REPLAY: Saturday's NAB Cup action

Matthew Suckling injured his knee in this contest during today's NAB Cup match against Richmond. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

Hawk Derick Wanganeen pounces on Tiger Brandon Ellis during the first quarter at Aurora Stadium. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

FOLLOW today's NAB Cup action with games featuring powerhouses Hawthorn, Richmond, Geelong and Collingwood.

8.58pm - Lions win through to NAB Cup GF
Magpies 0.7.12 (54)
Lions 0.12.16 (88)
--
FULL TIME
Dockers 0.23.8 (146)
Bulldogs 0.5.7 (37)
--
Q4
Swans 0.9.12 (66)
Suns 0.3.6 (24)

BRISBANE will take on Carlton in next week's NAB Cup Grand Final.

The Lions smashed Collingwood by 34 points at Etihad Stadium tonight.

Rohan Bewick was the difference with four goals while Aaron Cornelius added three of his own.

The Magpies had no answers for the Lions' midfield brigade which provided perfect delivery for key forwards Cornelius, Bewick, Jonathan Brown and Stefan Martin.

Steele Sidebottom led the Magpies with 27 disposals while Dayne Beams finished with 23 possessions.

Meanwhile, Fremantle hammered the Western Bulldogs by 109 points at Mandurah.

Michael Walters finished with four goals while Nat Fyfe collected 30 disposals in the demolition.

8.46pm - Lions kick clear of Pies
Magpies 0.7.10 (52)
Lions 0.11.15 (81)
--
Q4
Dockers 0.21.7 (133)
Bulldogs 0.5.7 (37)
--
Q3
Swans 0.9.11 (65)
Suns 0.3.6 (24)

BRISBANE forward Rohan Bewick has put the game beyond doubt booting two last quarter goals to set up the Lions' five-goal buffer.

Bewick has four goals in a dominant display by the Lions at Etihad Stadium.

Brisbane will play Carlton in the NAB Cup grand final next week.

Meanwhile, Fremantle star Nat Fyfe sent a scare through the Dockers camp when he came off during the third quarter with an apparent shoulder injury.

But it was a false alarm with the classy midfielder returning a short time later.

8.27pm - Lions ramp up the pressure on Pies
Magpies 0.6.10 (46)
Lions 0.9.12 (66)
--
Q3
Dockers 0.17.6 (108)
Bulldogs 0.4.5 (29)
--
Q3
Swans 0.7.9 (51)
Suns 0.1.1 (7)

BRISBANE is about 20 minutes away from joining Carlton in the NAB Cup Grand Final.

The Lions lead Collingwood by 20 points with a quarter to play at Etihad Stadium.

Tom Rockliff has been important in the second half racking up the possessions (20) while chiming in with five clearances and four inside 50s.

Daniel Rich, Josh Green and Rohan Bewick (two goals) have all been dangerous with ball in hand.

Collingwood stars Dayne Beams and Steele Sidebottom are among the Magpies best with a raft of disposals and clearances to their names.

Meanwhile, Fremantle continues its rout of the Western Bulldogs leading by 79 points at three-quarter time.

Chris Mayne, Matt de Boer and Michael Waters lead the Dockers with three goals apiece.

8.07pm - Lions kick clear of Pies
Magpies 0.4.9 (33)
Lions 0.7.9 (51)
--
Q3
Dockers 0.14.4 (88)
Bulldogs 0.3.5 (23)
--
HALF TIME
Swans 0.7.8 (50)
Suns 0.1.1 (7)

BRISBANE is making light work of Collingwood early in the third quarter at Etihad Stadium.

The Lions are leading by 16 points after goals to Stefan Martin, Daniel Rich and Rohan Bewick in a dominant seven minutes of play.

The winner goes on to play in the NAB Cup Grand Final against Carlton.

Meanwhile, Fremantle continues its demolition of an under-manned Western Bulldogs outfit in Mandurah while Sydney is smashing Gold Coast at Blacktown.

In other news, Hawthorn is sweating on scans on Matthew Suckling's right keen after the key defender went down today.

Read more about Suckling's injury HERE

7.45pm - Pies, Lions locked in battle
Magpies 0.4.8 (32)
Lions 0.4.7 (31)
--
HALF TIME
Dockers 0.11.3 (69)
Bulldogs 0.2.5 (17)
--
Q2
Swans 0.3.4 (22)
Suns 0.1.1 (7)

COLLINGWOOD maintains its one-point buffer on Brisbane at the main break at Etihad Stadium.

Both sides exchanged blows during a hotly contested second quarter with Dayne Beams and Aaron Cornelius at the forefront.

Beams has 15 disposals and two goals to his name while Cornelius leads the Lions with three goals of his own.

Lions Joel Patfull and Patrick Karnezis worked their way into the contest during the second quarter.

Meanwhile, Jonathan Brown has struggled in his first pre-season match.

