Tex gets hand from the 'other side'

Taylor Walker goes off injured after wrecking his knee. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

INJURED Crows forward Taylor Walker on Monday is expected to have the tendon of a dead person grafted to his damaged right knee.

This is to repair lateral collateral ligament damage (LCL) to the joint.

At the same time, Walker will have the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rebuilt with a traditional graft from a hamstring.

The LCL also can be rebuilt with a graft from Walker's hamstring, but adelaidenow understands the Crows already have sourced a tendon from a donor clinic in Queensland.

The Adelaide Football Club medicos today refused to detail the procedure citing patient confidentiality.

However, Walker already has put the process on public record by saying on radio "I'm actually going to get an allograft for my lateral ligament which I've torn as well, so someone that's passed away, I get a ligament from them."

Adelaide football operations chief Phil Harper told adelaidenow: "It is not an unusual procedure. It is quite a standard procedure with knee injuries and has been done before several times.

"Taylor has consulted two surgeons. They are both of the same opinion. They are both extremely confident it will work."

Walker will have to spend 12 months out of AFL football to recuperate.

Walker's season - in which he carried the hopes of the Adelaide attack after the defection of fellow key forward Kurt Tippett to Sydney - ended after an awkward landing on the MCG last Saturday.

Walker's leadership - that has drawn the praise of his teammates - will not be lost as Adelaide coach Brenton Sanderson wants to keep Walker involved in the Crows' campaign this season.

"We'll get Tex doing some opposition analysis stuff when he's ready," Sanderson said.

"Tex will be back. He's got another seven or eight good years ahead of him. The next game he plays will be at Adelaide Oval, which will be something for him to look forward to. It's a setback a lot of players have had to go through during their careers.

"There's no reason he can't bounce back and be an even better player than what he was."

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Gilbert joins Hayes on the sidelines

Sam Gilbert trudges off with a knee injury. Picture: Getty

SAM Gilbert has avoided becoming the latest ACL victim but will still miss "several weeks", joining St Kilda champion Lenny Hayes on the sidelines.

Gilbert underwent scans today, revealing structural damage to his left knee and he has been booked in for knee surgery this week.

VIDEO: See the video in the player above

Live HQ: Collingwood v St Kilda

In a statement, the Saints said: "(Gilbert) is expected to miss several weeks. A specific time frame cannot be ascertained until after the surgery is completed."

Hayes withdrew from last night's clash with a calf strain after breaking down in the pre-match warm-up.

He is expected to miss a further 2-3 weeks.

St Kilda is also expected to lose Justin Koschitzke after his errant elbow floored Magpie Jamie Elliott last night.

The Saints meet Carlton next Monday night before duels with Adelaide (AAMI Stadium) and the Western Bulldogs.

Round 6: Collingwood v St. Kilda at Etihad Stadium , Docklands May 3rd 2013 Melbourne, Sam Gilbert off injured in the third Picture: Salpigtidis George Source:

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Sluggish Dons able to slay Giants

Bomber Nick Kommer flies to try to foil a catch from Jonathan Giles. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

Scott Gumbleton and Jobe Watson celebrate. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

A SLUGGISH Essendon have sprung to life in time to avoid having their unbeaten AFL streak ended by winless Greater Western Sydney at Etihad Stadium.

For slightly more than a half on Saturday, the bottom-placed Giants threatened to produce one of AFL history's great upsets against the top-placed Bombers.

But after trailing by 27 points early in the second half, Essendon lifted as the Giants tired to win 17.18 (120) to 12.9 (81) and remain unbeaten heading into Friday night's bumper clash with Geelong, when there's no way they'll get away with such a poor start.

The Giants kicked three unanswered goals in the first nine minutes, including two to impressive young key forward Jeremy Cameron (six goals).

Cameron had three by quarter time, forcing the Bombers to swap his starting opponent Tayte Pears for Cale Hooker.

But GWS, 21 points clear at the first change, went further ahead.

AFL Round 6: Essendon v GWS at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne. Picture: Coppel Alex Source: Herald Sun

Tom Scully, enjoying a fine game in the midfield, kicked his second goal early in the second term.

And while Alwyn Davey replied for the Bombers, Cameron got clear of Hooker to mark and kick his fourth to push the lead to 27 points midway through the quarter.

LIVE HQ- Get all the SuperCoach scores and stats here

The Bombers got it back to 21 points by halftime, but Cameron kicked his fifth less than a minute into the second half to rebuild a 27-point lead.

Brendon Goddard crashes his way through. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

When Essendon midfielder Brent Stanton was subbed out minutes later with an apparent quad injury, the Bombers seemed in major trouble.

But having managed just three goals to that point, they finally hit back, with four majors in a nine-minute burst.

Brendon Goddard kicked the first of those and key forward Stewart Crameri the fourth, after taking his first mark for the day midway through the third term.

Brendan Goddard and Sam Reid. Picture: Coppel Alex Source: Herald Sun

That brought Essendon within two points.

The Giants held the Bombers at bay for another nine minutes, before Crameri's second goal gave Essendon the lead for the first time since the game's opening minutes.

With captain Jobe Watson lifting after a quiet start, Goddard and David Zaharakis busy and Michael Hibberd and Courtenay Dempsey providing enormous run, Essendon dominated the rest of the term to take a stranglehold on the match.

By five minutes into the last quarter, Crameri had four goals, the Bombers led by 24 points and the result was clear.

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Roos end Power's unbeaten run

Ben Cunnington tries to break free of Port Adelaide's Kane Cornes. Picture: Nikki Davis-jones Source: The Mercury

NORTH Melbourne has ended Port Adelaide's unbeaten start to the AFL season with a hard fought 10-point victory at Bellerive.

The Kangaroos improved their season to 2-4 with a 14.9(93) to 12.11(83) win at their part-time Hobart base, seeing off a spirited Port side that sent a final quarter scare into the home side.

The Power are now 5-1 after proving early-season surprise packets and they fought hard but were outmuscled by a home side hardened by a tough opening to their campaign.

North had nine goalscorers with Drew Petrie bagging three and Aaron Black, Lindsay Thomas and Leigh Adams doubles.

For Port, Jay Schulz kicked three and Chad Wingard a double.

The Kangaroos kicked seven goals to one in the first quarter to lead by 33 at the first break before the gallant Power fought back in the second to be down by just 15.

North Melbourne skipper Andrew Swallow fights for the ball. Picture: Nikki Davis-jones Source: The Mercury

North booted three goals to one in the third to lead by 28 at three-quarter time before managing just two to Port's five in the last.

LIVE HQ- Get all the SuperCoach scores and stats here

The Kangaroos' tough losses to big guns Collingwood, Geelong, Sydney and Hawthorn should have stood them in good stead against a side whose scalps included strugglers Melbourne, GWS and Gold Coast.

But they again showed the lapses that have cost them so far in 2013.

Port's Justin Westhoff snaps unsuccessfully for a goal Picture: Luke Bowden Source: The Mercury

Without grounded head coach Ken Hinkley, who stayed in Adelaide after suffering from a virus midweek, Port looked to be continuing their impressive start to the season when diminutive Jake Neade booted the first goal of the match.

But North upped the physical pressure and kicked the next seven, including two from Black, to take a commanding 44-11 lead to the first break.

Port fought back with five goals to two in the second, including two to Wingard, to get themselves back into the game at 58-43 at the long break.

Port's Alipate Carlile (front) marks over North's Drew Petrie Picture: Luke Bowden Source: The Mercury

The Kangaroos stifled anything Port could offer in the third to lead 79-51 at the final change but needed to find some desperation in the final minutes to hang on.
 

