Gumbleton says no to Dogs

Scott Gumbleton will be at Essendon next season. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON forward Scott Gumbleton has turned down a late contract offer from the Western Bulldogs to stay at Windy Hill.

The injury-cursed key forward - originally recruited with pick 2 in the 2006 draft - has played 28 matches, including six this season.

After being offered just a one-year deal by Essendon, Gumbleton was spoken to by at least three clubs - Melbourne, Fremantle and the Bulldogs.

Gumbleton met Bulldogs officials on Monday and passed medical tests on his troublesome back.

The Dockers also completed a medical assessment.

The Bulldogs tabled a two-year deal to Gumbleton, but late today he has committed to the Bombers.

It is believed his new contract with Essendon includes an option for a second season.

"The club has stuck by me with the injuries I have had and I am really passionate about the Essendon football club," Gumbleton said in a statement released by the Bombers at 5.30pm today.

"While there were opportunities elsewhere, I have lots of good mates at the club and I am really confident in the direction that the team is heading."

Free agency compo picks revealed

Coach James Hird said Gumbleton was always a required player.

"We are really pleased that Scott has re-signed with the club. He a fantastic clubman and a great teammate and we look forward to him having a big pre-season campaign," he said.

Gumbleton's manager Paul Connors said it had been an "agonising decision" but "loyalty was Scott's prime motivator."

Department of Trades

The Bulldogs are still looking for an experienced key forward after also missing out on ex-Magpie Chris Dawes. The Dogs have, however, won the race for young Eagles midfielder Koby Stevens.

Essendon is still waiting on a decision from ruckman David Hille, who has also been offered a one-year contract.

The Bombers have signed free agent Brendon Goddard and traded Angus Monfries to Port Adelaide, but will have to make more cuts to their list before next month's draft.

Meanwhile, North Melbourne forward Lachie Hansen, recruited with the pick after Gumbleton in 2006, has today re-signed with the Kangaroos after also being discussed in trade talks.

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Tigers send Graham to Crows

Richmond ruckman Angus Graham is set to sign a two-year deal with Adelaide. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

RICHMOND has sealed a deal to gain 10 spots in the draft in exchange for ruckman Angus Graham.

In effect, the Tigers get rid of Graham and his salary and improve their draft position from pick 50 to pick 40.

Graham is on his way to provide back-up for Sam Jacobs at Adelaide after Crows officials signed off on the deal at Punt Rd today.

"We would like to thank Angus for his contribution to the Richmond Football Club, and wish him all the best with his new opportunity at Adelaide," Tigers football manager Craig Cameron said.

"By gaining selection 40 in the draft, we are in a strong position to add some young talent to our list, which will complement the arrival of Chris Knights and Troy Chaplin in the free agency period."

Adelaide list manager David Noble said Graham's arrival would boost the club's ruck stocks.

"Angus has played some high-level football at Richmond and is very excited at the opportunity to move interstate and join a club which is in an exciting phase, playing finals football," Noble said.

While there has been speculation Richmond will now look for another ruckman, they will not trade for or use a pick in the national draft as a back-up for Ivan Maric.

Instead, they might consider a mature-aged replacement in the rookie draft as insurance, given they hope Tom Derickx and Tyrone Vickery will help Maric this year.
 

Join the live trades chat here

The rookie draft is the only place the Tigers would consider re-recruiting former midfielder David Rodan, who has been delisted by Port Adelaide.

The Graham deal adds another bizarre twist to the Kurt Tippett saga.

Every deal at Department of Trades

The move throws into question the need to take ruckman-forward Jesse White from Sydney in a trade for Tippett.

A swap of the Swans' first-round draft pick (currently No.22) and White for Tippett was expected to be signed off today.

That hasn't happened but the Crows say they haven't ruled out the deal.

"He is still in the mix," Adelaide football manager Phil Harper said of White.

To claim both White and Graham, Adelaide will have to unload one of its current players to meet AFL rules of having three picks in the national draft.

Graham, 25, played just one AFL game this season as he fell behind former Crow Ivan Maric in the Tiger line-up.

The 201cm ruckman has played 48 matches since making his debut i n2007.

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Hawks pair worth pick 66

St Kilda was the biggest winner, scoring a first-round pick for losing Brendon Goddard to Essendon. Picture: Jon Hargest Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN has received no compensation for losing Tom Murphy to Gold Coast and only a third-round pick for the defection of Clinton Young to Collingwood.

Murphy, Shannon Byrnes (Geelong) and Chris Knights (Adelaide) were all deemed not worthy of compensation picks by the AFL.

The Hawks gained just pick 66 for their pair of losses, while the Saints and Port were the only clubs to rejoice the AFL's announcement tonight.

FULL AFL DRAFT ORDER BELOW

St Kilda picked up pick 13 for Goddard's move to Essendon, while Port Adelaide snared picks 30 and 31 for the loss of Troy Chaplin (Port Adelaide) and Danyle Pearce (Fremantle).

West Coast was handed pick 62 for Lynch's move to the Pies, while Melbourne was given just pick 49 despite losing Jared Rivers and Brent Moloney.

But with the free agency deadline passed, several players are left stranded without homes, including Carlton's Bret Thornton and Jordan Russell.

See every deal at Department of Trades

Port Adelaide midfielder Steven Salopek and St Kilda's Raph Clarke are also without a new home and remain unsigned by their existing clubs.

Those players remain in limbo. They can either be re-signed at their current homes or delisted, which would make them delisted free agents as of November 1.

Delisted free agents are given a 12-day window to sign at the club of their choice.