7.29pm - Dockers hammering Dogs in Mandurah
Magpies 0.4.6 (30)
Lions 0.3.5 (23)
--
Dockers 0.11.3 (69)
Bulldogs 0.2.5 (17)
--
Swans 0.1.2 (8)
Suns 0.0.1 (1)

FREMANTLE is putting the Western Bulldogs to the sword in its NAB Cup dead rubber at Rushton Park in Mandurah, Western Australia.

The Dockers have booted 11.3 (51) to the Bulldogs 2.5 (17) late in the second quarter.

Chris Mayne has been the chief destroyer with three goals while Matthew Pavlich has two.

Across the country in Sydney, the Swans lead Gold Coast by six points but have lost Alex Johnson to injury.

Johnson was stretchered off the ground.

Meanwhile, Collingwood leads Brisbane by seven points at Etihad Stadium.

Dayne Beams has been everywhere kicking goals and collecting a bunch of possessions through the midfield.

But the Lions have plenty to smile about with Aaron Cornelius providing a strong target inside the arc.

Cornelius already has three goals after slotting five against GWS last week.

Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: Herald Sun

7.10pm - Beams, Cornelius in the thick of the action
Magpies 0.2.4 (16)
Lions 0.2.3 (15)

CORNELIUS has picked up where he left off last week kicking two goals in the first quarter against Collingwood.

But the Lion's efforts were not enough to stave off the Magpies, who lead by one point at quarter-time after Dayne Beams' converted a set shot after the siren.

Quinten Lynch is the other goalkicker on the ground.

Beams starred in the first quarter picking up 10 disposals including three clearances.

Read more about Dayne Beams HERE

Meanwhile, Lions ball magnet Tom Rockliff butchered his seven disposals at 42 per cent efficiency. The SuperCoach gem also had three clangers.

Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: Herald Sun

6.48pm - Lions, Magpies do battle
Magpies 0.0.2 (2)
Lions 0.0.1 (1)

BRISBANE will be looking to book its spot in the NAB Cup Grand Final with victory over Collingwood at Etihad Stadium tonight.

The Lions have started the better working the ball through the midfield towards spearheads Jonathan Brown and Aaron Cornelius.

But the Magpies lead 2-1 early in the first quarter.

Cornelius, fresh off his bag of five goals last week, missed a sitter early in the first quarter after taking a strong contested mark.

Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: Herald Sun

6.13pm - Chapman leads Cats to victory
Cats 0.14.12 (96)
Kangaroos 0.12.12 (84)

TAKE a bow Paul Chapman. The wily forward booted three match-winning goals in the final quarter to bundle North Melbourne out of the NAB Cup race.

Scores were locked at 68 apiece going into the final quarter but Chapman unleashed inside the arc snapping two early goals before icing the game with only seconds left on the clock.

Chapman ended the Kangaroos hopes after Jack Ziebell put the visitors within six points.

Andrew Swallow led the Roos with 19 disposals including seven clearances. He also laid six tackles.

But it was the Cats old firm of James Kelly, Chapman and Steve Johnson who proved the difference.

Joel Corey played a role with 14 disposals and four marks including one late as North pushed to level the scores with only seconds remaining on the clock.

Tom Hawkins kicked three goals of his own but was largely unsighted in the last quarter.

North Melbourne's ruck stocks received a boost with Daniel Currie dominating the stoppages while Majak Daw provided plenty of spark at both ends of the ground.

Currie finished with 39 hit outs -- 30 more than rival Mark Blicavs.

5.58pm - Chappie inspires Cats
Cats 0.13.11 (89)
Kangaroos 0.11.11 (77)

GEELONG veteran Paul Chapman could be the difference between North Melbourne playing off for the NAB Cup grand final and not.

The Roos must win today's game to progress to the decider but Chapman has other ideas.

The veteran forward has kicked two goals in a hotly contested final quarter to put the Cats seven points up.

Josh Walker then added to the Roos pain when he ran in under pressure to kick his second goal of the match.

5.26pm - Roos charge back into contention
Cats 0.10.8 (68)
Kangaroos 0.10.8 (68)

TRAVIS Varcoe has levelled the scores at Simonds Stadium.

Varcoe got on the end of a centering kick from Tom Hawkins to tie the game up at 68 apiece at the final break.

North Melbourne made all the running in the third quarter with Kieran Harper, Lindsay Thomas and Aaron Black among the goalkickers.

Andrew Swallow remains off the ground with an ankle injury.

5.26pm - Roos charge back into contention
Cats 0.9.8 (62)
Kangaroos 0.9.7 (61)

NORTH Melbourne is making a late charge but Geelong leads nearing three-quarter time at Simonds Stadium.

The Kangaroos have kicked the last three goals of the match to get within one point of the Cats.

But it's not all good news for the Roos with skipper Andrew Swallow off the ground with what appears to be an ankle injury.

Swallow looked to roll his ankle late in the third quarter. He hobbled off the ground unable to weight on his right foot.

