Players 'guinea pigs' for new rule

Adelaide's Brent Reilly crashes into the legs of Alwyn Davey, giving away a free kick. Picture: Simon Cross Source: Herald Sun

Essendon put woes behind them by winning season opener.

ADELAIDE coach Brenton Sanderson says it is impossible to change players' instincts to try to win the ball even if it means giving away a free kick.

But both Essendon coach James Hird and his Adelaide counterpart Brenton Sanderson say it will take players time to adjust to a law change which is changing a fabric of the game.

The rule penalising players who slide into an opponent's legs was prevalent as Essendon won the season-opener in Adelaide on Friday night by 35 points.

Sanderson says his Crows players battled to adjust to being "guinea pigs" for the new rule.

Adelaide defender Brent Reilly conceded a goal from the law change: despite collecting the ball, he was penalised for cannoning into the legs of Essendon's Alwyn Davey.

Sanderson said Reilly wouldn't have given away a free kick for doing the same thing last year.

"It's a tricky one because it looked like Radar (Reilly) was going for the ball," he said.

"The interpretation of the new rule is that is now a free kick but we get penalised with a goal against.

LiveHQ - relive all the action plus full SuperCoach points

"We will have to have a look at that and show the players.

"I guess everyone now across the competition gets a first look at the guinea pigs - Essendon and the Crows will be the benchmark now for what that rule is.

"And it will be scrutinised pretty heavily throughout the media this week."

Sanderson said it was impossible to change the instinct of players to dive to win possession of ground balls.

"You can't change instinct, you have to teach better method," he said.

But Bombers coach James Hird said the new rule was well handled by players and umpires.

Watson inspires Bomber victory

"We spent a bit of time since our last NAB Cup game against GWS practising some things, not to get a free kick, but to avoid a free kick - the way we tackle, the way we go for the ball and that has certainly helped us," Hird said.

"It will take a while for players to get used to it and also for umpires to get used to it.

"I thought it was handled very well by the players and the umpires but that is probably a biased point of view because we won."

Picture gallery: Dons drop bomb on Crows

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Tackle count alarms Sando

Essendon put woes behind them by winning season opener.

Adelaide coach Brenton Sanderson looks for answers. Source: Getty Images

ADELAIDE coach Brenton Sanderson says the numbers are as ugly as the result.

The Crows took a beating from Essendon in key areas in their 35-point loss last night.

None concerned Sanderson more than tackling.

After spending a summer with improving Adelaide's tackling as his main priority, Sanderson's players laid just 47 tackles to Essendon's 73.

"The glaring stat for us is the tackles," Sanderson said.

"We couldn't stick tackles, they brushed us away and then they got some easy goals."

Sanderson's next concern was centre clearances, where his much-vaunted midfield was hammered by the Bombers who racked up 18 centre clearances to Adelaide's nine.

"We'll have to work out what exactly went wrong but it probably started in the centre bounce, the numbers there are ugly. They just killed us in centre bounce clearances," Sanderson said.

"We had our A-grade boys in there and unfortunately they got beat."

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Then there were uncontested possessions, with Essendon recording a whopping 49 more than the Crows. And also skill errors, with Adelaide recording 49 clangers for the game.

"If it was a tennis game, you would call them unforced errors," Sanderson said.

"There was times we could only blame ourselves ... we shot ourselves in the foot a lot with unforced errors."

Picture gallery: Dons drop bomb on Crows

Sanderson was also worried that Adelaide lacked dash and daring.

"It looked like we were quite stagnant at times, we didn't want to take risks, we didn't want to take the game on," he said.

"We play our best footy when we're dynamic and we take the game on and we accelerate out of contests. That wasn't there."

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10 things we learnt last night

Essendon put woes behind them by winning season opener.

Brendon Goddard celebrates after kicking a goal for Essendon. Source: Getty Images

A NEW Bomber cult hero, SuperCoach clangers and Channel 7 goes back to the future. Oh, and has anyone seen the coin for the toss?

1. JOBE WELL DONE

WE already knew it, but Jobe Watson is a freak. The Bombers captain almost single-handedly stopped his side's first-quarter rut and sparked Essendon with a grinding, inspirational midfield onslaught which the Crows were powerless to stop. And Kevin Sheedy wanted to trade this bloke?

2. KURT LEFT A CHASM

HE wore No. 4 and spent the entire night in attack, but Josh Jenkins just doesn't have the prowess of Kurt Tippett. It left the Crows weak in attack and with Taylor Walker shutdown, void of scoring power for about a 40 minute stretch bookending the second quarter.

3. DIVING DONE FOR GOOD

LIKE it or lump it, the contact below the knees rule is here. Brent Reilly found out the hard way last night when he slid into Alwyn Davey, taking out the small forward's legs. The result? An instant free kick and goal for the Dons. The crowd didn't like it - and Crows coach Brenton Sanderson says it goes against the basic instincts of players - but that's the rule.

Adelaide's Brent Reilly crashes into the legs of Alwyn Davey, giving away a free kick. Picture: Simon Cross Source: Herald Sun

4. JAKE OUT OF THE BOX

JAKE Carlisle is one to watch. The key defender won't feature on many highlights reels, but his work on Tex Walker last night was sublime. He had help, but Carlisle's ability to negate space and keep the Crows star out of the action was superb. Walker jagged two last-quarter goals but the honours well and truly went the young Bombers' way.

LiveHQ: Relive all the action plus full SuperCoach scores

5. USE THE FLIPPIN' COIN

WHAT was going on at the coin toss last night? Instead of tossing it, the umpire directed the flipper to hold it in a hand behind her back and let the captains choose which one it was in. Made no sense. If it was an issue with the coin, pick up a can and get your 5c refund and go again. Bizarre way to start the season.

Picture gallery: Dons drop bomb on Crows

6. BJ QUIET BUT DEADLY

BRENDON Goddard might have had just 14 disposals in a quiet debut, but he showed just how devastating he could be for the Bombers. The marquee recruit only needs a handful of kicks to damage the opposition, as he showed with his magnificent booming set-shot goal in the second term. When this bloke racks up 25-touches plus, the Bombers are going to be hard to beat.

Brendon Goddard celebrates after kicking a goal for Essendon. Source: Getty Images

7. SPLIT SCREEN NOSTALGIA

CHANNEL 7 brought back the picture-in-picture action to its broadcast last night, and it was far from a hit with the public. The network was slammed on social media for bringing back a fad that had the sword sliced through it in the 1990s. Let's see if it remains.

8. KOMMER PUTS EXCLAMATION MARK ON WIN

IT SEEMS the Dons have unearthed another state-league gem in Nick Kommer. The long-haired 22-year-old plays with serious tenacity and just makes things happen. He showed steady nerves to kick the sealer, applied great pressure and delivered the ball impressively all night. He joins Michael Hibberd, Mark Baguley and Dylan van Unen as Bomber recruits from second-tier footy. That's a nice haul.

