Diberdayakan oleh Blogger.

Popular Posts Today

A review was needed, say AFL

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 27 April 2013 | 14.43

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick has blasted the umpires for not calling for a goal review in a decision that could have cost the Tigers victory against Fremantle.

Fremantle post a thrilling one-point victory over Richmond in their AFL clash at Patersons Stadium.

Fremantle coach Ross Lyon addresses the media after his side's thrilling one-point win over Richmond.

Tigers coach Damien Hardwick shows his anger after losing the match by one point to the Dockers. Picture: Paul Kane. Source: Getty Images

THE AFL has conceded a score review should have been called in the dying minutes of last night's Fremantle and Richmond clash at Patersons Stadium.

Tiger Matt White snapped a shot at goal with about four minutes remaining that would have put his side four points in front.

The ball bounced in to the leg of the goal umpire standing against the post as it appeared set to cross the goal line.

Play on was called, before the Dockers took the ball over the line for a rushed behind.

A furious Damien Hardwick labelled the call a "joke" after the game and insisted a score review should have been called for because, from his vantage point, he felt the ball had crossed the line for a call.

AFL spokesman Patrick Keane admitted today the goal umpire made an error.

"(The) AFL view is that a review should have been called by goal umpire last night,'' Keane said.

The AFL will also ask the umpiring department to review line positioning of goal umpires.

Both Hardwick and Fremantle coach Ross Lyon believed the ball had gone through for a goal before bouncing off the umpire's leg and back into play

Freo break Richmond hearts

White ended up kicking a goal a minute later to give Richmond the lead, but Dockers goalsneak Hayden Ballantyne snapped the winner with 84 seconds left to secure the 12.9 (81) to 12.8 (80) triumph.

"We've got this fantastic thing called a review system haven't we? Fair dinkum,'' Hardwick said. "Use it, or don't bother.

"At the end of the day there's a field umpire, a goal umpire, and four or five blokes sitting up in a box upstairs. Someone make a decision.

"Seriously, in a tight game - joke.''

Lyon said he understood Hardwick's frustrations all too well.

In the 2009 grand final when Lyon was coach of St Kilda, Geelong forward Tom Hawkins was awarded a goal despite his shot shaving the post.

The Cats ended up winning the match by 12 points.

"I've seen the other side of the coin,'' Lyon said. "At the end of the day, we're all humans. We all make mistakes.

"Damien is entitled to voice an opinion but I'll leave it to the papers and the AFL to sort it out.''

Hardwick was confident captain Trent Cotchin would be fit for Saturday night's clash with Geelong at the MCG.
Cotchin hyper-extended his knee late in the second quarter, but managed to play out the match and finished with 26 possessions and seven clearances.

Tigers debutant Nick Vlastuin put in a gutsy effort in defence, while former Crow Chris Knights played his best game for Richmond with three goals from 20 possessions.


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Suns too strong for Giants

Gold Coast forward Charlie Dixon booted a club record six goals to help the Suns defeat the Giants. Picture: Kym Smith Source: The Daily Telegraph

THE people of Canberra came to see another Gary Ablett masterclass, but it was Charlie Dixon who came of age and stole the show as Gold Coast eclipsed Greater Western Sydney by 44 points at Manuka Oval.

Dixon, spending time both in the ruck and up forward, booted 6.2 on Saturday as the Suns won a shootout between the AFL's expansion sides, 21.22 (148) to 16.8 (104).

The 22-year-old's haul was the greatest individual effort by a Gold Coast player, bettering Nathan Krakouer's 5.1 in their inaugural clash with Brisbane.

More importantly, the Queensland product popped through his sixth goal halfway through the final quarter from a difficult position to extend the visitors' lead to 25 points and finally snuff out GWS's resistance.

Live HQ: SuperCoach stats, scores


Dixon's haul was one of four records to fall for the Suns, who recorded their second win of the year.

The visitors booted their highest score and posted their greatest winning margin, while the 7.8 (second quarter)
and 8.4 (fourth quarter) represented their two best terms ever.

Ablett was no slouch and finished with 32 possessions and three goals, despite tallying just two disposals in the third quarter when he spent most of the time in the forward line.

Jaeger O'Meara (14 contested possessions and a game-high 11 clearances) was also outstanding for Gold Coast, while Dylan Shiel, Devon Smith and Callan Ward worked tirelessly in the middle for the Giants.

The match was locked up at 21 points apiece at quarter-time, but Gold Coast took control after the first break.

The Suns led by 37 points midway through the second term, only for the Giants to fight back and reduce their buffer to 25 points at halftime.

GWS trailed by only seven points early in the third quarter, but couldn't continue their resurgence in the decisive final quarter.

GWS embarrassed the Suns in the corresponding fixture last year, the first AFL clash between the expansion sides resulting in the Giants' maiden AFL win after a terrible final-quarter fadeout from Gold Coast.

This time around, fast-finishing Gold Coast looked too strong up forward and too smart with the ball in hand and it was only inaccurate kicking that prevented a genuine thumping.


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

LIVE CHAT: Hawkins late change

Marc Murphy (right) leads out Carlton against Adelaide at the MCG. Source: Getty Images

FOLLOW our live coverage of the clash in Canberra between the GWS Giants and the Gold Coast Suns right here.

Carlton v Adelaide
NO CHANGES
SUBSTITUTES: Eddie Betts (Carlton) and Rory Laird (Adelaide)

BREAKING

GEELONG could be forced to make a late change with spearhead Tom Hawkins in doubt for tonight's clash against Western Bulldogs.

The Cats' leading goalkicker is believed to be carrying some soreness from last weekend's 21-point win over Sydney and will likely sit out tonight's game at Etihad Stadium.

Geelong is heavy favourite to continue its undefeated start to the season against the injury-depleted Dogs.

Geelong has a no-risk injury policy and will have to reshuffle its forward line without Hawkins.


Gun defender Harry Taylor is likely to spend time forward and help support James Podsiadly in attack. 

Hawkins' replacement will come from the Cats emergencies. They are key position player Mitch Brown, speedster Jordan Murdoch and utility Cameron Guthrie.

The Cats lost veteran forward Paul Chapman to a hamstring problem but welcomed back star midfielder James Kelly from a calf injury for the Dogs clash.

-- Jay Clark

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



FINAL SCORES

GWS Giants 16.8 (104) Gold Coast Suns 21.22 (148)

A GREAT final quarter by the Suns get them home in Canberra.

It is their second win over the season, while the Giants remain winless on the bottom of the ladder.

Big Charlie Dixon played the game of his life, kicking six goals in a club record.

Matt Shaw is challenged by Stephen Coniglio. Source: Getty Images

THREE QUARTER-TIME

GWS Giants 12.6 (78) Gold Coast Suns 13.18 (96)

THE Suns have failed to put away the Giants, who just keep coming.

Two goals late in the term has the Giants in touch at the final change.

Charlie Dixon has five goals for the Suns.

Charlie Dixon fires off a handball to Jared Brennan. Source: Getty Images

HALF-TIME

GWS Giants 7.4 (46) Gold Coast Suns 10.11 (71)

THE Suns lead by 25 at half-time, but it could be by a lot more.

They led by as much as 38 during the term before the Giants kicked three quick ones.

Charlie Dixon kicked a steadier right on half-time, his fourth, to help regain the ascendency.

Gary Ablett leads the match for SuperCoach points on 82.

Get all the stats and SuperCoach scores by clicking here.

Jarrod Harbrow of the Suns gets a kick away under pressure from Dylan Shiel. Source: Getty Images

QUARTER-TIME

GWS Giants 3.3 21 Gold Coast Suns 3.3 (21)

Scores are level at quarter-time in Canberra.

Big Charlie Dixon kicked the first goal of the match, but the Giants were soon on the board through Rhys Palmer and Jeremy Cameron.

Jarrod Harbrow (10 disposals) and Gary Ablett (9 disposals) are leading the way for the Suns.

For the Giants, Dylan Shiel (10 disposals) and Devon Smith (9 disposals) are winning the ball.

Get all the stats and SuperCoach scores by clicking here.

Gary Ablett and Tom Scully go head to head. Picture: Smith Kym Source: The Daily Telegraph

PRE-GAME:

There are no changes to either side.

The substitute for the Suns will be defender Jack Hutchins, while Tom Bugg will wear the green vest for the Giants.

The Suns, who are 1-4, head into the clash as favourites.

But the Giants' first win came against their fellow expansion club in Canberra this time last year.

So they will rate their chances today.

Don't miss any of the action by following the game at Live HQ by clicking here.

The match gets underway at 1:45pm AEST, followed by Carlton and Adelaide at 4:40pm AEST.


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Walker injures knee against Blues

Taylor Walker is helped from the ground. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

ADELAIDE forward Taylor Walker has suffered a knee injury against Carlton at the MCG today.

Walker went up for a spoil and landed awkwardly on his right knee, which appeared to badly hyper-extend as he came down on it.

He immediately went to ground and had to be helped by the trainers to come off the ground.

Walker was almost immediately subbed out out of the game.

The good news is the Adelaide camp at this stage believe Walker has significantly strained the knee.

They don't believe he has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament, which is a season-ending injury.

More to come...


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Dank letter 'won't save players'

Written By Unknown on Kamis, 25 April 2013 | 14.43

The Bombers admit to drug investigators, some of its players took a banned anti-obesity drug last year.

