven't missed a beat while Jude Bolton (four goals) must have the Swans hierarchy thinking about 2014. The Swans' ruck division (Mike Pyke and Shane Mumford) had too much firepower for Todd Goldstein and should stretch the undermanned Cats at the stoppages. Looms as a snapshot of what we might see come September.

WEST COAST

INJURIES
Nic Naitanui (groin) indefinite
Mark Nicoski (hamstring) 4 weeks
Matthew Rosa (thigh) 2 weeks
Sharrod Wellingham (ankle) 2-3 weeks
Brad Sheppard (shoulder) TBA
Scott Lycett (ankle) test
Beau Waters (calf) TBA

ON THE BLOCK: Substitute Jamie Cripps could only must six disposals at 50 per cent efficiency. Late inclusion Jacob Brennan (eight disposals) is no certainty to keep his spot.

ON THE CUSP: Beau Waters must overcome a calf strain sustained last week during the pre-match warm-up. Bradd Dalziel answered his critics collecting 32 disposals in the WAFL after being dropped. Patrick McGinnity worked hard on the comeback trail from a back injury while Fraser McInnes booted two goals.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: How good is the Eagles forward line? Josh Kennedy is making every shot count after missing the bulk of last season. Jack Darling is showing no signs of slowing down while Mark LeCras is as clever as ever close to goal. Add the firepower Dean Cox brings to the table and this team will be thereabouts come September. A huge opportunity to go back-to-back on Saturday night while banishing the Blues to a debilitating 0-4 start.

WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES
Tom Williams (foot) available
Ayce Cordy (soreness) test
Dylan Addison (hamstring) test
Matthew Boyd (calf) test
Nathan Hrovat (calf) 1 week
Lin Jong (leg) TBC
Tory Dickson (ankle) TBC
Easton Wood (hamstring) TBC

ON THE BLOCK: Mass changes loom for the Dogs unfortunately. Wood's hamstring looked a shocker, meaning he could be sidelined for quite some time. And Tory Dickson's ankle appears just as bad. Put a line through him for a chunk of the season as well. Tom Campbell was quiet after coming in as a late change for Cordy.

ON THE CUSP: This is where it gets exciting. Picks 5 and 6 – Jake Stringer and Jackson Macrae – are both heavily in the mix to debut this week. Stringer could get the nod to replace Dickson as a forward. He booted four consecutive goals to ignite Williamstown on Saturday, finishing with five, and has a body ready for AFL. Macrae's trademark sidestep was eye-catching again, while Tom Williams returned in the VFL from a foot injury. Want to see more of Macrae's dazzling tricks bag? Take a look here.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: An encouraging start to the season unravelled against the Tigers, conceding 62 forward entries including 20 in the first term. If the kids get picked it'll add some excitement, while with a delicately young side still the odd disappointment can't be avoided.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 14: Brendan McCartney the coach of the Bulldogs talks to his players during the round three AFL match between the Richmond Tigers and the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on April 14, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images) Source:

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