Essendon's Nick Kommer runs through the middle of AAMI Stadium. Source: Getty Images

9. SUPERCOACH SUPER FRUSTRATING

LEAGUE games are still three weeks away and we're four quarters into the season, and I want to tear my hear out. Hands up if you had Ben Howlett or Courtenay Dempsey? Didn't think so. Didn't even have Jobe. Instead loaded up on "premiums" Patrick Dangerfield and Goddard for an underwhelming 63 and 86 SuperCoach points respectively. Both face big price drops. Also had Luke Brown, who got injured. Oh boy. Saving grace was throwing Kommer in at the last-minute. Come on Fyfe and Coxy tonight. PS: keep an eye on David Zaharakis in about a month – his price will plummet after donning the green vest.

Adelaide's Patrick Dangerfield under extreme pressure. Source: Getty Images

10. MICHAEL HURLED FORWARD

A LOT of pre-season chatter about which end Michael Hurley would suit up at. He spent the entire match in attack last night and presented well without finding the big sticks. Daniel Talia did a tremendous job on him, but it looks like James Hird's Plan A this year will be to stick Hurley and Stewie Crameri up forward as a one-two punch.
 

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Viney on track for Dees debut

Jack Viney gets the footy moving forward during the Casey Scorpions vs Port Melbourne practise match at Casey Fields, Cranbourne. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

Mitch Clark kicks at goal at Casey Fields. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

JACK Viney is almost certain to debut for Melbourne against Port Adelaide next Sunday after a strong performance for Casey Scorpions today.

And the Demons have not given up hope that Mitch Clark and Jack Trengove could also play after both players got through three quarters unscathed of the game against Port Melbourne at Casey Fields.

Viney was one of the Scorpions' best players while Clark and Trengove were a little rusty after long layoffs.

Demons football manager Josh Mahoney confirmed Viney would likely make his debut next weekend, while Clark, Trengove and Chris Dawes (who did not play yesterday) would be assessed over the coming days.

"We were keen for him (Viney) to get one more (game) in and he played really well," Mahoney said.

"We would be expecting him to be very close to playing (in Round 1)."

Mahoney said Clark, Trengove and Dawes remain a chance to play, but the Demons would have to wary they do not take underdone players into the clash with Port Adelaide.

"They are a chance to play," he said. "It will be an interesting week - we will have some decisions to make."

Clark kicked one goal in his first game since a foot reconstruction after Round 13 last year.

He attacked the ball - and at times his opponents - with intent, but was sometimes frustrated by the opportunities that were presented to him.

Trengove looked a little underdone after overcoming stress fractures and struggled to have an impact.
Both he and Clark left the field midway through the last term.

Dean Kent, who had impressed the Demons during the pre-season, was reported after an incident just before quarter-time.

Meanwhile at Frankston, Adam Schneider put his hand up for selection in St Kilda's Round 1 side with a second strong performance for Sandringham in two weeks.

Read about how the St Kilda-listed players performed

HERE

.

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Retirements, injuries won't stop us

2013 preview: The Cats can cling to a finals berth with a mix of old heads and young talent, says Fox Footy expert Brad Johnson.

Geelong skipper Joel Selwood says Cat fans shouldn't be scared of what lies ahead. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG captain Joel Selwood admits Matthew Scarlett is irreplaceable, he's not sure how a makeshift ruck set-up will fare and suspended stars Steve Johnson and James Kelly will be missed.

It all points to the Cats, coming off their poorest season in six years, being unusually vulnerable when Hawthorn tries to break an extraordinary nine-match losing streak against Geelong on Easter Monday.

But Selwood doesn't see it that way.

Nor does he accept last year's emphatic elimination final dumping by Fremantle signals the end of the glory era which delivered the Cats three flags in five years.

"I'm not so scared like some other people might be and if you're a supporter I hope you're not either," Selwood said.

"We've gone out and we've got players that we think are going to help us and make us better."

Midfielder Josh Caddy (from Gold Coast), ruckman Hamish McIntosh (North Melbourne) and backman Jared Rivers (Melbourne) are the experienced recruits.

But McIntosh (knee) won't face the Hawks because of injury.

Nor will fellow ruck options Dawson Simpson (back) or Nathan Vardy (groin), while Trent West (knee) is only a slim chance.

Ex-steeplechaser Mark Blicavs, on the Cats' rookie list, has shown great pre-season promise in the ruck.

But Selwood says while the Cats are confident that can translate to a successful premiership season debut, they're not certain.

"We don't know," he said.

"Everything that he's done so far he's surprised us and I think it will continue that way."

Selwood says Rivers can't hope to emulate retired champion Scarlett in defence.

But having coped with losing other key planks of their golden era in recent seasons - such as Gary Ablett, Brad Ottens, Cameron Mooney, Tom Harley, Cameron Ling and Darren Milburn - the Cats expect to adapt again.

"We bring guys in that will give us something different," Selwood said.

"That's what Jared will do.

"We don't expect him to be Matthew Scarlett."

Selwood is confident Geelong can extend its streak against Hawthorn since the 2008 Grand Final loss to 10.

"It's one that you always highlight, the Hawthorn game," he said.

"We're going to miss James Kelly and Steve Johnson in that game and probably go in with under-sized ruckmen.

"Hopefully Westy will be thereabouts, but if not we'll take them on with whoever we've got.

"We've done it in the past and we look forward to doing that."

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Shuey braced for Crowley challenge

CLOSE COMPANY: Luke Shuey can expect another tight tag from Ryan Crowley in tomorrow's derby. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

WEST Coast midfielder Luke Shuey has thrived living in the shadows of Daniel Kerr, but his free ride is set to end this season.

With Kerr still on the sidelines recovering from knee surgery, opposition taggers are set to clamp down hard on Shuey, starting with tomorrow night's western derby against Fremantle.

Even when Kerr returns to action next month, taggers are likely to stick with Shuey more often than not given his destructive capabilities in the midfield.

Kerr has carried the mantle as West Coast's best midfielder ever since Chris Judd and Ben Cousins left the club at the end of 2007.

But there was a changing of the guard last year, with even Kerr admitting that taggers would be wiser to clamp down on Shuey instead of him.

"I wasn't happy with him. I put a big block of blue cheese in his locker that week," Shuey said with a laugh when asked about Kerr's comments.

Fremantle are one side who have already cottoned on to just how dangerous Shuey is, sending master tagger Ryan Crowley to him in the second western derby last year.

Kerr - no longer shackled by a tagger - racked up a game-high 36 possessions in that encounter.

But Fremantle's decision to play Crowley on Shuey proved to be a masterstroke, with the young Eagle restricted to a career-low 11 possessions as the Dockers romped to a 65-point victory.

That match-up is likely to be repeated tomorrow night.

Shuey says he hasn't copped many tags during his 52-game career, but admits he may have to end up getting used to them.