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Crows sick of Hawks hangover

Adelaide's Scott Camporeale is sick of hearing about what the Crows did and didn't do last season. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

ADELAIDE is tiring of living off the memory of its bitter, five-point preliminary final loss to Hawthorn last September - the game labelled as showing the Crows were "a kick away from the Grand Final".

The Crows face Hawthorn tomorrow for the first time since that epic final that was supposed to spur Adelaide to another top-four finish, which now seems far away from Brenton Sanderson's group, particularly with the loss of key forward Taylor Walker with a season-ending knee injury.

Crows midfield coach Scott Camporeale today tried to dismiss the notion that Adelaide players are still living off the back-slapping tributes of 2012 when they lifted the club from 14th to second in the home-and-away series.

"To be quite honest, I'm sick of hearing about that," said Camporeale.

"Last year was last year and this club has not achieved anything. All we did last year was gain a little bit more respect back from the competition.

"Playing in the preliminary final was a bonus for us. We understand where we're at - we all have to improve.

"We haven't spoken once about the preliminary final. That's last year. We have more as a club and a team to worry about than what happened last year."

Adelaide's search for answers after a disappointing 2-3 start brought savage internal questioning at West Lakes this week.

"Just clarity," said Camporeale of the result of the frank discussions between players and coaches this week.

"Clarity in what is expected from the individual and the group."

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Hawks know what to expect

Jay Clark and Mick Warner argue over what to do with their defence ahead of Round 6.

Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson says the Hawks need to improve their clearance numbers. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ALASTAIR Clarkson knows his Hawthorn side will confront a different looking Adelaide forward line at AAMI Stadium tomorrow.

But he expects the Crows game plan to remain the same.

Kurt Tippett is long gone and the Crows are now coming to terms with the fact Taylor Walker will miss the year with a knee injury.

The loss of opposition forwards normally creates an air of unpredictability their line-up.

But Clarkson suggested today counterpart Brenton Sanderson showed his hand at the selection table last night by selecting tall forward Shaun McKernan.

"It would have been a little bit more unpredictable if just (Jason) Porplyzia came in and they went a bit smaller,'' Clarkson said.

"But I'd expect that they'd structure up pretty similarly to what they have in the last little while.

"We've just got to make sure we defend the way we've defended all year, no matter who the opponent is.

"Walker is such a huge presence for them, but McKernan is a big boy. He and the big fella (Josh) Jenkins give them a bit more flexibility in what they do with the ruck, too.

"They can take (Sam) Jacobs forward a little bit more often than they have in the past. So we've just got to be prepared for all those things tomorrow afternoon.''

The Hawks were smashed in the clinches by North Melbourne last week.

They lost out in clearances and contested possessions as well as inside-50s but still managed to eek out a three-point win.

Clarkson said a similar result in those key areas tomorrow would not augur well for his side.

"It says something about our group that we still found a way to win but I'm not too confident that if all the stats are like that this week, that we'll get over the line against the Crows,'' he said.

"So we've got to make sure we're a bit more competitive in that area of the game.''
 

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Lamb's long wait over

Sydney younsters Brandon Jack (left) and Jed Lamb. Picture: Chris Pavlich Source: The Daily Telegraph

TWO years of injury setbacks and a nearly 500km off-season cycling odyssey in Myanmar have helped Sydney's Jed Lamb prepare for his AFL debut on Sunday.

Lamb was the Swans' first selection in the 2010 draft, which also netted premiership players Luke Parker and Alex Johnson.

The 20-year-old has had to a wait a little longer for his first AFL game, which will come against Brisbane at the SCG, but it's had nothing to do with the club's reputation for making players earn their stripes.

"It has been frustrating," Lamb said today.

"In the first year, I missed a lot because of injured hamstrings then, last year, I had shin splints. Towards the back end, I started to build some consistency, but it was a bit late."

It wasn't until the Swans started pre-season training last November that Lamb made coach John Longmire really sit up and take notice.

"That's one of the question marks you have, for young players in particular. When they go away, that's their time really to improve and to make up some ground on senior players," Longmire said.

"The challenge is (to do it) when nobody is watching, to do it by themselves.

"When he came back for his first day of pre-season, Jed was in great condition and he'd obviously worked quite hard.

"Once he'd increased his fitness in the off-season, we then got to work on his other areas of the game that he needed to improve on."

Lamb spent his holidays with reserves coach Jared Crouch on a cycling tour around Myanmar that blends young elite athletes with everyday people.

Physically, it was a great workout, but the real upside came in the form of personal development.

"That really put a perspective on footy and life in general. It really helped me with footy, during pre-season when things got tough - not to complain," Lamb said.

"Because over there, it just makes us realise we whinge about the stupidest things."

Longmire suggested the Lions were a more-potent threat than their 2-3 record implied.

"They play a bit of a similar style to Geelong. They've got some really good runners in the team and actually had more scoring shots than we have," Longmire said.

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Panic Room: Essendon warning

Jay Clark and Mick Warner argue over what to do with their defence ahead of Round 6.

If Brendon Goddard is the slightest bit sore tomorrow morning, the Bombers wouldn't hesitate in giving him a rest. Source: Getty Images

SO ONE-sided is tomorrow's Essendon v Greater Western Sydney clash expected to be that even the Giants have "rested" players with a view to next week.

It would have been nice to see No.1 draft pick Lachie Whitfield run around again - especially for the SuperCoaches out there that plumped for him - but clearly Sheeds has the bigger picture in mind.

To that end it is no surprise that the Bombers have taken a similar approach at the selection table.

Jason Winderlich is simply "sore'' after playing a few matches in a row and even though Dyson Heppell is listed as being out because of a "groin'' we would suggest that if this game were against a top side the shaggy-haired one would be in the team.

And while Elliott Kavanagh, Nathan Lovett-Murray and Nick O'Brien are currently sitting on the emergencies list, we'd say they are more of a chance of playing than one or two of their more senior teammates who may happen to wake a bit sore after a restless night's sleep.

Meanwhile, Eagle-cum Swan-cum Hawk Matt Spangher flew to Adelaide with teammates today and is not without a chance of playing.

If the Crows swing a change, especially with the talls in the forward half of the ground, then don't be surprised to see Spangher make his Hawthorn debut.

The Cats are the kings of the late change but after Panic Room predicted a big out last weekend - cue Tom Hawkins' withdrawal - they have beaten us to the punch by announcing this afternoon Paul Chapman is out with hamstring soreness.

Another move isn't entirely out of the question, with the Geelong defence looking a little under-sized against Richmond trio Jack Riewoldt, Ty Vickery and Luke McGuane. Mitch Brown is listed as an emergency.

Sam Edmund, Jay Clark and Ben Dixon join Brad Johnson to discuss their 'DIY Fix-Ups' ahead of Round 6.

SUPERCOACH ALERT

You thought last week's midfield carnage was bad enough? This week the SuperCoach Gods have gone Armageddon on all defences across the land.

Heppell, Bryce Gibbs, Brett Goodes, Sam Docherty, Rory Laird and Jasper Pittard are all out.

Unfortunately the best solution for a lot of SuperCoaches this week will be to just sit it out and hope for the best.

But if you're keen to cover that last doughnut, consider flicking Pittard for St Kilda's Josh Saunders against Collingwood tonight.

Saunders debuted last week and scored 29 after being subbed on late in the game, and earned huge wraps from coach Scott Watters this week.

Job security seems OK and he's a dual position too.