Winners and losers of trade month so far

FREE AGENCY FALLOUT
What compensation your club received

New recruit to Richmond Troy Chaplin Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE
Gained: Shannon Byrnes
Lost: Brent Moloney, Jared Rivers
Compo: Third-round pick (pick 49)

GEELONG
Gained: Jared Rivers
Lost: Shannon Byrnes
Compo: None

PORT ADELAIDE
Gained: Nil
Lost: Troy Chaplin, Danyle Pearce
Compo: Two second-round picks (picks 30, 31)

HAWTHORN
Gained: Nil
Lost: Tom Murphy, Clinton Young
Compo: Third-round pick (pick 66)

ADELAIDE
Gained: Nil
Lost: Chris Knights
Compo: None

WEST COAST
Gained: Nil
Lost: Quinten Lynch
Compo: Third-round pick (pick 62)

Geelong recruits Jared Rivers and Hamish McIntosh at Simonds Stadium Picture: Glenn Ferguson Source: Herald Sun

FULL AFL DRAFT ORDER

FIRST ROUND:

1. Greater Western Sydney
2. Greater Western Sydney
3. Greater Western Sydney
4. Melbourne
5. Western Bulldogs
6. Western Bulldogs
7. Port Adelaide
8. Brisbane Lions
9. Richmond
10. Essendon (father-son Joe Daniher)
11. Carlton
12. Greater Western Sydney
13. St Kilda (Goddard compensation)
14. Greater Western Sydney
15. North Melbourne
16. Geelong
17. Fremantle
18. Collingwood
19. Collingwood
20. Adelaide
21. Collingwood
22. Western Bulldogs
23. Sydney Swans

YOUR CLUB'S DRAFT PICKS

ADELAIDE: 20, 54, 64, 83, 101, 119, 137

BRISBANE: 8, 24, 33, 53, 73, 91, 109, 127

CARLTON: 11, 36, 56, 76, 104, 112, 130

COLLINGWOOD: 18, 19, 21, 42, 48, 82, 100, 118, 136

ESSENDON: 10 (Joe Daniher), 36, 52, 55, 75, 93, 111, 129

FREMANTLE: 17, 40, 60, 80, 98, 116, 134

GEELONG: 16, 79, 97, 115, 133

GOLD COAST: 26, 47, 59, 87, 105, 123

GWS GIANTS: 1, 2, 3, 13, 14, 68, 86, 104, 122

HAWTHORN: 28, 65, 66, 84, 102, 120, 138

MELBOURNE: 4, 27 (Jack Viney), 49, 63, 70, 88, 106, 124

NORTH MELBOURNE: 15, 38, 39, 58, 78, 96, 114, 132

PORT ADELAIDE: 7, 29, 30, 31, 72, 90, 108, 126

RICHMOND: 9, 32, 34, 43, 74, 92, 110, 128

ST KILDA: 13, 37, 46, 57, 77, 95, 113, 131

SYDNEY: 22, 45, 67, 85, 103, 121, 139

WEST COAST: 41, 61, 62, 81, 99, 117, 135

WESTERN BULLDOGS: 5, 6, 22, 44, 50 (Lachie Hunter), 51, 71, 87, 109, 125

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Hawk anger at being 'pick-pocketed'

Hawthorn is angry at the poor compensation it has received for losing Clinton Young to Collingwood. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

A FURIOUS Hawthorn is exploring its appeal options after claiming it was "pick-pocketed" by free agency compensation.

The Hawks were stunned to receive only a third-round pick (No.66) to compensate for the loss of Clinton Young to Collingwood.

They believe Young would not last beyond pick No.30 if he was in the national draft.

"I don't know if anyone could look you in the eye and say this is a just system," Hawthorn football manager Mark Evans told the Herald Sun.

"It is like we've been pick-pocketed and somebody has put an old $2 scratchy ticket back in our pocket."

On top of losing the talented Young, Hawthorn also lost free agent Thomas Murphy to Gold Coast without any compensation.

Evans said the Hawks would explore their options for appeal, even though the AFL did not offer much hope.

"We were told it is what it is," Evans said.

Melbourne also received paltry compensation for losing experienced free agents Brent Moloney and Jared Rivers.

The Demons lost 295 games of experience and received just a third-round pick (No.49) in return.

See every deal at Department of Trades

Snaring Shannon Byrnes from Geelong as a free agent watered down the Demons' compensation, but it was thought they would receive at least a second round pick for Moloney and Rivers.

Given the size of new contracts was a key part of the compensation formula, it is clear Rivers (to Geelong) and Moloney (to Brisbane Lions) are both on modest deals at their new clubs.

The Demons fared extremely well to jag two first round picks for losing Tom Scully to GWS under expansion rules, but there was no such extravagance this time.

The ruling has raised eyebrows at the Demons, but list manager Tim Harrington refused to comment.

Hawthorn also appeared to be short-changed under the compensation deal, determined mainly by league salary cap watchdog Ken Wood.

In another surprise, Adelaide received nothing for losing long-kicking forward Chris Knights to Richmond.

The AFL has moved to clarify that a club was not automatically entitled to compensation for the loss of a player.

As expected, St Kilda received a first-round pick (No.13) for losing Brendan Goddard.

Winners and losers of trade month so far

But the biggest winner was Port Adelaide, which gained two second round picks (No.30 and No.31) to sweeten the loss of Troy Chaplin (Richmond) and Danyle Pearce (Fremantle).

FREE AGENCY FALLOUT

What compensation your club received

MELBOURNE

Gained: Shannon Byrnes

Lost: Brent Moloney, Jared Rivers

Compo: Third-round pick (pick 49)

GEELONG

Gained: Jared Rivers

Lost: Shannon Byrnes

Compo: None

PORT ADELAIDE

Gained: Nil

Lost: Troy Chaplin, Danyle Pearce

Compo: Two second-round picks (picks 30, 31)

HAWTHORN

Gained: Nil

Lost: Tom Murphy, Clinton Young

Compo: Third-round pick (pick 66)

ADELAIDE

Gained: Nil

Lost: Chris Knights

Compo: None

WEST COAST

Gained: Nil

Lost: Quinten Lynch

Compo: Third-round pick (pick 62)

FULL AFL DRAFT ORDER

FIRST ROUND:

1. Greater Western Sydney

2. Greater Western Sydney

3. Greater Western Sydney

4. Melbourne

5. Western Bulldogs

6. Western Bulldogs

7. Port Adelaide

8. Brisbane Lions

9. Richmond

10. Essendon (father-son Joe Daniher)

11. Carlton

12. Greater Western Sydney

13. St Kilda (Goddard compensation)

14. Greater Western Sydney

15. North Melbourne

16. Geelong

17. Fremantle

18. Collingwood

19. Collingwood

20. Adelaide

21. Collingwood

22. Western Bulldogs

23. Sydney Swans

YOUR CLUB'S DRAFT PICKS

ADELAIDE: 20, 54, 64, 83, 101, 119, 137

BRISBANE: 8, 24, 33, 53, 73, 91, 109, 127

CARLTON: 11, 36, 56, 76, 104, 112, 130

COLLINGWOOD: 18, 19, 21, 42, 48, 82, 100, 118, 136

ESSENDON: 10 (Joe Daniher), 36, 52, 55, 75, 93, 111, 129

FREMANTLE: 17, 40, 60, 80, 98, 116, 134

GEELONG: 16, 79, 97, 115, 133

GOLD COAST: 26, 47, 59, 87, 105, 123

GWS GIANTS: 1, 2, 3, 13, 14, 68, 86, 104, 122

HAWTHORN: 28, 65, 66, 84, 102, 120, 138

MELBOURNE: 4, 27 (Jack Viney), 49, 63, 70, 88, 106, 124

NORTH MELBOURNE: 15, 38, 39, 58, 78, 96, 114, 132

PORT ADELAIDE: 7, 29, 30, 31, 72, 90, 108, 126

RICHMOND: 9, 32, 34, 43, 74, 92, 110, 128

ST KILDA: 13, 37, 46, 57, 77, 95, 113, 131

SYDNEY: 22, 45, 67, 85, 103, 121, 139

WEST COAST: 41, 61, 62, 81, 99, 117, 135

WESTERN BULLDOGS: 5, 6, 22, 44, 50 (Lachie Hunter), 51, 71, 87, 109, 125

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Tiger signs new deal

David Astbury celebtrates a Tigers goal. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

KEY-position prospect David Astbury has returned Richmond's faith by signing a two-year contract extension.

Astbury, 21, has shown promise at both ends of the ground since making his debut in 2010.

But his development was stalled by a serious knee injury midway through 2011 that kept him out of action until the final two matches of this season.

"We're very pleased to see Dave re-committing to the club," Richmond football manager Craig Cameron said today.

"He is highly regarded, not only for his football ability, but also his excellent character.

"After a bad run with injury, he's now fit and really looking forward to a full pre-season.

"We expect him to come on in leaps and bounds throughout 2013."

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The winners and losers so far

Hamish McIntosh has joined the Cats, along with Josh Caddy and Jared Rivers. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

SEE exactly what your club has gained and lost in the off-season in our club-by-club guide and vote on the big winners and losers so far.

2012 Trade and Free Agency period

ADELAIDE
IN: -
OUT: Chris Knights (Richmond)
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Jesse White (Sydney)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Kurt Tippett
DRAFT PICKS: 19, 40, 59, 77, 95, 113, 131

BRISBANE
IN: Brent Moloney (Melbourne)
OUT:
STILL COMING (MAYBE):
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Pat Karnezis
DRAFT PICKS: 8, 23, 30, 49, 67, 85, 103, 121

CARLTON
IN: -
OUT: -
STILL COMING (MAYBE): -
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Jordan Russell, Bret Thornton
DRAFT PICKS: 11, 33, 52, 70, 88, 106, 124

COLLINGWOOD
IN: Quinten Lynch (West Coast)

OUT: Chris Dawes (Melbourne), Sharrod Wellingham (West Coast), draft pick 58
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Stefan Martin (Melbourne)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): -
DRAFT PICKS: 17, 18, 20, 39, 45, 76, 94, 112, 130

ESSENDON
IN: Brendon Goddard (St Kilda), Joe Daniher (father-son), draft pick 48
OUT: Angus Monfries (Port Adelaide), draft pick 10
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Koby Stevens (West Coast)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Scott Gumbleton
DRAFT PICKS: 10, 32, 48, 51, 69, 87, 105, 123

FREMANTLE
IN: Danyle Pearce
OUT: -
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Scott Gumbleton (Essendon)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): -
DRAFT PICKS: 16, 37, 56, 74, 92, 110, 128

*Adelaide, Geelong, Hawthorn, Melbourne, Port Adelaide, St Kilda and West Coast will also receive compensation picks for players lost in free agency*

GEELONG
IN: Josh Caddy (Gold Coast), Jared Rivers (Melbourne), Hamish McIntosh (North Melbourne)
OUT: Shannon Byrnes (Melbourne), Ablett compensation pick, pick 36, 55
STILL COMING (MAYBE): -
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Mitch Brown, Tom Gillies
DRAFT PICKS: 15, 55, 73, 91, 109

Carlton v Melbourne. MCG. Jared Rivers clears by hand Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

GOLD COAST
IN: Tom Murphy (Hawthorn), Jack Martin (mini-draft), Ablett compo pick, draft pick 55
OUT: Josh Caddy (Geelong), draft pick 2, 63
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Stephen Gilham (Hawthorn)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Tom Hickey, Taylor Hine, Josh Toy
DRAFT PICKS: 25, 44, 81, 99, 117

GWS GIANTS
IN: Draft picks 2, 3, 12, 13, 63
OUT: Draft picks 20, 24, 43
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Bret Thornton (Carlton)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): -
DRAFT PICKS: 1, 2, 3, 12, 13, 62, 63, 80, 98, 116

HAWTHORN
IN: Brian Lake (Western Bulldogs), draft pick 27
OUT: Tom Murphy (Gold Coast), draft picks 21, 41
STILL COMING (MAYBE): -
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Clinton Young
DRAFT PICKS: 27, 60, 78, 96, 114, 132

New Hawthorn signing Brian Lake is all smiles at a press conference with Hawks coach Alistair Clarkson on Tuesday morning. Picture: Bronwyn Ward Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE
IN: Chris Dawes (Collingwood), Shannon Byrnes (Geelong), Jack Viney (father-son pick), Jesse Hogan (via 17yo mini-draft), Dom Barry, draft pick 58
OUT: Jared Rivers (Geelong), Brent Moloney (Brisbane), draft picks 3, 13, 26, 45
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Scott Gumbleton, Cam Pederson
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Jordan Gysberts, Cale Morton, Stefan Martin
DRAFT PICKS: 4, 58, 64, 82, 100, 118

*Draft picks are subject to change after compensation picks are awarded by the AFL*

Melbourne training at Gosch's Paddock. Jack Viney Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

