A review was needed, say AFL

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick has blasted the umpires for not calling for a goal review in a decision that could have cost the Tigers victory against Fremantle.

Fremantle post a thrilling one-point victory over Richmond in their AFL clash at Patersons Stadium.

Fremantle coach Ross Lyon addresses the media after his side's thrilling one-point win over Richmond.

Tigers coach Damien Hardwick shows his anger after losing the match by one point to the Dockers. Picture: Paul Kane. Source: Getty Images

THE AFL has conceded a score review should have been called in the dying minutes of last night's Fremantle and Richmond clash at Patersons Stadium.

Tiger Matt White snapped a shot at goal with about four minutes remaining that would have put his side four points in front.

The ball bounced in to the leg of the goal umpire standing against the post as it appeared set to cross the goal line.

Play on was called, before the Dockers took the ball over the line for a rushed behind.

A furious Damien Hardwick labelled the call a "joke" after the game and insisted a score review should have been called for because, from his vantage point, he felt the ball had crossed the line for a call.

AFL spokesman Patrick Keane admitted today the goal umpire made an error.

"(The) AFL view is that a review should have been called by goal umpire last night,'' Keane said.

The AFL will also ask the umpiring department to review line positioning of goal umpires.

Both Hardwick and Fremantle coach Ross Lyon believed the ball had gone through for a goal before bouncing off the umpire's leg and back into play

Freo break Richmond hearts

White ended up kicking a goal a minute later to give Richmond the lead, but Dockers goalsneak Hayden Ballantyne snapped the winner with 84 seconds left to secure the 12.9 (81) to 12.8 (80) triumph.

"We've got this fantastic thing called a review system haven't we? Fair dinkum,'' Hardwick said. "Use it, or don't bother.

"At the end of the day there's a field umpire, a goal umpire, and four or five blokes sitting up in a box upstairs. Someone make a decision.

"Seriously, in a tight game - joke.''

Lyon said he understood Hardwick's frustrations all too well.

In the 2009 grand final when Lyon was coach of St Kilda, Geelong forward Tom Hawkins was awarded a goal despite his shot shaving the post.

The Cats ended up winning the match by 12 points.

"I've seen the other side of the coin,'' Lyon said. "At the end of the day, we're all humans. We all make mistakes.

"Damien is entitled to voice an opinion but I'll leave it to the papers and the AFL to sort it out.''

Hardwick was confident captain Trent Cotchin would be fit for Saturday night's clash with Geelong at the MCG.
Cotchin hyper-extended his knee late in the second quarter, but managed to play out the match and finished with 26 possessions and seven clearances.

Tigers debutant Nick Vlastuin put in a gutsy effort in defence, while former Crow Chris Knights played his best game for Richmond with three goals from 20 possessions.

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Suns too strong for Giants

Gold Coast Suns claim their biggest win in their short history, after a 44-point win over Greater Western Sydney.

• GOLD COAST SUNS 21.22 (148) GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY GIANTS 16.8 (104)

THE GWS Giants look destined for another rough education in the school of hard knocks that is AFL football.

Kevin Sheedy's boys are rooted to the bottom of the ladder following Saturday's loss to the Gold Coast Suns without a win after five matches. The prospect of their first victory remains a long way off with matches against Essendon, Adelaide, Hawthorn and West Coast to come.

Records tumbled in Canberra as the Suns kicked their highest score and big man Charlie Dixon became the first Gold Coast player to kick six goals in a match.

In what looks like a serious case of the second-year blues, the Giants have lost to three teams who finished in the bottom five last year - Port Adelaide , Melbourne and now the Gold Coast.

Live HQ: SuperCoach stats, scores

Only a handful of GWS players could hold their head high at the end of match. Callan Ward, Jeremy Cameron, Devon Smith Toby Greene and Dylan Shiel were all solid contributors, but their defence remains a massive problem as opposition forwards continue to have their way with them week after week.

Sixteen goals was a reasonable return for the Giants, but conceding 21 goals to the Suns put any chance of a victory out of range. Dixon, Gary Ablett and Zac Smith (three goals each) were unstoppable.

Ablett set the match up for the visitors with 19 possessions in the first half and gave Tom Scully the run-around in the first quarter, picking up nine disposals.

Fortunately, for the Giants the damage of Ablett's hot start was limited in the opening term as scores were locked at three goals a piece.

Goals to the Giants' Rhys Palmer, Cameron and Setanta O'hAilpin were cancelled out by goals to Dixon, Steven May and Jaeger O'Meara.

Greater Western Sydney coach Kevin Sheedy takes positives out of loss to the Gold Coast Suns.

Steve Coniglio earned a rising star nomination in the corresponding match last year and provided an inspirational moment for his teammates at the end of the term by sprinting 50m to smother a kick by Michael Rischitelli.

Canberra was the scene of the Giants' first win over the Suns last year, but this time they met a Gold Coast team in much better form.

Led by Ablett, who was moved forward in the second quarter, the Suns kicked the three straight.

The Giants stemmed the flow temporarily with a monster 80m goal from Devon Smith. It was an effort of which AFL great and Suns football director Malcolm Blight would have been proud, with Smith using the torpedo punt to land the major.

Long goals became the order of the day for GWS, with Jeremy Cameron and Dylan Shiel landing left-foot bombs from outside the 50m arc.

Relieved of the job on Ablett, with Toby Greene taking the job, Scully pushed forward and goaled on the run.

But the Giants defence was no match for the tall timber in the Suns forward line.

Dixon was dominant for his side, as he booted three goals for the quarter and ruckman Zac Smith chipped in with one.

Their return of 7.8 was the highest score for a single term in the Suns' short existence, passing the previous record of 7.3 set against North Melbourne last year and set up the victory.

GWS's Lachie Whitfield and Phil Davis under pressure from Gold Coast Suns Charlie Dixon . Picture: Kym Smith

Gold Coast forward Charlie Dixon booted a club record six goals to help the Suns defeat the Giants. Picture: Kym Smith

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LIVE: Cats, Eagles lead at HT

Tom Hawkins is a late out for Geelong. Source: Herald Sun

THE Western Bulldogs take on Geelong and Port Adelaide meet West Coast. Follow the live coverage right here.

HALF-TIME

Western Bulldogs 6.3 (39) Geelong 10.9 (69)

THE Cats are on top at the Dome.

They lead by 30 points at half-time, but they have their injury concerns.

Defender Jared Rivers has been subbed off with a knee injury, and we are awaiting the result of Josh Caddy's concussion test.

Caddy copped what appeared to be an elbow to the jaw by Bulldog Brett Goodes.

Steven Motlop celebrates his goal in the second quarter. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

Port Adelaide 2.5 (17) West Coast 7.13 (55)

West Coast are in control at AAMI Stadium against a flat Power outfit.

Josh Kennedy, who has kicked four goals, has been a read headache for the home side.

Veteran Darren Glass has been reported for a high hit on Paul Stewart.

Jackson Trengove and Chad Wingard try to hold onto Jamie Cripps Picture: Reed Sarah Source: The Advertiser

QUARTER-TIME

Western Bulldogs 3.1 (19) Geelong 5.5 (35)

Controversy at the Dome.

Late in the term, it should have been a free kick for out on the full to the Bulldogs deep in their forward line.

The umpire accidentally awards it to Geelong, robbing the Bulldogs of a shot at goal. Cats go down the other end and kicks two quick goals.

But it's not all good news for the Cats.

Defender Jared Rivers has been subbed out with a knee injury.

Joel Selwood bursts out of the middle. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

Port Adelaide 1.0 (6) West Coast 4.4 (28)

THE Power have been jumped at AAMI Stadium.

After such a good start to the year, they look flat tonight against the Eagles.

Josh Kennedy is doing the damage with three goals.

But the Eagles have lost midfielder Matt Priddis, who was knocked out after being tackled with his arms pinned.

His head hit the turd hard and he was stretchered off.

Matt Priddis after being concussed. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

PRE-GAME

The big news is forward Tom Hawkins is a late out for the Cats and will be replaced in the side by Cameron Guthrie.

Taylor Hunt is the Cats' sub tonight.

The Bulldogs will go into the clash at Etihad Stadium as selected with Jackson Macrae in the green vest.

LIVE HQ- Get all the stats and SuperCoach scores here

Over at AAMI Stadium, Jasper Pittard is out for the Power with Lewis Stevenson in.

Robbie Gray is the sub.

While the Eagles are unchanged with Jamie Cripps to don the green vest.

The ball will be bounced at the Dome at 7:40pm AEST and at AAMI Stadium at 7:45pm AEST.

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Walker hurt as Blues win

Adelaide spearhead Taylor Walker is expected to miss 6-10 weeks after straining the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during the first quarter against Carlton.

Taylor Walker is helped from the ground. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

Taylor Walker sits on the bench after injuring his knee against Carlton. Source: Getty Images

ADELAIDE spearhead Taylor Walker faces a significant stint on the sidelines after injuring his right knee early in the 32-point loss to improving Carlton at the MCG.

The Crows would have realised they were in for a tough afternoon when the Blues kicked the first three goals of the game.

But that difficult task became significantly harder when Walker was carried off midway through the opening term after landing awkwardly in a marking contest.

He was subbed out of the match almost immediately with what was suspected to be a posterior cruciate ligament injury.

Without their best key forward, Adelaide struggled for most of the day for goals.

But they did mount a brave challenge in the final term to get the margin down to as little as 17 points, before the Blues steadied to win 17.13 (115) to 12.11 (83).

Chris Yarran in action. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Converted forward Chris Yarran kicked the sealer for the Blues with six minutes to go, curling home a clever right-footed effort from a tight angle.

The Blues got very little from their key forwards Sam Rowe and Shaun Hampson, but it mattered little as the likes of Jeff Garlett (four goals), Yarran (three) and Brock McLean (two) found other ways to score.

The Blues led by 28 points at the first change and increased the margin to 41 points at three-quarter time before Adelaide made their run.

Simon White and Sam Jacobs colide. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

Matthew Jaensch and Andy Otten were the Crows' leading goalscorers with three apiece.

It was Carlton's second win in succession after they had started the Mick Malthouse era with three straight losses.

Adelaide also have a 2-3 win-loss record heading into a tough clash against Hawthorn at AAMI Stadium next Saturday.

Brock McLean and Chris Yarran celebrate a goal. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

The Blues return to the MCG to take on struggling Melbourne in eight days' time.

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Teams: Tiges swing four changes

Shane Crawford is in Hawaii but he's still thinking about SuperCoach - and Travis Cloke.

A further blow for St Kilda with Stephen Milne set to miss Thursday's Anzac Day match against Sydney in Wellington.