The 22-year-old said if that ends up happening, the likes of Scott Selwood, Matt Priddis and Kerr needed to make the most of their relative freedom.

"We are in the fortunate position where we do have three or four guys who can win a game off their own boot," Shuey said.

"It's going to make it a lot easier this year to play well if we share that load.

"I've been pretty lucky to play with Kerr for my first few years.

"(If you do get tagged), you've really got to sacrifice your own game a little bit and try to play a role for the team.

"But in the same context, you don't want to go too far away from playing your natural game."

Both sides enter the derby missing key players.

West Coast are without ruckman Nic Naitanui (groin), Kerr, Sharrod Wellingham (ankle), Matt Rosa (quad) and Mark Nicoski (hamstring), while Fremantle lost ruckmen Aaron Sandilands (hamstring) and Zac Clarke (foot).

Former St Kilda midfielder Jamie Cripps will make his debut for the Eagles, with the club also opting to include 20-year-old ruckman Scott Lycett to support Dean Cox.

Fremantle turned to Kepler Bradley to back Jon Griffin in the ruck, while 20-year-old Cameron Sutcliffe was included for just his fifth game.
 

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LIVE: Crows v Bombers

Essendon star Brendon Goddard celebrates after kicking his first goal for the Bombers. Tonight he'll make his season proper debut. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

BRENDON Goddard is just hours away from his Essendon debut, but prized Adelaide youngster Brad Crouch looks set to miss tonight's season-opener at AAMI Stadium.

Crouch was surprisingly left out of Adelaide's side but was named as coach Brenton Sanderson's first emergency.

BELOW: See the teams for tonight

The Dons will unveil Nick Kommer, their 22-year-old draftee from Western Australia, while the Crows will unleash former Don Josh Jenkins as a one-two punch in attack, along with star forward Taylor Walker.

SuperFooty will have live coverage of tonight's blockbuster, while LiveHQ is back and better than ever.

The match centre boasts live SuperCoach scores, stats and commentary and instant scores from the first bounce.

Check out LiveHQ right now

So Don't wait until you get home from the game to check how much you're beating your mates by in SuperCoach.

LiveHQ has been tailored to mobiles so its fast to load and easy to find all the info you need.

New for 2013, you can follow the match wherever you are with live scores, stats for every player and play-by-play commentary - completely free.

You can also see the updated game notes from SuperFooty's expert journos that will tell you every time there's a substitution, injury or controversy - and why Lance Franklin's SuperCoach score is going backwards.

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And every footy fan with a mobile can access live SuperCoach points through LiveHQ with a Herald Sun digital pass.

Click on LiveHQ on your desktop or tablet for an even more detailed view of the game.

ADELAIDE v ESSENDON, TONIGHT 8.40pm AAMI STADIUM

ADELAIDE

B: Luke Brown, Ben Rutten, Ricky Henderson

HB: Nathan van Berlo, Daniel Talia, Brent Reilly

C: Bernie Vince, Patrick Dangerfield, David Mackay

HF: Richard Douglas, Josh Jenkins, Jared Petrenko

F: Jason Porplyzia, Taylor Walker, Matthew Wright

RUCK: Sam Jacobs, Scott Thompson, Rory Sloane,

INTERCHANGE: Matthew Jaensch, Graham Johncock, Brodie Martin, Andy Otten

EMERGENCIES: Brad Couch, Shaun McKernan, Aidan Riley

ESSENDON

B: M Baguley, C Hooker, M Hibberd

HB: B Goddard, D Fletcher, J Carlisle

C: C Dempsey, J Watson, D Heppell

HF: D Zaharakis, P Ryder, S Crameri

FF: A Davey, M Hurley, N Kommer

R: T.Bellchambers, B Stanton,  B Howlett

INTERCHANGE: H Hocking, D Myers, J Melksham
J Merrett

EMERGENCIES: L Jetta, K Hardingham, E Kavanagh

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League will tighten drug loophole

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou is part of the drugs working party. Picture: Glenn Daniels Source: Herald Sun

THE AFL's illicit drugs working party has agreed to tighten the loophole which allows players to admit drug use yet dodge testers.

The self-reporting loophole will be tightened but not totally disregarded to ensure it is not abused by players.

Clubs believed a small number of players were reporting the use of drugs not as a cry for help, but simply as a way to sidestep positive strikes.

Some club officials even believed their players had done so when made aware testers were at their club.

But the AFL confirmed today the working party had agreed amendments would be drafted for review by the AFLPA and AFL, to be discussed again in 4-6 weeks.

The AFL Commission and player delegates of the player union would both need to agree to alterations of the AFL's illicit drugs policy.

"We also had considerable discussion about how the policy framework can be strengthened to deal with a very small number of players who might disrespect the policy's objectives and disregard how their off-field behaviour impacts on other players in the competition, their own club and the AFL itself," AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou said.

Demetriou chairs the working party, which also includes AFLPA chief executive Matt Finnis, AFL medical officers and club representatives.

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Eagles eye top-four spot

2013 preview: The Eagles have talent in every position and will be almost impossible to stop this year, says Fox Footy expert Brad Johnson.

Matt Priddis kicks the Eagles into attack. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

WEST Coast midfielder Matt Priddis says a top-four finish is critical if the club is to have a legitimate shot at winning this year's premiership.

Under the current finals format, no team has come from outside the top four to win the flag.

Adelaide won the premiership from fifth position in 1998, but that was under a system in which teams that finished fifth and sixth weren't necessarily eliminated if they lost in the first week of the finals.

The Eagles finished the home-and-away season in fifth place last year before being knocked out by Collingwood in an away semi-final.

West Coast is one of the flag favourites this year, and Priddis said it was crucial to grab a top-four spot and the double chance it brings.

"We know we've got to win the majority of our games to give ourselves the opportunity," Priddis said ahead of Saturday's season-opener against Fremantle at Patersons Stadium.

"We'd ultimately like to finish top-four to give ourselves a chance to really win a flag.

"Darren Glass is a great leader and he's extremely excited about the guys coming through in the backline.

"From a midfield point of view, adding Mark LeCras and Sharrod Wellingham into it this year is going to give us great flexibility and depth.

"And the depth in the forward line is exciting."

West Coast has been hit hard by injuries during the pre-season, with Daniel Kerr (knee), Nic Naitanui (groin), Wellingham (ankle), Matt Rosa (quad) and Mark Nicoski (hamstring) all unavailable for the early part of the season.

Fremantle is without ruckman Aaron Sandilands, who faces more time on the sidelines after aggravating his injured left hamstring.

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Jolly OK after lung scare

Darren Jolly cops a knee in the back in a ruck contest against Geelong. Picture: Harman Stephen Source: Herald Sun

Darren Jolly with trainers. Picture: Harman Stephen Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD ruckman Darren Jolly says he will line up in the Magpies' opening clash next week despite a stint in hospital.

