Swans in like McGlynn

Adam Goodes celebrate the win against North Melbourne with fans at Blunstone Arena Hobart. Picture: Richard Jupe Source: The Mercury

Ben McGlynn of the Swans kicks a goal during the round three AFL match between the North Melbourne Kangaroos and the Sydney Swans at Blundstone Arena. Source: Getty Images

THE Sydney Swans have kicked their premiership defence into gear with a stunning 11-goal quarter against the Kangaroos in Hobart.

When it comes to goals, it was the best quarter the Swans had played since 1995.

The midfield brigade led with way again, co-captain Jarrad McVeigh continuing his stellar year with 28 disposals and two goals.

He was strongly supported by Josh Kennedy, Ryan O'Keefe, Luke Parker and Dan Hannebery.

"Mainly it was the players' intent which lifted in the second half,'' Longmire said. "I thought everyone lifted, it's always a full team defence when the opposition have got the ball. We seemed a lot more intent with our workrate.''

Longmire singled out the courage of small forward Ben McGlynn, who inspired his teammates during the third-quarter blitz.

"I thought there were a couple of good individual efforts like Benny McGlynn going back with the flight of the ball,'' Longmire said.

Jude Bolton also heaped praise on McGlynn's effort.

"We took enormous confidence out of Benny McGlynn going back with the flight (of the ball). It was a super courageous effort,'' Bolton said. "It got our intent going and our pressure from then on.''

As well as his courage, McGlynn was also very clean with the football, booting three second-half goals.

The 33-year-old Bolton is showing no signs of age and was outstanding with four goals.

His first three goals came in the opening half when the Swans kicked only five goals and looked under pressure against the Kangaroos.

"I'm not taking on another season without going hell for leather for another year. I didn't want to float through this year,'' Bolton said. "I want to be part of it and a really solid contributor.''

It was a fitting celebration for the dual premiership player, who racked up his 304th game for the red and whites and overtook Michael O'Loughlin to become second on the appearances list behind Adam Goodes (322 games).

It was a North Melbourne home game, but there was plenty of red and white in the crowd of 13,221.

After comfortable wins over expansion teams, the GWS Giants and the Gold Coast Suns, in the first two rounds, the challenge against North Melbourne was always going to be greater.

The Kangaroos were yet to win this season but had come close against quality opposition in Collingwood and Geelong to start the season.

The Swans were lucky the Kangaroos failed to capitalise on their first-half dominance.

North Melbourne could only manage a 14-point lead at the long break after leading the Swans in almost every statistical category.

In the first two terms, five of the Swans' forwards, including Goodes and Sam Reid, had only 16 kicks and four marks between them.

Both Reid and Goodes lifted their workrate enormously in the second half.

The road ahead sees the Swans facing Geelong on Friday night at the SCG before travelling to Wellington to play the Saints on Anzac Day in the first AFL game for premiership points to be played in New Zealand.

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Patton ruptures his ACL

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

Patton is helped from the field.

JONATHON Patton has suffered a monumental blow to his promising career with the top draft pick requiring a knee reconstruction that is expected to rule him out for the rest of the season.

Patton's leg buckled in a tackle applied by St Kilda's Rhys Stanley, forcing the Greater Western Sydney spearhead from the field for medical treatment.

VIDEO: See the incident in the video player above

Patton was heard screaming in agony the moment he hit the turf, before being carried from the field by trainers, while his ankle also appeared to awkwardly twist.

The Giants pulled the pin on his night at halftime.

Live HQ: Giants v Saints

The 19-year-old was chasing a mark he spilled before Stanley brought him to ground at the top of the goal square.

Knee injuries have plagued the Eastern Ranges recruit's career so far.

Patton underwent surgery in Sweden on his left knee before the 2012 season.

The Giants tonight revealed on Twitter it was an ACL tear.

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

 

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Neeld's men halve the gap

Mitch Clark after the loss Picture: Salpigtidis George

ONLY a side in Melbourne's state can claim a 94-point defeat as a raging positive.

But so strong was that message from the Demons' camp at the MCG last night, you had to make sure they actually had been beaten by West Coast.

They had been. Comprehensively. But never has perception been more important for a battling club.

Live HQ: Melbourne v West Coast

Yes, a third quarter in which Melbourne conceded 11 goals to one was unacceptable, they said. But everyone in red and blue was more interested in talking up a competitive first half that saw them trail by 10 points at the main break.

Forward Mitch Clark described it as "one of the best halves I've been involved in at the club". Nathan Jones said he was "really proud".

Coach Mark Neeld said it was a "little win".

Then, asked if last week was the worst of his life following 79 and 148-point floggings to open the season, Neeld used the words "amazing" and "positive" to describe the days after that humiliating loss to Essendon.

"This week at our football club we learned so much about each other," he said.

"Some of the things we went through. 'Craigy' (Neil Craig) and I met 10 volunteers on Monday night who arrived at our club to tell us they didn't have money to spare and they couldn't tip any in, but what they gave us was three hours of their time and they got on the phone and rang members who hadn't renewed.

HOWE GOOD WAS THAT? GALLERY OF JEREMY HOWE'S SPECCY

"They pleaded with them and they got 30 people to sign up.

"The lads thought it might be a good idea to get away to Sorrento. I saw some young leaders like Nathan (Jones) and Jack (Trengove) and Jack (Grimes) conduct some serious discussions and that was wonderful to be a part of.

"And yesterday (Friday), my hat goes off to the 400 supporters at training. I must admit I walked out and thought, 'Oh wow, there's two ways this could go', but I heard them singing the club song. It was a life experience, but a positive one for the footy club."

At halftime yesterday, Melbourne looked like a different side. They led disposals and contested ball against a top-four contender and most obviously, there was intent and intensity born from an old-fashioned one-on-one philosophy.

But you knew West Coast would keep coming. What you didn't know was whether Melbourne would. The answer was clear less than 10 minutes into the second half as the Eagles slammed through six unanswered goals in 14 minutes and 11 for the term.

But clinging to the positives is perhaps human nature, and after seeing the reaction of his players last week, it was probably Neeld's only option.

"When I walked through the (changeroom) doors last week, he (Nathan Jones) was the first one I saw. Oh wow. I saw Nathan; he couldn't speak. I went to 'Grimsey'; he was in tears. Wow. So there's times in development where you've got to put your arm around them and look after them.

"We care for our lads and I think we backed them in the first half. The third quarter we clearly didn't get it but that's where it's at. The scoreboard is the last thing that changes."

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Kreuzer, Varcoe subbed out

Cat Travis Varcoe walks the boundary with ice on his injured left shoulder. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

CARLTON ruckman Matthew Kreuzer and Geelong flyer Travis Varcoe have been substituted out of tonight's match against Geelong with a broken thumb.

Both failed to join their teams after the half-time break at Etihad Stadium.

Sports medical expert Peter Larkins said Kreuzer had sustained a broken bone in his thumb while Varcoe was sidelined following a heavy knock late in the second quarter.

Varcoe was crunched by Blues onballer Bryce Gibbs putting pressure on his heavily strapped left shoulder.

Giant blow with Patton to miss season

The excitement machine left the ground bracing his arm close to his body and went straight into the rooms for assessment.

He was subbed out after the main break despite returning to the field in the second quarter.

Varcoe has a history of shoulder problems including a lengthy stint on the sidelines in 2010.

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Cox on the run

Dean Cox is closing in on the Eagles' games record. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: The Sunday Times

DEAN Cox finds his end-of-season solace out in the Indian Ocean.

For the past 13 seasons, the man who is on track to become the first Eagle to play 300 games (he has played 253) has revolutionised ruck work.

An ability to run his opponents into the ground - often leaving them unable to walk the next day, according to Dean Brogan - moved Leigh Matthews to dub the West Coast star the finest ruckman in the game's history.

But the man who turned down approaches from St Kilda and Hawthorn and, more recently, Sydney is just a humble fisherman at heart.

Every year, Cox, 31, heads offshore with family and friends to an island 13km off the northwest coast, taking only fuel for the boat, food and fluids.

"It's a place I'll always call home," Cox said of the Dampier coast.

"We have a shack out there on one of the islands in the archipelago. There's a generator for power and it sleeps about 14 people.

"You can just get away from everything and do some deep-sea fishing and some spear fishing and just relax and catch up with friends."

Apart from the time Cox, then aged 10, boated out through a cyclone with his dad to rescue his cousin and mates - "It was a pretty intense experience" - the annual island getaways are perhaps one of the secrets behind his incredible durability, helping refresh body and mind.

Against a battered Melbourne today, the six-time All-Australian will notch up his 74th consecutive game, the most of any current Eagle.

At a time when he could be winding down, the 203cm motor man has had to step up this year, shouldering the load without the other half of the Eagles' superstar ruck tandem, Nic Naitanui.

The premiership ruckman admits recovering is getting tougher, especially "getting up the first couple of mornings after a game".

Eagles ruckman Dean Cox will again need to stand tall for his sides, particularly in the absence of Nic Naitanui. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

But for Cox, the running power that has transformed the modern rucking role is more hard work than God-given.

Developing alongside champion midfielders Chris Judd, Ben Cousins and Daniel Kerr throughout the 2000s, Cox has taken delight in building the endurance and merciless mind-set that enables him to exhaust opponents.

"I had the confidence to know that if it didn't happen in the first or second quarters, it would happen late in quarters or late in games," Cox said.

"If there is one, two or three quick balls-ups, when you are required to really spread from that stoppage, that's when I found I probably recovered pretty quickly.

"I wasn't the quickest runner but a lot of people can look quick by their reaction time."

A rookie pick, Cox considered himself blessed to have made up part of a golden midfield group, featuring Cousins, Judd, Kerr, Andrew Embley, Chad Fletcher and Michael Braun.

"Obviously, there's a lot of brilliance, but there was so much hard work to get that brilliance out of themselves."

Now there is another generation of players driving the Eagles' bid for a fourth premiership.

2006 Grand Final. Sydney Swans v West Coast Eagles. MCG. Victorious Eagles team with the premiership cup. Picture: Michael Dodge Source: HWT Image Library

He still thinks about "that last-minute kick" into the forward line, which Swans full-back Leo Barry marked in heroic fashion, denying what was widely considered a more talented West Coast side a flag in 2005.

"I just knew there wasn't too much time left and, if I had got caught with the footy 70m out, I would have been more angry," he said.

After a three-year stint out of finals, the Eagles have returned to being premiership threats.

Cox credited coach John Worsfold and the club's recruiting staff for developing the talent and culture to return to the top half of the ladder so quickly.

"They developed some young kids and obviously wanted to get a playing group that could have an impact when finals come," he said.

"You don't want to get through a season then get to finals and wonder how are we going to cope?"

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Menzel off leash on return

Up and running: Daniel Menzel will return on Sunday. Picture: Mike Dugdale Source: Geelong Advertiser

DANIEL Menzel will be given a licence to "just play footy" and back his body when he makes his VFL comeback.