Oh, and if you're considering making a Bomber - Jobe Watson, Brendon Goddard or David Zaharakis - captain against the Giants, make sure you're using the captain's loophole with either Dane Swan or Scott Pendlebury tonight.

The young coach of Oliver's Army is the No. 6 ranked SuperCoach this season. He reveals the secrets behind his dominance to Brad Johnson

MONEY MATTERS

Panic Room is a huge wrap for Gold Coast this week.

Scott Gullan may be enjoying time at Warrnambool this week - and good on him - but even through the clouds (in his head, not on the coast) he can see the Suns.

And so can his stand-in this week.

Matthew Pavlich, Aaron Sandilands and Kepler Bradley aren't playing which means the Dockers are bereft of any - recognised - key forwards.

Nat Fyfe being suspended robs Freo of some midfield grunt, while the loss of Stephen Hill takes away some outside run.

The Dockers are vulnerable tomorrow night, Gold Coast is starting to show some really good form at home and if it's a hot and humid night at Metricon - which it is forecast to be - then look out.

Not sold? Why not take Guy McKenna's men at the line (15.5) into Port Adelaide at the line (20.5) against North Melbourne.

The Kangaroos are probably genuine favourites, but surely the Power's form gets them to within three kicks in Hobart tomorrow?

That'll get you a $3.42 return.

ON NOTICE

West Coast is starting to stagger.

The Eagles are not yet on the ropes, but with a 1-4 record John Worsfold's men would want to start making a move.

Key players come back this weekend, including Nic Naitanui and Matt Rosa, but the inclusion with the most to prove is former Magpie Sharrod Wellingham.

We all had a laugh when we heard that Wellingham had injured his ankle while jumping on the trampoline just before Round 1, but given the Eagles woes since he desperately needs to make it up to the Eagles faithful - and fast - otherwise they will quickly jump off him.

BACK IN ACTION: Sharrod Wellingham impressed in an outing for East Perth. Picture: Duncan Watkinson Source: PerthNow

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Swans chairman to stand down

Sydney chairman Richard Colless to stand down at the end of the season. Picture: Sam Mooy Source: Herald Sun

RESPECTED Sydney chairman Richard Colless will stand down at the end of the season sighting "no particular reason" for his departure.

"Richard has overseen the establishment of the Swans as one of the competition's most highly regarded clubs, both on and off the field.," Demetriou said.

"In terms of members, revenue, attendances per game and national TV audiences, the Swans are now the single largest professional sporting club in Sydney."

Colless, the league's longest serving club chairman, informed the Swans today that he would be standing down at the end of the season.

"There is no particular reason for this decision other than the old adage that it is probably 'about time'," Colless, who joined the club in 1993, said.

"I want to place on record how indebted I am for the support of the hundreds, but probably thousands of people, over the last 20 years. It has been truly remarkable."

Under Colless's reign the Swans have won two premierships and become a mainstay in the NRL-dominant Sydney sporting landscape.

Sydney chief executive Andrew Ireland paid tribute to Colless.

"Richard's contribution to the Club, spanning 20 years, has been quite remarkable," he said.

"He has shown a unique ability to understand how a membership based club playing in Australia's premier sporting competition, in the nation's most competitive sporting market, best operates.

"Above all else, he has an unwavering passion for the Club, the game and its history," Ireland said.

Colless was the inaugural chairman of the West Coast Eagles before taking the helm at Sydney.

He was awarded an Order of Australia medal in 2006 for services to Australian Rules football.

Colless will step aside in February at the club's annual general meeting.

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

LIVE CHAT: Round 6 AFL teams

Shane Crawford reveals his latest SuperCoach tips ahead of Round 6

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

TALK SuperCoach and selections in the live chat with Gilbert Gardiner and see all the Round 6 teams as they are named.

Is Andrew Krakouer back for Collingwood?

Is Jarrad Waite in at Carlton?

Who makes way at North Melbourne for Will Sierakowski?

And how does the loss of Nathan Fyfe hurt your SuperCoach team?

All will be revealed at 5:30pm - join Gilbert Gardiner right here.

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

SUPERCOACH: PLAYERS TO WATCH

Collingwood vs St Kilda
Scott Pendlebury has dominated against the Saints since 2011, averaging 126 points a game – ranked No.1 at the club. Ben McEvoy has led St Kilda's charge with an average of 127 a game.

Essendon vs GWS Giants
David Zaharakis' ANZAC Day heroics earned him a $20,800 price rise after his 140 points against Collingwood. Despite scoring 113 points against Gold Coast, Callan Ward's price still fell, albeit by only $300.

North Melbourne vs Port Adelaide
Daniel Wells ranks No.1 at North Melbourne for points scored since Round 3, averaging 123 a game. Hamish Hartlett has been Port Adelaide's most prolific scorer in this period, averaging 134 points a game.

Adelaide Crows vs Hawthorn
Rory Sloane's average of 112 points a game at AAMI Stadium this season ranks him No.1 at the club. Sam Mitchell has been Hawthorn's best scorer at the venue since 2011, averaging 115 points a game.

Richmond vs Geelong Cats
Despite receiving plenty of attention last week from Ryan Crowley, Brett Deledio still managed to get reach three figures. Jimmy Bartel was one of three Geelong players to crack the ton against the Bulldogs, finishing with 109 points.

Gold Coast Suns vs Fremantle
Jared Brennan has averaged 103 points a game at home this season, ranked third at the club. Chris Mayne starred when he last played at Metricon Stadium in Round 6 last season, booting three goals straight on his way to 127 points.

Sydney Swans vs Brisbane Lions
Daniel Hannebery's average of 107 points a game this year is the fourth-most of any midfielder at the club. Brent Moloney's average of 103 points is the second-most of any midfielder at the club behind Tom Rockliff.

Carlton vs Melbourne
Chris Judd has averaged 26 disposals and 127 points a game against Melbourne since 2010. Colin Sylvia has been a solid performer in this period, averaging 21 disposals and 94 points a game.

West Coast Eagles vs Western Bulldogs
Josh Kennedy booted four goals straight in the first half last week against Port Adelaide, finishing with 124 points for the match. Liam Jones booted four goals of his own against Geelong, finishing with 107 points.

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Mitchell back on Power list

Shane Crawford reveals his latest SuperCoach tips ahead of Round 6

Kane Mitchell elevated back to Port Adelaide's senior list. Picture: Reed Sarah Source: The Advertiser

PORT Adelaide today put key defender and former best and fairest Jackson Trengove on the long-term injury list and re-elevated speedy Sandover Medallist Kane Mitchell to the senior list.

Trengove is out with a broken foot and Port today lodged a surgeon's report with the AFL for him to gain permission to be on the long-term injury list. He had a screw inserted to help his healing when having surgery on Monday.

Mitchell, a mature age recruit at 23, was the obvious choice for elevation to the senior list after impressing in the first three games of the season, when he was filling in for Nick Salter, another Port player who was missing with a foot injury.

Port high performance manager Darren Burgess predicted Trengove, a joint 2011 Jack Cahill Medallist with Travis Boak, would be back within three months.

"Jackson's metatarsal fracture required surgical fixation with the insertion of a screw," Burgess said.

"He will re-commence running in approximately six weeks and we expect his full rehabilitation program to take ten weeks."

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Jack must work both ways: Hardwick

Richmond's Jack Riewoldt leaves the field after their one-point loss. to Fremantle Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

RICHMOND coach Damien Hardwick says it is Jack Riewoldt's defensive game rather than his on-field attitude that needs adjusting after last week's loss to Fremantle.

