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AFL Central - June 2009

Round twelve preview: Richmond v West Coast

June 12th 2009 15:09
VENUE and TIME: Etihad Stadium, Saturday 13 June, 7.10pm (AEST)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 32, Richmond 12, West Coast 20

LAST TIME: Richmond 24.8 (152) def West Coast 11.9 (75), Round 15 2008 at Subiaco Oval

RECENT HISTORY: West Coast has won seven of its past eight against Richmond but only three of those wins have come in Melbourne.

FORM: Richmond started brightly in Terry Wallace’s farewell match but they fell away badly in the second half as the Western Bulldogs cruised to a convincing 68-point win. The Tigers are languishing in 15th place on the AFL ladder with just two wins for the season. West Coast pushed an undefeated Geelong side all the way last Sunday, eventually going down by 22 points. The Eagles have lost their past four matches and find themselves in 13th spot with a 3-8 win-loss record.


MEDICAL ROOM: The Tigers welcome back small forward Robin Nahas from a corked thigh but veteran Nathan Brown (groin) and midfielder Matthew White (hamstring) are at least two weeks away. Matthew Richardson is a chance to return in the latter stages of the season following hamstring tendon surgery. For the Eagles, veteran defender David Wirrapanda returns from a hamstring injury but Brent Staker (hand), Andrew Embley (ankle) and forward Ashley Hansen (groin) ) are unavailable. Highly-rated young midfielder Luke Shuey (fractured fibula) will miss eight weeks while rugged utility Beau Waters is out for the season with a dislocated elbow.

KEY MATCH-UPS: Daniel Jackson vs. Daniel Kerr

The return of Kerr from suspension is a major boost for the Eagles as he is able to not only win the football in close but also hurt sides with his creative run.


Limiting his influence on the contest will be a key for Richmond if they are going to starve West Coast’s forwards of quality supply.

Jackson has been a shining light for the Tigers in what has been a dismal season, taking on the competition’s premier midfielders and more than holding his own.

The impressive 23-year-old was his side’s best in the loss to the Bulldogs with 30 possessions, eight marks and eight tackles and will be given the task of running with Kerr on Saturday night.

Not only will Jackson apply relentless pressure but he will also try and hurt Kerr going the other way.

Adam Selwood vs. Brett Deledio

Deledio struggled to have his usual impact against the Bulldogs, managing just 13 possessions - well down on his season average of 22 disposals per game.

When Deledio is at his damaging best he is able to break a game open with his run and carry.

The Tigers will need Deledio to impose himself on the contest if they are going to have any chance of recording just their third win of the season.

However, he faces a tough night at the office with the in-form Selwood expected to be his opponent.

Selwood, who is West Coast’s best stopper in the midfield, is also highly effective at winning his fair share of the football - he has averaged just under 24 possessions per game in 2009.

It is vital for Richmond that Deledio works hard going both ways.

Chris Newman vs. Mark LeCras

LeCras had one of his quietest games of the season last weekend, managing just one goal in the loss to the Cats.

West Coast will need him to fire if they are going to record their first win away from home in more than 18 months.

Newman has the ability to match LeCras in the air and at ground level and looms as the obvious candidate to match-up on the dangerous Eagles forward who has the uncanny ability to create something out of nothing.

The Eagles had their chances last weekend to cause a massive upset but as has been the case for most of the season they let themselves down with their foot skills.

If LeCras is going to have any hope of having an impact he will need his midfield to be clean with their use of the football going forward.

Tyson Stenglein vs. Mitch Morton

Morton started well against the Dogs, booting three goals in the first term but he had no impact on the scoreboard after quarter-time.

Richmond will need Morton to put in a four-quarter performance if they are going to have any chance of kicking a winning score.

Stenglein played his best game for the season last weekend, keeping Geelong star Steve Johnson to just one goal and will most likely be given first crack at the former Eagle.

In last weekend’s loss to the Bulldogs the Tigers had more than half of their possessions in handballs - they will need to get the football quickly into the forward line rather than overuse it by hand to give Morton a chance of having an influence on the outcome of the contest as they simply don’t have the skills to play a possession brand of football for the whole night.

VERDICT: Teams who sack their coach during the season have a habit of winning for their new coach the next week so that is one thing in Richmond’s favour but the Tigers struggle to play four quarters of consistent football. West Coast showed plenty of endeavour against Geelong and if they play with the same level of intensity on Saturday night they should secure the four premiership points with the class of in-form ruckman Dean Cox and Kerr likely to be the difference in what promises to be a tight struggle between two sides desperate for a win. Eagles by 10 points.

RICHMOND v WEST COAST
RICHMOND
B: Chris Newman, Kelvin Moore, Dean Polo
HB: Shane Edwards, Luke McGuane, Will Thursfield
C: Andrew Collins, Shane Tuck, Brett Deledio
HF: Richard Tambling, Jack Riewoldt, Ben Cousins
F: Adam Pattison, Mitch Morton, Robin Nahas
Foll: Angus Graham, Daniel Jackson, Nathan Foley
I/C: Trent Cotchin, Tom Hislop, Alex Rance, Tyrone Vickery
Emg: Jake King, Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls, Adam Thomson

In: Vickery, Edwards, Nahas, Graham, Hislop
Out: Joel Bowden, Troy Simmonds, Mark Coughlan, Jordan McMahon, Kayne Pettifer

New: Tyrone Vickery (Sandringham)

WEST COAST
B: Matt Spangher, Darren Glass, David Wirrpanda
HB: Adam Selwood, Eric Mackenzie, Shannon Hurn
C: Mark Nicoski, Daniel Kerr, Matt Rosa
HF: Chris Masten, Josh Kennedy, Scott Selwood
F: Nic Naitanui, Quinten Lynch, Mark LeCras
Foll: Dean Cox, Matt Priddis, Brad Ebert
I/C: Mitch Brown , Jamie McNamara, Tyson Stenglein, Tom Swift
Emg: Chad Fletcher, Tim Houlihan, Beau Wilkes

In: Kerr, Naitanui,Wirrpanda
Out: Andrew Embley (ankle), Adam Hunter (shoulder), Ben McKinley

New: Nic Naitanui (Swan Districts)

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Round twelve preview: Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide

June 12th 2009 14:57
VENUE and TIME: TIO Stadium, Saturday 13 June, 7.10pm (AEST)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 17, Western Bulldogs 6, Port Adelaide 11

LAST TIME: Western Bulldogs 20.15 (135) def Port Adelaide 11.15 (81), Round 14 2008 at TIO Stadium

RECENT HISTORY: The Western Bulldogs have won three of their past four against Port Adelaide.

FORM: The Western Bulldogs have won four of their past five to move to third spot on the AFL ladder with a 7-4 win-loss record. Port Adelaide snapped a two-game losing streak with a hard-fought 24-point win over Fremantle at AAMI Stadium last Saturday night. The Power have won six of their first 11 matches and are only just inside the top eight.

MEDICAL ROOM: The Bulldogs welcome back classy forward Robert Murphy from a hamstring injury but they are still without defender Tom Williams who is the only notable absentee with a foot complaint. For Port, dangerous forward Daniel Motlop returns from an ankle injury while Robert Gray will also play against the Dogs after being a late withdrawal from the clash against the Dockers with a thigh injury. Alipate Carlile (virus) will miss while star utility Chad Cornes (4-6 weeks), Shaun Burgoyne (3-4) and Travis Boak (4-6) are out with knee injuries.

KEY MATCH-UPS: Liam Picken vs. Danyle Pearce

Pearce played a key role in the win over the Dockers, helping himself to 22 possessions, one goal and seven inside 50’s.

When the 2006 NAB Rising Star winner is up and firing the Power are a much better side.

Shutting down his run and carry will be a key for the Bulldogs if they are going to contain Port Adelaide’s multi pronged attack.

Picken claimed the scalp of Richmond young gun Brett Deledio for the second time this season last weekend and looms as the obvious candidate to tag the dangerous Pearce.

Expect Picken to make Pearce earn every possession and push forward at every available opportunity and try and hurt him on the scoreboard.

Kane Cornes vs. Adam Cooney

Cooney has returned to his best after a sluggish start to the season and was best afield against the Tigers with a game-high 33 possessions and one goal.

The last time these two sides met in round 14 last year Cooney collected 33 touches.

If the Power is going to have any hope of keeping the Bulldogs’ mid-sized forwards quiet they will need to quell the influence of Cooney who is damaging with his ability to break the lines.

Cornes is Port’s best stopper in the midfield and will be given the task of running with Cooney in what shapes as being a pivotal duel in determining the outcome of this match.

Not only is Cornes highly effective at blanketing some of the premier midfielders in the competition he is also capable of winning his fair share of the football - he racked up a game-high 34 possessions against the Dockers and has averaged 28 disposals in his past three games.

The Power will need Cornes to apply relentless pressure all night and also test out the defensive side of Cooney’s game.

Brian Lake vs. Warren Tredrea

Tredrea struggled against Fremantle, managing just seven possessions and one goal.

Port will need him to fire if they are going to have any chance of kicking a big enough score to overcome a Bulldogs side that has the second best attack in the AFL.

Lake has done a good job on Tredrea in the past and will line-up on the former Port skipper once again in what will be yet another crucial match-up.

If Tredrea is going to have any hope of having an impact he will need his midfield to be smart with their use of the football going forward otherwise the Power will be punished on the rebound by the Dogs.

Troy Chaplin vs. Brad Johnson

Johnson looms as a danger man for the Port given that he has booted 16 goals in his past four matches against the Power.

Chaplin, who kept Fremantle skipper Matthew Pavlich relatively quiet last weekend, has the ability to match Johnson in the air and also when the football hits the deck, so you would expect him to be given first crack at the 335-game veteran.

The Port defender will need to be switched on defensively for the full four quarters and not give Johnson any time or space in which to work in as he is still capable of turning a game on its head with a quick two to three goal burst.

The Power is ranked 14th in the AFL for tackles per game - they will need to lift their intensity otherwise the much-vaunted Bulldogs on-ball division will be able to run riot and deliver the football cleanly inside 50 to the likes of Johnson.

VERDICT: Port Adelaide may have secured the four premiership points against Fremantle but they were far from convincing and they will need to take their game to another level if they are going to have any hope of beating a Western Bulldogs side that has hit its straps. Port has the edge in the ruck but the Bulldogs have more class through the middle and they should provide their multitude of dangerous mid-sized forwards with plenty of quality supply. Bulldogs by 37 points.

WESTERN BULLDOGS v PORT ADELAIDE
WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: Jarrod Harbrow, Brian Lake, Ryan Hargrave
HB: Lindsay Gilbee, Dale Morris, Liam Picken
C: Nathan Eagleton, Matthew Boyd, Daniel Cross
HF: Shaun Higgins, Mitch Hahn, Brad Johnson
F: Jason Akermanis, Will Minson, Scott Welsh
Foll: Ben Hudson, Adam Cooney, Ryan Griffen
I/C: Daniel Giansiracusa, Josh Hill, Robert Murphy, Callan Ward
Emg: Brennan Stack, Tim Callan, Stephen Tiller

In: Murphy, Welsh
Out: Brennan Stack, Stephen Tiller

PORT ADELAIDE
B: Michael Pettigrew, Toby Thurstans, Jacob Surjan
HB: Steven Salopek, Troy Chaplin, Peter Burgoyne
C: Danny Meyer, Domenic Cassisi, Tom Logan
HF: Robert Gray, Warren Tredrea, David Rodan
F: Brett Ebert, Brendon Lade, Daniel Motlop
Foll: Dean Brogan, Kane Cornes, Danyle Pearce
I/C: Marlon Motlop, Josh Carr, Matthew Westhoff, Justin Westhoff
Emg: Nick Lower, Jason Davenport, Matthew Broadbent

In: Daniel Motlop, Robbie Gray, Danny Meyer
Out: Travis Boak (knee), Alipate Carlile (virus), Nick Lower

New: Danny Meyer (Richmond)


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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


North breaks 30,000 members barrier

June 12th 2009 13:28
NORTH MELBOURNE has broken the 30,000 membership barrier for the second consecutive year.

The current total of 30,231 is the second-highest membership figure in club history after the 2008 tally of 34,342.

Kangaroos chairman James Brayshaw said the figure proves the club has a strong and sustainable future.

"We thank the Kangaroos faithful for their support and in many ways feel this figure vindicates our decision to stay in Melbourne. While we have a lot of work to do, this proves we are heading in the right direction," Brayshaw said.

"We made a call to arms and North Melbourne people have responded resoundingly."

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Kangaroos
   


Saints down Blues

June 12th 2009 13:15
ST KILDA has maintained its dominance over Carlton with a hard-fought nine-point win at Etihad Stadium on Friday night.

The Saints got the early jump and answered every challenge thrown at them by the brave Blues, eventually prevailing 16.8 (104) to 14.11 (95) in a high-quality contest.

The victory was St Kilda’s 12th straight over Carlton and ensures they go into the mid-season break on the top of the AFL ladder.

Leigh Montagna starred in the middle with a game-high 36 possessions, 11 marks and one goal while Nick Dal Santo was equally as damaging with 34 touches and one goal.

Lenny Hayes continued his brilliant form with 30 disposals while Saints skipper Nick Riewoldt was influential with 17 touches, 10 marks and five goals.

Max Hudghton kept Blues spearhead Brendan Fevola to just two majors while Brendon Goddard was a busy contributor with 25 possessions.

For the Blues, Shaun Grigg showed he is a player of the future with a team-high 28 disposals and one goal while Bryce Gibbs and Kade Simpson were also prolific.

Paul Bower was busy in defence with 26 touches while Aaron Joseph kept the dangerous Stephen Milne to just seven possessions and one goal.

Carlton skipper Chris Judd battled hard all night and showed plenty of courage to return from a broken nose which required running repairs during the last term.

St Kilda jumped out of the blocks in the opening stanza, moving the football quickly through the middle of the ground as they slammed on five unanswered goals in a stunning nine-minute burst.

Carlton had to wait until the 20-minute mark for their first major with Eddie Betts snapping truly but the Saints hit back with two of the last four goals of the term to go into the first change with a handy 24-point buffer.

The margin blew out to 32 points at the early in the second term thanks to goals from Jason Gram and Justin Koschitzke.

The Saints looked set to run away with the contest but the Blues lifted their rating and started to win more of the football at the stoppages as they slammed on the last five goals of the first half to close to within three points at the main break.

As they did in the first term, St Kilda came out firing in the third quarter, booting four unanswered goals - three of which were from outside 50 - to skip out to a 24-point lead.

Carlton responded with two late goals but the last of them was fortuitous.

Luke Ball failed to go through the interchange gate correctly, gifting a free kick, 50m penalty and goal to Fevola on the three quarter-time siren to reduce the deficit to just 13 points.

St Kilda got the crucial first goal of the final stanza through Dal Santo but the Blues refused to give in and responded with majors from Betts and Fevola.

A brilliant running goal from Montagna gave the Saints some breathing space before Setanta o’hAilpin weaved through a pair of defenders and kicked truly.

Ryan Houlihan had a chance to put Carlton in front but his set shot sprayed wide.

It proved to be a costly miss with Zac Dawson kicking just the second goal of his career to seal the win for the Saints.