Geelong has put no expectations on Menzel's performance, given the significant mental and physical battles he has endured over the past 19 months.

But the 21-year-old will take the field at Simonds Stadium tomorrow confident his reconstructed left knee is as strong as ever.

"Menz is really confident, he's backing his rehab and is probably less anxious now than he was after his first and second knee reconstructions because he's been through the process," VFL captain Troy Selwood said.

"He feels he's as strong as ever. You can't really think about what may or may not happen, you've just got to go out there and play footy and have fun.

"He's relaxed and not putting any pressure on his performance, he's just grateful that he's back out there playing footy again."

Menzel had LARS surgery in December after reinjuring his left knee at training just before Christmas - his third knee reconstruction in just over a year.

The livewire forward ruptured his right anterior cruciate ligament in the 2011 qualifying final and then did the same thing to his left knee in his VFL comeback match last June.

Selwood said Menzel would play most of tomorrow's match, but may start each quarter on the bench.

Daniel Menzel leaves the ground during his comeback match in the VFL with another knee injury. Picture supplied by Arj Giese. Source: Herald Sun

"Once he's out there, we think it's best for his confidence to not restrict him, and to let him go and enjoy it and not really think about it," Selwood said.

When Menzel runs out, his teammates will be riding every bump, ever change of direction and every kick. There was a rousing reception this week when coach Chris Scott told the players Menzel would finally return tomorrow.

"Scotty mentioned early in the week to the boys that Menz was going to be playing," Selwood said.

"It was fantastic, the boys just gave him a big round of applause because they know how much work he has put into it and the mental battle that he's had to face."

Josh Hunt will play his first match of the year after a pre-season ravaged by setbacks. First he had glandular fever, then he succumbed to a nerve problem that attacked his shoulder.

Cameron Guthrie also returns after he injured his calf in the warm-up to Geelong's practice match against Collingwood last month.

Sunday's game against Sandringham starts at 1pm.

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LIVE: Freo v Bombers

Essendon's Nick Kommer has avoided the substitute vest. Source: Getty Images

NICK Kommer has avoided the green vest in a SuperCoach boost and will start on the field at Patersons Stadium as Essendon clashes with Fremantle tonight.

Travis Colyer will instead return and start as the Bombers substitute.

Both sides made no late changes.

Live HQ: Fremantle v Essendon

The winner will hold top position on the ladder tonight with both side's undefeated and looking ominous in the first two rounds.

The Dockers again handed their green vest to Cam Sutcliffe.

Essendon senior assistant coach Mark Thompson said tagger Heath Hocking could go to any number of star Dockers tonight, including Michael Barlow, David Mundy and Nat Fyfe.

Thompson also said the Dons would throw Jobe Watson forward if serial tagger Ryan Crowley pegs the Brownlow medallist down tonight.

Head to Live HQ for live SuperCoach scores, updates and stats throughout tonight's encounter.

Fremantle v Essendon

Fremantle

B: L.Spurr, Z.Dawson, M.Johnson
HB: N.Suban, L.McPharlin, D.Pearce
C: T.Mzungu, R.Crowley, C.Pearce
HF: H.Ballantyne, M.Pavlich, N.Fyfe
F: K.Bradley, C.Mayne, M.Walters
Foll: J.Griffin, D.Mundy, S.Hill
Int: M.De Boer, P.Duffield, M.Barlow, C.Sutcliffe
Emg: T.Sheridan, J.Hannath, H.Crozier

In: H.Ballantyne
Out: H.Crozier (Omitted)

Essendon

B: M.Hibberd, C.Hooker, D.Fletcher
HB: D.Myers, J.Carlisle, C.Dempsey
C: D.Heppell, J.Watson, B.Goddard
HF: B.Stanton, S.Crameri, T.Colyer
F: A.Davey, P.Ryder, M.Hurley
Foll: T.Bellchambers, B.Howlett, H.Hocking
Int: D.Zaharakis, J.Melksham, E.Kavanagh, N.Kommer
Emg: J.Merrett, L.Jetta, D.Hille

In: T.Colyer, E.Kavanagh
Out: M.Baguley (Ankle), J.Merrett (Omitted)

Head to Live HQ for live SuperCoach scores, updates and stats throughout tonight's encounter.

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Bomber: Hirdy will keep coaching

Essendon coach James Hird will keep his job, says Mark Thompson. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON assistant coach Mark Thompson says there is no coaching contingency plan in place for senior coach James Hird.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou today said standing down was an option Hird "has to consider" before the Bombers legend emphatically shot that down.

Live HQ: Fremantle v Essendon

Thompson tonight said the Dons had not discussed any scenario without James Hird at the helm, backing up what Hird said earlier today.

"I won't be stepping down," Hird told Perth media.

Thompson tonight said his plans were not to coach, before joking "I'll probably walk with Hirdy."

Thompson said Hird was "going well" and denied the drugs scandal would affect the players' on-field performances.

"He's (Hird) going well. He's going well," Thompson told SEN.

"He's a pretty tough lad and it's important he stands up and continues to coach and that's what we've encouraged him to do and he'll do it well."

Thompson said the players understood what was going on and were "used to it".

He said the key to toppling Fremantle at Patersons Stadium tonight would be to counter their pressure and ability to retain the ball forward.

"If the ball spends most of the match in their forward half, our defence, we're probably going to lose," he said.

"So get the bloody ball out of there as quick as we can is the first thing to do."

The Bombers have been instructed to avoid handballing tonight and to instead gain yardage by booting the ball forward.
 

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AFL teams: Watts dropped

Jay Clark and Scott Gullan say to dump Pat Karnezis and Jack Watts and offer the best trade options for Round 3.

Comedian Will Anderson joins the boys to discuss their picks ahead of round 3

Shane Crawford reveals what to do with Jack Watts and Patrick Karnezis and what bargains to buy this week ahead of player price rises.

Melbourne has dropped Jack Watts. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE has dropped four players including No.1 draft pick Jack Watts for its clash against West Coast.

Watts, who was subbed off during last week's 148-point drubbing by Essendon, is out along with Sam Blease, David Rodan, Daniel Nicholson and injured defender Tom Gillies.

Into the Demons' line-up come Neville Jetta, Cam Pedersen, Michael Evans, Luke Tapscott and Rohan Bail, who has recovered from concussion.

The Eagles named Daniel Kerr and Mark LeCras, just three weeks after he suffered a broken arm in Round 1.

Collingwood star Dale Thomas will play his first game for 2013 against Hawthorn on Sunday.

See all the Round 3 line-ups in LiveHQ

Alex Fasolo is also in the Magpies' squad, along with veteran ruckman Ben Hudson, who replaces injured big man Darren Jolly (ribs). Nick Maxwell (wrist) is also out.

The Hawks lost Brad Sewell to a hamstring injury.

Scroll down to replay the live SuperCoach chat

St KIlda has suffered more injury problems, with Adam Schneider set to miss a month with a hamstring injury and Sean Dempster out with a broken hand.

They have been replaced by first-gamers Tom Lee and Nathan Wright for the Saints' clash against GWS.

Steve Johnson is back for Geelong, but James Kelly is out with a calf injury.

Carlton regained Heath Scotland and Shaun Hampson and dropped four players including Jeremy Laidler and Levi Casboult.

Richmond has included former Crow Chris Knights and top draft pick Nick Vlastuin in its squad to face the Western Bulldogs, who named No.6 draft pick Jackson Macrae.

And North Melbourne has named former Gold Coast defender Taylor Hine for his Kangaroos debut against Sydney at Blundstone Arena, Hobart.

Hine has been one of the Kangaroos best performers for VFL affiliate Werribee.

"Brad called me last night and said I'd be playing and that he was happy with how I went against the Hawks in the NAB Cup and how I've been going for Werribee in the VFL.  He just urged me to keep that going", Hine told the Kangaroos website.

Last year Hine collected a career-high 26 disposals lining up against Sydney excitement machine Lewis Jetta.

"I pretty much play as a small or medium defender playing on the quicks like Jetta.  Just being a lock dock down defender is a role I enjoy," Hine said.

"I played on Jetta before and played pretty well, but obviously you have to do your homework and know how they play.  He's improved a lot since then.  I'll do a bit of homework on him but won't try and think about it too much, just let it unfold."

FOLLOW GILBERT GARDINER AND AL PATON ON TWITTER: @gilbertgardiner and @al_superfooty

Fremantle v Essendon

Fremantle

B: L.Spurr, Z.Dawson, M.Johnson
HB: N.Suban, L.McPharlin, D.Pearce
C: T.Mzungu, R.Crowley, C.Pearce
HF: H.Ballantyne, M.Pavlich, N.Fyfe
F: K.Bradley, C.Mayne, M.Walters
Foll: J.Griffin, D.Mundy, S.Hill
Int: M.De Boer, P.Duffield, M.Barlow, C.Sutcliffe
Emg: T.Sheridan, J.Hannath, H.Crozier

In: H.Ballantyne
Out: H.Crozier (Omitted)

Essendon

B: M.Hibberd, C.Hooker, D.Fletcher
HB: D.Myers, J.Carlisle, C.Dempsey
C: D.Heppell, J.Watson, B.Goddard
HF: B.Stanton, S.Crameri, T.Colyer
F: A.Davey, P.Ryder, M.Hurley
Foll: T.Bellchambers, B.Howlett, H.Hocking
Int: D.Zaharakis, J.Melksham, E.Kavanagh, N.Kommer
Emg: J.Merrett, L.Jetta, D.Hille

In: T.Colyer, E.Kavanagh
Out: M.Baguley (Ankle), J.Merrett (Omitted)

North Melbourne v Sydney

North Melbourne

B: S.McMahon, S.Thompson, M.Firrito
HB: A.Mullett, N.Grima, S.Atley
C: D.Wells, R.Bastinac, L.Anthony
HF: B.Cunnington, R.Tarrant, L.Hansen
F: L.Thomas, D.Petrie, L.Adams
Foll: T.Goldstein, A.Swallow, J.Ziebell
Int: S.Wright, T.Hine, J.Macmillan, S.Gibson
Emg: T.Garner, K.Harper    23, M.Daw

In: S.Wright, T.Hine
Out: K.Harper (Omitted), B.Jacobs (Omitted)

Sydney

B: M.Mattner, H.Grundy, N.Smith
HB: J.McVeigh, T.Richards, N.Malceski
C: A.Everitt, K.Jack, L.Jetta
HF: R.O'Keefe, S.Reid, B.McGlynn
F: M.Pyke, A.Goodes, D.Hannebery
Foll: S.Mumford, J.Kennedy, J.Bolton
Int: T.Armstrong, C.Bird, L.Parker, L.Roberts-Thomson
Emg: M.Morton, D.Rampe,    J.White