Riewoldt's on-field behaviour in the one-point loss to the Dockers has been put under the spotlight, with commentator Mark Maclure labelling him a "prima donna".

But Hardwick said today his biggest concern with Riewoldt's game last week was that his defensive play was not up to the standard he expected.

"We spoke on Monday about his game and he was disappointed,'' Hardwick said.

"Offensively he is always going to have ups and downs. He played on a quality opponent, Luke McPharlin. We were disappointed with his defensive aspects of his game.

"We felt, and Jack would be the first to admit, that he didn't chase hard enough and his defensive efforts weren't to his usual standard.

"I thought he had a below standard game on the weekend and he would be the first one to agree with that.''

Hardwick said Riewoldt's passion was one of his great attributes as a player, but admitted the Tigers would like to harness it at times.

"He is a passionate individual and that's part of the reason that makes him a great player,'' Hardwick said.

"You look at most strikers across the league and within the AFL, they're passionate players.

"Travis Cloke, Buddy Franklin...all these type of players...they play with passion and Jack is no different.

"Do we want him to harness that passion at times? Of course we do...that is something he has to work on and he accepts that.''

Hardwick said the Tigers had moved on quickly from the narrow loss to the Dockers and were focused on their challenge against Geelong on Saturday night at the MCG.

"They are a formidable outfit, we are looking forward to the opportunity to play them,'' he said.

"We certainly think it will bring out our best footy and we think we are capable of getting a result.''
 

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Naitanui close to AFL return

Nic Naitanui could return this weekend against the Western Bulldogs. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper. Source: PerthNow

WEST Coast coach John Worsfold says there's no limit on the number of returning players he can throw into the side this week because most are match-hardened and ready to play.

Worsfold admitted ruckman Nic Naitanui would be forced to play restricted game time if he resumes against the Western Bulldogs at Patersons Stadium on Sunday.

Naitanui will either make his long-awaited return for the Eagles or not play football at all this weekend.

Worsfold conceded Naitanui would be short of match fitness, as was Daniel Kerr after a limited pre-season, but he was adamant there was no risk in bringing back a host of other players following injuries.

Midfielders Sharrod Wellingham and Matt Rosa are likely to make their first appearances of the season, while Andrew Embley, Adam Selwood and Brad Sheppard are also likely to be available for selection.

"When we pick the side, we would weigh up who are we bringing in and where are they at and what does that mean for the team," Worsfold said.

"It would be fair to say that we wouldn't pick a team that we thought wasn't going to be fit enough to play."

Key clearance winner Matt Priddis, who was concussed in the first quarter of last Saturday's disastrous loss to Port Adelaide, must pass a CogState test before being cleared to play.

"He's looking great, feeling good. He still has to fulfil some commitments in terms of the concussion stuff," Worsfold said.

"But on what we take as indications, he's feeling good. But the doctors will put him through the wringer in that regard."

Worsfold said the club had not lowered its expectations for the season despite its 1-4 start.

"The doomsayers say 'well that's it, the season's done and dusted. You may as well wipe it'," he said.

"Our view is there's a lot of footy to play and we're pretty excited about what we can still achieve.

"We'll cop the criticism and we'll cop the advice. We haven't lived up to expectations to this point, but we're really looking forward to the challenge of stepping up to all that as the season unfolds."

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Fractured back sidelines Davis for six

Greater Western Sydney co-captain Phil Davis will miss the next six weeks with a back injury. Source: Getty Images

GREATER Western Sydney co-captain Phil Davis will miss six weeks due to a back injury, further stretching the AFL cellar dwellers' thin defensive stocks.

GWS have leaked an average of 19.8 goals this season, the worst record in the league, with the exception of Melbourne.

The absence of key defender Davis, who often takes the opposition's most dangerous forward, won't help their chances of fixing that trend and posting their first win of 2013.

"Phil underwent scans and there was a fracture present so he'll be on a non-weight bearing training program for the next month, due to the injury," GWS sports scientist John Quinn said.

Davis was the only man to play all 22 games in the Giants' maiden AFL campaign last year.

"We believe the injury was triggered by a knock to the lower back in recent weeks and it would continue to get worse if he played on," Quinn said.

Setanta O'hAilpin, who kicked eight goals in his first two games back after a knee reconstruction, will also miss Saturday's clash with Essendon at Etihad Stadium.

O'hAilpin (calf) is slated to return the following weekend, when GWS host Adelaide in their first game of the year at Showground Stadium.

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Dockers brace for Gaz, Suns

Fremantle coach Ross Lyon expects Gold Coast to come out firing on Saturday. Source: PerthNow

FREMANTLE coach Ross Lyon has labelled looming rival Gary Ablett as "almost untaggable", as he labelled the Gold Coast clash as a game of "opportunity" for both sides.

The Dockers fly out to the Gold Coast tomorrow ahead of Saturday's showdown with the Suns and will do so minus several of their key players.

The guilty verdict and two game suspension handed down to Nat Fyfe last night added the ball winner to an unavailable list that already included captain Matthew Pavlich, ruckman Aaron Sandilands and forward Kepler Bradley, while Zac Clarke and Paul Duffield are listed as "test".

It could leave Fremantle vulnerable in the longest trip in the AFL and Lyon said Gold Coast would see the game as an opportunity.

"With Nathan Fyfe out, we need to step up," Lyon said. "They'll see us as an opportunity; we see it as an

opportunity as well.

"I think the first point (is that) we acknowledge Gold Coast have really developed and improved.

"They're on two wins, they're looking to go to three wins, third year development, they've got a lot of their senior players back.

"Last year, we went up there without a deep understanding of them and, really, almost got beaten.

"They'll have belief they can beat us, it's their home turf, they've really grown.

"For us, it's a red alert and we've got to handle the travel well – which we do – but we've got a lot of improvement
in us."

A plucky Gold Coast threatened a boilover against Fremantle in the same round last season, with the Suns holding a 17-point lead at halftime.

The side then closed within a point, before Tendai Mzungu grubbered a goal in the final seconds to secure the seven point win.

West Australian Harley Bennell ran amok in that clash and is in line to return this round after recovering from a minor hamstring strain, while Ablett, who missed last year's game, will also threaten an understrength Dockers midfield.

The game will undoubtedly throw up the showdown between Ryan Crowley and Ablett, the latter of which sparked a furore last season after tweeting, "Crowley is a joke! Play the ball, not the man!".

Lyon refused to confirm the matchup and said the Suns ball-magnet was "almost untaggable".

"I think a lot of teams don't even tag him anymore, he's almost untaggable," he said.

"Do we look to give him some offensive headaches, is he the one we go to, but, then, does Bennell come back for them? They've got (David) Swallow.

"I've been in the business a little while and everyone has an opinion and Gary is entitled to his.

"We really value Ryan, I think he strikes a balance and I think he kicked 18 goals last year, Ryan Crowley.

"He can get forward, he's quite tall, so whoever he goes to, we see Ryan as an offensive threat."

Meanwhile, Lyon said Bradley had recovered well from surgery in Melbourne yesterday, while Anthony Morabito had made it through his first full training with the team.

"It was his (Morabito's) first re-introduction (yesterday)," he said.

"He's been doing a lot of one-to-one and we're keen, at the right time, that Anthony will update you.

"His diet is immaculate, he's looking a million bucks, he's got all his strength and power back and now he's just graduating his footy.

"But it's important that Anthony talks to where he's at, I really don't feel comfortable (talking for Anthony)."