ST KILDA 7.2, 9.5, 13.7, 16.8 (104 )
CARLTON 3.2, 9.2, 11.6, 14.11 (95)
GOALS: St Kilda: Riewoldt 5, Schneider 2, Gram 2, McQualter, Milne, Goddard, Dal Santo, Montagna, Dawson
Carlton: Murphy 2, Bannister 2, Betts 2, Fevola 2, Garlett, Simpson, Carrazzo, Hampson, Grigg,O’hAilpin
BEST: St Kilda: Riewoldt, Dal Santo, Montagna, Hudghton, Hayes, Goddard
Carlton: Grigg, Gibbs, Simpson, O’hAilpin, Jamison, Carrazzo, Judd, Browne Joseph
INJURIES: St Kilda:
Carlton: Judd (nose),
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Carlton: Bret Thornton (hamstring) replaced by Mark Austin
UMPIRES: Vozzo McBurney Pannell
CROWD: 50,820 at Etihad Stadium

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


AFL Teams: Round Twelve

June 12th 2009 07:21
2009 Toyota AFL Premiership Season

ROUND TWELVE (Week one, All times local)

Friday June 12
Carlton v St Kilda at Etihad Stadium, 7.40pm

Saturday June 13
Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide at TIO Stadium, 6.40pm
Richmond v West Coast at Etihad Stadium, 7.10pm

Sunday June 14
Hawthorn v Brisbane Lions at Aurora Stadium, 1.10pm
Adelaide v North Melbourne at AAMI Stadium, 4.10pm

CARLTON v ST KILDA
CARLTON
B: Dennis Armfield , Bret Thornton, Steven Browne
HB: Paul Bower, Michael Jamison, Nick Stevens
C: Kade Simpson, Bryce Gibbs, Andrew Carrazzo
HF: Marc Murphy, Setanta O’hAilpin, Ryan Houlihan
F: Eddie Betts, Brendan Fevola, Shaun Hampson
Foll: Matthew Kreuzer, Chris Judd, Aaron Joseph
I/C: Jordan Bannister, Jeff Garlett, Shaun Grigg, Heath Scotland
Emg: Mark Austin, Brad Fisher, Mitch Robinson

In: Bannister
Out: Brad Fisher

ST KILDA
B: Jason Blake, Max Hudghton, Zac Dawson
HB: Steven Baker, Sam Fisher, Brendon Goddard
C: Farren Ray, Luke Ball, Nick Dal Santo
HF: Jason Gram, Nick Riewoldt, Adam Schneider
F: Lenny Hayes, Justin Koschitzke, Stephen Milne
Foll: Michael Gardiner, Clint Jones, Leigh Montagna
I/C: Jarryn Geary, Sam Gilbert, Ben McEvoy, Andrew McQualter
Emg: Raphael Clarke, David Armitage, James Gwilt

In: Gilbert, Gardiner, Milne
Out: Steven King (susp), Raphael Clarke, James Gwilt

WESTERN BULLDOGS v PORT ADELAIDE
WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: Jarrod Harbrow, Brian Lake, Ryan Hargrave
HB: Lindsay Gilbee, Dale Morris, Liam Picken
C: Nathan Eagleton, Matthew Boyd, Daniel Cross
HF: Shaun Higgins, Mitch Hahn, Brad Johnson
F: Jason Akermanis, Will Minson, Scott Welsh
Foll: Ben Hudson, Adam Cooney, Ryan Griffen
I/C: Daniel Giansiracusa, Josh Hill, Robert Murphy, Callan Ward
Emg: Brennan Stack, Tim Callan, Stephen Tiller

In: Murphy, Welsh
Out: Brennan Stack, Stephen Tiller

PORT ADELAIDE
B: Michael Pettigrew, Toby Thurstans, Jacob Surjan
HB: Steven Salopek, Troy Chaplin, Peter Burgoyne
C: Danny Meyer, Dom Cassisi, Tom Logan
HF: Robert Gray, Warren Tredrea, David Rodan
F: Brett Ebert, Brendon Lade, Daniel Motlop
Foll: Dean Brogan, Kane Cornes, Danyle Pearce
I/C: Marlon Motlop, Josh Carr, Matthew Westhoff, Justin Westhoff
Emg: Nick Lower, Jason Davenport, Matthew Broadbent

In: Daniel Motlop, Robbie Gray, Danny Meyer
Out: Travis Boak (knee), Alipate Carlile (virus), Nick Lower

New: Danny Meyer (Richmond)

RICHMOND v WEST COAST
RICHMOND
B: Chris Newman, Kelvin Moore, Dean Polo
HB: Shane Edwards, Luke McGuane, Will Thursfield
C: Andrew Collins, Shane Tuck, Brett Deledio
HF: Richard Tambling, Jack Riewoldt, Ben Cousins
F: Adam Pattison, Mitch Morton, Robin Nahas
Foll: Angus Graham, Daniel Jackson, Nathan Foley
I/C: Trent Cotchin, Tom Hislop, Alex Rance, Tyrone Vickery
Emg: Jake King, Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls, Adam Thomson

In: Vickery, Edwards, Nahas, Graham, Hislop
Out: Joel Bowden, Troy Simmonds, Mark Coughlan, Jordan McMahon, Kayne Pettifer

New: Tyrone Vickery (Sandringham)

WEST COAST
B: Matt Spangher, Darren Glass, David Wirrpanda
HB: Adam Selwood, Eric Mackenzie, Shannon Hurn
C: Mark Nicoski, Daniel Kerr, Matt Rosa
HF: Chris Masten, Josh Kennedy, Scott Selwood
F: Nic Naitanui, Quinten Lynch, Mark LeCras
Foll: Dean Cox, Matt Priddis, Brad Ebert
I/C: Mitch Brown , Jamie McNamara, Tyson Stenglein, Tom Swift
Emg: Chad Fletcher, Tim Houlihan, Beau Wilkes

In: Kerr, Naitanui,Wirrpanda
Out: Andrew Embley (ankle), Adam Hunter (shoulder), Ben McKinley

New: Nic Naitanui (Swan Districts)

HAWTHORN v BRISBANE LIONS
HAWTHORN
B: Brent Guerra, Robert Campbell, Thomas Murphy
HB: Beau Muston, Luke Hodge, Grant Birchall
C: Jordan Lewis, Sam Mitchell, Chance Bateman
HF: Ben McGlynn, Lance Franklin, Campbell Brown
F: Michael Osborne, Jarryd Roughead, Mark Williams
Foll: Simon Taylor, Brad Sewell, Xavier Ellis
I/C (from): Stuart Dew, Brent Renouf, Beau Dowler, Josh Kennedy, Jarryd Morton, Ryan Schoenmakers, Travis Tuck

In: Brown, Dowler, Kennedy, Morton, Murphy
Out: Cyril Rioli (hamstring), Liam Shiels (illness)

BRISBANE LIONS
B: Ashley McGrath, Tim Notting, Jed Adcock
HB: Sam Sheldon, Lachlan Henderson, Joel Macdonald
C: Albert Proud, Simon Black, Daniel Rich
HF: Michael Rischitelli, Jonathan Brown, James Polkinghorne
F: Rhan Hooper, Daniel Bradshaw, Luke Power
Foll: Mitch Clark, Cheynee Stiller, Justin Sherman
I/C: Jared Brennan, Scott Harding, Jason Roe, Troy Selwood
Emg: Aaron Cornelius, Jack Redden, Tom Rockliff

In: Troy Selwood, Jason Rose
Out: Josh Drummond (calf), Travis Johnstone (back)

ADELAIDE v NORTH MELBOURNE
ADELAIDE
B: Graham Johncock, Ben Rutten, Andy Otten
HB: Nathan van Berlo, Nathan Bock, Andrew McLeod
C: Patrick Dangerfield, Michael Doughty, David Mackay
HF: Chris Knights, Scott Stevens, Richard Douglas
F: Jason Porplyzia, Kurt Tippett, Bernie Vince
Foll: Ivan Maric, Tyson Edwards, Scott Thompson
I/C: Brad Moran, Brent Reilly, Taylor Walker, Brad Symes
Emg: James Sellar, Jared Petrenko, Tony Armstrong

In: Reilly
Out: Simon Goodwin (knee)

NORTH MELBOURNE
B: Lachie Hansen, Scott Thompson, Josh Gibson
HB: Scott McMahon, Nathan Grima, Brady Rawlings
C: Gavin Urquhart, Michael Firrito, Ben Ross
HF: Jack Ziebell, Drew Petrie, Cruize Garlett
F: Corey Jones, Aaron Edwards, Lindsay Thomas
Foll: Hamish McIntosh, Adam Simpson, Andrew Swallow
I/C: Sam Power, Daniel Pratt, David Hale, Leigh Harding
Emg: Daniel Harris, Levi Greenwood, Michael Wundke

In: Hansen, Ziebell, Jones, Garlett
Out: Matt Campbell (hamstring), Daniel Wells (hip/groin), Sam Wright (knee), Ben Warren (cheekbone)

New: Cruize Garlett (Perth)
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Round twelve preview: Carlton v St Kilda

June 11th 2009 14:32
VENUE and TIME: Etihad Stadium, Friday 12 June, 7.40pm (AEST)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 204, Carlton 156, St Kilda 46, Draws: 2

LAST TIME: St Kilda 18.11 (119) def Carlton 12.15 (87), Round 15 2008 at the MCG

RECENT HISTORY: St Kilda has won its past 11 against Carlton by an average of 53 points.

FORM: Carlton has won its past two against West Coast and Brisbane to move to fourth spot on the AFL ladder with a 6-5 win-loss record. St Kilda remains on top of the ladder undefeated after recording a come-from-behind 46-point win over North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium last Saturday.

MEDICAL ROOM: Carlton will be without Simon Wiggins (hamstring) for at least another week while ruckmen Robbie Warnock and Sam Jacobs, who both have foot injuries, are two and four weeks away respectively. Andrew Walker is a chance to return from a shoulder injury in round 18 while utility Jarrad Waite (knee) will miss the remainder of the year. For the Saints, Sam Gilbert and small forward Stephen Milne return from ankle and knee injuries respectively but Jarryd Allen (hip) remains on the sidelines while Xavier Clarke (knee) is out for the season.

KEY MATCH-UPS: Clinton Jones vs. Chris Judd

Judd was one of his side’s best against the Lions with a team-high 28 possessions, one goal and seven inside 50’s.

The 2004 Brownlow medallist is damaging with his ability to win the football at close quarters, break the lines and deliver it cleanly inside 50.

Limiting his influence in the middle will be a key for St Kilda if they are going to contain a Carlton side that has the fourth most potent forward line in the competition.

Jones has claimed some big scalps so far this season and will be given the task of tagging Judd in what shapes as being a pivotal duel in determining the outcome of this match.

St Kilda will need Jones to deny Judd any time or space at the stoppages otherwise he will continually win the football in close and help get his side’s running game going.

Jones, who has averaged just under 19 disposals per game in 2009, will also need to be proactive and win his fair share of the football in order to make Judd accountable otherwise the former West Coast skipper will be able to dictate terms and dominate.

Aaron Joseph vs. Nick Dal Santo

Dal Santo continued his brilliant start to the season with 26 disposals, one goal and six inside 50’s against North Melbourne.

The 25-year-old has continually set up scoring opportunities for his teammates in 2009 with his clean use of the football.

If the Blues are going to have any hope of quelling the influence of St Kilda’s twin towers in Nick Riewoldt and Justin Koschitzke they will need to keep Dal Santo quiet.

Expect Joseph, who more than held his own against West Coast star Daniel Kerr before keeping Brisbane’s Rhan Hooper to just four possessions last Saturday night, to be given the job of running with Dal Santo.

Joseph is a traditional tagger in the sense that he isn’t overly concerned with winning the football so the Saints will need to block for Dal Santo if he is going to have any hope of breaking what is likely to be a tight tag.

Max Hudghton vs. Brendan Fevola

Fevola starred against Brisbane, booting eight goals to help lift his side to a valuable six-point victory.

The enigmatic forward has booted 14 goals in his past two matches and the Blues will need him to fire once again on Friday night if they are going to have any chance of recording a rare win against St Kilda.

Hudghton has performed well on Fevola in the past and will be given first crack at the Carlton star again on Friday night.

If Fevola is going to have any hope of winning his duel with Hudghton he will need his teammates to move the football quickly through the corridor otherwise the Saints will be able to push numbers back and continually rebound the football out of defensive 50.

Michael Jamison vs. Justin Koschitzke

Koschitzke played a key role in the win over the Kangaroos, booting a career-best six goals.

The 129-gamer has now kicked 27 goals in 10 games and could well kick yet another bag against a relatively inexperienced Carlton backline.

Jamison, who is usually given a job on one of the opposition’s most dangerous key forwards, has shown some promising signs in his 30-game career and looms as the obvious candidate to line-up on Koschitzke.

The 22-year-old will need his midfield to get on top at the stoppages and also apply relentless pressure when they don’t have the football otherwise Koschitzke will receive enough quality supply to have a meaningful impact.

VERDICT: Carlton has the class in the midfield to match St Kilda and if they break even in the middle they are a chance of causing an upset. The Blues will enjoy brief periods of dominance but the ladder leaders simply have too many in-form players for Brett Ratten’s men to contain and should get up with their multiple avenues to goal likely to be the difference in what shapes as being an engrossing contest. Saints by 17 points.

CARLTON v ST KILDA
Carlton
B: Dennis Armfield , Bret Thornton, Steven Browne
HB: Paul Bower, Michael Jamison, Nick Stevens
C: Kade Simpson, Bryce Gibbs, Andrew Carrazzo
HF: Marc Murphy, Setanta O’hAilpin, Ryan Houlihan
F: Eddie Betts, Brendan Fevola, Shaun Hampson
Foll: Matthew Kreuzer, Chris Judd, Aaron Joseph
I/C: Jordan Bannister, Jeff Garlett, Shaun Grigg, Heath Scotland
Emg: Mark Austin, Brad Fisher, Mitch Robinson

In: Bannister
Out: Brad Fisher

St Kilda
B: Jason Blake, Max Hudghton, Zac Dawson
HB: Steven Baker, Sam Fisher, Brendon Goddard
C: Farren Ray, Luke Ball, Nick Dal Santo
HF: Jason Gram, Nick Riewoldt, Adam Schneider
F: Lenny Hayes, Justin Koschitzke, Stephen Milne
Foll: Michael Gardiner, Clint Jones, Leigh Montagna
I/C: Jarryn Geary, Sam Gilbert, Ben McEvoy, Andrew McQualter
Emg: Raphael Clarke, David Armitage, James Gwilt

In: Gilbert, Gardiner, Milne
Out: Steven King (susp), Raphael Clarke, James Gwilt


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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Ryder re-signs

June 11th 2009 01:03
ESSENDON big man Patrick Ryder has signed a new three-year deal which will see him remain with the club until at least the end of the 2012 season.

Ryder has come of age since being forced to become the Bombers' number one ruckman after David Hille went down with a season-ending knee injury in round five, averaging 23 hit outs a game.

The 21-year-old, who was taken with pick seven in the 2005 national draft, has played 63 games and kicked 15 goals since making his AFL debut in 2006.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Essendon Bombers
   


Ryder escapes suspension

June 9th 2009 11:22
ESSENDON is breathing a sigh of relief after big man Patrick Ryder was cleared of engaging in rough conduct at the AFL Tribunal on Tuesday night.

The loss of Ryder would have been disastrous for the Bombers who are already without ruckmen David Hille, Jason Laycock and Tom Bellchambers who are sidelined with long-term injuries.

Ryder was contesting a one-match ban for a bump on Adelaide youngster Patrick Dangerfield and faced a two-match suspension if found guilty.

The Dons successfully argued that the force applied when shepherding Dangerfield was not unreasonable in the circumstances and that any contact to the head was accidental.

Meanwhile, Port Adelaide's Toby Thurstans failed to overturn a fine for making negligent contact with an umpire and will have to pay $2600.

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Essendon Bombers
   


Johnson calls it quits

June 9th 2009 09:52
FORMER Richmond skipper Kane Johnson has announced his retirement from AFL football effective immediately.

Johnson played 220 games for Adelaide and was a part of their premiership sides in 1997 and '98 before joining the Tigers in 2003 where he played 120 matches.

He captained Richmond for 77 games before stepping down at the end of last season.

The 31-year-old, who has battled with a persistent knee injury all year, said the timing was right for him to call it a day.

"I dearly would have loved to play until the end of the year but my ongoing issues with my knee have forced me to reassess the situation and make the decision earlier than expected," Johnson said

"It is the start of a new era at the club and as I had no intention of playing on next year, the timing was right to step aside and play some of the new generation of players."

"I would like to take the opportunity to thank both the Adelaide and Richmond Football Clubs for giving me the opportunity to play for two great clubs. I have met some outstanding people over the journey and really appreciate the terrific support they have shown me."

Richmond chief executive Steven Wright said Johnson would move into a development role at the club.

Meanwhile, the club announced former Brisbane premiership player Craig McRae would takeover from Jade Rawlings at VFL affiliate Coburg.

Rawlings will be caretaker coach at the Tigers for the remainder of the season.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Richmond Tigers
   


Goodwin out for just one game

June 9th 2009 07:37
ADELAIDE has received some good news with skipper Simon Goodwin's knee injury not as bad as first thought.

Goodwin strained his medial ligament in the Crows' 16-point win over Essendon at Etihad Stadium on Sunday but has been cleared of any structural damage and will only miss one game due to the extra recovery time which comes with the split round.

Brent Reilly is likely to come into the side to replace Goodwin for the clash against North Melbourne at AAMI Stadium on Sunday after being best afield for Sturt against Central District in the SANFL on Monday

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Adelaide Crows
   


Dick earns nomination

June 9th 2009 03:50
COLLINGWOOD youngster Brad Dick has been rewarded for his impressive performance against Melbourne in the annual Queen's Birthday clash at the MCG with the round 11 NAB Rising Star nomination.

Dick booted a career-best five goals in the Magpies' 66-point win over the Demons.

The promising 20-year-old has kicked nine goals and averaged 19 disposals per game since coming back into the side in round nine.

Dick said he is loving being a part of the side after missing all of last year with a serious knee injury sustained during the pre-season.

"When I did my knee halfway through the year (last year) I'd had enough," Dick said.

"I just got a bit down and didn't even want to be here because I was sick of not playing football but coming out with the boys and wearing the Collingwood jumper is just an amazing feeling and I love it."

Dick is Collingwood's second Rising Star nominee of the season following Jaxson Barham's nomination in round four.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Collingwood Magpies
   


King to miss four matches

June 9th 2009 02:33
ST KILDA ruckman Steven King will miss the next four matches after deciding to accept his suspension for his off-the-ball clash with North Melbourne midfielder Sam Power.

King would have been risking a six-match ban had he elected to challenge his charge of engaging in rough conduct at the AFL tribunal on Tuesday night.

The tribunal will hear two cases with Port Adelaide defender Toby Thurstans to challenge a fine for making negligent contact with a field umpire while Essendon ruckman Patrick Ryder will contest a charge of engaging in rough conduct against Adelaide youngster Patrick Dangerfield.

Thurstans was offered a $1950 fine which could be increased to $2600.

Ryder could have accepted a one-match ban but could now also miss the round 13 clash against arch-rivals Carlton if suspended.

The Bombers can't afford to lose Ryder given that their other ruckmen in David Hille, Jason Laycock and Tom Bellchambers are on the sidelines with long-term injuries.

Meanwhile, Port's Nick Lower accepted a reprimand and 93.75 demerit points towards for striking Fremantle midfielder Paul Haselby.

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Hall accepts blame for loss

June 9th 2009 00:47
SYDNEY forward Barry Hall has accepted the blame for his side's 11-point loss to Hawthorn at the MCG on Sunday.