Jolly was hospitalised after suffering a hit in his back in last Friday's practice-match loss to Geelong at Simmonds Stadium.

"I just copped a knock in the back, of all places, in the last quarter, which was purely an accident," Jolly said.

"I went into hospital as a precaution, just to make sure the lungs are OK.

"It's all good now."

However, Jolly admitted he had had an easier week following the incident "to settle down".

"I'm very confident (of playing in Round 1). I've dealt with injuries in the past and this is no different," he said.

"I'll make sure I look after it this week and be ready to go for next week."

Collingwood recruited former Adelaide, Western Bulldogs and Lions ruckman Ben Hudson as a ruck coach only to later recruit him in the rookie draft to shore up their playing stocks.

Jolly said he was happy that Hudson would play a role on-field at various times.

"I knew when Huddo was coming he was probably going to play a few games, which is great," Jolly said.

"Huddo brings great experience to our group. Obviously he's played at three different clubs now and the way he goes about training and playing, his attitude towards things is fantastic.

"I'm not going to play every game and I don't think every player will play every game so there's opportunities there for him," he said.

Meanwhile, Jolly said star midfielder Dale Thomas was in doubt for the first round against North Melbourne on Sunday week but backman Ben Reid should play.

"I think maybe Reidy might be ready to go but I'm dubious about Daisy (Thomas)," he said.

"He's confident he'll be ready for Round 1 and he's back training but I think he has to prove to the coaches that he can really get up and go and be tackled."

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

Thomas has been involved in controversy recently after saying he might not stay at Collingwood if he gets a more attractive offer under the free agency rules.

"Internally, we don't really worry about it," Jolly said.

"Daisy, to his credit, is coming off an injury so he wants to prove to the club that he wants a good contract and he will start to play some good footy before he starts talking about it.

"None of the guys have a problem with it at all - we know where he stands."

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Cooney's knee dogs him again

Bulldogs star Adam Cooney could miss Round 1 with a setback to his troublesome knee. Picture: Norm Oorloff Source: Herald Sun

WESTERN Bulldogs star Adam Cooney is in doubt for next week's season-opener after suffering a setback with his troublesome knee.

The Brownlow Medallist was forced to enter hospital yesterday to receive treatment for an infection to his right knee.

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Cooney, who travelled to Germany late last year for revolutionary treatment on the knee, has been the stand-out of the Dogs pre-season and again played well in Friday night's final practice match against Richmond.

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 He will remain on antibiotics for the rest of the week but the Dogs are confident the 27-year-old will be back at training next week which at least gives him a chance of lining up against Brisbane .

"We see this as a minor set-back for Adam and we're looking forward to having him back at training next week," General Manager of Football, James Fantasia said.

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Daisy to play VFL

Dale Thomas joins a training drill at Gosch's Paddock. Source: Getty Images

DALE Thomas could make a last-ditch bid for Round 1 selection if he returns in the VFL tomorrow night.

The AFL today released its list of players who have been given permission to play this weekend because of limited playing time during the pre-season.

The Magpies star has not played any NAB Cup matches after having ankle surgery before Christmas, but has sought permission to play VFL tomorrow.

He hasn't been named in the preliminary VFL squad, but remains a chance to line up in the second-tier scratch match.

Tyson Goldsack, who also had ankle surgery, will also play for the Magpies' VFL team in a practice match against the Northern Blues at Princes Park, starting at 5pm.

The Blues team will include Heath Scotland, Ed Curnow, Robert Warnock and top draft pick Troy Menzel.

Jack Viney, Dylan Grimes and Shaun Higgins are among the other players who will push for Round 1 selection in the VFL.

Viney hasn't played since suffering a neck injury on the first weekend of NAB Cup matches, while Grimes is recovering from hamstring surgery.

St Kilda's Rhys Stanley and Bulldog Jake Stringer have been named after suffering injuries early in the NAB Cup.

Port Adelaide forward Robbie Gray will play in the SANFL after making a successful return last weekend from a horrific knee injury he suffered in Round 3 last season.

PERMISSION TO TRAIN LIST

Brisbane Lions – nil.

Carlton – Tom Bell, Ed Curnow, Troy Menzel, Heath Scotland, Tom Temay, Robert Warnock.

Collingwood – Nathan Brown, Tyson Goldsack, Ben Kennedy, Jackson Paine, Dale Thomas, Marley Williams, Clinton Young.

Geelong – nil.

Gold Coast Suns – nil.

GWS Giants – nil.

Hawthorn – nil.

Melbourne – Dom Barry, Sam Blease, Mitch Clark, Mitchell Clisby, Jack Fitzpatrick, Dean Kent, Tom McDonald, Jordie McKenzie, Nathan Stark, James Strauss, Rory Taggert, Jack Trengove, Josh Tynan, Jack Viney.

North Melbourne – nil.

Port Adelaide – Brett Ebert, Domenic Cassisi, Cameron Hitchcock, Tom Logan, Robbie Gray, Ben Newton, Jack Hombsch, Brent Renouf, John Butcher, Mason Shaw.

Richmond – Matt Arnot, Tom Derickx, Brad Helbig, Dylan Grimes, Chris Knights, Jake King.

St Kilda – Jay Lever, Brodie Murdoch, Lewis Pierce, Josh Saunders, Adam Schneider, Tom Simpkin, Rhys Stanley, Jimmy Webster, Spencer White.

Sydney Swans – Craig Bird, Alex Brown, Harry Cunningham, Matthew Dick, Jed Lamb, Jordan Lockyer, Harrison Marsh, Martin Mattner, Tim Membrey, Mitch Morton, Shane Mumford, Nick Smith, Dean Towers, Tommy Walsh.

Western Bulldogs - Dylan Addison, Shaun Higgins, Nathan Hrovat, Will Minson, Fletcher Roberts, Jake Stringer.
 

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Bombers focus on footy, not drugs

Essendon chief executive Ian Robson (left) says his club is focused solely on footy. Source: Getty Images

ESSENDON chief executive Ian Robson is hopeful his club has dodged an Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority "sledgehammer", but says the drugs investigation still has months to travel.

The Dons start their season against Adelaide tomorrow, with Robson saying of the players: "The time now comes for their football to do the talking."

The AFL-ASADA investigation into potential drug use and Essendon's internal review continue, with the Bombers still adamant players did not take illegal substances.

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While the Bombers clearly had issues with governance and the duty of care to their players, Robson indicated there was not yet any evidence to suggest the taking of non-WADA compliant substances.

"We are at week seven and (AFL chief executive) Andrew (Demetriou) said on Friday that after six weeks you would have thought that if there was anything by way of another sledgehammer, you would have thought it would have been uncovered by now," he said.

"I can't say anything with certainty other than what is clear is the determination of the footy club to work with ASADA and the AFL. This is a serious issue for us and the competition. We want to be clear what has happened.