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Cotchin backs Jack's passion

Jack Riewoldt makes a point at Richmond training. Source: Getty Images

RICHMOND captain Trent Cotchin has defended Jack Riewoldt for wearing his "heart on his sleeve" amid claims the key forward was letting the Tigers down with bad body language.

Riewoldt's attitude was brought into question after the Tigers one-point loss to Fremantle at Patersons Stadium when Carlton premiership forward Mark Maclure branded the spearhead "a prima donna".

"It's about time he actually stood up himself and did something," Maclure said.

Riewoldt was held to one goal against All Australian defender Luke McPharlin.

"He's a passionate guy," Cotchin told the club's website.

"He's a fantastic person and we love playing with him.

"Whether or not people from the outside world think he's doing the wrong thing, we don't have any issues with the
way he wears his heart on his sleeve."

Cotchin said Riewoldt was playing an important role for the team.

"He's played a real selfless role at times for the team... he's let Ty Vickery take control and Luke McGuane's stepped up.

"He's always speaking and he's always giving direction to the young guys in the forward line."

Riewoldt today said he wasn't affected by the criticism.

"I play with emotion... it's a double edged sword AFL, there's definitely cries for players to have a bit more
personality, but if you show a bit of personality you get shot down pretty quickly.

"I'm an easy target, I know that."

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Kerr 'shocked' by fadeout to Port

Port's Cameron O'Shea runs away from Eagle Daniel Kerr. Picture: Reed Sarah Source: adelaidenow

WEST Coast veteran Daniel Kerr is "still in shock" from his team's second-half capitulation to Port Adelaide.

The Eagles led by as much as 41 points during the third quarter of Saturday night's game at AAMI Stadium, but faded horribly to lose by five points and slump to a dismal 1-4 record.

It is the third time this season John Worsfold's men have dominated the first half, only to miss out on the four points.

Kerr described the loss to the resurgent Port Adelaide as "disappointing a game as I've been involved in" while lamenting another poor effort in front of goal.

"It really did feel late in the game that we were out on our feet and they were running hard," Kerr said.

Port Adelaide pull off an amazing comeback to beat West Coast by five points at AAMI Stadium.

"Once again, second week in a row, our goalkicking was poor. I thought we could have put them away in the first half, and even in the last quarter we had some shots that could have edged us in front.

"We would have probably won the game if we'd nailed a few of our opportunities."

Kerr, who is slowly working his way back to full fitness after his pre-season was interrupted by injury, denied the Eagles did not have the leg speed to match their younger and faster rivals.

Port Adelaide youngster Jake Neade and Carlton pair Chris Yarran and Jeff Garlett all burned off their West Coast opponents at crucial times in the past two games, leaving many Eagles players gasping for air.

"There's ebbs and flows in games and there's a lot of tactical changes in games," Kerr said.

"I thought in the second half they (Port) worked out a few things that were working for us, and it probably took us (as players) a little bit of time to realise that they'd worked out what we were doing.

"By that time the game was close and we'd lost a sub and their sub came on and had a fantastic impact on the game and by that stage it was too late.

"I'm still in shock now to be honest. It's a tough one to lose."

Key midfielder Matt Priddis (concussion) remains in doubt for Sunday's game against the Western Bulldogs at Patersons Stadium, but the Eagles could be boosted by the inclusion of star recruit Sharrod Wellingham and reliable wingman Matt Rosa.

Kerr believed that he, Wellingham (ankle) and Rosa (thigh) could all squeeze into the same side despite the trio still building towards 100 per cent fitness.

"Rosa and Wellingham are a lot different to myself and they've completed pretty much every session of the pre-season, so there's no issue with their fitness at all," Kerr said.

"Sharrod is extremely fit. He ran an extremely good fitness test and he's been able to run on his leg on a special treadmill that we have for a number of weeks now and he's been running out on the track.

"Matthew is the same so their issue won't be fitness. It's just that they've had injuries that have kept them out."

West Coast captain Darren Glass has been offered a two-week ban for rough conduct towards Port Adelaide's Paul Stewart.
 

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

The Barometer: Round 6

Long term injuries to Cyril Rioli and Tex Walker a huge blow for AFL.

Carlton's Jarrad Waite - will he come in this week? Picture: Norm Oorloff Source: Herald Sun

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

ADELAIDE CROWS

INJURIES
Nathan van Berlo (knee)- 3 weeks
Sam Shaw (hamstring) - 6 weeks
Sam Siggins (ankle) - 1-2 weeks
Taylor Walker (knee) - Season
Luke Brown (concussion) - Test

ON THE BLOCK: WHO else? He was up and going, and now Taylor Walker is gone. Just like that. It is the biggest possible blow for the Crows. Walker has done his ACL - what a disaster. In terms of this week, Luke Brown will be touch and go.

ON THE CUSP: Lewis Johnston - your time has come. The recruit is yet to make his club debut with the Crows, but this may be the week. It almost has to be the week. With Walker down, they need a forward spark. Expect to also see the likes of Jarryd Lyons and Mitchell Grigg considered.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: From having Kurt Tippett and Walker to neither of them. It is a very tough proposition for the Crows, but one they will need to work through in 2013. The coaching staff will spend the week trying to come up with a forward set-up that works. They need a solution quickly with Hawthorn to come at AAMI Stadium on Saturday. Tough times ahead, potentially.

Taylor Walker goes off injured. Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: Herald Sun

BRISBANE LIONS

INJURIES
Claye Beams (knee) - season
Stef Martin (ankle) - 6 weeks
Jared Polec (ankle) - 6 weeks
Brent Staker (knee) - 1 week
Jesse O'Brien (adductor) - 2-3 weeks
Matt McGuire (ankle) - 1 week
Daniel Rich (shoulder) - 7 weeks
Steven Wrigley (knee) - season

ON THE BLOCK: THE Lions enjoyed a win at the weekend. But with some big names set to return this week, a couple are set to make way. The likes of Aaron Cornelius, Sam Docherty and Mitch Golby will all come under the microscope this week.

ON THE CUSP: THERE are a few walk-ins this week. Club legend Simon Black will return, along with the in-form Pearce Hanley from suspension. Jordan Lisle is also a chance of coming in. But is unlikely coach Michael Voss will want to make too many changes at once.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: THERE would have been massive relief for everyone involved at Brisbane following their win over Melbourne. The dogs are beginning to bark for Voss and a loss to the hapless Demons would have been a disaster. That win eases the pressure...for now. But they will need to show a lot more up against Sydney at the SCG on Sunday.

GALLERY: See the best 40 photos from Round 5

CARLTON

INJURIES
Bryce Gibbs (hamstring) Won't play
Matthew Kreuzer (thumb) 5 weeks
Andrew McInnes (knee) 5-6 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Bryce Gibbs is a confirmed out against the Dees. He was subbed out against Adelaide after feeling some tightness in his hamstring. And no disrespect to Melbourne, but why would they risk him against them? Shaun Hampson might find himself on the chopping block this week because of one big impending inclusion.

ON THE CUSP: EVERY Blues supporter will be very excited to see the return of forward Jarrad Waite. He was held goalless in his VFL return from a calf injury at the weekend, but he took six marks, including an impressive contested grab, against Port Melbourne. The Blues may opt for another week or so in the twos, but it would be tempting to bring him in against Melbourne. Not a bad way to ease him back into senior football.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: THE Blues have really hit their straps the past two weeks. With Chris Yarran and Jeff Garlett firing up forward, the Blues look dangerous and very exciting. Look for them both to have a day out against the Dees.

