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Crows defend Johncock omission

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 20 April 2013 | 14.57

Adelaide Crows veteran Graham Johncock at training. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: The Advertiser

ADELAIDE has defended the dumping of crowd favourite Graham Johncock as the club seeks to restructure the misfiring forward line with more marking power.

Johncock has been replaced in the side by Tom Lynch, a former Saint who stands at 190cm and gives the midfield a tall alternative target to Taylor Walker.

The decision -- which received a hostile response from supporters -- was as much about finding a player who is in form as it was finding a better balance in attack.

"It's a slight structural change,'' Bickley. ``He plays differently than perhaps Graham, who's a bit of a smaller, crumbing-type forward.

"Lynchy has got an enormous engine and he works really hard in terms of his work rate up around the ground.

"He's a marking forward so (it's) just a slight structural change but one we think is appropriate for this week.


"We're about picking a side that's capable of winning and certainly there have been some guys who aren't in great form.

"Some of them have paid the penalty and others have been lucky (not to be dropped). But at the same time, if things aren't working, you're always looking at ways of doing it better.

"The guys who have come in, one thing they all have in common is that they've been in good form in the SANFL.

"The reality is that it's more about their form and the way they go about their business. They've got really good training form and really goo playing form.''


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SuperCoach studs and duds

Geelong captain Joel Selwood bursts out of the middle to drive the Cats forward. Picture: Philip Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

WHO were the Nissan SuperCoach stars this week and who stunk it up on the big stage?

SYDNEY 103 lost to Geelong 124

Swans studs: Kieren Jack (130) was the pick of the Swans dominating the clearances and inside-50s. The son of an NRL gun amassed 29 disposals including 10 inside-50s and eight clearances to go with three score assists. Nick Malceski (123) pulled one out of the box picking up 28 touches including 11 rebound 50s.

Swans duds: Lewis Jetta (30) shocking run continued against the Cats. The excitement machine could only manage seven disposals. To make matters worse he gave away three free kicks. Luke Parker (43) crashed back down to earth while Shane Mumford (68) won the ruck duel with 30 hit outs.

Cats studs: Joel Selwood (163) take a bow. 31 disposals, 10 tackles and eight clearances in standout best afield performance. Harry Taylor (125) enjoyed his foray forward while George Horlin-Smith (105) and Mathew Stokes (103) provided plenty of grunt around the stoppages.


Cats duds: Billie Smedts (38) was substituted out of the match while Jimmy Bartel (70) could only muster 17 disposals.

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Hawks pound Dockers in Tassie

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

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

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

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

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


Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats and more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AAP rhv/ajw/rf


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Pies rise to expose Tigers

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

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

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

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

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


Live HQ: SuperCoach stats, scores and more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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Pav buts brakes on Lake debut

Written By Unknown on Jumat, 19 April 2013 | 14.57

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

Former Bulldog Brian Lake trains with the Hawks. Source: Getty Images

PRIZED recruit Brian Lake's debut with his new club Hawthorn has been delayed by the injury to Fremantle skipper Matthew Pavlich.

The former Bulldogs defender was on the radar of Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson to make his first appearance for the club in Launceston tomorrow.

But Clarkson said the Achilles injury to Pavlich, who has been ruled out for up to six weeks, meant Lake didn't fit into their structure.

Lake has played the last two games with Hawthorn's VFL affiliate Box Hill.

"With Pavlich going out of their side and them not replacing him with a tall type of forward, they're probably going to go with a different type of structure so it's a little bit to do with the structure of the side," said Clarkson.

"He's played two games and another game at VFL level won't hurt him.

"We recruited him for a specific reason so he's going to come into our side pretty soon."

The Hawks, who are coming off a 55-point win over Collingwood, have veteran midfielder Michael Osborne as a handy replacement for their injured Rising Star nominee Jed Anderson.

The 19-year-old won the nomination for his performance against the Magpies before scans early in the week revealed a hamstring injury that's set to sideline him for a few weeks.

Clarkson said while he felt for Anderson, it was good to have the experienced Osborne back on deck.

"Ossie's spent nearly 12 months out of the game now," he said.