"We have put our entire organisation at their disposal and that means a whole raft of interviews and those processes will continue, probably for months."

Bombers, Hird seek closure

Corporate governance experts have stated the buck stops with an organisation's chief executive, which puts Robson firmly in the gun.

He said yesterday on SEN Radio he had relied on family support during the recent tough times, which have included calls for him to resign.

"Resilience in this caper means you don't get carried away when journos say you are doing a good job, and it means you don't get suicidal when the reverse applies," Robson said.

"Like anything in life, you rely and focus on the people important to you, and it starts with your family and your second family at the football club."

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Kelly to crunch deals for skippers

Craig Kelly will sort out Trent Cotchin and Jobe Watson's next contract. Klein Michael Source: Herald Sun

ELITE Sports Properties boss Craig Kelly will get back into the ring as a player manager to negotiate the contracts of star captains Trent Cotchin and Jobe Watson.

Their manager, Dan Richardson, has left to become Richmond's general manager of football, only months after the pair joined the firm from rival stables.

Kelly is one of the founding fathers of AFL player management. In recent years, he has not been accredited with the AFL Players Association as his fleet of player managers took over.

But the 1990 Collingwood premiership player will negotiate their contracts alongside ESP's Justin Reid, son of former Adelaide football manager John Reid.

Watson is an unrestricted free agent and the 2012 Brownlow medallist who, at 28, has one big long-term contract left in him.

Cotchin, equal second in last year's Brownlow, is just 22 but, given he is in his sixth season, a long-term deal would take him past restricted free agency.

Both players won their club best-and-fairests last year. But Kelly said there was no rush to sign deals.

"The boys are focused on the next couple of weeks of footy and, once everything settles down with the Richmond Football Club, I would imagine we would be dealing with Dan and (Richmond CEO) Benny Gale about (Trent's deal)," he said.

"We will sit down with Essendon at an appropriate time, too."

Kelly will need to pass an AFLPA entrance exam before he can renew his accreditation.

Cotchin said last week he was committed to signing a deal at Richmond but was unsure if it would be a five-year contract like Brett Deledio's deal last season.

"It will be a matter of time until we work out who will negotiate on my behalf and who will be on the other side," he said.

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I thought Clarke's season was over: Lyon

ALL TO PLAY FOR: The two coaches pose with the derby trophy. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

CALM BEFORE THE STORM: Fremantle Dockers coach Ross Lyon and West Coast Eagles coach John Worsfold front the media ahead of the Western Derby. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

FREMANTLE coach Ross Lyon says Zac Clarke is a "good chance" to play in Saturday's Western Derby despite yesterday fearing the young ruckman would miss the rest of the season after hurting himself at training.

Clarke snapped his plantaris tendon, which is attached to the Achilles tendon but is not vital to leg function.

"I was really worried at training. It looked like he had done an Achilles or a big calf, so we weren't sure," Lyon said.

"The results have come through and it's just the plantaris - that you don't really need - torn through.

"We were really relieved. We thought we'd lost the player for the year and he's still a good chance to play this week."

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Kepler Bradley is the leading contender to play Clarke's forward/back-up ruckman role if the youngster is ruled out.

Fremantle is likely to be conservative with Clarke given it has a 14-day break before its Round 2 clash with the Western Bulldogs.

While the Dockers are breathing a sigh of relief over Clarke, No.1 ruckman Aaron Sandilands continues to be a cause for concern after aggravating his hamstring injury.

Sandilands faces missing a big chunk of the season as his 211cm body continues to struggle. The 30-year-old will travel to Melbourne to see a specialist may need surgery and a long period of rehabilitation.

"He's had a hiccup in his rehabilitation with his hamstring, we're not sure to what extent, but we need further investigations with the specialist," Lyon said.

"I wouldn't read too much into it. He needs to see the specialist."

Lyon and West Coast coach John Worsfold came head-to-head today for the pre-derby press conference, which in a break with tradition was held at the WA Maritime Museum in Fremantle ahead of the Dockers' home game.

The pair spoke beneath Australia II, the racing yacht that famously won the America's Cup in 1983.

Worsfold was confident the Eagles could cover for the loss of Nic Naitanui (groin), Daniel Kerr (knee), Sharrod Wellingham (ankle) and Matt Rosa (thigh).

"Those names are all obviously part of our midfield, but we haven't had them for the whole pre-season really," he said.

"So the guys that are in there have done all the work and are looking forward to that challenge."

Worsfold said he would consider playing veteran Andrew Embley as a substitute but that he was confident the 2006 Norm Smith medallist could get through four quarters if required.

Both coaches welcomed the AFL's announcement of a concussion sub, with the substitute to now be allowed to come onto the field while a player is being assessed for concussion.

Bookmakers have continued to wind in Fremantle's price in the days leading up to the derby, with tab.com.au listing the Dockers at $2.15 - in from $2.35.

The betting agency has eased West Coast from $1.60 to $1.70.
 

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Gazza the punters' SuperCoach pick

Gold Coast captain Gary Ablett is the pick of the SuperCoach punters. Picture: Getty Source: Herald Sun

HE MAY have competition for Brownlow Medal favouritism, but Gary Ablett is the only player punters want in SuperCoach betting.

The Gold Coast superstar has received 80 per cent of all bets in Sportsbet's recently established "Highest Individual Score'' market.

To win, a player simply has to record the highest individual game score for the season.

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After opening at $8, Ablett has been crunched in to $5.50 and is a clear favourite ahead of Hawthorn's Lance Franklin ($8) and Collingwood's Dane Swan ($11).

Ablett also leads two of Sportsbet's total points markets, one of which is an ``Elite 18'' category where the best SuperCoach player in each team has been pitted against each other in a battle for overall supremacy.

"Picking your SuperCoach team can be tricky, but our betting market suggests the same old rule applies - you must have Gary Ablett,'' sportsbet.com.au's Shaun Anderson said.

NAB Cup SuperCoach scores here

"Punters are tipping him to dominate SuperCoach yet again.''

Anderson said Port Adelaide's Ollie Wines was also proving to be a popular pick in the "Most Supercoach Points Rookies'' market.

A $7 second favourite behind Melbourne's Jack Viney, Wines has been heavily backed to be the highest scorer of first-year players in 2013.