The Swans were in attack when Hawthorn's Jarryd Roughead marked the football before Hall then gave away the first 50-metre penalty for arguing with the umpire. He then pulled Roughead down to the ground before elbowing Sam Mitchell in the throat, resulting in another two penalties which gave the Hawks the easiest of goals and all the momentum in the final term.

Speaking on OneHD's One Week at a Time on Monday night, Hall said his actions were 'unacceptable'.

"It's disappointing ... You can argue about the first 50, the second 50 and all that, but it's still unacceptable and the momentum of the game, it changed it totally so I've got to wear that," Hall said.

"We had all the momentum, I think we were ahead at that stage and it turned the game totally ... If another player from my side did that I'd be filthy with them."

"The leadership group spoke up, they were disappointed and I knew that, I've got to cop that on the chin."

The 32-year-old, who last year copped a seven-week suspension for striking Eagle Brent Staker, said he is now focused on curbing his aggressive ways.

"The thing going for me now is that I've got 11 weeks to show the football club that I can put stuff like this behind me," he said.

"The only thing I can do and the only thing in my control is the next 11 weeks ... This could change things dramatically, it could do downhill from here but I don't think that'll be the case."

Hall also said he had apologised to his teammates for his latest indiscretion and confirmed the club's leadership group did not want to impose a suspension.



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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Sydney Swans
   


Pies demolish Dees

June 8th 2009 08:38
COLLINGWOOD has moved into the top eight with a 66-point demolition of Melbourne in the annual Queen's Birthday clash at the MCG on Monday.

The Magpies set up their third straight win and sixth of the season with eight unanswered goals either side of quarter-time before cruising to a convincing 19.12 (126) to 8.12 (60) victory.

The Pies are now in fifth spot and well placed to challenge for a top-four berth while the Demons have lost their past seven and are languishing in bottom place with just one win for the season.

It was a bitterly disappointing performance from Melbourne in what is their biggest game of the year and on a day which saw the unveiling of last year’s number one draft pick Jack Watts.

Scott Pendlebury starred with a game-high 39 possessions, 11 marks and one goal while Dane Swan continued his brilliant form with 32 disposals.

Alan Didak was all class with 33 touches and two goals while Brad Dick kicked a career-best five majors.

Tarkyn Lockyer and John Anthony chimed in with three goals apiece while Leon Davis was a busy contributor with 25 touches.

Colin Sylvia was Melbourne’s best with a team-high 32 disposals, 11 marks and three goals while Nathan Jones, Brent Moloney and Aaron Davey also won plenty of the football.

Watts showed some promising signs early but faded as the game wore on, finishing the match with eight possessions and one behind.

Melbourne was competitive for the first 15 minutes of the opening term, moving the football through the corridor at every available opportunity but they failed to translate their hard work around the ground onto the scoreboard.

They were made to pay as the Magpies slammed on six goals in a stunning 14-minute burst to open up a commanding 42-point lead at the first change.

The Demons lack of pressure during that period was below AFL standard and they copped a spray from coach Dean Bailey at quarter-time.

Melbourne showed more spirit in the second term and booted five goals to three to win the quarter but three of them came directly from Collingwood errors.

Trailing by 31 points at half-time, any hopes of a come-from-behind win for the Demons were quickly quashed by the Magpies who once again took control of the midfield and piled on the first four goals of the third term to blow the margin out to 57 points.

Collingwood will be looking to push for a place in the top four when they face Sydney at ANZ Stadium on June 20 while Melbourne will clash with Essendon at Etihad Stadium on June 19.

MELBOURNE: 0.4, 5.6, 6.9, 8.12 (60)
COLLINGWOOD: 7.4, 10.7, 16.11, 19.12 (126)
GOALS: Melbourne: Sylvia 3, Bate 2, Jones, Robertson, Bruce
Collingwood: Dick 5, Anthony 3, Lockyer 3, Didak 2, Davis, Pendlebury, Clarke, Sidebottom, Cloke, Swan
BEST: Melbourne: Sylvia, Jones, Moloney, Davey
Collingwood: Pendlebury, Swan, Didak, Davis, Dick, Lockyer, Fraser, Shaw, O'Brien, Anthony
INJURIES: Melbourne: TBC
Collingwood: TBC
UMPIRES: Stevic, H Ryan, S Ryan
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
CROWD: 61,287 at MCG

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Collingwood Magpies
   


King hit for six

June 8th 2009 08:00
ST KILDA ruckman Steven King is facing a lengthy stint on the sidelines after being hit with a six-match ban by the match review panel for his off-the-ball clash with North Melbourne midfielder Sam Power.

King's bump on Power was asssessed as intentional conduct, high impact and high contact,which equates to 550 demerit points or a five-match suspension.

But because King has 70.31 points hanging over his head already, his overall tally rose to 620.31 points or a six-match suspension.

However if King accepts the charge his tally will fall to 465.23 points and a four-match ban.

In other tribunal news, Essendon's Patrick Ryder was suspended by the panel for engaging in rough conduct against Adelaide youngster Patrick Dangerfield.

Ryder can accept a one-match suspension but will risk a two-match ban if he elect to challenge the panel's decision at the tribunal on Tuesday night.

Port's Nick Lower can accept a reprimand for a minor striking charge while teammate Toby Thurstans was fined for making negligent contact with an umpire.

Meanwhile, a clash between Sydney spearhead Barry Hall and Hawthorn skipper Sam Mirtchell in the last quarter of Sunday's match at the MCG was looked at but no action was taken with the panel ruling the impact was below that required to consistute a reportable offence.

Hall was also cleared of another incident which led to Xavier Ellis going off under the blood rule in the first quarter.

The panel ruled that while Hall's leg made contact to Ellis' head, it was in the act of contesting the ball and the former Saint did not have any other option.

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Round eleven preview: Melbourne v Collingwood

June 7th 2009 14:12
VENUE and TIME: MCG, Monday 8 June, 2.10pm (AEST)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 222: Melbourne 79, Collingwood 139, Drawn 4

LAST TIME: Collingwood 17.15 (117) d Melbourne 10.4 (64) at the MCG, Round 2, 2009

RECENT HISTORY: The Magpies have won their past three matches against Melbourne.

MEDICAL ROOM: The Pies welcome back key forward Travis Cloke from a hamstring injury but are still without Paul Medhurst (ankle), Anthony Rocca (groin) and Ben Johnson (broken leg). For the Demons, promising defender Colin Garland is sidelined indefinitely with a foot injury while lively small forward Austin Wonaeamirri (knee) and Simon Buckley (quad) are also unavailable. Sam Blease (fractured leg) and John Meesen (foot) are out for the season.

FORM: Collingwood has got its season back on track with back-to-back wins over West Coast and Port Adelaide. The Magpies have won five of their first ten matches and will move into the top eight if they defeat Melbourne on Monday. Melbourne was competitive early against ladder leaders St Kilda but fell away badly in the second half as the Saints cruised to a solid 37-point win. The Demons are languishing in bottom spot with just one win for the year.

KEY MATCH-UPS: James McDonald vs. Dane Swan

Swan was instrumental in the win over the Power, racking up a staggering 48 possessions and booting one goal.

The 25-year-old was also damaging in the Magpies’ 53-point win over Melbourne in round two, helping himself to a game-high 33 disposals and one goal.

Swan provides the Pies with plenty of drive through the middle - he is ranked first in the AFL for total kicks and sixth for total inside 50’s.

If Melbourne is going to have any hope of containing the Pies’ multi-pronged attack they will need to quell the influence of Swan.

With the Demons usual first-choice midfield stopper in Clint Bartram still out of the side, you would expect McDonald who has been used in run with roles in the past, to line-up on Swan in what shapes as being a pivotal duel.

McDonald, who is effective at winning the football at the stoppages, will need to be proactive and get his hands on the football in order to make Swan accountable.

Harry O’Brien vs. Russell Robertson

Robertson starred in Melbourne’s last win over Collingwood in round 11, 2007, booting seven goals to help lift his side to a 13-point victory.

The enigmatic 30-year-old has shown glimpses of his best in the four games he has played this season and the Demons will need a four-quarter performance from him if they are going to record just their second win of the year.

O’Brien has the ability to match Robertson in the air and also at ground level, so you would expect him to line-up on the dangerous Demons veteran.

In last weekend’s loss to the Saints Melbourne entered inside their forward line just 33 times.

If Robertson is going to have any hope of having an impact he will need his midfield to lift their work-rate at the stoppages and move the football quickly inside 50.

Matthew Warnock vs. John Anthony

Anthony continued his consistent start to the season against Port, booting four goals to take his season tally to 24 majors from nine games.

The 21-year-old was his side's most productive forward when these two teams met earlier in the year with four goals.

Warnock has shown some promising signs in his 31-game career and will most likely be given first crack at Anthony on Monday afternoon.

In the round two clash the Magpies entered inside their forward 50 a staggering 64 times.

Warnock will need his teammates to apply immense pressure and prevent the Magpies midfield from delivering the football inside 50 cleanly otherwise Anthony could have a day out.

Brad Dick vs. Aaron Davey

Davey has been below his best in the past fortnight, racking up just 17 and 19 possessions in losses to Hawthorn and the Saints - well down on his season average of 23.8 disposals per game.

When Davey is up and firing he is able to hurt sides with his clean use of the football.

Collingwood will be keen to curtail his influence as the Demons will struggle to receive enough quality supply to have any chance of kicking a winning score if Davey doesn’t have an impact.

Dick played his best game for the Magpies last weekend, racking up 25 possessions and kicking three goals.

The promising 20-year-old has the pace to match Davey and looms as the obvious candidate to be used in an attacking run with role.

The Magpies will need Dick to deny Davey any time or space in which to dispose of the football cleanly and also push forward at every available opportunity and try and hurt the Demons star on the scoreboard.

VERDICT: Melbourne may have won six out of 10 Queen's Birthday clashes against Collingwood since this match was reinstated in 1999 but the Magpies are starting to hit their straps and should have too much firepower for a Demons side that has been competitive but simply doesn’t know how to win a game of football at the moment. Expect Dean Bailey’s men to stick with the Magpies for the first half before the Pies’ class come to the fore. Magpies by 42 points.

MELBOURNE v COLLINGWOOD
Melbourne
B: Matthew Whelan, Matthew Warnock, Daniel Bell
HB: James Frawley, Jared Rivers, Aaron Davey
C: Jack Grimes, Cale Morton, Brock McLean
HF: Colin Sylvia, Russell Robertson, Jack Watts
F: Brad Green, Matthew Bate, Cameron Bruce
Foll: Mark Jamar, Brent Moloney, James McDonald
I/C: Paul Johnson, Addam Maric, Nathan Jones, Kyle Cheney
Emg: Jamie Bennell, Lynden Dunn, Michael Newton

In: Robertson, Watts, Cheney
Out: Brad Miller, Stefan Martin, Jamie Bennell

Collingwood
B: Harry O’Brien, Simon Prestigiacomo, Shannon Cox
HB: Nick Maxwell, Leigh Brown, Sharrod Wellingham
C: Brad Dick, Tarkyn Lockyer, Dale Thomas
HF: Scott Pendlebury, Travis Cloke, Leon Davis
F: Alan Didak, John Anthony, Heath Shaw
Foll: Josh Fraser, Dane Swan, Shane O’Bree
I/C: Nathan Brown, Martin Clarke, Steele Sidebottom, Alan Toovey
Emg: Paul Medhurst, Ben Reid, Cameron Wood

In: Cloke
Out: Cameron Wood


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Cats remain unbeaten

June 7th 2009 10:32
GEELONG has maintained its unbeaten start to the season with an unconvincing 22-point win over a gallant West Coast side at Subiaco Oval on Sunday.

The Cats got the early jump and survived several challenges from the Eagles, eventually prevailing 15.9 (99) to 11.11 (77).

West Coast had their chances to cause a massive upset but their lack of finishing proved to be costly as they slumped to their fourth straight loss.

Gary Ablett did his Brownlow medal chances no harm with a staggering 43 possessions and two goals while Joel Selwood showed his class with 26 quality disposals.

Paul Chapman was influential in his return from injury with 24 disposals and three goals while Tom Hawkins chimed in with three valuable majors.

For the Eagles, ruckman Dean Cox was his side’s best with 32 hit outs, 30 possessions and one goal while Adam Hunter and Matt Priddis were busy contributors.

Quinten Lynch, Mitch Brown and Ben McKinley booted two goals apiece while veteran Tyson Stenglein kept dangerous Geelong forward Steve Johnson to just one goal.

The Cats jumped out of the blocks in the first term, moving the football quickly and cleanly as they piled on five unanswered goals in a stunning 14-minute burst to skip out to a commanding 31-point lead.

Geelong looked set to put the game beyond West Coast’s reach in the opening stanza but the Eagles lifted their rating and kicked the only other goal for the quarter through Cox at the 16-minute mark to reduce the deficit to 22 points at quarter-time.

The Eagles got themselves back into the contest in the second term, continually running the football out of defence and into the forward line where Brown booted two of his side’s four goals to help get West Coast to within 11 points at the main break.

A clever snap from Lynch reduced the margin to just three points in the third term but that only served to spark the Cats into action.

Geelong coach Mark Thompson responded by sending Ablett to the forward line and the move paid dividends with the 25-year-old kicking his second before Johnson got away from Stenglein to slot one home to give the Cats a 14-point buffer.

West Coast hit back through McKinley but two goals in a minute from Chapman was followed by a major from Shannon Byrnes who benefited from a dreadful mistake by Jamie McNamara, who kicked the ball the wrong way

A Scott Selwood major ensured the Eagles remained within striking distance at three-quarter time with the Cats holding a 22-point advantage.

The Eagles got the crucial first goal of the final stanza through McKinley and had their chances to edge closer but Chris Masten and Brad Ebert failed to capitalise.

They were made to pay with Hawkins slotting one home to give his side some breathing space with 13 minutes left on the clock.

Mark LeCras kicked his first to give West Coast a sniff but the Eagles poor use of the football going forward prevented them from stringing together back-to-back goals as the Cats held on for their 11th straight win.

WEST COAST: 1.3, 5.6, 8.9, 11.11 (77)
GEELONG: 5.1, 7.5, 12.7, 15.9 (99)
GOALS: West Coast: Brown 2, Lynch 2, McKinley 2, Cox, Kennedy, Scott Selwood, Le Cras, Rosa
Geelong: Hawkins 3, Chapman 3, Ablett 2, Byrnes 2, Gamble, Mooney, Varcoe, Johnson, Stokes
BEST: West Coast: Cox, Priddis, Stenglein, Hunter, Glass, Hurn
Geelong: J. Selwood, Ablett, Chapman, Mackie, Ling, Kelly
INJURIES: West Coast: Embley (ankle)
Geelong: Nil
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: Margetts, McLaren, Kamolins
CROWD: 35,355 at Subiaco Oval
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


Hawks down Swans

June 7th 2009 08:42
HAWTHORN has held on for a hard-fought 11-point win over Sydney at the MCG on Sunday afternoon.

The Hawks’ 12.14 (86) to 11.9 (75) triumph sees them move back into the top eight with a 6-5 win-loss record.

Some off the gloss was taken off the win for Hawthorn with classy forward Cyril Rioli injuring his hamstring in the first term while veteran Stuart Dew limped off with what appeared to be a calf injury in the last quarter.

Sydney has now lost its past two matches to slump to 10th spot with a 5-6 win-loss record.

Hawks vice-captain Luke Hodge made an impressive return from injury with a team-high 23 possessions while skipper Sam Mitchell and Brad Sewell were also influential with 20-plus touches.

Lance Franklin, Jarryd Roughead and Mark Williams finished off their good work, booting three goals apiece.

For the Swans, Adam Goodes was best afield with 23 disposals and three goals while Ryan O’Keefe won a lot of the football.

Darren Jolly was dominant in the ruck with 35 hit outs while Martin Mattner generated plenty of run.

Both sides were guilty of wasting chances in front of goal in the opening stanza but it was the Hawks who went into quarter-time with a 12-point lead.

A largely uninspiring first half of football finished with Hawthorn in front by 16 points at the main break.

Hawthorn entered inside their forward 50 four more times than Sydney in the third term but they didn’t capitalise, booting a wasteful 2.6 for the quarter.

While the Hawks were wayward the Swans were incredibly efficient, kicking four straight goals to close to within ten points at three-quarter time.

Goals from Goodes and Jolly saw Sydney hit the lead for the first time in the match early in the final stanza.

Williams put his side back in front before a brain explosion from Swans spearhead Barry Hall turned the game on its head.

The Swans were in attack when Roughead marked before Hall gave away a 50 metre penalty for pulling the Hawk to the ground.

Hall continued to protest to the umpires who gave Hawthorn a further two 50m penalties.

Roughead made Hall pay for indiscretion, kicking the easiest of goals before Xavier Ellis soccered one home a minute later to give the Hawks a match-winning break.

HAWTHORN: 4.5, 7.5, 9.11, 12.14 (86)
SYDNEY: 2.5, 4.7, 8.7, 11.9 (75)
GOALS: Hawthorn: Franklin 3, Williams 3, Roughead 3, Ellis 2, Mitchell
Sydney: Goodes 3, Hall 2, Jolly, McVeigh, O'Loughlin, J Bolton, Mattner, Kirk
BEST: Hawthorn: Mitchell, Hodge, Birchall, Campbell, McGlynn, Lewis, Franklin, Williams, Sewell
Sydney: Goodes, O'Keefe, Shaw, Mattner, Jolly, J Bolton
INJURIES: Hawthorn: Rioli (hamstring), Dew (calf)
Sydney:
UMPIRES: Donlon, Vozzo, Hendrie
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Hawthorn: Brown replaced in selected side Tuck. Murphy replaced in selected side by Schoenmakers
CROWD: 44,464 at MCG
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Hawthorn Hawks
   


Crows outgun Dons

June 7th 2009 07:40
ADELAIDE has celebrated Tyson Edwards’ 300th game with a 16-point win over Essendon in a high-scoring affair at Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The Crows trailed at every change but hit the front in early in the final term and eventually went on to record a 21.4 (130) to 18.6 (114) victory in one of the games of the season.