Shane Tuck won't play against Fremantle. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

MIDFIELDER Shane Tuck has lost his place in Richmond's side ahead of Friday night's crunch clash against Fremantle at Patersons Stadium.

Tuck was listed as "rested" and one of four omissions from a Tigers side that has been relatively settled up until now.

The Tigers also lost Reece Conca (foot), defender Troy Chaplin (calf) and Steve Morris (suspended).

Tuck has been worryingly out of form this year, with the latest blow yet again placing him at footy's crossroads.

The Tigers are set to unveil prized first-round pick Nick Vlastuin, while speedster Matt White, Brad Helbig and Jake Batchelor also earned reprieves.

Geelong has lost Paul Chapman (hamstring) but regained James Kelly as it looks to continue its unbeaten run against a decimated Western Bulldogs.

Stars Ryan Griffen and Daniel Giansiracusa have joined Shaun Higgins, Easton Wood, Robert Murphy and Tory Dickson out injured.

Melbourne will rest gun teenager Jack Viney ahead of its trip to face Brisbane, which could make up to eight changes.

ESSENDON v COLLINGWOOD, Thursday 2.40pm at the MCG

ESSENDON

B: M.Hibberd 1, C.Hooker 26, M.Baguley 46
HB: B.Stanton 5, J.Carlisle 22, B.Goddard 9
C: D.Heppell 21, J.Watson 4, C.Dempsey 15
HF: J.Merrett 20, D.Hille 19, S.Gumbleton 3
F: K.Hardingham 34, S.Crameri 12, A.Davey 29
Foll: T.Bellchambers 2, B.Howlett, 40, J.Winderlich 8
I/C: D.Zaharakis 11, D.Myers 23, H.Hocking 39, T.Colyer, 32
Emerg: N.Lovett-Murray 42, J.Melksham 17, T.Pears 16

In: Hardingham, Colyer, Crameri
Out: Hurley (ankle), Pears, Melksham

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COLLINGWOOD

B: N.Brown 16, A.Toovey 34, B.Reid 20
HB: M.Clarke 9, H.Shaw 39, H.O'Brien 8
C: S.Sidebottom 22, D.Swan 36, D.Thomas 13
HF: J.Elliott 19, T.Cloke 32, Q.Lynch 21
F: B.Sinclair 28, T.Goldsack 6, S.Dwyer 41
Foll: B.Hudson 25, S.Pendlebury 10, J.Blair 11
I/C: A.Fasolo 1, J.Russell 2, B.Macaffer, 3, P.Seedsman 40
Emerg: J.Witts 15, J.Thomas 24, B.Kennedy 27

In: Goldsack
Out: J.Thomas

ST KILDA v SYDNEY, Thursday 5.50pm in Wellington

ST KILDA
B: N.Wright 34, S.Fisher 25, D.Roberton 17
HB: S.Dempster 24, R.Stanley 28, S.Gilbert 19
C: L.Hayes 7, C.Jones 4, J.Geary 14
HF: D.Armitage 20, N.Riewoldt 12, N.Dal Santo 26
F: A.Saad 21, S.Ross 6, J.Saunders 35
Foll: B.McEvoy 5, J.Steven 3, L.Montagna 11
I/C: T.Dennis-Lane 8, T. Lee 9, J.Koschitzke 23, B.Murdoch 30
Emerg: A.Siposs 2, T.Hickey 1, F.Ray 22

In: Koschitzke, Dempster, Lee, Murdoch, Saunders
Out: Milne (suspension), Maister (hand), Simpkin, Milera, Ray

SYDNEY

B: D.Rampe 43, H.Grundy 39, N.Smith 40
HB: M.Mattner 29, T.Richards 25, N.Malceski 9
C: K.Jack 15, R.O'Keefe 5, L.Jetta 32
HF: J.Bolton 24, S.Reid20, D.Hannebery 4
F: M.Pyke 38, A.Goodes 37, B.McGlynn 21
Foll: S.Mumford 41, J.Kennedy 12, J.McVeigh 3
I/C: T.Armstrong 19, C.Bird 14, A.Everitt 13, L Parker 26
Emerg: J.White 18, T.Walsh 17, M.Morton 10

In:Bird, Everitt
Out: L. Roberts-Thomson (knee), Morton

Fremantle v Richmond, Patersons Stadium, Friday night

Fremantle
B: L.Spurr 34, Z.Dawson3, M.Johnson 37
HB: C.Pearce 46, L.McPharlin 18, P.Duffield 41
C: T.Mzungu 13, R.Crowley 15, D.Pearce 6
HF: H.Ballantyne 1, K.Bradley 26, N.Fyfe 7
F: J.Hannath 38, C.Mayne 23, M.Walters 10
Foll: J.Griffin, 12, D.Mundy 16, S.Hill 32
I/C: M.Barlow 21, L.Neale 27, M.De Boer 9, G.Ibbotson 5
Emg: H.Crozier 17, A.Silvagni 36, N.Suban 8

In: L.McPharlin, G.Ibbotson, J.Hannath
Out: N.Suban, C.Sutcliffe, Ta.Smith (hamstring)
New: J.Hannath

Richmond
B: J.Batchelor 11, A.Rance 18, B.Helbig 32
HB: D.Grimes 2, R.Petterd 13, B.Houli 14
C: C.Newman 1, T.Cotchin 9, M.White 35
HF: B.Deledio 3, S.Edwards 10, D.Jackson 23
F: L.McGuane 16, J.Riewoldt 8, T.Vickery 29
Foll: I.Maric 20, D.Martin 4, N.Vlastuin 31
I/C: B.Ellis 5, J.King 28, S.Grigg 6, C.Knights 15
Emerg: A.Edwards 27, R.Nahas 26, M.Dea 7

In: M.White, J.Batchelor, B.Helbig, N.Vlastuin
Out: S.Tuck (rested), T.Chaplin (calf), S.Morris (suspension), R.Conca (foot)
New: N.Vlastuin

Greater Western Sydney v Gold Coast, Manuka Oval, 1.45pm Saturday

GWS
B: A.Kennedy 40, T.Mohr39, L.Plowman 30
HB: N.Haynes 19, P.Davis 1, S.Reid 23
C: T.Scully 9, C.Ward 8, L.Whitfield 6
HF: R.Palmer 7, J.Cameron 18, A.Tomlinson 20
F: D.Smith 10, S.O'hAilpin 37, Z.Williams 51
Foll: J.Giles 26, A.Treloar 17, D.Shiel5
I/C: S.Coniglio 3, T.Greene 4, T.Bugg 14, B.Thornton 46
Emg: C.Hampton 2, J.Townsend 31, S.Frost 48

In: B.Thornton, D.Smith, A.Tomlinson, L.Plowman, Z.Williams
Out: S.Gilham, A.Miles, J.Townsend, L.Sumner, S.Frost
New: Z.Williams

Gold Coast
B: T.McKenzie 18, S.May 17, J.Hutchins 34
HB: T.Murphy 29, R.Thompson 16, G.Broughton 36
C: M.Rischitelli 35, G.Ablett 9, J.Harbrow 5
HF: D.Stanley 25, TJ.Lynch 19, A.Hall 33
F: Z.Smith 2, S.Day 12, B.Matera 32
Foll: C.Dixon 23, K.Hunt 7, D.Swallow 24
I/C: D.Prestia 10, J.O'Meara 1, J.Brennan 3, M.Shaw 26,
Emerg: K.Horsley 42, L.Russell 8, T.Sumner 39

In: D.Stanley, T.McKenzie, TJ.Lynch
Out: M.Warnock (arm), L.Russell, J.Wilkinson (ankle)

Carlton v Adelaide, MCG, 4.40pm Saturday

Carlton
B: C Yarran 13, M Jamison 40, L Henderson 23
HB: Z Tuohy 42, D Armfield 27, B Gibbs 4
C: K Simpson 6, A Carrazzo 44, M Robinson 12
HF: C Judd 5, A Walker 1, J Garlett 38
F: E Curnow 35, S Hampson 22, S Rowe 17
Foll: R Warnock 11, M Murphy 3, B McLean 14
I/C: E Betts 19, K Lucas 9, H Scotland 29, S White 43
Emerg: L Casboult 41, D Ellard 46, A Joseph 45

In: E Betts
Out: A Joseph (omitted)

Adelaide
B: L Brown 16, B Rutten 25, A Otten 22
HB: D Mackay 14, D Talia 12, B Reilly 3
C: R Douglas 26, S Thompson 5, B Smith 26
HF: S Kerridge 29, J Jenkins 4, J Petrenko 23
F: T Lynch 27, T Walker 13, M Wright 11
Foll: S Jacobs 24, P Dangerfield 32, R Sloane 9
I/C: M Jaensch 10, B Vince 17, R Henderson 45, R Laird 46
Emerg: J Lyons 31, S McKernan 35, J Porplyzia 40

In: B Vince, B Smith
Out: J Porplyzia (omitted), B Crouch (hamstring).

Western Bulldogs v Geelong, Etihad Stadium, Saturday 7.40pm

Western Bulldogs
B: B Goodes 44, J Roughead 23, T Young 31
HB: J Johannisen 39, D Morris 38, A Cooney 17
C: N Lower 33, M Boyd 5, T Liberatore 21
HF: J Tutt 15, J Stringer 9, L Dahlhaus 6
F: L Picken 42, L Jones 19, J Macrae 11
Foll: W Minson 27, C Smith 14, M Wallis 3
I/C: D Cross 4, P Veszpremi 8, K Stevens 25, M Austin 47
Emerg: D Pearce 20, C Howard 30, L Markovic 37

In: M Austin, P Veszpremi, C Smith
Out: A Cordy, R Griffen (shoulder), D Giansiracusa (shoulder)

Geelong
B: T Hunt 19, T Lonergan 13, C Enright 44
HB: J Corey 11, J Rivers 25, A Mackie 4
C: M Duncan 22, J Bartel 3, J Kelly 9
HF: A Christensen 28, H Taylor 7, S Motlop 32
F: T West 12, T Hawkins 26, J Podsiadly 31
Foll: M Blicavs 46, J Selwood 14, M Stokes 27
I/C: G Horlin-Smith 33, J Caddy 23, S Johnson 20, B Smedts 2
Emerg: M Brown 1, J Murdoch 21, C Guthrie 29