SPORTSBET'S SUPERCOACH ODDS

For full markets see sportsbet.com.au

Elite 18 - Most Supercoach points for the year

Gary Ablett (GC) $4

Scott Pendlebury (Coll) $7

Patrick Dangerfield (Adel) $9

Dayne Beams (Coll) $9

Dane Swan (Coll) $9

Trent Cotchin (Rich) $9

Jobe Watson (Ess) $13

Josh Kennedy (Syd) $15

Brett Deledio (Rich) $15

Marc Murphy (Carl) $17

Andrew Swallow (N.M) $17

Kieran Jack (Syd) $21

Matthew Boyd (W.B) $21

Scott Thompson (Adel) $21

Lance Franklin (Haw) $21

Joel Selwood (Geel) $21

Sam Mitchell (Haw) $26

Dean Cox (WCE) $31

Highest Individual Score

Gary Ablett (GC) $5.50

Lance Franklin (Haw) $8

Dane Swan (Coll) $11

Patrick Dangerfield (Adel) $15

Chris Judd (Carl) $17

Dayne Beams (Coll) $21

Trent Cotchin (Rich) $21

Dean Cox (WCE) $21

Scott Pendlebury (Coll) $21

Marc Murphy (Carl) $21

Steve Johnson (Geel) $21

Nick Dal Santo (StK) $26

Brent Stanton (Ess) $26

Cyril Rioli (Haw) $26

Matthew Boyd (W.B) $26

Nat Fyfe (Frem) $26

Brendon Goddard (StK) $26

Nic Naitanui (WCE) $26

Sam Mitchell (Haw) $26

Scott Thompson (Adel) $26
 

Most Supercoach Points Rookies

Jack Viney (Melb) $3.50

Jimmy Toumpas (Melb) $7

Oliver Wines (P.A) $7

Jake Stringer (W.B) $9

Lachie Whitfield (GWS) $9

Jonathan O'Rourke (GWS) $9

Jackson Macrae (W.B) $13

Nick Vlastuin (Rich) $13

Jesse Lonergan (GC) $17

Sam Mayes (B.L) $26

Sam Siggins (Adel) $26

Joe Daniher (Ess) $34

Troy Menzel (Carl) $34

Josh Simpson (Frem) $34

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Freo's Clarke limps off training track

HURTING: Fremantle is sweating on the fitness of Zac Clarke (left) for Saturday's derby. Source: Getty Images

ON STANDBY: Rookie Jack Hannath could be called up for a derby debut. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

FREMANTLE recruit Jack Hannath is in line to make his AFL debut in Saturday's derby against West Coast after back-up ruckman Zac Clarke injured his leg at training.

Clarke limped off the training track on Tuesday, but skipper Matthew Pavlich said he was unsure of the exact nature of the injury or how serious it was.

If Clarke is ruled out, it's likely either Hannath or Kepler Bradley will earn selection against the Eagles.

With No.1 ruckman Aaron Sandilands (hamstring) already ruled out of the match, Jon Griffin will take the lead role against Eagles champion Dean Cox.

Clarke was set to play a larger role in attack this year in order to provide support for Pavlich, meaning his replacement could come down to who is the better forward out of Hannath and Bradley.

Hannath was training with the Melbourne Demons over summer when told he had been snared by Fremantle with pick No.8 in the pre-season draft.

The 21-year-old has developed significantly over the past two years while playing with Central Districts, and his 201cm, 102kg frame could sway selection in his favour.

Bradley booted just six goals in 12 games last year, and his waywardness in front of goal remains a concern.

Pavlich said it didn't matter who replaced Clarke - as long as they did their bit for the team.

"Whoever it is, we don't care about the name or the person," Pavlich said.

"If we get them to compete and play to our standards, the rest will take care of itself.

"It's certainly not ideal. We thought Zac competed really well against the Bulldogs (during the pre-season).

"But what we know is we have some great back-up.

"Kepler played most of the pre-season games. Jack Hannath has been around the mark and is one of the players we drafted for this exact reason.

"He's a big body and runs well."

West Coast also have a decision to make in the ruck department after Nic Naitanui failed in his bid to be fit for the season opener.

If the Eagles decide Cox needs back-up in the ruck, either Scott Lycett or Callum Sinclair will be called into the side.

West Coast will also be without midfielder Daniel Kerr (knee), forward Mark Nicoski (hamstring), wingman Matt Rosa (quad) and former Magpie Sharrod Wellingham (ankle).
 

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Hodge expects Buddy big pay cut

Hawthorn captain Luke Hodge, pictured here alongside the other 17 AFL skippers, expects a pay cut as the Hawks move to keep Lance Franklin. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN captain Luke Hodge expects a pay cut as the AFL club tries to keep Lance Franklin.

While Franklin's decision to defer contract talks until post-season is the big-ticket item, Hodge and former skipper Sam Mitchell are among other premiership stars the Hawks must re-sign.

Hodge, 28, who played just 10 games last year because of injury, said he and 30-year-old Mitchell were at the stage of their careers where ``we don't have quite as much pull as Franky does''.

"As you get older it's proven in the past that you're going to have to go lower so that the younger blokes coming through can get paid probably a little bit more than what they deserve,'' Hodge said.

But the Hawks won't break the bank on Franklin either.

"The club have thrown Buddy the best offer we can give with the blokes that we've got on our list,'' he said.

"It's up for Bud to take his time this year, have a good think about it and see where his future wants to be.''

Hodge was in no hurry to re-sign and said his deal didn't need to be a priority as there was no doubt he'd stay a Hawk.

He was confident he could recapture career-best form this season despite coming off knee surgery and last year's illness and injury troubles.

"If your expectations drop then you probably shouldn't be playing,'' Hodge said.

He said the knee was fully healed but doubt remained over whether he'll face Geelong on Easter Monday.

The Hawks are out to break a nine-match losing streak against the Cats since their 2008 grand final win.

While Hodge would love to be out there, he has learnt the hard way that rushing back is not smart.

"I made the mistake last year of coming back probably a little bit early with my calf and hurt that just before round one,'' he said.

"We deliberately haven't set a date that I'm going to be back.

"We'll just take it as it comes.''

The Hawks also hope Cyril Rioli (ankle) and recruit Brian Lake (calf) can face the Cats.

Lake's return would be particularly useful.

The club recruited him to combat power forwards such as Geelong's Tom Hawkins, who kicked six goals including the winner after the siren in their most recent meeting.

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Riewoldt relies on blood jabs

2013 preview: Fox Footy expert Brad Johnson says the Saints need to find the next group of stars to take the baton from Nick Riewoldt and Co.

St Kilda captain Nick Riewoldt catches his breath. Source: Getty Images

ST KILDA captain Nick Riewoldt continues to be injected with his own blood to help prolong his career.

Riewoldt will rely on a German medical technique to nurse a degenerative left knee injury through the AFL season.

"Yeah, it's something I've got to manage and I think ultimately it will be the thing that probably forces me to retire. But certainly I've got a few years left yet,'' he said today.

"It has been ongoing for a while now. I managed it pretty well last year. I was able to put in a pretty solid year until I got injured (missed the last three rounds) with a totally unrelated injury.''

Riewoldt has the Orthokine therapy at the Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. The treatment remove proteins from the blood that inhibit inflammation and are injected to the affected joint.

"They take your blood and - am I allowed to say inject? - and I've had some pretty good success from that,'' Riewoldt said.

"If I start to get sore and swollen, it's something I can go to. So, we have that up our sleeve.

"It's a concentrated burst. You have six weeks go of it and that lasts for six months.