In: T.Armstrong
Out: R.Shaw (Abdominal strain)

Melbourne v West Coast

Melbourne

B: N.Jetta, J.Frawley, D.Terlich
HB: J.Trengove, T.McDonald, C.Garland
C: M.Evans, J.Grimes, J.Viney
HF: M.Jones, M.Clark, J.Howe
F: A.Davey, J.Sellar, S.Byrnes
F: M.Jamar, C.Sylvia, N.Jones
Int: J.Toumpas, C.Pedersen, L.Tapscott, R.Bail
Emg: J.Watts, D.Rodan, J.Spencer

In: R.Bail, L.Tapscott, N.Jetta, C.Pedersen, M.Evans
Out: D.Rodan (Omitted), T.Gillies (Groin), S.Blease (Omitted), J.Watts (Omitted), D.Nicholson (Omitted)

West Coast

B: W.Schofield, D.Glass, A.Selwood
HB: S.Hurn, M.Brown, B.Waters
C: A.Gaff, M.Priddis, C.Masten
HF: A.Embley, JJ.Kennedy, A.Hams
F: J.Darling, J.Hill, M.LeCras
Foll: D.Cox, S.Selwood, L.Shuey
Int: S.Butler, J.Cripps, D.Kerr, C.Sinclair
Emg: J.Brennan, B.Dalziell, B.Wilson

In: D.Kerr , M.LeCras
Out: B.Dalziell (Omitted), B.Sheppard (Shoulder)

GWS Giants v St Kilda

St Kilda

B: N.Wright, S.Fisher, D.Roberton
HB: J.Geary, R.Stanley, S.Gilbert
C: J.Newnes, L.Hayes, N.Dal Santo
HF: L.Montagna, N.Riewoldt, T.Milera
F: S.Milne, T.Lee, A.Saad
Foll: B.McEvoy, D.Armitage, J.Steven
Int: C.Jones, A.Siposs, J.Blake,  B.Maister
Emg: F.Ray, T.Simpkin, S.Dunell

In: T.Lee , N.Wright
Out: A.Schneider (Hamstring), S.Dempster (Hand)
New: N.Wright, T.Lee

GWS Giants

B: A.Kennedy, T.Mohr, S.Gilham
HB: T.Bugg, P.Davis, C.Hampton
C: W.Hoskin-Elliott, C.Ward, L.Whitfield
HF: T.Scully, J.Cameron, S.Coniglio
F: J.Giles, J.Patton, D.Smith
Foll: D.Brogan, A.Treloar, T.Greene
Int: L.Plowman, S.Reid, D.Shiel, L.Sumner
Emg: S.Darley, S.Frost, A.Miles

In: S.Reid
Out: R.Palmer (Calf)

Geelong v Carlton

Carlton

B: C.Yarran, M.Jamison, L.Henderson
HB: Z.Tuohy, D.Armfield, B.Gibbs
C: K.Simpson,  A.Carrazzo, M.Robinson
HF: C.Judd,  A.Walker,  J.Garlett
F: D.Buckley, S.Hampson,  S.Rowe
Foll: M.Kreuzer, M.Murphy, B.McLean
Int: A.Joseph, K.Lucas, H.Scotland, M.Davies
Emg: T.Bell, J.Bootsma, L.Casboult

In: A.Joseph, S.Hampson, D.Buckley, H.Scotland
Out: J.Laidler (Omitted), L.Casboult (Omitted), T.Bell (Omitted), J.Bootsma (Omitted)
New: D.Buckley

Geelong

B: T.Hunt,  T.Lonergan, C.Enright
HB: J.Corey,  A.Mackie,  H.Taylor
C: M.Duncan,  J.Bartel,  P.Chapman
HF: M.Stokes, J.Podsiadly, S.Motlop
F: T.West, T.Hawkins, T.Varcoe
Foll: M.Blicavs, J.Selwood, S.Johnson
Int: A.Christensen, B.Smedts, J.Caddy, J.Murdoch
Emg: G.Horlin-Smith, J.Stringer, J.Thurlow

In: S.Johnson, J.Murdoch
Out: J.Kelly (Calf), M.Brown (Omitted)

Gold Coast v Brisbane

Gold Coast

B: J.Wilkinson, M.Warnock, J.Hutchins
HB: M.Shaw, R.Thompson, G.Broughton
C: M.Rischitelli, G.Ablett, J.Harbrow
HF: H.Bennell, S.May, A.Hall
F: J.Brennan, S.Day, B.Matera
Foll: C.Dixon, K.Hunt, D.Swallow
Int: Z.Smith, J.O'Meara, L.Russell, J.Allen
Emg: K.Horsley, C.Cameron, J.Taylor

In: G.Broughton, J.Allen
Out: T.Murphy (Shoulder), D.Prestia (Hip)

Brisbane

B: M.Golby, D.Merrett, A.Raines
HB: J.Adcock, J.Patfull, E.Yeo
C: J.Redden, T.Rockliff, P.Hanley
HF: D.Zorko, J.Brown, J.Green
F: N.McKeever, S.Martin, A.McGrath
Foll: M.Leuenberger, D.Rich, B.Moloney
Int: J.Polec, R.Bewick, J.Polkinghorne, S.Mayes
Emg: R.Harwood, P.Karnezis, R.Lester

In: J.Polec, N.McKeever, S.Mayes
Out: P.Karnezis (Omitted), R.Lester (Omitted), C.Beams (Knee)
New: S.Mayes

Richmond v Western Bulldogs

Richmond

B: S.Morris, A.Rance, T.Chaplin
HB: D.Grimes, R.Petterd, B.Houli
C: C.Newman, T.Cotchin, R.Conca
HF: B.Deledio, S.Edwards, D.Jackson
F: L.McGuane, J.Riewoldt, T.Vickery
Foll: I.Maric, D.Martin, S.Tuck
Int: B.Ellis, J.King, S.Grigg, J.Batchelor, C.Knights, R.Nahas, N.Vlastuin

In: C.Knights , R.Nahas , N.Vlastuin
Out: -
New: N.Vlastuin

Western Bulldogs

B: B.Goodes, D.Morris, L.Picken
HB: A.Cooney, J.Roughead, T.Young
C: N.Lower, D.Cross, C.Smith
HF: M.Wallis, L.Jones, D.Giansiracusa
F: R.Murphy, W.Minson, T.Dickson
Foll: A.Cordy, R.Griffen, T.Liberatore
Int: L.Dahlhaus, S.Higgins, E.Wood, J.Macrae, K.Stevens, J.Johannisen, L.Markovic

In: L.Markovic, E.Wood, J.Macrae
Out: -
New: J.Macrae

Collingwood v Hawthorn

Collingwood

B: N.Brown, A.Toovey, B.Reid
HB: M.Clarke, H.Shaw, H.O'Brien
C: S.Sidebottom, D.Swan, D.Thomas
HF: J.Elliott, T.Cloke, Q.Lynch
F: B.Sinclair, T.Goldsack, S.Dwyer
Foll: B.Hudson, S.Pendlebury, J.Blair
Int: A.Fasolo, J.Russell, B.Macaffer, J.Thomas, B.Johnson, P.Seedsman, J.Frost

In: D.Thomas, B.Hudson, J.Thomas, J.Frost, A.Fasolo
Out: D.Jolly (Ribs), N.Maxwell (Wrist)

Hawthorn

B: J.Gibson, R.Schoenmakers, B.Guerra
HB: L.Hodge, B.Stratton, G.Birchall
C: L.Shiels, S.Mitchell, B.Hill
HF: C.Rioli, L.Franklin, L.Breust
F: D.Hale, J.Roughead, P.Puopolo
Foll: M.Bailey, S.Burgoyne, J.Lewis
Int: S.Grimley, S.Savage, K.Cheney, J.Anderson, T.Duryea, I.Smith, J.Gunston

In: K.Cheney, T.Duryea, J.Gunston, S.Grimley
Out: B.Sewell (Hamstring)
New: S.Grimley, T.Duryea

Port Adelaide v Adelaide

Port Adelaide

B: T.Jonas, A.Carlile, C.O'Shea
HB: J.Pittard, J.Trengove, L.Stevenson
C: K.Cornes, T.Boak, M.Broadbent
HF: A.Monfries, J.Westhoff, P.Stewart
F: C.Wingard, J.Schulz, J.Neade
Foll: M.Lobbe, Bra.Ebert, H.Hartlett
Int: D.Cassisi, R.Gray, C.Heath, K.Mitchell, A.Moore, B.Renouf, O.Wines

In: D.Cassisi, B.Renouf, R.Gray, A.Moore
Out: J.Redden (Omitted)

Adelaide

B: L.Brown, B.Rutten, A.Otten
HB: M.Jaensch, D.Talia, B.Reilly
C: N.van Berlo, S.Thompson, D.Mackay
HF: J.Petrenko, T.Walker, R.Sloane
F: R.Douglas, J.Jenkins, J.Porplyzia
Foll: S.Jacobs, P.Dangerfield, M.Wright
Int: I.Callinan, B.Crouch, R.Henderson, G.Johncock, S.Kerridge, T.Lynch, B.Vince

In: G.Johncock, T.Lynch, S.Kerridge
Out: -

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18.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

Bombers call triple-0

Essendon coach James Hird has denied reports that sports scientist Stephen Dank personally injected him with drugs.

James Hird leaves the field after Essendon training. Picture: Tauber Andrew Source: Herald Sun

THE blue police van containing the Critical Incident Response Team slowed to a crawl as it passed Essendon's headquarters at Windy Hill this morning.

Another cheeky driver, in a tradesman's van, came to a complete stop as he poked his arm out of the window to take a photo from his mobile phone of the media contingent which was at least 10 deep as they crowded onto Napier St.

The occupants of the police van are used to witnessing far more serious incidents, often when life and death is on the line.

Life nor death was up for grabs when Essendon chairman David Evans spoke at the entrance of the club's offices, where many expected he would announce that coach James Hird would be stood down over fresh allegations that he was injected with a ASADA banned drug last year.

Jobs and reputations are what is on the line.

Certainly Hird's and chief executive Ian Robson and others high up in the Windy Hill food chain.

Essendon coach James Hird joins players for a kick at training. Picture: Tauber Andrew Source: Herald Sun

But Evans made it clear that Hird would coach the Bombers when they take on Fremantle in Perth tomorrow night.

He pointed out that Hird is a person of great respect to the club and, in fact, the football community.

"The board will not be making decisions about the next steps until the processes of the review and the investigation take their course,'' Evans said.

Essendon chairman David Evans faces the media at Windy Hill. Picture: Tauber Andrew Source: Herald Sun

"On behalf of the board I want to make it clear that if any person at our club has failed in their duty of care to the players then we will make the appropriate decisions on behalf of the Essendon Football Club.''