In: James Kelly
Out: Paul Chapman

Port Adelaide v West Coast, AAMI Stadium, Saturday 7.45pm
Port Adelaide
B: T. Jonas 42, A. Carlisle 27, C. Heath 3
HB: J.Pittard 29, J.Trengove 12, D.Cassisi 25
C: K.Cornes 18, T.Boak 1, Bra.Ebert 7,
HF: P.Stewart 14, J.Westhoff 39, M.Broabent 5
F: R.Gray 9, J.Schulz 28, C.Wingard 20
Foll: B.Renouf 4, O.Wines 16, H.Hartlett 8
I/C: M.Lobbe 23, A.Monfries 6, J.Neade 32, C.O'Shea 13
Emg: S.Colquhoun 30, L.Stevenson 15, M.Thomas 21

In: P Stewart
Out: L Stevenson

West Coast
B: S.Hurn 25, D.Glass 23, J.Brennan 14
HB: B.Waters 8, E.Mackenzie 16, S.Butler 26
C: C.Masten 7, M.Priddis 11, A.Gaff 3
HF: J.Cripps 15, J.Kennedy 15, M.LeCras 2
F: C.Sinclair 22, J.Darling 27, D.Kerr 4
Foll: D.Cox 20, S.Selwood 10, L.Shuey 13
I/C: AS.Hams 43, B.Dalziell 18, M.Brown 1, J.Hill 33
Emg: M.Hutchings 34, As. Smith 28, W.Schofield 31

In: B Waters, M Brown
Out: A Selwood, W Schofield

Brisbane Lions v Melbourne, Gabba, 3.15pm Sunday
Brisbane Lions
B: J.Adcock 7, D.Merrett 21, E.Yeo 26
HB: J.Patfull 24, J.Clarke 42, M.Golby 41
C: J.Polkinghorne 31, B.Moloney 3, S.Mayes 32,
HF: M.Paparone 22, J.Brown16, R.Bewick 8
F: J.Green 6, A.Cornelius 44, D.Zorko 15
Foll: M.Leuenberger 23, A.Raines 29, J.Redden 30
I/C from: S.Docherty 1, B.Longer 5, A.McGrath 9, P.Karnezis 28, R.Lester 35, J.Crisp 47, T.Rockliff 38

In: J.Polkinghorne , A.Cornelius , P.Karnezis , R.Lester , B.Longer , E.Yeo , J.Crisp , J.Clarke
Out: P.Hanley (suspension), D.Rich (shoulder), S.Martin (ankle) , R.Harwood (omitted) , N.McKeever (omitted)

Melbourne
B: J.Watts 4, J.Frawley8, D.Terlich 46,
HB: J.Grimes 31, T.McDonald 25, C.Garland 20
C: J.Trengove 9, C.Sylvia 12, S.Blease 17
HF: R.Bail 44, C.Pedersen 21, J.Howe 38
F: D.Rodan 15, M.Gawn 37, S.Byrnes 10
Foll: M.Jamar 40, M.Evans 32, N.Jones 2
I/C from: J.McKenzie 13, J. Strauss 19, D.Nicholson 26, L.Tapscott 35, A.Davey 36, J.Spencer 42, M.Jones 45,

In: D.Rodan, J.McKenzie, J.Spencer, S.Blease, J. Strauss, D.Nicholson
Out: N.Jetta (suspended), J.Viney (rested), M.Clark (foot).

Hawthorn v North Melbourne, MCG, 4.40pm Sunday

Hawthorn
B: J.Gibson 6, B.Lake 17, L.Hodge 15
HB: G.Birchall 14, B.Stratton 24, S.Burgoyne 9,
C: I.Smith 16, S.Mitchell 5, B.Hill 10
HF: L.Breust 22, L.Franklin 23, P.Puopolo 28
F: L.Shiels 26, J.Roughead 2, D. Hale 20
Foll: M.Bailey 39, J.Lewis 3, C.Rioli 33
I/C from: J.Gunston 19, M.Spangher 27, S.Savage 21, M.Osborne 7, B.Guerra 18, J.Kelly 34, K.Cheney 13

In: B.Guerra, B.Lake, M.Spangher, K.Cheney, J.Kelly
Out: R.Schoenmakers (knee), T.Duryea (corked thigh)

North Melbourne
B: S.McMahon 42, S.Thompson 16,M.Firrito 11
HB: A.Mullett 41, N.Grima 17, J.Macmillan 34
C: D.Wells 8, S.Atley 18, S.Wright 19
HF: R.Bastinac 3, B.Cunnington 10, T.Hine 26
F: L.Thomas 12, D.Petrie 20, L.Adams 13,
Foll: T.Goldstein 22, A.Swallow 9, J.Ziebell 7
I/C from: B.McKenzie 2, L.Anthony 4, L.Hansen 6, W.Sierakowski 28, A.Black 35, M.Daw 38, S.Gibson 43

In: W.Sierakowski , A.Black, B.McKenzie New: W.Sierakowski

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Bombers here to stay

Essendon claim ANZAC Day honours with massive 46-point win over Collingwood.

Jobe Watson celebrates a goal with Essendon fans. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

Travis Cloke misses a shot at goal. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON left the MCG with a clear statement: It is a serious contender.

Not might, or will, or could be - is.

The Bombers dismantled Collingwood with a 12-goal second half, the final quarter a six-goal to three blitz which came after the Magpies kicked the first two goals of the term.

They were challenged at the end of the first quarter, through the middle of the second and third quarters and at the start of the final quarter.

Each time, they responded with a run of goals, including a run of four in the third quarter, and five to finish the game.

That would be disturbing for Magpies coach Nathan Buckley.

His team was opened up by Hawthorn at the same venue in Round 3 and again yesterday.

When it happens once it can be an aberration. When it happens twice inside three weeks it is a concerning trend.

LiveHQ: Full stats, SuperCoach points and more

Just like the Hawks game, the Pies were overran in the final quarter, which means it is either a fitness issue or they aren't good enough.

The final score was 18.13 (121) to 10.15 (75).

The Bombers put Scott Pendlebury under pressure. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Bombers coach James Hird praised the overall team defence yesterday, but also singled out a back group which has held steady throughout the five-zip start.

Yesterday, Jake Carlisle contained Travis Cloke (six marks, two goals), Michael Hibberd and Courtenay Dempsey created off the flanks, Mark Baguley subdued Jamie Elliott (nine touches, one goal) and Kyle Hardingham and Cale Hooker were steady enough.

Everyone's talking about our offence, but not giving us enough credit for our defence. Look at the stats. Look at them.

Overall, the Bombers are defensive demons.

It is the No.1 improvement from last year to this.

Hird admitted yesterday his midfield needed a ''change of mindset'' and Heath Hocking agreed.

Pendlebury turns torch on 'cheating' Pies

Hocking took Pendlebury yesterday and, although beaten, he was part of a midfield which had more depth of contribution than Collingwood.

Ron Reed: A salute to James Hird

Hocking, who was restricted last year because of a shoulder injury which needed surgery at the end of the season, epitomises what is required in intensity, while Brent Stanton epitomises how much Essendon has improved.

Hird praises steely defence

''I like our team defence,'' Hocking said.

''We've worked on it which was one of the coaches' aims, just be a better accountable footy team which means we can compete with the better sides."

Scott Gumbleton celebrates a goal. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

He says his teammates ram home the point at every opportunity.

''Last year there were times when it was not so consistent, but right now it's there, we're red hot. If someone is not manning up, we're tough on them. And it's contagious. If you're mate's doing it, you do it, and it lifts you.''

Brendon Goddard transferred from the one of the most miserly team defences in the history of the game, and when asked last night how big a difference defence makes, he said: ''It's between winning and losing.

''Everyone's talking about our offence, but not giving us enough credit for our defence. Look at the stats. Look at them.''

For the Pies, Steele Sidebottom had 22 disposals at the half and 31 for the game, and stats show he had Dempsey for much of the first quarter, when he racked up 13.

As the game continued, Pendlebury became Collingwood's most threatening player, while Dane Swan had 30 touches.

The next best mid in terms of numbers was Marty Clarke with 21.

Dale Thomas crashes over Courtenay Dempsey. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

No wonder Pendlebury talked about cheats, because the Essendon midfield was able to run rampant several times.

In the first quarter the Pies laid just four tackles. That improved to 15 in the second quarter, 18 in the third and 13 in the final-quarter capitulation.

A critical period of the game was the first 11 minutes of the third quarter. The Bombers had a 7-0 clearance differential and kicked four goals.

The game might've been tighter, perhaps, if the Bombers big men, Tom Bellchambers and Scott Gumbleton, didn't receive free kicks - and goals - for two contentious decisions late in the third quarter.

Watch Nathan Buckley react to Ben Reid's free kick for pushing Essendon's Tom Bellchambers in the third quarter.

As it was, the Bombers had too many winners.

Jason Winderlich kicked three goals and had five score assists and was a menace in the forward line, Alwyn Davey's tackling pressure is first rate, and Bellchambers is far better than anyone ever thought.

On the flip side, Buckley will ask questions about Jordan Russell in defence, and he didn't get enough out of his three smalls, Dwyer, Blair and Elliott, just to name a few.

Picture gallery: All the action and emotion from the MCG

Herald Sun Player of the Year votes
3. David Zaharakis (Ess)
2. Jobe Watson (Ess)
1. Michael Hibberd (Ess)

Best players
Essendon: Zaharakis, Watson, Hibberd, Stanton, Carlisle, Goddard, Winderlich, Baguley, Bellchambers. Collingwood: Pendlebury, Sidebottom, Reid, Shaw, Swan.
 

18.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

Pendles turns torch on "cheating" Pies

Watch Nathan Buckley react to Ben Reid's free kick for pushing Essendon's Tom Bellchambers in the third quarter.

Bombers midfielder David Zaharakis claims the ANZAC Medal.

Scott Pendlebury accused his teammates of not working hard enough in Collingwood's Anzac Day loss to Essendon. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

COLLINGWOOD acting captain Scott Pendlebury last night accused his team of "cheating" at vital stages of yesterday's Anzac Day loss to Essendon, a defeat compounded by the likely season-ending knee injury to defender Alan Toovey.

The Magpies came within 11 points of the Bombers early in the final term, but were no match when it mattered most as Essendon stormed home to win by 46 points before the third highest home-and-away crowd in VFL-AFL history.

Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley also blamed work-rate for the way in which the Bombers were able to overpower his team with six of the last seven goals - mirroring the Magpies' last term collapse to Hawthorn in Round 3.

A frustrated Pendlebury said: "They (Essendon) burnt us pretty badly by playing honest football. We started cheating."

"In the last 15 minutes the forwards and mids ... left our backs with guys everywhere and six guys can't defend nine.

"The alarming thing is how quickly we can get blown out of the water once the game seems to be over."It is not just this year, it was last year in the finals (against) Sydney and Hawthorn."

Mark Robinson: Bombers are here to stay

Buckley agreed with Pendlebury, saying the final-term fadeouts were a "disturbing" trend that would be addressed.