"They spin the blood and take out the concentrated anti-inflammatory part of your blood and then inject it back.''

American basketballer Kobe Bryant and baseball slugger Alex Rodriguez are among other sportsmen to use the technique.

Riewoldt said the treatment allows him to continue to train during the season and play a match at full capacity.

On the long-term prognosis for the knee, the Saints skipper said: "If I want to go and run marathons, it's probably going to be an issue. But if I want to walk 18 holes at golf, I should be fine.''

The skipper also shed light on the Saints selection dilemma bolstering their short-handed backline.

Sean Dempster (hamstring) looks set to miss Round 1 with former Docker Dylan Roberton the likely replacement.

Rhys Stanley would also be considered in a more defensive role but he too is sidelined with a knee injury.

Riewoldt said he was happy with the club's attacking options with Beau Maister, Terry Milera, Ahmed Saad and Trent Dennis-Lane enjoying solid pre-season campaigns.

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Hill looking forward to LeCras return

WELCOME BACK: Eagle Mark LeCras will play his first AFL game since 2011 this weekend. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: The Sunday Times

WEST Coast goalsneak Josh Hill says he feels more comfortable at the Eagles now, and is looking forward to combining with Mark LeCras this year to create a series of highlights.

Hill booted 36 goals in 22 games for the Eagles last year, cementing his spot in the side after fellow small forwards LeCras (knee) and Mark Nicoski (hamstring) suffered season-ending injuries.

With Nicoski still on the long-term injury list, Hill is expected to retain his place in the best 22 this year, and says he can't wait to team with LeCras in what's shaping up as a formidable forward line.

While Hill and LeCras will do the damage at ground level, spearheads Josh Kennedy and Jack Darling are set to dominate in the air, with ruckmen Nic Naitanui and Dean Cox also providing valuable marking power.

LeCras is one of the classiest medium-sized forwards in the game, and has the ability to kick freak goals in open play from the tightest of angles.

The 26-year-old is equally adept at taking strong marks on the lead, and earned All-Australian honours in 2010 for a campaign that yielded him 63 goals.

Hill played 66 games over five seasons for the Western Bulldogs before being traded to West Coast at the end of 2011.

The 24-year-old enjoyed a solid debut season at the Eagles, and said the return of LeCras would give opposition sides an even bigger headache.

"I know he's got his flair that he brings. I'm going to try to bring my side and work on improving," Hill said ahead of Saturday's western derby against Fremantle.

"Like last year, I'm going to start off with my defensive side of my game and look to use that to get involved.

"I feel a lot more comfortable now that I've got a year under my belt at the club.''

When asked who had the more flair out of him and LeCras, Hill replied: "He'll probably say him, but I might say me.

"But when you've got Nic Nat there jumping around on shoulders, it's hard to get a touch.

"When the ball's there, we'll all be fighting for it. We're all pretty excited to see what each of us can bring."

The Eagles are warm favourites to beat the Dockers despite missing Naitanui (groin), Daniel Kerr (knee), Matt Rosa (quad), Sharrod Wellingham (ankle) and Nicoski.
 

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Demetriou cashes in on bonuses

Vote now on whether Andrew Demetriou deserves his mega pay packet. Picture: Michael Dodge Source: Getty Images

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou received $440,000 worth of bonuses last year, the league's annual report reveals.

The game's most powerful man earned $1.88m in 2012, a package which included superannuation, bonuses and an $88,000 pay rise.

He pocketed $2.2 million in 2010.

The annual report also revealed a record revenue for the 2012 season of $425m and a $6.7m profit.

About $290m was distributed among the 18 AFL clubs.

The turnaround in fortunes comes after the league leaked $24m in 2011 – most of it spent on setting up expansion clubs Greater Western Sydney and Gold Coast.

The AFL Grand Final was the most-watched sporting event in Australia last year with an average audience of 4.08 million people.

While total attendances fell from 7.48m people in 2011 to 7.37m last year, memberships soared for the 12th consecutive year with 707,621 people (up from 650,373) signing up with clubs.

AFL Commission chairman Mike Fitzpatrick attributed a fall in attendances to the league's expansion in western Sydney and Gold Coast.

The league's executive arm, made up of eight members, earned $4.5m in salaries and bonuses.

Fitzpatrick said attendances had dropped due to the AFL palying more matches at smaller, boutique stadiums.

"Although attendances at AFL matches were down in 2012 when compared to the record levels of 2011, that outcome was consistent with our expectations linked to the fact that expansion clubs Gold Coast Suns and the GWS Giants were participating in 20 per cent of the total number of games," he said.

"That principle is why we were pleased to support an initiative of the St Kilda FC to play an historic first premiership season game outside Australia in 2013 when the Club takes on reigning premiers the Sydney Swans in Wellington, New Zealand on Anzac Day."

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Wrist injury for Butcher

Port Adelaide key forward John Butcher has a wrist injury. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: The Advertiser

PORT Adelaide's injury-plagued forward John Butcher has had another setback, with scans expected to confirm he has suffered a small crack in a wrist.

Butcher - who missed much of the Power's pre-season campaign as he recovered from hip surgery - was injured during the second half of Port's five-goal trial match win against premier Sydney at AAMI Stadium on Saturday.

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It was initially thought Butcher had sustained a hand injury.

The club now believes he has suffered a small fracture at the top of the wrist and is awaiting the results of scans later today.

The Power insists the injury isn't serious and that Butcher could still be an outside chance to be available for selection for the round one clash against Melbourne at the MCG on March 31.

However this seems highly unlikely.

Even if Butcher's wrist injury is minor, he has not had enough football to justify being picked in Port's best 22.
Saturday's match against the Swans was his first AFL hitout for the season and he was scratchy in his only SANFL trial for the Port Magpies the previous week.

The highly-rated Butcher has played just 12 games in three seasons since being drafted at pick eight at the 2009 national draft because of a long line of back, hip and soft tissue injuries.

The Power expects former captain Dom Cassisi (calf) and forward Brett Ebert (hamstring) to resume from injury in SANFL trial matches this week.

Robbie Gray, who last weekend played a half with West Adelaide in his return from a knee reconstruction, is expected to play three quarters in the SANFL this week.

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Traditional surgery for Johnson

Sydney defender Alex Johnson will have traditional surgery. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

SYDNEY premiership player Alex Johnson is set to miss the entire season after opting for traditional surgery - and not revolutionary LARS - to repair his torn ACL.

Johnson tragically ruptured the ACL in his left knee during Sydney's NAB Cup clash against Gold Coast last week.

The young defender ventured back to Melbourne last week to think the decision over with his family, before decided for the traditional rehabilitation.

LARS surgery could have had Johnson back playing within two months, but clubs are fearful as to whether the artificial fix can stand the test of time.

Johnson, 21, will go under the knife next week.