"He's had a really good rehab and trained really well over the summer, just needed to get some match fitness in the first couple of games of the season.

"He's done that and he's ready to come into our side, so that's great."

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

The match pits the game's best attacking team against Fremantle, who are renowned for their unrelenting defensive pressure and who will be desperate to atone for their late fade-out against Essendon.

"It will be a great contest, both sides are playing good footy," Clarkson said.

"They've got a really disciplined group of players and we'd like to think we're in a similar vein as well."


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AFL to grill Dees over Dank link

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Demons' full statement: we are clean

Timeline: Melbourne's two years from hell

Sports scientist Stephen Dank.

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

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

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

"There appears to be some inconsistencies.

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

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

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

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

Texts trip up Demons

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

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

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

Demetriou backs silent James Hird

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

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

Neeld: We're level with GWS

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

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

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

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

AFL Round 4 teams: Watts back for Dees

SOME OF THE ALLEGED TEXT MESSAGES

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

Bates to Dank: "Great."

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

Bates to Dank: "Tomorrow"

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

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

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

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


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Ablett, Pies will play through pain

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

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

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

WHISPERS

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

SUPERCOACH ALERT

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

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

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

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

MONEY MATTERS

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

Round 4 bet:

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

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

ON NOTICE

Jarryd Roughead

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

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


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Swan misses mate in 200th

Dane Swan tries to find a way past Dale Thomas at Collingwood training. Source: Herald Sun

DANE Swan is not one to get sentimental.

He says his 200 game milestone doesn't mean a lot to him and expects nothing more than "a handshake from most of the boys'' in recognition of his achievement at the MCG tomorrow.

He still doesn't like team meetings and isn't keen on the media scrutiny that comes with being a star of the game.

But he does love his mates, a couple of whom - teammate Ben Johnson retired defender Chris Tarrant - he credits with turning his career around.

So it is with a touch of disappointment, Swan said today, that he will run out on to the MCG to face Richmond without Johnson by his side after the veteran midfielder was ruled out with a calf injury.

"He's the bloke I warm up with every week and have trained with every week that I can remember,'' Swan said.


"So it's a little bit disappointing to not have him out there, but I have no doubt he'll help me celebrate when the time's right.''

In 2005 Swan was on the brink of exile with his unprofessional approach to training testing the patience of coaches and off-field issues testing the patience of administrators.

And while he admitted the negative publicity he has drawn over time hasn't made him totally change his ways - "I've kept making blues so obviously not, I keep getting put on the front of the paper'' - his on-field exploits have taken an unquestionable turn for the better.

Dane Swan has a laugh with good mate Ben Johnson at Collingwood recovery. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

And he said that is largely thanks to Johnson and Tarrant.

"Johnno has always been a great runner and a great trainer out on the track so in the pre-season (of 2005-06) he just said, 'Run with me for as long as you can'.

"I'd ... drop off pretty quickly, but just try and hold on to Ben for as long as possible.

"For those that know Ben he hasn't lifted a weight in his life, and Chris Tarrant clearly has lifted weights before so I just hopped in to the weights room with him. He made me do everything he did.

"So I can attribute a lot of my success towards those two because they wanted me to be around, they obviously liked me and thought I had something to offer ... they forced me to do things that I wasn't necessarily doing.''

The 29-year-old said he has no immediate plans to retire when his current contract expires at the end of next season.

"I can't look any further than that because so many things can happen, no one might want me and I might have no choice but to finish up,'' he said.

"But if I'm still going well, all things being equal I'd like to play on for a couple more years. Once I get to that age it's probably going to be only one-year deals, I'm not going to be silly like Trav (Cloke) and ask for a five-year deal.''


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Laird makes big jump from Crows rookie

Written By Unknown on Kamis, 18 April 2013 | 14.57

Rory Laird has been elevated off Adelaide's rookie list. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: The Advertiser

CROWS coach Brenton Sanderson has promoted rookie Rory Laird ahead of an expected cull at team selection.

And Sanderson has fired at the critics handing him advice on how to pick his 22 for Sunday's clash against the Western Bulldogs.