"It looked like work-rate to me," Buckley said.

"If you isolate that last quarter and just looked at the numbers around the contests, at pivotal times when the ball went Essendon's way, we just didn't have enough numbers there.

"We would have had two or three blokes spectating and not working hard enough to get across."

Buckley denied that Collingwood had been too Travis Cloke-centric with their delivery into attack.

But he said the power forward, who kicked 2.3 and had little impact, needed to find a better balance between his best and worst performances.

"I think 'Clokey' spilled probably five or six opportunities that he gobbled up last week," Buckley said.

"You are not going to have career-best games every week, but you have got to find an elevated minimum level."

Travis Cloke misses a shot at goal. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

Buckley lamented the loss of Toovey, who went down after attempting to turn with only five minutes left on the clock.

"Anyway you cut it, he is going to be a loss for us ... the docs are saying it is a likely ACL rupture," he said.

"'Toovs' is a fantastic competitor. Against our values, he would nearly stand No.1 amongst his peers as the guy who is most dependable."

Buckley would not be drawn on two free-kicks to Tom Bellchambers and Scott Gumbleton late in the third term that  resulted in goals to Essendon, quelling some of the Collingwood momentum before three-quarter time.

"They were pretty close one-on-one contests that could have gone either way. We lost them - so be it," he said.

Buckley said he would not make decisions about possible inclusions for Friday night's game against St Kilda until after tonight's VFL game against Bendigo.

The Magpies' VFL side will include the likes of Darren Jolly, Luke Ball (in his comeback game), Andrew Krakouer, Ben Johnson and Alan Didak.

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Gutsy Saints can't buy a win

The AFL video review system is in the spotlight again after a close call in New Zealand

Sydney's Mike Pyke and St. Kilda's Ben McEvoy lock horns. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

ST KILDA made history last night. Unfortunately their season has now been consigned to the same status.

The Saints broke new ground as the first team to host an international premiership match, and they used the occasion to display heart and determination in short supply at times this year.

First they beat the AFL's in-and under specialists at their own game early on, then they kick-started a last term comeback that captivated the crowd of 22,546 Wellington fans.

Yet by the end of a night in which Sydney just did what they do best - stop an opponent in their tracks, surge, and stifle a late charge - the Saints were still 1-4 and out of the finals race.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats and more

This was not quite the game to showcase everything that is glorious about the AFL, with the game at times more rugby than the aerial pinpong non-converts have accused it of resembling.

Still, with Wellington abuzz to the sounds of the AFL for a week and Westpac Stadium two-thirds full last night, it was a mighty promising start.

For the first and last quarters St Kilda showed everything coach Scott Watters had demanded, out Sydney-ing Sydney through the efforts of Nick Riewoldt (27 touches) and Lenny Hayes (eight tackles, 11 clearances).

Sydney's Jarrad McVeigh and St. Kilda's Clinton Jones go in hard. Picture: Hillyard Philip Source: The Daily Telegraph

Then just as Sydney and Anzac Medallist Dan Hannebery seemed certain to lock down the game as they have so often at their SCG fortress, the Saints came alive again.

From 26 points down at the last break, the kids finally began matching the work ethic of the older brigade.

By the time Leigh Montagna's silky goal from deep in the pocket had reduced the margin to ten points, the Westpac Stadium crowd was rocking for the first time.

Shane Mumford's goal in time on iced the contest for Sydney, but given the fleet of kids the Saints carried in their line-up there was no disgrace in the loss.Not only did the Saints fight to the end, they did it with a side including first-gamers Brodie Murdoch and Josh Saunders, as well as Tom Lee (one game), Seb Ross (two) and Nathan Wright (two) all playing last night.

All of them showed glimpses at times, and while Riewoldt (31), Hayes (33) and Montagna (29) clearly the club's best three players, it seems St Kilda supporters are prepared to come along for what could be a rocky ride.

Sydney's Adam Goodes fends off St. Kilda's Nathan Wright. Picture: Hillyard Philip Source: The Daily Telegraph

The good news was those elder statesman led from the front all night, Riewoldt running himself to exhaustion and inspiring fellow veterans in Sam Gilbert into some rousing first-half action.

Sydney just absorbed St Kilda's best blows, then got on with the job of rebounding from that humbling loss to Geelong last week.The old stagers took time to warm to the contest, but soon midfield stars Josh Kennedy, Dan Hannebury and Jarrad McVeigh were dominating the clinches.

Luke Parker belied the slippery conditions to kick two critical goals in a low-scoring match, and Kieren Jack's 13 tackles showcased his rugby childhood.

St Kilda had the first five inside 50s and all the momentum, and could so easily have led by three goals in an inkling.

Yet an interchange infraction to Ahmed Saad gifted Josh Kennedy a long-rang goal and then Jarryn Geary's long bomb seemed to have crossed the goal line before video reviews from a shocking TV angle handed Ted Richards the mark.

Sydney's Mike Pyke crunches Justin Koschitzke after taking strong mark. Picture: Hillyard Philip Source: The Daily Telegraph

Yet with such inexperience in this St Kilda side - and Sydney containing so many flint-hard matchwinners, the Swans inevitably too control.

They would pile on the pressure - and 28 of the next 41 inside 50s - through a combination of brilliance, luck and St Kilda mistakes.

Ben McGlynn was gifted a goal-line goal when Gilbert could not force the ball through, a controversial push-in-the-back call on Tony Armstrong won Kieren Jack another, and the brilliant veteran Jude Bolton capped off another sure-handed display with a third.

From the main break, with St Kilda ten points down and battling, it looked like getting ugly.But St Kilda's rousing finish ensured that even if they remain locked on only win, nearly everyone went home happy last night.

18.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

Teams: No Joe for Anzac Day

Shane Crawford is in Hawaii but he's still thinking about SuperCoach - and Travis Cloke.

A further blow for St Kilda with Stephen Milne set to miss Thursday's Anzac Day match against Sydney in Wellington.

Justin Koschitzke could play his first match for the year. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON has made three changes but resisted the temptation to play Joe Daniher against Collingwood on Anzac Day.

Stewart Crameri, Kyle Hardingham and Travis Colyer have been promoted to the Bombers' line-up.

Michael Hurley is out with an ankle injury suffered against St Kilda last week while defender Tayte Pears and midfielder Jake Melksham were dropped.

Dustin Fletcher has not recovered from a groin injury in time to play.

Daniher, who has been starring at VFL level, did not even make the emergencies.

But his father Anthony is not concerned.

"It's all about the right time and the right environment to bring him in, and everyone is different," he told 3AW.

"I think tomorrow could have been just a bit too early.

See the full team line-ups below and in LiveHQ

"The critical thing is to make sure he's ready to play and Joe has missed a lot of footy over the past few years.

"He's just motoring along really nicely at the moment.

"Theres absolutely no hurry to rush him into that senior team."

Collingwood made just one change, bringing in Tyson Goldsack at the expense of youngster Josh Thomas.

Meanwhile, Justin Koschiztke will resurrect his AFL career in New Zealand tomorrow.

Koschitzke, who has been bumped from the Saints' best side this year, is one of five inclusions for St Kilda's historic clash against Sydney - the first match for premiership points outside Australia.

St Kilda will be boosted by the return of All-Australian defender Sean Dempster, while draftees Brodie Murdoch and Josh Saunders will make their AFL debuts.

The pair were selected with picks 40 and 43 in last year's national draft.

The Swans have lost Lewis Roberts-Thompson to a knee injury and dropped Mitch Morton.

Craig Bird and Andrejs Everitt are their replacements.

Champion Data SuperCoach formguide

ESSENDON v COLLINGWOOD, Thursday 2.40pm at the MCG

ESSENDON

B: M.Hibberd 1, C.Hooker 26, M.Baguley 46
HB: B.Stanton 5, J.Carlisle 22, B.Goddard 9
C: D.Heppell 21, J.Watson 4, C.Dempsey 15
HF: J.Merrett 20, D.Hille 19, S.Gumbleton 3
F: K.Hardingham 34, S.Crameri 12, A.Davey 29
Foll: T.Bellchambers 2, B.Howlett, 40, J.Winderlich 8
I/C: D.Zaharakis 11, D.Myers 23, H.Hocking 39, T.Colyer, 32
Emerg: N.Lovett-Murray 42, J.Melksham 17, T.Pears 16

In: Hardingham, Colyer, Crameri
Out: Hurley (ankle), Pears, Melksham

COLLINGWOOD

B: N.Brown 16, A.Toovey 34, B.Reid 20
HB: M.Clarke 9, H.Shaw 39, H.O'Brien 8
C: S.Sidebottom 22, D.Swan 36, D.Thomas 13
HF: J.Elliott 19, T.Cloke 32, Q.Lynch 21
F: B.Sinclair 28, T.Goldsack 6, S.Dwyer 41
Foll: B.Hudson 25, S.Pendlebury 10, J.Blair 11
I/C: A.Fasolo 1, J.Russell 2, B.Macaffer, 3, P.Seedsman 40
Emerg: J.Witts 15, J.Thomas 24, B.Kennedy 27

In: Goldsack
Out: J.Thomas

ST KILDA v SYDNEY, Thursday 5.50pm in Wellington

ST KILDA
B: N.Wright 34, S.Fisher 25, D.Roberton 17
HB: S.Dempster 24, R.Stanley 28, S.Gilbert 19
C: L.Hayes 7, C.Jones 4, J.Geary 14
HF: D.Armitage 20, N.Riewoldt 12, N.Dal Santo 26
F: A.Saad 21, S.Ross 6, J.Saunders 35
Foll: B.McEvoy 5, J.Steven 3, L.Montagna 11
I/C: T.Dennis-Lane 8, T. Lee 9, J.Koschitzke 23, B.Murdoch 30
Emerg: A.Siposs 2, T.Hickey 1, F.Ray 22

In: Koschitzke, Dempster, Lee, Murdoch, Saunders
Out: Milne (suspension), Maister (hand), Simpkin, Milera, Ray

SYDNEY

B: D.Rampe 43, H.Grundy 39, N.Smith 40
HB: M.Mattner 29, T.Richards 25, N.Malceski 9
C: K.Jack 15, R.O'Keefe 5, L.Jetta 32
HF: J.Bolton 24, S.Reid20, D.Hannebery 4
F: M.Pyke 38, A.Goodes 37, B.McGlynn 21
Foll: S.Mumford 41, J.Kennedy 12, J.McVeigh 3
I/C: T.Armstrong 19, C.Bird 14, A.Everitt 13, L Parker 26
Emerg: J.White 18, T.Walsh 17, M.Morton 10

In:Bird, Everitt
Out: L. Roberts-Thomson (knee), Morton.
 