Essendon have admitted to drug investigators some of its players took anti-obesity drug AOD-9604 last year. Source: Herald Sun

A DOCUMENT that Essendon says approved the use of banned drug AOD-9406 is unlikely to save players from lengthy bans, according to former anti-doping boss Richard Ings.

Essendon has admitted to drug investigators some of its players took the anti-obesity drug last year.

The Bombers said they relied on a document purported to have been issued by the World Anti-Doping Agency approving use of the substance, which WADA confirmed this week was banned.

It is believed Essendon's former sports scientist Stephen Dank showed a document to Bombers club doctor Bruce Reid.

Essendon does not have the letter, and believes Dank has the only copy.

But Ings, the former head of the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority, says the letter wouldn't absolve the players of blame.

"Athletes are absolutely responsible for what they take," he said.

"Elite multi-million-dollar-contract professional athletes have a duty of care to their clubs and to their code and their fans, and that includes picking up the phone and calling ASADA, talking to the AFL Players Association or the AFL medical commission to check and double-check on what they take before they take it because getting it wrong has severe consequences."

Follow Essendon v Collingwood live here

If charged with doping, players would be expected to defend themselves under "exceptional circumstances" provisions in the WADA code and the AFL Anti-Doping Code, which can have two-year bans cancelled.

WADA's rule 10.5.1 discusses the principle of "no fault or negligence", and is based on athletes proving they did not know what they were being given by sports scientists or doctors.

If an athlete can prove "in an individual case that he or she bears no fault or negligence, the otherwise applicable period of ineligibility shall be eliminated".

But Ings said Essendon players would not meet that criteria.

He said the no-fault clause only applies "if the player had absolutely no knowledge, no ability to ask a question, had no reason to suspect that what they were taking was dodgy, and it's only been applied to my knowledge where someone has actually been unconcious and injected with a banned substance," he said on 3AW.

"(The no-fault clause is only applied) if a player had absolutely no way of knowing that what they were taking was a prohibited substance and in this particular case I doubt they would get the benefit of having no fault."

Several Essendon officials are aware of the letter's existence.

Dank was not available to respond to questions about the document yesterday.

It has been reported "half a dozen" Bombers took the drug as part of the supplements program at Essendon last year, the subject of a joint Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority-AFL investigation.

While AOD-9604 is not banned under category S2 of the WADA code - which lists specific substances - it is prohibited under category S0, which states substances not approved for human use are prohibited at all times.

Hird raised to be Mr Anzac

Sports medico Dr Peter Larkins said today WADA and ASADA were not in the business of sending documents to approve the use of any supplement because their ingredients could not be guaranteed, and it would not have been hard to find out that AOD-9604 was off-limits.

"If you read the WADA code on the second page it is very clear that a drug that is not yet released for me to treat you with in my practice is prohibited at all times.

"What Richard says is correct. Otherwise you can go back to the East German regime and say the East German athletes shouldn't have been banned because they didn't know what they were taking when they were getting injected with anabolic steroids."

Reid has been interviewed by ASADA investigators and is believed to have told them of the letter of authorisation.

Essendon coach James Hird also has been interviewed, with other coaches and players to follow.

Dank has not yet agreed to talk to ASADA.

Given he is not employed by an AFL club, he is not compelled to submit to interview.

Asked about an AOD-9604 "authorisation letter" last night, an Essendon spokesman said: "The club has launched an AFL-ASADA investigation and an internal review and we will not be commenting until the investigations are completed."

Gallery: Dons warm up for blockbuster

The Australian Crime Commission said yesterday it had relied on information from ASADA in compiling its report on drugs in sport, which stated several times AOD-9604 was not prohibited.

Melbourne has also been linked to "AOD" in text exchanges between Dank and Demons club doctor Dan Bates revealed last week.

Bates, who has been stood down by Melbourne, was interviewed by ASADA and AFL officers last week.

He said yesterday: "I wish to point out that I will be open and transparent and I look forward to continuing to fully assist ASADA and the AFL in their investigations."

Ings said if players were found guilty of taking a banned substance the two-year ban could be reduced if they provided assistance in the drugs investigation.

"If players accept and admit that they've done something wrong these matters wrap up estremely quickly but if facts are contested - AOD is contested as being a banned substance or the degree of fault is contested - there are mutliple levels of appeal that could drag on for many months or even years."

- with Eliza Sewell and staff writers


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Tigers let Vlastuin loose

TAB's Adam Hamilton and Nick Quinn bring you the latest news and information for this week's AFL action.

Richmond's first-round draft pick Nick Vlastuin will play his first senior game tomorrow night. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

RICHMOND'S top draft pick Nick Vlastuin will make his debut against Fremantle tomorrow night.

The Tigers revealed today the 19-year-old midfielder, taken with pick nine in last year's national draft, will play against he Dockers at Patersons Stadium.

"I was on the massage table and Dimma (coach Damien Hardwick) rang me. I thought 'I'd better answer' just in case, and he told me to come to his office," Vlastuin told the club website.

"When I walked in he said congratulations. I thought he was going to tell me I had just missed out again, so I was very happy with that.

"I'm trying to keep it a bit low key at the moment … I haven't told too many people. But I'm stoked. I can't wait."

A strong-bodied ball-winner, Vlastuin captained Vic Metro at last year's under-18 national championships. He performed strongly during the NAB Cup and has been an emergency for three of the opening four rounds.

The Tigers will make at least three changes for the clash, with Reece Conca (foot) and Troy Chaplin (concussion) set to miss the trip while Steve Morris is suspended.


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Live: Anzac Day footy at the G

Watch Nathan Buckley react to Ben Reid's free kick for pushing Essendon's Tom Bellchambers in the third quarter.

Jason Winderlich celebrates a goal. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON is unbeaten on top of the AFL ladder after thrashing Collingwood at the MCG.

LATE CHANGES
Nil

SUBSTITUTES
David Myers (Essendon)
Tyson Goldsack (Collingwood)
Josh Saunders (St Kilda)
Lewis Jetta (Sydney)

FULL TIME - ESSENDON 121 - 75 COLLINGWOOD

ESSENDON produced a huge final quarter to steamroll Collingwood in front of more than 93,000 fans at the MCG.

The Bombers led by four goals at three-quarter time then kicked 6.5 to 3.1 to blow the game apart and win by 46 points.

The Magpies also face an anxious wait on defender Alan Toovey, who went down late in the match with a knee injury.

Essendon has its own injury concerns with key defender Jake Carlisle hurting an ankle after blanketing power forward Travis Cloke.

The Anzac Medal for best on ground was awarded to Bomber David Zaharakis, who had 34 disposals and four goals.

Essendon skipper Jobe Watson was also immense with 31 touches and two goals, while Jason Winderlich booted three in his second game back from a long-term injury layoff.

Steele Sidebottom, Heath Shaw and Scott Pendlebury were the Magpies' best.

SUPERCOACH STARS
Zaharakis 140
Pendlebury 135
Sidebottom 135
Watson 131
Swan 126

3/4 TIME - ESSENDON 80 - 56 COLLINGWOOD

A SOFT free kick paid to Tom Bellchambers directly in front of goal has steadied Essendon at the last change at the MCG today.

The gift followed a free kick and goal to Scott Gumbleton moments earlier as the Dons opened up a 24-point buffer at the last change.

The Bombers speared to a 32-point lead in the third term before Travis Cloke, Dane Swan and Scott Pendlebury lifted to bring the Pies back to life.

But the free kick goals steadied the Dons.

1/2 TIME - ESSENDON 40 - 36 COLLINGWOOD

A WASTEFUL Collingwood has crawled to within four points of Essendon at halftime despite an array of botched shots on goal.

The Pies converted just one goal from eight set-shots in the first half, while the Dons momentarily skipped to a three-goal lead early in the second quarter.

Brendon Goddard and Jobe Watson have led the way for the Dons, while Jake Carlisle is dominating star Pies forward Travis Cloke.

Steele Sidebottom's late goal kept the Pies in touch at the main break, with the star half-forward sneaking free inside 50.

The ball magnet racked up a game-high 22 disposals in the first half.

SUPERCOACH STARS
Sidebottom 91
Shaw 73
Watson 71
Zaharakis 70
Swan 68

Full list at Live HQ

1/4 TIME  - ESSENDON 15 - 11 COLLINGWOOD

STEELE Sidebottom has recaptured his best form, but Essendon leads at quarter-time at the MCG.

Sidebottom had 13 first-quarter disposals in a congested start that saw just three goals kicked.

It took 15 minutes for David Zaharakis to break the deadlock, while Jarryd Blair marked and goaled to give the Pies their first major.

Join our live chat below and head to Live HQ for live SuperCoach scores, stats and more from today's Collingwood-Essendon blockbuster.


Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats and more


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

ESSENDON v COLLINGWOOD, Thursday 2.40pm at the MCG

ESSENDON

B: M.Hibberd 1, C.Hooker 26, M.Baguley 46
HB: B.Stanton 5, J.Carlisle 22, B.Goddard 9
C: D.Heppell 21, J.Watson 4, C.Dempsey 15
HF: J.Merrett 20, D.Hille 19, S.Gumbleton 3
F: K.Hardingham 34, S.Crameri 12, A.Davey 29
Foll: T.Bellchambers 2, B.Howlett, 40, J.Winderlich 8
I/C: D.Zaharakis 11, D.Myers 23, H.Hocking 39, T.Colyer, 32
Emerg: N.Lovett-Murray 42, J.Melksham 17, T.Pears 16

In: Hardingham, Colyer, Crameri
Out: Hurley (ankle), Pears, Melksham

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, B.Macaffer, 3, P.Seedsman 40
Emerg: J.Witts 15, J.Thomas 24, B.Kennedy 27

In: Goldsack
Out: J.Thomas


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Leuey a big trade target

Charlie Dixon of the Suns takes on Matthew Leuenberger of the Lions. Picture: Darren England Source: The Courier-Mail

BRISBANE Lions ruckman Matthew Leuenberger is on course to become one of the AFL's most wanted players at season's end.