As ASADA continues to probe what substances were taken by the players, an independent but Essendon-commissioned investigation by former Telstra chief executive and Bomber supporter Ziggy Switkowski is expected to be completed soon.

Former ASADA chief Richard Ings says that Hird's case was pretty straightforward as far as the regulator is concerned.

No one at Essendon wants to be the one the firing the gun which may claim Hird.

If Bambi is to be shot, it will most likely come as a result of the findings of Switkowski's report.

Hird arrived at today's training session saying he wanted to clear his name.

Essendon Coach James Hird and captain Jobe Watson leave a Windy Hill training session to head to Melbourne Airport. Source: Getty Images

He left after Evans' footpath press conference in a black Kia provided by a club sponsor.

Hird was with two of his colleagues and friends - football manager Danny Corcoran and club doctor Bruce Reid.

Just moments earlier club chief executive Ian Robson, communications manager Justin Rodski and Evans left in an identical black top-of-the-range Kia.

A convoy of maxi-cabs had already left to take the players to nearby Melbourne Airport for their flight to Perth.

Perhaps it was ironic that both Hird and Robson were in the drivers' seats.

But as Evans reminded everyone, it's important that Hird and other officials in the gun at Windy Hill are afforded the opportunity to talk to ASADA and have the basic rights of natural justice.

If Hird does go, the Critical Incident Response Team might just have to swing past Napier St once again.
 

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'Witch doctor' mix slammed

Tim Watson and son Jobe. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON legend Tim Watson has likened the bizarre supplements at the centre of the Bombers' drugs crisis to ingredients used by a "witch doctor".

The father of Essendon captain Jobe said he remained "angered" at the prospect the club had failed in its "duty of care" to players.

Sacked Essendon scientist Stephen Dank has claimed the substances Bombers players consumed included pig's ear, calves' milk and bark extract.

Watson said the concoction "just sounds crazy".

"You know what it sounds like? It just sounds like the witch doctor stuff," Watson said on SEN.

"It sounds like the people who have been trying to come into footy clubs for years and years and trying to peddle stuff.

"Going back to when I played, 20 years now, where you had people knocking on the door and you would see some odd-looking fellow in the medical room trying to flog something to the club."

Essendon players are facing two-year bans over allegations they were injected with banned substances.

Watson had faith the club would hold staff to account as part of Essendon's internal investigation but was concerned by the seriousness of the allegations levelled at the club's supplement program.

"As a parent or as somebody associated with Essendon Football Club ... you think, 'Well, where is the duty of care here'?"

"Who was responsible for ticking off on these things?

"Did these people act in a maverick renegade way, whereby they were telling people at the football club one thing - and I'm talking about the doctors - and then going away and doing something completely different?

"These are all questions which I hope answers will be found and there is no reason why they won't be found after this investigation is completed by Ziggy Switkowski."

Watson said he was confident in the integrity of the Bombers' probe, to be completed within weeks. "People will think Essendon are investigating themselves (and) they will push stuff under the carpet," he said.

"I don't believe that will be the case at all, because I am seeing the stress on the faces of those who are involved at the Essendon Football Club. "This is not going to be a sweep under the carpet type exercise."

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New Bomber text claims

James Hird looks set to coach against Fremantle after Essendon chairman David Evans offered his support.

LEAKED text messages allegedly reveal James Hird and Stephen Dank boasting about Essendon's drugs supplement program.

The text messages, shown on Channel 9 and ABC tonight, have not been verified, but appear to show a close relationship between the Bombers coach and the sports scientist at the centre of the club's controversial injections program.

Hird has declared he will coach Essendon against Fremantle tomorrow night and the club today stood by him after claims emerged he had been injected by Dank with a substance banned for use by players.

The explosive new allegations include Dank handing out anti-anxiety supplements in the Essendon coaches box on match day.

Dank also told the ABC that Hird was part of a "vitamin regime".

Channel 9 news and the ABC's 7.30 Report claim they have six months' worth of text messages between Hird and Dank, including one allegedly sent by Hird on April 12 last year telling Dank it would "be great to have the players fresh for Anzac Day."

The texts also refer to the drug cerebrolysin, which is made from pigs brain proteins, and include the following exchanges:

Hird: Good work today mate. The boys were up and about. We have lots to work with.
Dank: IV start next week. And Thymosin and Ubiquinone. We will start to see some real effects.

Essendon coach James Hird and captain Jobe Watson leave Windy Hill today.

Dank: Is (player) in your best 22?
Hird: At his best, yes. Why?
Dank: I am just working out his injections for the year. As an older leaner body I might infuse him more particularly for the recovery. I often IV the older bodies.

Dank: I also know that they (a rival club) are trying everything they can in supplements and recovery modes to win this premiership.
Hird: But not as good as us in that area!!!

The 7.30 Report aired a previously unseen portion of an interview with Dank in February, in which he initially refuses to discuss Hird specifically, but then says "I know there were times James was sick and run down and he certinly had his vitamin regime ... certainly James was part of that program if you like, like other coaching staff was (sic).

"There was nothing untoward in that program, nothing untoward in what James took."

Former ASADA chairman Richard Ings said the allegations Hird took substances banned for players were "troubling".

"Coaches should not be involved in any way, shape or form in the use of prohibited substances. It's a conflict of interest with their players," he told the ABC.

"Under the WADA code and the AFL anti-doping policy it's not prohibited for coaches to be involved in using banned substances, but coaches are in a position of trust and influence. It's difficult for coaches to tell players not to use banned substances and then be using those same banned substances themselves."

Earlier today, AFL chief Andrew Demetriou said Hird would be held to account if it is proven he has compromised his duty of care as Essendon coach.

Demetriou said allegations that Hird was injected with a drug were "very serious".

Essendon coach James Hird walks to the team bus after landing at Perth Airport. Picture: Daniel Wilkins

"I can't think of anything more serious," Mr Demetriou said at a press conference this afternoon.

Demetriou said speculation over whether Hird would stand down should be put off until the ASADA investigation was complete.

"Notwithistanding that, it is very clear that ... if any coach or official puts a duty of care of their players at risk, then they will be held accountable."

"There is no place for them in our game.

Essendon coach James Hird has arrived at Windy Hill to waiting media eager to get his side of the story. Courtesy Seven News.

"As a parent, and not just as the CEO of the AFL, the issues as reported surrounding the potential use of various substances is something that is disturbing, very disturbing, particularly when we're talking about the health and welfare of young men."

Hird earlier said allegations that he took a drug, which players are banned from taking, during the 2012 season were "horrifying".

There is no suggestion that the drug is illegal or that Hird would be in breach of the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) rules if it is proved he took the drugs.

Dank has claimed he injected Hird with a substance banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Essendon coach James Hird leaves Windy Hill to board a flight to Perth.

Jon Ralph: Drug cloud hangs over Hird

What James Hird allegedly took

Evans said that the allegations against Hird and other club officials in today's press were "very serious", but he wanted to "urge caution".

"The board will not be making a decision about these allegations today and it is extremely important that James and the others be afforded the opportunity to talk to ASADA and that basic right to natural justice," he said at a press conference.

"James Hird is a person of great respect of this club and indeed the football community, and the board will not be making decisions on the next steps until the process of the review and the investigation take their course."

Essendon coach James Hird arrives at Windy Hill this morning. Picture: Andrew Tauber

Evans said there were "complex issues" impacting the club and they were "trying to respond to the facts as they come to hand".

He said the board was aware of irregular practices, which is why it self-reported to ASADA and the AFL.

"And I want to say this: I, as chairman, and the Essendon Football Club under my leadership have and will support ASADA and the AFL in their investigations," Evans said.

"As I said yesterday, the board has made it clear that the health and the safety of the players is paramount and that if anyone at our club has breached the duty of care, the board will act."

Hird said he would respond to the slurs. Picture: Andrew Tauber

Hird and Essendon captain Jobe Watson left Windy Hill without further comment a short time later.

Earlier, Hird said the claims against him were "being made by a person or  people who appear determined to destroy my reputation".

"I have at all times fully adhered to, and promoted the WADA code and the AFL rules, and the code of ethics of the Essendon Football Club," he said.

"I would never do anything to put the players of the Essendon Football Club or the club at risk. As I said in February, I am shocked our club is facing this situation.

Hird leaves his Toorak home on his way to Windy Hill. Picture: Nicole Garmston

"I will make no further comment at this stage as I am committed to assisting the ASADA and AFL investigation."

Andrew Bolt: Big shock - Hird allegedly takes legal drug

Watson, speaking on the Matt & Jo Show this morning, said he never witnessed Hird take intravenous substances.

He added: "It's a horrible situation for him to be in, as strong as any person is, and Hirdy is probably one of the strongest people I've met with the highest integrity.

"It affects everyone.

"I'm sure that he's in a very unpleasant space at the moment, and it would mainly be because of the effect that it's having on his family."

And when asked how today's report would impact on the players, Watson responded:  "Unfortunately over the last six to eight weeks, we've become quite good at crisis management as a playing group.

"So, I think it is a distraction at the moment … but I think that by the time we get over there, we spend some time with each other and we'll get ready to play and we'll play."

A number of players arriving at Windy Hill gave no comment on the claims against Hird, however some did speak out and state he had the support of the playing group.

Bombers defender Kyle Hardingham said: "Yeah, nah, everyone's behind him (Hird) but we'll leave it up to the club."

Star David Zaharakis also answered "yes" when asked by the media whether the players would back Hird.

A club source told the Herald Sun last night: "James will fight this ... this is not true. James is an honorable person, these people are disreputable and the club will not rest until his name is fully cleared. This is an outrageous allegation."

A former head of ASADA said coaches are not asked to comply with the same rules as their players when it comes to banned substances.

While not commenting directly on the allegations, Richard Ings told 3AW radio this morning that the substances in question were not banned for coaches.

"These substances are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency code for players. If coaches are using such a banned substance it is not banned under the World Anti-Doping Agency code or the AFL anti-doping policy," Mr Ings said.

It is also claimed that Hird was aware of the entire supplements program at Essendon, which included taking players off site for injections, and that the players signed consent forms listing the type of supplements they'd be taking.

It's been reported a number of players took a form of pig's brain peptides, and an anti-obesity drug.

It's believed investigations by the club and ASADA will see the Bombers admit to not doing due diligence on the employment of staff, and "irregular practices".

Dank, who is at the centre of allegations about the use of performance-enhancing drugs in rugby league, made the latest claims in an interview with Fairfax Media.

The Herald Sun can reveal Hird had three stringent rules forming the basis of the supplement program:

THE players' welfare was the No.1 priority.

ALL supplements were to be ticked off by ASADA.

EVERYTHING was to be ticked off by the club doctor. It's understood the third rule was not always adhered to.

Dank continues to maintain none of the substances he gave players was in breach of the world anti-doping code or AFL rules.

"Before I've done anything in any forum, we have always had conversations with WADA or ASADA - or in some cases both," he said.