18.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

Crouch down in Crow blow

Shane Crawford is in Hawaii but he's still thinking about SuperCoach - and Travis Cloke.

Brad Crouch celebrates a goal with Taylor Walker. Picture: Simon Cross Source: The Advertiser

ADELAIDE has been dealt a stinging blow with promising midfielder Brad Crouch expected to miss at least two weeks after suffering a hamstring injury at training today.

Crouch, who debuted this season after spending a year as an ineligible 17-year-old player on the Crows list, had impressed coach Brenton Sanderson in his few senior games but the injury is expected to be at the lower end.

Crouch warmed up with teammates before hurting his leg during today's closed session. He will be sent for scans to determine the damage.

"It's a bit of a setback for us,'' Sanderson said.

"I've really liked how he's been playing; he's been great for a first-year player."

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SuperCoach unique pick stars and flops

Sanderson was this afternoon heading for a match committee meeting, and one of the first names that would be brought up to replace Crouch was Bernie Vince.

Vince was dropped to Woodville-West Torrens in the SANFL last weekend and responded with a dominant contribution.

"I did like how Bernie went back,'' Sanderson said. "He went back and dominated that game in the SANFL and he's too good to play in the SANFL, you know.

"So we'll look for opportunities to get those guys back where we can.''

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Carlisle commits to Bombers

James Hird says he's wary of Dane Swan's form against Essendon.

Fired-up Essendon defender Jake Carlisle shouts at an opponent. Source: Getty Images

JAKE Carlisle has re-signed with Essendon.

The key defender has penned a new two-year deal that ties him to the club until the end of the 2015 season.

The 21-year-old has been immense in the Bombers backline so far this season and news that he has re-committed himself to the club comes as a massive boost ahead of the Anzac Day showdown with Collingwood tomorrow.

"I couldn't be happier, it's a privilege to play for a club with such a rich and proud history, and it means a lot to recommit to the club that gave me the opportunity and drafted me,'' Carlisle said.

"I'm glad I could get my contract signed so early in the season so I can just focus purely on my football and keep developing my game.''

The Calder Cannons product has played 32 games since being selected by the Bombers with pick No.24 in the 2009 national draft.

To see an extended interview with Carlisle tune in to The Hangar on Fox Footy at 9pm tonight.
 

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Tigers lose Conca for a month

Damien Hardwick compares Tigers training to sleeping with his wife.

Reece Conca gets a handball away. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

EMERGING Richmond midfielder Reece Conca will miss at least four weeks after being diagnosed with a stress reaction in his foot.

Conca will wear a moonboot for 5-10 days after scans this week detected the injury in his right foot.

The No.6 pick in the 2010 draft has averaged 20 disposals and four tackles a game this season.

"The good thing is we picked it up this early. It didn't develop into a crack or stress fracture," Richmond's elite performance manager Peter Burge told the club website.

"If there's a positive, it's that it is a little bit shorter-term than a stress fracture."

After a trouble-free start to the season, the Tigers will be forced to make at least three changes at the selection table tomorrow.

Steven Morris will miss Friday night's clash against Fremantle through suspension while defender Troy Chaplin has not recovered from concussion.

Their absence is likely to open the door for Nick Vlastuin, Richmond's top pick at last year's draft, to make his AFL debut.

Robin Nahas and former Kangaroo Aaron Edwards are also chances to play the Dockers.
 

18.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

Coach slams 'stupid' Milne

Stephen Milne looks set to miss St Kilda's historic Anzac Day clash against Sydney after being charged for misconduct by the AFL match review panel

Stephen Milne (right) gets involved in a stoush between Bomber Courtenay Dempsey and Ahmed Saad. Source: Getty Images

STEPHEN Milne reads the play better than almost any small forward in history: he gets in dangerous positions, yet sidesteps trouble when the big boys arrive.

For one of the few times in his polarising-yet-decorated career, Milne has ignored that message, and it could cost him a graceful exit from the game.

Milne's "facial" on Essendon's Courtenay Dempsey has cost him a one-week suspension, the respect of his coach, and - potentially - any chance of playing for St Kilda again.

VIDEO: See Milne's sin in the video player above

That might be a big call, but coach Scott Watters was so livid yesterday he declared an impromptu press conference at Melbourne airport to label Milne's actions "stupid", and warn him his spot was in jeopardy.

At so many other times, Milne might have been able to thumb his nose at the critics and point to a record of 262 games, and 552 goals - elite by any standard.

Yet apart from three goals against Greater Western Sydney, Milne has been badly out of form, shocking timing at a club desperately trying to transition its list.

He will likely lose his spot to young ex-WAFL forward Tom Lee and, with Ahmed Saad, Terry Milera, Trent Dennis-Lane and Adam Schneider all in the mix, he might never get it back.

St Kilda was to spread the gospel yesterday through senior player Leigh Montagna, but Watters stepped in as well to vent his frustration.

If you don't mind, umpire: The biggest umpiring eyebrow-raisers of Round 4

"Milney will accept a one-match penalty but it's disappointing. We need our leaders out there. It's not the sort of act I expect from our leaders," he said in a spray that was entirely justified.

Then came Watters' own round-house to Milne: "If you want my blunt assessment, it was just stupid. He will train and prepare himself to be up for selection the following week and there are no guarantees once you come out of the side.

"Then you have to fight your way back in. So he's no different."

In all likelihood, Milne will get his chance again at some stage but, given he is 33 and on a one-year deal, he needs to be playing clearly better than the next 22-year-old to get a game.

He will at least be comforted by the growing likelihood fellow veteran Justin Koschitzke could play tomorrow, after at some stages in the off-season looking like the highest-priced VFL player in history.

Like Milne, he is a victim of the club's aggressive rebuilding strategy and has been behind fellow talls Nick Riewoldt, Beau Maister, Tom Hickey and Rhys Stanley.

But with Stanley playing back and Maister out injured, he could join old mate Riewoldt against Sydney after St Kilda went in too short against Essendon last Saturday night.

Defender Sean Dempster is also a chance to make a quick return from wrist surgery, with Watters flagging a possible debut for Brodie Murdoch or Josh Saunders.

Montagna, drafted a year after Koschitzke, said the ruck/forward had decided not to moan about his position in the VFL.

"He is pretty keen to get amongst it. If he plays, I am sure he will put his best foot forward," Montagna said.

"He was a bit frustrated early in the season when he missed out, but then he thought, 'I am going to take it on the chin'.

"He has done well with the young boys. They have said he has been terrific, and he has really made an effort to enjoy his football."

Koschitzke will be desperate for that final chance to prove himself but, for Milne, he can only watch on hoping the likes of Lee and Saad do not slam the door on his 13-year career.

18.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

Teams: Kosi, Dempster bolster Saints

A further blow for St Kilda with Stephen Milne set to miss Thursday's Anzac Day match against Sydney in Wellington.

Justin Koschitzke could play his first match for the year. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

JUSTIN Koschitzke is a chance to return from the football wilderness in Thursday's historic Anzac Day match against Sydney in New Zealand.

Koschitzke, who has been bumped from the Saints' best side this year, was named on an extended interchange bench and was rested from Sunday's VFL match to remain fresh for the trip across the Tasman.

The 30-year-old is stranded on 195 games but a strong chance to remain in the final side when it is trimmed to 22 tomorrow with forwards Beau Maister (hand) and Stephen Milne (suspension) ruled out.

The Saints have also dropped goalsneak Terry Milera and Tom Simpkin ahead of the maiden match played for premiership points off Australian shores.

St Kilda will be boosted by the return of All-Australian defender Sean Dempster, while Geelong Falcons hardnut Josh Saunders is certain to make his AFL debut.

Saunders, who was plucked at pick No. 43 in last year's draft, was named in a forward pocket.

The Swans have lost Lewis Roberts-Thompson to a knee injury, with Jesse White, Andrejs Everitt and former Saint Tommy Walsh in the mix to replace the swingman.

Essendon and Collingwood will announce their Anzac Day sides tomorrow.

ST KILDA v SYDNEY, Thursday 5.50pm in Wellington

ST KILDA
B: N.Wright 34, S.Fisher 25, D.Roberton 17
HB: S.Dempster 24, R.Stanley 28, S.Gilbert 19
C: L.Hayes 7, C.Jones 4, J.Geary 14
HF: D.Armitage 20, N.Riewoldt 12, N.Dal Santo 26
F: A.Saad 21, S.Ross 6, J.Saunders 35
Foll: B.McEvoy 5, J.Steven 3, L.Montagna 11
I/C from: T.Dennis-Lane 8, A.Siposs 2, T.Hickey 1, T.Lee 9, J. Koschitzke 23, F.Ray 22, B.Murdoch 30

In: J.Koschitzke, S.Dempster, T.Lee, A.Siposs, T.Hickey, B.Murdoch, J.Saunders
Out: S.Milne (suspended) B.Maister (hand), T.Milera (omitted), T.Simpkin (omitted)

SYDNEY

B: D.Rampe 43, H.Grundy 39, N.Smith 40
HB: M.Mattner 29, T.Richards 25, N.Malceski 9
C: K.Jack 15, R.O'Keefe 5, L.Jetta 32
HF: J.Bolton 24, S.Reid20, D.Hannebery 4
F: M.Pyke 38, A.Goodes 37, B.McGlynn 21
Foll: S.Mumford 41, J.Kennedy 12, J.McVeigh 3
I/C from: T.Armstrong 19, M.Morton 10, L.Parker 26, C.Bird 14, A.Everitt 13, J.White 18, T.Walsh 17

In: J.White, A.Everitt, T.Walsh
Out: L. Roberts-Thomson (knee).
 

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Thompson out of Brownlow running

Onballer Scott Thompson can no longer win the Brownlow this year, but is still free to face the Blues. Picture: Simon Cross. Source: The Advertiser

ADELAIDE midfielder Scott Thompson can't win the 2013 Brownlow Medal after a failed AFL Tribunal challenge.

While Thompson is ineligible for the game's highest individual award, he will still play against Carlton at the MCG on Saturday.

The gun Crows onballer can escape with a reprimand and 93.75 demerit points for rough conduct against Bulldog Brett Goodes last weekend.

Tied fourth in last year's Brownlow, five votes behind winner Jobe Watson, he's ruled out of this year's medal after the match review panel assessed his offence as worthy of 125 demerit points, above the dreaded 100 tally.

The decorated Thompson, who has won the Crows' past two best and fairest awards, avoided suspension with the 25 percent discount for a six-years good record.

Despite being able to accept a reprimand, Thompson fought the charge by video-link from Adelaide on the basis that he didn't strike Goodes to the head in his attempt to smother the ball in the third quarter.