The athletic big man is out of contract at the end of the year and is looming large for new club Greater Western Sydney.

While the Giants' remain genuinely interested in Hawthorn superstar Lance Franklin, Leuenberger, 24, has emerged as an ideal back-up recruiting target.

GWS has made no secret of its desire to add an established blue-chip ruckman, and potentially some key defensive reinforcement, to help bolster its glittering young midfield.


Live HQ: Essendon v Collingwood

The club's list management chiefs, Graeme Allan and Stephen Silvagni, have been lauded for the Giants' start-up recruiting, but are yet to finalise their key trade options for October's exchange period.


Should Franklin, 26, accept a big-money bid from the Giants, Leuenberger could also come into the Hawks' contingency plans as a mobile ruck-key forward.

The Lions remain confident Leuenberger, a No. 4 draft pick, will remain in Queensland, having recovered a debilitating achilles injury.

But it is likely the Perth-raised big man will wait to finalise his contract later in the season, after only three games last year.

If the 204cm ruckman's recovery continues without setback, Leuenberger's value is expected to soar.

The Lions' direction will also be a factor for the 72-gamer, with coach Michael Voss again under pressure after a sloppy start to the season.

West Coast's Mitch Brown is also expected to lob on the Giants' radar.

Brown, a versatile key position player, has put off contract negotiations with the Eagles until the end of the season, after failing to secure a trade to St Kilda last year. The Saints are expected to continue to pursue Brown.

Gold Coast's Daniel Gorringe could also be on the move next season.

Gorringe, who is third in line in the Suns' ruck stocks behind Zac Smith and Charlie Dixon, has been trialled as a centre half back this year.

Out of contract at the end of the year, it is believed Gorringe, from South Australia, is being keenly pursued by Adelaide and Port Adelaide.

North Melbourne's Daniel Currie's deal also expires at the end of the season.
 


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Magpies won't risk Jolly

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 24 April 2013 | 14.43

James Hird says he's wary of Dane Swan's form against Essendon.

Collingwood ruckman Darren Jolly leaves the ground in pain during the Magpies' clash against Carlton. Source: Getty Images

COLLINGWOOD'S first choice ruckman Darren Jolly will miss tomorrow's Anzac Day match to be eased back through the VFL after a rib injury.

Jolly will join comeback midfielder Luke Ball in the VFL team in Bendigo on Friday night.

"If you look at his last seven weeks he has missed a lot of footy and training. He had his kidney issue about six weeks ago and he has missed a large chunk of training. So we're just giving him the opportunity to get up to speed and trust the incumbents at the moment,'' coach Nathan Buckley said after training today.


GALLERY: See the Pies prepare for Anzac Day

"If you take a step away and look at the reality of the situation, it's clear that Darren needs the solid training and the football. It won't take long for him to get back to speed, but it's pretty important for him to get that.''


While Buckley said experienced ruckman Ben Hudson has recovered well, the Magpies do have the option of bringing in young big man Jarrod Witts for what would be a dream debut on one of football's biggest days at the MCG.

"We'll have a discussion to decide whether we go with Ben or Jarrod. I'm pretty confident they both bring something to the table,'' Buckley said.

"Obviously, Jarrod hasn't played a (senior AFL) game yet and that comes into consideration. It's all about balancing up whether Huddo has recovered well enough, we feel that he's thereabouts, or whether we go with youth.

"We pick players to play their roles within the side regardless of what round it is. We're pretty confident we prepare our young players with that ability, so we wouldn't be considering the occasion.''

On the prospect of playing both Hudson and Witts to combat Essendon's talls, Buckley said: "It's probably unlikely. It's not the policy we've continued through the NAB Cup and into the early home-and-away (rounds).

"We believe Quinten Lynch is giving us really good cover in that regard. His minutes in the ruck have been damaging, he has been able to contest really strongly in the ruck contests.

"And around the ground, he has been able to get into dangerous positions and defended particularly well. So, we're pretty confident he provides a bit of structure for us in that regard.''

The Buzz: How Pies hit the jackpot with Quinten Lynch

Defender Nathan Brown (groin) and versatile Ben Johnson (calf) are ready to play as the Magpies staff eased the players through an ultra-short preparation.

"Players have recovered really well and we're all set to go. It's just another opportunity for us to play our type of footy for four quarters and test ourselves against pretty good opposition,'' Buckley said.

"It's something I've been fortunate enough to be a part of for a number of years. But you can't forget why we're playing on this day and that's the thing you try to get across to new people in your club.

The Barometer: Injury latest from every club

"We're blessed to represent Collingwood, the AFL and the wider community and we educate our new players and staff around the reality of Anzac Day and why it exists. And that's an important part of bringing people into our culture.''

On Essendon's unbeaten start to the season, Buckley said: "They're four and zip, they're playing irresistible footy both in offense and defence. Their contested ball is up very high and we expect a team full of confidence and with a bit of an us-against-the-world mentality at the moment and playing accordingly.''


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Scott irate over Brayshaw 'vendetta'

Brad Scott rubbishes accusations that Lindsay Thomas 'stages'.

Behind-the-scenes footage of Majak Daw receiving his North Melbourne jumper in the rooms before his AFL debut.

North Melbourne coach Brad Scott claims a journalist has a vendetta against club chairman James Brayshaw. Source: Herald Sun

NORTH Melbourne coach Brad Scott says the club may consider legal action over a journalist's alleged "personal vendetta" against club chairman James Brayshaw.

Scott was furious today over claims that Kangaroos medical services director Steve Saunders had been overruling the club's doctor since 2011.

Brayshaw had earlier criticised the AFL's insistence that club doctors have the final say on medical matters, as the doctors are part-time employees and other sports science and fitness staff are now full-time.

Scott described the comments, by Caroline Wilson on Footy Classified, as a "lie" and "potentially libellous" and said North Melbourne would be seeing an explanation.

"One thing that we are concerned about is that there are false accusations that any one of our staff would overrule a doctor. That is simply a lie," Scott said today.

"It's very dangerous territory when you start making those accusations without any evidence to back it up. I can categorically say that's not true.

"And, unfortunately, when Caroline Wilson speaks these days about North Melbourne most people think that it's just pursuing a personal vendetta that she's had against James Brayshaw for a long time."

Scott said North Melbourne would ask Wilson for an explanation before pursuing legal action.

"I think professional credibility and reputation is everything and when that's brought into question I think you've got a right to defend yourself," he said.

"So I think we'll be seeking explanation of those comments."


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Crouch down in Crow blow

Shane Crawford is in Hawaii but he's still thinking about SuperCoach - and Travis Cloke.

Brad Crouch celebrates a goal with Taylor Walker. Picture: Simon Cross Source: The Advertiser

ADELAIDE has been dealt a stinging blow with promising midfielder Brad Crouch expected to miss at least two weeks after suffering a hamstring injury at training today.

Crouch, who debuted this season after spending a year as an ineligible 17-year-old player on the Crows list, had impressed coach Brenton Sanderson in his few senior games but the injury is expected to be at the lower end.

Crouch warmed up with teammates before hurting his leg during today's closed session. He will be sent for scans to determine the damage.

"It's a bit of a setback for us,'' Sanderson said.

"I've really liked how he's been playing; he's been great for a first-year player."

SuperCoach rookie trade guide

SuperCoach unique pick stars and flops

Sanderson was this afternoon heading for a match committee meeting, and one of the first names that would be brought up to replace Crouch was Bernie Vince.

Vince was dropped to Woodville-West Torrens in the SANFL last weekend and responded with a dominant contribution.

"I did like how Bernie went back,'' Sanderson said. "He went back and dominated that game in the SANFL and he's too good to play in the SANFL, you know.

"So we'll look for opportunities to get those guys back where we can.''


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Carlisle commits to Bombers

James Hird says he's wary of Dane Swan's form against Essendon.

Fired-up Essendon defender Jake Carlisle shouts at an opponent. Source: Getty Images

JAKE Carlisle has re-signed with Essendon.

The key defender has penned a new two-year deal that ties him to the club until the end of the 2015 season.

The 21-year-old has been immense in the Bombers backline so far this season and news that he has re-committed himself to the club comes as a massive boost ahead of the Anzac Day showdown with Collingwood tomorrow.

"I couldn't be happier, it's a privilege to play for a club with such a rich and proud history, and it means a lot to recommit to the club that gave me the opportunity and drafted me,'' Carlisle said.

"I'm glad I could get my contract signed so early in the season so I can just focus purely on my football and keep developing my game.''


The Calder Cannons product has played 32 games since being selected by the Bombers with pick No.24 in the 2009 national draft.

To see an extended interview with Carlisle tune in to The Hangar on Fox Footy at 9pm tonight.
 


