Read + Write + Report
Home | Start a blog | About Orble | FAQ | Blogs | Writers | Paid | My Orble | Login

AFL Central - February 2010

NAB Cup semi-finals fixture

February 28th 2010 23:45
SEE where and when your club is playing this weekend.

NAB Cup (All times local)

Friday March 5
Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide at Etihad Stadium, 7.40pm

Saturday March 6
St Kilda v Fremantle at Etihad Stadium, 7.10pm

NAB Challenge (All times local)

Friday March 5
Richmond v Collingwood at Visy Park, 4pm

Saturday March 6
Hawthorn v North Melbourne at North Ballarat, 2pm
West Coast v Carlton at Leederville, 3pm
Brisbane Lions v Geelong at Visy Park, 3pm
Adelaide v Melbourne at Elizabeth, 4.30pm
Sydney Swans v Essendon at Blacktown, 7pm



46
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Dockers down Roos in thriller

February 28th 2010 08:42
FREMANTLE is into the semi-finals of the NAB Cup thanks to a thrilling four-point win over North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

The Dockers were in front by more than three goals during the final term before the Kangaroos rallied to lead by two points with less than a minute to play.

There was one final twist in the contest with Fremantle taking football the length of the field and finding Ryan Murphy who ran into an open goal with just six seconds remaining to seal a dramatic 1.12.13 (94) 0.13.12 (90) victory.

Mark Harvey’s men will now face St Kilda at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night.


Chris Mayne starred with five goals, rookie Michael Barlow backed up his 29-possession performance against Melbourne with 27 quality disposals while Garrick Ibbotson and Michael Johnson were busy contributors.

For North, skipper Brent Harvey led from the front with a team-high 25 touches, youngster Sam Wright was impressive down back while David Hale booted three majors.

A super goal from Ibbotson helped Fremantle to an eight-point lead at the first change but they should have been further in front.

The Dockers were incredibly wasteful in front of goal, booting seven behinds for the quarter.

North closed to within a point on three occasions in a see-sawing second term before a Leigh Adams major put them in front at the 13-minute mark.

But their joy was short-lived as Fremantle hit back with three unanswered goals to go into half-time with an 11-point buffer.

Goals from Liam Anthony and Ed Lower saw the Roos level the scores early in the third term before Mayne’s third and majors from Johnson and Murphy gave the Dockers a handy break.

North got one back through Drew Petrie who converted from close range after the siren to reduce the deficit to 12 points at three-quarter time.

The Dockers held a 19-point lead at the 12-minute mark of the final stanza and appeared to be on course for a win but the Kangaroos lifted and kicked three goals without reply before a behind from Lower tied things up.

All the momentum was with North but misses from Ben Warren and Lower left the door ajar for Fremantle.

NORTH MELBOURNE: 2.2, 6.5, 9.8, 13.12 (90)
FREMANTLE: 1.1.7, 1.6.7, 1.9.11, 1.12.13 (94)
SUPER GOALS: NORTH MELBOURNE: Nil
FREMANTLE: Ibbotson
GOALS: NORTH MELBOURNE: Hale 3, Petrie 2, Adams, Anthony, Goldstein, Harding, Harvey, Lower, McIntosh, Warren
FREMANTLE: Mayne 5, Johnson 2, Murphy 2, Ballantyne, Fyfe, Grover
BEST: NORTH MELBOURNE: Harvey, Wright, Swallow, Anthony, Hale
FREMANTLE: Mayne, Barlow, Ibbotson, Johnson, Ballanytne, Pearce
INJURIES: NORTH MELBOURNE:TBC
FREMANTLE: Grover (knee),
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Matthew Pavlich, Des Headland and Paul Hasleby were all late withdrawals for Fremantle
UMPIRES: Vozzo, Margetts, B.Ryan, McInerney
CROWD: 7,877 at ETIHAD STADIUM
46
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Fremantle Dockers
   


Tigers thump Cats

February 27th 2010 14:05
RICHMOND has delivered Damien Hardwick his first win as coach, thumping Geelong to the tune of 51 points in an AFL practice match in the Victorian country town of Yea on Saturday.

The Cats’ wouldn’t have been too concerned by the result given that they were missing 11 first-choice players, including new skipper Cameron Ling, Brownlow medallist Gary Ablett and young gun Joel Selwood.

Brett Deledio and Richard Tambling were prolific in the middle for the Tigers, Shane Edwards and Daniel Connors provided plenty of run from half-back while Jack Riewoldt and Mitch Morton booted four and three goals respectively.

Experienced duo Corey Enright and Paul Chapman were two of best for the 2009 premiers.

Meanwhile, Essendon recorded a comfortable 40-point win over Melbourne at Visy Park in the other practice match played on Saturday.

Bombers ruckman David Hille made a successful return from a knee injury sustained in the Anzac Day clash against Collingwood last year while fellow big man Jason Laycock showed some good signs after having his 2009 season ruined by a foot injury.

The Dons had 12 individual goal kickers for the match - Patrick Ryder the most effective with three while Alwyn Davey, Brett Stanton, Tom Lonergan and Jobe Watson all chipped in with two majors each.

For the Demons, Ricky Petterd booted four goals while youngsters Jack Grimes and Jack Trengrove were impressive performers.

A concern for Melbourne will be the fitness of emerging star Cale Morton who hobbled off the field in the fourth quarter with a knee injury.

The 20-year-old will undergo scans on Sunday to determine the seriousness of the injury.
32
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Richmond Tigers
   


Power demolish Eagles

February 27th 2010 12:18
PORT ADELAIDE has booked a NAB Cup semi-final showdown with the Western Bulldogs with a 78-point demolition of West Coast at Subiaco Oval on Saturday night.

The Power set up the win with a dominant third term before eventually running out 4.19.8 (158) to 2.8.14 (80) victors.

Rookie Cameron Hitchcock did his chances of being elevated to Port’s senior list no harm with four goals, including a super goal while youngster Mitch Banner chimed in with three majors.

Despite being smashed in the hit-outs 41-10, the Power won the clearances 41-27.

Skipper Domenic Cassisi was influential with 23 possessions and 10 clearances while Steven Salopek was also damaging with 16 disposals and nine inside 50s.

Luke Shuey was West Coast’s best with 24 touches, five clearances and a super goal while Chris Masten (28) and Adam Selwood (25) tried hard all night.

Despite the mercury hovering around 37 degrees at the first bounce, the game was played at a frenetic pace from the outset.

The Eagles won the possession count 116 to 64 in the opening stanza but they let themselves down with their use of the football on a number of occasions and were made to pay the ultimate price.

Three of Port’s five first-quarter goals came as a result of West Coast turnovers.

Leading by 10 points at the first change, the Power jumped out to a 22-point break at the three-minute mark of the second term after capitalising on skill errors made by Matt Spangher and Ashley Smith.

West Coast lifted their rating and responded with the next four scoring shots but they only managed three behinds and a super goal from Shuey.

Port made the Eagles pay for their wastefulness with three unanswered goals, including two from former Blue Cameron Cloke to open up a handy buffer late in the term before Nic Naitanui snapped truly on the siren to reduce the deficit to 19 points at the main break.

It was all one-way traffic in the third term, the Power moving the football quickly and cleanly through the middle of the ground as they slammed on nine goals to one to establish a match-winning 65-point lead at three-quarter time.

WEST COAST: 0.4.2, 1.5.9, 1.6.10, 2.8.14 (80)
PORT ADELAIDE: 1.4.3, 1.9.4, 2.16.6, 4.19.8 (158)
SUPER GOALS: West Coast: Shuey, Ebert
Port Adelaide: Harding, Westhoff, Pearce, Hitchcock
GOALS: West Coast: LeCras 2, Nicoski, McKinley, Lynch, Naitanui, Brown, Kennedy
Port Adelaide: Hitchcock 3, Banner 3, Schulz 2, Cloke 2, Ebert 2, Harding, Thompson, P Stewart, D Stewart, Westhoff, Davenport
BEST: West Coast: Shuey, Masten, Selwood
Port Adelaide: Cassisi, Salopek, Hitchcock, Westhoff, Banner, Pearce
INJURIES: West Coast: Nil
Port Adelaide: Nil
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: Ryan, Chamberlain, Jennings, Bowen
CROWD: 16,231 at Subiaco Oval
22
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Port Adelaide Power
   


Saints pip Swans

February 27th 2010 10:36
ST KILDA is through to the semi-finals of NAB Cup after recording a thrilling one-point win over Sydney at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night.

The Saints led by 17 points midway through the final term before the Swans levelled the scores with just over five minutes remaining in the match.

David Armitage broke the deadlock with a point from the forward pocket with just two minutes left on the on the clock before St Kilda hung tough in the dying stages to prevail 2.9.7 (79) to 0.12.6 (78).

Sydney will be left to rue a costly mistake made by ruckman Mark Seaby in the third quarter. The former Eagle had the chance to kick a super goal after being awarded a 50m penalty but he had to settle for the traditional six points after he played on over the mark.

The Saints will now play the winner of Sunday's clash between North Melbourne and Fremantle.

Small forward Stephen Milne was instrumental in the win with four goals, including three in the final quarter while midfielders Jason Gram, Leigh Montagna, Lenny Hayes and Nick Dal Santo were prolific.

For the Swans, Heath Grundy kept Saints skipper Nick Riewoldt to just one goal, Jude Bolton and Brett Kirk battled hard all night in the middle while Paul Bevan booted three goals.

The contest was tight and tough from the outest with the biggest margin in the first half just 10 points in favour of the Swans

A Brendon Goddard super goal from 55m at the eight-minute mark of the second term was a highlight in the opening half.

It was St Kilda’s last score of the quarter as Bevan added his second major of the night to help his side to a nine-point lead at the main break.

The Saints stamped their authority on the contest in the third term, applying immense pressure all over the ground and booting goals through Gram and Justin Koschitzke to regain the lead before a nine-pointer from Gram saw last year’s grand finalists establish a 12-point buffer.

St Kilda was threatening to run away with the match but the Swans steadied and found themselves trailing by just five points at the final change.

Ross Lyon’s men slammed on three of the first four goals of the final stanza to establish what appeared to be a match-winning lead.

But the Swans refused to give in and hit back with four of the next five majors to set up a thrilling finish.

ST KILDA: 2.4, 1.3.4, 2.5.5, 2.9.7 (79)
SYDNEY: 3.2, 6.4, 7.6, 12.6 (78)
SUPER GOALS: ST KILDA: Goddard, Gram,
SYDNEY:
GOALS: ST KILDA: Milne 4, Riewoldt, McEvoy, Gram, Koschitzke, Stanley
SYDNEY: Bevan 3, Jack 2, Seaby, Moore, Currie, O'Keefe, White, McGlynn, Rohan.
BEST: ST KILDA: Milne, Gram, Montagna, Dal Santo, Hayes
SYDNEY: Grundy, Bolton, Kirk, O'Dwyer, Bevan, Richards, Smith
INJURIES: ST KILDA: Nil
SYDNEY: Nil
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
CROWD: 10,998 at ETIHAD STADIUM


47
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


Dogs crush Hawks

February 26th 2010 11:09
THE Western Bulldogs have secured a NAB Cup semi-final berth with a crushing 57-point win over Hawthorn at Etihad Stadium on Friday night.

A six-goal performance from prized recruit Barry Hall helped lift the Bulldogs to a 1.15.12 (111) to 7.12 (54) victory.

Playing in his first match since his last for Sydney in round 13 last year, Hall stamped his authority on the contest in the opening stanza, booting four goals on ex-Kangaroo Josh Gibson.

The 33-year-old benefited from quality supply from a midfield that was well led by stand-captain Matthew Boyd who racked up a game-high 30 possessions.

Adam Cooney, Ryan Griffen and Daniel Giansiracusa were also influential while rookie Brodie Moles was a busy contributor.

Josh Hill and Robert Murphy booted two majors apiece while Brian Lake restricted star forward Lance Franklin to just one goal.

For the Hawks, skipper Sam Mitchell, Jordan Lewis and Garry Moss won plenty of the football while rookies Kayler-Thomson and Carl Peterson showed some good signs.

Hall’s first major - a snap over his right shoulder from 30m out - came after less than two minutes of action.

He then converted a set shot after a superb pass from Boyd before Hill slotted one home to give the Dogs an early break.

The Hawks finally got on the board through Jarryd Roughead but a further two majors from Hall saw the Bulldogs go into quarter-time with a 22-point lead.

It appeared to be a matter of how far for the Dogs after the margin blew out to 31 points early in the second term.

But the Hawks lifted their rating and responded with three of the next four majors to remain within striking distance before Hall kicked his fifth at the 23-minute mark to give the Bulldogs a 24-point advantage at half-time.

Any hopes Hawthorn had of pulling off a come-from-behind win were quashed in the third quarter with the Dogs slamming on seven goals to two to establish a match-winning 55-point lead at the final change.

With the result well and truly beyond doubt both sides went through the motions in a lacklustre final stanza.

The Bulldogs will now face the winner of Saturday night's clash between West Coast and Port Adelaide.

HAWTHORN: 1.5, 4.7, 6.8, 7.12 (54)
WESTERN BULLDOGS: 5.3, 8.7, 15.9, 1.15.12 (111)
SUPER GOALS: HAWTHORN: Nil
WESTERN BULLDOGS: Boyd
GOALS: HAWTHORN: Roughead 2, Morton 2, Breust, Hodge, Franklin.
WESTERN BULLDOGS: Hall 6, Hill 2, Murphy 2, Moles, Giansiracusa, Cross, Cooney, Higgins
BEST: HAWTHORN: Mitchell, Lewis, Kayler-Thomson, Moss, Peterson, Sewell
WESTERN BULLDOGS: Hall, Boyd, Cooney, Griffen, Giansiracusa, Moles, Lake, Hill, Murphy
INJURIES: HAWTHORN: TBC
WESTERN BULLDOGS: TBC
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
CROWD: 17,222 at ETIHAD STADIUM


32
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Western Bulldogs
   


Blues ruin Fev's homecoming

February 26th 2010 09:59
BRENDAN Fevola's homecoming wasn't a victorious one with Carlton recording a 13-point win over Brisbane in Friday afternoon's NAB Challenge clash at Visy Park.