"I believe I hit him on the left upper shoulder and chest and made no contact to the face,'' he said.

"I know I have a duty of care not to make any contact to the head. I believe I'm a clean, ball player.''

But the tribunal jury, Wayne Henwood, Richard Loveridge and Wayne Schimmelbusch, upheld the MRP's finding that Thompson was guilty of rough conduct.

Melbourne midfielder Neville Jetta will miss games against Brisbane and Carlton after accepting his rough conduct suspension, while St Kilda's Stephen Milne, Richmond's Steven Morris and Lion Pearce Hanley must sit out this round.

And the five St Kilda and three Essendon players accepted fines totally $14,100 for their half-time melee.
 

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Kelly in for the Cats

Geelong midfielder James Kelly will line up against the Dogs. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG is set to welcome back midfielder James Kelly for Saturday night's clash with the Western Bulldogs, but he won't be the only comeback this weekend.

Athletic tall Nathan Vardy will play his first game of the year after overcoming a groin injury that has hampered him since before the start of the NAB Cup.

Kelly has missed the past two games with an achilles injury, but is set to return against the Dogs at Etihad Stadium.

"He should be right. It was quite an innocuous issue with his ankle, achilles area," Geelong coach Chris Scott said yesterday. "We didn't think he'd miss at all, and now he's missed two. That's more a reflection of our conservatism than the seriousness of that injury.

A shoulder injury in the VFL halts Geelong young gun Nathan Vardy's return to senior ranks. Picture: Leanne Churchill Source: Herald Sun

 

"We'd be staggered if he didn't play this week."

Vardy, who played two games late last year after returning from serious hip surgery, will play in the VFL on Sunday.

"It's really exciting to get Vards back. He needs to get some football under his belt. We're not going to rush him back at all," Scott said.

"In fact, he could have played the last couple of weeks, but we decided to be ultra-conservative with him and we'll continue that through the next few weeks with his VFL program.

"I expect it's going to be difficult because he'll play well at VFL level, but we will resist the temptation to get him back into the AFL system because we'd rather be safe than sorry.

"Some of the feedback we're getting is that it's just too conservative, but if that's a mistake we make then I can live with that."

Josh Walker will return after injuring his shoulder in the first VFL game of the season four weeks ago, while Josh Hunt, who has battled back from glandular fever and a shoulder issue, will spend more time in the VFL.

"(Hunt) has got some more footy at VFL level. He played very well on the weekend, he was clearly one of the best players on the ground, but he's coming off a very limited preparation," Scott said.

"Josh is going to be important for us, certainly in the last half of the season. Similarly to our younger players, we've got to make sure he's well and truly ready to play his best before he steps up to AFL level."

Ruckman Hamish McIntosh, who is battling an achilles injury after having pre-season knee surgery, is still at least a couple of weeks away from a return.

"Dawson Simpson's the other one who's not too far away. We'd love to have Simpson, Vardy, McIntosh available, Walker will play this week as well, so we're slowly getting those (tall) guys back into the system," Scott said.

"We very much see those guys as a unit that works together. We certainly won't be deciding on our best two and sticking with them every single week.

"It's healthy for our group that we're starting to get some of those guys backs into our system."

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Hurley ruled out of Anzac Day

Essendon remain undefeated after beating St Kilda but lose key forward Michael Hurley to an ankle injury.

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

ESSENDON captain Jobe Watson says while bookends Michael Hurley and Dustin Fletcher are set to miss Thursday's Anzac Day showdown, forward Stewart Crameri is a chance to return to face Collingwood.

Crameri, who was a late withdrawal with a knee injury from the Bombers team that defeated St Kilda on Saturday, did handball drills away from the main group at the Bombers light recovery session today.

Hurley was subbed out at the weekend with an ankle injury while Fletcher missed the match with a groin problem.

Watson also said prized father-son recruit Joe Daniher was " in the mix".

"Just with the short turn around being an ankle injury, there's no structural damage but five days, very difficult to get up," Watson said of Hurley.

He expected both Hurley and Fletcher to be fit to face GWS in Round 6.

Watson said the Bombers had great depth.

"I think what it is is it's creating a lot of hunger amongst the VFL guys," Watson said.

The Tackle: Robbo's take on Goddard's tears

" Pearsy' (Tayte Pears) has played for six weeks in the VFL and Gumby's (Scott Gumbleton) been the same, Hilley's been the same.

"(Nathan) Lovett-Murray hasn't been able to get an opportunity yet, Leroy Jetta hasn't got an opportunity ... When you get that competitive type of hunger out of a VFL side it means that guys not only are they in a good mindset to play when they get their opportunity but they've got to good fitness as well. At the moment it's holding us in good stead."

He expected the Anzac Day clash to be a "scrap".
 

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Milne banned and fined

Stephen Milne looks set to miss St Kilda's historic Anzac Day clash against Sydney after being charged for misconduct by the AFL match review panel

Stephen Milne (right) gets involved in a stoush between Bomber Courtenay Dempsey and Ahmed Saad. Source: Getty Images

ST KILDA forward Stephen Milne's stuttering start to the season has stalled after he was forced to miss this week's historic trip to New Zealand.

A one-game suspension for face gouging meant Milne could not be considered for the Anzac Day game against Sydney in Wellington.

St Kilda's forward set-up was already disrupted with tall target Beau Maister out with a fractured right wrist.
Milne also copped a $3000 fine for his involvement in the skirmish after the halftime siren that cost four teammates and three Essendon players a total of $14,100.

The AFL match review panel cited the veteran goalsneak for making unnecessary contact to Courtenay Dempsey's face in the last quarter at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night.

VIDEO: See Milne's sin in the video player above

It was a costly aftermath to another substandard display by the veteran - Milne managed one goal from 10 possessions in the 37-point loss to Essendon.

The 33-year-old, who earned AFL life membership this week for 300 career games, has six goals from four games this year after leading the Saints goalkicking with 56 majors last season.

Strugglers Melbourne and Brisbane have each lost players to suspension before their clash at the Gabba on Sunday.

If you don't mind, umpire: The biggest umpiring eyebrow-raisers of Round 4

Demon midfielder Neville Jetta can accept a two-match penalty for rough conduct against Giant Lachie Whitfield and Hanley was outed for one game for striking North Melbourne's Lindsay Thomas.

Jetta had 87.50 demerit points carried over for a one-match ban for a front-on bump to Thomas in Round 18 last season and Hanley had 93.75 added for escaping with a reprimand from a rough conduct charge in the opening round this season.

Richmond defender Steven Morris can accept one game or risk two by challenging a charge of rough conduct against Collingwood's Jamie Elliott in the second quarter at the MCG on Saturday.

A six-year good record helped North Melbourne full-back Scott Thompson to avoid suspension for rough conduct against Bulldog Brett Goodes and North Melbourne forward Drew Petrie was cleared after a report for charging Brisbane's Rohan Bewick was thrown out.

St Kilda's Nathan Wright, Tom Simpkin, Ahmed Saad and Jarryn Geary were each fined $1200 for the melee and Bombers Tom Bellchambers, Michael Hibberd and Jake Carlisle were hit with $2100 sanctions as second offenders.

Neville Jetta faces nervous wait for ruling on bump on Lachie Whitfield.

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Griffen ruled out of Cats clash

Ryan Griffen has been ruled out with a shoulder injury. Picture: Simon Cross

WESTERN Bulldogs star Ryan Griffen has escaped serious injury but will still miss Saturday night's clash with Geelong.

It was feared Griffen may have fractured his AC joint after falling awkwardly in the final term of yesterday's loss to Adelaide.

But scans on his left shoulder cleared him of major damage although bruising around the area will see him sidelined for up to two weeks.

The loss of Griffen continues a horror injury run for the Dogs who last week lost Shaun Higgins (foot) for the season plus Robert Murphy (calf), Easton Wood (hamstring) and Tory Dickson (ankle).
 

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The Barometer: Round 5

North Melbourne say Majak Daw should be right to play next week after suffering a head knock in the Kangaroos' game with Brisbane Lions.

Will Brian Lake come in for the Hawks? Source: Herald Sun

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

ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Brodie Smith (collarbone) 3-4 weeks
Ian Callinan (knee) available
Nathan van Berlo (knee) test

ON THE BLOCK: Hard to read too much into yesterday's whitewash over the Western Bulldogs. Rookie Ricky Laird tried hard but his efficiency (50 per cent) let him down. Jared Petrenko is no certainty to keep his spot with a couple of experienced heads on the outer.

ON THE CUSP: Skipper Nathan van Berlo must prove his fitness on the track after missing last week with a knee injury. Bernie Vince made the most of his SANFL hitout, amassing 27 disposals including seven clearances. Defenders Luke Thompson (21 possessions, six rebound 50s) and Brodie Martin (27 touches, 10 marks and two goals) put their hands up for selection. Jarryd Lyons is also in the mix.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Not sold on the 2-2 Crows just yet. The Bulldogs were no match yesterday, while beating Brisbane in Round 2 is nothing to crow about either. Patrick Dangerfield exploded in the first half against the Dogs after mixing his form during the first month of footy. Rory Sloane was the eye-catcher finishing with 29 disposals including eight clearances. We'll know more about this lot on Saturday afternoon when they come up against Carlton, fresh off its big win in the west.

Simon Black and Brent Staker playing in Lions reserves v Broadbeach in NEAFL Picture: Searle Jonathon Source: Herald Sun

BRISBANE

INJURIES
Claye Beams (knee) season
Jared Polec (ankle) TBA
Brent Staker (knee) 1-2 weeks
Jesse O'Brien (adductor) 3-4 weeks
Matt McGuire (ankle) 1-2 weeks
Ash McGrath (leg) TBA

ON THE BLOCK: Ash McGrath could miss after coming off with a leg injury early in the loss to North Melbourne. Pearce Hanley is another out after copping a one-match ban from the match review panel. Stefan Martin has struggled and could easily be given the flick as Michael Voss looks to make a statement at selection. Substitute Marco Paparone (three goals) did more than enough on debut to warrant a second run. Josh Green was hit and miss with four clangers.

ON THE CUSP: Could Simon Black sneak back into the team? The Lions superstar emerged unscathed from his first game in eight months, picking up 26 disposals in the NEAFL. Vossy could do worse than start his great mate as the substitute for Sunday's match against Melbourne. Brent Staker also played at NEAFL level and got through the game OK. Fringe Lions James Polkinghorne, Todd Banfield and Patrick Karnezis were all named in the best, while Aaron Cornelius booted six goals. If only the enigmatic forward could repeat the dose in the senior team on a regular basis.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: The Lions should be too good on their home deck for Melbourne. But they're far from certainties. The forward line is a mess, cap gun at best with marking targets Stef Martin and Jonathan Brown under the weather. Looking for Rich, Zorko and Rockliff to step up and impact the scoreboard this week. Karnezis could also be a bolter for selection in a forward role.