"They were always well informed of anything we were about to use. Nothing was ever used without asking them first and, in some cases, both parties were asked.

"Never once was anything indicated to me that we would have issues in terms of anything we used."

But he said Hird knew of the supplements program.

"Look, to be perfectly honest, a couple of coaches were using supplements that were a little bit outside the WADA code, but again they were entitled to (do) it, and nothing illegal in those."

Essendon has growing confidence players will be cleared of any link to performance-enhancing drugs.

The club's internal review into "irregular practices" is due in coming weeks.

---

THE STORY SO FAR

February 12: Former sports scientist Stephen Dank drops new bombshell claims

February 15: Drugs scandal takes huge toll on Essendon chairman

February 17: Essendon drug probe expected to last six months

February 22: Signed forms may save Essendon players

March 20: Essendon could face Senate inquiry

18.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

Pitt's life at risk if he plays on

Docker Jayden Pitt (left) is facing the possibility of retirement at the age of 20. Picture: Daniel Wilkins. Source: PerthNow

FREMANTLE utility Jayden Pitt is facing a gut-wrenching decision after being told that his life may be at risk if he continues to play footy.

After consulting two specialists, it is believed Pitt was advised last week that he risked serious health ramifications and even death if he continued to play at the highest level, The Australian reports.

The 20-year-old was diagnosed late last month with a heart irregularity following routine electrocardiogram testing of Fremantle players.

It is understood the medical diagnosis came as a shock to both the club and Pitt, who has been with his family in Victoria during the past fortnight.

Fremantle general manager of football operations Chris Bond said there had been no previous signs of the condition.

Pitt played two NAB Cup games for the Dockers this year before a 26-possession performance for Peel Thunder in round one of the WAFL with no problems.

After consulting a cardiologist in Perth, Pitt also sought medical advice in Melbourne.

It is believed both specialists gave similar advice that Pitt's condition was so serious that they advised premature retirement.

"Following his recent diagnosis with a heart irregularity, Jayden has received advice from two specialists," Bond said yesterday.

"I spoke to Hayden today and after receiving advice from the two cardiologists, he remains committed to working with his family, the specialists and the club to determine his next course of action.

"It is important to note that Jayden remains optimistic about the future of his football career and we will continue to support him in that regard."

Pitt was a first-round national draft selection, at No 20 overall, in 2010 and played eight games in his debut season the following year. He played another two games under new coach Ross Lyon last year.

Fremantle released a media statement late last month announcing Pitt's career had been put on hold while he awaited further investigation following his initial diagnosis in Perth.

"The club will be working closely with Jayden, his family and his management to determine the best course of action for his future," Bond said in the release.

Club officials met Pitt in Melbourne last weekend and it is understood the club was told of the second diagnosis.

Pitt will return to Melbourne with his family to seek further opinions on the initial diagnosis.

The club did not release any further details about the nature of the heart irregularity.

"The club will be working closely with Jayden, his family and his management to determine the best course of action for his future,'' Fremantle football operations manager Chris Bond said in a statement released on Tuesday night.

"In the meantime, training and playing football for Jayden have been put on hold while further opinions are sought.''

Sandilands could be back in eight weeks

The 20-year-old has played 10 games since being recruited with pick No.20 in the 2010 national draft.
Pitt's health scare follows bad news on the injury front for ruckman Aaron Sandilands, who will miss up to 12 weeks after it was deemed he needs surgery on his left hamstring.

Fremantle have a bye this weekend after opening their season with a 28-point win over arch rivals West Coast.

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Maxwell to miss up to eight weeks

Collingwood skipper Nick Maxwell. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD skipper Nick Maxwell is set to miss up to eight weeks after suffering a wrist fracture.

Maxwell hurt his wrist in last Sunday's match against Carlton at the MCG and saw a surgeon today.

The 29 year-old requires surgery and Collingwood's director of football Geoff Walsh said he was unlikely to be available again before late May.

"Unfortunately, Nick is looking at a spell," Walsh told Collingwood's website.

"His wrist was sore and the pain wasn't easing. He's got a crack that requires surgery that, at this stage, is likely to keep him out for six weeks and possibly a little longer.

"I'm sure that Nick, being the professional he is, will do everything he possibly can to be back as early as possible."
 

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Hodge re-signs with Hawks

Hawthorn captain Luke Hodge has re-signed with the club. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN captain Luke Hodge has signed a new one-year deal.

Hodge, 28, like former captain Sam Mitchell, would have been an unrestricted free agent at season's end.

After Mitchell put pen to paper recently Hodge's signature is the latest piece of the Hawks' free-agency puzzle to fall into place.

Lance Franklin remains the big fish, but Shaun Burgoyne and Xavier Ellis are others to come out of contract at season's end.

Hodge, the 2008 Norm Smith medallist, said last month he would expect to have to take a pay cut to accommodate players such as Franklin under the salary cap.

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

Hodge played just 10 games last year because of a nagging left knee injury, which also delayed his start to this pre-season.

He played his first senior game for the year against West Coast last weekend and is expected to be fit for Sunday's blockbuster against Collingwood.

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Baker's life ban overturned

Former Steven Baker is free to play again. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

FORMER St Kilda hard man Steven Baker is free to play football again after having his life-time ban overturned.

The one-time AFL tagger had been banned for life after a suspension in a practice match last month resulted in him exceeding the number of suspended matches allowed for players in lower levels of the game.

But Baker and Sorrento won their appeal tonight when the charge was upheld, allowing the 32-year-old to resume playing.

Sorrento president Garry Woodhams said Baker was delighted with the decision.

"I think it is his first win at a tribunal ever," Woodhams said.

"We had to put up $5500 to put the appeal in, which is pretty ridiculous. On the evidence, you would have to say that we wouldn't have put the appeal in if we didn't think we had a good shot.

"Steve is really pleased with the decision, and so is the club."

Baker, who played 203 games with the Saints from 1999-2011, had originally been suspended for six weeks for rough play after a Red Hill player was left with a broken jaw. But he protested his innocence and was determined to fight the penalty.

Under Victorian Country Football League rules, if a player is suspended for 16 matches over the course of their career, they are banned nation-wide for life.

For players coming out of the AFL system, their number of weeks is halved.

Baker was suspended for a total of 28 weeks in the AFL, so his figure was reduced to 14. If the six-week ban stood, he would not have been able to play again.

Baker, who had a number of high profile suspensions in his time at St Kilda, including a nine-match ban on four separate charges after a stoush with Geelong's Steve Johnson in 2010, will have to wait an extra week to make his comeback to the game.

Sorrento has a bye this week, so he will resume for the Sharks on April 20.

Woodhams said: "It's a good result, we have had a good start to the season and we can only get better with Steve in the team.

"He has played over 200 games of league footy and most players have had enough by then. But he wants to keep on playing and wants to play with his old mate from St Kilda, Troy Schwarze."

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Stevie J could face Blues

Geelong star Steve Johnson is on the verge of returning from injury. Source: Getty Images

GEELONG forward Steve Johnson is a chance to return against Carlton on Saturday night, while Jared Rivers has been ruled out for up to three more weeks.

Johnson had minor surgery on his left knee on March 26, and Cats coach Chris Scott said today he could be back against the Blues at Etihad Stadium.

"He's some sort of chance. He'll be disappointed that I've rated him some sort of chance, he's very confident that he'll play, our medical staff think he's a chance but there's just more work that needs to be done before we can make a definitive judgement,'' Scott said.

"Steve has a bit of input but the medical staff has more, they're the ones that need to make that judgement.

"Only he knows how he feels so that's where he comes into the decision-making process and I'm clearly third in line when it comes to making that decision.

"In terms of his preparation to play AFL football through the pre-season, he's got a lot of work behind him and we're confident that if he's available and he comes into the team, that he'll be able to perform to a high level based on that preparation.''

Scott confirmed that Rivers who missed Sunday's comeback win over North Melbourne had a slight strain of the posterior cruciate ligament.

"The prognosis was anywhere between two and four weeks, so we're banking on three but if it is four it wouldn't surprise us,'' Scott said.

"He won't play until he's absolutely ready to play his best footy.''

Scott said young forward Daniel Menzel was a certainty to play his first game back in the VFL this week after undergoing his third knee reconstruction over summer.

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Schwab: The buck stops with me

Melbourne FC has confirmed the resignation of chief executive Cameron Schwab after a disastrous start to the season

Melbourne CEO Cameron Schwab faces the media with club president Don McClardy after resigning his position at the Demons. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

Picture: David Mcarthur Source: Herald Sun

OUSTED Melbourne chief Cameron Schwab may be just the first head to roll as the AFL's oldest club lurches deeper into its greatest crisis.

After Melbourne lost its first two games of the season by a total of 227 points, the Demons' president, Don McLardy, refused to guarantee anyone's job.

"Everyone in our football club is under extreme pressure. We're all accountable for what's happening at our club," McLardy said last night after accepting Schwab's resignation, two years into a four-year renegotiated contract.

Schwarz: Dees need more change

"The board will meet in the next 24 to 48 hours and we'll work out our pathway forward from here."

On whether coach Mark Neeld's job was under threat, McLardy said: "No, Mark Neeld is not on notice at all."

Neeld, his assistant coaches and the entire playing group met at Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula last night for a bonding session amid the turmoil.

Jack Grimes and Nathan Jones after the match Picture: Harman Stephen Source: Herald Sun

"We're all accountable. Our job as a board is to look at what's best for the footy club," McLardy said.

"For many reasons, we have a divided supporter base. We've got a lot of issues within our members and supporters who are looking at us and saying what is the pathway forward.

Why coach Mark Neeld should be nervous

"And we must offer them hope and change, and we need clear eyes to have a look at where we're at.

"The unity of our club is absolutely vital.

Melbourne CEO Cameron Schwab faces the media with club president Don McClardy after resigning his position at the Demons. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

"I'm not worried at all about the business side of the club. It's sound and solid, but clearly our football performance is not acceptable. And the CEO is head of the organisation."

Schwab, who spent 15 years at the Demons after starting as an office boy, said he accepted the decision that forced his hand yesterday.

"Am I a scapegoat?" he asked. "I know how the system works. My role as a CEO is to build a club which has an ultimate objective of winning games of footy.

"I'm four years in where we've lost by over 200 points in the last two games. And that's an unforgiving situation. I knew the pressure would be on.

"This game makes decisions on people's lives every day, and it just so happens we're here talking about mine today.

"We'll be talking about someone else's tomorrow because it's a performance-based industry.

"In terms of where the club is at the moment, it is difficult, the losses.

"And this club will bounce back, don't worry about that.

"It's a much better and stronger club than it's representing itself at this time."

McLardy said he planned to contact AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou today to discuss the Demons' plight.

"I've spoken to the AFL regularly. I left a message for him and I'll be speaking with Andrew over the next couple of days.