The result sees Adelaide move to seventh place on the AFL ladder with a 6-5 win-loss while the Bombers have lost their past two matches to drop out of the top eight.

The win was soured somewhat for the Crows with skipper Simon Goodwin suffering a knee injury in the second term. He played no further part in the match and will know the full extent of the injury in the next 48 hours.

Edwards starred with a game-high 41 possessions while Bernie Vince and Scott Thompson were also prolific.

Up forward, Kurt Tippett did the damage with a career-best seven goals while Chris Knights continued his recent run of good form with five majors.

Knights has now kicked 14 goals in his past three matches.

For the Bombers, Brent Stanton and Andrew Lovett racked up a team-high 31 disposals apiece while Jobe Watson finished with 26 touches and three goals.

Scott Lucas booted four goals in his comeback match after a month in the VFL while Patrick Ryder was busy in the ruck with 25 hit outs.

Essendon stamped their authority on the contest in the first term, winning the football at the stoppages and moving the football quickly through the middle of the ground as they piled on five of the six first goals of the match.

Watson was particularly damaging with 10 possessions and two goals to help his side to a 26-point lead late in the quarter.

But goals from Patrick Dangerfield and Tippett ensured the Crows remained in touch at the first change with Essendon holding a 15-point advantage.

The first goal after quarter-time came in controversial circumstances with Lucas slotting one home from an acute angle in the opening minute after ruckman Ivan Maric was penalised for deliberately rushing a behind.

It was the Tippett show in the second term - the Adelaide forward booting three of his side’s six goals for the quarter, including two from deep in either pocket.

Tippett capped off an impressive quarter by taking a spectacular mark over the top of Lovett but despite his efforts the Crows trailed by 10 points at half-time with the Bombers answering every challenge thrown at them by Adelaide.

Essendon looked set to run away with the contest when the margin blew out to 21 points at the 12-minute mark of the third term but the Crows responded through Ivan Maric, Taylor Walker and Tippett before a late major from Alywn Davey gave the Dons an eight-point buffer at three-quarter time.

Adelaide hit the front for the first time in the match just three minutes into the final stanza after goals from Richard Douglas and Jason Porplyzia.

The Bombers continued to battle hard but they simply didn’t have the legs to match the Crows who recorded their third consecutive victory.

ESSENDON: 5.3, 10.4, 16.4, 18.6 (114)
ADELAIDE: 3.0, 9.0, 15.2, 21.4 (130)
GOALS: Essendon: Lucas 4, Watson 3, Monfries 2, Skipworth 2, Ryder, Dyson, McPhee, McVeigh, Lovett, Reimers, Davey
Adelaide: Tippett 7, Knights 5, Walker 2, Douglas 2, Vince, Dangerfield, McLeod, Maric, Porplyzia
BEST: Essendon: Lovett, Watson, Stanton, Ryder, Davey, Lucas
Adelaide: Edwards, Tippett, Knights, Thompson, Bock, Vince, Moran
INJURIES: Essendon: Nil
Adelaide: Goodwin (knee)
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: Kennedy, Grun, Findlay
CROWD: 39,451 at Etihad Stadium
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Adelaide Crows
   


Round eleven preview: West Coast v Geelong

June 6th 2009 15:32
VENUE and TIME: Subiaco Oval, Sunday 7 June, 4.40pm (AEST)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 39, West Coast 21, Geelong 17, Draws 1

LAST TIME: Geelong 24.20 (164) def West Coast 10.5 (65), Round 22 2008 at Skilled Stadium

RECENT HISTORY: Geelong has won its past three against West Coast, including a 135-point demolition of the Eagles in round 13 last year at Subiaco Oval - their biggest-ever loss at home.

FORM: Geelong maintained its unbeaten start to the season with a 64-point win over Essendon at Etihad Stadium last Sunday. The final margin flattered the Bombers as the Cats took their foot off the pedal in the final stanza after booting 17 goals to five in the first three quarters. West Coast has lost its past three to Sydney, Collingwood and Carlton to slump to 13th place on the AFL ladder with a 3-7 win-loss record.

MEDICAL ROOM: West Coast welcomes back midfielder Matt Priddis from a groin strain but will be without veteran David Wirrpanda (hamstring). Ashley Hansen (groin) and Brent Staker (hand) are unavailable while rugged utility Beau Waters (dislocated elbow) won‘t play again in 2009. For the Cats, star forward Paul Chapman, Tom Lonergan and Ryan Gamble return from injury but Harry Taylor and skipper Tom Harley will miss with ankle and hamstring injuries respectively. Joel Corey, who was a late withdrawal from the clash against the Bombers with a foot injury remains on the sidelines while ruckman Brad Ottens (knee) is sidelined for a further three to four weeks. Matthew Egan (foot), Josh Hunt (knee) and youngster Mitch Brown (broken leg) are out for the season.

KEY MATCH-UPS: Cameron Ling vs. Matt Priddis

With star midfielder Daniel Kerr out of the side due to suspension the Eagles will need Priddis to win a lot of the football at the stoppages to help get them going otherwise they will struggle to be competitive.

Priddis faces a tough afternoon at the office with Ling, who kept Jobe Watson relatively quiet last weekend, to be his likely opponent.

Not only does Ling quell the influence of his opponents but he also has the ability to hurt them - in the round 22 clash between these two sides last year he collected a game-high 34 possessions in a performance that earned him the three Brownlow medal votes.

It is vital for the Eagles that Priddis works hard both ways.

Adam Selwood vs. Gary Ablett

The last time these two sides met at Subiaco Oval Ablett starred with a game-high 37 possessions, two goals and five inside 50’s.

The classy Geelong midfielder cuts sides up with his ability to break the lines, kick goals and set up scoring opportunities for his teammates.

He will need to be contained if the Eagles are going to have any hope of even getting close to the unbeaten Cats.

Selwood is West Coast’s number one tagger and looms as the obvious candidate to run with Ablett in what shapes as being a pivotal duel.

Ablett can’t be completely stopped, therefore Selwood needs to be proactive and win his own football at the stoppages and try and hurt him going the other way.

Andrew Mackie vs. Mark LeCras

LeCras has been his side’s most consistent so far in 2009, booting 26 goals in nine games.

With Ben McKinley not in the same sort of form as he was last year and Josh Kennedy not a big goal-kicker, it is hard to see where the Eagles will get enough goals from to be competitive if LeCras is kept quiet.

Despite standing at just 182cm, LeCras is very good overhead so you would expect someone like Mackie, who is capable of matching him in the air and also mobile enough to go with him when the football hit’s the deck, to line-up on the dangerous West Coast forward.

In their three wins this season the Eagles were long and direct with their use of the football - they will need to do the same on Sunday if LeCras is going to have any chance of having an impact.

Shannon Hurn vs. Steve Johnson

Johnson continued his brilliant start to the season with six goals against the Bombers, taking his season tally to 32 goals.

The 2007 Norm Smith medallist is in All-Australian form and would fancy his chances of kicking another bag against an Eagles side that allowed the Blues to have 31 scoring shots last weekend.

Hurn has the ability to match Johnson when is in the forward line and also when he pushes into the midfield, so you would expect the 21-year-old to be given first crack at the classy Geelong star.

The Eagles will need Hurn to be switched on defensively for the full four quarters and not give Johnson any time or space in which to work in as he is capable of turning a game on its head with a quick burst of brilliance - highlighted by his four goals in the third term against the Dons.

VERDICT: West Coast was competitive in patches against Carlton last weekend but they let themselves down repeatedly with their use of the football going forward. The Eagles are one of the least-skilled sides in the AFL and will be punished on the rebound by a red-hot Geelong side that will put the result beyond doubt with a 10 to 15 minute burst of sublime football. Cats by 51 points.

WEST COAST v GEELONG
West Coast
B: Mark Nicoski, Darren Glass, Shannon Hurn
HB: Andrew Embley, Eric Mackenzie, Adam Selwood
C: Matt Rosa, Tom Swift, Tyson Stenglein
HF: Jamie McNamara, Josh Kennedy, Scott Selwood
F: Ben McKinley, Quinten Lynch, Mark LeCras
Foll: Dean Cox, Chris Masten, Brad Ebert
I/C: Mitch Brown, Adam Hunter, Matt Spangher, Matt Priddis
Emg: Chad Fletcher, Tim Houlihan, Mark Seaby

In: Priddis, Spangher
Out: Daniel Kerr (susp), David Wirrpanda (hamstring)

Geelong
B: Darren Milburn, Matthew Scarlett, Andrew Mackie
HB: Corey Enright, Tom Lonergan, James Kelly
C: Steve Johnson, Gary Ablett, Travis Varcoe
HF: Jimmy Bartel, Tom Hawkins, Mathew Stokes
F: Paul Chapman, Cameron Mooney, Shannon Byrnes
Foll: Mark Blake, Joel Selwood, Cameron Ling
I/C: Ryan Gamble, Shane Mumford, David Wojcinski, Nathan Djerrkura
Emg: David Johnson, Max Rooke, Joel Corey

In: Lonergan, Stokes, Gamble, Chapman
Out: Harry Taylor (ankle), Tom Harley (hamstring), Max Rooke, David Johnson


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Round eleven preview: Hawthorn v Sydney

June 6th 2009 14:38
VENUE and TIME: MCG, Sunday 7 June, 2.10pm (AEST)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 144: Hawthorn 78, Sydney 64, Drawn 2

LAST TIME: Sydney 22.11 (143) d Hawthorn 15.15 (105) at ANZ Stadium, Round 2, 2009

RECENT HISTORY: Sydney has won seven of its past eight against Hawthorn with three of those wins coming at the MCG.

FORM: Hawthorn’s inconsistent start to the season continued when they went down to Adelaide by 27 points at AAMI Stadium last Sunday. The reigning premiers have recorded just two successive wins on two occasions and find themselves in ninth place on the AFL ladder with a 5-5 win-loss record. Sydney is yet to win away from home in 2009 after being thumped to the tune of 40 points by the Western Bulldogs at Manuka Oval in Canberra. The Swans also have won five of their first ten matches but are in the top eight thanks to their superior percentage.

MEDICAL ROOM: The Hawks welcome back vice-captain Luke Hodge who has been sidelined since round seven with an abdominal strain but Garry Moss (knee), Trent Croad (foot), Stephen Gilham (knee), Rick Ladson (knee), Cameron Stokes (hamstring), Clinton Young (quad) and Brendan White cross (hamstring) are unavailable. For the Swans, Luke Ablett will miss after suffering a shoulder injury in the loss to the Bulldogs. Brett Meredith (fractured forearm) and Henry Playfair (hamstring) remain on the sidelines while veteran defender Leo Barry is close to returning from a calf strain.

KEY MATCH-UPS: Brad Sewell vs. Adam Goodes

Goodes continued his brilliant run of form with 30 possessions, two goals and nine inside 50’s against the Bulldogs.

The last time these two sides met in round two Goodes starred with 24 touches and four goals to help lift his side to a 38-point win.

The dual Brownlow medallist is Sydney’s most damaging player in the middle as he is capable of breaking the game wide open with his run and carry and ability to kick goals.

Sewell is Hawthorn’s number one stopper in the midfield and will go head-to-head with Goodes in what shapes as being a pivotal match-up in determining the outcome of this match.

The Hawks will need Sewell hurt Goodes going the other way.

Craig Bolton vs. Lance Franklin

Franklin has booted 36 goals in 2009 but he hasn’t been able to take a game by the scruff of his neck like he did last season.

Last year’s Coleman medallist booted four goals the last time these two sides met at the MCG in round 15 last year to help lift the Hawks to a 31-point win.

Bolton is one of the in-form defenders in the competition and will line-up on the Hawthorn star in what will be yet another crucial match-up.

Hawthorn was one of the most efficient sides last season but their use of the football has been well below par this season, especially in the first half of the loss to the Crows.

If Franklin is going to have any chance of having an impact he will need his midfield to be cleaner with their use of the football going forward.

Brett Kirk vs. Sam Mitchell

Mitchell played a key role in getting the Hawks back into the contest against Adelaide last weekend, winning his fair share of the contested football in the third term.

The Hawthorn skipper is an integral part of his side’s midfield with his ability to win the football at the stoppages and use it cleanly to find his teammates in space.

In the round two clash this year Kirk did a superb blanketing job on Mitchell, restricting him to just 13 touches.

Expect Kirk to go head-to-head with Mitchell in the middle once again.

Like Mitchell, Kirk is highly effective at winning the football in close and he is also renowned for his tackling pressure.

Mitchell will need his teammates to block for him at the stoppages if he is going to have any chance of breaking Kirk’s tag.

Robert Campbell vs. Barry Hall

Hall continued his good start to the season with six goals against the Bulldogs, taking his season tally to 23 goals from eight games.

The Swans veteran booted four goals the last time these two sides met and will need to be contained if the Hawks are going to secure a vital win.

With Croad and Gilham still out of the side you would expect Campbell to be given first crack at Hall as he has the body to match him in the one-on-one contests.

While Campbell is able to match Hall in the one-on-one duels he may be exposed on the lead so if the Swans can get the football quickly inside 50 the former Saints could have a day out.

VERDICT: While Sydney hasn’t won away from home so far this season they also haven’t lost two games in a row. We believe the win-loss sequence will continue on Sunday with the Swans blue-collar midfield possessing the ability to shut-down Hawthorn’s prime movers in the middle. Swans by 13 points.

HAWTHORN v SYDNEY SWANS
Hawthorn
B: Brent Guerra, Thomas Murphy, Campbell Brown
HB: Xavier Ellis, Luke Hodge, Grant Birchall
C: Beau Muston, Sam Mitchell, Liam Shiels
HF: Chance Bateman, Lance Franklin, Ben McGlynn
F: Cyril Rioli, Jarryd Roughead, Michael Osborne
Foll: Simon Taylor, Brad Sewell, Jordan Lewis
I/C: Robert Campbell, Stuart Dew, Brent Renouf, Mark Williams
Emg: Jarryd Morton, Travis Tuck, Ryan Schoenmakers

In: Hodge, Renouf
Out: Jarryd Morton, Brendan Whitecross (hamstring)

Sydney Swans
B: Craig Bolton, Lewis Roberts-Thomson, Martin Mattner
HB: Rhyce Shaw, Ted Richards, Jared Crouch
C: Adam Goodes, Brett Kirk, Amon Buchanan
HF: Paul Bevan, Ryan O’Keefe, Kieren Jack
F: Heath Grundy, Barry Hall, Michael O’Loughlin
Foll: Darren Jolly, Jarrad McVeigh, Jude Bolton
I/C: Craig Bird, Nick Malceski, Jarred Moore, Jesse White
Emg: Ed Barlow, Mike Pyke, Kristin Thornton

In: Bird
Out: Luke Ablett (shoulder)


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Round eleven preview: Essendon v Adelaide

June 6th 2009 14:03
VENUE and TIME: Etihad Stadium, Sunday 7 June, 2.10pm (AEST)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 26, Essendon 15, Adelaide 11

LAST TIME: Adelaide 19.15 (129) def Essendon 10.13 (73), Round 20 2008 at Etihad Stadium

RECENT HISTORY: Essendon has won 11 of its past 12 matches against Adelaide in Melbourne.

FORM: Essendon was given a major reality check last Sunday when they were thumped to the tune of 64 points by a red-hot Geelong side. The Bombers are in tenth place on the AFL ladder with a 5-5 win-loss record. Adelaide strung together back-to-back wins for the first time this season when they downed Hawthorn by 27 points at AAMI Stadium. The Crows have also won five of their first ten matches.

MEDICAL ROOM: The Bombers welcome back Courtenay Dempsey who missed the clash against the Cats with strained ankle ligaments and Kyle Reimers for his first game of the season after being sidelined with a quad injury but they will be without Henry Slattery (hamstring), Andrew Welsh (ankle) and young ruckman Tom Bellchambers who will miss up to six weeks with a knee injury. Dustin Fletcher (leg fracture), Michael Hurley (broken wrist) Scott Gumbleton (back) remain on the sidelines while number one ruckman David Hille (knee) is out for the season. For the Crows, ruckman Jonathan Griffin (calf) will miss at least another week while forwards Brett Burton and Trent Hentschel are five weeks away from returning from knee injuries.

KEY MATCH-UPS: Michael Doughty vs. Jobe Watson

Watson has been his side’s most consistent midfielder so far this season, averaging 27 disposals per game.

The 24-year-old is highly effective at winning the football at the stoppages and using it cleanly by hand to find the likes of Andrew Lovett and Alwyn Davey in space.

Limiting his influence at the stoppages will be a key for the Crows if they are going to shut-down the Bombers’ running game.

Doughty, who has done a good job on Carlton skipper Chris Judd and Hawthorn captain Sam Mitchell in the past fortnight, will be given the job of running with Watson.

Not only has he quelled the influence of two of the premier midfielders in the competition but he has also won his fair share of the football - he collected 26 and 25 possessions in the wins over the Blues and the Hawks.