The Blues trailed at every change but outgunned the Lions in the final stanza to run out 14.9 (93) to 12.8 (80) winners.

Fevola was restricted to just two goals and two marks by former teammate Michael Jamison.

Carlton small forward Eddie Betts was impressive with three goals, while Brisbane skipper Jonathan Brown also booted three majors.

A concern for the Lions will be the fitness of ruckman Jamie Charman who suffered an ankle injury in the second quarter.

Charman will undergo scans on Sunday to determine the extent of the injury.


35
Vote
Comments (1)Comments (1) Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Carlton Blues
   


Team GWS names inaugural chairman

February 26th 2010 02:41
TEAM GWS has named Tony Shepherd as its inaugural chairman.

A lifelong AFL supporter, Shepherd is the chairman of Transfield Services Limited, one of the biggest infrastructure and engineering services companies in Australia.

He has worked on major infrastructure and urban renewal projects including the Sydney Harbour Tunnel, the Walsh Bay redevelopment and Melbourne's CityLink and EastLink.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou said the AFL commission was thrilled that someone with Shepherd's experience and passion had taken on the role to guide Team GWS and its board.

"In the past few months Team GWS has gone from strength to strength and the appointment of a business leader like Tony Shepherd is such an exciting next step," Demetriou said.

"Tony has been involved in so many major construction projects and his experience in building new companies and projects will take the building of Team GWS to a whole new level."

"He is well respected for his ability to deliver major projects that have changed this country and also as someone with a gift for bringing together community, business and government around a vision."

Shepherd's first tasks will be to form a board, appoint a CEO, put in a place a club structure and prepare a business plan which Team GWS will present to the AFL Commission in July in its bid to be granted the 18th licence.

"This is a great challenge. I believe in the vision of having an AFL team in Western Sydney and think the people of Greater Western Sydney have the enthusiasm and the drive to make this happen," Shepherd said..

The 65-year-old is also a trustee of the SCG but he will excuse himself from any discussions where there could be a conflict of interest.
42
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


NAB Cup and NAB Challenge Squads

February 25th 2010 01:55
NAB Cup - ROUND TWO (All times local)

Friday February 26
Hawthorn v Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium, 7.40pm

Saturday February 27
West Coast v Port Adelaide at Subiaco Oval, 5.40pm
St Kilda v Sydney Swans at Etihad Stadium, 7.10pm

Sunday February 28
North Melbourne v Fremantle at Etihad Stadium, 5.10pm

HAWTHORN v WESTERN BULLDOGS
HAWTHORN
2. Jarryd Roughead, 3. Jordan Lewis, 4. Rick Ladson, 5. Sam Mitchell, 6. Josh Gibson, 8. Xavier Ellis, 12. Brad Sewell, 13. Simon Taylor, 14. Grant Birchall, 15. Luke Hodge, 17. Beau Muston, 18. Brent Guerra, 19. Jarryd Morton, 21. Shane Savage, 23. Lance Franklin, 25. Ryan Schoenmakers, 26. Liam Shiels, 27. Stephen Gilham, 28. Garry Moss, 29. Tom Murphy, 30. Campbell Brown, 31. Matthew Suckling, 35. Sam Grimley, 36. Jordan Lisle, 39. Ben Stratton, 43. Will Sierakowski, 45. Jarrod Kayler-Thomson, 47. Luke Bruest, 48. Carl Peterson.

WESTERN BULLDOGS
1. Jarrad Grant, 2. Robert Murphy, 3. Andrejs Everitt, 4. Daniel Cross, 5. Matthew Boyd, 7. Shaun Higgins, 8. Mitch Hahn, 9. Lindsay Gilbee, 10. Nathan Eagleton, 13. Daniel Giansiracusa, 14. Callan Ward, 15. Ben Hudson, 16. Ryan Griffen, 17. Adam Cooney, 18. Brennan Stack, 19. Liam Jones, 20. Josh Hill, 21. Jason Akermanis, 22. Dylan Addison, 23. Jordan Roughead, 25. Ryan Hargrave, 28. Barry Hall, 31. James Mulligan, 33. Tim Callan, 36. Brian Lake, 38. Dale Morris, 40. Jarrod Harbrow, 42. Liam Picken, 44. Brodie Moles.

WEST COAST v PORT ADELAIDE
WEST COAST
1. Mitch Brown, 2. Mark LeCras, 5. Brad Ebert, 6. Mark Nicoski, 7. Chris Masten, 8. Beau Waters, 9. Nic Naitanui, 10. Scott Selwood, 12. Brad Sheppard, 13. Luke Shuey, 15. Tom Swift, 16. Eric Mackenzie, 17. Josh Kennedy, 18. Bradd Dalziell, 20. Dean Cox, 21. Quinten Lynch, 23. Darren Glass, 24. Matt Rosa, 26. Sam Butler, 27. Ben McKinley, 28. Ashley Smith, 29. Ashley Hansen, 30. Matt Spangher, 31. Will Schofield, 35. Pat McGinnity, 37. Adam Selwood, 38. Brett Jones, 41. Andrew Strijk, 45. Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls.

PORT ADELAIDE
1. Domenic Cassisi, 2. Josh Carr, 3. Steven Salopek, 6. Danyle Pearce, 7. Nathan Krakouer, 9. Jacob Surjan, 12. Jackson Trengove, 13. Wade Thompson, 14. Paul Stewart, 18. Kane Cornes, 19. Nick Salter, 22. Jay Nash, 23. Matthew Lobbe, 26. Andrew Moore, 27. Alipate Carlile, 28. Jay Schulz, 29. Jasper Pittard, 30. Troy Chaplin, 31. Mitchell Banner, 33. Brett Ebert, 35. Chad Cornes, 38. Scott Harding, 39. Justin Westhoff, 41. Jason Davenport, 42. Danny Meyer, 43. Daniel Stewart, 44. Tom Logan, 45. Cameron Hitchcock, 47. Cameron Cloke.

ST KILDA v SYDNEY SWANS
ST KILDA
1. Jason Gram, 2. Steven King, 4. Clint Jones, 5. Ben McEvoy, 6. Zac Dawson, 7. Lenny Hayes, 10. Steven Baker, 11. Leigh Montagna, 12. Nick Riewoldt, 13. Adam Schneider, 14. Jarryn Geary, 18. Brendon Goddard, 19. Sam Gilbert, 20. David Armitage, 21. Nick Heyne, 22. Farren Ray, 23. Justin Koschitzke, 24. Sean Dempster, 25. Sam Fisher, 26. Nick Dal Santo, 27. Jason Blake, 28. Rhys Stanley, 30. Brett Peake, 32. Andrew McQualter, 33. James Gwilt, 39. Alistair Smith, 45. Luke Miles, 44. Stephen Milne, 49. Steven Gaertner

SYDNEY SWANS
1. Mark Seaby, 3. Jarrad McVeigh, 5. Ryan O’Keefe, 9. Nick Malceski, 10. Daniel Currie, 11. Ed Barlow, 12. Josh Kennedy, 14. Craig Bird, 15. Kieren Jack, 16. Gary Rohan, 17. Tadhg Kennelly, 18. Jesse White, 21. Ben McGlynn, 22. Byron Sumner, 24. Jude Bolton, 25. Ted Richards, 29. Martin Mattner, 30. Lewis Roberts-Thomson, 31. Brett Kirk, 32. Lewis Jetta, 33. Jarred Moore, 37. Adam Goodes, 38. Michael Pyke, 39. Heath Grundy, 40. Nick Smith, 41. Shane Mumford, 42. Paul Bevan, 43. Matthew O'Dwyer, 46. Taylor Gilchrist

NAB Challenge (All times local)

Friday February 26
Carlton v Brisbane Lions at Visy Park, 4pm
Collingwood v Adelaide at Alice Springs, 7pm

Saturday February 27
Melbourne v Essendon at Visy Park, 1pm
Richmond v Geelong Cats at Yea, 4pm

CARLTON v BRISBANE LIONS
CARLTON
1. Andrew Walker, 2. Jordan Russell, 4. Bryce Gibbs, 5. Chris Judd, 6. Kade Simpson, 7. Brock McLean, 8. Matthew Kreuzer, 10. Richard Hadley, 11. Robert Warnock, 12. Mitch Robinson, 13. Chris Yarran, 15. Steven Browne, 17. Setanta O’hAilpin, 18. Paul Bower, 19. Eddie Betts, 22. Shaun Hampson, 23. Lachie Henderson, 24. Kane Lucas, 26. Joe Anderson, 29. Heath Scotland, 31. Marcus Davies, 32. Bret Thornton, 33. Ryan Houlihan, 34. Simon Wiggins, 38. Jeff Garlett, 39. Sam Jacobs, 40. Michael Jamison, 44. Andrew Carrazzo, 45. Aaron Joseph.

BRISBANE LIONS
1. Mitch Clark, 2. Albert Proud, 4. Travis Johnstone, 5. Brendan Fevola, 8. Matt Austin, 11. Justin Sherman, 12. James Hawksley, 16. Jonathan Brown, 17. Jared Brennan, 18. Todd Banfield, 19. Jamie Charman, 22. Tom Collier, 24. Joel Patfull, 26. Ryan Harwood, 27. Josh Dyson, 28. Troy Selwood, 29. Andrew Raines, 30. Jack Redden, 31. James Polkinghorne, 32. Cheynee Stiller, 33. Amon Buchanan, 34. Jesse O’Brien, 35. Michael Rischitelli, 36. Matt Maguire, 38. Tom Rockliff, 39. Josh Drummond, 42. Pearce Hanley, 43. Claye Beams, 44. Aaron Cornelius.

COLLINGWOOD v ADELAIDE
COLLINGWOOD
1. Leon Davis, 3. John McCarthy, 4. Alan Didak, 6. Tyson Goldsack, 8. Harry O’Brien, 10. Scott Pendlebury, 11. Shane O’Bree, 13. Dale Thomas, 14. Anthony Corrie, 15. Leigh Brown, 16. Nathan Brown, 17. Dayne Beams, 19. Cameron Wood, 20. Ben Reid, 22. Steele Sidebottom, 25. Josh Fraser, 26. Ben Johnson, 28. Ben Sinclair, 29. Ryan Cook, 30. Brent Macaffer, 31. Chris Dawes, 34. Alan Toovey, 35. Simon Prestigiacomo, 36. Dane Swan, 39. Heath Shaw, 41. Simon Buckley, 43. Jaxson Barham, 47. Jarryd Blair, 48. Jack Carter.

ADELAIDE
3. Brent Reilly, 4. Kurt Tippett, 5. Scott Thompson, 6. Jonathon Griffin, 8. Myke Cook, 9. Tyson Edwards, 10. Jarrhan Jacky, 11. Michael Doughty, 13. Taylor Walker, 14. David Mackay, 16. Phil Davis, 17. Bernie Vince, 18 Graham Johncock, 20. Ivan Maric 23. Andrew McLeod, 25. Ben Rutten, 26. Richard Douglas, 27. Scott Stevens, 28. Jack Gunston, 29. James Sellar, 31. Rory Sloane, 33. Jared Petrenko, 35. Shaun McKernan, 36. Simon Goodwin, 37. Trent Hentschel, 38. Tony Armstrong, 44. Nathan Bock, 45. Ricky Henderson, 46. Chris Schmidt.

MELBOURNE v ESSENDON
MELBOURNE
1. Matthew Warnock, 2. Nathan Jones, 3. Clint Bartram, 5. Jordan Gysberts, 7. Brad Miller, 8. James Frawley, 9. Jack Trengove, 10. Cale Morton, 12. Colin Sylvia, 13. Jordie McKenzie, 15. Ricky Petterd, 16. Jack Grimes, 18. Brad Green, 19. Addam Maric, 21. Daniel Bell, 22. Brent Moloney, 23. James McDonald, 24. Liam Jurrah, 25. Kyle Cheney, 27. Jared Rivers, 28. Joel MacDonald, 29. Michael Newton, 31. Tom Scully, 34. Stefan Martin, 40. Mark Jamar, 43. Jamie Bennell, 44. Rohan Bail, 47. James Strauss, 48. Jack Fitzpatrick.

ESSENDON
2. Ricky Dyson, 3. Scott Gumbleton, 4. Jobe Watson, 5. Brent Stanton, 6. Angus Monfries, 8. Jason Winderlich, 9. Brent Prismall, 10. Mark Mcveigh, 12. Andrew Welsh, 14. Sam Lonergan, 15. Courtenay Dempsey, 16. Tayte Pears, 17. Jake Melksham, 19. David Hille, 20. Henry Slattery, 23. David Myers, 25. Michael Still, 26. Cale Hooker, 27. Jason Laycock, 29. Alwyn Davey, 30. Patrick Ryder, 31. Dustin Fletcher, 33.Mark Williams, 37. Kyle Reimers, 39. Heath Hocking, 40. Ben Howlett.

RICHMOND v GEELONG
RICHMOND
2. Will Thursfield, 3. Brett Deledio, 5. Troy Simmonds, 6. Graham Polak, 8. Jack Riewoldt, 9. Trent Cotchin, 10. Shane Edwards, 15. Mitch Farmer, 16. Luke McGuane, 17. Chris Newman, 19. Daniel Connors, 20. Mitch Morton, 23. Daniel Jackson, 25. Angus Graham, 26. Robin Nahas, 27. Tom Hislop, 28. Jake King, 29. Tyrone Vickery, 30. Richard Tambling, 31. Adam Thomson, 32. Ben Cousins, 33. David Gourdis, 36. Dustin Martin, 37. Jayden Post, 40. Kel Moore, 43. Matt Dea, 44. Troy Taylor, 46. Jeromey Webberley, 50. Relton Roberts.