NORTH MELBOURNE
IN: Draft pick 36
OUT: Hamish McIntosh (Geelong)
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Ben Jacobs (Port Adelaide)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Cam Pedersen, Matt Campbell, Cruize Garlett
DRAFT PICKS: 14, 35, 36, 54, 72, 90, 108, 126

PORT ADELAIDE
IN: Angus Monfries
OUT: Danyle Pearce (Fremantle), Troy Chaplin (Richmond), draft pick 48
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Stephen Gilham (Hawthorn)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Ben Jacobs
DRAFT PICKS: 7, 28, 66, 84, 102, 120

RICHMOND
IN: Chris Knights (Adelaide), Troy Chaplin (Port Adelaide)
OUT: -
STILL COMING (MAYBE): David Rodan (Port Adelaide), Matt Thomas (Port Adelaide)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): -
DRAFT PICKS: 9, 29, 31, 50, 68, 86, 104, 122

ST KILDA
IN: Tom Lee (Claremont), draft picks 24, 43
OUT: Brendon Goddard (Essendon), draft pick 12
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Tom Hickey (Gold Coast), Koby Stevens (West Coast)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Jamie Cripps
DRAFT PICKS: 24, 34, 43, 53, 71, 89, 107, 125

Geelong are now looking at St Kilda star Brendon Goddard. Source: Herald Sun

SYDNEY
IN: -
OUT: -
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Kurt Tippett (Adelaide)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Jesse White
DRAFT PICKS: 22, 42, 61, 79, 97, 115, 133

WEST COAST
IN: Sharrod Wellingham (Collingwood)
OUT: Quinten Lynch (Collingwood), draft pick 17
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Jamie Cripps (St Kilda)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Koby Stevens
DRAFT PICKS: 38, 57, 75, 93, 111, 129

WESTERN BULLDOGS
IN: Lachie Hunter (father-son), draft picks 21, 41
OUT: Brian Lake, draft picks 27, 46
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Scott Gumbleton, Koby Stevens
STILL GOING (MAYBE): -
DRAFT PICKS: 5, 6, 21, 41, 47, 65, 83, 101, 119

Western Bulldogs father-son selection Lachlan Hunter will his dad Mark at Etihad Stadium today. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

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Tippett deal "a joke"

Sydney ruckman Jesse White could end up being a direct swap for Kurt Tippett. Picture: Phil Hillyard. Source: The Daily Telegraph

KURT Tippett's move to Sydney is hours away from being sealed.

And if - as expected - the Crows get the Swans' first-round draft pick (No. 22) and out-of-favour forward-ruckman Jesse White, the trade will carry the tag of a "joke'' with former Richmond and Western Bulldogs coach Terry Wallace.

White, who struggled for game time in Sydney in the past two seasons, travelled to Adelaide today for a medical and a meeting with Crows coach Brenton Sanderson, who returns home today after holidaying in the US.

"Adelaide will be ripped off,'' Wallace said on AFL Trade Radio today.

Inaugural Crows coach Graham Cornes has joined the smashing of the prospective trade, saying it is "pathetic".

"Adelaide wants to be seen as a strong club, but it has shown no strength - it has been led by the nose in negotiations," Cornes said on Radio FIVEaa.

"They should stand firm and have Tippett go to the draft rather than roll over."

Winners and losers of trade month so far

But Adelaide's position is not strong in this trade.

If the Crows do not accept Sydney's offer by next Friday's trade deadline, Tippett will fall into the draft pool where Adelaide gets no compensation and Sydney can virtually guarantee drafting the Queenslander by having Tippett nominate a $1 million-a-year salary.

No other AFL clubs can contemplate paying Tippett such a fee.

Department of Trades

Swans boss Andrew Ireland said last night the negotiations to bring Tippett to the Harbour City were progressing well.

"We think it's getting closer and hope there is some news by the end of the week," Ireland said.

"David Noble (Crows list manager) and Kinnear Beatson (Swans list manager) have been working through the issues and there are some things that need to be ticked off.

"Brenton Sanderson arrives back in Adelaide tomorrow and that will allow some of the things that need to be finalised to be done."

Sydney bound? Kurt Tippett has spoke in glowing terms of the Sydney Swans football culture. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

THE SWANS will play the first two matches of their premiership defence in Sydney, starting with an ANZ Stadium derby against the GWS Giants.

The Round 1 match will be a Giants' home game, with the Swans to unfurl their premiership flag at the SCG in Round 2 against an unknown opponent.

The return derby against GWS will be played at the SCG.

Yesterday, the AFL also revealed the top four teams from 2012 (Sydney, Hawthorn, Collingwood, Adelaide) would all only play the bottom four teams of 2012 (Greater Western Sydney, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Western Bulldogs) on one occasion in 2013, with the single exception of the Swans and Giants' cross-town rivalry.

The 10 non-finalists from 2012 will all be scheduled to have a maximum of two return meetings with top eight sides from 2012.

- with Jon Ralph, Neil Cordy

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North score Pie blockbuster

North Melbourne will host Collingwood at Etihad Stadium in Round 1 next year. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

THE AFL has released its full Round 1 fixture for next year with North Melbourne handed a blockbuster opening against Collingwood.

The opening round, which will be played over two weekends, will also include a western derby and a Monday showdown between bitter rivals Hawthorn and Geelong.

Adelaide and Essendon will open the 2013 season on the Friday night at AAMI Stadium.

They have bumped Richmond and Carlton, who will clash at the MCG on the Thursday night in the second week of the split round.

It will be the first game in Melbourne for the season.

The Kangaroos will be rubbing their hands together after scoring a home game against Collingwood at Etihad Stadium on Sunday, March 31.

St Kilda will head north to the Gold Coast while the Bulldogs host the Brisbane Lions at Etihad Stadium.

Premiers Sydney will open their account with a cross-town derby against the GWS Giants.

While forward Chris Dawes will play his first game for Melbourne against Port Adelaide at the MCG.