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Eddie slams Swan trade rumour

Written By Unknown on Selasa, 23 April 2013 | 14.43

Dane Swan has a laugh with president Eddie McGuire at Collingwood training. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

EDDIE McGuire talked with the GWS football manager about the value of Collingwood players but says claims he offered Dane Swan are "a joke".

McGuire used his breakfast show on Triple M to blast the rumours, labelling them "puerile, muck-raking, red-herring, bomb-throwing rubbish" after they were aired on TV last night.

However, the Collingwood president admitted he had casually discussed the potential value of several Magpie stars with long-time friend and former Collingwood administrator Graeme Allen - who is now in charge of the Giants' list.

McGuire believes GWS will offer some of its young midfield talent on the trade table to entice established stars from other clubs.

"We're mates and we talk about different things and over last year we would have talked about (which players GWS might chase) ... 'Gee we need key defenders, what about (Ben) Reid and (Nathan) Brown?', 'Yeah, good luck'.

"They have to star trading players out at some stage, we all know that.

"And I was saying what sort of players (would you be chasing), Pendlebury or Swan or Daisy Thomas - what sort of currency is in these guys. I think I might have even thrown in Cotchin, throwing in names of players around the place.

Magpie treasures Anzac toe-poke

"Gubby might well have gone back and said, 'There's a chance to shake one of them out at Collingwood because we've got so many good players'. Every club in the league is looking at GWS and saying how do we get in there.

"At not stage did I say, 'Hey mate, why don't you walk down to the Westpac Centre and grab Dane Swan?'

"Give it a break, has everyone heard what I've said about this bloke in recent times? People are not that stupid.

"That's cloud cuckoo land stuff."

McGuire said the rumours were coming out of GWS in an attempt to "undermine my credibility".

He also revealed Swan would be appearing on Triple M for free this season rather than worry about getting the deal approved by the AFL's salary cap watchdog.


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Magpie treasures Anzac toepoke

Collingwood forward Jarryd Blair traces his last-gasp goal to deliver the Magpies victory over Essendon in the 2012 Anzac Day match. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

Magpie Jarryd Blair is all smiles at training. Picture: Getty Source: Herald Sun

FOR Collingwood's Jarryd Blair, it's as vivid as if it happened yesterday - the toepoke that dribbled the ball over the line and prompted the agonising wait for the review to clear the winning Anzac Day goal.

"I knew I had got the outside of the boot on the ball, but the video seemed to show that I might have touched it with my hand, which I didn't,'' Blair said today.

The last score with only a minute left on the game clock delivered the one-point victory against Essendon at the MCG last season.

"That goal was something I'll treasure for the rest of my life,'' Blair said following the Magpies' recovery at the St Kilda sea baths.

"I wouldn't say I won the day for our side. There was a lot that led up to that moment, but to be able to contribute and kick that goal, it was an amazing feeling and something I'm pretty proud of.

"It was a case of right place at the right time. There was a contest in the goalsquare and I was lucky enough the ball fell my way.''


Blair said the occasion overrides any problems with the ultra-short recovery and players will be hyped for the honour to represent the AFL on such a special day.

"It's obviously a different experience than your standard six or seven day break. But it's a day everyone wants to be part of and come Thursday no-one's going to be feeling very sore. It's a massive day for Australia and it's a privilege to play in it and little niggles become irrelevant,'' he said.

Eddie McGuire slams Dane Swan trade rumour

Blair returns to the MCG on Thursday as a more assured Magpie. Categorised early last season as a small, crumbing forward, he's now a valued member of the midfield group, particularly for his defensive workrate.

He was thrust into the midfield role after Luke Ball's knee injury after three rounds last year and that role has continued after best and fairest winner Dayne Beams' delayed start to this season.

"There has been a little more midfield time with Beamsy not being available for the last month. I went through there a bit last year and I've spent more time due to injuries mainly,'' Blair said.

"The idea of any pre-season is to allow you to perform and that's what has happened. It was another tough summer and it's paying dividends for a lot of the boys.

See your club's latest injury list in The Barometer

"Pre-season was probably the toughest one that I've been a part of and the body held up well to fill me with confidence going into the year.

"Our (US) altitude camp was one of the toughest we've had, it was to the next level of intensity and continually backing up those sessions, day in, day out.

"The way the game's going with less stoppages and less stopped play, you've got to be able to cover more ground with more intensity.

"It's around the contest where games are won and lost and I don't think it will be any different this week.''

Blair said gun forward Travis Cloke's brilliant early season form has fuelled the collective confidence of the Pies.

"It was pretty impressive. When he's in full flight like that, he's pretty hard to stop and, when he's playing that type of footy, it fills the rest of the side with confidence, that if you get the ball in there, he's going to get the job done. He has had a pretty good summer and he's feeling pretty good and that's showing in the way he's playing his football,'' Blair said.


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Anti-obesity drug banned - WADA

A convicted drug trafficker claims he helped AFL and NRL players dope and dodge blood tests.

Explosive new doping claims have been revealed in an interview with biochemist Shane Charter.

Shane Charter, who is embroilled in the Dank, Essendon and AFL drug drama. Picture: Chris Scott Source: Herald Sun

THE World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has confirmed a growth hormone alleged to have been used by Essendon players last year is a banned substance, as convicted drug dealer Shane Charter says he helped footballers use performance enhancing drugs.

It is alleged anti-obesity drug AOD-9604, which has not been cleared for human use, was administered to at least six Essendon players last year by controversial sports scientist Stephen Dank.

Confusion has surrounded the status of the growth hormone with the Australian Crime Commission stating in its Drugs in Sport report that the drug was not yet banned.

But last night WADA issued a statement that as the drug has not been approved for human use it is a banned substance.

"AOD-9604 is a substance still under pre-clinical and clinical development and has not been approved for therapeutic use by any government health authority in the world," the statement said.

"Therefore, under the 2013 Prohibited Substances and Methods List, the substance falls into the S.0 category which states: Any pharmacological substance which is not addressed by any of the subsequent sections of the List and with no current approval by any governmental regulatory health authority for human therapeutic use (e.g drugs under pre-clinical or clinical development or discontinued, designer drugs, substances approved only for veterinary use) is prohibited at all times."

WADA said it issued the statement following several inquiries regarding the drug.

Mr Dank has reportedly said he injected Essendon players with the anti-obesity drug.

While Metabolic Pharmacy chief executive David Kenley, whose company holds the worldwide rights to AOD, said he had often discussed the drug with Mr Dank.

Mr Kenley said he believed some Essendon players used the drug to help them recover from injury more quickly.

"I understand it used by about half a dozen footballers at Essendon purely to assist in soft tissue injury and to aid the recovery so that the players that were injured could get back onto the pitch quicker,' he told the ABC's Four Corners program last night.

Former Head of the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority Richard Ings said this morning that any player using AOD 9604 after 2011 has a serious case to answer.

"The announcement overnight by WADA is extremely significant," he told 3AW radio.

"One of the threshold questions in this whole investigation has been the status of AOD 9604 and WADA has definitively said that it is classified as a banned substance under the WADA".

The WADA statement comes as Charter claims he helped elite footballers dope and dodge blood tests.

The bodybuilder and biochemist's claims cast fresh doubt on the adequacy of existing sports drug testing regimens and bring new urgency to the need for benchmark blood testing, also known as biological profiling, of athletes.

On ABC TV's program, Four Corners, Charter was asked: "Just to be clear, you've assisted NRL players and AFL players with their use of performance-enhancing drugs?"

He replies: "I've kept them in a safe and non-toxic range so that they didn't do long-term damage to themselves," he said.

Charter, who is represented by celebrity agent Max Markson, is believed to have extensive knowledge of sports doping practices not only within football but several other sports.

He has told how doped athletes would pull out of an event citing injury if blood tests conducted beforehand indicated they would return a positive official test.

"If they (test results) came back and they weren't passing the test, then depending on the product and the timeline up to the event, that athlete may pull a hamstring and not go to that event," he said.

"There's a difference between being shown positive and using performance-enhancing drugs, and that's the issue I'm trying to bring to light."

Charter worked with Mr Dank, the sports scientist at the centre of the doping scandal sweeping Australian sport.

Mr Dank has denied links with Charter, but it has been alleged Charter has correspondence between the pair stretching back 18 months.

Charter, who is known to spend time in Thailand and has visited Malaysia, has claimed a bikie-affiliated contact in the powerlifting industry introduced him to performance-enhancing drugs and organised crime in both Australia and Asia.

Europol is investigating a worldwide soccer match-fixing operation anchored in Asia.

Charter, who once knew Hird and chairman David Evans, is adamant that Hird had not use banned substances.

"James is proud of the fact that I was able to help James in his twilight years to get that extra season out of him," he said.

Charter was charged in 2004 with bringing millions of dollars worth of pseudoephidrine into Australia.

A personal trainer, he had also worked with a number of football players.

There has never been a suggestion they took banned substances.

The Herald Sun has reported that Charter was an associate of the late underworld figure John Giannarelli, a sports agent who has represented athletes including Olympic swimmer Scott Miller and jockey Simon Marshall. Miller admitted to supplying ecstasy to a friend, rugby player Mark Catchpole, in 2008.

Biological profiling is under way in the AFL and is being introduced by the NRL.

- with James Dowling


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Goodes: Swans play like All Blacks

Adam Goodes says his side plays like the All Blacks. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

SYDNEY star Adam Goodes says unlike his teammates, he's not keen on the AFL's rough and tough side.