GEELONG
3. James Bartel, 5. Travis Varcoe, 6. Brad Ottens, 8. Josh Hunt, 9. James Kelly, 12. Trent West, 13. Tom Lonergan, 16. Dawson Simpson, 17. Shannon Byrnes, 22. Mitch Duncan, 25. Thomas Gillies, 28. Allen Christensen, 30. Matthew Scarlett, 31. James Podsiadly, 32. Steven Motlop, 35. Paul Chapman, 37. Jeremy Laidler, 38. Taylor Hunt, 39. Darren Milburn, 40. David Wojcinski, 44. Corey Enright, 46. Adam Varcoe, 48 Thomas Allwright, 49. Jesse Stringer.
37
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Ziebell signs new deal with Kangaroos

February 24th 2010 23:43
NORTH MELBOURNE young gun Jack Ziebell has signed a new three-year with the Kangaroos which will see him remain at the club until at least the end of 2013.

The 18-year-old, who was taken with pick nine in the 2008 national draft, managed 10 appearances in 2009 and was one of the favourites for the NAB Rising Star Award before his season came to an abrupt end when he broke his leg against Adelaide in round 12.

Ziebell said the decision to remain at Arden St was an easy one to make.

"There was really no question in my mind. North Melbourne is where I want to play my football," Ziebell told Kangaroos.com.au.

"The club has taken significant steps on and off the field and the group we have at the club is amazingly talented and I want us all to stick together because I believe we could be heading toward something pretty special in the near future."

"I don't have to think about it now and I can just get on with playing well for the club and our supporters."

North's list and strategy manager Cameron Joyce said Ziebell's decision showed the club was on the right track.

"Jack's commitment should resonate strongly among our young group and all our players should be delighted that he's chosen to extend his agreement," Joyce said.

"The future of this club was already looking bright but this latest development has just pushed it to the next level."

24
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Kangaroos
   


Grievance tribunal to hear Lovett case

February 24th 2010 21:19
ANDREW Lovett has received some good news with the AFL grievance tribunal agreeing to hear his case against his sacking from St Kilda and subsequent loss of a million-dollar contract.

The tribunal will also hear Lovett's initial grievance about being banned from training with the Saints prior to his axing.

After sacking Lovett, St Kilda claimed that his grievance was void as he was no longer an AFL player.

However, the three-man panel of chairman Jack Rush QC, Kevin Power and James Dowsley ruled that Lovett remained a listed player under the terms of the AFL collective bargaining agreement.

Lovett was suspended indefinitely by the Saints after allegations of sexual assault were levelled against him on Christmas Eve.

The 27-year-old was charged with one count of rape on February 15 and sacked by the club a day later.

The Saints said the decision to terminate Lovett's contract was not due to the criminal charge laid against him but because he had failed to comply with the club's standards of expected behaviour on a number of occasions.

Lovett joined St Kilda on a lucrative three-year deal after the Saints gave pick 16 in the national draft to Essendon during trade week last October.
37
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


Bird sidelined for up to three months

February 24th 2010 08:12
SYDNEY midfielder Craig Bird will be sidelined for up to three months due to a stress fracture in his foot.

The 21-year-old will not require surgery but he won't be able to resuming running for approximately six weeks.

"Whilst this is obviously not ideal, we know Craig will be back sometime in the front half of the season," Swans coach Paul Roos said.

"Craig has had a great pre-season prior to this injury which makes this particularly disappointing for him and the Club."

"At least this setback has happened early in the year so he will still have an opportunity to get back into the team and have a good season."

Taken with pick 59 in the 2007 national draft, Bird has played 36 games for Sydney.
48
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Sydney Swans
   


Fisher undergoes radical surgery

February 24th 2010 07:46
CARLTON forward Brad Fisher has undergone radical knee surgery in a bid to play a role in the club's 2010 campaign.

Fisher suffered a partial tear of his right ACL in last Saturday night's NAB Cup loss to Sydney.

It was feared that the 25-year-old would require 12 months of rehabiliation but the Blues are hopeful of having him back playing in 12 weeks time after he underwent ligament augmentation and reconstruction surgery.

"Obviously this is positive news for Brad and the club as it will see him return before the second half of the season," Carlton football operations manager Steven Icke said.

"We underwent a thorough investigation as to the best treatment for this injury, understanding that the LARS surgery is not always the most appropriate and are pleased that it was for Brad's injury."

Fisher also spoke with Sydney defender Nick Malceski, who successfully returned to the game within several months following LARS surgery in 2008, before undergoing the procedure.

The pair were teammates at the Eastern Ranges Under-18 team in the TAC Cup Competition.





36
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Carlton Blues
   


Bailey at helm of Dees until at least 2011

February 24th 2010 05:27
DEAN Bailey will be at the helm of Melbourne until at least the end of 2011 after signing a contract extension.

Bailey's tenure hasn't been overly successful thus far with the Demons winning just seven times from 44 games

Despite his poor record, Melbourne president Jim Stynes said the club was confident Bailey was taking the Dees in the right direction.

"In just over two years, Dean has laid the foundations for what we think will be a prolonged period of achievement," Stynes said.

"Solidarity and stability is important with a young group of players, and this decision will give them confidence moving forward."

Stynes also said the decision to give Bailey a new deal wasn't a rash one.

"We made this decision in our own time," he said.

"The process started at the end of last season, during the football department review. The decision to extend Dean’s contract was ratified by the Board of Directors, at last Friday’s board meeting.

"We see Dean as being a big part of the long term future of the Melbourne Football Club."

"This now gives him appropriate time to drive his vision and expectations for the playing group"

Bailey was pleased that the club had backed him.

"I'm looking forward working with this group as they develop as both players and people," Bailey said.

"The last two seasons have been years of great change, and it has been well documented that we have rebuilt through the draft but now it's a matter of putting game time into these young players as a group."

"This year, I expect our playing group to have a competitive attitude right from the start of games."

"Last year, we won 32 quarters of football and this has to change."

"We need to be in games right from the opening minute in order for us to win more matches for our members and supporters."

26
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Melbourne Demons
   


Cox ready to play

February 24th 2010 04:10
STAR West Coast ruckman Dean Cox will play for the first time since July last year in Saturday night's NAB Cup quarter-final against Port Adelaide at Subiaco Oval.

Cox, who was restricted to just 13 matches in 2009 due to a serious groin problem, was given the green light by Eagles coach John Worsfold on Wednesday.

"Coxy is ready to go, so I expect we will get him up and going this week," Worsfold said.

"It is exciting for him, he is really keen to get back into it. But he won't play a full game."

"Possibly as a substitute, or possibly through four quarters but with limited game time. And he will do some ruckwork for sure."

Worsfold said rugged utility Beau Waters was in the mix for selection after 18 months on the sidelines with a serious elbow injury but the fact that it is expected to top 40 degrees in Perth on Saturday may count against him.

Midfielders Andrew Embley and Matt Priddis are expected to be rested for the clash against the Power while Quinten Lynch is a doubtful starter as his partner is due to give birth to their first child sometime this week.

26
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, West Coast Eagles
   


Corey doubtful starter for round one

February 24th 2010 00:28
GEELONG midfielder Joel Corey is a doubtful starter for round one after suffering a knee injury in the Cats' 14-point loss to North Melbourne in the first-round NAB Cup match at Etihad Stadium last Sunday.

Corey was subbed off at half-time after copping a knock to his knee. He underwent scans on Monday which revealed that he had suffered a a slight tear to the lateral meniscus.

The two-time premiership player underwent surgery on Tuesday and is expected to be sidelined for three to four weeks.

"Joel suffered a similar injury in 2005 and after the same procedure he returned after three weeks and we think this will be the same outcome," Cats general manager of football operations Neil Balme said on the club's official website.

"You never want an injury but in these cases it could always be worse. We are confident that Joel will be available early in the season."

Corey will celebrate his 200th game in his next match.

Geelong starts its 2010 premiership defence against Essendon at the MCG on March 26.
39
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


AFL to introduce free agency in 2012

February 23rd 2010 04:01
THE AFL has announced it will introduce free agency in 2012 for players who have served eight or more years at one club.

Clubs will have the option of matching an offer from a rival club for a player that is among their top 10 highest paid players.

The player can then either choose to remain with the current club, be traded or nominate for the draft.

If a player leaves his original club the club will then receive a compensation draft pick determined by an AFL designed formula.

Out-of-contract players that have given 10 or more seasons of service to one club will be be allowed to field offers from all rivals clubs without the club being able to match the presented offer.

The same ruling will apply to players that are out-of-contract, have served eight or more seasons at one club and are not among the 10 highest paid players at the club.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou said the agreement was a 'positive outcome' for all parties.

"Importantly, the agreement protects the integrity of the salary cap and draft -- key pillars in the ongoing success of the competition," Demetriou said.

"The agreed model is fair for all concerned in that it gives players more flexibility but also contains safeguards that will help maintain the evenness of the competition."

AFLPA CEO Matt Finnis said it was pleasing to have finally secured a more flexible labour market for players.

"We've struck a balance between respecting the culture and traditions of our competition, whilst acknowledging the rights of players for increased self determination," Finnis said.

"We're pleased to be able to introduce a model of free agency which is uniquely structured to suit the AFL competition."

"Our campaign for free agency has never been about revolution - rather it has been focused on improving a system which has helped to secure the AFL competition as the pre-eminent professional team sport in the country."

Under the agreement:

- Players delisted by a club on or before 31 October will be unrestricted free agents.

- Players who are not in the top 25 per cent of salaries at their clubs will be eligible for unrestricted free agency if they have served eight years on the primary list of the club.

- Players who are in the top 25 per cent of salaries at their club will be eligible for restricted free agency for their first new contract after they have served eight years on the primary list of the club. This is the case regardless of when the first new contract arises. For example, a player who is contracted after his seventh year for two, three, four or years will still only be eligible for restricted free agency for his next contracts as a nine, 10, or 11 year player.

- A top 25 per cent player will then be eligible for unrestricted free agency for his next contract, provided that a player can’t be an unrestricted free agent until completing at least 10 years service at one clubs.

- Restricted free agents have the right to move to a club of their choice subject to the current club’s right of first refusal over their services. That is, if the current club can match the offer from a rival club, the player must stay or enter the draft. The tabled offer only includes capped salary and capped ASA amounts.

- Compensation in the form of AFL allocated draft picks will apply to clubs with a net loss of free agents. This will be based on a formula to be determined by the AFL.

- The Veterans List allowance will be amended to apply to players with 10 years service at one club and will be based on a set amount of TPP per player calculated as a percentage of TPP.

- The AFL will closely monitor access to uncapped third party independent arrangements.

- All player investments with associates must be lodged with the AFL.

The free agency system will be reviewed at the end of 2016.
25
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Knights to be sidelined for six weeks

February 23rd 2010 01:58
ADELAIDE sharpshooter Chris Knights will be sidelined for six weeks after scans confirmed he has a stress fracture in his left foot.

The 23-year-old was initially diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, forcing him to wear a moon boot to protect his foot.

"Late last week Chris was aware of pain and swelling further down the foot towards the toes. An investigation on the weekend revealed a stress fracture," club doctor Andrew Potter told afc.com.au.

"Chris will continue to have treatment for both plantar fasciitis and the stress fracture."

The injury to Knights comes after pre-season injuries to promising young defender Andy Otten, veteran forward Brett Burton and midfielder Nathan van Berlo.

Burton recently underwent knee surgery, van Berlo has a stress fracture in his back while Otten will miss all of the 2010 season after rupturing his ACL.

In some good news for the Crows, Nathan Bock, Kurt Tippett and Scott Thompson are expected to play in Friday night's NAB Challenge match against Collingwood in Alice Springs.
35
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Adelaide Crows
   


Broughton cleared by MRP

February 22nd 2010 05:56
FREMANTLE defender Greg Broughton has been cleared of engaging in rough conduct against Melbourne's Ricky Petterd.

Broughton was reported in the third quarter of the Dockers' 47-point win in Sunday night''s NAB Cup clash at Subiaco Oval for a head-high bump on Petterd.

It was the view of the match review panel that contact was 'inevitable'.

"Both players were moving from opposite directions to contest the ball," the panel said.

"The ball went between the two players, which meant contact was inevitable."

"Broughton braced for contact while Petterd stumbled, which contributed to high contact being made. Broughton did not have a realistic alternative to contest the ball or tackle his opponent."

"The action was not considered unreasonable in the circumstances as; the degree of force was not excessive, the player being bumped was actively involved in the play, the player being bumped would reasonably expect contact, there was no use of the elbow, the player being bumped could reasonably expect to influence the contest and the bumping player did not jump or leave the ground."

23
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Fremantle Dockers
   


NAB Cup and NAB Challenge fixtures

February 22nd 2010 02:26
SEE where and when your club is playing this weekend.

NAB Cup - ROUND TWO (All times local)

Friday February 26
Hawthorn v Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium, 7.40pm

Saturday February 27
West Coast v Port Adelaide at Subiaco, 5.40pm
St Kilda v Sydney Swans at Etihad Stadium, 7.10pm

Sunday February 28
North Melbourne v Fremantle at Etihad Stadium, 5.10pm

NAB Challenge (All times local)

Friday February 26
Carlton v Brisbane Lions at Visy Park, 4pm
Collingwood v Adelaide at Alice Springs, 7pm

Saturday February 27
Melbourne v Essendon at Visy Park, 1pm
Richmond v Geelong Cats at Yea, 4pm
36
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Dockers down Demons

February 21st 2010 12:03
FREMANTLE will face North Melbourne in a NAB Cup quarter-final after downing Melbourne by 47 points at Subiaco Oval on Sunday night.

The Dockers set up the victory with a dominant first term before running out 1.13.10 (97) to 2.4.8 (50) winners.

Some off the gloss was taken off the win with defender Greg Broughton to come under scrutiny for his third-quarter bump on Ricky Petterd while Byron Schammer, Adam McPhee and Kepler Bradley suffered niggles during the match.

Rookie Michael Barlow did his chances of being elevated to the senior list no harm with a game-high 29 possessions and four inside 50’s while Paul Duffield (25) and Roger Hayden (23) also won plenty of the football.

Fremantle skipper Matthew Pavlich and Michael Johnson booted three goals apiece, rookie Clancee Pearce was a busy contributor with 20 disposals and two goals, including a super goal while Des Headland and Hayden Ballantyne kicked two majors each.

Veteran Antoni Grover put in a superb performance, keeping exciting young forward Liam Jurrah goalless.