SuperCoach studs and duds

CARLTON

INJURIES
Eddie Betts (jaw) test
Marcus Davies (ankle) TBA
Matthew Kreuzer (thumb) 6 weeks
Andrew McInnes (knee) 6-8 weeks
Jarrad Waite (calf) 1-2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Substitute Aaron Joseph could come under fire with the Blues set to make at least one change if Eddie Betts returns. Simon White is another who just hasn't been able to put it together after a solid pre-season. Sam Rowe butchered the ball (36 per cent) but is offering a marking target.

ON THE CUSP: Betts will be itching to get a run after missing a couple of games with a broken jaw. David Ellard was best afield for the Northern Blues, booting four goals against Coburg. Levi Casboult slotted three goals and could come into calculations. Nick Duigan, Tom Bell and Jeremy Laidler remain in the wings.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Huge opportunity for Mick Malthouse to get his season back on track against an Adelaide side struggling with consistency. Malthouse would be rapt with his backline after it restricted Eagles powerhouses Josh Kennedy and Jack Darling last week. But new challenges await in Taylor Walker and the Crows' throng of goalkicking midfielders.

COLLINGWOOD

INJURIES
Nathan Brown (adductor) TBC
Luke Ball (knee) VFL return
Tyson Goldsack (unspecified) TBC
Ben Johnson (calf) available
Darren Jolly (ribs) Test
Clinton Young (hamstring) 1-2 weeks
Dayne Beams (quad) 1-2 weeks
Brodie Grundy (back) 3-5 weeks
Lachlan Keefe (knee) 4-5 weeks
Michael Hartley (shoulder) 4 weeks
Nick Maxwell (wrist) 4-5 weeks
Tim Broomhead (glandular fever) 7 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Key defender Nathan Brown has an adductor injury and appears unlikely to face the Bombers on Anzac Day. It is a blow for the Magpies, but slightly tempered by the news Essendon will be without spearhead Michael Hurley. It is a quick turnaround and the Pies will need some fresh legs. The likes of Brent Macaffer, Paul Seedsman and Ben Sinclair  might be the unlucky ones if Nathan Buckley decides to change it up.

ON THE CUSP: Andrew Krakouer is knocking on the door. He had 36 disposals in the twos at the weekend and looks good. Does Bucks bring him in on the big stage? It would be tempting to unleash the Krak. Assistant coach Robert Harvey said on radio today the club expects Ben Johnson, Tyson Goldsack, Alan Didak and Brown to be available for selection. But he also noted the good form shown against Richmond will make it difficult to make too many changes. Luke Ball is set to return through the VFL this week, meaning an AFL comeback shouldn't be too far away.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: Collingwood's depth has been impressive. They are missing key cogs of their side, but are still getting the job done. Others such as West Coast should take notice. There's still no Luke Ball, Dayne Beams, Clinton Young or Nick Maxwell. And ruckman Darren Jolly is likely to miss again. But they are being covered by the kids, who are all playing a role. If they produce the same intensity as shown against Richmond, it will be another Anzac Day win for the Pies.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: Travis Cloke, take a bow. His career-high seven goals meant he scored 195 SuperCoach points, which boosted his average to 124 and price to $515,900. Dane Swan, in his 200th game, helped himself to 168 points.

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

ESSENDON

INJURIES
Michael Hurley (ankle) Won't play
Dustin Fletcher (groin) Won't play
Stuart Crameri (knee) Test

ON THE BLOCK: Essendon has lost its bookends for Anzac Day with Michael Hurley and Dustin Fletcher both ruled out. It hurts the Dons' spine against the in-form Magpies, who blitzed Richmond at the MCG on Saturday. It is unlikely the undefeated Bombers will flirt with form and make too many unforced changes.

ON THE CUSP: They lose Hurley, but might get back Stuart Crameri - who was a late withdrawal against St Kilda with a knee injury. And this will really excite Bomber fans - Joe Daniher is "in the mix" - according to skipper Jobe Watson. The much hyped Daniher has to be a chance to come in against the Maggies. And what a time to do it - in front of 90,000 at the MCG on Anzac Day. Come on, Hirdy.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: The injuries have come at Bomberland after an unblemished start to the season. Unfortunately, it has hit their bookends. But they will still head into Anzac Day with the confidence they can knock off Collingwood. They are unbeaten and playing good football. Have lost their past seven games against the Pies, but have the game style to trouble them.

SUPERCOACH WATCH: Skipper Jobe Watson scored above 120 for the third time this season but amazingly dipped in price, if only by $2,800. He might be a bit more affordable after this week with a break-even of 149.

Joe Daniher in action. Source: Herald Sun

FREMANTLE

INJURIES
Anthony Morabito (knee) season
Aaron Sandiland (foot) 6 weeks
Matthew Pavlich (Achilles) 6 weeks
Luke McPharlin (concussion) test

ON THE BLOCK: Poor Nick Suban. Had a dog of day and copped a spray from his coach on live television at halftime for his troubles. Two disposals and 50 per cent efficiency should just about ensure the defender spends the weekend in the WAFL. Cameron Sutcliffe butchered the ball while debutant and late inclusion Tanner Smith did just enough in his baptism of fire.

ON THE CUSP: Luke McPharlin you'd think is a certainty to line up against Richmond. Hayden Crozier was rock solid in the WAFL with 17 disposals and two goals.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Important for the Dockers to bounce back after their ill-fated trip south. Ross Lyon's "anyone, any time, anywhere" mantra was put to bed by quarter-time with the Hawks piling on five unanswered goals. Matt de Boer has room for improvement after mixing his form in recent weeks, while marking targets Chris Mayne and Kepler Bradley need help inside the arc.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 21: Majak Daw of the Kangaroos gets carried off the ground after a heavy knock during the round four AFL match between the North Melbourne Kangaroos and the Brisbane Lions at Etihad Stadium on April 21, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

GEELONG

INJURIES

Daniel Menzel (knee) TBC
James Kelly (calf) available
Travis Varcoe (shoulder) 11-12 weeks
Josh Cowan (Achilles) indefinite
Hamish McIntosh (knee) indefinite
George Burbury (foot) indefinite
Jed Bews (foot) indefinite
Dawson Simpson (back) Indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Not too many. Coach Chris Scott will not want to tinker too much with the side that defeated Sydney at the SCG. If he felt picky, the likes of forward Billy Smedts and Josh Caddy might be feeling a tad nervous. Luckless Daniel Menzel is also set for another knee reconstruction after hurting himself in the twos at the weekend. Horrible luck.

ON THE CUSP: There are a few knocking on the door. Josh Hunt and Cameron Guthrie are both playing well in the twos and continue to push for a return, although the side is looking quite settled at the second.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: What a win that was in Sydney. The Cats are flying and you can all but pencil in another win this weekend against the hapless Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium. Make no mistake of  it, the Cats are not going anywhere. Premiership contenders again with a capital P.

SUPERCOACH WATCH- Joel Selwood - what a superstar. The inspirational Geelong skipper collected 163 points against the Swans. Defender Harry Taylor (125) also impressed greatly.

GOLD COAST

INJURIES
Matthew Warnock (arm) 8 weeks
Joel Wilkinson (ankle) TBC
Harley Bennell (hamstring) 1 weel
Liam Patrick (hamstring) 1-2 weeks
Seb Tape (knee) 1-2 weejs
Jesse Lonergan (wrist) 1 week
Campbell Brown (suspension) 2 weeks
Maverick Weller (shoulder) 1 week
Nathan Bock (leg) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Massive blow for the Suns with scans confirming key defender Matthew Warnock will miss eight weeks with a fractured arm. Defender Joel Wilkinson will come out with an ankle injury and Harley Bennell will also miss again with a hamstring strain. There will also be some unforced changes too. Angry coach Guy McKenna said he was "sharpening the axe" after the disappointing loss to Port Adelaide at Metricon Stadium on Saturday night. A few of their big men would be nervous this week.

ON THE CUSP: The "Bull" Danny Stanley should come in for his first game of the year after overcoming groin and back complaints. He has spent a few weeks in the twos and is ready to go. Expect to see forward Tom Lynch back in the side after kicking six goals in the twos at the weekend. "The Cannon" Trent McKenzie also has to be close.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: GWS Giants in Canberra this week. Massive game for the Suns. They were humbled by the Giants in Canberra a year ago, and it should serve as a reminder not to underestimate their fellow expansion club this time. On that day, the Giants cracked in hard while the Suns just didn't feel like doing the work. They cannot let it happen again. They have their injuries, but so do the Giants. A must-win.

SUPERCOACH WATCH- IF you took big man Charlie Dixon at the start of the season, you would be smiling. Another big showing on the weekend with 103 points. His price is up almost $62,000 since Round 1.

Matthew Warnock will miss eight weeks. Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

GWS

INJURIES
Taylor Adams (hip) TBC
Matthew Buntine (lung) 2 weeks
Dom Tyson (knee) 4 weeks
Chad Cornes (shoulder) Indefinite
Dean Brogan (suspended) 2 weeks
Jon Patton (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: Tim Mohr is out of form and likely to find himself out of the side against the Suns. No.1 draft pick Lachie Whitfield hurt his shoulder against the Demons, but should be right this weekend.

ON THE CUSP: Expect to see former Blue Bret Thornton come in for the Giants. The big man booted eight golas in the twos at the weekend and is primed for an AFL return. The Suns have lost key defender Matthew Warnock and the Giants will want to exploit them here. Could be a bolter for the Giants.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: They were terrific for three quarters against Melbourne before badly falling away in the final term, conceding 12 goals. Have to pick themselves back up quickly as this is a winnable game for them. Got the better of the Suns this time last year in Canberra and will be confident they can do it again here.

HAWTHORN

INJURIES
Ryan Schoenmakers (knee) season
Brad Sewell (hamstring) test
Derek Wanganeen (hamstring) test
Xavier Ellis (calf) 1 weeks
Brendan Whitecross (knee) 5 weeks
Matthew Suckling (knee) indefinite
Alex Woodward (knee) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Terrible news with defender Ryan Schoenmakers to miss the rest of the season with a knee injury. He requires a reconstruction and it is a big blow for Hawthorn's defensive structure. Shane Savage is also likely to find himself on the block this week.