"We'll structure up the way we want to, not the way you want," Sanderson said. "We're very clear on how we want to play."

Don't leave it all to Dangerfield

Who gets to be in the Adelaide 22 after the nine-point loss to Port Adelaide in Showdown XXXIV will reflect how much patience Sanderson has lost with his players.

"We've only had three or four players who have had three solid games," he said. "There has been too much variance of output."


Adelaide will have to replace captain Nathan van Berlo who has bone bruising of his left knee. He is likely to have his spot taken by Sam Kerridge, an emergency in the team picked to play the Power last week.

Sanderson pre-empted a stern reaction at selection tonight saying: "We need some players who an play on edge for 120 minutes,'' said Sanderson. "We need consistency of performance.

"I'd rather play players we can trust to give us that intensity and that passion for a full game and not just fits and spurts.

"There has to be change. We've had two very poor games (against Essendon and Port) and one very good game (against Brisbane). The good sides don't just turn up every now and again; they turn up every week.

"We have to get consistency of performance every time we play. We're looking for players who can give us that week in, week out not just every now and then.''

Sanderson today took issue with the critics, including former captain and Brownlow Medallist Mark Ricciuto, who have declared the Crows may miss the finals.

"Some people have written us off already, which is fine," he said. "Don't be offended if we don't listen to you when you write us off. If anything it fuels our determination to perform better.

"We're not throwing the towel in yet. We're not giving in yet.

"It's not panic stations yet. We're one win, two losses. But we can't let it go too deep into the season before we start to make some adjustments to how we play.''
 


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Live: Round 4 AFL teams

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Live HQ: See the teams as they're revealed

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

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

ROUND 4 GAMES:

SYDNEY v GEELONG, 7.50pm Friday at the SCG

HAWTHORN v FREMANTLE, 1.45 pm Saturday at Aurora Stadium

RICHMOND v COLLIGNWOOD, 2.10pm Saturday at the MCG

ESSENDON v ST KILDA, 4.40pm Saturday at Etihad Stadium

WEST COAST v CARLTON, 7.40pm Saturday at Patersons Stadium

MELBOURNE v GWS, 1.10pm Sunday at the MCG

ADELAIDE v WESTERN BULLDOGS, 3.15pm Sunday at AAMI Stadium

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


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Demetriou backs silent James Hird

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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Pavlich sent under the knife

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

"Very disappointed about not only missing the flight with the @Fremantle_FC boys to Tassie, but also the next 4 or so weeks of footy," Pavlich wrote on Twitter this afternoon.

"Although flat, I'm pragmatic about the surgery & time off, given my durability and associated luck with injury in my career #chinupson."

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

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

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

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

"(Hannath) is a ruckman, played SANFL football, so he's 202cm and quite mobile. Tanner Smith is 196cm, a super athlete, a competitor, and has been playing at Peel forward and back."

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

The Dockers will be attempting to notch just their second win in the club's ninth outing at Aurora Stadium.

More to come

Follow Chris Robinson on Twitter: @CJKRobinson

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


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Eagles welcome back Mackenzie

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 17 April 2013 | 14.57

Eric Mackenzie is set to return for West Coast against Carlton. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

WEST Coast defender Eric Mackenzie is set to return for the Eagles against Carlton on Saturday night, but Matt Rosa's comeback will likely be through the WAFL.

Mackenzie has missed the past two matches with a hamstring injury, while Rosa is yet to play this season following a thigh injury in the NAB Cup.

Rosa will likely resume with East Perth, although he will be considered for the green vest role.

Mackenzie will come straight back into the side if he is declared fit after training today.

Mitch Brown is set to be forced out to make way for Mackenzie, while Bradd Dalziell is in line for a recall to replace Andrew Embley.

Embley (foot) and Beau Waters (calf) are the latest additions to the West Coast injury list.

Daniel Kerr pulled up well from his first game of the season against Melbourne.

Coach John Worsfold said the club was trying to determine the causes of its injury crisis.

"It's been pretty tough, but we certainly try not to look at it as though we're unlucky," he said.

"We try to look at it as, 'is there ways we can manage things better?' and we challenge ourselves to look at possible reasons why.