Adelaide will need Doughty to do the same on Sunday otherwise Watson will be able to dictate terms and dominate.

Cale Hooker vs. Taylor Walker

Walker played the best game of his brief career last weekend, booting five first half goals against the Hawks in a performance that earned him the NAB Rising Star nomination for round 10.

Hooker kept Geelong young gun Tom Hawkins goalless last weekend and will most likely line-up on Walker in what shapes as being an intriguing match-up between two promising youngsters.

Walker is at his damaging best when leading into space so Hooker will need his midfield to apply relentless pressure and not allow the Crows to deliver the football cleanly inside 50.

Expect Hooker, who collected 22 touches and booted one goal in the loss to the Cats, to run off Walker at every available opportunity and try and hurt him on the rebound.

Ben Rutten vs. Matthew Lloyd

Lloyd played a key role in Essendon’s last win over the Crows in round 17, 2007, booting five goals to help lift his side to a 12-point victory.

The Bombers will need a similar performance from their skipper if they are going to record a valuable win.

However, Lloyd faces a tough afternoon at the office with Rutten, who kept Hawthorn forward Jarryd Roughead to just one goal last weekend, to be his opponent.

If Lloyd is going to have any hope of winning his duel with Rutten he will need his midfield to break the lines and move the football quickly inside 50 otherwise the Crows will be able to push numbers back and punish the Dons on the rebound.

Heath Hocking vs. Scott Thompson

Thompson was instrumental in the win over the Hawks with a game-high 38 possessions and seven inside 50’s.

The last time these two sides met in round 20 last year Thompson starred with 31 touches, one goal and four inside 50’s in a performance that earned him the three Brownlow medal votes.

Shutting down the drive Thompson provides through the middle will be a key for the Bombers if they are going to starve the Crows forwards of quality supply.

Hocking has been given some big run with roles so far this season and looms as the obvious candidate to run with the former Demon.

Essendon will need Hocking to be switched on at the stoppages and not allow Thompson any time or space otherwise he will continually win the football in close and pump it inside 50 to the likes of Taylor Walker and Jason Porplyzia.

VERDICT: Essendon will fancy their chances of recording their sixth win of the season on Sunday given their record against Adelaide in Melbourne but with Patrick Ryder forced to do pretty much all the ruck work against a Crows side that boasts three ruckmen you would expect Neil Craig’s men to win more of the football at the stoppages. Expect the Crows to break the game open in the first half as they have done in the past two weeks and eventually hold on for a win in Tyson Edwards’ 300th game. Crows by 21 points.

ESSENDON v ADELAIDE
Essendon
B: Courtenay Dempsey, Tayte Pears, Mark McVeigh
HB: Brent Stanton, Adam McPhee, Cale Hooker
C: Ricky Dyson, Heath Hocking, Kyle Reimers
HF: Angus Monfries, Jay Neagle, Andrew Lovett
F: Alwyn Davey, Matthew Lloyd, Sam Lonergan
Foll: Patrick Ryder, Jobe Watson, Brent Prismall
I/C: David Zaharakis, Bachar Houli, Scott Lucas, Hayden Skipworth
Emg: Leroy Jetta, Tyson Slattery, Darcy Daniher

In: Dempsey, Lucas, Prismall, Reimers
Out: Henry Slattery (hamstring), Jason Winderlich (ankle), Tom Bellchambers (knee), Leroy Jetta

New: Brent Prismall (Geelong)

Adelaide
B: Graham Johncock, Ben Rutten, Andy Otten
HB: Michael Doughty, Nathan Bock, Andrew McLeod
C: Chris Knights, Simon Goodwin, David Mackay
HF: Nathan van Berlo, Kurt Tippett, Bernie Vince
F: Jason Porplyzia, Taylor Walker, Scott Stevens
Foll: Brad Moran, Tyson Edwards, Scott Thompson
I/C: Brad Symes, Ivan Maric, Richard Douglas, Patrick Dangerfield
Emg: Jared Petrenko, Brent Reilly, James Sellar

No change

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Port hold off Dockers

June 6th 2009 13:38
PORT ADELAIDE has snapped a two-game losing streak with a hard-fought 24-point win over Fremantle at AAMI Stadium on Saturday night.

The Power took control of the contest in the third term before holding on for a much-needed 14.10 (94) to 11.4 (70) win.

The result improves Port's record to 6-5 while the Dockers have now lost their past four matches.

Kane Cornes (34 possessions) had the better of his duel with Paul Hasleby while skipper Domenic Cassisi, Jacob Surjan and Danyle Pearce were also influential.

Toby Thurstans was busy in defence with 24 disposals while Troy Chaplin quelled the influence of Fremantle skipper Matthew Pavlich.

The Power had 11 individual goal kickers for the match - David Rodan the most effective with three while Justin Westhoff chimed in with two majors in his first match since suffering a foot injury against West Coast in round two.

For the Dockers, Paul Duffield racked a team-high 29 possessions while Greg Broughton and Hasleby also won plenty of the football.

Aaron Sandilands was a dominant force in the ruck with 27 hit outs and 20 touches while David Mundy helped himself to 22 possessions and two goals.

Fremantle jumped out of the blocks in the opening stanza, continually winning the contested football and moving it quickly through the middle of the ground as they slammed on four of the first five goals to race out to a 20-point lead at the 14-minute mark.

The Dockers looked set to blow Port away in the first term but the Power lifted their rating and hit back with the last two goals of the quarter to trail by just five points at the first change.

Goals from Scott Thornton and Garrick Ibbotson saw the margin blow out to 16 points in the second term before the Power responded with majors from Travis Boak and Justin Westhoff.

When Brendon Lade kicked truly from near the boundary line Port had the lead for the first time in the match.

However their lead was short-lived with the Dockers kicking two of the last three goals of the half through debutants Michael Walters and Clancee Pearce to go into the main break with a two-point advantage.

Port’s willingness to run hard in the third term paid dividends as they slammed on the first three goals of the second half to open up a 14-point buffer.

The Dockers refused to be blown away and remained within striking distance thanks to goals from Pavlich and Mundy.

But Port had all the answers and went into the final change with a handy 20-point buffer after Cornes and Rodan kicked majors in the final 19 seconds of the third term.

The Power managed just one goal in an error-riddled final term but it was enough to secure the four premiership points.

PORT ADELAIDE: 3.3, 7.6, 13.6, 14.10 (94)
FREMANTLE: 4.2,8.2, 10.4, 11.4 (70)
GOALS: Port Adelaide: Rodan 3, J.Westhoff 2, Tredrea, Boak, Lade, Chaplin, Motlop, Pearce, M.Westhoff, K.Cornes, Ebert
Fremantle: Thornton
2, Pavlich 2, Mundy 2, Solomon, De Boer, Ibbotson, Walters, Pearce
BEST: Port Adelaide: K.Cornes, Thurstans, Pearce, Surjan, J.Westhoff, Rodan, Chaplin, Pettigrew
Fremantle: Sandilands, Hasleby, Tarrant, Broughton, Schammer, Duffield, Mundy
INJURIES: Port Adelaide: TBC
Fremantle: Campbell (concussion)
REPORTS: TBC
CHANGES: Robbie Gray (Port Adelaide) replaced in the selected side by Justin Westhoff. Hayden Ballantyne (Fremantle) replaced in the selected side by Michael Walters.
UMPIRES: McBurney, Avon, Mollison
CROWD: 18,418 at AAMI Stadium
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Fevola inspired Blues win thriller

June 6th 2009 12:48
BRENDAN Fevola has inspired Carlton to a thrilling six-point win over Brisbane at the Gabba on Saturday night.

Fevola booted eight goals to help lift the Blues to a16.16 (112) to 16.10 (106) victory over a fast-finishing Lions side.

The result sees Carlton take Brisbane’s place in the top four thanks to their superior percentage.

Blues skipper Chris Judd led from the front with a team-high 28 possessions and one goal while Bryce Gibbs, Heath Scotland and Marc Murphy also won plenty of the football.

Aaron Joseph enhanced his reputation as a tagger, keeping Rhan Hooper to just four disposals.

For the Lions, Simon Black starred with a game-high 33 touches and one goal while Jared Brennan and captain Jonathan Brown kicked four goals apiece.

Brown could have easily finished with a bag but he failed to make the most of his chances in front of goal, kicking five behinds for the night.

Mitch Clark continued his good run of form with 33 hit outs and 15 possessions while Luke Power (26 disposals, two goals) helped get his side back into the match in the final term.

Brennan kicked the first goal of the match but the rest of the term belonged to the Blues.

However they failed to make the most of their dominance, kicking an incredibly wasteful 3.6 for the quarter to lead by just 10 points at the first change.

Brennan played a lone hand up forward for the Lions in the second term, booting all three of his side’s goals, including two in the space of a minute to ensure they remained within striking distance at half-time with the Blues holding a 17-point advantage.

The margin should have been greater but Fevola managed just three majors from his nine shots on goal in the first half.

The Blues spearhead finally found his range in the third term, kicking four goals for the quarter to help blow the margin out to what appeared to be a match-winning 30 points heading into the final change.

But with Black and Power exerting their influence in the middle the Lions were able to get back into the contest and were within six points at the 10-minute mark of the final stanza when Justin Sherman kicked truly.

Goals from Andrew Carrazzo and Fevola gave the Blues some breathing space but Brisbane refused to give in and hit back through Daniel Rich and Daniel Bradshaw to once again reduce the deficit to just six points.

It would be as close as the Lions would get with Judd goaling on the run to seal a valuable win for the Blues.

BRISBANE LIONS: 2.2, 5.5, 9.7, 16.10 (106)
CARLTON: 3.6, 7.10, 13.13, 16.16 (112)
GOALS: Brisbane Lions: Brown 4, Brennan 4, Power 2, Bradshaw 2, Black, Sherman, Rich, McGrath
Carlton: Fevola 8, Judd, Scotland, Carrazzo, Houlihan, Fisher, Garlett, Simpson, O'hAilpin
BEST: Brisbane Lions: Black, Brown, Brennan, Clark, Power
Carlton: Fevola, Judd, Murphy, Gibbs, Scotland, Joseph
INJURIES: Brisbane Lions: Drummond (calf)
Carlton:
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: James, Rosebury, Armstrong
CROWD: 33,790 at the Gabba


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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Carlton Blues
   


Pies welcome back Cloke

June 6th 2009 08:25
COLLINGWOOD forward Travis Cloke has been included in the final side for Monday's Queen's Birthday clash against Melbourne at the MCG.

Cloke, who has been sidelined with a hamstring strain suffered in the 88-point loss to St Kilda in round seven, replaces ruckman Cameron Wood.

Paul Medhurst, who hasn't played since injuring his ankle in round six, was named as an emergency along with Ben Reid and Wood.

Meanwhile, the Demons have made three changes with number one draft pick Jack Watts, vetran forward Russell Robertson and youngster Kyle Cheney coming in for Brad Miller, Jamie Bennell and Stefan Martin who have all been dropped.
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Eleven straight for Saints

June 6th 2009 07:51
ST KILDA has overcome a sluggish start to notch a club-record 11th straight win with a 46-point victory over North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The Saints trailed by as much as 29 points but slowly worked their way back into the contest before running over the top of a brave Kangaroos side to prevail 15.13 (103) to 9.3 (57).

North was reduced to just 17 men on the field late in the final term after being decimated by injury.

The Roos have now lost their past two and are all but out of finals contention with just four wins from their first 11 matches.

Lenny Hayes continued his good form with a game-high 32 possessions while Jason Gram generated plenty of run with 31 disposals and one goal.

Hayes and Gram were well supported in the middle by Leigh Montagna, Nick Dal Santo and Luke Ball.

Up forward, Justin Koschitzke starred with a career-best six goals while skipper Nick Riewoldt chimed in with three majors.

For the Roos, Hamish McIntosh was influential in the ruck with 40 hit outs while former skipper Adam Simpson (21 possessions, one goal) tried hard all day.

Michael Firrito was a busy contributor with 18 touches, seven marks and one goal while Andrew Swallow was his side’s only multiple goal kicker with two majors.

The Kangaroos stamped their authority on the contest in the opening stanza, suffocating the Saints with their relentless pressure and moving the football quickly as they booted the first five goals of the match to skip out to an early 29-point lead.

St Kilda had to wait until the 31-minute mark for the first major with Dal Santo kicking truly from directly in front to get his side to within 22 points at quarter-time.

Despite dominating the clearances and entering inside their forward 50 12 more times than the Kangaroos in the first-half, the Saints still trailed by 13 points at the main break after kicking a wasteful 2.4 in the second term.

Goals were hard to come by in the third term with the first major of the quarter not kicked until the 12-minute mark through Swallow.

The Saints responded through Koschitzke and Riewoldt to level the scores before Swallow gave his side back the lead with his second.

But their joy was short-lived with late majors from Koschitzke and Clinton Jones giving the Saints a seven-point buffer at three-quarter time.

Fatigue was clearly starting to set in for the Kangaroos and the more experienced Saints took full advantage, slamming on the first four goals of the final stanza through James Gwilt, Koschitzke and Riewoldt to put the result beyond doubt.

NORTH MELBOURNE: 5.1, 7.2, 8.3, 9.3 (57)
ST KILDA: 1.3, 4.7, 8.10, 15.13 (103)
GOALS: North Melbourne: Swallow 2, Warren, Edwards, Thomas, Petrie, Firrito, Simpson, Ross
St Kilda: Koschitzke 6, Riewoldt 3, Schneider 2, Gwilt, Dal Santo, Jones, Gram
BEST: North Melbourne: Firrito, Simpson, Harding, Swallow, McMahon, McIntosh
St Kilda: Koschitzke, Gram, Riewoldt, Hayes, Montagna, Ball
INJURIES: North Melbourne: Warren (fractured cheekbone), Power (concussion), Wright (knee)
St Kilda: TBC
REPORTS: TBC
CHANGES: Edwards replaced Ziebell (illness) in North Melbourne's selected side
UMPIRES: Dalgleish, Wenn, Jeffery
CROWD: 30,962 at Etihad Stadium

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Rawlings new Tigers coach

June 6th 2009 02:29
JADE Rawlings has been named as Richmond's caretaker coach for the rest of the season.

Rawlings takes over from Terry Wallace who coached the Tigers for the last time at Etihad Stadium on Friday night against the Western Bulldogs.

The 31-year-old, who has been coach of Richmond's VFL affiliate, Coburg Tigers, for the past two years, beat fellow Richmond assistant coaches Wayne Campbell, Craig McRae and David King for the job.

Rawlings played 145 games at Hawthorn, North Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs from 1996-2006.

The playing group was informed of the club's decision to appoint Rawlings at a team meeting on Saturday morning.
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Round eleven preview: Port Adelaide v Fremantle

June 5th 2009 15:34
VENUE and TIME: AAMI Stadium, Saturday 6 June, 7.40pm (AEST)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 19, Port Adelaide 13, Fremantle 6

LAST TIME: Fremantle 20.9 (129) def Port Adelaide 15.11 (101), Round 17, 2008 at AAMI Stadium

RECENT HISTORY: Port Adelaide has won three of its past four against Fremantle but the Dockers won the most recent clash between these two sides which was held at AAMI Stadium.

FORM: Port Adelaide has lost its past two matches to Sydney and Port Adelaide to slip out of the top eight. The Power currently find themselves in 10th place on the AFL ladder with a 5-5 win-loss record. Fremantle lost its third straight match when they went down to Richmond by three points in a thrilling contest at Subiaco Oval last Saturday night. The Dockers have won just three of their first ten matches.

MEDICAL ROOM: Port Adelaide will be without star utility Chad Cornes and Matt Thomas who suffered knee injuries in the loss to Collingwood while Daniel Motlop (ankle) will miss another week. Shaun Burgoyne is a month away from returning from a knee injury while Justin Westhoff is expected to make his return from a foot injury via the SANFL. For the Dockers, Kepler Bradley returns from a knee injury but Michael Johnson (ankle) and Des Headland (quad) have been ruled out for two to three weeks while Luke McPharlin (hip) and defender Antoni Grover (calf) will also miss. Luke Pratt (knee) remain on the sidelines while Chris Mayne (stress fracture) is at least a fortnight away from playing.

KEY MATCH-UPS: Troy Chaplin vs. Matthew Pavlich

Pavlich has spent some time in the midfield this season but with McPharlin and Johnson unavailable he will most likely spend most of his time up forward on Saturday night.

Chaplin has the height and mobility to match-up Pavlich and will most likely be given first crack at the Fremantle skipper.

In last weekend’s loss to the Tigers the Dockers moved the football quickly through the middle of the ground early on but slowly went away from what worked for them in the first quarter.

They will need to be quick and clean with their use of the football going forward all night to give Pavlich the best chance of having an influence on the match otherwise they will be punished on the rebound by the likes of Chaplin who has averaged 19 possessions per game in 2009.

Chris Tarrant vs. Warren Tredrea

Tredrea has been Port’s most consistent forward so far in 2009, booting 30 goals in ten games to sit seventh on the goal kicking ladder.

The Port veteran was among his side’s best in the round 17 clash with four goals in a performance that earned him the one Brownlow medal vote.

Keeping him quiet will be a key for the Dockers if they are going to snap a three-game losing streak.

Tarrant has impressed down back so far this season and looms as the obvious candidate to match-up on the former Power skipper in what shapes as being a pivotal duel in determining the outcome of this match.

Port is at their best when they are allowed to break the lines, so if Fremantle can suffocate their run with their pressure skills, Tredrea will struggle to receive enough quality supply to have a meaningful impact.