For the Demons, former Lion Joel MacDonald impressed in his first match for the club but top-two draft picks Tom Scully and Jack Trengrove struggled to have much of an impact, managing just 15 and 11 touches respectively.

Fremantle played with greater intent than their opposition from the outset, winning more of the contested football and the tackle count 15-8 in the opening term.

The Dockers’ relentless pressure forced the Demons into numerous turnovers and they were made to pay as Fremantle slammed on four unanswered goals to go into quarter-time with a commanding 26-point lead.

The margin blew out to 33 points early in the second term before super goals from Brad Green and Aaron Davey and a major from Brad Miller got Melbourne back into the contest.

Dean Bailey’s men trailed by just 15 points late in the first half but their good work was undone when Pearce slammed home a super goal right on the siren to give the Dockers a 24-point advantage at the main break.

Four goals to one in the third term saw Fremantle go into three-quarter time with a match-winning 43-point lead.

FREMANTLE: 0.4.4, 1.6.6, 1.10.9, 1.13.10 (97)
MELBOURNE: 0.0.2, 2.1.4, 2.2.5, 2.4.8 (50)
SUPER GOALS: Fremantle: Pearce
Melbourne: Green, Davey
GOALS: Fremantle: Johnson 3, Pavlich 3, Ballantyne 2, Headland, Mayne, Sandilands, Pearce, Headland
Melbourne: Miller, Petterd, Miller, Morton
BEST: Fremantle: Barlow, Duffield, Hayden, Pearce, Ballantyne, Grover
Melbourne: Macdonald, Jones, Rivers, Davey
INJURIES: Fremantle: McPhee (ankle), Schammer (ankle), Bradley (hip)
Melbourne: Nil
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: TBC
CROWD: 11,031 at Subiaco

23
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Fremantle Dockers
   


Roos upset Cats

February 21st 2010 08:14
NEW North Melbourne coach Brad Scott has enjoyed a winning start to his coaching career with the Kangaroos recording an upset 14-point win over Geelong in the first round of the NAB Cup at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

The Roos led by 46 points in the third term but had to withstand a spirited fight-back from the Cats, eventually prevailing 2.11.11 (95) to 2.10.3 (81).

North will now face the winner of the clash between Fremantle and Melbourne in a NAB Cup quarter-final at Etihad Stadium next Sunday while Geelong will play Richmond in a bushfire benefit game in the Victorian country town of Yea.

Liam Anthony racked up a game-high 38 possessions while Sam Wright (24), Matt Campbell (21), Levi Greenwood (19), Jack Ziebell (18) were impressive.

Ben Warren was influential with four goals, including a super goal while Drew Petrie and Leigh Harding chipped in with two majors apiece.

For the Cats, Corey Enright was busy in defence with 34 disposals, Cameron Ling (27), Gary Ablett (25), Joel Selwood (23) and James Bartel (19) were prolific in the middle while Cameron Mooney booted three majors.

Mitch Duncan showed he is a player of the future with 14 possessions and two classy goals while defender Josh Hunt collected 17 disposals in his first match after rupturing his ACL in last year's NAB Cup grand final.

After a scrappy opening the Kangaroos got the first goal of the match through Warren at the eight-minute mark before Mooney managed a quick reply.

Tom Hawkins then exerted his influence on the contest, slotting home a major before kicking a super goal to give the Cats a handy early break.

Warren’s second in the final minute of the opening stanza reduced Geelong’s advantage to just eight points at quarter-time.

Bartel kicked the first goal of the second term before North took control of the contest.

They suffocated the Cats with immense pressure, dominated the clearances, won the inside 50 count 13-5 and booted five of the last six goals of the first half to go into the main break with an 18-point buffer.

The Roos got off to a dream start in the third quarter with a 50m penalty against Andrew Mackie for encroaching on the mark resulting in a nine-pointer to Warren before regular goals from Petrie, Warren and Leigh Harding saw the margin blow out to 46 points at the 14-minute mark.

It appeared to be a matter of how far for the Kangaroos but the Cats' star midfielders lifted their rating.

Geelong moved the football quickly through the middle of the ground and hit back with six unanswered goals, including a super goal from Selwood to close to within eight points at the final change.

When Steve Johnson snapped truly from an acute angle at the three-minute mark of the final stanza the deficit was just one point.

The Cats looked set to overrun North but they steadied through Todd Goldstein who goaled on the run before Petrie received a downfield free kick and made no mistake from 15m out to seal an impressive win for the Roos.

GEELONG: 1.2.1, 1.4.2, 2.9.2, 2.10.3 (81)
NORTH MELBOURNE: 0.2.2, 1.6.8, 2.9.10, 2.11.11 (95)
SUPERGOALS: Geelong: Hawkins, Selwood
North Melbourne: Campbell, Warren
GOALS: Geelong: Mooney 3, Duncan 2, Hawkins, Bartel, Podsiadly, Varcoe, Johnson
North Melbourne: Warren 3, Harding 2, Petrie 2, Swallow, Jones, Adams, Goldstein
BEST: Geelong: Enright, Selwood, Bartel, Ablett, Ling, Kelly, Mooney
North Melbourne: Anthony, Warren, Ziebell, Campbell, Petrie, Greenwood
INJURIES: Geelong: Nil
North Melbourne: Petrie (corked thigh)
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: McBurney, Wenn, McKenzie, Ryan
CROWD: 12,989 at Etihad Stadium



23
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Kangaroos
   


Swans grind out win over Blues

February 20th 2010 11:03
SYDNEY has booked a NAB Cup quarter-final showdown with St Kilda with a hard-fought 12-point win over Carlton at Blacktown Olympic Park on Saturday night.

The Swans led at every change and eventually prevailed 2.7.11 (71) to 8.11 (59).

It was Sydney’s first win in the pre-season competition in eight years under coach Paul Roos.

Lewis Jetta - who was taken by the Swans with pick 14 in last year's national draft - was lively with two goals including a super goal while fellow first-round draftee Gary Rohan was also impressive.

Jude Bolton and Nick Malceski were busy contributors while ex-Hawk Ben McGlynn kicked two goals.

For Carlton, Heath Scotland collected 23 possessions and booted two goals, skipper Chris Judd and Richard Hadley won plenty of the football while Mitch Robinson kicked two first-quarter goals.

The Blues had the better of general play early and got the first goal of the match with Robinson converting after four minutes of action.

Sydney responded through McGylnn and found themselves in front after Martin Mattner kicked a super goal late in the term.

A comical error was made in the first quarter with a train siren being mistaken for the quarter-time siren.

The umpires were notified of the mix-up and the last 49 seconds of the term were played out as the Swans went into the first change with a two-point buffer.

In what was a scrappy second term, Sydney booted two goals to one to go into the main break with a narrow lead.

Carlton should have been in front at half-time but they let themselves down in front of goal, booting six behinds for the quarter.

Jetta showed his class with a super goal on the run at the six-minute mark of the third term before the Blues got the quick reply through Andrew Carrazzo.

The Swans then broke the game open, with majors from Rohan, Jetta and skipper Brett Kirk helping them establish a commanding 29-point lead.

It appeared as if Sydney would run away with the contest but Carlton lifted and hit back with late goals from Scotland and Lachlan Henderson to remain with striking distance at three-quarter time with Sydney holding a 17-point advantage.

The Blues got the crucial first goal of the final stanza with Scotland kicking his second but the Swans steadied through McGlynn and held on for a breakthrough win.

SYDNEY: 1.1.2, 1.3.2, 2.6.8, 2.7.11 (71)
CARLTON: 0.2.3, 0.3.9, 0.6.9, 0.8.11 (59)
SUPER GOALS: Sydney: Mattner, Jetta,
Carlton: Nil
GOALS: Sydney: McGlynn 2, Jetta, McVeigh, Dennis-Lane, Rohan, Kirk,
Carlton: Robinson 2, Scotland 2, Yarran, Carrazzo, Henderson, Thornton,
BEST: Sydney: Jetta, Malceski, J.Bolton, Kennelly, McGlynn
Cartlon: Scotland, Judd, Hadley, Robinson, Carrazzo
INJURIES: Sydney: Nil
Carlton: Brad Fisher suffered a suspected torn anterior cruciate ligament.
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: Kennedy, Ryan, Stewart
CROWD: 9,732 at Blacktown Olympic Park
21
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Sydney Swans
   


Saints win thriller

February 19th 2010 11:08
ST KILDA has held on for a thrilling one-point win over Collingwood in the first-round NAB Cup clash at Etihad Stadium on Friday night.

The Saints had a 43-point lead midway through the third quarter but found themselves trailing by five points with three minutes left in the contest before Adam Schneider sealed a 2.13.14 (100) to 1.13.12 (99).

Ross Lyon's men will now face the winner of Saturday night's clash between Sydney and Carlton while the Pies will play a NAB Challenge match against Adelaide in Alice Springs.

St Kilda skipper Nick Riewoldt was instrumental in the win with four goals and nine marks while Schneider chimed in with three goals, including a super goal.

Leigh Montagna won plenty of the football while David Armitage showed some good signs.

For Collingwood, Leigh Brown impressed with four majors, ex-Saint Luke Ball collected 22 possessions while former Sydney premiership ruckman Darren Jolly finished with 20 hit outs and two goals, including a nine-pointer.

The Magpies got the first goal of the match through Brown but the rest of the opening stanza belonged to the Saints.

They applied the same level of pressure that helped make them such a force in 2009 and moved the football well through the middle of the ground as they slammed on six of the last seven goals of the quarter.

Riewoldt booted two goals while Schneider chipped in with a super goal and a major as St Kilda opened up a commanding 26-point lead at the first change.

Two goals from Brown and a major from Tarkyn Lockyer ensured the Magpies remained within striking distance at the main break with the Saints holding an 18-point advantage.

It was all one-way traffic early in the third term with the Saints piling on four unanswered goals, including a super goal from Jason Blake to establish what appeared to be a match-winning 43-point lead.

But Collingwood lifted their rating and responded with the last five goals of the term.

Travis Cloke and Jolly played key roles in the Magpies’ resurgence. The former booted two goals while the latter exerted his influence in the ruck and pushed forward and kicked a super goal and the last major of the quarter to get his side to within 10 points at the final change.

Ball converted a set shot from 30m out to reduce the deficit to just four points early in the final term but the Pies had to wait until the 21-minute mark to regain the lead with a Paul Medhurst goal giving them a five-point buffer.

However, Collingwood’s joy was short-lived with an unmanned Schneider marking 20 metres out from goal before kicking truly with just 28 seconds left on the clock.

The Magpies launched one final forward thrust but they were unable to penetrate the Saints' defence.

COLLINGWOOD: 2.2, 5.4, 1.9.8, 1.13.12 (99)
ST KILDA: 1.5.1, 1.7.1, 2.10.3, 2.13.4 (100)
SUPER GOALS: COLLINGWOOD: Jolly
ST KILDA: Schneider, Blake.
GOALS: COLLINGWOOD: Brown 4, Cloke 2, Medhurst 2, Lockyer, Swan, Ball, Jolly, Beams
ST KILDA: Riewoldt 4, Schneider 2, McQualter, McEvoy, Montagna, Koschitzke, Milne, Stanley, S Fisher
BEST: COLLINGWOOD: Brown, Ball, Jolly, O’Brien, Shaw, Cloke
ST KILDA: Riewoldt, Schneider, Montagna, Armitage, Jones,Goddard
INJURIES: COLLINGWOOD: Nil
ST KILDA: Nil
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: Meredith, Rosebury, Jennings, Bowen.
CROWD: 29,801 at Etihad Stadium

11
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


NAB Cup Squads: Week Two

February 18th 2010 03:50
NAB Cup

ROUND ONE - WEEK TWO (All times local)

Friday February 19
St Kilda v Collingwood at Etihad Stadium, 7.40pm

Saturday February 20
Sydney Swans v Carlton at Blacktown, 7.40pm

Sunday February 21
Geelong Cats v North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium, 4.40pm
Fremantle v Melbourne at Subiaco Oval, 5.40pm

ST KILDA v COLLINGWOOD
ST KILDA
2. Steven King, 3. Jack Steven, 4. Clint Jones, 5. Ben McEvoy, 6. Zac Dawson, 11. Leigh Montagna, 12. Nick Riewoldt, 13. Adam Schneider, 14. Jarryn Geary, 18. Brendon Goddard, 19. Sam Gilbert, 20. David Armitage, 21. Nick Heyne, 22. Farren Ray, 23. Justin Koschitzke, 25. Sam Fisher, 27. Jason Blake, 28. Rhys Stanley, 30. Brett Peake, 32. Andrew McQualter, 33. James Gwilt, 36. Tommy Walsh, 37. Leigh Fisher, 38. Will Johnson, 39. Alistair Smith, 41. Paul Cahill, 44. Stephen Milne, 45. Luke Miles, 49. Steven Gaertner.

Note: Michael Gardiner was withdrawn from the squad on Wednesday afternoon. Paul Cahill has taken his place.

COLLINGWOOD
1. Leon Davis, 3. John McCarthy , 4. Alan Didak, 5. Nick Maxwell, 6. Tyson Goldsack, 7. Paul Medhurst, 8. Harry O’Brien, 10. Scott Pendlebury, 11. Shane O’Bree, 12. Luke Ball, 13. Dale Thomas, 15. Leigh Brown, 16. Nathan Brown, 17. Dayne Beams, 18. Darren Jolly, 19. Cameron Wood, 20. Ben Reid, 21. Sharrod Wellingham, 22. Steele Sidebottom, 24. Tarkyn Lockyer, 26. Ben Johnson, 30. Brent Macaffer, 31. Chris Dawes, 32. Travis Cloke, 34. Alan Toovey, 35. Simon Prestigiacomo, 36. Dane Swan, 39. Heath Shaw, 41. Simon Buckley.