"So we'll deal with that again. We got a couple of players back on the weekend but we lost another two or three, including Brant Colledge through the WAFL.

"But we're focused on what we've got to work with and while we're doing that, we're trying to make sure that we're doing everything as well as possible to avoid some of these injuries."

Worsfold said he was wary of the Blues despite their winless start to the new season.

"They've played three really good sides and their form's been pretty solid without getting across the line," he said.

"So we're treating Carlton on what we know, which is they're playing pretty good footy, they're a good team and it's going to be a real challenge for us again this week."

The match will see Worsfold resume his coaching rivalry with his former premiership coach Mick Malthouse, who will coach Carlton against the Eagles for the first time.


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Goddard defection still raw

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But off the field the wounds are still raw.

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

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

"But for four years, we wanted only three. That means we would be paying him $750,000 at age 32.

"I don't think so. It would have been derelict of our board to have sewn him up for that fourth year."

Goddard angrily rejected the claims on The Footy Show.

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

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

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

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

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

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


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Boyd, pups in mix for Dogs

Leader of the pack: Matthew Boyd will captain the Western Bulldogs for a third year in 2013. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

THE Western Bulldogs expect skipper Matthew Boyd and possibly two AFL debutants to reinforce a beaten and injury-battered side for Sunday's AFL match against Adelaide.

Coach Brendan McCartney today predicted as many as five changes to a team that were thrashed by Richmond by 67 points on Sunday and lost three players to long-term injuries.

Half-forward Shaun Higgins has had his season ended by a fractured navicular in his left foot, while a ruptured ankle ligament has sidelined Tory Dickson for eight weeks.

Defender Easton Wood could miss a similar period as the Dogs try to work out a way to end his recurring hamstring injuries.

"It wasn't a great day all round," McCartney said.

The brighter news is Boyd will return from a calf injury, provided he trains as well as expected on Thursday, and forward Ayce Cordy should return from a back complaint.

And the Dogs' top two draftees, Jake Stringer and Jack Macrae, are in strong contention for AFL selection after impressing in the VFL.

"Two of our early picks played really well at Williamstown, so it puts them in the mix obviously, because we envisage four, maybe five changes," McCartney said.

The coach said Higgins had felt numb when he learnt his season was over, the latest in a line of injury and illness setbacks throughout the 25-year-old's career.

McCartney said Boyd's expected return would help the Bulldogs improve in areas they normally pride themselves on but struggled with against the Tigers - winning the contested ball and applying defensive pressure.

But he said there had to be a team-wide lift, although the positive was that the players hadn't had to be told where they let themselves down.

"The sign of improvement for us was they knew straightaway what happened out there," he said.

"The key is to be able to fix it up on the run."


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Giants, Dees under same pressure

GWS coach Kevin Sheedy. Source: Getty Images

THE bookmakers rate it Greater Western Sydney's best chance of a victory, but coach Kevin Sheedy insists his AFL side will have to be at their best to heap more misery on Melbourne.

GWS, three games into their second season, are yet to be burdened with the tag of favouritism.

But this week, as the Giants prepare to tackle the demoralised Demons on Sunday at the MCG, they came damn close.

Many bookmakers opened their market with GWS at $1.90, comfortably the shortest odds offered on a Giants victory.

It coincides with three meek losses, tallying 321 points, for Melbourne coach Mark Neeld.

"Obviously their first half last week was terrific,'' Sheedy said on Wednesday, reading from the same book of optimism as Neeld.

"But they've been under no more pressure than us. We're sitting there - one and two on the bottom of the AFL ladder.

"We won the wooden spoon last year, they didn't.''

The difference is Melbourne have been mired in mediocrity for years, whereas GWS boast a bright future and some of the best young talent in the league.

There is also the distinct possibility Neeld will be dismissed if his charges lose on the weekend, while the same can't be said of four-time premiership coach Sheedy.

''(It's not easy to win a game). Go and ask Carlton. Ask North Melbourne,'' Sheedy added.

''...It's probably a final for both clubs, we're trying to get into the top of the bottom four. We've got to be at our best.''