Kane Cornes vs. Paul Hasleby

Hasleby continued his brilliant start to the season with 27 possessions and one goal in the loss to the Tigers.

The 27-year-old is an integral part of the Dockers midfield with his ability to win the football and use it cleanly by hand to find his teammates in space.

Port will be keen to limit his influence at the stoppages as it will help shut-down Fremantle’s running game.

Cornes is Port’s number one stopper in the middle and will be given the job of running with Hasleby.

Expect Cornes, who collected a game-high 39 possessions the last time these two sides met in round 17 last year, to try and hurt Hasleby going the other way.

Garrick Ibbotson vs. Danyle Pearce

Pearce was among his side’s best in the loss to the Magpies with 27 disposals, one goal and nine inside 50’s.

The 2006 NAB Rising star winner is having his most consistent season and is damaging with his ability to break the lines and pump the football inside 50.

Fremantle will need to shut-down his run and carry if they are going to contain a Power side that is capable of scoring heavily when it is on song.

Ibbotson, who has been given some big run with roles in recent times, looms as the obvious candidate to match-up on Pearce as he has the pace to go with the exciting 23-year-old.

The Dockers will need Ibbotson, who has averaged just under 20 possessions per game this season, to be proactive as it will force Pearce to be accountable.

VERDICT: Port Adelaide has been the epitome of inconsistency so far this season while Fremantle has shown some good signs in the past three weeks without getting over the line. Given the unpredictability of both sides it is hard to pick a winner in this contest but the Power should get up with the Dockers likely to be exposed for their lack of experience in defence. Power by 27 points.

PORT ADELAIDE v FREMANTLE
PORT ADELAIDE
B: Michael Pettigrew, Alipate Carlile, Jacob Surjan
HB: Steven Salopek, Troy Chaplin, Peter Burgoyne
C: Hamish Hartlett, Domenic Cassisi, Travis Boak
HF: Robert Gray, Warren Tredrea, David Rodan
F: Brett Ebert, Brendon Lade, Josh Carr
Foll: Dean Brogan, Kane Cornes, Danyle Pearce
I/C: Marlon Motlop, Toby Thurstans, Matthew Westhoff, Tom Logan
Emg: Matthew Broadbent, Justin Westhoff, Nick Lower

In: M. Motlop, Carr, Thurstans
Out: Chad Cornes (knee), Matt Thomas (knee), Nathan Krakouer

FREMANTLE
B: Greg Broughton, Dean Solomon, Scott Thornton
HB: Nic Suban, Steven Dodd, Stephen Hill
C: Josh Head, Paul Hasleby, Garrick Ibbotson
HF: Paul Duffield, Matthew Pavlich, Andrew Foster
F: Brett Peake, Chris Tarrant, Kepler Bradley
Foll: Aaron Sandilands, Byron Schammer, David Mundy
I/C: Adam Campbell, Matt de Boer, Clancee Pearce, Hayden Ballantyne
Emg: Clayton Hinkley, Ryan Murphy, Daniel Gilmore

In: Ballantyne, Pearce, Bradley, Campbell
Out: Des Headland (quad), Michael Johnson (ankle), Luke McPharlin (hip), Antoni Grover (calf)

New: Hayden Ballantyne (Peel Thunder), Clancee Peare (Swan Districts)

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Round eleven preview: Brisbane v Carlton

June 5th 2009 14:00
VENUE and TIME: The Gabba, Saturday 6 April, 7.10pm (AEST)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 34, Brisbane 14, Carlton 20

LAST TIME: Carlton 18.11 (119) def Brisbane 15.10 (100), Round 2 2009 at The Gabba

RECENT HISTORY: Carlton has won its past two against Brisbane including the most recent clash between these two sides at the Gabba in round 21, 2008.

MEDICAL ROOM: Brisbane is expected to be without defenders Joel Patfull (broken jaw) and Daniel Merrett (ankle) for another two to three weeks while Jamie Charman (ankle - three weeks), Bradd Dalziell (knee - four weeks) and Matthew Leuenberger (knee - eight weeks) are also on the sidelines. For the Blues, Andrew Carrazzo, Heath Scotland and Shaun Grigg return from injury but Simon Wiggins is at least two weeks away from returning from a hamstring injury while utility Jarrad Waite (knee) is out for the season.

FORM: Brisbane has won four of its past five matches since being thumped to the tune of 93 points by Geelong in round five. The Lions currently occupy fourth place on the AFL ladder with a 6-4 win-loss record. Carlton bounced back from a disappointing loss to Adelaide with a 41-point demolition of West Coast. The Blues are in fifth spot with five from their first ten matches.

KEY MATCH-UPS: Aaron Joseph vs. Simon Black

Black was among his side’s best in the win over the Kangaroos with 23 touches, one goal and six inside 50’s.

The 2002 Brownlow medallist is damaging with his ability to not only win the football at the stoppages but also deliver it cleanly inside 50.

Limiting his influence in the middle will be a key for the Blues if they are going to contain Brisbane’s star forwards in Jonathan Brown and Daniel Bradshaw.

Joseph did a good job on West Coast star Daniel Kerr last weekend and will be given the job of running with the classy Lions veteran.

The Blues youngster is a traditional tagger in the sense that he isn’t overly concerned with winning the football, so the Lions will need to block for Black at the stoppages if he is going to break what is expected to be a tight tag.

Joel Macdonald vs. Brendan Fevola

Fevola returned to form against West Coast, booting six goals to take his season tally to 31 majors.

The Blues spearhead booted five goals the last time these two sides met and will need to be contained if the Lions are going to secure a valuable win.

With Merrett and Patfull on the sidelines you would expect Macdonald to be given first crack at Fevola in what shapes as being a crucial match-up in determining the outcome of this contest.

Brisbane coach Michael Voss admitted during the week that his side has been smashed at the stoppages in recent weeks.

The Lions will need to lift their work-rate otherwise the much-vaunted Blues on-ball division will be able to dictate terms and provide Fevola with enough quality supply to kick a bag.

Cheynee Stiller vs. Chris Judd

Judd generated plenty of run in the win over the Eagles with 29 possessions, one goal and nine inside 50’s.

The last time these two sides met in round two Judd was just as influential with 25 touches, one goal and seven inside 50’s.

Shutting down his run and carry will be a key for the Lions if they are going to have any hope of containing a Blues forward line that is the fourth most potent in the AFL.

Stiller has kept Nick Dal Santo and Daniel Wells quiet in the past fortnight and will be given the task of running with the Carlton skipper.

Brisbane will need Stiller to deny Judd apply relentless pressure all night otherwise Judd will continually win the football in close, break the lines and deliver it lace out to Brendan Fevola and co.

Michael Jamison vs. Daniel Bradshaw

Bradshaw wreaked havoc in the second half of the round three clash between these two sides and nearly got his side over the line - he finished the match with six goals.

The Lions veteran looms as a main danger man for Brett Ratten’s men given that he has booted 12 goals in his past two matches against the Blues.

Jamison was on Bradshaw before suffering a shoulder injury in the clash earlier in the season and will be given the job on the Brisbane veteran once again.

If the Lions are able to get the football quickly into the forward line Bradshaw and Brown are more than capable of causing plenty of headaches for a Blues backline that has shown some good signs but is still relatively inexperienced.

VERDICT: This is a crucial match for both sides with Brisbane needing to keep winning to consolidate their place in the top four while Carlton has to start stringing wins together if they are serious about playing finals for the first time since 2001. While the Blues were impressive last weekend they are yet to win on the road in 2009 and don’t expect that to change on Saturday night with Jonathan Brown and Bradshaw likely to lead their side to victory in what shapes as being yet another high-scoring affair between these two teams.Lions by 14 points.

BRISBANE LIONS v CARLTON
BRISBANE LIONS
B: Ashley McGrath, Joel Macdonald, Jed Adcock
HB: Sam Sheldon, Lachlan Henderson, Josh Drummond
C: Scott Harding, Simon Black, Daniel Rich
HF: Michael Rischitelli, Jonathan Brown, James Polkinghorne
F: Rhan Hooper, Daniel Bradshaw, Luke Power
Foll: Mitch Clark, Cheynee Stiller, Justin Sherman
I/C: Tim Notting, Albert Proud, Jared Brennan, Travis Johnstone
Emg: Matt Austin, Aaron Cornelius, Jack Redden

In: Johnstone
Out: Matt Austin

CARLTON
B: Dennis Armfield, Michael Jamison, Paul Bower
HB: Nick Stevens, Bret Thornton, Bryce Gibbs
C: Kade Simpson, Aaron Joseph, Heath Scotland
HF: Brad Fisher, Setanta O’hAilpin, Andrew Carrazzo
F: Shaun Hampson, Brendan Fevola, Eddie Betts
Foll: Matthew Kreuzer, Chris Judd, Marc Murphy
I/C: Steven Browne, Jeff Garlett, Shaun Grigg, Ryan Houlihan
Emg: Mark Austin, Mitch Robinson, Jordan Russell

In: Carrazzo, Grigg, Scotland
Out: Mark Austin, Mitch Robinson, Jordan Russell
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Round eleven preview: North Melbourne v St Kilda

June 5th 2009 13:33
VENUE and TIME: Etihad Stadium, Saturday 6 June, 2.10pm (AEST)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 143, North Melbourne 70, St Kilda 71, Draws 2

LAST TIME: St Kilda 12.12 (84) def North Melbourne 9.15 (69), Round 14 2008 at Carrara

RECENT HISTORY: St Kilda has won three of its past four against North Melbourne with two of those wins coming at Etihad Stadium.

MEDICAL ROOM: North welcome back defenders Daniel Pratt and Nathan Grima, midfielder Sam Power and small forward Matt Campbell from injury but skipper Brent Harvey (dislocated elbow), Jesse Smith (hamstring) and Ed Lower (knee) are still unavailable. For the Saints, Sam Gilbert will miss with an ankle injury sustained in the win over Melbourne while Stephen Milne (knee) will be out for at least another week.

FORM: The Kangaroos are yet to string together consecutive wins this season and finds themselves in 12th place on the AFL ladder with just four wins from their first ten matches. St Kilda maintained its unbeaten start to the season with a solid win over Melbourne last Saturday night. The Saints were challenged early before booting four unanswered goals in the second half to record a 37-point victory.

KEY MATCH-UPS: Zac Dawson vs. David Hale

Hale has been very inconsistent so far this season - he backed up his five goal performance against Fremantle with just six possessions and two majors against the Lions.

North will need him to have a major impact if they are going to end St Kilda’s unbeaten start to the season.

Dawson has been very impressive in defence in 2009, taking on some of the competition’s biggest forwards and more than holding his own.

The former Hawk will undoubtedly be given first crack at Hale in what shapes as being a crucial match-up.

Former Kangaroos skipper Adam Simpson admitted during the week that his side was guilty of trying to find the perfect kick in the loss to the Lions rather than just getting the football inside 50.

If Hale is going to have any hope of winning his duel with Dawson he will need his teammates to be long and direct with their use of the football otherwise the Saints will be able to push numbers back and continually rebound it out of defensive 50.

Brady Rawlings vs. Nick Dal Santo

Dal Santo continued his superb start to the season with 31 possessions and five inside 50’s against the Demons.

The classy 25-year-old is damaging with his ability to set up scoring opportunities for his teammates with his clean use of the football.

The Roos will need to keep him quiet if they are going to have any hope of containing St Kilda’s multi-pronged attack.

Rawlings is North’s best stopper in the midfield and will have the unenviable task of tagging the Saints star.

The Kangaroos will need Rawlings to deny Dal Santo any time or space in which to dispose of the football cleanly otherwise he will continually deliver the football lace out to Nick Riewoldt, Justin Koschitzke and co.

Clinton Jones vs. Daniel Wells

The last time these two sides met in round 14 last year Wells was among his side’s best with 25 disposals, one goal and four inside 50’s.

Wells is one of the few North player’s that is capable of breaking down the St Kilda zone with his run and carry, so the Saints will be keen to quell his influence in the middle.

Jones has claimed the scalps of Travis Johnstone and Aaron Davey in the past fortnight and will be given the task of tagging Wells on Saturday afternoon.

Not only does Jones suffocate his opponents with his fierce tackling but he also has the ability to hurt them going the other way.

Josh Gibson vs. Nick Riewoldt

Riewoldt was his side’s most productive forward in the win over the Demons, booting four goals to take his season tally to 32 majors.

The Saints skipper is currently in All-Australian form and will need to be contained if the Kangaroos are going to have any hope of causing one of, if not the biggest upset of the season.

Gibson kept Brisbane skipper Jonathan Brown to just two goals last weekend and looms as the obvious candidate to match-up on Riewoldt.

The underrated North defender will need his teammates to suffocate the Saints midfield with their pressure skills otherwise Riewoldt will boot yet another bag as he is virtually unstoppable on the lead.

VERDICT: St Kilda will eventually suffer a loss at some stage this season but it is extremely unlikely that it will come at the hands of an incredibly inconsistent North Melbourne outfit. The Kangaroos will try hard all day as they always do but the Saints simply have too many in-form players for Dean Laidley’s men to contain and should cruise to their 11th straight win. Saints by 44 points.

NORTH MELBOURNE v ST KILDA
NORTH MELBOURNE
B: Nathan Grima, Scott Thompson, Scott McMahon
HB: Gavin Urquhart, Josh Gibson, Daniel Pratt
C: Ben Ross, Jack Ziebell, Sam Wright
HF: Daniel Wells, Drew Petrie, Lindsay Thomas
F: Ben Warren, David Hale, Matt Campbell
Foll: Hamish McIntosh, Adam Simpson, Leigh Harding
I/C: Brady Rawlings, Sam Power, Andrew Swallow, Michael Firrito
Emg: Daniel Harris, Corey Jones, Todd Goldstein

In: Power, Pratt, Campbell, Grima
Out: Levi Greenwood, Todd Goldstein, Daniel Harris, Aaron Edwards

ST KILDA
B: Jason Blake, Max Hudghton, Zac Dawson
HB: Steven Baker, Sam Fisher, Brendon Goddard
C: Farren Ray, Luke Ball, Nick Dal Santo
HF: Jason Gram, Nick Riewoldt, Adam Schneider
F: Lenny Hayes, Justin Koschitzke, Raphael Clarke
Foll: Steven King, Clint Jones, Leigh Montagna
I/C: Jarryn Geary, James Gwilt, Ben McEvoy, Andrew McQualter
Emg: Matt Maguire, David Armitage, Luke Miles

In: Hudghton, McEvoy
Out: Michael Gardiner (susp), Sam Gilbert (ankle)
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Wallace's reign ends on sour note

June 5th 2009 13:06
THE Western Bulldogs have denied outgoing Richmond coach Terry Wallace a fairytale ending, thumping the Tigers to the tune of 68 points at Etihad Stadium on Friday night.

The Bulldogs took control of the contest in the third term before cruising to a convincing 24.13 (157) to 14.5 (89) victory.

Richmond started brightly but they fell away badly after half-time, managing just 2.3 in the second half.

Adam Cooney was damaging with a game-high 33 possessions and one goal while Matthew Boyd and Jarrod Harbrow were also prolific with 28 touches apiece.

Liam Picken did a superb blanketing job on Brett Deledio, restricting the Richmond young gun to just 13 possessions while Daniel Giansiracusa showed his class with 22 disposals and two goals.

The Dogs had 14 individual goal kickers for the match - Josh Hill the most effective with four while classy youngster Shaun Higgins chimed in with three majors.

For the Tigers, Shane Tuck, Joel Bowden, Nathan Foley and Daniel Jackson, racked up 30-plus disposals while Jack Riewoldt and Mitch Morton booted three goals apiece.

Andrew Collins showed he is a player of the future with 24 possessions and one goal while Ben Cousins was influential with 21 touches.

Morton was on fire in the opening stanza, booting three goals for the term but the Bulldogs managed four of their own to ensure both sides went into quarter-time on level terms.

Richmond hit the front in the second term when Riewoldt kicked his second but the Tigers joy was short-lived as the Dogs slammed on seven of the next nine majors to skip out to what appeared to be an unassailable 27-point lead deep into time-on.

But the Tigers lifted their rating and hit back with five unanswered goals in a stunning eight-minute burst to go into half-time with a two-point advantage.

Picken booted two of the first three goals of the third term to help his side skip out to a 16-point lead.

Kayne Pettifer had a chance to get the Tigers back into the contest but his shot from 20m hit the post.

It proved to be a costly miss as the Dogs piled on the last four goals of the term to open up a match-winning 42-point break at three-quarter time before adding a further six majors in the final stanza to cap off an impressive win.

RICHMOND: 4.2, 12.2, 12.4, 14.5 (89)
WESTERN BULLDOGS: 4.2, 11.6, 18.10, 24.13 (157)
GOALS: Richmond: Morton 3, Riewoldt 3, Pattison 2, Tuck 2, Deledio, Collins, McMahon, Polo
Western Bulldogs: Hill 4, Higgins 3, Picken 2, Johnson 2, Giansiracusa 2, Hahn 2, Gilbee 2, Hargrave, Boyd, Griffen, Akermanis, Ward, Cooney, Eagleton
BEST: Richmond: Jackson, Newman, Foley, Collins, Cousins, Riewoldt, Morton
Western Bulldogs: Cooney, Harbrow, Higgins, Boyd, Minson, Giansiracusa, Picken
INJURIES: Richmond: TBC
Western Bulldogs: TBC
REPORTS: TBC
CHANGES: Stack replaced Murphy in Western Bulldogs's selected side
UMPIRES: Chamberlain, Meredith, McInerney
CROWD: 36,483 at Etihad Stadium
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Ebert re-signs

June 5th 2009 11:55
WEST COAST midfielder Brad Ebert has re-signed with the Eagles but the club would not diclose any details of the new contract.