4.53pm - Hawkins punishes Roos
Cats 0.8.6 (54)
Kangaroos 0.6.2 (38)

TOM Hawkins has given Geelong some breathing space after North Melbourne headed the Cats, albeit briefly, at Simonds Stadium.

Hawkins' third goal, late in the second quarter, set up a 16-point buffer at the main break.

North Melbourne hit the front for the first time today when Lindsay Thomas and Aaron Black goalled within minutes of each other.

But not to be outdone the Cats hit back, Hawkins leading the charge with his second goal before skipper Joel Selwood extended the margin with a goal of his own.

Kangaroos boom ruckman Daniel Currie (23 hit outs) spent some time on the bench after landing heavily on his back in the centre-square.

But returned a short time later to help the Kangaroos lead the clearances 21-15.

Meanwhile, St Kilda ran away 25point winners over Melbourne after trailling the Dees by 22 points in the first quarter.

Leigh Montagna and Nick Dal Santo led the Saints to victory while Terry Milera and Stephen Milne kicked two goals apiece.

Nathan Jones and James Magner were the pick of the Dees.

4.38pm - Kangaroos take the lead
Cats 0.5.6 (36)
Kangaroos 0.6.2 (38)

Demons 2.5.6 (54)
Saints 2.9.9 (81)

NORTH Melbourne has hit the front at Simonds Stadium after back-to-back goals to Aaron Black and Lindsay Thomas.

George Horlin-Smith is getting plenty of the ball while Steven Motlop has two goals.

Scott Thompson leads the Roos with nine disposals including six rebound 50s.

INJURY UPDATE: Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson says it's likely Matthew Suckling has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament.

Meanwhile, St Kilda is cruising to a comfortable victory over Melbourne at Casey Fields.

The Dees led early but St Kilda responded with a string of goals.

Terry Milera and Stephen Milne have two goals apiece while for Melbourne James Sellar has two.

Demons star Nathan Jones has a supergoal to his name.

4.11pm - Roos hit back after Cats' fast start
Cats 0.3.6 (24)
Kangaroos 0.3.2 (20)

Demons 2.5.4 (52)
Saints 2.8.8 (74)

GEELONG speedster Steven Motlop has two goals in the Cats NAB Cup match against North Melbourne at Simonds Stadium.

But the Kangaroos have hit back with excitement machine Majak Daw kicking his first goal after a strong contested mark against three opponents.

Lindsay Thomas won a cheap free kick for a high tackle and made no mistake with his set shot to cut the margin to four points nearing quarter time.

North Melbourne must win the game to be any chance of playing off in the NAB Cup grand final against the winner of tonight's clash between Collingwood and Brisbane.

3.56pm - Cats, Roos draw battle lines
Cats 0.2.3 (15)
Kangaroos 0.0.0 (0)

Demons 1.3.4 (31)
Saints 2.6.8 (62)

GEELONG has broken the shackles early with Steven Motlop racing into an open goal against North Melbourne at Simonds Stadium.

Motlop pounced on the loose ball and made no mistake with his snap from a tight angle.

Josh Walker added to the Roos' woes with his first goal extending the margin midway through the term.

North Melbourne yet to score.

Meanwhile, Kangaroos ruckman Daniel Currie is dominating the stoppages up against Mark Blicavs.

The SuperCoach bolter is the Kangaroos No.1 option at the stoppages with Todd Goldstein out of the side.

Kangaroos veteran Brent Harvey was a surprise withdrawal from today's match.

Harvey was expected to play given his suspension carried over from last year's finals campaign rules the playmaker out for the first six weeks of the home and away season.

3.36pm - Jacks hands Tigers victory
Hawks 0.13.6 (84)
Tigers 0.13.7 (85)

Demons 1.3.4 (31)
Saints 2.6.8 (62)

HAWTHORN remains winless in the pre-season competition after Jack Riewoldt kicked his third goal after the siren to hand Richmond a one point victory.

Riewoldt took a strong contested mark at the death to set up the classy finish from 25m out on a slight angle.

Hawthorn had hit the front only seconds earlier when Jarry Roughead slotted his fifth goal.

Trent Cotchin led the Tigers with 28 disposals including four clearances. Bachar Houli was next best with 24 touches including a goal and two assists.

Sam Mitchell was the pick of the Hawks with 29 possessions including five clearances.

Meanwhile, St Kilda is making a mockery of Melbourne racing to a five goal lead after trailling by 22 points early in the game.

St Kilda booted seven of the past eight goals including two nine-pointers to set up the 31 point buffer at half-time.

Stephen Milne in his first game back has two goals as has Terry Milera.

Joel MacDonald continues to get plenty of the ball for the Demons.

3.16pm - Hawks edge clear
Hawks 0.11.6 (72)
Tigers 0.10.7 (67)

Demons 1.2.4 (25)
Saints 0.2.7 (19)

HAWTHORN is locked in a dour struggle against Richmond at Aurora Stadium.