ROUND 1, 2013

Friday, March 22
Adelaide v Essendon at AAMI Stadium

Saturday, March 23
Fremantle v West Coast at Patersons Stadium

Thursday, March 28
Carlton v Richmond at the MCG

Saturday, March 30
Western Bulldogs v Brisbane Lions at Etihad Stadium
Gold Coast v St Kilda at Metricon Stadium
Greater Western Sydney v Sydney Swans at ANZ STadium

Sunday, March 31
Melbourne v Port Adelaide at the MCG
North Melbourne v COllingwood at Etihad Stadium

Monday, April 1
Hawthorn v Geelong at the MCG

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Rule changes leave clubs in limbo

The substitute will remain, while it is expected a cap on interchanges will be introduced for the 2014 season. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

CLUBS are growing frustrated at the constant rule changes the AFL is implementing, forcing them to change their drafting and list management strategies on the fly.

The AFL yesterday changed two rules affecting ruckmen, opting to penalise big men who initiate contact before the ball leaves the umpire's hand at stoppages.

The league also hinted it would cap interchange rotations at 80 for the 2014 season after trialling it in next season's NAB Cup.

One club's national recruiting manager said the radical and repeated changes were making the game - and the type of athletes required - impossible to predict.

"We need to know if (the bench rules) are going to stay in for 2-3 years or is it going to change again," he told SuperFooty.

Congestions like under 9s: KB

"That's the main thing. We're looking four years in advance when drafting these kids, so that's the challenge.

"The game changes enough by itself without having many rule changes as significant as (a cap on rotations)."

Another club said its recruiting division had already met with conditioning staff to discuss drafting strategies in anticipation of an interchange cap.

A recruiter confirmed that of all the events at the AFL draft combine, the endurance tests were now the most telling.

"We already know if they can play the game or not, so I get the most out of the (beep test and 3km trial)," he said.

Asked if an interchange cap of 80 would kill off big, cumbersome ruckman, the recruiter said: "Yeah, they're in trouble.

"You'd want to be having a major impact with your hitouts to advantage and your stuff around the ground.

"If they can't run endurance-wise then you have to take that into account.

Bounce to get the toss

"If they're a standout player then you hope in a full-time system their running capacity can be improved, so it's just finding that balance."

If the interchange cap is introduced in 2014 it would suit Melbourne's latest recruits.

The Dees secured 17-year-old power forward Jesse Hogan and explosive wingman Dom Barry last week, with both featuring high in the beep test and 3km trial.

Barry finished third in the run, while both players scored 14-2s in the beep, ranking them equal ninth.

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SuperCoach 2013 - Have your say

Injuries to star players including Hawk Lance Franklin caused big headaches for SuperCoaches in 2012. Source: Herald Sun

THE AFL has settled on its new rules for 2013 - here's your chance to have a say on possible changes to SuperCoach for next season.

The AFL's Laws of the Game committee spent months compiling recommendations for changes to the rules, most of which were accepted by the league yesterday.

Meanwhile, planning is underway to make next year's SuperCoach competition the biggest and best ever.

Fans often feel left out of the AFL's decision-making process - but here is your chance to have a say in potential changes to Australia's biggest fantasy sports game.

One innovation likely for 2013 is a new and improved version of SuperCoach Pro - a new game that you can play for free alongside your traditional SuperCoach side.

Already hugely popular in major leagues such as the NFL and NBA, the draft-style game is focussed on head-to-head competition with your mates including on a league draft in which each player can be selected only once - if you take Gary Ablett with your first draft pick, none of your mates can select him.

The draft-style game would include a host of other innovations including mid-year trade deals with other players in your league.

In the main game, the boffins at SuperCoach HQ are closely examining the number of trades each team will have next season.

Many coaches were caught short during the three-week bye period in 2012, which is set to be repeated in the 2013 fixture, while injuries to key players forced many to use up their trades far earlier than they would have liked.

Another growing frustration for SuperCoaches is the large number of late team changes.

Forcing clubs to tell the truth seems a long shot, so options to ease the stress for SuperCoaches include an extra emergency on the bench to cover for late withdrawals, and a rolling lockout all weekend for every round of the season.

A partial rolling lockout is already in place for rounds featuring Thursday matches, and extending it would allow coaches to change their side up to the bounce of every match across the weekend - with players who have already taken the field progressively off-limits.

Tell us what changes you would like to see by voting in the polls and leaving a comment below.
 

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Dawes to keep Watts in defence

Jack Watts is likely to spend more time in defence next season. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

Chris Dawes has been traded from Collingwood to Melbourne. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

NEW Melbourne signing Chris Dawes will play as a second tall target option to Mitch Clark.

Coach Mark Neeld said the pair had been recruited specifically as the cornerstones of the Demons' forward set-up.

And there could be more tall forwards to come as Neeld said the Demons would continue to talk with possible trade targets Scott Gumbleton and Cameron Pederson, but would be unlikely to recruit both.

He said the arrival of Dawes - picked up in a trade deal with Collingwood that cost the Demons picks 20 and 45 in the draft - was likely to see Jack Watts spending more time in defence.

"It's terrific for Mitch Clark (recruited from Brisbane last season) and the rest of the team to have a second big body down there,'' Neeld said today.

"Dawesy has been brought in to play as a key forward. He won't be doing the 'key forward who goes into the ruck' role with us. We think he's really suited to play as a key forward.''

Neeld said the young Demons will benefit from the premiership experience of Dawes and Geelong forward Shannon Byrnes.

"We talk about the long-term aspect that Chris brings to the club. He's 24 and he also brings a lot of experience coming out of a good culture, the way the Pies go about it, the way they play and the way they train,'' he said.

"He has also managed to play in the last five finals series. Include the drawn Grand Final, he has played in three Grand Finals and cracked it for a flag. We're certainly not underestimated what that brings to our group.

"And we've added Shannon Byrnes as well. Between them, there's a lot of experience at great clubs and the knowledge they can pass on to our boys of what it's like to play at the pointy end.''

Department of Trades

Neeld and assistant coach Leigh Brown, both key members of Collingwood's 2010 premiership, had a chat at Dawes' home recently to convince him that his future was with Melbourne.

"We've got a fair handle on the type of person he is and what he brings to our club,'' the coach said.

"I would describe Dawesy as a really solid citizen. He's very serious about his footy, he's very intelligent, he's studying law off the field. He's an aggressive trainer and plays an aggressive brand of footy. All the things that he wants.