Questioned by New Zealand media in Wellington on his attributes as a player, the dual Brownlow Medallist compared the Swans to NZ's national rugby union team the All Blacks, but said he was the exception.

"If people are coming to watch the Swannies play for the first time and you've never seen us or you didn't see our grand final last year, we like to play our game like the All Blacks," Goodes told reporters at Wellington's Westpac Stadium.

"Hard and tough and we play for the full 90 minutes, (but) in our game it's 120 minutes.

"We don't let up and it's all about the tackles and the one-on-one contests.

"For myself, I'm not too big on laying tackles and what-not.

"I'm the sort of player that likes to get the ball on the outside and just run and use my athleticism, whether it's to take the marks or whether it's at ground level."

Goodes said if any of the All Blacks made the switch to AFL, he'd be worried.

"I don't want any of those blokes coming to tackle us, I can tell you that right now," he said.

"It's one thing that quite scares me, to be honest."

He told the NZ media the beauty of Australian Rules football was that whether players were tall, short, broad or skinny they could make an impact.

The Swans play St Kilda in Wellington on Thursday night.


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Hurley ruled out of Anzac Day

Written By Unknown on Senin, 22 April 2013 | 14.43

Essendon remain undefeated after beating St Kilda but lose key forward Michael Hurley to an ankle injury.

Essendon forward Michael Hurley is carried off by trainers after hurting his ankle. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON captain Jobe Watson says while bookends Michael Hurley and Dustin Fletcher are set to miss Thursday's Anzac Day showdown, forward Stewart Crameri is a chance to return to face Collingwood.

Crameri, who was a late withdrawal with a knee injury from the Bombers team that defeated St Kilda on Saturday, did handball drills away from the main group at the Bombers light recovery session today.

Hurley was subbed out at the weekend with an ankle injury while Fletcher missed the match with a groin problem.

Watson also said prized father-son recruit Joe Daniher was " in the mix".

"Just with the short turn around being an ankle injury, there's no structural damage but five days, very difficult to get up," Watson said of Hurley.

He expected both Hurley and Fletcher to be fit to face GWS in Round 6.

Watson said the Bombers had great depth.


"I think what it is is it's creating a lot of hunger amongst the VFL guys," Watson said.

The Tackle: Robbo's take on Goddard's tears

" Pearsy' (Tayte Pears) has played for six weeks in the VFL and Gumby's (Scott Gumbleton) been the same, Hilley's been the same.

"(Nathan) Lovett-Murray hasn't been able to get an opportunity yet, Leroy Jetta hasn't got an opportunity ... When you get that competitive type of hunger out of a VFL side it means that guys not only are they in a good mindset to play when they get their opportunity but they've got to good fitness as well. At the moment it's holding us in good stead."

He expected the Anzac Day clash to be a "scrap".
 


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Milne banned and fined

Stephen Milne (right) gets involved in a stoush between Bomber Courtenay Dempsey and Ahmed Saad. Source: Getty Images

STEPHEN Milne is set to miss St Kilda's historic Anzac Day clash in New Zealand after being banned for grabbing an opponent's face.

Milne has been offered a one-match suspension for misconduct "in that he he made unnecessary contact to the face" of Essendon defender Courtenay Dempsey.

The Saints goalsneak joined a stoush between Dempsey and Ahmed Saad in the final term of the clash at Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

The incident was assessed as reckless, low impact and high contact, worth 225 demerit points and a two-match suspension. Milne has no existing good or bad record and can reduce the penalty to a one-match ban with an early guilty plea.

Earlier, an altercation between Dempsey and Saad sparked an all-in brawl after the halftime siren.

Milne has been fined $3000 for his role in the melee. It is Milne's third melee offence.

Teammates Nathan Wright, Tom Simpkin, Jarryn Geary and Saad have been fined $1200 for a first melee offence.

A melee breaks as Stephen Milne and Ahmed Saad of the Saints wrestle with Michael Hibberd of the Bombers. Source: Getty Images

Essendon players Tom Bellchambers, Michael Hibberd and Jake Carlisle face $2100 fines for second melee offences.

It is another blow to the Saints attack, which has already lost Beau Maister for up to six weeks with a fractured wrist.

The match review panel has also handed a two-match ban to Melbourne's Neville Jetta for a late hit on GWS midfielder Lachie Whitfield at the MCG yesterday. Watch the bump below.

Neville Jetta faces nervous wait for ruling on bump on Lachie Whitfield.

Richmond could be without defender Steve Morris for its trip to Perth to face Fremantle on Friday night after he was offered a two-match ban for a late bump on Magpie Jamie Elliott. The penalty can be cut to one match with an early guilty plea.

The bump incensed Collingwood president Eddie McGuire, who was commentating the match for Fox Footy. See his reaction HERE.

And Brisbane's Irish defender Pearce Hanley appears certain to miss his side's clash against Port Adelaide after he was hit with a one-match ban for striking Kangaroo Lindsay Thomas. Hanley's penalty cannot be reduced to a reprimand because of his poor record.

Lions midfielder Jack Redden can accept a reprimand for a bump on Ben Cunnington and Crows veteran Scott Thompson can accept a reprimand for rough conduct against Bulldogs defender Brett Goodes.

A charge against Roos forward Drew Petrie was thrown out.

If you don't mind, umpire: The biggest umpiring eyebrow-raisers of Round 4


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

The Barometer: Round 5

North Melbourne say Majak Daw should be right to play next week after suffering a head knock in the Kangaroos' game with Brisbane Lions.

Will Brian Lake come in for the Hawks? Source: Herald Sun

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

ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Brodie Smith (collarbone) 3-4 weeks
Ian Callinan (knee) available
Nathan van Berlo (knee) test

ON THE BLOCK: Hard to read too much into yesterday's whitewash over the Western Bulldogs. Rookie Ricky Laird tried hard but his efficiency (50 per cent) let him down. Jared Petrenko is no certainty to keep his spot with a couple of experienced heads on the outer.

ON THE CUSP: Skipper Nathan van Berlo must prove his fitness on the track after missing last week with a knee injury. Bernie Vince made the most of his SANFL hitout, amassing 27 disposals including seven clearances. Defenders Luke Thompson (21 possessions, six rebound 50s) and Brodie Martin (27 touches, 10 marks and two goals) put their hands up for selection. Jarryd Lyons is also in the mix.


GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Not sold on the 2-2 Crows just yet. The Bulldogs were no match yesterday, while beating Brisbane in Round 2 is nothing to crow about either. Patrick Dangerfield exploded in the first half against the Dogs after mixing his form during the first month of footy. Rory Sloane was the eye-catcher finishing with 29 disposals including eight clearances. We'll know more about this lot on Saturday afternoon when they come up against Carlton, fresh off its big win in the west.

Simon Black and Brent Staker playing in Lions reserves v Broadbeach in NEAFL Picture: Searle Jonathon Source: Herald Sun


BRISBANE

INJURIES
Claye Beams (knee) season
Jared Polec (ankle) TBA
Brent Staker (knee) 1-2 weeks
Jesse O'Brien (adductor) 3-4 weeks
Matt McGuire (ankle) 1-2 weeks
Ash McGrath (leg) TBA

ON THE BLOCK: Ash McGrath could miss after coming off with a leg injury early in the loss to North Melbourne. Pearce Hanley is another out after copping a one-match ban from the match review panel. Stefan Martin has struggled and could easily be given the flick as Michael Voss looks to make a statement at selection. Substitute Marco Paparone (three goals) did more than enough on debut to warrant a second run. Josh Green was hit and miss with four clangers.

ON THE CUSP: Could Simon Black sneak back into the team? The Lions superstar emerged unscathed from his first game in eight months, picking up 26 disposals in the NEAFL. Vossy could do worse than start his great mate as the substitute for Sunday's match against Melbourne. Brent Staker also played at NEAFL level and got through the game OK. Fringe Lions James Polkinghorne, Todd Banfield and Patrick Karnezis were all named in the best, while Aaron Cornelius booted six goals. If only the enigmatic forward could repeat the dose in the senior team on a regular basis.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: The Lions should be too good on their home deck for Melbourne. But they're far from certainties. The forward line is a mess, cap gun at best with marking targets Stef Martin and Jonathan Brown under the weather. Looking for Rich, Zorko and Rockliff to step up and impact the scoreboard this week. Karnezis could also be a bolter for selection in a forward role.

SuperCoach studs and duds

CARLTON

INJURIES
Eddie Betts (jaw) test
Marcus Davies (ankle) TBA
Matthew Kreuzer (thumb) 6 weeks
Andrew McInnes (knee) 6-8 weeks
Jarrad Waite (calf) 1-2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Substitute Aaron Joseph could come under fire with the Blues set to make at least one change if Eddie Betts returns. Simon White is another who just hasn't been able to put it together after a solid pre-season. Sam Rowe butchered the ball (36 per cent) but is offering a marking target.

ON THE CUSP: Betts will be itching to get a run after missing a couple of games with a broken jaw. David Ellard was best afield for the Northern Blues, booting four goals against Coburg. Levi Casboult slotted three goals and could come into calculations. Nick Duigan, Tom Bell and Jeremy Laidler remain in the wings.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Huge opportunity for Mick Malthouse to get his season back on track against an Adelaide side struggling with consistency. Malthouse would be rapt with his backline after it restricted Eagles powerhouses Josh Kennedy and Jack Darling last week. But new challenges await in Taylor Walker and the Crows' throng of goalkicking midfielders.