SYDNEY SWANS v CARLTON
SYDNEY SWANS
1. Mark Seaby, 3. Jarrad McVeigh, 6. Craig Bolton, 8. Trent Dennis-Lane, 9. Nick Malceski, 10. Daniel Currie, 12. Josh Kennedy, 14. Craig Bird, 15. Kieren Jack, 16. Gary Rohan, 17. Tadhg Kennelly, 20. Sam Reid, 21. Ben McGlynn, 22. Byron Sumner, 24. Jude Bolton, 25. Ted Richards, 29. Martin Mattner, 30. Lewis Roberts-Thomson, 31. Brett Kirk, 32. Lewis Jetta, 33. Jarred Moore, 35. Campbell Heath, 37. Adam Goodes, 38. Michael Pyke, 39. Heath Grundy, 40. Nick Smith, 42. Paul Bevan, 43. Matthew O'Dwyer, 46. Taylor Gilchrist.

CARLTON
2. Jordan Russell, 4. Bryce Gibbs, 5. Chris Judd, 6. Kade Simpson, 7. Brock McLean, 8. Matthew Kreuzer, 10. Richard Hadley, 11. Robert Warnock, 12. Mitch Robinson, 13. Chris Yarran, 14. Brad Fisher, 15. Steven Browne, 16. Shaun Grigg, 17. Setanta O’hAilpin, 18. Paul Bower, 22. Shaun Hampson, 23. Lachie Henderson, 24. Kane Lucas, 26. Joe Anderson, 29. Heath Scotland, 31. Marcus Davies, 32. Bret Thornton, 34. Simon Wiggins, 38. Jeff Garlett, 39. Sam Jacobs, 40. Michael Jamison, 44. Andrew Carrazzo, 45. Aaron Joseph, 46. David Ellard.

GEELONG v NORTH MELBOURNE
GEELONG
3. Jimmy Bartel, 4. Andrew Mackie, 5. Travis Varcoe, 7. Harry Taylor, 8. Josh Hunt, 9. James Kelly, 11. Joel Corey, 13. Tom Lonergan, 14. Joel Selwood, 16. Dawson Simpson, 17. Shannon Byrnes, 20. Steve Johnson, 21. Cameron Mooney, 22. Mitch Duncan, 24. Mark Blake, 25. Tom Gillies, 26. Tom Hawkins, 28. Allen Christensen, 29. Gary Ablett, 31. James Podsiadly, 32. Steve Motlop, 37. Jeremy Laidler, 38. Taylor Hunt, 39. Darren Milburn, 40. David Wojcinski, 44. Corey Enright, 45. Cameron Ling, 46. Adam Varcoe, 48. Tom Allwright.

NORTH MELBOURNE
1. Hamish McIntosh, 2. Ed Lower, 3. Brady Rawlings, 4. Liam Anthony, 5. Ben Warren, 6. Lachlan Hansen, 7. Jack Ziebell, 9. Andrew Swallow, 11. Michael Firrito, 13. Leigh Adams, 14. Gavin Urquhart, 15. Ben Ross, 16. Scott Thompson, 19. Sam Wright, 20. Drew Petrie, 21. Corey Jones, 22. Todd Goldstein, 24. Levi Greenwood, 25. Robbie Tarrant, 27. Aaron Edwards, 29. Brent Harvey, 30. Daniel Pratt, 31. David Hale, 32. Cruize Garlett, 33. Matt Campbell, 39. Leigh Harding, 42. Scott McMahon, 43. Marcus White, 46. Ben Speight.

FREMANTLE v MELBOURNE
FREMANTLE
1. Hayden Ballantyne, 2. Anthony Morabito, 3. Byron Schammer, 4. Paul Hasleby, 5. Garrick Ibbotson, 6. Greg Broughton, 9. Adam McPhee, 11. Des Headland, 14. Antoni Grover, 15. Ryan Crowley, 16. David Mundy, 18. Luke McPharlin, 19. Clayton Hinkley, 21. Michael Barlow, 23. Chris Mayne, 24. Dylan Roberton, 26. Kepler Bradley, 28. Ryan Murphy, 29. Matthew Pavlich, 30. Zachary Clarke, 31. Aaron Sandilands, 32. Stephen Hill, 36. Alex Silvagni, 37. Michael Johnson, 40. Matt de Boer, 41. Paul Duffield, 43. Roger Hayden, 46. Clancee Pearce, 47. Jay van Berlo.

MELBOURNE
1. Matthew Warnock, 2. Nathan Jones, 3. Clint Bartram, 7. Brad Miller, 8. James Frawley, 9. Jack Trengove, 10. Cale Morton, 12. Colin Sylvia, 13. Jordie McKenzie, 15. Ricky Petterd, 16. Jack Grimes, 18. Brad Green, 19. Addam Maric, 21. Daniel Bell, 22. Brent Moloney, 23. James McDonald, 24. Liam Jurrah, 25. Kyle Cheney, 27. Jared Rivers, 28. Joel Macdonald, 31. Tom Scully, 34. Stefan Martin, 36. Aaron Davey, 39. Neville Jetta, 42. Jake Spencer, 43. Jamie Bennell, 44. Rohan Bail, 47. James Strauss, 48. Jack Fitzpatrick.
11
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Solomon hangs up boots

February 18th 2010 01:53
FREMANTLE veteran Dean Solomon has retired from AFL football, effective immediately.

The 30-year-old had planned to play on in 2010 but he was forced into retirement due to chronic problems with his right knee.

"I've seen two surgeons in the last week and the outlook they gave me is I've got zero per cent chance of playing football again," Solomon told a packed media conference.

"Unfortunately, with that advice I had no choice"

"I'll have to have an operation similar to (former Dockers ruckman) Justin Longmuir in the next three years to give me more life in the knee after football."

Solomon said he prided himself on always putting his body on the line during his career.

"Hopefully I leave with my teammates knowing every time I went onto the field I gave 100 per cent and always committed my body in any way I possibly could," he said.

"I never let them down I feel."

"Some disciplinary areas maybe but if there was a 50-50 ball or I had to put my body on the line I'd always do that."

A low point in Solomon's career came in 2008 when he landed a crude blow with his elbow on Geelong tagger Cameron Ling which left Ling with a fractured cheekbone and saw Solomon suspended for eight weeks.

"In my mind that's done and dusted and I'm just going to remember the good things I've achieved," Solomon said.

"A lot of people may remember that incident and bring it up but I hope those people remember the good footy I did play and I was part of a pretty good side at Essendon as well."

Taken with pick 20 by the Bombers in the 1997 national draft, Solomon played 158 games with the Dons and was a member of the club's 2000 premiership side.

He joined the Dockers at the end of 2006 and managed 51 appearances.

Solomon will work with Fremantle's development and coaching staff this season.
11
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Fremantle Dockers
   


Knee surgery sidelines Burton

February 17th 2010 06:33
ADELAIDE veteran Brett Burton will be sidelined for up to six weeks after undergoing surgery on his left knee on Wednesday.

The 31-year-old returned from the Crows' training camp on the Gold Coast on Tuesday night after reporting lingering soreness following last Saturday's NAB Cup loss to Port Adelaide.

He saw a specialist and immediately underwent an arthroscopy to repair cartilage damage.

Adelaide football operations general manager Phil Harper said Burton was disappointed but remained positive about being ready for the start of the premiership season.

"Brett hasn't missed a beat with training over the summer and he approaches his rehabilitation with the right attitude, so we hope to have him back on the track as quickly as possible," Harper said.

"He will be in a race against time to be available for round one but we have faith in our physical performance team to give him the best chance possible of taking the field against Freo."

Burton underwent a reconstruction on his left knee after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament against Collingwood in round 15, 2008.

The high-flying forward returned to the Crows' side late last season.
12
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Adelaide Crows
   


AFLPA unhappy with Lovett sacking

February 16th 2010 08:49
THE AFL Players' Association says it is 'extremely disappointed' with St Kilda's decision to sack Andrew Lovett on Tuesday.

A day after Lovett was charged with one count of rape, the Saints terminated the 27-year-old's three-year contract on the grounds that he had failed to comply with the club's standards of expected behaviour on a number of occasions.

Lovett was suspended indefinitely by St Kilda on Christmas Eve after a woman levelled sexual assault allegations against him.

He lodged a grievance notice with the Saints earlier this month over the suspension.

AFLPA CEO Matt Finnis said the grievance procedure should have been allowed to run its full course.

"The AFL and AFLPA have agreed to a grievance resolution procedure which seeks to resolve disputes between players and Clubs in good faith," Finnis said.

"We expect that clubs and players will respect this procedure and use their best endeavours to resolve issues between them via this system."

"St Kilda's decision is, in our view, inconsistent with this principle and has the potential to undermine the commitment of players to the established codes and procedures for dealing with disciplinary matters and disputes within the AFL industry."

"AFL players are employees, and AFL clubs are workplaces. Notwithstanding the nature of their work or their profiles, AFL players ought be able to rely upon basic principles of fairness and due process before being subjected to disciplinary action."

"We have serious concerns as to whether Andrew's legal rights have been respected and will further consult with his legal representatives to address this concern in coming days."

Meanwhile, AFL football operations manager Adrian Anderson said in a statement that the league would leave the matter in the hands of St Kilda.

"This is a contractual matter between St Kilda and Andrew Lovett," Anderson said.

"The AFL respects the right of St Kilda to make this decision and we do not intend to interfere in the matter."
11
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


Saints sack Lovett

February 16th 2010 04:13
ST KILDA has sacked recruit Andrew Lovett a day after he was charged by police with one count of rape.

Saints chief executive Michael Nettlefold said the decision to terminate Lovett's contract was not because of the criminal charge laid against him.

“During Andrew’s short tenure with the Club, on a number of occasions he engaged in actions that were failures to comply with our standards of expected behavioral conduct," Nettlefold said.

"These failures related to his training commitments and a failure to contact Club Officials in a situation where he should have done so."

"We simply could not ignore such breaches. Nor could we ignore the damage being done to St Kilda’s reputation and decided unanimously as a Club to terminate Andrew Lovett’s employment with the Saints."

The former Essendon speedster joined St Kilda on a three-year, $1 million contract during October's trade period.

Just six weeks after the Saints gave up pick 16 in the national draft to acquire Lovett, the 27-year-old was arrested and charged with being drunk in a public place.

Then on Christmas Eve he was accused of raping a Port Melbourne woman after drinking with a teammate at a Richmond Hotel.

St Kilda immediately reacted to the allegations by suspending him indefinitely.

A two-month investigation by detectives from the South Melbourne Crime Investigation Unit resulted in Lovett being charged on Monday.

He will appear in Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Friday.

St Kilda coach Ross Lyon admitted the decision to trade for Lovett had backfired.

"We went through what we believed to be due diligence or research and referencing and at the end of that made a reasonable or unanimous decision - match committee, list management and coaches - to trade (for) Andrew," Lyon said.

"It's easy to sit here in hindsight (and say we shouldn't have recruited him) but I'm certainly not saying it's been a positive outcome."

"As a coach and a team what we need is to focus on our actions and prepare and the AFL season continues but we're one short."

"Undeniably this has been a negative start (to the season). It's not something we could've foreseen."

"You try and prepare for challenges thrown up, this is one that's been put in front of us and that we'll deal with."

"We feel we're mentally strong, a tough group, a resilient group and this will certainly galvanise us.''

The Saints refused to comment on whether Lovett's contract would be paid out.
12
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


Motlop accepts ban

February 16th 2010 00:49
PORT ADELAIDE will be without star forward Daniel Motlop for its NAB Cup quarter-final against West Coast at Subiaco Oval after he accepted a one-match ban for engaging in rough conduct against Adelaide midfielder Michael Doughty.

Motlop risked a two-match suspension for his slinging tackle on Doughty in the second quarter of the Power's 56-point win if he challenged the charge due to a previous indiscretion last season.

The 27-year-old's decision to accept the ban means he will be able to take his place in the side to face North Melbourne in round one of the home-and-away season.

He will now have 64.06 demerit points hanging over his head for the next 12 months.
11
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Port Adelaide Power
   


Lovett charged with rape

February 15th 2010 06:25
STAR St Kilda recruit Andrew Lovett has been charged with rape and will face Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Friday.

The charge comes after detectives from South Melbourne CIU conducted a two-month investigation into allegations made against the 27-year-old in December.

Lovett is currently suspended by the Saints and has lodged an appeal to the AFL's grievance tribunal over his dispute with the club

The troubled speedster played 88 games in five seasons with Essendon before joining St Kilda during last year's trade period.
12
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


Motlop hit with one-match ban

February 15th 2010 06:01
PORT ADELAIDE star Daniel Motlop looks set to miss the Power's second-round NAB Cup clash against West Coast at Subiaco Oval after being hit with a one-match ban by the match review panel.

Motlop has been charged with a Level One engaging in rough conduct offence for a slinging tackle on Adelaide midfielder Michael Doughty during Port's 56-point victory on Saturday.

The incident was assessed as reckless conduct, low impact and body contact which equates to 125 demerit points. Carryover points from the past 12 months brought the total to 218.7 points.

The classy forward will miss just the match against the Eagles if he enters an early guilty plea but if he elects to contest the charge he risks a two-match suspension.

If Motlop takes the charge to the tribunal and loses and West Coast defeats Port, he will have to sit out the opening round of the season proper.

Four other incidents were assessed but Essendon young gun Kyle Reimers, Adelaide's Jared Petrenko, Hawthorn vice-captain Luke Hodge and Western Bulldogs ruckman Ben Hudson were cleared of any wrongdoing.

It was the view of the panel that contact between Reimers and Eagles forward Josh Kennedy was below that required to be a reportable offence.

Petrenko was deemed to have had his eyes on the ball when he knocked over Jasper McMillan-Pittard in a marking contest,

The panel said Hodge did not have a realistic alternative way to contest the ball against Richmond midfielder Richard Tambling and that Tambling contributed to the high contact while Hudson's action against Brisbane's James Polkinghorne was ruled to not be a striking motion.
12
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Port Adelaide Power
   


Team GWS snares Allan

February 15th 2010 04:38
TEAM GWS has pulled off yet another major coup, snaring the services of highly-respected football manager Graeme Allan.

Allan is expected to begin his management role in the club's football football department in the coming weeks after Brisbane released him from the last year of his contract with the club on Monday.

The 55-year-old has been the football manager at the Lions since 1998 and oversaw its football department during Brisbane's premiership hat-trick in 2001-03.