"We did all those medical checks that you need to do (on Dawes' knee). He's already running, so he's over that. He has done the little bit of rehab that you need to do.''

Neeld said the inclusion of Dawes and Clark's recovery from an ankle injury will allow them to continue to develop Watts as part of the backline set-up.

And he's confident the Demons have the midfield to get quick and clean delivery to the big forwards.

"Mitch wasn't playing and we had half our backline playing in the forward line for various reasons,'' Neeld said.

"For the boys in the midfield, like (Jack) Grimes and (Jack) Trengove and (Nathan) Jones, to look up and see two big targets, that's the way we want to play.''

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Dogs 'as important as GWS'

Western Bulldogs president David Smorgon announces he will hand over power to former club president Peter Gordon in a press conference at Whitten Oval. Picture: Stuart Walmsley Source: Herald Sun

NEW Western Bulldogs president Peter Gordon says he inherits a club in a much better position than when he left - and which now has the full support of the AFL.

As revealed exclusively on SuperFooty last night, David Smorgon's 17-year reign will end at the club's annual general meeting in December.

In a shock move, Smorgon, 65, last night agreed to hand power to former club president Gordon for the 2013 season.

Smorgon took over the top job at Whitten Oval in 1996 - from anti-merger hero Gordon.

Smorgon is standing down a year earlier than planned after he was swayed by a succession report tabled at a lengthy Bulldogs board meeting yesterday.

The shake-up, to be confirmed by the club today, will see wealthy Dogs director Susan Alberti named as vice-president.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank each and everyone that has been involved with the Bulldogs and assisted the Bulldogs during my time here. It's been a real team effort," Smorgon said today.

"Being a part of the red, white and blue has been a central part of my life – and while it is sad to depart – I do so with confidence that the Bulldogs have never been better placed to seize the opportunities and tackle the challenges that lay ahead".

Smorgon said he was "thrilled" the board had endorsed Gordon as the preferred candidate to succeed him as president.

"Peter Gordon is one of Australia's best known and respected lawyers and a man with a track record of success in whatever he gets involved in," Smorgon said.

"He is a man with great and innovative ideas looking at a fresh approach and who is going to add on to the base that has been built.

"We know we have got the right man and we have got a man whose got the track record, the credentials and the passion and love for this club to do a great job'".

Western Bulldogs president David Smorgon is confident coach Brendan McCartney can rebuild the club. Picture: Ellen Smith Source: Herald Sun

Gordon said he inherited a club in a much stronger position than when he handed over power to Smorgon in 1996 - "and of course it's in an exponentially better position than it was in 1989".

Gordon was encouraged by what he heard from AFL chairman Mike Fitzpatrick, CEO Andrew Demetriou and chief operating officer Gillon McLachlan during a meeting today.

"The irony of it was not lost on me that I was welcomed into the AFL headquarters by a management that not only values and recognises the Western Bulldogs football club franchise, but also its vital importance to the competition as a whole - in particular because of its roots and its work in the western suburbs of Melbourne,'' said Gordon, the director of Gordon Legal.

"And that was not a philosophy, frankly, that seemed to be a priority 25 years ago.

"In a sense we are greater western Melbourne and greater western Melbourne is as important to the future of the competition as (new franchise) Greater Western Sydney.''

Gordon said he wanted to play a central role in how the AFL dealt with the growing gap between rich and poor clubs.

Gordon will speak further with outspoken former player and now successful restaurateur Paul Dimattina in coming weeks about his bid for a seat on the board.

Dimattina had been an increasingly vocal critic of Smorgon in recent years, but Gordon said he came into the job with an open mind.

"All Bulldogs will be welcomed back to the kennel,'' Gordon said.

"And all Bulldogs will be asked, and in some ways expected, to contribute what they can.''

Western Bulldogs President David Smorgon (centre) with past presidents Nick Columb (left) and Peter Gordon. Picture: Michael Dodge Source: Herald Sun

Smorgon will stand down from the board at the club's annual general meeting on December 20.

Bulldogs members will then be asked to vote Gordon on to the board, which would confirm his presidency.

A Bulldogs board committee, headed by outgoing Dogs director Ian Veal, has spent several months exploring succession options for the popular Smorgon.

The committee recently settled on the pairing of Gordon and Alberti, a recommendation approved by the board.

The quality of the candidates was enough to convince Smorgon that the time was right to step aside.

Gordon, a successful lawyer, became Bulldogs president in 1989 after leading the fight against a merger with Fitzroy.

His board stood aside for the Smorgon administration in 1996.

Smorgon is the second-longest serving president in the AFL behind Sydney Swans chairman Richard Colless.

 - with AAP

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No easy ride for top teams

The easy ride is over for the good teams, except the Sydney Swans who will get to meet the GWS Giants twice in 2013. Picture: Chris Scott Source: Herald Sun

THE top four teams from 2012 will all play the bottom teams only once next season, the AFL has announced.

The AFL, who have been publicly drip feeding information about next year's fixture, revealed the decision tonight along with some other new initiatives for 2013.

It revealed that:

1.The top four teams from 2012 (Sydney Swans, Hawthorn, Collingwood, Adelaide Crows) would all only play the bottom four teams of 2012 (Greater Western Sydney Giants, Gold Coast Suns, Melbourne, Western Bulldogs) on one occasion in 2013, with the single exception of the Swans/Giants cross-town rivalry;

2.The 10 non-finalists from 2012 will all be scheduled to have a maximum of two return meetings with top eight sides from 2012.

3. Where possible the eight finalists from 2012 will all be programmed to have a maximum of two return meetings with bottom-10 sides from 2012.

"A standard round, as part of our agreement with the Seven Network and Foxtel/FOX FOOTY, will continue to feature one Friday night match, two Saturday afternoon matches, one Saturday twilight match, two Saturday night matches, one early Sunday match, one Sunday afternoon match and one Sunday twilight match," AFL executive Simon Lethlean said.
 
The AFL will play four Thursday matches in 2013 across Round One, Anzac Day Round (two matches on Thursday April 25) and Round 14, along with two Monday night matches in Round Seven (Melbourne) and Round 10 (Perth) respectively.

The South Australian (Port Adelaide) and West Australian (West Coast) clubs that travelled in round 23, 2012, will be fixtured to be at home in the final round in 2013.