Sheedy forecast up to six changes, with some poor performers to be omitted alongside Dean Brogan and Devon Smith (both suspended) and Jonathon Patton, who sustained a season-ending knee injury last Saturday.

Irishman Setanta O'hAilpin, who sustained the same injury as Patton in round six last year, will headline the inclusions.

"He hasn't contributed too much since he's been at the club,'' Sheedy joked of the ex-Carlton utility who was handed a lifeline by GWS in the 2011 draft.

''...To be quite honest we don't know (what he'll contribute). He's played one hour. Been available for one hour. That's pathetic.''

O'hAilpin, standing next to Sheedy during Wednesday's press conference, took the 65-year-old's ribbing with a smile on his face.

But the junior hurling star took a more serious note when asked about the year on the sidelines.

"It was devastating,'' said the 30-year-old, who is set to play at full-forward after booting five goals in the reserves.

'...The injury's really put things into perspective. You've got to go out there as if every game is your last game.''
 


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The Barometer: Round 4

Written By Unknown on Selasa, 16 April 2013 | 14.57

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

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

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

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

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

ADELAIDE

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

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

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


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

BRISBANE

INJURIES
Simon Black (knee) 1 week
Brent Staker (foot) 1 week
Jesse O'Brien (adductor) 5 weeks
Stephen Wrigley (knee) season
Jared Polec (knee) TBA
Matt McGuire (leg) 4 weeks

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

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

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

CARLTON

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

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

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

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

COLLINGWOOD

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

ESSENDON

INJURIES
Michael Hurley (wrist) test

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

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

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

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

FREMANTLE

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

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

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

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

GALLERY: The best 40 pictures from Round 3

GEELONG

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

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

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

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

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

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

GOLD COAST

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

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

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

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

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

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

GWS

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

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

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

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

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

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

HAWTHORN

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

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

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

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

MELBOURNE

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

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

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

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

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

NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Liam Anthony (knee) test

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

ON THE CUSP: Liam Anthony has recovered well from knee soreness and will be thereabouts at selection. Ben Jacobs responded well to his omission last week putting in a strong performance for VFL-affiliate North Ballarat. Ayden Kennedy was named best for Werribee. Kangaroos Brad Scott revealed last night on Fox Footy's On the Couch that Majak Daw was close to making his long-awaited debut. Scott said it was only a matter of fitting in all the talls in the Kangaroos forward line.

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

PORT ADELAIDE

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

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

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

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

RICHMOND

INJURIES
Nathan Foley (Achilles) test

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

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

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

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

ST KILDA

INJURIES
Daniel Markworth (ACL) season
Sean Dempster (hand) 3 weeks
James Gwilt (knee) 2-4 weeks
Jackson Ferguson (knee) 3 weeks
Adam Schneider (hamstring) 3-5 weeks
Jack Newnes (broken jaw) 1-2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Don't expect many moves at selection this week after the Saints did what they'll do to bottom teams this year. New boys Tom Lee and Nathan Wright did enough for another run, with Wright particularly impressive against the Giants. There will be one forced change with Jack Newnes out with a broken jaw, suffered in a run-in with GWS big man Dean Brogan in the second quarter. Arryn Siposs could come back in after he was left out at the last minute on Saturday.

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

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

SYDNEY

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

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

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

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

WEST COAST

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

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

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

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

WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES
Tom Williams (foot) available
Ayce Cordy (soreness) test
Dylan Addison (hamstring) test
Matthew Boyd (calf) test
Nathan Hrovat (calf) 1 week
Lin Jong (leg) TBC
Tory Dickson (ankle) 8 weeks
Easton Wood (hamstring) 6 weeks
Shaun Higgins (foot) season

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

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

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

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


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Thompson to step in for van Berlo

Before getting a bad knock on the knee in the Showdown, Nathan van Berlo gets away with the ball at AAMI Stadium.(Photo by Morne de Klerk/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

ADELAIDE'S midfield woes increased today with captain Nathan van Berlo being ruled out for a month with bone bruising to a knee.