Carlton's Jarrad Waite - will he come in this week? Picture: Norm Oorloff Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD

INJURIES
Alan Toovey (knee) - season
Caolan Moonen (calf)- test
Dayne Beams (quad)- 2-3 weeks
Brodie Grundy - (Back) 1-2 weeks
Lachlan Keeffe - (Knee) - 1-2 weeks
Clinton Young - (Hamstring) - 1-2 weeks
Michael Hartley - (Shoulder) - 3 weeks
Nick Maxwell - (Fractured wrist) - 4 weeks
Tim Broomhead - (Glandular Fever)- 5-6 weeks
Jackson Ramsay (Wrist) - 7 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: THE Pies will badly miss the versatile Alan Toovey, who requires a knee reconstruction. The Magpies already struggle to contain small forwards, so the loss of Toovey - arguably their quickest defender - will hurt. In terms of unforced changes, big man Ben Hudson may be due for a well earned spell. Ben Sinclair will be very nervous, as well. Subbed out against the Bombers, he needs to rediscover some form. Former Blue Jordan Russell also looks low on confidence.

ON THE CUSP: BIG man Darren Jolly will surely come in against St Kilda. He got some miles into his legs in the twos last Friday night and appears to be a certain in. Andrew Krakouer also has to be a big chance. The Pies are happy with how Luke Ball came through his return to football in the twos. But they will not be rushing him back to senior football. No risks will be taking with the hard-at-it midfielder.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: THE Pies' depth has been tested this season, and that was on show against Essendon. They are beginning to really miss the likes of Dayne Beams and Ball, while the need for Clinton Young to come good has gone up a notch following the loss of Toovey. But regardless of personnel, coach Nathan Buckley would be concerned with the way his players threw up the white flag in the final term on Anzac Day. Need to show a lot more against St Kilda.

Magpie Darren Jolly. Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON

INJURIES
Nick Kommer (suspension) available
Michael Hurley (ankle) test
Dustin Fletcher (groin) test
Jake Carlisle (ankle) test
Paddy Ryder (suspension) 1 week

ON THE BLOCK: JAKE Carlisle a chance to miss the GWS clash with an ankle injury. Scans cleared him of serious damage but he remains sore and in some doubt. Travis Colyer was subbed out with just five kicks, but the Dons – top of the table and undefeated – remain a settled crew.

ON THE CUSP: MICHAEL Hurley and Dustin Fletcher are close. Fletcher looks the best chance to return although given the opponent and with an eye to the massive duel against the Cats in Round 7 James Hird might play it safe. Tayte Pears the obvious replacement for Carlisle should he not come up, while a pair of goals and wealth of touches for Jake Melksham in the VFL keeps him in the frame. Nick Kommer's suspension is over but he might battle to automatically regain a place in a winning side.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: ANOTHER stirring win without any significant injuries has the Bombers on top of the world – at least, from an on-field perspective. Even if Hurley, Fletcher and Carlisle miss the Giants clash, all look certain to return against Geelong, along with Paddy Ryder.

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

FREMANTLE

INJURIES

Kepler Bradley (knee) season
Anthony Morabito (knee) season
Aaron Sandiland (foot) 5 weeks
Matthew Pavlich (Achilles) 5 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: KEPLER Bradley will miss the remainder of the season after doing his ACL against Richmond. It is horrible luck for Bradley, who plays with a lot of heart. He was playing well up forward for the Dockers, so it will hurt them. The Dockers will also basly miss the suspended Nathan Fyfe this week.

ON THE CUSP: THE big question is who does the Dockers bring in for Bradley? With Matthew Pavlich still out, their forward line has taken a few hits. Will it be Paul Duffield? Will it be Zac Clarke? There is a bit to ponder there for coach Ross Lyon.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: THE trip to Metricon Stadium to face the Gold Coast Suns is an interesting one. The Suns were the better side in this clash last year and should have won. They will fancy their chances, so the Dockers cannot afford to head there and show them no respect. They should win, but it looms as a danger game following the unconvincing win over Richmond.

Fremantle's Kepler Bradley in the hands of the trainers after injuring his knee in the second term. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

GOLD COAST

INJURIES
Matthew Warnock (arm) 7 weeks
Joel Wilkinson (ankle) indefinitely
Liam Patrick (hamstring) 1 week
Seb Tape (knee) 1 week
Jesse Lonergan (wrist) test
Campbell Brown (suspension) 1 week
Maverick Weller (shoulder) test
Nathan Bock (leg) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: AARON Hall is probably the unlucky one to come out. The livewire forward looks like he might need a rest. Besides that, the reasonably settled Suns won't be making too many more changes. Winning form is good form, and coach Guy McKenna will be conscious of that.

ON THE CUSP: HARLEY Bennell will return from a hamstring strain this week against Fremantle - and what a welcome return he is. The silky smooth West Australian slots right back into the Gold Coast midfield. First year player Jesse Lonergan is also very close, but is tipped they will wait one more week before unleashing him.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: IT was a game they had to win against the Giants - and the Suns didn't disappoint. They put the foot down when they needed to exorcise the demons of last year's loss to their fellow expansion club in Canberra. Charlie Dixon's performance up forward was very exciting. The big man from Cairns has been threatening to do that for a long time. If he can maintain his consistency, it makes a massive difference to the Suns' set-up. They should have knocked off Freo at Metricon Stadium last year, and are more than a sneaky chance on Saturday.

Suns midfielder Harley Bennell. Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

GEELONG

INJURIES

Jared Rivers (knee) Won't play
Tom Hawkins (back soreness) - test
Paul Chapman (hamstring) - test
Josh Caddy (head) Test
Daniel Menzel (knee) season
Travis Varcoe (shoulder) 10-11 weeks
Josh Cowan (Achilles) indefinite
Hamish McIntosh (knee) indefinite
George Burbury (foot) indefinite
Jed Bews (foot) indefinite
Dawson Simpson (back) Indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: DEFENDER Jared Rivers will not play this week after hurting his knee against the Bulldogs. It has been described as a slight medial ligament strain. Young Cat Josh Caddy copped a knock to the head against the Bulldogs. He will monitored this week but not expected to miss.

ON THE CUSP: TOM Hawkins was a late withdrawal against the Bulldogs with back soreness. Paul Champan also missed, but with hamstring tightness. But Cats coach Chris Scott has said both will play Richmond at the MCG on Saturday night.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: NEVER really got out of second gear against the Western Bulldogs, but they never really had to. The Bulldogs threatened late in the match, but you never got the feeling they were in trouble. This week's clash against Richmond is a lot more intriguing.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores and stats from every game

GWS GIANTS

INJURIES
Matthew Buntine (lung) 1 week
Dom Tyson (knee) 3 weeks
Chad Cornes (shoulder) Indefinite
Dean Brogan (suspended) 1 week
Jon Patton (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: ALREADY looks like there are some tired legs at the Giants. Phil Davis is one who looks like a rest would benefit him. The likes of Nick Haynes and Adam Kennedy are in the same boat.

ON THE CUSP: EXPECT to see defender Josh Bruce come in this weekend. He was impressive in the twos at the weekend and the Giants need some more defensive cover.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: TOUGH times at the Giants. They have blown their two best chances for wins this season in successive weeks and it's difficult to see where one will come from at this point. They face the high-flying Bombers Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Very hard to see it not getting ugly at the Dome.

If you don't mind, umpire!

HAWTHORN

INJURIES
Brad Sewell (calf) test
Xavier Ellis (calf) test
Taylor Duryea (corked thigh) test
Brendan Whitecross (knee) 4 weeks
Cyril Rioli (hamstring) 6-8 weeks
Matthew Suckling (knee) indefinite
Alex Woodward (knee) indefinite
Ryan Schoenmakers (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: THE Hawks have lost Cyril Rioli for up to two months with a big hamstring tear. Shane Savage failed to have a touch after starting as the sub, while Paul Puopolo was quiet against the Roos.