COLLINGWOOD

INJURIES
Nathan Brown (adductor) TBC
Luke Ball (knee) 1 week
Tyson Goldsack (unspecified) TBC
Ben Johnson (calf) available
Darren Jolly (ribs) Test
Clinton Young (hamstring) 1-2 weeks
Dayne Beams (quad) 1-2 weeks
Brodie Grundy (back) 3-5 weeks
Lachlan Keefe (knee) 4-5 weeks
Michael Hartley (shoulder) 4 weeks
Nick Maxwell (wrist) 4-5 weeks
Tim Broomhead (glandular fever) 7 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Key defender Nathan Brown has an adductor injury and appears unlikely to face the Bombers on Anzac Day. It is a blow for the Magpies, but slightly tempered by the news Essendon will be without spearhead Michael Hurley. It is a quick turnaround and the Pies will need some fresh legs. The likes of Brent Macaffer, Paul Seedsman and Ben Sinclair  might be the unlucky ones if Nathan Buckley decides to change it up.

ON THE CUSP: Andrew Krakouer is knocking on the door. He had 36 disposals in the twos at the weekend and looks good. Does Bucks bring him in on the big stage? It would be tempting to unleash the Krak. Assistant coach Robert Harvey said on radio today the club expects Ben Johnson, Tyson Goldsack, Alan Didak and Brown to be available for selection. But he also noted the good form shown against Richmond will make it difficult to make too many changes.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: Collingwood's depth has been impressive. They are missing key cogs of their side, but are still getting the job done. Others such as West Coast should take notice. There's still no Luke Ball, Dayne Beams, Clinton Young or Nick Maxwell. And ruckman Darren Jolly is likely to miss again. But they are being covered by the kids, who are all playing a role. If they produce the same intensity as shown against Richmond, it will be another Anzac Day win for the Pies.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: Travis Cloke, take a bow. His career-high seven goals meant he scored 195 SuperCoach points, which boosted his average to 124 and price to $515,900. Dane Swan, in his 200th game, helped himself to 168 points.

Andrew Krakouer could come in for the Pies. Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON

INJURIES
Michael Hurley (ankle) Won't play
Dustin Fletcher (groin) Won't play
Stuart Crameri (knee) Test

ON THE BLOCK: Essendon has lost its bookends for Anzac Day with Michael Hurley and Dustin Fletcher both ruled out. It hurts the Dons' spine against the in-form Magpies, who blitzed Richmond at the MCG on Saturday. It is unlikely the undefeated Bombers will flirt with form and make too many unforced changes.

ON THE CUSP: They lose Hurley, but might get back Stuart Crameri - who was a late withdrawal against St Kilda with a knee injury. And this will really excite Bomber fans - Joe Daniher is "in the mix" - according to skipper Jobe Watson. The much hyped Daniher has to be a chance to come in against the Maggies. And what a time to do it - in front of 90,000 at the MCG on Anzac Day. Come on, Hirdy.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: The injuries have come at Bomberland after an unblemished start to the season. Unfortunately, it has hit their bookends. But they will still head into Anzac Day with the confidence they can knock off Collingwood. They are unbeaten and playing good football. Have lost their past seven games against the Pies, but have the game style to trouble them.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: Skipper Jobe Watson scored above 120 for the third time this season but amazingly dipped in price, if only by $2,800. He might be a bit more affordable after this week with a break-even of 149.

Joe Daniher in action. Source: Herald Sun

FREMANTLE

INJURIES
Anthony Morabito (knee) season
Aaron Sandiland (foot) 6 weeks
Matthew Pavlich (Achilles) 6 weeks
Luke McPharlin (concussion) test

ON THE BLOCK: Poor Nick Suban. Had a dog of day and copped a spray from his coach on live television at halftime for his troubles. Two disposals and 50 per cent efficiency should just about ensure the defender spends the weekend in the WAFL. Cameron Sutcliffe butchered the ball while debutant and late inclusion Tanner Smith did just enough in his baptism of fire.

ON THE CUSP: Luke McPharlin you'd think is a certainty to line up against Richmond. Hayden Crozier was rock solid in the WAFL with 17 disposals and two goals.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Important for the Dockers to bounce back after their ill-fated trip south. Ross Lyon's "anyone, any time, anywhere" mantra was put to bed by quarter-time with the Hawks piling on five unanswered goals. Matt de Boer has room for improvement after mixing his form in recent weeks, while marking targets Chris Mayne and Kepler Bradley need help inside the arc.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 21: Majak Daw of the Kangaroos gets carried off the ground after a heavy knock during the round four AFL match between the North Melbourne Kangaroos and the Brisbane Lions at Etihad Stadium on April 21, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images


GEELONG

INJURIES

Daniel Menzel (knee) TBC
James Kelly (calf) available
Travis Varcoe (shoulder) 11-12 weeks
Josh Cowan (Achilles) indefinite
Hamish McIntosh (knee) indefinite
George Burbury (foot) indefinite
Jed Bews (foot) indefinite
Dawson Simpson (back) Indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Not too many. Coach Chris Scott will not want to tinker too much with the side that defeated Sydney at the SCG. If he felt picky, the likes of forward Billy Smedts and Josh Caddy might be feeling a tad nervous. Luckless Daniel Menzel is also set for another knee reconstruction after hurting himself in the twos at the weekend. Horrible luck.

ON THE CUSP: There are a few knocking on the door. Josh Hunt and Cameron Guthrie are both playing well in the twos and continue to push for a return, although the side is looking quite settled at the second.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: What a win that was in Sydney. The Cats are flying and you can all but pencil in another win this weekend against the hapless Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium. Make no mistake of  it, the Cats are not going anywhere. Premiership contenders again with a capital P.

SUPERCOACH WATCH- Joel Selwood - what a superstar. The inspirational Geelong skipper collected 163 points against the Swans. Defender Harry Taylor (125) also impressed greatly.

GOLD COAST

INJURIES
Matthew Warnock (arm) 8 weeks
Joel Wilkinson (ankle) TBC
Harley Bennell (hamstring) 1 weel
Liam Patrick (hamstring) 1-2 weeks
Seb Tape (knee) 1-2 weejs
Jesse Lonergan (wrist) 1 week
Campbell Brown (suspension) 2 weeks
Maverick Weller (shoulder) 1 week
Nathan Bock (leg) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Massive blow for the Suns with scans confirming key defender Matthew Warnock will miss eight weeks with a fractured arm. Defender Joel Wilkinson will come out with an ankle injury and Harley Bennell will also miss again with a hamstring strain. There will also be some unforced changes too. Angry coach Guy McKenna said he was "sharpening the axe" after the disappointing loss to Port Adelaide at Metricon Stadium on Saturday night. A few of their big men would be nervous this week.

ON THE CUSP: The "Bull" Danny Stanley should come in for his first game of the year after overcoming groin and back complaints. He has spent a few weeks in the twos and is ready to go. Expect to see forward Tom Lynch back in the side after kicking six goals in the twos at the weekend. "The Cannon" Trent McKenzie also has to be close.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: GWS Giants in Canberra this week. Massive game for the Suns. They were humbled by the Giants in Canberra a year ago, and it should serve as a reminder not to underestimate their fellow expansion club this time. On that day, the Giants cracked in hard while the Suns just didn't feel like doing the work. They cannot let it happen again. They have their injuries, but so do the Giants. A must-win.

SUPERCOACH WATCH- IF you took big man Charlie Dixon at the start of the season, you would be smiling. Another big showing on the weekend with 103 points. His price is up almost $62,000 since Round 1.

Matthew Warnock will miss eight weeks. Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

GWS

INJURIES
Taylor Adams (hip) TBC
Matthew Buntine (lung) 2 weeks
Dom Tyson (knee) 4 weeks
Chad Cornes (shoulder) Indefinite
Dean Brogan (suspended) 2 weeks
Jon Patton (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: Tim Mohr is out of form and likely to find himself out of the side against the Suns. No.1 draft pick Lachie Whitfield hurt his shoulder against the Demons, but should be right this weekend.

ON THE CUSP: Expect to see former Blue Bret Thornton come in for the Giants. The big man booted eight golas in the twos at the weekend and is primed for an AFL return. The Suns have lost key defender Matthew Warnock and the Giants will want to exploit them here. Could be a bolter for the Giants.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: They were terrific for three quarters against Melbourne before badly falling away in the final term, conceding 12 goals. Have to pick themselves back up quickly as this is a winnable game for them. Got the better of the Suns this time last year in Canberra and will be confident they can do it again here.

HAWTHORN

INJURIES
Ryan Schoenmakers (knee) season
Brad Sewell (hamstring) test
Derek Wanganeen (hamstring) test
Xavier Ellis (calf) 1 weeks
Brendan Whitecross (knee) 5 weeks
Matthew Suckling (knee) indefinite
Alex Woodward (knee) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Terrible news with defender Ryan Schoenmakers to miss the rest of the season with a knee injury. He requires a reconstruction and it is a big blow for Hawthorn's defensive structure. Shane Savage is also likely to find himself on the block this week.

ON THE CUSP: Brian Lake, finally. The ex-defender is set to come in against the Roos. And he may be joined by midfielder Brad Sewell, he looks to have overcome a hamstring injury. Brett Guerra is also in their calculations.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: They are playing good football and should be too strong for the Kangaroos. But they will really miss Schoenmakers, who has been a very important key defender for them. Their back six has taken some well documented hits, going back to the end of last season. Will it finally begin to take its toll?