"We make our own decisions on our football club," McLardy said.

Melbourne CEO Cameron Schwab faces the media with club president Don McClardy after resigning his position at the Demons this morning. April 9, 2013. Picture: Klein Michael Source: Herald Sun

SCHWAB FILE
CEO: 451 games
WINS: 164
WIN-LOSS RATIO: 36%
FINALS SERIES: 3
COACHES SACKED: 4 (Kevin Bartlett, Neil Balme, Chris Connolly, Dean Bailey)

REPLAY THE LIVE CHAT BELOW

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Schwarz: Dees need more change

David Schwarz has forecast more change at the Dees. Picture: Fiona Hamilton Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE great David Schwarz has forecast more change than just the sacking of chief executive Cameron Schwab at his old club, following the Dees' disastrous start to 2013.

Schwarz highlighted Port Adelaide's undefeated opening to the season as proof of what rejuvenation could produce.

"There will be more changes. There has to be," Schwarz said on SEN.

Why Mark Neeld is under pressure

"You have to remember Cameron Schwab was a part of the recruitment of (coach) Mark Neeld,'' he said.

"He was one of four people involved in that recruiting process. He would be feeling responsibility.''

Last off-season the Power appointed a new president, new coach and invested heavily in youth at the national draft to plant the building blocks of its next era.

Schwab: The buck stops with me

Schwarz said Port Adelaide went through a similar predicament to the Dees last year before "coming out the other end".

"So, there might be light at the end of the tunnel."

Demons president Don McLardy asked Schwab to resign despite ensuring the club would make no rash changes on Sunday, just 12 hours after the record-breaking 148-point loss to Essendon.

He today gave similar support to Neeld, declaring: "Mark Neeld is not on notice.''

Schwab was re-signed on a three-year contract last year, while Neeld - 24 games into his coaching tenure - has a deal until the end of 2014.

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Hawks lose Sewell for Pies clash

Hawthorn's Brad Sewell is out with a hamstring strain. Source: Getty Images

COLLINGWOOD star Scott Pendlebury will not have to contend with Brad Sewell in Sunday's blockbuster after the Hawthorn hardnut was ruled out with a hamstring strain.

The Hawks tonight revealed Sewell, who usually lines up on Pendlebury, would miss up to two weeks.

He tightened up during Sunday's impressive win against West Coast and was substituted out during the third quarter.

Hawks acting football manager Chris Fagan said Sewell underwent a scan, which showed "a bit of bleeding in the hamstring".

"Brad was able to jog lightly today, and depending on how quickly the injury site settles we expect him to resume playing within the next 1-2 weeks."

But the Hawks could be bolstered by the return of recruit Brian Lake after the veteran defender emerged unscathed from his VFL return on Sunday.

Hawthorn also regained captain Luke Hodge last week and enter the Collingwood showdown slight favourites.

The Hawks face Fremantle after the Pies, with Sewell hoping to return for that clash.

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If you don't mind, umpire

A controversial free kick and 50m penalty has gifted Geelong another remarkable comeback victory at Etihad Stadium today.

Jimmy Bartel kicks the winning goal for Geelong. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

WE PICK the five biggest umpiring eyebrow-raisers of the weekend.

Umpiring is a tough job - getting tougher every year with more rule tweaks and interpretation changes - and most of the time the men in white/green/red do a great job. Sometimes, however, we need to examine some issues closer to get a clear explanation and help everyone's understanding of the game.

Each week we'll nominate five decisions that demand a second look. Then we'll take on board your views and any nominations we've missed, and get a verdict from AFL House.

Have your say on these decisions and let us know any we missed by leaving a comment below or sending a note on Twitter or Facebook

1. FOOTY LOGIES

In the spirit of last night's awards ceremony for Australia's TV industry, several players put in bids for their own acting awards on the weekend. The first nominations came on Friday night, with Shaun Grigg making sure the umpires didn't miss a late Lenny Hayes bump then Nick Dal Santo hitting the turf as if he'd been hit by a sniper in the top deck rather than copping a brush to the face from Shane Tuck.

But both efforts may have been topped yesterday by North Melbourne forward Lindsay Thomas, who won a crucial free for kicking in danger after Geelong ruckman Trent West tried a clumsy toe-poke late in the third quarter. Thomas, who was trying to pick up the ball, threw his hand back then fell to the ground, then drilled the goal to extend the Kangaroos' lead.

2. FIRRITO'S BRAIN FADE

The umpires were in focus again in a dramatic finish to that game, with Jimmy Bartel kicking the winning goal from a free kick and 50m penalty.

The free was clear-cut after Nathan Grima collapsed into Bartel's back about 30m out from the Cats' goal. Then veteran Michael Firrito made a bad situation a whole lot worse by picking up the ball and booting it as far away as he could.

Firrito says the crowd was "really loud" but the umpire was only a few metres away and the free could not have been in the Kangaroos' favour. Making the matter worse was the fact Firrito gave away a 50m penalty for exactly the same offence in Round 1.

Watch the video above and make up your own mind

Nathan Grima crashes into the back of Jimmy Bartel, giving away a free kick. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

3. TIGERS' FREE RUN

St Kilda's defence has enough issues at the moment without adding a lack of discipline - or unfriendly umpires, depending on your point of view - to the list.

Richmond won seven free kicks in its forward 50 on Friday night while the Saints received just one in their attacking arc.

Jack Riewoldt was the chief beneficiary, earning four frees while Jake King won three and Luke McGuane two.

Saints fans were particulary unhappy when Tyrone Vickery earned a shot at goal after Jason Blake was penalised for a high spoil - there didn't seem a lot in it but photographic evidence below shows the ump was on the money.

Sam Gilbert can consider himself more hard done-by after he was pinged for holding the ball early the match despite being buried under a pack of about eight players.

Jason Blake gives away a free kick for holding Ty Vickery. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

4. BROWN PUSH A GREY AREA

It was the ultimate 50-50 situation - the game in the balance with just minutes remaining and a loose ball on the wing.

Carlton's Dennis Armfield got there first at the MCG yesterday but was pushed out of the way by Collingwood defender Nathan Brown.

Did Brown put his hands in Armfield's back? If he didn't, they were very close. Armfield hit the turf, the umpire waved play-on and the Pies swept forward. They scored a behind from that play but it was the Blues' last best chance to pinch the game.

Adelaide captain Nathan Van Berlo charged by match review panel after trying to handball and hitting his opponent's face instead.

5. ONE VIDEO HENDO LIKES

Adelaide's Ricky Henderson had his name in the papers today for the wrong reasons, but he scored a great long goal against the Lions on Saturday - helped by the video review system.

After Henderson swept down the wing and launched his long shot from 50m, the goal ump at the Gabba was in perfect position - in fact it was so good he was exactly where Brisbane's Tom Rockliff jumped in a desperate effort to touch the ball.

Rockliff did just that but also flattened the goal ump and the decision on whether the ball had crossed the line before he got a fist to it was left to the video ref. With the only available footage seemingly taken from the wing, it was impossible to know exactly where Rockliff made contact. It seems unlikely the ball was entirely over the line, but Hendo got the benefit of the doubt.

At least the goal ump escaped unscathed, unlike his colleague at Etihad Stadium earlier that day.

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Crows furious over TV player flash

Adelaide star Patrick Dangerfield says broadcasters must respect players' privacy. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: Herald Sun

Forward Ricky Henderson returns to Adelaide following the Crows win in Brisbane. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: Herald Sun

Forward Ricky Henderson returns to Adelaide after being exposed by a changeroom camera. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: Herald Sun

UPDATE: STAR Crows midfielder Patrick Dangerfield has declared his disappointment at the AFL's official telecasters for embarrassing team-mate Ricky Henderson at the weekend.

Of Foxtel's decision to show Henderson as he opened his shorts in the changerooms at the Gabba on Saturday, Dangerfield said: "The broadcasters have a responsibility to respect the players' privacy. It's disappointing."

The Crows players will gather today to consider their response to Fox Footy not editing the Henderson moment from its coverage and Channel Seven's decision to lampoon Henderson during its Saturday night football telecasts.

The Adelaide Football Club at the same time will be seeking apologies from the telecasters and assurances the moment will not be repeated.

The broadcasting of the footage resulted in thousands of messages bombarding Henderson's Twitter account, increasing his embarrassment.

"Ricky was really stressed (on Saturday night)," said Adelaide football chief Phil Harper.

"He should have been joining his teammates celebrating a good win against the Lions; instead he was locked away in his room.

"We are quite angry that people chose to put the original footage in other forums, particularly social media.''

Rucci's Rip: A Showdown worth savouring

Henderson was captured on camera walking into the Adelaide rooms at half-time and opening his shorts out of concern for a groin injury.

It is unlikely Henderson will follow rugby league player Andrew Ettingshausen in legal action.

Ettingshausen was awarded $350,000 in damages - reduced to $100,000 on appeal - from a magazine that published a photograph of "ET" in the showers during the 1990 Kangaroos tour of Great Britain.

The REAL Showdown - Sanderson v Hinkley

Ettingshausen had the expectation of privacy in the team showers. But Henderson should have been aware of the cameras that have been placed in AFL team changerooms for more than 10 seasons.

"We thought everything filmed in the changerooms was shown on delay and the telecaster had the opportunity to drop images such as those of Henderson," Harper said.

"Ricky's quite distressed by it all. He plays footy - he is not worrying about cameras when he comes into the changerooms."

Beyond Fox Sport's error, Adelaide has taken exception to how Henderson was lampooned on Seven's Saturday night football coverage hosted by former VFL player Brian Taylor.

Match report - Crows beat the Lions

AFL Players' Association executive Ian Prendergast says his group will be questioning the telecasters.

"We'll follow up to find out why (the images were put to air)," said Prendergast.

"Cameras are in place in the changerooms on the basis player privacy will be respected."

A fatal motorcycle crash at Meningie, the debate over live changeroom cameras and the Reds out of the A-League finals

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The Barometer: Round 3

Sean Dempster played out Friday night's match with a broken hand. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Dale Thomas tries to get around Chris Giampaolo during the VFL match between Collingwood and North Ballarat at Victoria Park Picture: Harman Stephen Source: Herald Sun

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

ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Brodie Smith (collarbone) 1-2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Ian Callinan has struggled to make an impact inside the arc and should find his name bandied about at the selection table. Bernie Vince had an off day against the Lions but expect him to line up in Sunday's Showdown.