The Hawks reclaimed the lead -- by five points -- after goals to Sam Grimley and Jarryd Roughead midway through the final quarter.

Richmond star Brett Deledio kicked his second of the game to keep the Tigers within range.

Meanwhile, St Kilda is kicking itself out of the NAB Cup match against Melbourne.

The Saints have kicked seven behinds as the game hangs in the balance midway through the second quarter.

2.58pm - Bachar keeps Tiges in front
Hawks 0.9.5 (59)
Tigers 0.9.7 (61)

Demons 1.2.2 (23)
Saints 0.1.2 (8)

RICHMOND defender Bachar Houli's goal after the siren has given the Tigers a two point lead going into the final quarter.

Hawthorn hit the front late in the quarter when Derick Wanganeen slotted his first and the Hawks' fourth for the term.

But Houli, not to be outdone, converted his long range bomb after the siren to give the Tigers some breathing space.

Meanwhile, Melbourne has burst clear of St Kilda in its NAB Cup match at Casey Fields in Cranbourne.

The Demons exploded in the first quarter with goals to Shannon, Lynden Dunn (supergoal) and Luke Tapscott to jump the Saints.

Terry Milera kicked the Saints' first goal late in the first quarter.

Matthew Suckling injured his knee in this contest during today's NAB Cup match against Richmond. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

2.51pm - Hawks fight back
Hawks 0.9.5 (59)
Tigers 0.8.7 (55)

HAWTHORN has fought its way back into contention against Richmond at Aurora Stadium.

Since moving forward Matthew Spangher has made an impact kicking two goals in the third quarter to cut the margin to three points.

Derick Wanganeen put the Hawks in front with his first goal late in the term.

Jarryd Roughead also chimed in as Richmond is paying the price of not putting the Hawks away after leading by 19 points at the main break.

But it's not all good news for the Hawks who are without Matthew Suckling after the key defender came off the ground with a knee injury.

Sam Mitchell continues to dominate the stoppages while young gun Bradley Hill has the ball on a string with 18 disposals and six marks.

Jack Riewoldt kicked three goals in Richmond's NAB Cup victory over Hawthorn. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

2.07pm - Jack gives Tigers breathing space
Hawks 0.5.3 (33)
Tigers 0.8.4 (52)

JACK Riewoldt has helped Richmond to a handy 19-point lead at the main break kicking his second goal of the match.

Riewoldt could have had three in the half but passed off to an unmarked Shaun Grigg in the goalsquare when lining up from 25m directly in front.

The Tigers dominated play in the first half barring a five-minute burst in the first quarter when Hawthorn kicked three goals to level the scores.

Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images Source: Getty Images

2.07pm - Tigers in control over Hawks
Hawks 0.5.3 (33)
Tigers 0.7.3 (45)

RICHMOND is making light work of a sluggish Hawthorn outfit at Aurora Stadium.

Veteran Chris Newman gave the Tigers the ideal start in the second quarter when he converted a set shot from close range.

Newman was the beneficiary of a 50m penalty against Hawk recruit Matt Spangher, who failed to return the ball to Newman after the umpire blew his whistle.

Jack Riewoldt added to the Hawks woes when he found an unmarked Shaun Grigg in the goalsquare to make it a 12-point ball game.

Hawthorn answered through Jarryd Roughead but it short-lived as Jake King pounced late in the term kicking his second goal.

Sam Mitchell leads allcomers with 15 disposals including five rebound 50s. Mitchell has also laid six tackles.

1.33pm - Hawks strike back
Hawks 0.4.0 (24)
Tigers 0.4.1 (25)

HAWTHORN is mounting a charge at Aurora Stadium after letting Richmond skip away to a cheap lead.

The Tigers kicked four of the first five goals before back-to-back Hawks goals cut the margin to one point.

Opportunist Shane Savage opened the floodgates snapping truly from the top of the square before Jed Anderson and Shane Burgoyne chimed in with goals in a hurry.

Burgoyne kicked the Hawks' first goal marking about 30m out uncontested.

Richmond threatened to kick away midway through the term when Tyrone Vickery and Jack Riewoldt slotted two goals in as many minutes.

Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images Source: Getty Images

1.22pm - King gives Tiges the lead
Hawks 0.1.0 (6)
Tigers 0.2.0 (12)

RICHMOND has started the better of the two sides with Jake King and Brett Deledio giving the Tigers an early lead at Aurora Stadium.

The 'Pushup' King made no mistake from directly in front after winning a free kick in marking contest.

Enter classy Deledio who rubbed salt into the Hawks wounds taking a strong pack mark before converting his shot on goal.

The near full-strength Tigers have dominated play early in the first quarter.

Join in our Live HQ coverage by tweeting your thoughts on today's games @gilbertgardiner or @superfooty

But Hawthorn veteran Shaun Burgoyne answered for the Hawks taking an uncontested mark in the pocket before cutting the margin to six points.

Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

1.10pm - Hawks, Tiges do battle
Hawks 0.0.0. (0)
Tigers 0.0.0 (0)

RICHMOND captain Trent Cotchin has drawn first blood, winning the toss against Hawthorn who remains winless in the NAB Cup.

The Hawks line up with Jarryd Roughead playing out of the goalsquare replacing the injured Lance Franklin.

Check back for regular updates and breaking news throughout the day.

18.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

Suckling injury a blow for Hawks

Matthew Suckling injured his knee in this contest during today's NAB Cup match against Richmond. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

Matthew Suckling injured his knee in this contest during today's NAB Cup match against Richmond. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

HAWTHORN has been dealt a blow with superboot Matthew Suckling suffering what appears to be a serious knee injury.

ALASTAIR Clarkson's dislike for the NAB Cup grew deeper yesterday when Hawthorn midfielder Matt Suckling left Aurora Stadium on crutches and seems destined for a season-ending knee reconstruction.

The Hawks' coach, who has labelled the AFL's preseason competition as a TV gimmick and nightmare for coaches, resigned himself to the fact that 25-year-old Suckling's year is over.

Statistically Hawthorn's best rebounding defender last season, Suckling spent the NAB Cup making his case for a spot further upfield with the departure of hard-running Hawk Clinton Young to Collingwood.

Suckling's knee gave way while he was evading a tackle from Richmond defender Troy Chaplin at the seven minute mark of the third quarter of their one-point NAB Cup loss to Richmond in Launceston yesterday.

Suckling will know his fate tomorrow after tests in Melbourne.

"It's more than likely going to be an ACL, and that's a great disappointment for us," Clarkson said.

Click for breaking news and match day coverage

"We've had five knee reconstructions in the past 12 months and that's the brutal nature of the game."

The Hawks coach is already dirty on the AFL for announcing its plan the slash interchange rotations from a league average of 130 per game to a cap of 80 next year.

"Once again, it (Suckling's injury) focuses on how important it is for us all to give serious consideration to the demands of this game on our players," Clarkson said.

"It's a very demanding game, in my view the most difficult ball sport to play in the world.

"We need to be especially mindful of the loads on our players."

The preseason competition, Clarkson said, was the most dangerous time for players.

"Most knee reconstructions happen either in the NAB Cup series or the first five or six rounds of the season," he said.

"We'll get the occasional one after their bodies are hardened and are match-conditioned.

"But this is a real precarious time for the players and unfortunately you're going to lose someone along the way and unfortunately we lost Suckling today.

"That's disappointing, but we'll have to replace him with another bloke and forge on."

Matthew Suckling injured his knee in this contest during today's NAB Cup match against Richmond. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

Hawthorn lost its fourth consecutive NAB Cup match yesterday, going down to the Tigers, who won 0.13..7 (85) to 0.13.6 (84).

Clarkson took solace from the loss,

"They (Richmond) looked to be in control of the contest but we hung in there and that was really pleasing," he said.

"We've played a lot of our young players over the series.

"Interestingly, us and Sydney sit on the bottom of the NAB Cup ladder.

"It's all because our preparations are a lot different to a lot of the sides.

"All four sides we played (Gold Coast, Brisbane, Bulldogs and Tigers) didn't play finals last year so they've had longer campaigns than us.

"We'll get our side a lot more stable over the next few weeks leading into the Geelong game in round one."

18.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

Jack leads Tiges to victory

Jack Riewoldt kicked three goals in Richmond's NAB Cup victory over Hawthorn. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

A GOAL after the final siren from Richmond star Jack Riewoldt has given the Tigers a heart-stopping one-point AFL pre-season cup win over Hawthorn at Aurora Stadium.

Riewoldt nailed the difficult six-pointer from wide to the left to hand Richmond a 0.13.7(85) to 0.13.6(84) victory after a seesawing final quarter in which the lead changed six times.

The victory gave Richmond a 3-1 record for the pre-season and left grand finalists the Hawks winless after four.

Hawthorn forward Jarryd Roughead booted three of his five goals in the final term, but it wasn't enough after his side had clawed back from a 19-point halftime deficit.

Riewoldt and Chris Newman finished with three each for the Tigers with Roughead supported by Shaun Burgoyne and Matt Spangher with doubles in front of 8601 in Launceston.

Hawthorn went into the game against the near full-strength Tigers without a number of big guns, including Lance Franklin, Cyril Rioli and captain Luke Hodge but Burgoyne and Grant Birchall made their first appearances of the year.

Richmond were all over them early and kicked four of the first five goals to race out to a 19-point lead.

But three goals in quick succession to Shane Savage, Jed Anderson and Burgoyne saw the Hawks finish the first term the stronger and at level pegging.

The Tigers came our growling in the second, booting four of the five goals to go to the long break up 0.8.4 to 0.5.3.

Riewoldt provided the comedy when he spectacularly somersaulted over the boundary fence and into one of the stands at Aurora, emerging unscathed moments later.