He was previously the football manager at Collingwood from 1986 to 1997 and was instrumental in the Magpies' drought-breaking premiership win in 1990. Before that he played 141 VFL games with Fitzroy and Collingwood.

AFL general manager of development David Matthews said Allan's mix of administrative experience and recruiting knowledge made him the right man to head the Team GWS football department.

"Gubby Allan is an astute football administrator who has been involved in building four premiership sides with Collingwood and Brisbane and knows well the challenges of building support in a competitive market," Matthews said.

"This job requires someone who has those skills and knows how to put together a successful department. After being one of the senior football administrators who served on the list concessions committee for the Gold Coast and Greater Western Sydney, he was attracted by the challenge of starting a new club."

Allan said the time was right for a new challenge.

"Brisbane is a fantastic club and both the playing list and the club is in a strong position and in good hands with Michael as coach and now is the right time to take on a new opportunity," Allan said.

"I have been fortunate to be involved in premierships with two great clubs in Brisbane and Collingwood but the chance to work with a start-up club and build a football team from scratch is a rare opportunity."

Team GWS coach Kevin Sheedy said Allan would be a great addition to the club.

"The last time Gubby Allan and I put our heads together in 1995 we created the Anzac Day match to honour our servicemen and women," Sheedy said.

"I am looking forward to working together to build a strong team that gels together and really brings together something special that represents the people of Greater Western Sydney."

"We are building a great team of people in this organisation from Alan McConnell, Tom Harley and Paul Kelly to the guys like Grant Mayer and Andrew Hill who have had successful careers in the NRL and really know the sporting landscape across Greater Western Sydney. Gubby adds even more experience."

10
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Young Tiger cleared of serious injury

February 15th 2010 04:11
RICHMOND has received some good news with young midfielder Ben Nason cleared of a serious knee injury.

The 20-year-old hyper-extended his knee in the second quarter of the Tigers' 73-point loss to Hawthorn in the first-round NAB Cup match at Aurora Stadium on Saturday night.

The club initially feared Nason had ruptured his ACL but scans showed just bone bruising which is expected to sideline him for four weeks.

Meanwhile, youngster Adam Thompson will be rested this week after suffering concussion against the Hawks.
10
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Richmond Tigers
   


Dogs down Lions

February 14th 2010 07:49
THE Western Bulldogs have booked their place in the second round of the NAB Cup with a hard-fought eight-point win over Brisbane in slippery conditions at Manuka Oval on Sunday.

The Bulldogs trailed by 19 points at half-time but took control of the contest in the third term before running out 1.5.14 (53) to 1.5.6 (45) winners.

Daniel Cross was a busy contributor with 21 possessions, Matthew Boyd collected 16 disposals, Adam Cooney was instrumental in the fight back while Andrejs Everitt booted two goals.

Justin Sherman starred for the Lions with three goals, including a super goal while former Sydney premiership player Amon Buchanan was impressive in the midfield in his first match for the club.

Star recruit Brendan Fevola managed just one goal but Brisbane coach Michael Voss would have been pleased with his attitude.

The Lions started brightly, winning more of the contested football and having the first six entries inside 50 of the contest.

A major from Fevola with his first kick as a Lion and a super goal from Sherman after the Dogs gave away a 50m penalty was their reward for their hard work.

They were the only goals in what was a scrappy opening stanza as Brisbane went into quarter-time with a 14-point lead.

The Dogs lifted their work rate and finally got their first goal of the match at the six-minute mark of the second term with Everitt slotting one home.

Despite matching the Lions at the stoppages the Bulldogs found themselves trailing by 19 points at the main break after youngster Jesse O’Brien converted a set shot and Sherman dribbled home his second.

A spray from Dogs coach Rodney Eade at half-time did the trick with the Western Bulldogs completely dominating the third term.

They won the clearances 9-3, inside 50 count 15-5, kept Brisbane scoreless and kicked three unanswered goals to establish a five-point lead at three-quarter time.

The Dogs should have been further in front at the final change but they were wasteful in front of goal, booting six behinds for the quarter.

Everitt’s second gave the Bulldogs some breathing space before Brisbane hit back almost immediately through Sherman.

The defining moment of the match came with just five minutes left on the clock. The Western Bulldogs were gifted a 50m penalty after a Lions interchange infringement which resulted in a super goal to Ryan Griffen.

Brisbane utility Jared Brennan kicked truly shortly after to give his side a glimmer of hope but the Dogs held firm in the dying stages.

The Western Bulldogs will now face Hawthorn at Etihad Stadium on February 26 while the Lions will play on the NAB Challenge circuit.

WESTERN BULLDOGS: 0.0.4, 0.1.8, 0.4.14, 1.5.14 (53)
BRISBANE LIONS: 1.1.3, 1.3.6, 1.3.6, 1.5.6 (45)
SUPER GOALS: WESTERN BULLDOGS: Griffen
BRISBANE LIONS: Sherman
GOALS: WESTERN BULLDOGS: Everitt 2, Cooney, Roughead, Jones
BRISBANE LIONS: Sherman 2, Fevola, O'Brien, Brennan
BEST: WESTERN BULLDOGS: Cross, Boyd, Cooney, Hudson
BRISBANE LIONS: Sherman, Buchanan, Rockliff
INJURIES: WESTERN BULLDOGS: Nil
BRISBANE LIONS: Nil
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: Chris Donlon (1), Mathew Nicholls (15), Luke Farmer(4)
CROWD: TBC at MANUKA OVAL


30
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Western Bulldogs
   


Hawks thump Tigers

February 13th 2010 11:16
HAWTHORN has given new Richmond coach Damien Hardwick a horror start to his coaching career with a 73-point thumping of the Tigers in the first-round NAB Cup clash at Aurora Stadium on Saturday night.

The Hawks dominated for three quarters before taking their foot off the pedal in the final stanza, eventually winning 3.16.12 (135) to 0.9.8 (62).

The loss was made worse for Richmond with first-year player Ben Nason suffering what appeared to be a serious knee injury in the second quarter while Adam Thomson suffered concussion after copping a knee to the head in a marking contest with Jordan Lisle.

Hawthorn skipper Sam Mitchell was instrumental in the win with a game-high 38 possessions, Luke Hodge was also prolific with 26 disposals while Lance Franklin starred up forward with five goals.

Brad Sewell, Jordan Lewis, Xavier Ellis and Liam Shiels also won plenty of the football.

For the Tigers, Dustin Martin - the club's first pick at last year's national draft - was impressive with 26 quality possessions, Brett Deledio collected 22 touches while Jack Riewoldt kicked three goals.

The Hawks stamped their authority on the contest in the opening stanza, winning more of the football and using it better than their opponents as they piled on seven goals.

Franklin was particularly influential with three majors to help his side to a commanding 38-point lead at quarter-time.

Richmond's only goal for the term came off the boot of youngster David Astbury.

It was more of the same in the second quarter with the Hawks slamming on seven goals, including super goals from Luke Breust and Mitchell to establish a 72-point advantage at the main break.

A Jarryd Roughead super goal from near the boundary line was the highlight of a third term in which Hawthorn booted six goals to two to blow the margin out to 102 points at the final change.

With the result well and truly beyond doubt the Hawks eased off in the last quarter and the Tigers took full advantage, kicking five goals to avoid a 100-point plus loss.

Alastair Clarkson's men will now face the winner of the clash between the Western Bulldogs and the Brisbane Lions while Richmond will play on the NAB Challenge circuit.

HAWTHORN: 0.7.3, 2.10.7, 3.15.11, 3.16.12 (135)
RICHMOND: 0.1.1, 0.2.1, 0.4.2, 0.9.8 (62)
SUPER GOALS: HAWTHORN: Breust, Mitchell, Roughead
RICHMOND:
GOALS: HAWTHORN: Franklin 5, Hodge 2, Roughead 2, Mitchell, Ellis, Moss, Suckling, Lisle, Shiels, Schoenmakers
RICHMOND: Riewoldt 3, Nahas 2, Astbury, Hislop, Polak, M. Morton
BEST: HAWTHORN: Mitchell, Franklin, Hodge, Sewell, Lewis, Roughead, Shiels, Ellis
RICHMOND: Martin, Deledio, Riewoldt, Newman, Connors
INJURIES: HAWTHORN: Dowler (ankle), Franklin (bruised buttock)
RICHMOND: Nason (knee), Thomson (concussion)
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: Shaun Ryan (25), Stefan Grun (13), Brett Ritchie (39)
CROWD: 11,217 at Aurora Stadium
30
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Hawthorn Hawks
   


Power demolish Crows

February 13th 2010 08:16
PORT ADELAIDE has kicked off its NAB Cup campaign with a 56-point demolition of Adelaide at AAMI Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The Power broke the game wide open in the third quarter before going on to prevail 2.15.15 (123) to 1.8.10 (67).

Mark Williams’ men will now face West Coast at Subiaco Oval in a fortnight while the Crows will clash with the loser of St Kilda v Collingwood in a NAB Challenge match in Alice Springs.

Port had nine individual goal kickers for the match - Justin Westhoff the most effective with three while promising youngsters Mitch Banner, Cameron Hitchcock, Daniel Stewart and Wade Thomson chipped in with two apiece.

Travis Boak showed his class with 21 possessions while Nathan Krakouer generated plenty of run from defence with 20 disposals.

For the Crows, skipper Simon Goodwin collected 22 disposals and booted a super goal while Patrick Dangerfield also helped himself to 22 possessions.

Bernie Vince, Brett Burton and Chris Knights kicked two goals each.

Adelaide kicked the first goal of the match through Knights at the five-minute mark but the rest of the term belonged to the Power.

Port suffocated the Crows’ running game with their relentless pressure, dominated the clearances and moved the football well as they slammed on four of the last six goals of the quarter - one of which was a super goal from skipper Domenic Cassisi - to go into the first change with a 16-point advantage.

The Crows won more of the football in the second term and closed to within eight points thanks to majors from Vince and Burton who converted a set shot from an acute angle.

The Power struggled to play with the same level of fluidity that they did in the opening stanza but they hung tough and went into the main break with a handy 14-point break after Banner kicked a late goal.

Knights booted his second on the back of a soft free kick before Port took control of the contest.

They won the clearances 12-3, the inside 50 count 16-6 and piled on seven unanswered goals.

Thomson got Port going with two goals in the space of a minute before Westhoff kicked the last three majors of the quarter to give his side a match-winning 57-point lead at three-quarter time.

ADELAIDE: 0.3.3, 0.6.7, 0.7.7, 1.8.10 (67)
PORT ADELAIDE: 1.4.4, 1.7.6, 1.14.13, 2.15.15 (123)
SUPER GOALS: ADELAIDE : Goodwin
PORT ADELAIDE: Cassisi 2
GOALS: ADELAIDE: Vince 2, Knights 2, Burton 2, Douglas, Walker
PORT ADELAIDE:Westhoff 3, Banner 2, Thompson 2, Hitchcock 2, Stewart 2, Boak, Ebert, Schulz, Logan
BEST: ADELAIDE: Goodwin, Dangerfield, Douglas, Vince
PORT ADELAIDE: Krakouer, Boak, Salopek, Cassisi, Westhoff, Banner, Hitchcock
INJURIES: ADELAIDE: Nil
PORT ADELAIDE: Brogan (quad), Hitchcock (shoulder)
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: Jeffery, Hay, Mitchell
CROWD: TBC

31
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Port Adelaide Power
   


Eagles too good for Bombers

February 12th 2010 12:15
WEST COAST is through to the second round of the NAB Cup after recording a 35-point win over Essendon at Subiaco Oval on Friday night.

The Eagles set up the win with a dominant third term before eventually prevailing 1.17.8 (117) to 0.12.10 (82).

It was West Coast’s first victory in the pre-season competition since 2005.

Nic Naitanui ehanced his reputation as a genuine star in the making with 18 possessions, 21 hit-outs, seven clearances and four goals while Josh Kennedy and Mark LeCras chimed in with three majors apiece.

Chris Masten and Matt Priddis were busy contributors with 24 disposals each while Brad Sheppard and Luke Shuey showed some promising signs on debut.

For the Bombers, skipper Jobe Watson racked up a game-high 32 touches, Mark McVeigh and Brent Prismall battled hard while former Hawk Mark Williams booted three goals in his first match for the club.

The Eagles jumped out of the blocks with Kennedy and Ashley Hansen kicking goals in the opening two minutes before the Bombers clicked into top gear.

They moved the football quickly through the middle of the ground as they slammed on seven of the next eight majors with Jason Winderlich and Angus Monfries chipping in with two apiece to help the Dons to a 25-point lead at quarter-time.

Back-to-back majors from Williams saw Essendon open up a 30-point break early in the second term.

It appeared as if the Bombers would run away with the contest but Naitanui sparked his teammates into action with his work around the ground.

The Eagles were swifter in their movement of the football and responded with four unanswered goals, including a brilliant snap from Naitanui from an acute angle at the 22-minute mark to reduce the deficit to less than one straight kick.

West Coast thought they had regained the lead when Andrew Embley soccered one home in the dying seconds of the first half but the goal was cancelled after replays showed the ball had hit the post before the 2006 Norm Smith Medallist had got a boot to it.

Hansen’s second early in the third quarter gave the Eagles the back lead for the first time before Naitanui booted a super goal to give his side a 10-point buffer.

It was all one-way traffic from that moment as West Coast added a further five goals with LeCras chiming in with two as the margin blew out to 41 points at three-quarter time.

Majors from Kennedy and Naitanui made it 13 unanswered goals for the Eagles before the Bombers kicked the last three goals of the match to add some respectability to the scoreboard.

WEST COAST: 0.3.0, 0.8.5, 1.14.8, 1.16.12 (117)
ESSENDON: 0.7.1, 0.9.3, 0.9.6, 0.12.10 (82)
SUPER GOALS: WEST COAST: Naitanui
ESSENDON:
GOALS: WEST COAST: LeCras 3, Kennedy 3, Naitanui 3, Hansen 2, Rosa, Embley, Masten, Schofield, Nicoski
ESSENDON: Williams 3, Monfries 2, Winderlich 2, Jetta 2, Still, Reimers, Zaharakis
BEST: WEST COAST: Naitanui, Masten, Kennedy, Lecras, Priddis
ESSENDON: Watson, McVeigh, Prismall, Winderlich
INJURIES: WEST COAST: Nil
ESSENDON: Nil
REPORTS: Nil
CHANGES: Nil
UMPIRES: Michael Vozzo (2), Matt Stevic (9), Troy Pannell (28)
CROWD 23,860 at Subiaco Oval

12
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, West Coast Eagles
   


Bombers suspend Hurley

February 11th 2010 04:39
ESSENDON has suspended Michael Hurley from playing in the 2010 NAB Cup and Challenge competition after he was charged with assault following an altercation with a taxi driver in September.