Van Berlo was subbed out of Sunday's Showdown XXXIV after taking a knock to the knee. Now scans have revealed the hit has caused bone bruising.

Experienced midfielder Scott Thompson will captain Adelaide in van Berlo's absence during Sunday's clash with the Western Bulldogs at AAMI Stadium.

Crows must step up now: Rutten

Adelaide is listed to have a day off from formal training on Wednesday before a closed practice session at AAMI Stadium on Thursday morning.

This work-out will form the basis of critical decisions at the selection table where Sanderson has to deal with Adelaide's lack of midfield productivity being further hurt by the loss of van Berlo.


The Crows have worryingly fallen from top-two rankings for winning clearances and scoring from clearances to 10th and eighth respectively.

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Ablett must get through training

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

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

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

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

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

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

"It's good now.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- with AAP


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Brogan faces tribunal

Dean Brogan was sent straight to the tribunal after an AFL investigation. Picture: Mark Evans Source: Herald Sun

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Judd was slugged a four-match suspension.


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Carey questions Mick's plan

Written By Unknown on Minggu, 14 April 2013 | 14.57

Mick Malthouse looks on during his side's loss to Geelong at Etihad Stadim Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Sunday Herald Sun

FOOTBALL great Wayne Carey says Mick Malthouse's "defensive" game plan is not suited to Carlton's playing stocks.

Despite being competitive in all three of their matches the Blues are yet to register a win under the triple premiership coach.

"Carlton don't have the defensive attitude... you've got to look at your cattle," Carey told Triple M's The Sunday Rub.

"I think he's (Malthouse) starting to realise this side can't play the defensive footy that I like."

Geelong banished Carlton to an 0-3 record last night with a 16-point victory at Etihad Stadium.

The Blues were narrowly defeated by Richmond in Round 1 and Collingwood last week.

"They don't have the personnel that Collingwood had when he got to Collingwood," Carey said.


"They don't have the personnel that West Coast had, West Coast had one of the best defences of all time.

"This is a fast, young, take on style of footy (and) I think he's realising they just can't play the style of game that he
wants."

Malthouse remained optimistic last night in his post-match conference.

"I am not disappointed in the attitude (of the players) or the effort," Malthouse said.

"I think we let ourselves down in five or seven minutes a quarter, or a half, and that's what happened.

Carlton faces the grim task of taking on a West Coast outfit buoyed by yesterday's 94-point demolition of Melbourne.


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Round 3 Halftime Report

Geelong v Carlton at Etihad Stadium. Cat Tom Hawkins battles with Michael Jamison Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Sunday Herald Sun

THE Swans and Eagles show who's boss with 11-goal third-quarter bursts to swamp the 'Roos and Demons but Jeremy Howe gives Melbourne fans something to smile about.

Sydney's Nick Smith marks in front of North Melbourne's Ben Cunnington. Source: News Limited

ANYTHING YOU CAN DO, WE CAN DO BETTER

IT was poetry in motion. Sydney and West Coast put their rivals to the sword with 11-goal third-quarter bursts against North Melbourne and Melbourne respectively. The Swans piled on 11.4 in the term to set up their convincing win over the Kangaroos at Blundstone Arena, Hobart. It was the Swans best quarter effort since 1995. Meanwhile, the Eagles slotted 11.3 on the way to thrashing a hapless Demons outfit by 94 points. The Eagles kicked a club-record 11.4 in a quarter against GWS Giants last year.

STILL STRUGGLING: Drew Petrie of the Kangaroos jumps for a mark. Picture: Michael Dodge Source: Getty Images

PETRIE'S DROUGHT

NORTH Melbourne forward Drew Petrie's struggles in Hobart continued yesterday with the veteran 'Roo held without a goal by All-Australian fullback Ted Richards. Petrie has kicked just two goals in three appearances at Blundstone Arena. To make matters worse it was the 30-year-old's second below par effort in three weeks after having his colours lowered by Collingwood defender Nathan Brown in Round 1.

Demon Jeremy Howe marks over Andrew Embley. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

HOWE GOOD WAS THAT?

MELBOURNE might have plunged deeper into the doldrums yesterday, but high-flyer Jeremy Howe was at his acrobatic best again. Howe soared over Eagle Andrew Embley to take a trademark hanger.