SUPERCOACH WATCH- Shaun Burgoyne (153) and Grant Birchall (152) did the damage on the weekend. Massive scores by both.

Ryan Schoenmakers requires a knee reconstruction. Source: The Mercury

MELBOURNE

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

ON THE BLOCK: Neville Jetta will miss two weeks for his high bump on Lachie Whitfield against the Giants. Jack Viney may be due for a breather after being subbed off yesterday with just five disposals.

ON THE CUSP: With Jetta out, expect to see Jordie McKenzie come in. Daniel Nicholson is also close to a recall.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: Hip, hip, hooray! Finally a win at the embattled Demons - and didn't they need it. They produced 12 final-quarter goals against the Giants. The big question whether they can build on that as they prepare to face Brisbane at the Gabba on Sunday. The Lions are battling, but they would still need to produce something special up north. In three weeks they play Gold Coast so the win-loss ledger could look a whole lot healthier if the Dees find their mojo.

SUPERCOACH WATCH- Ex-Cat Shannon Byrnes boosted his price by $36,800 with his 128 points at the weekend.

Neville Jetta faces nervous wait for ruling on bump on Lachie Whitfield.

NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Majak Daw (concussion) test
Robbie Tarrant (leg test

ON THE BLOCK: Time is running out for Lachie Hansen. The at-times maligned 2006 No.3 pick struggled (seven disposals, three clangers) against the Lions while all around him ran riot. Majak Daw did enough in his exhilarating 18 minutes on the ground to suggest he'll play (if fit) on Sunday. Sam Wright and Liam Anthony could be at risk with a number of Kangaroos performing well at VFL level.

ON THE CUSP: Robbie Tarrant plays if fit after breaking down at training last week. Ben Jacobs had the ball on a string for North Ballarat, collecting 41 disposals including 13 clearances. Developing forward Aaron Black booted five goals in the same game while Will Sierakowski was OK for Werribee.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Coach Brad Scott says the Kangaroos learn more from their losses than they do wins. Wind back the clock nine months and one loss, one man stands out. Lance Franklin. Thirteeeeeeeeen! Scott Thompson and Nathan Grima were towelled up that Saturday afternoon as the Hawks piled on 27 goals for a 115-point bloodbath in Launceston. Retribution on Sunday? For North's sake, let's hope so. As far as positives go, the Kangaroos' 1-3 record is better than it suggests with narrow losses to top-four aspirants Collingwood and Geelong before being outclassed by Sydney.

PORT ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Brett Ebert (adductor) 3 weeks
Paul Stewart (knee) test

ON THE BLOCK: Hard to knock a winning team. Good to see Robbie Gray emerge unscathed in his comeback from a knee reconstruction last year. Jake Neade has hit the rookie wall, refer Melbourne young gun Jack Viney, and could be in need of  a break after a solid month of footy.

ON THE CUSP: Paul Stewart will come into consideration if fit while Cameron Hitchcock enjoyed a solid SANFL hitout with 18 disposals, seven inside-50s and two goals. Utility Andrew Moore was also handy picking up 15 possessions including five clearances and a goal. He also laid six tackles.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Port is faced with yet another test when it hosts West Coast on Saturday night. The 4-0 Power look to have a more settled midfield than the Eagles, but could struggle in the ruck, with Dean Cox way too classy for both Matthew Lobbe and Brent Renouf. Can The Hoff's run continue? Bearded flyer Justin Westhoff  (three goals) could easily have kicked five against the Suns, while Jay Schulz is as dangerous as ever from anywhere inside 55m.

Round 4: AFL Top 40 Gallery

RICHMOND

INJURIES
Sam Lonergan (hamstring) test
Jake King (leg) TBA
Troy Chaplin (concussion) test

ON THE BLOCK: After a settled opening to the season, the Tigers' match committee might have some work to do. Jake King looked very sore when he hobbled off with a leg injury on Saturday while defender Steve Morris is set to sit out a week after being charged by the match review panel. Shane Tuck was subbed off and has had a slow start to the year, while Luke McGuane had no impact and Ricky Petterd might be nervous after a couple of costly fumbles.

ON THE CUSP: Brad Helbig continuing his strong run of form with 27 disposals for Coburg and Aaron Edwards kicked seven goals. Interestingly, Nick Vlastuin was rested for the first quarter and Robbie Nahas for the whole first half – both performed well after taking the field – indicating the coaches might have had Friday's trip to Perth to play Fremantle in mind. The best news from the game was the successful return of Nathan Foley, who picked up 18 disposals in a half playing his first match since snapping his Achilles tendon in the middle of last year. After the game Foley said he pulled up well but would need a few more runs in the twos before a senior call-up.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: This shapes as a very big week for the Tigers, who need to bounce back from a disappointing showing on the big stage. Richmond couldn't find a way through Collingwood's intense full-ground pressure and it won't get any easier against the Dockers. The Tigers' record in Perth isn't good – three wins from their last 16 visits, in fact. Ryan Crowley has gone to Brett Deledio in recent meetings.

ST KILDA

INJURIES
Beau Maister (wrist) 4-6 weeks
Sean Dempster (hand) 1-2 weeks
James Gwilt (knee) 1-2 weeks
Jackson Ferguson (knee) 1-2 weeks
Adam Schneider (hamstring) 2-3 weeks
Jack Newnes (fractured jaw) 1 week
Daniel Markworth (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: Scans today revealed Maister has a fractured wrist and will be out of action for at least a month. Nathan Wright couldn't back up his impressive debut, picking up just three kicks against the Bombers while Tom Simpkin struggled against Essendon's tall forwards. Terry Milera was subbed off with eight touches (50 per cent efficiency) and no goals but might keep his spot if Stephen Milne accepts his one-match suspension.

ON THE CUSP: Justin Koschitzke should get a plane ticket to New Zealand after a month in the VFL, while Tom Lee could also come in after he was a late withdrawal on Saturday. There is some doubt over Arryn Siposs, who was pulled out at the last minute for the second time this season. Tom Hickey and exciting key forward Spencer White, who kicked three goals for Sandringham, are other tall options. Jason Blake could replace Simpkin. The Saints will fly to New Zealand tomorrow with a 25-man squad that will be cut to 22 on Wednesday.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Saints will at least have home ground advantage in Wellington for the first AFL match played overseas for premiership points. Saints fans should be advised to not look too closely at the fixture – the next obviously winnable game doesn't come until Round 9. Scott Watters has a huge headache trying to contain opposition tall forwards and will be hoping Sydney's Sam Reid doesn't find some form before Thursday.

Stephen Milne (right) gets involved in a stoush between Bomber Courtenay Dempsey (left) and Ahmed Saad. Source: Getty Images

SYDNEY

INJURIES
Alex Johnson (knee) season
Gary Rohan (leg) indefinite
Rhyce Shaw (abdominal strain) 1 week

ON THE BLOCK: Lewis Roberts-Thomson will miss 3-4 weeks after having arthroscopic surgery on his injured knee. LRT was cleared of structural damage. Mitch Morton was far from spectacular in his return to the senior list while Lewis Jetta's wretched run continued against the Cats.

ON THE CUSP: Andrejs Everitt looms as the likely replacement for LRT after booting three goals in the NEAFL last week. Tommy Walsh could sneak a spot after kicking 12 goals in two weeks in the reserves. Craig Bird and Jed Lamb are thereabouts.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: No doubt the Swans would have pencilled in the Cats as a win, a hard-fought one at that. It doesn't get any easier in Thursday's landmark Anzac Day match in Wellington, New Zealand.

WEST COAST

INJURIES
Andrew Embley (foot) 1 week
Nic Naitnui (groin) TBA
Mark Nicoski (hamstring) 5 weeks
Matthew Rosa (thigh) available
Brad Sheppard (shoulder) test
Beau Waters (calf) test
Sharrod Wellingham (ankle) 2-3 weeks
Darren Glass (shoulder) test

ON THE BLOCK: Bradd Dalziell came on as the substitute and failed to have an impact. That could work against him at selection on Thursday. Ashton Hams has lost his spark while Adam Selwood had a dog of a day chasing Blues livewire Chris Yarran. Skipper Darren Glass remains in doubt after playing with a bung shoulder at the weekend. Looked in pain last Friday. Doubtful.

ON THE CUSP: Beau Waters is desperately needed in defence and after two weeks on the sidelines should be ready to go. Matt Rosa had 18 disposals and 10 marks in the WAFL while speedster Murray Newman impressed with 27 possessions and five marks. Brad Sheppard sat out with a shoulder and must prove his fitness at training. Andrew Embley probably needs another week.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: As far as pre-season predictions go, West Coast wouldn't have expected its clash against Port Adelaide in Round 5 to be a must-win. But that's exactly what it's shaping up to be with the Eagles reeling in 12th spot on the ladder and just one win, over Melbourne, to their name. Port is up and about. Most importantly, it believes again. The Eagles on the other hand struggled to kick a winning score last week. Their forward thrusts stunk, with long bombs too close to goal bringing about eight rushed behinds. Expect Josh Kennedy and Jack Darling to strike back after quiet outings against the Blues.