ON THE CUSP: BRAD Sewell should come back this week. Matt Spangher remains on the fringe of a Hawks debut, while in good signs for the future tough young midfielder Mitch Hallahan was tremendous in the VFL.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: THE Hawks have just about emerged from their hellish start to the season and so far it's been a dream result. Four wins against 2012 finalists, a Tex-less Adelaide this week before the Grand Final rematch against Sydney. The loss of Cyril burns badly but the win over the Roos – with several A-graders down on their usual output – was impressive.

Cyril Rioli leaves the field after hurting his hamstring. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE

INJURIES

Jack Viney (rest) available
Nathan Stark (knee) test
Mitch Clark (foot) TBC
Neville Jetta (suspension) 1 week

ON THE BLOCK: AARON Davey was again the substitute – never a good sign – and had just three kicks after coming on. Sam Blease was subbed off after a quiet day, while Cam Pedersen remains on the fringe.

ON THE CUSP: CHRIS Dawes returned through the VFL but might need one more hitout before his Dees debut. Jack Fitzpatrick was outstanding for Casey with four goals, while Lynden Dunn was best afield with 35 disposals and 11 marks. Jack Viney should also return after a planned rest.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: THE injury list is thinning, as are the excuses at the Dees. A win last week and mostly competitive effort against the Lions is an improvement, while the Suns await after the Blues this week. Another must-win MCG encounter.

NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Robbie Tarrant (leg) test
Ben Jacobs (knee) test

ON THE BLOCK: Has the bubble burst on Majak Daw? The walking highlights reel looked out of place against an A-grade Hawks defence before being subbed out at three-quarter time. Daw missed three gettable set shots on goal.

ON THE CUSP: Robbie Tarrant must prove his fitness during the week after missing two matches with a leg injury. Lachie Hansen was a late withdrawal yesterday, but could struggle given Aaron Black's good work inside the arc. Boom pre-season ruck prospect Daniel Currie remains in the mix after another strong performance for Werribee including 40 hitouts, 13 disposals and seven marks. Jordan Gysberts was dominant in the first half (19 of 25 disposals) for the Tigers but faded.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Scott Thompson take a bow. The hard-nosed defender was nothing short of sublime on nemesis Lance Franklin. But it was the Kangaroos lack of poise and finishing skills which was the difference between four premiership points and a disappointing 1-4 start to the season. North butchered its chances forward of centre with kicks and handballs off target when they had worked hard to outnumber their Hawk rivals. The big three of Andrew Swallow, Daniel Wells and Jack Ziebell were dominant in the clinches while it was a coming of age for the likes of Jamie MacMillan, Shaun Atley and Ben Cunnington. Aaron Black provided a strong target inside the arc and should make it tough for Lachie Hansen to break back into the best 22.

PORT ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Brett Ebert (adductor) 2 weeks
Jasper Pittard (soreness) test
Jackson Trengove (foot) TBC

ON THE BLOCK: JACKSON Trengove needs foot surgery and will come out this week. Other than that expect little change at Alberton as the undefeated Power prepare to battle North Melbourne in Hobart.

ON THE CUSP: JASPER Pittard withdrew with soreness but looks a strong chance to return this week. Youngsters Matt Thomas and Sam Colquhoun are also close to breaking into the side.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: THEY'VE got the Power to win and they never give in … even when 41 points down midway through the third quarter. The Power are now five from five with a miniscule injury list and a huge clash against the Roos this week. Win that and North's finals hopes might be history and suddenly Port will be halfway towards a September finish.

Power youngsters Jasper Pittard and Cameron O'Shea react after the final siren. Picture: Reed Sarah Source: The Advertiser

RICHMOND

INJURIES

Shane Tuck (rest) available
Sam Lonergan (hamstring) test
Jake King (soreness) test
Reece Conca (foot) test
Troy Chaplin (calf) TBC

ON THE BLOCK: Brad Helbig struggled in his first hitout for the season in Perth and was subbed off with just six disposals to his name, while his replacement Robin Nahas (three disposals) had little impact after coming on. Matt White kicked the go-ahead goal but could make way with several senior players ready to return, while Ricky Petterd might be nervous after going at just 50 per cent efficiency by foot (including four kick clangers). Nick Vlastuin showed plenty on debut and should get another chance, but captain Trent Cotchin hobbled off in the first half with an ankle injury. He starred in the last quarter but must pull up OK to face the Cats.

ON THE CUSP: Plenty. Steve Morris is available after serving his one-match suspension and Jake King (corked thigh) and Troy Chaplin (calf) are available, along with Shane Tuck who was rested and didn't play at any level on the weekend. The standout in Coburg's 25-point loss to Box Hill was Nathan Foley, who came on at quarter-time and looked a class above, picking up 21 disposals in his second game back after a long layoff following Achilles surgery. Could Damien Hardwick be tempted to start him as the sub against the Cats? Former Roo Aaron Edwards kicked five goals - making it 12 in two weeks - while Matt Dea (26 touches) is also pushing for a senior call-up.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Tigers were unlucky in Perth but now face the prospect of falling back into the pack with a 3-3 record unless they can stop the Cats' unbeaten run. They will have to create some history to do it - Richmond has lost its past eight matches against Geelong by an average of 65 points. Some big decisions looming at match committee.

ST KILDA

INJURIES
Daniel Markworth (ACL) season
James Gwilt (knee) 1-2 weeks
Adam Schneider (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Forward Tom Lee was subbed out after managing only five touches in Wellington, while Ahmed Saad had only one more from a full match and Trent Dennis-Lane is yet to cement a spot in the best 22. Justin Koschitzke kicked the first goal of the match but was rarely sighted after that. Kids Brodie Murdoch, Josh Saunders and Nathan Wright didn't feature prominently on the stats sheet but all showed signs they could be long-term prospects.

ON THE CUSP: Stephen Milne is available after his one-match ban - will Scott Watters back up his harsh words by making him earn a recall in the VFL? The Saints' depth was on show in Sandringham's first win of the VFL season, a 64-point thumping of Werribee. Terry Milera responded to being dropped from the senior side by kicking 6.4 while Farren Ray (27 disposals), Arryn Siposs (24), Tom Ledger (23) and Tom Hickey (two goals) are all ready if called upon. The biggest talking point from the match, however, was the eye-catching performance of athletic forward Spencer White. Taken at No.26 in last year's draft, White has been dubbed the next Lance Franklin and did his best Buddy impression when he sprinted half the length of the ground before kicking a goal on the run - watch it below. White took eight marks and kicked 3.4.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: No respite from the Saints after their brave effort against Sydney, with Collingwood up next on Friday night. St Kilda hasn't beaten the Pies since their 2010 Grand Final draw. After that it's Carlton then Adelaide (away) - if they can't pinch one of those the Saints will be searching for just their second win of the season against the Bulldogs in Round 9.

SYDNEY

INJURIES
Alex Johnson (knee) season
Gary Rohan (leg) indefinite
Rhyce Shaw (abdominal strain) 1 week
Lewis Roberts-Thompson (knee) 3 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: LEWIS Jetta started as the substitute after a quiet start to the season in a sign he's now under a little bit of pressure. Andrejs Everitt was quiet while Sam Reid was yet again held goalless.