Hawthorn clawed their way back, kicking the first three goals of the third - two to Spangher - to narrow the margin to just three.

They hit the lead when Derick Wanganeen goaled but Richmond led by two points when Bachar Houli kicked a major on the stroke of three-quartertime.

18.19 | 0 komentar | Read More

Cats show class to beat Roos

Majak Daw flies high for the Kangaroos. Picture: Bear Mitch Source: Herald Sun

ALL summer they've been bonding, but Geelong decided to put a halt to its generosity towards North Melbourne yesterday.

Paul Chapman ended the goodwill when he kicked three last-quarter goals to snuff out the Kangaroos' dream of playing in their first pre-season grand final for 13 years.

North have been regulars at Simonds Stadium in recent months for shared training sessions, with the Scott brothers happy to help each other out.

Word has it that mixing with the enemy was not Chapman's cup of tea.

After spending most of the game in the midfield, the 31-year-old Norm Smith medallist went forward and turned the game after North had got out to a seven-point lead after a Lachie Hansen goal.

Jack Ziebell actually got the Roos -- who needed to win to reach the NAB Cup grand final -- back to within a kick with just 90 seconds remaining, but a handball over the top from Cam Guthrie to Chapman in the goalsquare sealed the 12-point victory with 15 seconds remaining.

Roos coach Brad Scott said his players reported the 37C heat in Geelong was more bearable than the conditions the team had faced in Townsville seven days earlier against Gold Coast.

"You've got the dry heat of Melbourne versus the oppressive humidity up in Townsville . . . they didn't feel it was a factor."

Scott admitted the Roos' big-man picture remained clouded. Majak Daw was again doing some exciting things. Daniel Currie, who rucked one-out with regular Todd Goldstein, was dumped to the reserves, where he impressed with 39 hit-outs, albeit against an inexperienced Geelong ruck division.

"Majak is going to keep getting better," he said.

"Again the things that he did well, you guys would have all seen them, but we have a much closer eye on the things that he is still learning and there were quite a few of them today.

"But what a great experience for him so whether he's pushing into our best side or not, it's going to be tough because we choose to rest Robbie Tarrant this week.

"Goldstein was good in the VFL and Currie was good albeit up against a 3000m steeplechaser (Mark Blicavs) who is an unbelievable story, as he looks like a Geelong player already."

The only injury concern for the Roos was skipper Andrew Swallow, who rolled his ankle in the third quarter, but he reappeared in the final term and played out the game.

There were plenty of positives for the Cats, who again rested a handful of stars including Jimmy Bartel, Harry Taylor and Corey Enright.

Last year's first-round draft pick, Jackson Thurlow, looks a likely type while George Horlin-Smith continued his progression and may have played his way into the Round 1 team.

Geelong star Steve Johnson was pivotal in the Cats 12-point win over North Melbourne at Simonds Stadium. Picture: Getty

Paul Chapman attempts to bust a tackle. Picture: Bear Mitch

Jack Ziebell attempts to extract the ball. Picture: Bear Mitch

18.18 | 0 komentar | Read More

Eddie slams Footy Show cash splash

McGuire rubbishes suggestions Swan didn't get club support.

COLLINGWOOD president Eddie McGuire has questioned The Footy Show's chequebook journalism in the wake of last night's Dane Swan interview on the Footy Show.

McGuire said he didn't watch the interview but was incensed that Swan's manager Liam Pickering and Channel 9 hadn't contacted him or the club before it was recorded.

McGuire also voiced concern at reports Swan had been paid to give the interview.

"If you're going to start paying $25,000, which is apparently what I'm hearing for an interview," he said

"Just as I'd like to know whether they paid Cloke last year and Leon Davis last year to come in and try to say some things that muddied the water at Collingwood, and even more importantly, whether they paid Mick Malthouse when he did that story that blew the club up in its quest for a premiership.

Swan denies he, or anyone at Collingwood, has drug problem.

"I'd like to know if there's been $100,000 spent on interviews with Collingwood players."

Collingwood yesterday slapped Swan with a fine in a fresh sign of tension between the Magpies and their most decorated current player.

Swan was summoned to a meeting with officials yesterday afternoon where he was told he would be sanctioned for taking part in a pre-recorded interview on Channel 9 that had not been authorised by the club's administration.

Under AFL rules, clubs cannot fine players more than $5000. It is believed Swan's fine is less than the maximum amount.

2013 preview: The Magpies will struggle to make the top four this season, according to Fox Footy expert Brad Johnson.

Short memory: Are Eddie's ethics everywhere?

But McGuire said he expected that ceiling to be lifted as a way of discouraging players from going outside the usual channels for arranging interviews.

"The fines will go up. This five grand fine for players. The AFL are onto this, it's going to go through the roof because people are snubbing it," he said.