See the awesome photo sequence here.

Melbourne Demons v West Coast Eagles at the MCG. Demons fans not happy. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Sunday Herald Sun

WHEN WILL THE DEMONS GET PHYSICAL?

THE Dees' first quarter yesterday was probably their best for the season. The intensity was up, they forced turnovers and they booted goals. Four in a row, in fact, to hold the lead up until the dying minutes. But they still amassed just six tackles for the term and tracked at 50 per cent efficiency. They need to learn how to wrap a man up and hit a target by foot, preferably before next Sunday's showdown with the Giants.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 13: Jonathon Patton of the Giants leaves the ground with a knee injury during the round three AFL match between the Greater Western Sydney Giants and the St Kilda Saints at StarTrack Oval on April 13, 2013 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) Source:

PATTON'S GIANT BLOW

THOUGHTS go out to Jon Patton today. The star big man has had a wretched run with injuries in his short career and last night he suffered by far his biggest blow. Patton spilled a mark, followed up, was tackled and went down grimacing in pain. The result? A torn ACL meaning he'll now likely spend the year on the sidelines. The No. 1 pick doesn't deserve that.

See the video here

Brisbane star Jonathan Brown celebrates one of his five goals against Gold Coast. Picture: Clark David Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

BROWN STILL THE LION'S KING

FORGET his disappointing first two rounds, Jono Brown reigned supreme last night with five goals against the Suns. His first half was inspirational, monstering young Sun Rory Atkins with the Lions staring at a 0-3 start to the season.

Suns players after to the Brisbane Lions at Metricon Stadium. Picture: Darren England Source: The Sunday Mail (Qld)

YOUNG SUNS STILL NEED THAT KILLER INSTINCT

TOO harsh to pot a kid in his second game, but Jackson Allen would love his defensive effort against the Lions back last night. The young Sun had the chance to bend down and touch Tom Rockliff's snap before it trickled through for a goal, but didn't. Strange. It proved a changer in the last quarter, while Aaron Hall would also love a moment back. Two huge - and inspirational - Ablett tackles set up a set-shot that he sprayed wide. The Suns still lack that killer instinct.

Melbourne Demons v West Coast Eagles at the MCG. Eagle Dean Cox in action. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

CAPTAIN COX CAN PLUG THE HOLE

HAVE you figured out how to take advantage of the SuperCoach captain's loophole this year? Because if you did you've probably banked 342 points courtesy of Dean Cox. With the rolling lockout in place, select a non-starter as captain (and have an emergency as cover) and put the vice-captaincy on a star like Cox. If they score well, leave it there and his score will count double. If not, simply change your choice back to someone else who hasn't played yet. It's a free hit.

Geelong v Carlton at Etihad Stadium. Matthew Kreuzer injured during contest with Steve Johnson in the first quarter Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

THE WALKING WOUNDED

IT was a battle of attrition at Etihad Stadium last night with keys players from Geelong and Carlton cut down with injuries.

Blues ruckman Matthew Kreuzer faces a nervous wait after breaking a bone in his thumb during the second quarter. Meanwhile, Cats excitement machine Travis Varcoe was subbed off with a shoulder injury following a heavy collision with Blues star Bryce Gibbs.

Cats Steve Johnson (knee), Andrew Mackie (ribs/back) and Harry Taylor (winded) found themselves in the hands of club medicos at different times but played on untroubled.

Terry Milera of the Saints controls the ball during the round three match against Greater Western Sydney Giants in Canberra. Picture: Ryan Pierse Source: Getty Images

SAINTS' MOSQUITO FLEET

ST KILDA small forwards Stephen Milne, Ahmed Saad and Terry Milera ran amok at Manuka Oval yesterday combining for eight goals and six score assists.

Milne led the brigade with three goals including his almost customary first of the match.

It was a welcome return to form for Milne who had managed just two goals in his first two matches of the season.

DONS SWEATING ON VIDEO

ESSENDON star Patrick Ryder and mature-aged recruit Nick Kommer will come under scrutiny for these hits on Fremantle opponents.