The former South Australian under 18s captain, who was taken with pick 13 in the 2007 national draft, is looking forward to playing his role in West Coast's rise back up the ladder.

"I am very happy to get the opportunity to extend my career with the West Coast Eagles," Ebert said.

"It is an exciting time at the club and with such a young list, we are all looking forward to achieving big things together."

"The West Coast Eagles have been good to me, I am enjoying my time at the club and we are all looking forward to future success."

Eagles coach John Worsfold was delighted to have secured the promising 19-year-old's signature.

"Brad is a highly regarded player within our senior squad and is one of a number of exciting youngsters on our list," Worsfold said.

"He has already given us an insight into his ability, both as a player and a leader, and we are looking forward to seeing him evolve even further."

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Murphy out

June 5th 2009 08:46
THE Western Bulldogs have suffered a blow ahead of Friday night's clash against Richmond at Etihad Stadium with classy forward Robert Murphy a late withdrawal.

Murphy has been replaced by youngster Brennan Stack who will play his first game for the club.

Richmond will enter Terry Wallace's last game as coach unchanged.
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AFL Teams: Round Eleven

June 5th 2009 07:12
2009 Toyota AFL Premiership Season

ROUND ELEVEN (All times local)

Friday June 5
Richmond v Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium, 7.40pm

Saturday June 6
North Melbourne v St Kilda at Etihad Stadium, 2.10pm
Brisbane Lions v Carlton at the Gabba, 7.10pm
Port Adelaide v Fremantle at AAMI Stadium, 7.10pm

Sunday June 7
Essendon v Adelaide at Etihad Stadium 1.10pm
Hawthorn v Sydney Swans at the MCG, 2.10pm
West Coast Eagles v Geelong at Subiaco Oval, 2.40pm

Monday June 8
Melbourne v Collingwood at the MCG, 2.10pm

RICHMOND v WESTERN BULLDOGS
RICHMOND
B: Chris Newman, Kelvin Moore, Dean Polo
HB: Joel Bowden, Luke McGuane, Will Thursfield
C: Andrew Collins, Shane Tuck, Brett Deledio
HF: Richard Tambling, Jack Riewoldt, Ben Cousins
F: Adam Pattison, Mitch Morton, Kayne Pettifer
Foll: Troy Simmonds, Daniel Jackson, Nathan Foley
I/C: Trent Cotchin, Jordan McMahon, Alex Rance, Mark Coughlan
Emg: Shane Edwards, Adam Thomson, Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls

In: Rance, McMahon, Coughlan
Out: Matthew White (hamstring), Nathan Brown (groin), Robin Nahas (quad)

WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: Jarrod Harbrow, Brian Lake, Stephen Tiller
HB: Lindsay Gilbee, Dale Morris, Ryan Hargrave
C: Liam Picken, Matthew Boyd, Daniel Cross
HF: Shaun Higgins, Mitch Hahn, Nathan Eagleton
F: Jason Akermanis, Will Minson, Brad Johnson
Foll: Ben Hudson, Adam Cooney, Ryan Griffen
I/C: Daniel Giansiracusa, Josh Hill, Robert Murphy, Callan Ward
Emg: Andrejs Everitt, Brennan Stack, Tim Callan

In: Murphy
Out: Scott Welsh (susp)

NORTH MELBOURNE v ST KILDA
NORTH MELBOURNE
B: Nathan Grima, Scott Thompson, Scott McMahon
HB: Gavin Urquhart, Josh Gibson, Daniel Pratt
C: Ben Ross, Jack Ziebell, Sam Wright
HF: Daniel Wells, Drew Petrie, Lindsay Thomas
F: Ben Warren, David Hale, Matt Campbell
Foll: Hamish McIntosh, Adam Simpson, Leigh Harding
I/C: Brady Rawlings, Sam Power, Andrew Swallow, Michael Firrito
Emg: Daniel Harris, Corey Jones, Todd Goldstein

In: Power, Pratt, Campbell, Grima
Out: Levi Greenwood, Todd Goldstein, Daniel Harris, Aaron Edwards

ST KILDA
B: Jason Blake, Max Hudghton, Zac Dawson
HB: Steven Baker, Sam Fisher, Brendon Goddard
C: Farren Ray, Luke Ball, Nick Dal Santo
HF: Jason Gram, Nick Riewoldt, Adam Schneider
F: Lenny Hayes, Justin Koschitzke, Raphael Clarke
Foll: Steven King, Clint Jones, Leigh Montagna
I/C: Jarryn Geary, James Gwilt, Ben McEvoy, Andrew McQualter
Emg: Matt Maguire, David Armitage, Luke Miles

In: Hudghton, McEvoy
Out: Michael Gardiner (susp), Sam Gilbert (ankle)

BRISBANE LIONS v CARLTON
BRISBANE LIONS
B: Ashley McGrath, Joel Macdonald, Jed Adcock
HB: Sam Sheldon, Lachlan Henderson, Josh Drummond
C: Scott Harding, Simon Black, Daniel Rich
HF: Michael Rischitelli, Jonathan Brown, James Polkinghorne
F: Rhan Hooper, Daniel Bradshaw, Luke Power
Foll: Mitch Clark, Cheynee Stiller, Justin Sherman
I/C: Tim Notting, Albert Proud, Jared Brennan, Travis Johnstone
Emg: Matt Austin, Aaron Cornelius, Jack Redden

In: Johnstone
Out: Matt Austin

CARLTON
B: Dennis Armfield, Michael Jamison, Paul Bower
HB: Nick Stevens, Bret Thornton, Bryce Gibbs
C: Kade Simpson, Aaron Joseph, Heath Scotland
HF: Brad Fisher, Setanta O’hAilpin, Andrew Carrazzo
F: Shaun Hampson, Brendan Fevola, Eddie Betts
Foll: Matthew Kreuzer, Chris Judd, Marc Murphy
I/C: Steven Browne, Jeff Garlett, Shaun Grigg, Ryan Houlihan
Emg: Mark Austin, Mitch Robinson, Jordan Russell

In: Carrazzo, Grigg, Scotland
Out: Mark Austin, Mitch Robinson, Jordan Russell

PORT ADELAIDE v FREMANTLE
PORT ADELAIDE
B: Michael Pettigrew, Alipate Carlile, Jacob Surjan
HB: Steven Salopek, Troy Chaplin, Peter Burgoyne
C: Hamish Hartlett, Dom Cassisi, Travis Boak
HF: Robert Gray, Warren Tredrea, David Rodan
F: Brett Ebert, Brendon Lade, Josh Carr
Foll: Dean Brogan, Kane Cornes, Danyle Pearce
I/C: Marlon Motlop, Toby Thurstans, Matthew Westhoff, Tom Logan
Emg: Matthew Broadbent, Justin Westhoff, Nick Lower

In: M. Motlop, Carr, Thurstans
Out: Chad Cornes (knee), Matt Thomas (knee), Nathan Krakouer

FREMANTLE
B: Greg Broughton, Dean Solomon, Scott Thornton
HB: Nic Suban, Steven Dodd, Stephen Hill
C: Josh Head, Paul Hasleby, Garrick Ibbotson
HF: Paul Duffield, Matthew Pavlich, Andrew Foster
F: Brett Peake, Chris Tarrant, Kepler Bradley
Foll: Aaron Sandilands, Byron Schammer, David Mundy
I/C: Adam Campbell, Matt de Boer, Clancee Pearce, Hayden Ballantyne
Emg: Clayton Hinkley, Ryan Murphy, Daniel Gilmore

In: Ballantyne, Pearce, Bradley, Campbell
Out: Des Headland (quad), Michael Johnson (ankle), Luke McPharlin (hip), Antoni Grover (calf)

New: Hayden Ballantyne (Peel Thunder), Clancee Pearce (Swan Districts)

ESSENDON v ADELAIDE
ESSENDON
B: Courtenay Dempsey, Tayte Pears, Mark McVeigh
HB: Brent Stanton, Adam McPhee, Cale Hooker
C: Ricky Dyson, Heath Hocking, Kyle Reimers
HF: Angus Monfries, Jay Neagle, Andrew Lovett
F: Alwyn Davey, Matthew Lloyd, Sam Lonergan
Foll: Patrick Ryder, Jobe Watson, Brent Prismall
I/C: David Zaharakis, Bachar Houli, Scott Lucas, Hayden Skipworth
Emg: Leroy Jetta, Tyson Slattery, Darcy Daniher

In: Dempsey, Lucas, Prismall, Reimers
Out: Henry Slattery (hamstring), Jason Winderlich (ankle), Tom Bellchambers (knee), Leroy Jetta

New: Brent Prismall (Geelong)

ADELAIDE
B: Graham Johncock, Ben Rutten, Andy Otten
HB: Michael Doughty, Nathan Bock, Andrew McLeod
C: Chris Knights, Simon Goodwin, David Mackay
HF: Nathan van Berlo, Kurt Tippett, Bernie Vince
F: Jason Porplyzia, Taylor Walker, Scott Stevens
Foll: Brad Moran, Tyson Edwards, Scott Thompson
I/C (from): Brent Reilly, Brad Symes, Ivan Maric, Richard Douglas, James Sellar, Patrick Dangerfield, Jared Petrenko

In: Reilly, Petrenko, Sellar
Out: -

HAWTHORN v SYDNEY SWANS
HAWTHORN
B: Brent Guerra, Thomas Murphy, Campbell Brown
HB: Xavier Ellis, Luke Hodge, Grant Birchall
C: Beau Muston, Sam Mitchell, Liam Shiels
HF: Chance Bateman, Lance Franklin, Ben McGlynn
F: Cyril Rioli, Jarryd Roughead, Michael Osborne
Foll: Simon Taylor, Brad Sewell, Jordan Lewis
I/C (from): Robert Campbell, Stuart Dew, Jarryd Morton, Brent Renouf, Travis Tuck, Brendan Whitecross, Mark Williams

In: Hodge, Renouf, Tuck
Out: -

SYDNEY SWANS
B: Craig Bolton, Lewis Roberts-Thomson, Martin Mattner
HB: Rhyce Shaw, Ted Richards, Jared Crouch
C: Adam Goodes, Brett Kirk, Amon Buchanan
HF: Paul Bevan, Ryan O’Keefe, Kieren Jack
F: Heath Grundy, Barry Hall, Michael O’Loughlin
Foll: Darren Jolly, Jarrad McVeigh, Jude Bolton
I/C (from): Ed Barlow, Craig Bird, Nick Malceski, Jarred Moore, Mike Pyke, Kristin Thornton, Jesse White

In: Barlow, Bird, Pyke, Thornton
Out: Ablett

WEST COAST v GEELONG
WEST COAST
B: Shannon Hurn, Darren Glass, Mark Nicoski
HB: Andrew Embley, Eric Mackenzie, Adam Selwood
C: Matt Rosa, Tom Swift, Tyson Stenglein
HF: Jamie McNamara, Josh Kennedy, Scott Selwood
F: Mark LeCras, Quinten Lynch, Ben McKinley
Foll: Dean Cox, Chris Masten, Brad Ebert
I/C (from): Mitch Brown, Chad Fletcher, Tim Houlihan, Adam Hunter, Matt Spangher, Matt Priddis, Mark Seaby

In: Fletcher, Priddis, Seaby, Houlihan, Spangher
Out: Daniel Kerr (susp), David Wirrpanda (hamstring)

GEELONG
B: Darren Milburn, Matthew Scarlett, Andrew Mackie
HB: Corey Enright, Tom Lonergan, James Kelly
C: Steve Johnson, Gary Ablett, Travis Varcoe
HF: Jimmy Bartel, Tom Hawkins, Mathew Stokes
F: Paul Chapman, Cameron Mooney, Shannon Byrnes
Foll: Mark Blake, Joel Selwood, Cameron Ling
I/C: Ryan Gamble, Shane Mumford, David Wojcinski, Nathan Djerrkura
Emg: David Johnson, Max Rooke, Joel Corey

In: Lonergan, Stokes, Gamble, Chapman
Out: Harry Taylor (ankle), Tom Harley (hamstring), Max Rooke, David Johnson

MELBOURNE v COLLINGWOOD
MELBOURNE
B: Matthew Whelan, Matthew Warnock, Daniel Bell
HB: James Frawley, Jared Rivers, Aaron Davey
C: Jack Grimes, Cale Morton, Brock McLean
HF: Colin Sylvia, Russell Robertson, Jack Watts
F: Brad Green, Matthew Bate, Cameron Bruce
Foll: Mark Jamar, Brent Moloney, James McDonald
I/C (from): Paul Johnson, Addam Maric, Nathan Jones, Jamie Bennell, Kyle Cheney, Lynden Dunn, Michael Newton

In: Robertson, Watts, Dunn, Cheney, Newton
Out: Brad Miller, Stefan Martin

COLLINGWOOD
B: Harry O’Brien, Simon Prestigiacomo, Shannon Cox
HB: Nick Maxwell, Leigh Brown, Sharrod Wellingham
C: Brad Dick, Tarkyn Lockyer, Dale Thomas
HF: Scott Pendlebury, Travis Cloke, Leon Davis
F: Alan Didak, John Anthony, Heath Shaw
Foll: Josh Fraser, Dane Swan, Shane O’Bree
I/C (from): Nathan Brown, Martin Clarke, Paul Medhurst, Ben Reid, Steele Sidebottom, Alan Toovey, Cameron Wood

In: Travis Cloke, Paul Medhurst, Ben Reid
Out: -

Melbourne and Collingwood will file their final sides at 4pm AEST on Saturday.

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Round eleven preview: Richmond v Western Bulldogs

June 4th 2009 15:00
VENUE and TIME: Etihad Stadium, Friday 5 June, 7.40pm (AEST)

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 143, Richmond 75, Western Bulldogs 66, Draws 2

LAST TIME: Western Bulldogs 16.14 (110) def Richmond 8.15 (63), Round 3 2009 at Etihad Stadium

RECENT HISTORY: The Western Bulldogs have won five of the past six clashes between these two sides with the other result during that stretch being a draw in round five, 2008.

FORM: Richmond broke through for just its second win of the season last weekend, downing Fremantle by three points in a thrilling contest at Subiaco Oval on Saturday night. The Western Bulldogs bounced back from the heartbreaking loss to Geelong with a 40-point demolition of Sydney at Manuka Oval last Saturday afternoon. The Dogs currently occupy third place on the AFL ladder with a 6-4 win-loss record.

MEDICAL ROOM: Richmond welcomes back promising young defender Alex Rance from a fractured cheekbone but will be without midfielder Matt White (hamstring), Nathan Brown (groin) and Robin Nahas (quad). Former skipper Kane Johnson (knee) and veteran Matthew Richardson (hamstring) are also on the sidelines. For the Bulldogs, classy forward Robert Murphy returns from a hamstring injury but defender Tom Williams (foot) is still unavailable.

KEY MATCH-UPS: Daniel Jackson vs. Adam Cooney

Cooney was among his side’s best in the win over the Swans with 24 disposals and two goals.

The 2008 Brownlow medallist played a key role in the Bulldogs’ 47-point victory over the Tigers in round three, helping himself to 21 touches, one goal and nine inside 50’s.

Richmond will need to shut-down Cooney’s run and carry if they are going to contain the Dogs’ dangerous mid-sized forwards.

Jackson has been one of his side’s most consistent players so far in 2009 and has been far from disgraced in his role as a tagger.

Expect Jackson to be given the task of tagging Cooney on Friday night in what shapes as being a pivotal duel.

While Jackson needs to deny the Bulldogs star any time or space at the stoppages he also needs to be proactive and get his hands on the football and test out the defensive side of Cooney’s game.

Liam Picken vs. Brett Deledio

Deledio was instrumental in the Tigers’ thrilling win over the Dockers with 27 possessions, ten marks, two goals and seven inside 50’s.

His willingness to run hard and play on at all costs helped the Tigers break the game wide open in the third term.

When these two sides met earlier in the year Picken did a superb blanketing job on Deledio, restricting him to just 16 disposals.

Deledio faces another tough night at the office with Picken likely to be given the job on the Richmond young gun once again.

If Deledio is going to have any hope of having a major impact on the contest he will need his teammates to block for him otherwise Picken will be allowed to employ a tight tag all night.

Chris Newman vs. Jason Akermanis

Akermanis was well below his best in the win over Sydney but looms as a danger man for the Tigers given that he booted four goals in the round three clash, including three unanswered early in the final term to put the result beyond doubt.

The former Brisbane Lions champion rarely has two bad games in a row and will need to be contained if Richmond is going to have any hope of securing back-to-back wins for the first time this season.

Newman has the ability to match Akermanis when he goes forward and also when he pushes into the midfield, so you would expect him to be given first crack at the 2001 Brownlow medallist.

In the first quarter of the round three clash between these two sides the Tigers suffocated the Dogs’ run with their immense pressure but their intensity dropped off badly after that.

They will need to apply relentless pressure all night otherwise the Dogs will be able to move the football quickly and cleanly into the likes of Akermanis.

Brian Lake vs. Jack Riewoldt

With Richardson, Brown and Nahas on the sidelines the Tigers are missing three of their top four leading goal kickers so far this season.