"If I could make it 25 grand, I'd make it 25 grand to make the point"

Dane Swan at Collingwood training today. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

Injury setbacks for Ball, Didak

The former Footy Show host said Collingwood players would be hit hard if they spoke without club authorisation in the future.

"I'll give you the tip now, it won't ever happen at Collingwood again," McGuire said on Triple M this morning.

"Because every player who does not follow protocol at Collingwood, and I would speak for every club now, is going to get blistered and blistered hard.

Collingwood season preview - Will Pies make the top four?

"Philosophically, I didn't have an issue about him on The Footy Show. I was quite happy with what Swanny said last night.

"Swanny's pretty much done the right thing, if you like, and all the rest of it, but the protocol has been absolutely jumped over the top of."

Collingwood chief executive Gary Pert refused to comment when contacted yesterday afternoon.

The Magpies confirmed in yesterday's Herald Sun that they only learned of Swan's paid interview with The Footy Show after the deal had been negotiated and the interview had been filmed.

While Pert would not comment yesterday, a day earlier he told this newspaper that the club was "surprised" Swan had taken part in the interview without club permission.

Swan declares: I don't have a drug problem

"Dane's management negotiated and conducted the interview before the club's administration was advised," Pert said on Wednesday.

"While we encourage our players to do media work because our supporters enjoy it, we were surprised with the timing of this interview."

Paid interviews with former coach Mick Malthouse in 2011 and Travis Cloke last year caused serious tensions within the club.

It is understood a number of Swan's teammates expressed frustration at his decision to agree to the interview.

Some believed it was poor timing given the likely subject matter and the fact that the club is only 24 days away from its Round 1 clash with North Melbourne.

The 29-year-old, who has long railed against authority, was suspended by the club for two games last year turning up to training in an unfit state.

Swan, who has won three Copeland Trophies as well as the 2011 Brownlow Medal, has been the subject of much scrutiny in recent years in terms of his off-field behaviour.

In interview aired on Fox Sports last night, Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley conceded Swan has had to change part of his carefree nature to fit in with the club's program.

"Our football program has changed a little bit and our players have to move along with that," Buckley told Fox Sports.

"'Swanny' has come along for the journey, his attitude has been fantastic in what he has given to his teammates, but ultimately the true test is out on the field.

"There has been a lot of focus on 'Swanny' and rightly so when you have that many tatts you are going to get a little bit of attention."

Swan has been rested from tomorrow night's NAB Cup game against Brisbane, along with other stars Scott Pendlebury and Travis Cloke.

- with Glenn McFarlane

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Tigers in Tassie to win

Trent Cotchin returns to the team to lead the Tigers in Launceston tomorrow. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

IT MAY not be the 10-goal mauling the Tigers handed Hawthorn when they met last season but Richmond is determined to humble the Hawks again tomorrow.

The Tigers hit the immaculate green carpet at Aurora Stadium today for a relaxed run ahead of their Round 3 NAB Cup showdown with Hawthorn tomorrow at 1.10pm.

Already packing a 2-1 win-loss ratio and sitting sixth on the pre-season table, compared to a winless Hawthorn sitting second-last, Richmond is not just preparing its systems for Round 1.

"We've come here to win," assistant coach Ross Smith said.

"We beat both Grand Final teams last year, but we need to win games and build our confidence going into the season proper."

The Tigers have been boosted by the return of new captain Trent Cotchin and vice-captain Brett Deledio, ruckman Ivan Maric, midfielder Reece Conca and defender Steven Morris.

Richmond's new key defender Troy Chaplin has been tipped to play half a game on his way into the team after injury, and new midfielder Sam Lonergan, picked up from Essendon, will play most of the match in his first game back from injury.

"To have Chappy to bolster our backline is fantastic, and we've got a pretty good midfield as it is but Sam Lonergan adds a little bit of grunt and experience and compliments that," Smith said.

Changed man: Sam Lonergan wants to repay the faith the Tigers have shown in him. Picture: David Smith Source: Herald Sun

 

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Injuries mount for Giants

GWS star Callan Ward off the ground after head clash. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

GREATER Western Sydney co-captain Callan Ward and boom recruit Jono O'Rourke will take no further part in tonight's NAB Cup match against Essendon.

Ward collided with the Bombers midfield enforcer Heath Hocking in a marking contest early in the first quarter.

The classy midfielder's head then bounced off the turf leaving the former Bulldog worse for wear.

Click for Live HQ rolling coverage of tonight's NAB Cup action

Ward had one disposal to his name.

Hocking was reported following the incident.

He watched the remainder of the first half from the interchange bench.

Meanwhile, No.2 draft pick O'Rourke was subbed out of the match at half-time.

The young gun emerged on the interchange bench with heavy strapping on his right thigh.

O'Rourke, who was subbed on during the second term, finished with two disposals.

The latest injury comes as a blow for the emerging midfielder who has track record of hamstring injuries.

O'Rourke spent the bulk of the pre-season on a modified training program.