ON THE CUSP: Graham Johncock has been around long enough to know the importance of good timing. And the wily veteran delivered, kicking seven goals in the SANFL. Sam Kerridge was the standout for Sturt with 30 disposals, 10 tackles and eight clearances.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Scott Thompson stood up when the Crows needed a leader last Saturday night. The Lions had their rivals on the ropes for much of the second half with Rory Sloane and Patrick Dangerfield largely unsighted – until five minutes of matchwinning brilliance at the end. But Thompson was resolute, finishing with 31 possessions including eight inside-50s and seven clearances. The Crows will need much of the same to mow down their plucky Alberton rivals on Sunday. Sam Jacobs has the stoppages at his mercy while Tex Walker v Jay Schulz looms as a mouth-watering shootout. And wouldn't it be great if we saw these blokes going head-to-head: Dangerfield v Boak, Sloane v Hartlett and Thompson v Cornes.

BRISBANE

INJURIES
Simon Black (knee) 2 weeks
Michael Close (foot) 2 weeks
Brent Staker (knee) 3-4 weeks
Jesse O'Brien (adductor) 5-6 weeks
Stephen Wrigley (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: Pre-season bolter Patrick Karnezis can't be happy with his output thus far. Did little in Round 1, and started as the substitute against Adelaide. Mooted as a midfield/forward with upside, Karnezis was in 23 per cent of all Nissan SuperCoach teams last week. Reckon a few might be pulling the trigger on the boy from Oakleigh.

ON THE CUSP: Ryan Harwood was best afield in the Lions' NEAFL win over GWS Giants. Todd Banfield got plenty of it while young gun Sam Docherty was solid out of the defence. Jordan Lisle and Marco Paparone bagged two goals apiece.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Tough 0-2 start for the NAB Cup premiers and it's not going to get any easier in the Q-Clash. Despite the Lions' 3-1 record against the Suns, only one of those wins has come at Metricon Stadium. Daniel Rich copped another pasting under a hard tag while Jonathan Brown has plenty of room for improvement.

COLLINGWOOD

INJURIES
Clinton Young (hamstring) TBC
Darren Jolly (ribs) TBC
Dayne Beams (quad) 1 week
Luke Ball (knee) 1-2 weeks
Brodie Grundy (back) 3-5 weeks
Michael Hartley (shoulder) 5 weeks
Lachlan Keefe (knee) 5-7 weeks
Tim Broomhead (glandular fever) 8 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Darren Jolly looks set to miss after cracking a rib in the first quarter yesterday. The Pies' big man was taken to hospital in agony, but apart from that Collingwood was full of dazzling performers. But with premiership players ready to walk back into the side, Paul Seedsman, Brent Macaffer and perhaps veteran Ben Johnson could be getting nervous across the next few weeks.

ON THE CUSP: The Pies had Dale Thomas, Alex Fasolo, Alan Didak and Clinton Young play VFL on Saturday. Young injured his hamstring but the early word is it won't be too bad, while Thomas looks certain to face the Hawks this week. Ben Hudson, already promoted to the senior list, should replace Jolly if he doesn't come up this week.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: The Pies are 2-0 with a suddenly thinning injury list. They've regained Shaw, have Didak, Fasolo and Thomas available and should get Beams back next week. Jolly and Young sustained injuries at the weekend but both don't look too severe.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: Sam Dwyer is tipped to rise $81,000 next week and looks safe – for now – in Collingwood's side. He costs only $96,200 and is dual-position.

Dale Thomas tries to get around Chris Giampaolo during the VFL match between Collingwood and North Ballarat at Victoria Park Picture: Harman Stephen Source: Herald Sun

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats and more from every Round 2 match

CARLTON

INJURIES
Eddie Betts (jaw) 3 weeks
Shaun Hampson (appendicitis) 1 week
Patrick McCarthy (heel) test
Andrew Collins (ankle) 1 week
David Ellard (hamstring) 1 week
Jarrad Waite (calf) 1-2 weeks
Rhys O'Keeffe (foot) 2 weeks
Nick Graham (knee) 7 weeks
Andrew McInnes (knee) 10 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Youngster Josh Bootsma had his colours lowered against Jamie Elliott (five goals). Levi Casboult and Sam Rowe will be looking over their shoulders as Shaun Hampson pushes for selection.

ON THE CUSP: Heath Scotland will be a walk-up start for the Blues and a welcome inclusion down back after serving his two-match club suspension. Robbie Warnock starred in the ruck for the Northern Blues along with Ed Curnow (30 disposals) and Dylan Buckley.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: When master coach Mick Malthouse signed with Carlton, some at Visy Park and nearby Lygon St for that matter had September glory on their minds. Wonder what they're thinking now with the Blues staring down the barrel of a 0-3 start under the triple premiership coach. Geelong will punish the Blues unless they can find consistent avenues to goal. It worked yesterday with small-to-medium sized forwards lighting up the MCG. Casboult and Rowe (one goal) provided strong targets but failed to impact the scoreboard. This game is huge as the Blues travel west next week.

ESSENDON

INJURIES
Stewie Crameri (knee) TBC

ON THE BLOCK: No block at Bomberland with the Dons on top of the table and facing a showdown with the undefeated Dockers on Friday night. Crameri's knee must come up this week, while Nick Kommer is on the edge after starting as the sub and with a host of VFL players pressing. But even Kommer would be stiff after gathering nine disposals at 89 per cent efficiency in a quarter.

ON THE CUSP: Everyone. The Dons launched their stand-alone VFL side with a 90-point win on Friday night with Jason Winderlich booting eight goals in three quarters. By his own admission, Winderlich needs more game time at second-tier level, but Leroy Jetta thrust his hand up with 34 possessions in the midfield. Joe Daniher booted five while Tayte Pears applied pressure on the Dons' defence with a stellar performance at half-back. All smiles at Windy Hill.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: The Dons got the job done against Fremantle in Perth last year, albeit before both club's seasons spiralled in opposite directions. They enter with a clean bill of health, a dozen players pressing for promotion and full of form. Expect little change again ahead of the Friday night blockbuster.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: David Zahrakis has worn both the green and red vests in the first two weeks. That should translate to a price drop and he could be a bargain in about a month.

GALLERY: See the best 40 photos from Round 2

FREMANTLE

INJURIES
Zac Clarke (achilles) test
Anthony Morabito (knee) indefinite
Aaron Sandilands (hamstring) 8 weeks
Jesse Crichton (quadriceps) 1-2 weeks
Clancee Pearce (corkie) test

ON THE BLOCK: Clancee Pearce was substituted out of the match with a corkie but should keep his spot. No major injuries to come out of last Saturday's win against the Western Bulldogs.

ON THE CUSP: Alex Silvagni was the pick of the Dockers-listed players in the WAFL with 22 disposals and four marks.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: It's all systems go for the Dockers who will be looking for 3-0 launching pad into the season against Essendon on Friday night. Nat Fyfe is working up through his gears and Jon Griffin has stood up to replace Sandilands. Michael Walters has improved sharply with another Lyon pre-season under his belt. The small forward has kicked two bags of three against West Coast and the Western Bulldogs. Expect Bombers tagger Heath Hocking to get the job on Michael Barlow.

GEELONG

INJURIES
Daniel Menzel (knee) test
Jared Rivers (knee) test
Jordan Murdoch (hand) test
Steve Johnson (knee) 1-2 weeks
Josh Cowan (Achilles) indefinite
Hamish McIntosh (knee) indefinite
George Burbury (foot) indefinite
Jed Bews (foot) indefinite
Josh Hunt (glandular fever) indefinite
Dawson Simpson (back) Indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Mitch Brown was subbed out and could make way if Jared Rivers returns this week. Other than that it's hard to see the Cats making too many changes ahead of their clash against the Blues.

ON THE CUSP: The Cats' VFL side had a bye at the weekend, but impressed last week. George Horlin-Smith and Jesse Stringer are close to selection. Daniel Menzel should return through the VFL this week.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: Jimmy Bartel continued the Cats' perfect start to the season with this match-winning goal and expect little change to the winning formula. Another six-day break means Chris Scott might juggle a few names around to keep his side fresh, particularly with another short turnaround to follow ahead of Round 4. And keep an eye on first-round pick Jackson Thurlow. The man in Corey Enright's mould is edging towards an AFL debut.

Jimmy Bartel kicks the winning goal for Geelong. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

GOLD COAST

INJURIES
Greg Broughton (calf) TBC
Liam Patrick (hamstring) 1 week
Jacob Gilbee (suspension) 2 weeks
Seb Tape (knee) 2 weeks
Jesse Lonergan (wrist) 3 weeks
Campbell Brown (suspension) 4 weeks
Nathan Bock (leg) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Not too many after a Round 1 win and impressive fight for three quarters against the premiers. Zac Smith was beaten in the ruck, while Luke Russell was quiet and only tracked at 40 per cent efficiency.

ON THE CUSP: Ruckman Daniel Gorringe returned in the reserves and booted a goal. Clay Cameron was best-afield and is edging towards a debut, while Danny Stanley also put himself in the mix. Tom Lynch returned but might need one more week in the NEAFL for match conditioning.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: A first-up win followed by a competitive loss sets up a crunch Q-Clash against the winless Lions. And it's at Metricon – a ground the Suns suddenly know how to win at after victories against the Saints and Blues there. After that it's Port Adelaide at home and the Giants. Could the Suns be in the eight after Round 5?

SUPERCOACH WATCH: After a unique pick in the backline? Sun Charlie Dixon costs under $400k and has opened the year with scores of 130 and 123.

GWS

INJURIES
Taylor Adams (hip) TBC
Matthew Buntine (lung) 4 weeks
Dom Tyson (knee) 6 weeks
Chad Cornes (shoulder) Indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: The Giants burst out of the blocks but couldn't maintain the rage against the Power. Will Hoskin-Elliott started as the sub, which is never a good sign, while Curtly Hampton was quiet. Adam Kennedy and Rhys Palmer had 10 touches each and Kevin Sheedy doesn't mind rotating his side heavily.

ON THE CUSP: Plenty. Setant O'hAilpin booted three goals in the reserves, Anthony Miles was best-afield and No.2 draft pick Jono O'Rourke made a low-key return from a hamstring injury. He's a devastating midfielder who will add another dimension to this slick engine room sooner rather than later.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: The Giants' injury list is thinning nicely and, coupled with their improved efforts, makes the new side a touch more unpredictable. The Saints, Dees and Suns in the next three weeks should translate to at least one victory. And with Lachie Whitfield and Stephen Coniglio joining Dylan Shiel, Adam Treloar and Cal Ward as midfielders able to swing matches, the future is starting to look extremely scary.

HAWTHORN

INJURIES
Xavier Ellis (calf) 2 weeks
Matthew Suckling (knee) indefinite
Brendan Whitecross (knee) 6 weeks
Alex Woodward (knee) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: A stellar win in the west but expect a couple of changes as Alastair Clarkson freshens up his side for the Collingwood blockbuster. Jed Anderson was lively but could fall out of the side, while Shane Savage earned a late reprieve but was handed vest duties, making him vulnerable. Brad Sewell was subbed out with suspected hamstring tightness and will be monitored this week.