While the final round will again be listed as a 'floating round', to enable the best-possible fixture options for the AFL in the lead-up to finals.
 
"For the period where clubs have their byes between rounds 11-13, the AFL will again schedule three rounds of six matches to provide as much continuity as possible for fans, and with the goal of a team from each state competing in a match in each week through that period," Lethlean said.

Lethlean said it was expected the fixture would be completed by the end of October.

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Dawes the Demon

Bye Bucks- Forward Chris Dawes is now a Demon. Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE has landed Collingwood key forward Chris Dawes in a trade deal struck tonight.

The paperwork will be lodged with the AFL tomorrow after the Dees and Magpies agreed on a swap of picks.

Melbourne has agreed to hand over pick No.20 and No.45 to the Magpies.

Completing the deal, the Magpies will hand their pick No.58 to the Demons.

More to come...

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WAFC to appoint coaching chief

WA director of football Grant Dorrington. Picture: Richard Polden. Source: PerthNow

THE WA Football Commission is set to appoint a coaching group manager to ensure its pathway system remains competitive.

Grant Dorrington, the WAFC's director of pathways and competitions, said the role would be filled by an experienced senior official, with the likes of former Subiaco and state coach Chris Waterman and four-time WAFL premiership coach John Dimmer floated as options.

It is an attempt to fill the void left by former WAFC high performance and State 16s coach Rob Wiley, whose invaluable guidance was lost from the state body when the former Richmond premiership player was last month picked up by Carlton as the Blues' director of coaching and development.

The appointment plan was the result of a meeting with key stakeholders in the WA football system, including members from West Coast and Fremantle, the WAFL clubs, women's football and the AFL.

Dorrington likened the role to a "chairman of selectors for coaches", ensuring they "fit in to what's best for WA footy, not what they think they want to do".

He said the position would initially be part-time due to financial constraints, but that the commission did not expect that to adversely effect the results of the state's pathways.

"We conducted a review yesterday ... and had a look at the whole program," Dorrington said.

"One of the key outcomes was that we believe coaching is so important, that we're now going to employ a part-time coach (or) mentor ... who will oversee our academy coaches.

"The WA pathway system is recognised - as it was by Kevin Sheehan yesterday, the AFL co-ordinator - as equal to or leading any system in Australia.

"We're proud of it, we believe we can tweak it and make it even better, whether the person's full-time or part time, we still believe we can improve there.

"We will end up, somewhere down the track when dollars are around, with a full-time person."

There were suggestions this week that the WA system was slipping and could result in one of the state's worst drafts in recent years.

Dorrington said the WAFC remained confident in its pathways, but that there would always be lean years.

"All the indicators say - the number of players invited to the combines, the quality of our players, the quality of our programs - there's some very good players there," he said.

"Who the AFL pick, I can't (predict), nor can you, nor can anyone else.

"In the end, there's a bit of a keep-your-fingers-crossed ... but what we do know is, don't look at one year, look at the past decade and see who leads Australia.

"Per capita, Western Australia leads. South Australia were pretty ordinary for a few years, but had a good year last year.

"You can't be good all the time, but can I assure you and the WA footy public, that our aim is to be there all the time and we want to be the best pathway development system in Australia.

"We think we've got an outstanding one, sometimes you drop a bit, but yesterday was about identifying; why, what we can do, what resources we need and how we get back up to (stay) there all the time."

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Smorgon out at Whitten Oval

David Smorgon's long reign at the Western Bulldogs is over. Source: Herald Sun

THE 17-year reign of Western Bulldogs president David Smorgon is over.

In a shock move, Smorgon, 65, has tonight agreed to hand power to former club president Peter Gordon for the 2013 season.

Smorgon took over the top job at Whitten Oval in 1996 - from anti-merger hero Gordon.

Smorgon was expected to serve one more year in the top job, but was swayed by a succession report tabled at a lengthy Bulldogs board meeting today.

The shake-up, to be confirmed by the club tomorrow, will see wealthy Dogs director Susan Alberti named as vice-president.

Smorgon will stand down from the board at the club's annual general meeting on December 20.

Bulldogs members will then be asked to vote Gordon on to the board, which would confirm his presidency.

A Bulldogs board committee, headed by outgoing Dogs director Ian Veal, has spent several months exploring succession options for the popular Smorgon.

The committee recently settled on the pairing of Gordon and Alberti, a recommendation approved at today's board meeting.

The quality of the candidates was enough to convince Smorgon that the time was right to step aside.

Gordon, a successful lawyer, became Bulldogs president in 1989 after leading the fight against a merger with Fitzroy.

His board stood aside for the Smorgon administration in 1996.

Smorgon is the second-longest serving president in the AFL behind Sydney Swans chairman Richard Colless.

Agitator and former player Paul Dimattina is not a part of the changes.

If Dimattina was determined to join the board, as he has repeatedly signalled, he could try to force an election.

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Contracted Ray could stay put

Melbourne is hoping to lure St Kilda midfielder Farren Ray to the club during this week's trade period. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

FARREN Ray could continue at St Kilda next season despite languishing in the VFL this year and fielding interest from aggressive trade player Melbourne.

The dashing wingman floated in and out of new coach Scott Watters' side this year, finishing with just 11 games, but remains contracted at Seaford in 2013.

Ray's manager Marty Pask today said as it stood "at the moment", Ray was expected to stay a Saint.

The former No. 4 draft pick was traded to St Kilda at the end of the 2008 season after falling out of the best 22 at the Western Bulldogs.

A quiet qualifying final sealed Ray's fate under then-Dogs coach Rodney Eade, but he rebounded strongly under Ross Lyon, adding a harder edge to his game.

Ray, 26, played 50 of a possible 51 games in 2009-10, including all three Grand Finals.

"Nothing has changed, he's contracted at St Kilda Football Club. That's how it remains at this point in time," Pask told the AFL's Trade Radio.

"I do at the moment (think he'll stay put), most definitely. He's got that one year to go for next season."

Dees coach Mark Neeld is believed to be hot on the ball carrier after already securing young guns Jack Viney, Dom Barry, Jesse Hogan and Geelong premiership veteran Shannon Byrnes.