Ryder KO'd Docker Luke McPharlin with a hip and shoulder to the jaw that saw the defender substituted out of the match with concussion.

Kommer on the other hand clipped Docker Kepler Bradley in an attempted shepherding attempt off the ball.

Bradley was forced off the field with blood gushing from his face.


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Tigers crush Dogs, enjoy 3-0 start

Dustin Martin was huge with a game-high 150 SuperCoach points.

RICHMOND has dominated the Western Bulldogs by 67 points, giving the Tigers their best start to a season in 18 years.

The Tigers' 20.15 (135) to 10.8 (68) win on Sunday at Etihad Stadium gives them a 3-0 start, the first time they have done that since making the 1995 finals.

Captain Trent Cotchin continued his strong form with 36 possessions and fellow midfielders Dustin Martin and Brett Deledio also starred.


Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats and more

Jack Riewoldt kicked five goals, but did himself no favours with some undisciplined play in the first half.

Bulldogs key forward Liam Jones kicked four goals from limited chances and defenders Tom Young and Dale Morris worked hard under constant pressure.

Richmond had a dream start when Ivan Maric won the first ruck duel and tapped to Deledio, who goalled on the run with just 15 seconds on the clock.

Brett Deledio celebrates first goal. AFL Round 3: Richmond v Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium, Docklands. Picture: Carrafa Tim Source:

Jones kicked two goals to give the Bulldogs the lead, but the Tigers soon were winning the ball through the midfield.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 14: Liam Jones of the Bulldogs is tackled by Alex Rance of the Tigers during the round three AFL match between the Richmond Tigers and the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on April 14, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images) Source:

Only Richmond's inaccuracy stopped a first-quarter blowout.

They kicked 4.9 to take a 20-point lead at quarter-time, with Deledio and Martin in charge through the midfield.

Richmond kicked the first two goals of the second term, but the Bulldogs were able to restrict the damage for the rest of the half and keep the margin to 32 points.

The Tigers had plenty of opportunities - the inside 50s were a whopping 34-14 in their favour for the first half - but they lacked system in attack.

Riewoldt gave away four free kicks to go with his one first-half goal.

But it was only a matter of time before the Tigers killed the game off, given their domination through the midfield and in defence.

After the Bulldogs kicked the first goal in the third term, Richmond kicked the next four and had a 51-point lead at the last change.

The success-starved Tigers have made the finals only twice since losing the 1982 grand final.

Their 3-0 start adds to the pre-season expectations they will return to the top eight this year.

By contrast, the rebuilding Bulldogs suffered a dirty afternoon.

Easton Wood injured his hamstring in the first quarter and Tory Dickson was helped from the field in the last term after hurting his leg.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 14: Easton Wood of the Bulldogs comes off the ground after injuring his hamstring during the round three AFL match between the Richmond Tigers and the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on April 14, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images) Source:

The AFL could also fine the Bulldogs after Tom Campbell was a late addition to the side, despite not being named as one of the three emergencies.

He replaced Ayce Cordy, who has a tight back.

The Tigers also left out Jake Batchelor (ankle) for former Adelaide midfielder Chris Knights, who kicked a goal in his Richmond debut.


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Sliding rule causes chaos

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

Harry O, Brien collides with Luke Hodge, Picture: Ludbey Wayne

THE AFL's sliding rule has sparked a mountain of criticism after Harry O'Brien was today placed on report when the new law states he should have instead been awarded a free kick.

Hawthorn captain Luke Hodge slid towards the ball and collided with O'Brien's leg.

VIDEO: See the incident in the video player above

Under the new rule, O'Brien should have been awarded a free kick due to Hodge making dangerous contact below his knees.


Live HQ: Collingwood v Hawthorn

But the umpire instead gave Hodge the ball, much to the confusion of the players, commentators and spectators.

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

The decision sparked immediate backlash on social media.

Bomber Jason Winderlich tweeted the ruling confused him even more, while SuperFooty readers were quick to vent their frustration.

What did you think of the decision? Watch the replay in the video player above and tweet us @SuperFooty, or leave a comment below.
 


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