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Winged Eagles not worried

Eagles ruckman Nic Naitanui will miss the start of the season. Picture: Justin Benson-cooper. Source: PerthNow

WEST Coast skipper Darren Glass is confident his team has the depth to cover for a host of injuries in Saturday's Round 1 showdown against Fremantle.

The Eagles will be without ruckman Nic Naitanui (groin), midfielder Daniel Kerr (knee), former Pie Sharrod Wellingham (ankle), forward Mark Nicoski (hamstring) and wingman Matt Rosa (thigh) this week.

In contrast, Fremantle will be close to full strength, with Aaron Sandilands (hamstring) being the only notable omission.

West Coast enters the season as one of the premiership favourites, and Glass said the club had plenty of options to replace the injured players this week.

"It's very rarely you're at full strength week in, week out. I'm very comfortable with our depth," Glass said.

Nicoski missed all of last year after undergoing hamstring surgery, and has again been placed on the long-term injury list after a slower-than-expected recovery.

Glass remains hopeful the 29-year-old can overcome his injury troubles in time to play a key role this year.

"He's had a terrible run of luck, but he remains positive and still a good opportunity to play lots of good footy this year," Glass said.

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Tigers primed for Round 1

Richmond star Brett Deledio in full flight against the Western Bulldogs at Visy Park. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

RICHMOND coach Damien Hardwick came away from yesterday's nine-point win over the Western Bulldogs confident his team was in great shape for its Round 1 showdown against Carlton.

The Tigers have dropped only one game in the pre-season and have almost a full list to chose from for the season opener on Thursday week.

Against the Dogs they came from 18 points down in the third quarter to kick seven of the last nine goals in scrappy conditions at Visy Park, and did so with subdued performances from key players Trent Cotchin (18 disposals), Jack Riewoldt (one goal and six disposals), Dustin Martin and Chris Newman (10 possessions each).

''It was a tough old game really, and the conditions weren't really great, but to walk away at the end of the NAB Cup campaign with four wins and one loss was a reasonable result for us,'' Hardwick said.

Jake King and Daniel Jackson, who were rested yesterday, are both expected to be available for the Round 1 match against the Blues.

Chris Knights and Dylan Grimes, who have had injury-interrupted pre-seasons, are expected to get at least a half in Coburg's VFL match against Weribee on Sunday.

Nathan Foley remains at least a month away from playing.

The Tigers had six multiple goalkickers, led by ruckman Ivan Maric, with Luke McGuane (two goals) presenting as a third marking forward.

''He was good, kicked a couple of goals,'' Hardwick said. ''He does compete, Luke, that's the one thing we love about him.''

The Bulldogs were disappointed they could not finish off the march, but would be encouraged by knowing about a half a dozen new faces could come into the team that finished the 2012 season, with Brett Goodes, Jason Johannisen, Nick Lower and Tom Young among those with strong cases for inclusion.

Lower did exceptionally well nullifying Cotchin, restricting him to just six disposals in the first half and frustrating the Tigers skipper throughout.

Assistant coach Brett Montgomery was buoyed that experienced core played well, but several recruits had played well.

''At the selection table ... we've got plenty to choose from and there were at least 12 or 13 weeks last year where that wasn't the case and we were just putting whatever we had out there,'' Montgomery said.

Adam Cooney (24 touches) showed glimpses of the explosive best that was a feature of his glory days, Robert Murphy was damaging alternating between half forward and half back and Daniel Giansiracusa (two goals) was a constant threat.

Ryan Griffen collected 30 possessions and Dale Morris totally outplayed Riewoldt.

Montgomery said the club was hopeful Shaun Higgins, Easton Wood and possibly Tom Williams would be available for the Round 1 match against Brisbane Lions at Etihad Stadium, although the Dogs were conscious of not including several underdone players in the 22.

Higgins and Wood are likely to play at VFL level next weekend.

Hardwick also backed the AFL's new sliding rules after the match.

''Overall I think the rule is great, I really like it. 54 free kicks today is a lot of free kicks. It's really hard for the umpires to administer. Is it forceful contact or is it (just) contact .... wet conditions is tough. I think the overriding concept is good.

''There's a couple though on a wet day where a guy slides to get the ball and a player falls over the top. They're probably the ones where we have to wait and see (how the rule is interpreted).''

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Gray happy to be back

Robbie Gray at Port Adelaide training. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: The Advertiser

PORT Adelaide specialist forward Robbie Gray will step up his workloads after a successful return from serious knee surgery to competitive football on Saturday night.

Power assistant coach Garry Hocking today described Gray as a "kid in a lolly shop'' in his chase for the ball during half a game with SANFL club West Adelaide in a night trial at Richmond Oval.

He added the recuperation program would now have Gray play three quarters in SANFL trials with roles in the midfield.
 
Independent observers noted Gray has lost none of his pace despite his legs having naturally lost their tone.
 
Gray yesterday Tweeted: "Got through and pulled up well. Good to be back playing again!''

Gray was injured in April in Port's away clash with Collingwood. At best, he could resume in the AFL on April 6 at home against Greater Western Sydney.

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Thomas in no hurry to sign

Collingwood midfielder Dale Thomas says he is in no hurry to re-sign. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD midfielder Dale Thomas says there is no point rushing to sign a new contract after ankle surgery and a modest 2012.

Thomas said he wanted the chance to build on his form before he started contract talks.

"There is no point in me signing currently coming off the year that I had last year and just coming back with an injury,'' Thomas said on Channel 7's Game Day.

"I would like to think I would give myself a bit of time to get some form up, play some good footy and then start talking contracts.

Injuries: Reid, Thomas a chance, not Faz and Krak

"But at the minute I am sure the club would like to get my signature at the minute because it would be worth next to nothing.''

Thomas said he had not set a time-frame for his contract negotiations, but was mindful of protracted talks turning into a "circus''.

"I think I will just let it unfold. I don't want to a put a time on it and say I will wait until the end of the year,'' Thomas said.

"But the last thing I want is for it to become a circus as these things over the past few years for other players have kind of happened.

"The last I want is for that to happen. My signature will go on a piece of paper at some point, as it has to happen.''

Thomas, who had surgery in November, said he remained hopeful of being ready to play in the Round 1 clash against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium.

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Leuenberger unscathed in return

Lions ruckman Matthew Leuenberger got through half a game with Brisbane's reserves side. Picture: Adam Armstrong Source: The Courier-Mail

BRISBANE had further cause for celebration over the weekend with ruckman Matthew Leuenberger playing half a match in the reserves.

Leuenberger's start to the season was under a cloud after he suffered back stiffness and calf soreness following the game against GWS in Wagga Wagga two weeks ago.

He did not play against Collingwood the following weekend and was not considered for the NAB Cup  final, putting his availability for round 1 in doubt.

But the back ailment has cleared and he emerged from the practice match unscathed.

Leuenberger, who suffered a series achilles injury in 2012 to miss all but three games, will resume full training this week.

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