ON THE CUSP: Hawthorn's recycled talent is barging the door down. Brian Lake could bolster the back half after getting through his VFL return yesterday unscathed. He racked up 13 disposals, while former Cat Jon Simpkin was prolific with 31 disposals and is right on the verge of his Hawks debut. Matt Spangher also impressed, while ex-Dee Kyle Cheney had 20 touches and was named Box Hill's best. Jack Gunston is also available after making way at the last minute against West Coast.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: Hawthorn's nightmare scenario – a 0-2 start ahead of the Collingwood showdown – has been avoided after collecting the points in fine fashion in the west yesterday. That brings some relief, and with Hodge back and Brian Lake to follow things are looking up for Clarkson's side. Expect Simpkin – a dual Cats VFL best-and-fairest winner – to come in this week.

Hawthorn defender Brian Lake is no certainty to line up against West Coast on Sunday. Picture: Harman Stephen Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Jordie McKenzie (calf) TBC
Jack Fitzpatrick (concussion) test
Lynden Dunn (hamstring tightness) 1 week
Nathan Stark (knee) 1 week
Joel Macdonald (hamstring) 2 weeks
Chris Dawes (hamstring) 3 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: More like who isn't on the block? Just four Dees gathered more than 14 disposals. Ouch. The pressure will build on No.1 pick Jack Watts to retain his place this week, while Sam Blease, Colin Sylvia and David Rodan are all right on the edge. Does Mark Neeld keep swinging the axe or stick fat with his 22?

ON THE CUSP: At least the Dees playing for Casey yesterday showed some heart. Dean Kent was exceptional with his pace and must be close to an AFL debut. The 19-year-old kicked an amazing running goal after four bounces, while Luke Tapscott looks certain to return after booting 6.2 – including five in the first half – from 23 disposals. Rohan Bail is also ready to return, while Max Gawn dominated with two goals from 20 hitouts and he showed a bit of mongrel.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: Rightly or wrongly, it seems all the outside attention will focus on the Round 4 clash against GWS instead of Saturday's duel with West Coast. The pressure is mounting, but at least the Dees' injury list isn't too bad and there are players at Casey putting their hands up.

Demons v Bombers, MCG, Jack Watts, Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: HWT Image Library

NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Nil

ON THE BLOCK: It was a tough day at the office for highly-rated youngster Kieran Harper, subbed off during the third quarter with just six disposals to his name. Harper also had three clangers which won't help his cause. Lachie Hansen failed to fire a shot, registering seven disposals and three marks.

ON THE CUSP: Brad McKenzie could push for selection after beating Magpie veteran Alan Didak in a head-to-head VFL battle at the weekend. The 2011 No.18 pick collected 27 disposals at 93 per cent efficiency playing for North Ballarat. Didak picked up 22 touches. Majak Daw booted two goals for Werribee. Meanwhile, Bees ruckman Daniel Currie struggled to make an impact after dislocating a finger in the first quarter against the Northern Blues.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: North would be filthy after dropping two winnable games thus far. The Swans pose more problems for the Brad Scott's men who must find a way to play four solid quarters of football. Aaron Mullett has been a revelation off half-back while Lindsay Thomas' mojo is well and truly back. Todd Goldstein did a power of work last week and must repeat the dose against in-form Swans combination Mike Pyke and Shane Mumford.

PORT ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Brett Ebert (adductor) test
Hamish Hartlett (back) available
Jay Schulz (ankle) available

ON THE BLOCK: Power coach Ken Hinkley expects both Hartlett and Schulz, subbed out with an ankle injury, to be right for the Showdown. Kane Mitchell is vulnerable having started as the substitute the past couple of weeks.

ON THE CUSP: John Butcher (five goals) must come into consideration for Sunday's grudge match against cross-town rivals Adelaide. Andrew Moore showed promise with 22 touches including eight clearances for North Adelaide.

GILBERT GARDINER FORECAST: All going well at Alberton under rookie coach Hinkley. The midfield is working a treat with Boak, Hartlett and Cornes showing positive signs. Expect Ollie Wines to bounce back after a quiet week. Port will be looking to turn the tables after losing the past three Showdowns. Schulz is central to the Power's chances of success and a 3-0 dream start to the season.

RICHMOND

INJURIES
Nathan Foley (Achilles) 4-6 weeks
David Astbury (foot) 1-2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Brandon Ellis could be in trouble after being subbed off in Round 1 and starting in the subs vest on Friday night, although he had an impact when he came on late. Hard to find another player who deserves to be dropped on form but team balance might be an issue – do the Tigers need so many tall and medium defenders against the Bulldogs?

ON THE CUSP: Former Crow Chris Knights put a battering ram through Damien Hardwick's proverbial selection door when he picked up 41 disposals in Coburg's big win against Sandringham yesterday. Knights, who was picked up as a free agent at the end of last season, also registered eight clearances, eight inside-50s and a goal and could be the mid-sized forward the Tigers need. Others to impress in the VFL included Aaron Edwards (four goals and 17 disposals), Brad Helbig (26 touches) and Robin Nahas (22 and six tackles). Nick Vlastuin (16 disposals) might have to wait another week.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The last time Richmond won the first three matches of a season was in 1995, when the Tigers went on to win the first eight and make a preliminary final. We don't want to get ahead of ourselves but momentum is building at Punt Rd and depth is no longer a problem. They should have the Dogs covered, then comes a serious test with matches against Collingwood, Fremantle (in Perth) and Geelong.

ST KILDA

INJURIES
Daniel Markworth (knee) season
Sean Dempster (hand) 3 weeks
James Gwilt (knee) 3-5 weeks
Farren Ray (hip) 1-2 weeks
Tom Hickey (foot) 1 week
Jackson Ferguson (knee) 4 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Dempster is a big loss to an already depleted backline. Arryn Siposs was subbed out on Friday night with just nine disposals but he'll be given more chances. Scott Watters says Stephen Milne won't be dropped but he would be keen for a big game. So far in 2013 he has kicked 2.4 – and registered just one tackle. The Saints' other small forwards flashed in and out of the game against Richmond and all had their moments, but how many do they need? Probably a question for the list manager.

ON THE CUSP: Worryingly, the most eye-catching performance in the VFL came from yet another small forward, with Trent Dennis-Lane kicking five goals. Top draft pick Nathan Wright was impressive at half-back and could make his debut as Dempster's replacement, with Tom Simpkin another option. Justin Koschitzke kicked two goals as did mature-age recruit Tom Lee, but neither was listed in the best players.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Saints were in the game for the full 120 minutes against Richmond but could never quite bridge the gap the Tigers established early. They should register their first win of the season against GWS in Canberra on Saturday, although it's unlikely to be as easy as the 128-point romp the last time the two teams played. After that life doesn't get any easier with assignments against Essendon, Sydney, Collingwood and Carlton. Some good news from Friday night was Sam Fisher and Adam Schneider got through unscathed in their returns from injury – Schneider had a big influence after being subbed on – and both should be a lot better this week.

SYDNEY

INJURIES
Alex Johnson (knee) indefinite
Gary Rohan (leg) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Substitute Craig Bird made the most of his time on the ground picking up seven disposals – four contested – in the final quarter.

ON THE CUSP: Mitch Morton was solid last time out with three goals in the reserves while Dean Rampe could return after being omitted last week.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: No risks for the Swans as it's all about getting through each match with the four premiership points and no injuries. After comfortably accounting for GWS and Gold Coast, the Swans can expect a tougher task against a North Melbourne outfit stung by two close losses. But the Bloods boast an imposing record over their rivals, having defeated the Kangaroos the past six times. Jarrad McVeigh is off to a flyer while Luke Parker is finally stepping into Jude Bolton's shoes. Watch for Adam Goodes to step up after a slow start to his 15th season.

WEST COAST

INJURIES
Daniel Kerr (knee) test
Eric Mackenzie (hamstring) test
Patrick McGinnity (back) test
Mark LeCras (arm) test
Nic Naitanui (groin) 2 weeks
Matt Rosa (quad) 3 weeks
Sharrod Wellingham (ankle) 4 weeks
Mark Nicoski (hamstring) 6-8 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Small forward Ashton Hams could find himself back in the WAFL after picking up just two disposals in three quarters. Substitute Bradd Dalziell provided a bit of dash when activated while former Saint Jamie Cripps (eight disposals, three clangers) put in a below-par effort.

ON THE CUSP: Eagles star Daniel Kerr collected 23 disposals including three inside-50s for East Fremantle and should make the trip to Melbourne. Remarkably, Mark LeCras is also a chance to play just two weeks after breaking his arm in the opening round. But Eric Mackenzie is likely to miss another week with a tight hamstring. Small forward Murray Newman was handy in his state league match, picking up 15 disposals and five marks including seven inside-50s.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: It's getting serious now for the Eagles who have been hamstrung with injuries to key players. But Saturday's task against Melbourne should be a no-brainer. The Eagles need Kerr back to relieve the pressure on Matthew Priddis around the stoppages. But match fitness – or lack of – could decide his fate. The substitute's vest might be the answer. Spearhead Josh Kennedy kicked five in three quarters against the Hawks. How many can he pile on against Melbourne?

WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES
Easton Wood (hamstring) available
Dylan Addison (hamstring) test
Tom Williams (foot) test
Matthew Boyd (calf) 1 week
Nathan Hrovat (calf) 1-2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: The Dogs lost to the Dockers but showed fight to the end, meaning little change can again be expected. Ayce Cordy was quiet but is developing nicely and should be safe, while small forwards Shaun Higgins, Daniel Giansiracusa and Tory Dickson were well held. But after their Round 1 heroics – and invaluable experience and class – they've got nothing to fear.

ON THE CUSP: Affiliate Williamstown had the bye at the weekend, but several Dogs got minutes in the legs in the VFL reserves on Saturday. Of those pressing for selection, prized draft picks Jake Stringer and Jackson Macrae are at the top of the list. Stringer's mature body has him primed for an early-season debut, while Macrae's scintillating second half for the Seagulls last week was full of tricks that elevated him to the 25-man squad against Fremantle.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: The Dogs beat Fremantle in disposals, contested possessions and conceded just one fewer inside-50 against the Dockers and were made to pay for their slow start out of the blocks. They now prepare for the undefeated Tigers in Daniel Cross's 200th match. Expect Nick Lower to tag Trent Cotchin, but there is likely to be little change at the selection table, save for Easton Wood's likely inclusion.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: Tom Liberatore's contested style has been heavily rewarded in the first two weeks. He scored 133 on Saturday and you can grab him this week before a projected price rise of about $50,000.

Welcome to the major league, lads: Jake Stringer and Jackson Macrae after being selected at No.5 and No.6 by the Western Bulldogs. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

AFL OFFICIALS

INJURIES
Courtney Lai (knee) season

Goal umpire Lai ruptured his ACL and PCL in this collision with Bulldog Liam Picken on Saturday. He'll have surgery on Thursday.
 

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