DOWN . . . West Coast Eagles captain Darren Glass clutches at his shoulder in the Round 4 clash with the Carlton Blues at Patersons Stadium. Source: PerthNow

WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES

Nathan Hrovat (calf) test
Ryan Griffen (shoulder) 1-2 weeks
Lin Jong (leg) 6 weeks
Tory Dickson (ankle) 7 weeks
Easton Wood (hamstring) 5 weeks
Shaun Higgins (foot) season

ON THE BLOCK: Ryan Griffen will come out with a shoulder injury, and is set to miss at least one week in a blow for the Dogs. Daniel Giansiracusa was quiet, as was Liam Jones in conditions that didn't suit him, while Jason Tutt faded out of the match quickly.

ON THE CUSP: There will be some changes this week. Patrick Veszpremi put himself in contention, while Clay Smith made the trip to Adelaide as a spare and remains on the fringe.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: Kicking 4.4 in an afternoon is just not good enough. It was an awful performance against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium. And the news gets no better this week up against the in-form Cats at Etihad Stadium. The only good news against the Crows was the performance of Adam Cooney. He will need some help against the Cats. Who can fly the flag?

SUPERCOACH WATCH- That man Cooney popped up with 136 points against Adelaide. His price is up $70,100 this season. On that front he's no match for Brett Goodes (106), who has jumped a whopping $165,800.


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Griffen ruled out of Cats clash

Ryan Griffen has been ruled out with a shoulder injury. Picture: Simon Cross

WESTERN Bulldogs star Ryan Griffen has escaped serious injury but will still miss Saturday night's clash with Geelong.

It was feared Griffen may have fractured his AC joint after falling awkwardly in the final term of yesterday's loss to Adelaide.

But scans on his left shoulder cleared him of major damage although bruising around the area will see him sidelined for up to two weeks.

The loss of Griffen continues a horror injury run for the Dogs who last week lost Shaun Higgins (foot) for the season plus Robert Murphy (calf), Easton Wood (hamstring) and Tory Dickson (ankle).
 


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

LIVE: Sunday arvo football

Written By Unknown on Minggu, 21 April 2013 | 14.43

Giants star Tom Scully gets a kick away under pressure from Demon Luke Tapscott. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

NO CHANGES
SUBSTITUTES:

Aaron Davey (Melbourne), Anthony Miles (GWS)

Jason Porplyzia (Adelaide), Jake Stringer (Bulldogs)

Liam Anthony (Kangaroos), Marco Paparone (Lions)

Live HQ: Talk footy and SuperCoach from 4.40pm below...

THREE QUARTER-TIME - Adelaide 61 lead Western Bulldogs 15

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

Three quarter-time: Demons 70  trail Giants 89

Uh oh.

The Giants produced a strong quarter to lead the Demons by 19 at the final change.

Can the Demons hit back and steal this?

Half-time: Demons 49 trail Giants 56

A DETERMINED Giants outfit has arrested the lead from Melbourne in front of a small crowd at the MCG.

The Giants rallied in the term term turning the tables on the struggling Demons to lead by seven points at the main change.

Dylan Shiel was one of the big movers in the term taking his possession count to 18 while Tom Scully continues to dominate around the stoppages.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 21: Colin Sylvia of the Demons celebrates kicking a goal during the round four AFL match between the Melbourne Demons and the Greater Western Sydney Giants at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on April 21, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images


Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats
Melbourne recruit Shannon Byrnes was one of the few shining lights kicking all three of the Demons goals to keep his side within striking distance.

Demons hardnut Nathan Jones looked to injure his shoulder in a tackle midway through the term but played on.

Quarter-time: Demons 29 lead Giants 21

THE Giants started the better with Setanta O'hAilpin kicking the opening goal within a minute of play.

But it was Melbourne who responded dominating play out of the centre with the likes of Cameron Pedersen (two goals), Jeremy Howe (one goal) and Colin Sylvia (one goal) lining up to punish the Giants.

Nathan Jones is locked with Giants young gun Stephen Coniglio on 10 disposals.

O'hAilpin lifted late in the term taking two strong contested marks to take his tally to three goals at the first change.

Pre-game

A CLUB on its knees on and off the field Melbourne will be looking to go some of the way to erasing memories of a torrid week with a win over Greater Western Sydney.

But victory is far from assured for Mark Neeld's battered Demons after three rounds of pain.

Port Adelaide belted the Demons, while Essendon schooled them in a four-quarter demolition.

Jack Watts returns after a week on the outer, Mitch Clark should be nearing the top of his game while Jacks Grimes and Trengove have a point to prove.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats

Meanwhile, GWS coach Kevin Sheedy can sniff a third victory in Giants strips.

Jon Patton going down last week was a huge blow for the fledgling club, now looking at Jeremy Cameron to shoulder the bulk of the load inside the arc.

Callan Ward has been solid form while Tom Scully shows plenty of upside.


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Giants 'obliged' to look at Buddy

Greater Western Sydney boss Dave Matthews says the Giants are obliged to look at Hawthorn star Lance Franklin. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

GREATER Western Sydney has flagged plans to secure a key forward, not ruling out a move to lure Lance Franklin to the Harbour City.

Giants chief executive Dave Matthews said while the club had not made any decisions it would be "obliged" to look at Franklin.

The Hawk superstar has put off contract talks until the end of the season.

"Clearly when a player like Lance Franklin comes up you're obliged to have a look at it," Matthews told Channel Nine's Sunday Footy Show.

"We haven't made any set decision, we haven't put any offer on the table.

"We're certainly contemplating what the options might be."

The Giants are well placed in the forward line with young guns Jeremy Cameron, Kristian Jaksch and injured former top draft pick Jonathan Patton.


"I think every club in the competition would want Buddy Franklin.

"He's the best forward in the competition. He certainly sells a lot of merchandise and memberships for Hawthorn."

Last month Giants coach Kevin Sheedy urged the club to make a play for Franklin.

Greater Western Sydney could be in a position to offer Franklin $1.3-1.5m a year following NRL recruit Israel Folau's defection to rugby union.

Matthews said the Giants had used the past 18 months to identify gaps in the ranks following lucrative draft concessions and trades.

"Are the (gaps) in key defence? Is there a ruckman we need? Do we go for a key forward? All those things are being contemplated at the moment.

"Just because we haven't really secured a big name player so far… it doesn't mean we haven't been looking closely at it."


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Schoenmakers to undergo surgery

Ryan Schoenmakers writhes in pain after twisting his knee at Aurora Stadium. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: Herald Sun

Hawk Ryan Schoenmakers walks the boundary on crutches after the injury. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN has confirmed Ryan Schoenmakers will require a knee reconstruction and miss the rest of the season.

The defender went down early in yesterday's win over Fremantle at Aurora Stadium in Launceston.

Scans this morning revealed Schoenmakers had snapped his anterior cruciate ligament and strained the medial ligament in his right knee.

Hawthorn football operations manager James Fantasia said Schoenmakers remained upbeat despite the devastating news.

"While Ryan is naturally disappointed by the injury, we're certain he will approach his rehabilitation with the same professionalism, positivity and dedication he has displayed as a young player," Fantasia said.


Schoenmakers will consult with a specialist in coming days.


It's the Hawk's third serious knee injury behind Brendan Whitecross and Matthew Suckling, who went down at the same venue during the NAB Cup.

Schoenmaker's injury paves the way for Hawthorn recruit Brian Lake to make his debut after joining the club as a free agent last year.


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More

Dees rally to hammer Giants

Demon Michael Evans celebrates kicking one of his three last quarter goals against GWS. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: Herald Sun

IT was an AFL win as hard to fathom as the turmoil engulfing Melbourne.

But the Demons bought some breathing space for coach Mark Neeld and their under-siege club with a come-from-behind 41-point win over fellow strugglers GWS Giants at the MCG on Sunday.

Trailing by 19 points at three-quarter-time, the train wreck that many feared threatened for the Dees, who had been unconvincing and sporadic.

But after perhaps the worst period in the club's history, the Demons produced their best on-field quarter ever, booting 12.2 in the term to run out 22.12 (144) to 15.13 (103) winners.

After the off-season tanking investigation, three hammerings to start the season and being dragged into the Australian sports anti-doping investigation in the lead-up, the Demons started positively enough.


They looked the better side early, pushing out to a 16-point lead late in the first quarter with a far better tackling effort than in recent weeks.

But the Giants grafted their way into it as the Demons relaxed, kicking five successive goals in the second quarter to lead by 13 points before goalsneak Shannon Byrnes' third of the term reduced the halftime margin to seven.

The teams traded goals in a tense start to the third term with the Giants' noses in front, before Demons ruckman Mark Jamar grabbed a mark, goalled from an acute angle and levelled the scores.

Then the Giants lifted again, booting three successive goals to end the term including Setanta O'hAilpin's fifth for a 19-point lead at the final change.
 
But three goals in the term to Demons midfielder Michael Evans, and a huge clutch goal to Jeremy Howe from the right-hand boundary line were the platform for Melbourne to seal the most nerve-wracking of victories.

Howe's goal - with the Demons a point up and in desperate need of a spark - was the most critical of his four for the match.

Colin Garland, Nathan Jones and co-captain Jack Grimes were outstanding for the Demons as they poured on the goals from that point onwards.

O'hAilpin led GWS with five goals, while Adam Treloar had 30 touches.

While the Demons finally have their first win of the year, the Giants remain winless.


14.43 | 0 komentar | Read More
techieblogger.com Techie Blogger Techie Blogger