Richmond will need someone like Riewoldt to have a big game if they are going to have any hope of kicking a big enough score to overcome a Bulldogs side that has the third best attack in the AFL.

However, his task won’t be an easy one as he will most likely be matched up by Lake who apart from conceding six goals to Sydney spearhead Barry Hall last weekend has been in pretty good form.

Riewoldt is at his best when leading into space - he isn’t a power forward who is capable of consistently taking pack marks.

Therefore, the Tigers can’t afford to just bomb the football haphazardly into the forward line otherwise Lake will continually out body Riewoldt and help set up his side’s attacking forays forward from the defensive half.

VERDICT: There is plenty of emotion surrounding this game as it will be Richmond coach Terry Wallace’s last game in charge - ironically against the side that he steered to two preliminary finals in 1997 and ‘98 before leaving the club in controversial circumstances just a week before the end of the home-and-away season in 2002. While the Tigers secured the four premiership points against the Dockers they did go missing for patches. They will undoubtedly be keen to send Wallace out on a high but the Western Bulldogs simply have too much class and will punish Richmond for their lapses in concentration. Bulldogs by 37 points.

RICHMOND v WESTERN BULLDOGS
RICHMOND
B: Chris Newman, Kelvin Moore, Dean Polo
HB: Joel Bowden, Luke McGuane, Will Thursfield
C: Andrew Collins, Shane Tuck, Brett Deledio
HF: Richard Tambling, Jack Riewoldt, Ben Cousins
F: Adam Pattison, Mitch Morton, Kayne Pettifer
Foll: Troy Simmonds, Daniel Jackson, Nathan Foley
I/C: Trent Cotchin, Jordan McMahon, Alex Rance, Mark Coughlan
Emg: Shane Edwards, Adam Thomson, Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls

In: Rance, McMahon, Coughlan
Out: Matthew White (hamstring), Nathan Brown (groin), Robin Nahas (quad)

WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: Jarrod Harbrow, Brian Lake, Stephen Tiller
HB: Lindsay Gilbee, Dale Morris, Ryan Hargrave
C: Liam Picken, Matthew Boyd, Daniel Cross
HF: Shaun Higgins, Mitch Hahn, Nathan Eagleton
F: Jason Akermanis, Will Minson, Brad Johnson
Foll: Ben Hudson, Adam Cooney, Ryan Griffen
I/C: Daniel Giansiracusa, Josh Hill, Robert Murphy, Callan Ward
Emg: Andrejs Everitt, Brennan Stack, Tim Callan

In: Murphy
Out: Scott Welsh (susp)

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Ablett likely to play

June 4th 2009 05:36
GEELONG star Gary Ablett is a virtual certainty to play against West Coast at Subiaco Oval on Sunday despite missing training on Thursday.

Ablett is battling ankle soreness but coach Mark Thompson is confident that Cats midfielder will make the trip to Perth.

"I'm pretty sure Gary will be right – he'd be a 95 per cent chance to play," Thompson said.

"He ran last night, and like Gary does, when he gets injured he turns into a total professional and just works at it."

"He did roll his ankle and there's only a slight swelling in it, but structurally it is fine, so that's why we're so confident he'll play."

Meanwhile, defender Harry Taylor (ankle) and reigning best-and-fairest winner Joel Corey (foot) are in doubt while forward Paul Chapman needs to pass a fitness test.

Thompson said Chapman, who suffered a compound fracture of the finger in the win over the Western Bulldogs in round nine, only has to show that he is comfortable marking the ball in order to regain his place in the side.

"We will find out a bit tonight at training with the wet balls and see if he gets through but he is keen to play," he said.

"He needs to be able to catch the ball but he has been given approval to play so as long as he is happy to play, he will be right."



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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


Injury blow for Dockers

June 3rd 2009 06:51
FREMANTLE has suffered yet another injury blow with Antoni Grover ruled out of Saturday night's clash against Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium with a calf strain.

Grover sustained the injury in last Saturday night's three-point loss to Richmond at Subiaco Oval.

The experienced defender joins Des Headland (calf), Michael Johnson (ankle) and Luke McPharlin (hip) who also suffered injuries in the loss to the Tigers on the sidelines.

Fremantle's injury list also includes midfielders Rhys Palmer and Ryan Crowley who are out for the season with knee and foot injuries respectively while Roger Hayden (broken leg) will miss the next five matches.

Dockers coach Mark Harvey confirmed on Wednesday that Clancee Pearce would be elevated off the rookie list to play this weekend while young ruckman Zac Clarke is a definite chance to also debut.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Fremantle Dockers
   


Watts to debut

June 3rd 2009 03:35
MELBOURNE youngster Jack Watts will make his AFL debut against Collingwood in Monday's traditional Queen's Birthday clash at the MCG.

Watts, who was taken with pick one in last year's national draft, has been held back so far this season because he is finishing year 12.

But the club deemed his form in the VFL - he collected 22 disposals playing on a wing for the Casey Scorpions last weekend - showed he was ready to play at AFL level.

The promising 18-year-old has been earmarked as a long-term key forward for the Demons.
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Headland, Johnson out for up to three weeks

June 3rd 2009 01:09
FREMANTLE will be without midfielder Des Headland and utility Michael Johnson for the next two to three weeks.

Headland suffered a quad injury in the second quarter of the Dockers' heartbreaking three-point loss to Richmond at Subiaco Oval last Saturday night while Johnson will sidelined for at least a fortnight with an ankle injury.

In some good news for Fremantle, midfielders Paul Hasleby (calf) and Byron Schammer (groin) will be available for Saturday night's clash against Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium while while hip injuries to both Luke McPharlin and exciting youngster Stephen Hill have improved over the last few days and both may be a chance to play.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Fremantle Dockers
   


Kerr to miss, Robinson and Lake free to play

June 2nd 2009 10:02
WEST COAST star Daniel Kerr will miss Sunday's clash against Geelong after failing to beat a one-match ban for striking.

The Eagles argued that Kerr's contact to Carlton's Marc Murphy was not of considerable force but the tribunal disagreed and deemed Kerr guilty, meaning the 2006 premiership player will miss his 11th game through suspension in the past three years.

Kerr will also have 97.88 demerit points hanging over his head.

Meanwhile, Blues youngster Mitch Robinson is free to play in Saturday night's match against Brisbane at the Gabba after getting his charge for engaging in rough conduct against the Eagles' Adam Selwood downgraded.

The tribunal agreed with the Blues' representatives that the contact was reckless rather than intentional.

Robinson escapes with 93.75 demerit points against his name.

Western Bulldogs full-back Brian Lake will play in Friday night's game against Richmond at Etihad Stadium after having his charge for tripping Sydney's Jarrad Moore thrown out.


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Cousins fined

June 2nd 2009 09:43
RICHMOND midfielder Ben Cousins has been fined by his club and the AFL for giving Channel 10's camera the bird prior to Saturday night's clash against Fremantle at Subiaco Oval.

Cousins was hit with a $5000 fine from the Tigers, with $2500 being suspended for 12 months and a $5000 sanction from the league, which has been fully suspended for a year.

The former West Coast skipper originally laughed off the gesture in his newspaper column but had a change of heart once viewing the footage.

"I met with the Club this morning and have accepted their fine. I apologised for raising my finger and explained that it was not a gesture I ever thought would go to air," Cousins said.

"I hadn't seen the footage until yesterday (Monday) afternoon and wasn't aware of my facial expression. Once I viewed the footage I realised why the public, the AFL and the
Richmond Football Club were offended by my actions."

Richmond's general manager of football operations Craig Cameron said the incident was not acceptable.

"We have key behaviours and standards that the playing group are supposed to uphold. This was a breach of our standards and that is why it was important that Ben apologised and was also fined," Cameron said.

"As far as we are concerned the issue has been addressed by the club, we have told Ben we were disappointed with his actions and we are all ready to move on from this topic."
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Richmond Tigers
   


Kerr one of three to face tribunal

June 2nd 2009 03:27
WEST COAST star Daniel Kerr is one of three players that will challenge suspensions handed down to them at the AFL Tribunal on Tuesday night.

Kerr was hit with a one-match ban for striking Carlton midfielder Marc Murphy before the start of Friday night's game at Etihad Stadium.

The incident was assessed by as intentional conduct, low impact and body contact, which equates to 125 demerit points but this rose to 197.88 points because Kerr has been suspended for a total of 10 matches in the past three seasons.

Kerr is not risking a lengthier ban by electing to challenge the charge.

Blues youngster Mitch Robinson and Western Bulldogs full-back Brian Lake will also contest

Robinson was given a two-match ban for engaging in rough conduct against Eagle Adam Selwood but could have accepted a one-match penalty while the Dogs will challenge a one-match ban handed down to Lake for tripping Sydney's Jarrad Moore.

Like Kerr, Lake is not risking a lengthier ban by challenging the charge

In other tribunal news, St Kilda ruckman Michael Gardiner will miss Saturday's clash against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium after accepting a one-match suspension for striking Melbourne counterpart Mark Jamar.

The Dogs will be without forward Scott Welsh for Friday night's game against Richmond after the former Crow accepted a one-match ban for engaging in rough conduct against against Swans tagger Jared Crouch.

Meanwhile, Hawthorn skipper Sam Mitchell and Richmond defender Luke McGuane both accepted reprimands for striking while Crouch and Port midfielder Travis Boak both accepted fines for making negligent contact with a field umpire.

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Laycock could miss rest of season

June 2nd 2009 01:47
ESSENDON ruckman Jason Laycock has suffered a recurrence of a foot injury and could miss the the rest of the season.

Laycock pulled up sore after playing his first game for the season in the VFL two weeks ago.

"He's training and he was playing with discomfort again," Bombers coach Matthew Knights said on Tuesday.

"He hasn't been able to get a run at it which is most frustrating because he would have been perfect to come in in this situation."

"It could be a serious where we sit down and say, 'that could be it for the year'."

"I don't think it's in anyone's best interests to push a player that's not able to put weight through a foot."

"We'll sit down later this week and make a final decision on Jason Laycock's future for the 2009 season which I must admit, to be frank, is looking probably not so bright."

In some good news for the Dons, Knights said Bellchambers' knee injury sustained in the 64-point loss to Geelong at Etihad Stadium on Sunday isn't as serious as first thought and he may only miss three to four games rather than six.

Knights ruled out promoting Christian Bock, whom he described as a development player, to support Patrick Ryder who has been forced to become the club's number one ruckman after David Hille suffered a season-ending knee injury on Anzac Day.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Essendon Bombers
   


Walker receives nomination

June 2nd 2009 01:30
ADELAIDE forward Taylor Walker has received the round 10 nomination for the NAB Rising Star award for his impressive performance against reigning premier Hawthorn on Sunday.

Walker booted five first-half goals in the Crows' 27-point win over the Hawks at AAMI Stadium.

The promising 19-year-old sits second on the club's goal kicking table with 20 for the season - two behind leader Jason Porplyzia.

Adelaide coach Neil Craig said Walker, who has played all 10 games this season, was a natural footballer but he still needed to work on areas of his game.

"I think our supporters will enjoy watching him and the club's other younger players develop over the next few seasons," Craig said.

A NSW/ACT Scholarship selection at the 2007 NAB AFL Draft, Walker played the 2008 season with Norwood in the SANFL, booting 56 goals.

Walker is the Crows' third Rising Star nominee for 2009 after Patrick Dangerfield and Andy Otten earn nominations in round three and nine respectively.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Adelaide Crows
   


Five facing bans

June 1st 2009 08:39
ST KILDA ruckman Michael Gardiner is one of five players facing a one-match ban.

Gardiner was charged with striking Melbourne counterpart Mark Jamar during the second quarter of the Saints' 37-point win over the Demons at Gold Coast Stadium on Saturday night.

The former West Coast big man can accept a one-match ban with an early plea or risk a two-match suspension if he challenges it.

Meanwhile, Eagles star Daniel Kerr, Carlton youngster Mitch Robinson and Bulldogs pair Scott Welsh and Brian Lake are also facing a week off.

Kerr was charged with striking Carlton's Marc Murphy before the first bounce on Friday night.

Due to his poor record Kerr can't reduce the penalty with an early guilty plea and will need to fight the charge at the AFL Tribunal on Tuesday night if he is going to play in Sunday's clash against Geelong at Subiaco Oval.

Robinson was cited for engaging in rough conduct against Adam Selwood. His charge earned him over 200 demerit points, meaning an early plea will result in a one-match suspension but he challenges the charge and loses he will miss two weeks.

Welsh was charged with engaging in rough conduct against the Sydney tagger Jared Crouch during Saturday's clash at Manuka Oval. The charge drew 225 points but because of his previous good record the former Adelaide forward can accept a one-match suspension with an early plea.

Lake's poor record means his one-match sanction for tripping Swan Jarred Moore can't be reduced with a guilty plea.

In other tribunal news, Hawthorn skipper Sam Mitchell will be ineligible to win the Brownlow medal unless he can beat a striking charge.

Mitchell has been offered a reprimand and 93.75 demerit points to his future record for striking Adelaide's David Mackay during Sunday's 27-point loss to the Crows at AAMI Stadium.

Because the original total of demerit points raised is over 100 he will be ineligible for the award if he accepts the reprimand.

Crouch has been hit with a $1950 sanction for making contact with an umpire while Richmond defender Luke McGuane has been offered a reprimand and 93.75 demerit points for striking Fremantle's Brett Peake.

Port midfielder Travis Boak has been fined $1950 for making negligent contact with an umpire.

The match review panel decided not to take any action from contact between Richmond's Ben Cousins and Fremantle's Byron Schammer in the fourth quarter of Saturday night's game at Subiaco Oval due to insufficient video evidence.

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Bellchambers out for up to six weeks

June 1st 2009 07:59
ESSENDON has suffered a blow with young ruckman Tom Bellchambers ruled out for up to six weeks.

Bellchambers suffered bruised bone and minor ligament damage in his knee during the Bombers' 64-point loss to Geelong at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Essendon football operations manager Paul Hamilton said on Monday the 19-year-old won't require surgery.

"He will rest his knee for the next few weeks and undergo rehabilitation," Hamilton said.

"We are very pleased that Tom hasn't done any serious cartilage or ligament damage and he will be available for most of the second half of the season."

With Bellchambers unavailable and number one ruckman David Hille out for the season with a knee injury, the Dons may be tempted to select Jason Laycock, who continues to return from a foot injury through the VFL, to help Patrick Ryder against Adelaide at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Essendon Bombers
   


Wallace apologises to Dogs

June 1st 2009 06:13
OUTGOING Richmond coach Terry Wallace has publicily apologised to the Western Bulldogs.

Wallace guided the Bulldogs into the preliminary finals in 1997 and '98 but left the club on less than good terms with a week remaining in the 2002 season.

Wallace had been linked with a move to Sydney and declared he was leaving the Dogs after round 22 but the club responded by ordering him to leave a week early.

"I had 14 wonderful years at the Western Bulldogs and one horrible week,'' Wallace said.

"I haven't had an opportunity publicly at all just due to the circumstances and then you step into a new club."

"I would actually like to go on to public record of apologising to the Western Bulldog fans and to David Smorgon, the playing group for the way that last week worked out."

"It was never my intention to go down the pathway it did but I have got to say that my kids grew up at that club."

"I have got some of my greatest friends that I have had in the game at that club."

"I hope somewhere down along the line that those wounds will heal because I just think it's a fantastic footy club."

Wallace said he wasn't able to apologise until now.

"There was a legal scenario back seven years ago that wouldn't allow me to speak on any matters at that time at all,'' he said.

"And from that point of view, when you step into a new club, there wasn't the appropriate timing. At the end of your time, I think you need to right a few wrongs."

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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Richmond Tigers
   


Wallace to depart Tigers

June 1st 2009 02:25
TERRY Wallace's four-and-a-half year tenure as Richmond coach will come to an end after Friday night's clash with the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium.

Tigers president Gary March said on Monday morning the club and Wallace had come to a "mutual agreement" that he would stand down.

The decision was made on Sunday night after Richmond had returned from Perth where they had defeated Fremantle by three points in what was Wallace's 500th game as player and coach.

"After ongoing discussions last week and over the weekend, it was resolved last night that this week would be Terry's last game as senior coach of the Richmond Football Club," March said.

"This was a mutual decision, made in the best interests of all parties."

"It was the intention of Richmond and Terry for him to see out his contract."

"However, given the club has a number of important decisions to make over the coming months we all felt that it was appropriate that he finished this weekend."

Wallace said he hoped to remain in the football industry.

"I don't know where I am going in the future but one of the options that I thought was available to me in the future ... was in club land, to perhaps going to another club in a different role as a few of the senior coaches in the past few years have done," Wallace said

"(Because of that) both the club and myself felt that it was almost untenable (for me) to stay in the role."

Wallace, who coached the Tigers to just 37 wins from 97 game believes the club is in far better shape now than when he first took over at the end of 2004.

"A lot of people are saying I am not leaving the place any better than when I arrived but I don't believe that," he said.

"When I took on the job, at that stage we had no players at this club aged between 21 and 23 that looked likely to have 10-year careers."

"But I had a look at what run around at Subiaco on Saturday night (when the Tigers beat Fremantle) and it was a midfield that is young and exciting and some young backline players and some young forward line players coming through."

"So I think whoever takes on the role next up has actually got an exciting footy club to go forwards."

Wallace took the Western Bulldogs to preliminary finals in 1997 and '98 but was unable to taste the ultimate success.

He also failed to get the Tigers to the finals in his time at the club.

Richmond won't name its caretaker coach until after Friday night's game


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Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Richmond Tigers
   


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