They also won Chris Dawes' nomination as his preferred club after requesting a shift from Collingwood.

Pask said while Ray was often out of the Saints 22, he remained in their best 25 and with some key exits already he could expect greater opportunities next year.

Live chat: Ask our experts what will happen at the trade table

St Kilda lost the biggest free agency fish this month with star Brendon Goddard walking to Essendon as a restricted free agent.

It is also bracing to lose homesick midfielder Jamie Cripps, while the Saints remain confident of luring Gold Coast ruckman Tom Hickey, who wants to spend more time with his Melbourne-based girlfriend.
 

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No footy in Vic for AFL Round 1

Richmond and Carlton will retain their traditional MCG opener on Easter Thursday next season. But two matches will be played the weekend before, both outside of Melbourne. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

VICTORIA will be devoid of AFL for the first weekend of next year's season with Adelaide and Fremantle set to host Round 1 matches.

Round 1 will be fixtured as a split round, with the MCG still contracted to cricket obligations for the first weekend.

The Blues and Tigers will still host the first match to be played in Melbourne on their traditional Thursday night time slot at the MCG.

The Bombers will open the season against the Crows at AAMI Stadium on a Friday night before a Dockers-West Coast derby as a stand-alone match the next day.

The remaining seven Round 1 games will be played the following weekend and across five days due to the Easter holidays.

There will again be no Good Friday match, but runner-up Hawthorn will get an early crack at snapping its Geelong hoodoo with the pair set for an Easter Monday Round 1 clash.

The Hawks have not beaten the Cats since their Grand Final triumph in 2008.

Should the Dons or Crows advance to the NAB Cup decider it will be staged on a Friday night to give both sides a seven-day break before their Round 1 encounter.

Meanwhile, St Kilda is set to get first crack at departed superstar Brendon Goddard in Round 4 when it plays Essendon.

Goddard, the biggest fish to defect via free agency, joined the Bombers on a lucrative four-year deal this month.

The Dons and Saints are expected to play each other twice next year.

Carlton has requested an early home match against Collingwood to show off its coaching coup Mick Malthouse against the side he led to the 2010 premiership.

The powerhouses are expected to be handed a Friday night battle at the MCG, most likely in Round 2.

ROUND 1
Friday, March 22: Adelaide v Essendon at AAMI Stadium
Saturday, March 23: Fremantle v West Coast at Patersons Stadium
Thursday, March 28: Carlton v Richmond at the MCG
Monday, April 1: Geelong v Hawthorn at the MCG

KEY 2013 FIXTURE DATES

Round 1: Thursday 28 March 2013 - Monday 1 April 2013
ANZAC Day - Round 5: Thursday 25 April 2013
Queen's Birthday match: Monday 10 June 2013
Round 23: Friday 30 August - Sunday 1 September 2013
Week 1 of finals: Friday 6 September 2013
AFL Grand Final: Saturday 28 September 2013

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Bassett could replace Hinkley

Former Crow and current Norwood coach Nathan Bassett could land at the Suns. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: AdelaideNow

NORWOOD premiership coach Nathan Bassett may get his preferred entry to an AFL coaching apprenticeship with Gold Coast.

The former Norwood defender has met the Suns' coaching director, Malcolm Blight, as Gold Coast looks to fill the vacancy created in Guy McKenna's staff by Ken Hinkley's move to Port Adelaide.

Suns football chief Marcus Ashcroft said today: "We've had brief chats with Nathan. We're still looking for another assistant coach."

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Giant offer for right price

Last year's GWS first-round draft picks, including No.1 selection Jonathon Patton (far left). The Giants say they are prepared to part with four of their first five picks in this year's draft for the right price. Source: Getty Images

GREATER Western Sydney has lobbed a curve ball into the AFL's stalled trade period, declaring that four of its prized first-round draft picks are up for grabs.

The Giants have five of the top 13 picks and were widely expected to welcome a second wave of star teenage talent in next month's draft.

But the Herald Sun can reveal the Giants are now prepared to part with picks 2, 3, 12 and 13 in a bid to add some top-line senior players to their fledgling side.

However, the coveted No.1 choice, which has been reserved for sublime Dandenong utility Lachie Whitfield, is off-limits to rivals.

With almost $2 million extra in its salary cap, including the controversial cost of living allowance, the Giants are believed to eyeing off some of the biggest names in the game before next Friday's trade deadline.

The club has identified a key defender as a priority to help beef up its young backline.

The Giants also confirmed they have inquired about contracted Carlton ruckman Robbie Warnock.

GWS list manager Stephen Silvagni said he had already begun fruitful talks with other clubs about deals involving its top selections.

"Other than our first pick, we are certainly happy to discuss potential trades with those picks," Silvagni said.

"We would like to bring another key position player into the mix, but having said that, they are hard to find and clubs are reluctant to shift them.

"If something did come across the table that we did value, we would certainly entertain a trade."

Unlike the uncontracted player compensation selections, which have taken a year to activate, a straight trade with the Giants over the next nine days will result in immediate compensation at the national draft on November 22.

The move could give a Victorian club access to a top-three pick in the draft for the first time since Melbourne claimed Tom Scully and Jack Trengove with the No.1 and 2 choices in 2009.

After snaring 11 of the top 14 picks last year, the Giants surprise trade ploy could also help break the deadlock, or have a major influence, on other deals at a standstill around the country.

Adelaide is chasing an early pick or quality player for spearhead Kurt Tippett, who wants to go to Sydney.

Collingwood has demanded a higher selection than Melbourne's No. 20 pick in exchange for forward Chris Dawes.

With some bumper talent at the top end of this year's draft, including classy midfielder Jimmy Toumpas, and combative ruckman Brodie Grundy, Silvagni said the Giants would not let go of its golden early choices cheaply.

"What needs to be offered up needs to be equivalent to those potential players who are going to play that (high) number of games," he said.

"The value for those picks needs to be right."

GWS yesterday re-signed No.1 ruckman Jon Giles for three years, despite expressing an interest in Blues fringe big man Warnock, who recently penned a new deal to remain at Carlton for another three seasons.

"We certainly inquired about him (Warnock) but having said that, he has obviously committed to Carlton, and that's where it (interest) stopped," he said.
 

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