ON THE CUSP: Brian Lake, finally. The ex-defender is set to come in against the Roos. And he may be joined by midfielder Brad Sewell, he looks to have overcome a hamstring injury. Brett Guerra is also in their calculations.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: They are playing good football and should be too strong for the Kangaroos. But they will really miss Schoenmakers, who has been a very important key defender for them. Their back six has taken some well documented hits, going back to the end of last season. Will it finally begin to take its toll?

SUPERCOACH WATCH- Shaun Burgoyne (153) and Grant Birchall (152) did the damage on the weekend. Massive scores by both.

Ryan Schoenmakers requires a knee reconstruction. Source: The Mercury

MELBOURNE

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

ON THE BLOCK: Neville Jetta will miss two weeks for his high bump on Lachie Whitfield against the Giants. Jack Viney may be due for a breather after being subbed off yesterday with just five disposals.

ON THE CUSP: With Jetta out, expect to see Jordie McKenzie come in. Daniel Nicholson is also close to a recall.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: Hip, hip, hooray! Finally a win at the embattled Demons - and didn't they need it. They produced 12 final-quarter goals against the Giants. The big question whether they can build on that as they prepare to face Brisbane at the Gabba on Sunday. The Lions are battling, but they would still need to produce something special up north. In three weeks they play Gold Coast so the win-loss ledger could look a whole lot healthier if the Dees find their mojo.

SUPERCOACH WATCH- Ex-Cat Shannon Byrnes boosted his price by $36,800 with his 128 points at the weekend.

Neville Jetta faces nervous wait for ruling on bump on Lachie Whitfield.

NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Majak Daw (concussion) test
Robbie Tarrant (leg test

ON THE BLOCK: Time is running out for Lachie Hansen. The at-times maligned 2006 No.3 pick struggled (seven disposals, three clangers) against the Lions while all around him ran riot. Majak Daw did enough in his exhilarating 18 minutes on the ground to suggest he'll play (if fit) on Sunday. Sam Wright and Liam Anthony could be at risk with a number of Kangaroos performing well at VFL level.

ON THE CUSP: Robbie Tarrant plays if fit after breaking down at training last week. Ben Jacobs had the ball on a string for North Ballarat, collecting 41 disposals including 13 clearances. Developing forward Aaron Black booted five goals in the same game while Will Sierakowski was OK for Werribee.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Coach Brad Scott says the Kangaroos learn more from their losses than they do wins. Wind back the clock nine months and one loss, one man stands out. Lance Franklin. Thirteeeeeeeeen! Scott Thompson and Nathan Grima were towelled up that Saturday afternoon as the Hawks piled on 27 goals for a 115-point bloodbath in Launceston. Retribution on Sunday? For North's sake, let's hope so. As far as positives go, the Kangaroos' 1-3 record is better than it suggests with narrow losses to top-four aspirants Collingwood and Geelong before being outclassed by Sydney.

PORT ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Brett Ebert (adductor) 3 weeks
Paul Stewart (knee) test

ON THE BLOCK: Hard to knock a winning team. Good to see Robbie Gray emerge unscathed in his comeback from a knee reconstruction last year. Jake Neade has hit the rookie wall, refer Melbourne young gun Jack Viney, and could be in need of  a break after a solid month of footy.

ON THE CUSP: Paul Stewart will come into consideration if fit while Cameron Hitchcock enjoyed a solid SANFL hitout with 18 disposals, seven inside-50s and two goals. Utility Andrew Moore was also handy picking up 15 possessions including five clearances and a goal. He also laid six tackles.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Port is faced with yet another test when it hosts West Coast on Saturday night. The 4-0 Power look to have a more settled midfield than the Eagles, but could struggle in the ruck, with Dean Cox way too classy for both Matthew Lobbe and Brent Renouf. Can The Hoff's run continue? Bearded flyer Justin Westhoff  (three goals) could easily have kicked five against the Suns, while Jay Schulz is as dangerous as ever from anywhere inside 55m.

Round 4: AFL Top 40 Gallery

RICHMOND

INJURIES
Sam Lonergan (hamstring) test
Jake King (leg) TBA
Troy Chaplin (concussion) test

ON THE BLOCK: After a settled opening to the season, the Tigers' match committee might have some work to do. Jake King looked very sore when he hobbled off with a leg injury on Saturday while defender Steve Morris is set to sit out a week after being charged by the match review panel. Shane Tuck was subbed off and has had a slow start to the year, while Luke McGuane had no impact and Ricky Petterd might be nervous after a couple of costly fumbles.

ON THE CUSP: Brad Helbig continuing his strong run of form with 27 disposals for Coburg and Aaron Edwards kicked seven goals. Interestingly, Nick Vlastuin was rested for the first quarter and Robbie Nahas for the whole first half – both performed well after taking the field – indicating the coaches might have had Friday's trip to Perth to play Fremantle in mind. The best news from the game was the successful return of Nathan Foley, who picked up 18 disposals in a half playing his first match since snapping his Achilles tendon in the middle of last year. After the game Foley said he pulled up well but would need a few more runs in the twos before a senior call-up.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: This shapes as a very big week for the Tigers, who need to bounce back from a disappointing showing on the big stage. Richmond couldn't find a way through Collingwood's intense full-ground pressure and it won't get any easier against the Dockers. The Tigers' record in Perth isn't good – three wins from their last 16 visits, in fact. Ryan Crowley has gone to Brett Deledio in recent meetings.

ST KILDA

INJURIES
Beau Maister (wrist) 4-6 weeks
Sean Dempster (hand) 1-2 weeks
James Gwilt (knee) 1-2 weeks
Jackson Ferguson (knee) 1-2 weeks
Adam Schneider (hamstring) 2-3 weeks
Jack Newnes (fractured jaw) 1 week
Daniel Markworth (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: Scans today revealed Maister has a fractured wrist and will be out of action for at least a month. Nathan Wright couldn't back up his impressive debut, picking up just three kicks against the Bombers while Tom Simpkin struggled against Essendon's tall forwards. Terry Milera was subbed off with eight touches (50 per cent efficiency) and no goals but might keep his spot if Stephen Milne accepts his one-match suspension.

ON THE CUSP: Justin Koschitzke should get a plane ticket to New Zealand after a month in the VFL, while Tom Lee could also come in after he was a late withdrawal on Saturday. There is some doubt over Arryn Siposs, who was pulled out at the last minute for the second time this season. Tom Hickey and exciting key forward Spencer White, who kicked three goals for Sandringham, are other tall options. Jason Blake could replace Simpkin. The Saints will fly to New Zealand tomorrow with a 25-man squad that will be cut to 22 on Wednesday.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Saints will at least have home ground advantage in Wellington for the first AFL match played overseas for premiership points. Saints fans should be advised to not look too closely at the fixture – the next obviously winnable game doesn't come until Round 9. Scott Watters has a huge headache trying to contain opposition tall forwards and will be hoping Sydney's Sam Reid doesn't find some form before Thursday.

Stephen Milne (right) gets involved in a stoush between Bomber Courtenay Dempsey (left) and Ahmed Saad. Source: Getty Images

SYDNEY

INJURIES
Alex Johnson (knee) season
Gary Rohan (leg) indefinite
Rhyce Shaw (abdominal strain) 1 week

ON THE BLOCK: Lewis Roberts-Thomson will miss 3-4 weeks after having arthroscopic surgery on his injured knee. LRT was cleared of structural damage. Mitch Morton was far from spectacular in his return to the senior list while Lewis Jetta's wretched run continued against the Cats.

ON THE CUSP: Andrejs Everitt looms as the likely replacement for LRT after booting three goals in the NEAFL last week. Tommy Walsh could sneak a spot after kicking 12 goals in two weeks in the reserves. Craig Bird and Jed Lamb are thereabouts.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: No doubt the Swans would have pencilled in the Cats as a win, a hard-fought one at that. It doesn't get any easier in Thursday's landmark Anzac Day match in Wellington, New Zealand.

WEST COAST

INJURIES
Andrew Embley (foot) 1-2 weeks
Nic Naitnui (groin) 2-3 weeks
Mark Nicoski (hamstring) 3-4 weeks
Brad Sheppard (shoulder) test
Beau Waters (calf) test
Sharrod Wellingham (ankle) test
Darren Glass (shoulder) test

ON THE BLOCK: Bradd Dalziell came on as the substitute and failed to have an impact. That could work against him at selection on Thursday. Ashton Hams has lost his spark while Adam Selwood had a dog of a day chasing Blues livewire Chris Yarran. Skipper Darren Glass remains in doubt after playing with a bung shoulder at the weekend. Looked in pain last Friday. Doubtful.

ON THE CUSP: Beau Waters is desperately needed in defence and after two weeks on the sidelines should be ready to go. Matt Rosa had 18 disposals and 10 marks in the WAFL while speedster Murray Newman impressed with 27 possessions and five marks. Brad Sheppard sat out with a shoulder and must prove his fitness at training. Andrew Embley probably needs another week.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: As far as pre-season predictions go, West Coast wouldn't have expected its clash against Port Adelaide in Round 5 to be a must-win. But that's exactly what it's shaping up to be with the Eagles reeling in 12th spot on the ladder and just one win, over Melbourne, to their name. Port is up and about. Most importantly, it believes again. The Eagles on the other hand struggled to kick a winning score last week. Their forward thrusts stunk, with long bombs too close to goal bringing about eight rushed behinds. Expect Josh Kennedy and Jack Darling to strike back after quiet outings against the Blues.

DOWN . . . West Coast Eagles captain Darren Glass clutches at his shoulder in the Round 4 clash with the Carlton Blues at Patersons Stadium. Source: PerthNow

WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES
Nathan Hrovat (calf) test
Ryan Griffen (shoulder) 1-2 weeks
Lin Jong (leg) 6 weeks
Tory Dickson (ankle) 7 weeks
Easton Wood (hamstring) 5 weeks
Shaun Higgins (foot) season

ON THE BLOCK: Ryan Griffen will come out with a shoulder injury, and is set to miss at least one week in a blow for the Dogs. Daniel Giansiracusa was quiet, as was Liam Jones in conditions that didn't suit him, while Jason Tutt faded out of the match quickly.

ON THE CUSP: There will be some changes this week. Patrick Veszpremi put himself in contention, while Clay Smith made the trip to Adelaide as a spare and remains on the fringe.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: Kicking 4.4 in an afternoon is just not good enough. It was an awful performance against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium. And the news gets no better this week up against the in-form Cats at Etihad Stadium. The only good news against the Crows was the performance of Adam Cooney. He will need some help against the Cats. Who can fly the flag?

SUPERCOACH WATCH- That man Cooney popped up with 136 points against Adelaide. His price is up $70,100 this season. On that front he's no match for Brett Goodes (106), who has jumped a whopping $165,800.

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