The 19-year-old, who has been charged with five counts of assault, will reappear in court on March 5.

Bombers chief executive said the suspension was one part of the club's punishment for the talented youngster.

"Michael made a serious mistake and he is extremely remorseful for his actions," Robson said.

"He accepts that the club has imposed this sanction, and will take further action, and he will continue to fully co-operate with police and the courts."

Robson said the sanction does not speak to Hurley's guilt or innocence on the assault charges and will stand regardless of the court outcome.

32
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Essendon Bombers
   


NAB Cup Squads: Round One

February 11th 2010 01:53
NAB Cup

ROUND ONE - WEEK ONE (All times local)

Friday February 12
West Coast v Essendon at Subiaco Oval, 5.45pm

Saturday February 13
Adelaide v Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium, 4.10pm
Hawthorn v Richmond at Aurora Stadium, 7.40pm

Sunday February 14
Western Bulldogs v Brisbane Lions at Manuka Oval, 4.40pm

WEST COAST v ESSENDON
WEST COAST
2. Mark LeCras, 4. Daniel Kerr, 5. Brad Ebert, 6. Mark Nicoski, 7. Chris Masten, 9. Nic Naitanui, 10. Scott Selwood, 11. Matt Priddis, 12. Brad Sheppard, 13. Luke Shuey, 17. Josh Kennedy, 18. Bradd Dalziell, 21. Quinten Lynch, 23. Darren Glass, 24. Matt Rosa, 25. Shannon Hurn, 26. Sam Butler, 27. Ben McKinley, 28. Ashley Smith, 29. Ashley Hansen, 31. Will Schofield, 32. Andrew Embley, 33. Jordan Jones, 34. Tony Notte, 37. Adam Selwood, 38. Brett Jones, 40. Will Sullivan, 42. Beau Wilkes, 47. Lewis Stevenson.

ESSENDON
2. Ricky Dyson, 4. Jobe Watson, 6. Angus Monfries, 7. Leroy Jetta, 8. Jason Winderlich, 9. Brent Prismall, 10. Mark McVeigh, 11. David Zaharakis, 12. Andrew Welsh, 14. Sam Lonergan, 16. Tayte Pears, 17. Jake Melksham, 20. Henry Slattery, 25. Michael Still, 26. Cale Hooker, 28. Darcy Daniher, 29. Alwyn Davey, 30. Patrick Ryder, 31. Dustin Fletcher, 32. Travis Colyer, 33. Mark Williams, 34. Kyle Hardingham, 37. Kyle Reimers, 38. Jarrod Atkinson, 39. Heath Hocking, 42. Nathan Lovett-Murray, 43. Bachar Houli, 44. Tom Bellchambers, 46. Christian Bock.

ADELAIDE v PORT ADELAIDE
ADELAIDE
3. Brent Reilly, 4. Kurt Tippett, 6. Jonathon Griffin, 8. Myke Cook, 9. Tyson Edwards, 10. Jarrhan Jacky, 11. Michael Doughty, 13. Taylor Walker, 14. David Mackay, 16. Phil Davis, 17. Bernie Vince, 18. Graham Johncock, 20. Ivan Maric, 21. Chris Knights, 23. Andrew McLeod, 24. Brett Burton, 25. Ben Rutten, 26. Richard Douglas, 27. Scott Stevens, 29. James Sellar, 31. Rory Sloane, 32. Patrick Dangerfield, 33. Jared Petrenko, 35. Shaun McKernan, 36. Simon Goodwin, 37. Trent Hentschel, 38. Tony Armstrong, 39. Will Young, 46. Chris Schmidt.

PORT ADELAIDE
1. Domenic Cassisi, 3. Steven Salopek, 4. Daniel Motlop, 5. Matthew Broadbent, 6. Danyle Pearce, 7. Nathan Krakouer, 9. Jacob Surjan, 10. Travis Boak, 12. Jackson Trengove, 13. Wade Thompson, 14. Paul Stewart, 16. Warren Tredrea, 18. Kane Cornes, 19. Nick Salter, 20. Dean Brogan, 23. Matthew Lobbe, 24. Matthew Westhoff, 26. Andrew Moore, 27. Alipate Carlile, 28. Jay Schulz, 29. Jasper Pittard, 30. Troy Chaplin, 31. Mitchell Banner, 33. Brett Ebert, 38. Scott Harding, 39. Justin Westhoff, 43. Daniel Stewart, 44. Tom Logan, 45. Cameron Hitchcock.

HAWTHORN v RICHMOND
HAWTHORN
2. Jarryd Roughead, 3. Jordan Lewis, 4. Rick Ladson, 5. Sam Mitchell, 6. Josh Gibson, 8. Xavier Ellis, 12. Brad Sewell, 13. Simon Taylor, 14. Grant Birchall, 15. Luke Hodge, 16. Beau Dowler, 17. Beau Muston, 18. Brent Guerra, 19. Jarryd Morton, 21. Shane Savage, 23. Lance Franklin, 25. Ryan Schoenmakers, 26. Liam Shiels, 27. Stephen Gilham, 28. Garry Moss, 29. Tom Murphy, 30. Campbell Brown, 31. Matthew Suckling, 36. Jordan Lisle, 39. Ben Statton, 42. Wayde Skipper, 43. Will Sierakowski, 45. Jarrod Kayler-Thomson, 47. Luke Bruest.

RICHMOND
2. Will Thursfield, 3. Brett Deledio, 6. Graham Polak, 8. Jack Riewoldt, 9. Trent Cotchin, 10. Shane Edwards, 14. Dean Polo, 15. Mitch Farmer, 17. Chris Newman, 18. Alex Rance, 19. Daniel Connors, 20. Mitch Morton, 21. Shane Tuck, 24. Andrew Collins, 25. Angus Graham, 26. Robin Nahas, 27. Tom Hislop, 29. Tyrone Vickery, 30. Richard Tambling, 31. Adam Thomson, 33. David Gourdis, 35. Matthew White, 36. Dustin Martin, 37. Jayden Post, 39. David Astbury, 40. Kel Moore, 46. Jeromey Webberley, 47. Ben Nason, 50. Relton Roberts.

WESTERN BULLDOGS v BRISBANE LIONS
WESTERN BULLDOGS
1. Jarrad Grant, 2. Robert Murphy, 3. Andrejs Everitt, 4. Daniel Cross, 5. Matthew Boyd, 7. Shaun Higgins, 8. Mitch Hahn, 9. Lindsay Gilbee, 12. Tom Williams, 13. Daniel Giansiracusa, 14. Callan Ward, 15. Ben Hudson, 16. Ryan Griffen, 17. Adam Cooney, 18. Brennan Stack, 19. Liam Jones, 20. Josh Hill, 22. Dylan Addison, 23. Jordan Roughead, 31. James Mulligan, 32. Jarrad Boumann, 33. Tim Callan, 36. Brian Lake, 37. Lukas Markovic, 38. Dale Morris, 40. Jarrod Harbrow, 42. Liam Picken, 44. Brodie Moles, 47. Patrick Rose.

BRISBANE LIONS
1. Mitch Clark, 4. Travis Johnstone, 5. Brendan Fevola, 7. Jed Adcock, 8. Matt Austin, 10. Daniel Rich, 11. Justin Sherman, 12. James Hawksley, 14. Brent Staker, 17. Jared Brennan, 18. Todd Banfield, 19. Jamie Charman, 21. Daniel Merrett, 22. Tom Collier, 23. Matthew Leuenberger, 24. Joel Patfull, 26. Ryan Harwood, 27. Josh Dyson, 29. Andrew Raines, 30. Jack Redden, 31. James Polkinghorne, 32. Cheynee Stiller, 33. Amon Buchanan, 34. Jesse O’Brien, 35. Michael Rischitelli, 38. Tom Rockliff, 43. Claye Beams, 44. Aaron Cornelius, 45. Sean Yoshiura.
31
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Club-by-club injury lists

February 10th 2010 04:45
YOUR club's full injury list.

ADELAIDE
Brodie Martin (knee) - Likely to return midway through 2010
Andy Otten (knee) - Out for season
Nathan van Berlo (back) - Indefinite
Jason Porplyzia (pelvis) - Chance to play in second round of NAB Cup
Brad Moran (knee) - Two weeks away from playing

BRISBANE
Callum Barlett (knee) - Indefinite
Xavier Clarke (knee) - Indefinite
Pat Garner (knee) - Indefinite

CARLTON
Marc Murphy (hip) - Tipped to play in the latter stages of the pre-season competition
Jarrad Waite (knee) - Chance to return towards the end of the NAB Cup

COLLINGWOOD
Brad Dick (shoulder) - Will miss half of 2010 season

ESSENDON
Scott Gumbleton (back) - Will miss just the opening NAB Cup match after suffering back spasms at training
David Hille (knee) - Ruled out of NAB Cup but is a chance to play in round one
Jason Laycock (calf) - Will miss at least half of the NAB Cup
Jay Neagle (groin) - Likely to miss most of the pre-season

FREMANTLE
Steven Dodd (shoulder) - Could return early in the season after being initially ruled out until round 10
Rhys Palmer (knee) - Chance to play in round one
Tim Ruffles (knee) - Will return midway through 2010

GEELONG
Mitch Brown (leg) - Underwent further surgery on his leg and also had surgery on his ankle to remove a bone spur. Has been placed on the long-term injury list and is expected to miss the first 1-2 months of the season
Josh Hunt (knee) - Expected to play at some stage during the pre-season
Steve Johnson (hip) - Could play a role late in the pre-season
Brad Ottens (diagnosis unknown) - Likely to miss some early pre-season games after suffering lacerations in a speedboat accident.

HAWTHORN
Max Bailey (knee) - Out for season
Brent Renouf (forearm) - May play late in the pre-season after suffering burns in a beach accident on New Year's Eve
Cyril Rioli (groin) - Likely to miss the early part of the NAB Cup but is expected to be right come round one
Cameron Stokes (knee) - Indefinite

MELBOURNE
Austin Wonaeamirri (hamstring) - Indefinite

NORTH MELBOURNE
Ben Cunnington (foot) - Expected to be sidelined for the next four weeks
Alan Obst (quad) - Chance to play late in the pre-season
Daniel Wells (groin) - Progressing well in his recovery after post-season groin surgery and is a chance to play in round one

PORT ADELAIDE
Hamish Hartlett (hamstring) - Expected to be available for selection late in the pre-season
David Rodan (knee) - Indefinite

RICHMOND
Nathan Foley (ankle) - Likely to miss the start of the 2010 season after undergoing further surgery in late January on the ankle which prematurely ended his 2009 season

ST KILDA
Jesse Smith (hamstring) - Indefinite

SYDNEY
Daniel Bradshaw (knee) - Will miss all of the NAB Cup but will be fit for round one

WESTERN BULLDOGS
Nathan Eagleton (knee) - Expected to be right for round one
Christian Howard (hip) - Likely to miss all of the pre-season matches
Will Minson (foot) - Indefinite
Dale Morris (tibial fracture) - Indefinite
Brad Johnson (Achilles) - Expected to play late in the NAB Cup

WEST COAST
Dean Cox (abdominal) - Likely to play in the second round of the pre-season competition
Beau Waters (elbow) - Indefinite
21
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Blues announce deal with Mars

February 9th 2010 01:47
CARLTON has announced that confectionary giant Mars will be a joint major sponsor of the club for the next three years.

The Mars logo will appear on the Blues' guernsey and on the official apparel for the players and coaching staff.

Carlton chief executive Greg Swann said the deal was significant.

"The MARS Bar is an iconic brand, Carlton is one of the biggest brands in Australian sport and we are delighted with our new association which is a significant commitment by both organisations," Swann said.

The Victorian-based company joins Hyundai as a major sponsor.

"MARS has a long history of supporting sport at both grass roots and elite level and have been involved with AFL players and clubs for many years. This new sponsorship is by far the biggest AFL involvement we have had and it is appropriate that we partner with Carlton, one of the biggest names in Australian sport," Peter West, General Manager Mars Snackfood, said.

"We have been manufacturing MARS Bars in Australia for over 30 years and the heritage of our brand has always been around celebrating active lifestyles as expressed in the Work Rest Play campaign. This partnership is a natural fit for the MARS brand and will further promote an active lifestyle."

The confectionary company's logo will first appear on the Carlton jumper in the Blues' round one NAB Cup clash with Sydney at Blacktown on February 20.
21
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Carlton Blues
   


Port secures joint major sponsor

February 8th 2010 09:33
PORT ADELAIDE has secured the first of its joint major sponsors for the 2010 season.

South Australian-based business myATM has joined the Power on a five-year deal.

The news is a massive boost for Port after Vodafone and Bianco Construction Supplies cut ties with the club during the off-season.

myATM helps finance and place ATM machines in locations independent of the major banks, including retail outlets.

23
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Port Adelaide Power
   


Cats ban Stokes until round eight

February 8th 2010 05:54
GEELONG has imposed a raft of sanctions on premiership forward Mathew Stokes after he was charged with possessing and trafficking one gram of cocaine last week, including banning him from AFL action until round eight.

The club's leadership group decided on the sanctions after a meeting with Stokes last Thursday.

The sanctions are:

- Stokes has been suspended from consideration for selection in the club's AFL team until round eight.

- From Monday February 8 until round one of the AFL season, Stokes can train at the club only when no other players are present.

- From round one to round four of the AFL season, Stokes can train with the club's VFL listed players only.

- From round five to round seven to of the AFL season, Stokes can train with the VFL squad and will be eligible to play in the VFL.

- From round eight, Stokes will be eligible to train with the full squad and for selection in the club's AFL team.