ON THE CUSP: JESSE White remains close to coming in, as does Mitch Morton and prized draftee Jed Lamb. Irishman Tommy Walsh is also in the mix for the clash against Brisbane Lions.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: THE Swans should consolidate with another win against the Lions, which would set up a bumper Grand Final rematch against the Hawks next week.

Lewis Jetta in action during the Sydney Swans v Western Bulldogs AFL game at the SCG in Sydney. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

WEST COAST

INJURIES

Matt Priddis (concussion) test
Andrew Embley (foot) 1 week
Nic Naitanui (groin) test
Darren Glass (suspension) 2 weeks
Mark Nicoski (hamstring) 2-3 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: JACOB Brennan was sloppy against the Power, making four clangers and mustering just three kicks. Priddis must face a concussion test this week, and while Daniel Kerr won't be dropped, he needs to lift his output. The worst news is the loss of captain Darren Glass, who been given a two-match ban for rough conduct against Port Adelaide forward Paul Stewart.

ON THE CUSP: THE Eagles retained Glass (but now lose him to suspension) and regained Waters last week, now they should welcome Sharrod Wellingham. He got through the WAFL unscathed, while a clean-shaven Will Schofield is another who could face the Dogs. While Nic Naitanui is a surprise chance to return through the WAFL this week.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: BATTLING at 1-4, the Eagles need to ignite their season this week. A stretch of softer games starts now, while the injury list is finally thinning.

WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES
Nathan Hrovat (calf) available
Ryan Griffen (shoulder) test
Daniel Giansiracusa (shoulder) 1 week
Robert Murphy (calf) 1-2 weeks
Brett Goodes (suspension) 2 weeks
Tom Williams (adductor) 2 weeks
Michael Talia (jaw) 3 weeks
Lin Jong (leg) 6 weeks
Tory Dickson (ankle) 6 weeks
Easton Wood (hamstring) 6 weeks
Shaun Higgins (foot) season

ON THE BLOCK: PAT Veszpremi was subbed out after little impact and could face the axe. Other than him it was an impressive Dogs outfit which fought desperately for four quarters. Goodes has been rubbed out.

ON THE CUSP: AYCE Cordy booted three goals for Williamstown in difficult conditions to remain a forward option. Lukas Markovic battled well against the likes of Chris Dawes and Jack Fitzpatrick, while Dylan Addison was also impressive for the Gulls.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: THE Dogs show real fight more often than not now, which is an impressive trait for such a young side. They had 16 players with less than 50 games' experience against the undefeated Cats and went down by four goals. Some of their stars are close to returning, while games against the Roos, Suns, Saints and Power leading into the bye are all winnable.
 

Geelong captain Joel Selwood was forced from the ground after this round-house punch to the stomach from Bulldog captain Matthew Boyd

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Knee puts Walker out for season

Long term injuries to Cyril Rioli and Tex Walker a huge blow for AFL.

Injured Crows forward Taylor Walker watches from the bench in the match against Carlton. Picture: Michael Dodge. Source: Getty Images

ADELAIDE'S worst fears with Taylor Walker are now confirmed with scans revealing a rupture to the key forward's anterior cruciate ligament to his right knee.

He will miss the rest of the AFL premiership season as he begins a 12-month rehabilitation of the knee.

Walker's injury - so soon after becoming the kingpin of Adelaide's attack after the defection of Kurt Tippett to Sydney - is a major blow to the Crows' hopes of reaching consecutive final series.

Adelaide fell to a 2-3 count at the weekend when Walker was injured in the first term of the 32-point loss to Carlton at the MCG.

Walker will have a traditional knee reconstruction later this week or early next week.

Crows football opeartions chief Phil Harper issued a club statement saying: "The whole club feels devastated for Taylor, but we know how professional he has become in his treatment of injuries.

"He will be given the best possible treatment and rehabilitation program to help him get his knee prepared for the rigours of AFL football."

Earlier today, defender Ben Rutten said he expects the Crows to find enough options to restock a forward zone that was already dealing with the defection of key forward Tippett.

"It is something we are going to have to do ... we have guys (in the SANFL where) Shaun McKernan kicked five goals, Lewis Johnston is in some reasonable form," said Rutten who plays his 200th AFL game on Saturday when Adelaide hosts premiership favourite Hawthorn.

"It is not going to be one guy who is going to replace (Walker). We need more contributors scoring goals. That is the way we are going to have to approach it for however long Tex is out.

"It is disappointing for him and we are going to have to cover it. We saw with Carlton at the weekend the way they can score heavily without having a dominant key forward.

"We rely on big guys in the forward line to compete, so we are going to have to rejig it and find ways to score goals."

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More

Rioli out for two months

Long term injuries to Cyril Rioli and Tex Walker a huge blow for AFL.

Cyril Rioli leaves the field after hurting his hamstring. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN has suffered a huge injury blow with news Cyril Rioli will miss up to two months with a hamstring injury.

Rioli suffered a high grade tear to the lower part of his right hamstring during the fourth quarter of yesterday's thrilling win against North Melbourne.

The Hawks livewire will not require surgery, but the club has already conceded the 23-year-old will not play before its bye in Round 11.

The damage Rioli's absence could cause was no more apparent than yesterday considering, before he went off, he was a huge part of why the out-of-sorts Hawks were able to topple the Roos.

Rioli consulted with surgeons in the city this morning before fronting the media a short time ago to deliver the from news himself.

He said the injury was all the more frustrating considering his previous history with hamstring troubles in both legs.

Rioli, who was walking with a considerable limp today, said he expected his rehabilitation over the next few weeks to involve a lot of rest and swimming.

Rioli, who has a history of hamstring problems, went down clutching his right leg mid-way through the final quarter of the Hawks three-point win over North Melbourne.

He has missed extended runs of games due to hamstring problems over his career, but has not had a major issue since 2011.

That year he missed five games in two stretches while in 2009, his second year at Hawthorn, he missed three matches.

He played a crucial role in Hawthorn's victory yesterday before the injury, kicking four goals.

"He's obviously hurt his hamstring so we'll get that scanned during the week,'' Clarkson said.

"I dare say he'll miss a period of footy whether that's one week or longer we'll just have to wait and see next week.

"But for all those Adelaide Crows supporters, I'm pretty certain that they can be assured that he won't be playing next week.

"We're lucky we had him in the first three and a bit quarters because we would have been in a bit of trouble without him.

"That's obviously happened before, he's a pretty special talent. We needed some special things to occur today to just get us a goal when we really needed it and he did that on four occasions.''

Hawthorn lost the clearances 25 to 44 and had 16 less inside 50s than the Kangaroos yesterday.

Clarkson admitted North "certainly had the measure of our midfield today''

Who sang that song there's a fine line between pleasure and pain?''

Clarkson said: "I tell you what, there's a fine line today. I could have quite easily been sitting here absolutely spewing and perhaps North did deserve to win in terms of all the KPIs that they won during the game.

"To the credit of our guys, we've lost some of those close contests over the journey so it was pleasing to get one today.''

Clarkson said many of his players including Luke Hodge, who had just four touches to half time, and Lance Franklin, who failed to kick a goal, were down.

"There's lots of things to probably analyse about the game,'' Clarkson said.

"(We) probably would analyse it a bit deeper had we lost. If we win, it's probably just move on because our form hasn't been too bad up until this point in time.'

'Clarkson hoped midfielder Brad Sewell (hamstring) would be return to play Adelaide on Saturday.

"That's the thing with some of these soft tissue injuries, we thought it was going to be a one weeker...but it's ended up being three,'' he said.

"You've just got to be patient with them.''

14.57 | 0 komentar | Read More