- Stokes will be fined $5,000, the maximum sanction under the AFL player's code of conduct.

- Between now and round four of the AFL season, Stokes is to find full time employment and conduct any training out of working hours.

- Stokes is to establish a relationship with a drug-related community program and assist with that program on an on-going basis.

"These sanctions do not speak to Mathew Stokes' guilt or innocence on the charges issued by the Victoria Police on Wednesday, and will stand regardless of the outcome of those charges," the Cats said in a statement.

"The penalty does not take into account any possible action under the anti-doping code, as the club does not have jurisdiction in this area."

The club stood Stokes down after he appeared in Geelong Magistrates' Court last Wednesday. He was released on bail and will reappear in court on March 12.

If the 25-year-old is found guilty of trafficking he could be banned from AFL football for life.

Geelong will make no further comment on the matter until after its dealt with in court.
22
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


AFL to trial four new rules in NAB Cup

February 8th 2010 03:32
THE AFL will trial four new rules in this year's NAB Cup which gets underway on Friday night when West Coast hosts Essendon at Subiaco Oval.

The biggest rule change sees the four boundary umpires given the power to award free kicks for holding infringements at stoppages.

A free kick for holding the ball will go against a player who drags the ball in under an opponent in an attempt to win a holding-the-ball free kick.

There has also been a change to the advantage rule with the onus now on the player rather than the umpire to determine whether it is advantageous to play on. If a player elects to play on and turns the ball over it will not be brought back to the position of the initial infringement.

The final rule change sees the no-go zone - which was initially used at centre bounces to prevent players from colliding with umpires - now introduced around the ground. Any player who enters the zone behind the umpire at or after a stoppage will be penalised.

AFL football operations manager Adrian Anderson said that none of the rules will be introduced immediately into the home-and-away season but the league will assess their effectiveness to determine whether they warrant being used in the season proper.
22
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Mayne recommits to Dockers

February 7th 2010 03:06
FREMANTLE forward Chris Mayne has signed a one-year contract extension with the Dockers which will see him remain at the club until at least the end of the 2011 season.

Taken with pick 40 in the 2007 national draft, Mayne was restricted to just five games last season due to a serious Achilles injury.

But the 21-year-old has shown plenty of class in his 22 AFL games and is set to play a key role in Fremantle's forward line alongside skipper Matthew Pavlich and goalsneak Hayden Ballantyne.

"Chris is an exciting talent and we are delighted that he has committed to the club through to the end of the 2011 season,'' Dockers player manager Brad Lloyd said.
35
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Fremantle Dockers
   


Cassisi reappointed Port captain

February 5th 2010 03:52
DOMENIC Cassisi has been reappointed captain of Port Adelaide and will be supported by two new deputies in Dean Brogan and Jacob Surjan.

Cassisi - a 149-game veteran - replaced Warren Tredrea as skipper in 2009.

Brogan was drafted as a rookie from South Adelaide at the end of 2000 after winning an NBL championship with the Adelaide 36ers, while Surjan was recruited via the 2004 pre-season draft.

Port coach Mark Williams said the results of a pyschological profile questionnaire showed the trio were ideal leaders.

"It stands out that these three guys are the most dominant, most vocal, best communicators and are comfortable in their own skin as far as where they sit within the organisation and the AFL world," Williams said.

Cassisi, who won the 2009 Fos Williams medal for best team man as voted by his teammates, said he is excited about heading into his second year as captain.

"Last year being my first year as captain I took time to develop and learn what was required both on and off the field. With a year now under my belt I'm really excited about this year and already feel a lot more comfortable in the role,” Cassisi said.

Below Cassisi, Brogan and Surjan is a group of 10 players that have been identified as having leadership qualities.

Williams said the club would provide them with extra support to ensure they are ready for a leadership role in the future.
13
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Port Adelaide Power
   


Bradshaw to miss NAB Cup

February 3rd 2010 09:00
NEW Sydney Swans forward Daniel Bradshaw will miss the club's NAB Cup campaign after undergoing knee surgery on Wednesday.

Scans revealed the former Brisbane Lion had cartilage floating in his knee and he had an arthroscope to remove the debris.

The 31-year-old is tipped to resume running in two to three weeks and is expected to be right for Sydney's round one clash against St Kilda at ANZ Stadium.

23
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Sydney Swans
   


Stokes facing possible lifetime ban

February 3rd 2010 08:15
GEELONG premiership forward Mathew Stokes is facing a possible lifetime ban from AFL football if he is convicted of the trafficking charge laid against him on Wednesday.

Stokes was stood down by the Cats after he was arrested and charged with trafficking and possessing one gram of cocaine.

The 25-year-old told police he purchased the drug for friends visiting from Darwin but he didn't consume any of the cocaine.

Stokes was granted bail after facing Geelong Magistrates' Court on Wednesday afternoon and will reappear in court on March 12.

AFL football operations manager Adrian Anderson said under the World Anti-Doping Agency code - to which the AFL is a signatory - Stokes could be banned for life if found guilty of trafficking.

"Any charge of trafficking is a very serious matter and one that Geelong and the AFL takes extremely seriously," Anderson said.

"The AFL supports Geelong's decision to stand Mathew Stokes down until further notice. Under the WADA code, the standard penalties for trafficking range from four years suspension to a lifetime ban."

Anderson said the AFL was still seeking more details on the matter. He also added that the league was confident that no other players were involved.

34
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


Stokes stood down

February 3rd 2010 05:55
GEELONG premiership player Mathew Stokes has been banned from the club until further notice after being arrested and charged with trafficking and possessing cocaine on Wednesday.

The 25-year-old small forward was granted bail after appearing in the Geelong Magistrates' Court. He is scheduled to reappear in court on March 12.

Stokes told police he purchased one gram of cocaine for friends visiting from Darwin but he didn't consume any of the drug.

Cats chief executive Brian Cook said in a statement the club was 'disappointed by the turn of events today'.

"Given the gravity of the charges we have decided that Mathew will be stood down from all club activity as we attempt to gather all the facts of this matter," Cook said.

"This is not a rush to judgment but a reflection on the seriousness of the situation."

"It is important for Mathew that he deals with legal issues at hand as his first priority."

"As we have in the past, the club will not rush to formulate a long-term determination of any penalty."

"Mathew is obviously very upset by what has happened and we'll give him a little time to gather his thoughts and then we'll sit down with him and work through the situation."

"The club has been in contact with the AFL throughout the day to ensure that they have been kept informed."

Stokes was questioned by detectives on Wednesday morning as part of a lengthy drug investigation in the Geelong area.

Acting Inspector Michael Baker said Stokes had been 'very helpful' with police inquiries.

No other Geelong players are under investigation.

Stokes' arrest came after a series of drug raids in Geelong last Friday which resulted in police seizing more than $3000 in cash and about $50,000 worth of drugs from four properties.

Taken with pick 61 in the 2005 national draft, Stokes has played 71 games and kicked 108 goals for the Cats.

He was a member of Geelong's 2007 premiership side but missed out on last year's grand final win over St Kilda.



25
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Geelong Cats
   


Lovett lodges grievance

February 2nd 2010 23:55
ANDREW Lovett has lodged an official grievance with the St Kilda Football Club over its treatment of him after a woman made a complaint to the police about an alleged sexual assault in December.

The 27-year-old, who is under police investigation over the alleged incident, was suspended indefinitely by the Saints on Christmas Eve.

St Kilda met with Lovett's management and legal representation on Tuesday and said they would be complying with the AFL's Collective Bargaining Agreement but would make no further comment on the matter.

The Saints gave up pick 16 in the national draft during October's trade week to bring the speedster over from Essendon on a three-year deal but it's uncertain whether he will ever pull on a St Kilda jumper.

The allegations of sexual assault came after Lovett was arrested and charged with being drunk in a public place - just six weeks after being traded to the Saints.

Lovett played played 88 games in five seasons with the Bombers but his time at Windy Hill was marred by a series of off-field indiscretions.

35
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, St Kilda Saints
   


AFL crackdown on stagers

February 2nd 2010 02:03
THE act of staging for a free kick is now a reportable offence after the AFL implemented changes following the recommendations of the annual Tribunal Review.

The league sees it as an offence as it may affect umpires' decision-making, may incite a melee and is not in the spirit of the game.

Players found guilty of staging will be hit with a reprimand for their first offence, a $1600 fine for their second time and $2400 for a third offence.

There will also be extra protection for the man on the mark with bumping a player on the mark with excessive force now considered rough conduct and reportable.

Spear tackles and sling tackles will also be reportable under rough conduct while the head-butting and eye-gouging offences have been raised in their level of seriousness.

In other amendments, the fine for making negligent contact with an umpire has been reduced, negligent umpire contact will result in an automatic fine, the financial penalty for abusive language has been increased while first and second-year players can now only be fined half of their match payment for a first offence.

AFL football operations manager Adrian Anderson said the game was being played in the right manner.

"The game is being played in a great spirit, which is the overall objective of the tribunal system, and the 2009 grand final is a classic example of that," Anderson said.

"In 2009, there were only 68 matches lost through suspension - the lowest tally since 1985."

15
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Kreuzer re-signs with Blues

February 1st 2010 08:38
EXCITING young Carlton ruckman Matthew Kreuzer has signed a new two-year deal with the Blues which will see him remain at Visy Park until at least the end of the 2012 season.

Taken with pick one in the 2007 national draft, Kreuzer has played every match since making his AFL debut in round three.

The 20-year-old won Carlton's best first year player award in 2008 and was also a NAB Rising Star nominee.

Last season he finished fifth in the club's best-and-fairest count.

"We are delighted that Matthew has committed to continuing his career with Carlton," Blues football operations manager Steven Icke said.

"He is an outstanding young man and has shown in his first two years in the AFL, where he has had an immediate impact at Carlton and in the competition, that he has a sensational career in front of him."

Kreuzer said it was a 'fantastic time' to be at the Blues.

"Obviously the improvement on the field and playing a final last year was great and I look forward to playing more finals and enjoying success with everyone at Carlton," Kreuzer said.

"Together with the sensational new facilities at Visy Park certainly makes Carlton a great place to be."

Meanwhile, Ryan Houlihan, Andrew Walker and Eddie Betts trained with the senior squad on Monday after completing their month-long bans for their alcohol-fuelled misdemeanours prior to Christmas but they remain ineligible for selection for Carlton's NAB Cup campaign.
28
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Carlton Blues
   


Tigers draftee charged

February 1st 2010 06:41
RICHMOND draftee Troy Taylor has been charged with one count of assault and will appear in Alice Springs Magistrates Court on February 18.

Taylor, taken with pick 51 in last year's national draft, was charged over an incident in Alice Springs on New Year's Eve in which three men were allegedly assaulted

"We knew Troy had a number of issues he was dealing with when we drafted him," Richmond chief executive Brendon Gale said.

"The Richmond Football Club has a professional network of support helping Troy address his issues but we have also advised Troy that he needs to take personal responsibility for the decisions he makes," Gale said.

Due to legal reasons the Tigers will make no further comment on the matter until after the 18-year-old appears in court.

26
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Richmond Tigers
   


Team GWS signs South African

February 1st 2010 06:15
TEAM GWS has given South African Bayanda Sobetwa a scholarship with the club.

The 19-year-old, who hails from Khayelitsha township, south-east of Cape Town, will fly to Australia this month to begin training with the AFL's proposed 18th team and will play for their TAC Cup side this season.

As part of his scholarship, Sobetwa will also undertake an AFL SportsReady traineeship which will combine study and work in multicultural development in Western Sydney.

Sobetwa started playing AFL in 2007 when footyWILD was introduced in his community and is the first ever player from the South African pathway to be signed to an AFL club.

His impressive talent was first recognised in December 2007 when he took part in the Adam Ramanauskas talent camp in Pretoria.

Since then he represented South Africa against the AIS/AFL Academy in 2008/2009 and performed strongly during the 2008 International Cup in which South Africa finished third out of 16 countries.

Late last year he trained with North Melbourne after receiving the Mtutuzeli Hlomela scholarship.

GWS coach Kevin Sheedy said Sobetwa’s scholarship was a huge achievement following the AFL's work in South Africa.

“It’s great to see that the time we’ve spent in South Africa is starting to bear some real opportunities for these kids that may never have had the chance to play top level sport,” Sheedy said.

“It’s tremendous to have AFL SportsReady support this young man’s future. It’s quite amazing where these types of opportunities can take young people today - over 6000 young people have found a job through the program.

“The essence here is that the game is moving outside of Australia, a lot of hard work has been done by Brian Dixon and the AFL staff in South Africa to create this pathway. It’s clubs like Team GWS who will need to strengthen that pathway for the many international people coming to Australia."
39
Vote
Comments (1)Comments (1) Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News
   


Crows announce naming rights deal

February 1st 2010 04:07
THE Adelaide Crows' new $21m training and entertainment centre at AAMI Stadium will be known as Westpac Centre under a five-year naming rights deal announced on Monday.

The facility which opened last October is a unique world-class complex situated on the eastern side of AAMI Stadium.

"The new facility is much more than a football training venue," Adelaide chief executive Steven Trigg said.

"It offers a unique facility with so many options, to both business and the community, here in South Australia, nationally and internationally."

"So it is both appropriate and significant that Westpac, which is such a respected brand and a business leader, has seen fit to partner with us in our world class development."

The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.

Westpac has been a corporate partner of the Adelaide Football Club since 1999.

26
Vote
Add CommentsAdd Comments
[ Link ]
Posted By: TonyK - Category: AFL News, Adelaide Crows
   


More Posts
August 2010
1 Posts
May 2010
73 Posts
April 2010
61 Posts
Older Posts
3205 Posts dating from August 2006
Email Subscription
Receive e-mail notifications of new posts on this blog:
[ View Blog Summary ] [ Create A New Post ]
Moderated by TonyK
Copyright © 2006 2007 2008 On Topic Media PTY LTD. All Rights Reserved. Design by Vimu.com.
On Topic Media ZPages: Sydney |  Melbourne |  Brisbane |  London |  Birmingham |  Leeds     [ Advertise ] [ Contact Us ] [ Privacy Policy ]