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LIVE: Crows v Blues

Adelaide spearhead Taylor Walker flies for a mark in the Crows NAB Cup match against Carlton. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

Brendon Goddard kicked a nice goal from deep in the pocket to extend the Bombers' lead. Picture: Getty Source: Herald Sun

ADELAIDE takes on Mick Malthouse's Carlton outfit looking to book its spot in the NAB Cup grand final next week.

9.47pm - Crows draw level at half time
Crows 2.7.4 (64)
Blues 2.7.4 (64)

IT'S a supergoal frenzy at AAMI Stadium with Adelaide and Carlton exchanging nine-pointers going into half time.

The Crows reclaimed the lead with back-to-back supergoals to Taylor Walker and Sam Jacobs.

But Marc Murphy hit back for the Blues slotting his own nine-point goal from outside the arc to tie the game up.

Walker has been the star inside 50 for the Crows booting three goals.

While Kane Lucas leads the Blues with three of his own.

Brock McLean orchestrated a Blues revival midway through the second quarter booting a supergoal of his own before snapping a regulation six-pointer moments later.

Crows ball magnet Scott Thompson is leading the way with 17 disposals including five clearances.

Crows spearhead Taylor Walker celebrates his nine-pointer against Carlton. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

9.31pm - Blues rally against Crows
Crows 0.7.2 (44)
Blues 1.5.4 (49)

CARLTON has hit back at Adelaide early in the second quarter with goals to Kane Lucas, his third, and Brock McLean.

Lucas got on the end of the handball at top of the arc before waltzing for his third goal.
 

McLean then hammered home the revival roosting a 55m drop punt for the first supergoal of the night.

The ball magnet then put the Blues in front snapping truly under pressure from the top of the square.

Adelaide spearhead Taylor Walker also has two goals to his name.

Carlton midfielder Mitch Robinson tries to break Brent Reilly's tackle. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

9.12pm - Crows skip away over Blues
Crows 0.6.2 (38)
Blues 0.4.2 (26)

ADELAIDE is threatening to break open its NAB Cup match against Carlton at AAMI Stadium.

The Crows were locked in a tough battle for much of the term before three quick goals to Taylor Walker, Richard Douglas and Josh Jenkins made it an 18-point ball game.

But the Blues responded with Dennis Armfield bursting inside 50 to kick his first and cut the margin to 12 points.

Armfield has been one of the Blues' best with two run down tackles on Crows star Patrick Dangerfield.

Meanwhile, Josh Jenkins put his hand up for the ruck/forward spot left vacant by Crows defector Kurt Tippett.

Jenkins kicked two goals in the first quarter.

A hot Patrick Dangerfield tries to cool down during quarter time Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

9pm - Blues, Crows locked in battle
Crows 0.3.2 (20)
Blues 0.3.2 (20)

A SHOOT out is unfolding as Adelaide and Carlton do battle at AAMI Stadium.

Kane Lucas has been the pick of the Blues early with two goals to his name.

But the Crows have responded each time the Blues threaten to bust the game open with Jared Petrenko, Josh
Jenkins and Patrick Dangerfield kicking first quarter goals.

Scott Thompson has been busy early collecting eight disposals while Jeff Garlett leads the Blues with seven possessions.

Crows Sam Jacobs and Patrick Dangerfield celebrate a first-quarter goal against Carlton. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

8.48pm - Blues, Crows exchange goals
Crows 0.1.2 (8)
Blues 0.1.0 (6)

KANE Lucas has given Carlton an ideal start converting an advantage situation for the Blues opening goal against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.

Lucas was the beneficiary of Dennis Armfield's run down tackle on Crows star Patrick Dangerfield.

Dangerfield turned the ball over failing to burn off Armfield at half-forward.

Lucas pounced and punished the Crows.

But Dangerfield responded moments later taking a mark inside 50 and making no mistake from the set shot.

8.29pm - Bombers demolish Giants
Giants 0.4.4 (28)
Bombers 1.16.14 (119)

PARTY time at Manuka Stadium with Bombers Cale Hooker, David Myers, Heath Hocking and Patrick Ryder kicking goals to cap off the Dons 91-point win over Greater Western Sydney.

Bombers skipper Jobe Watson was integral in the second of four late goals, winning the ball at half forward before finding Myers running full tilt towards goal.

Ryder added to the Giants pain slotting his third goal late in the final quarter.

But it's been the Watson show with the Brownlow medallist helping himself to 31 disposals at 93 per cent efficiency.

Watson chimed in with seven clearances and seven tackles.

8.01pm - Bombers get busy on Giants
Giants 0.4.3 (27)
Bombers 1.12.8 (89)

ESSENDON turned up the heat on GWS Giants after a slow start to the third quarter.

The Bombers moved to their biggest lead of the match -- 62 points -- in shadows of three-quarter time following Mark Baguley's goal from close range.

Baguley won a free kick outside the arc and then was awarded a 50m penalty when a Giants opponent got too close to the set shot.

Alwyn Davey broke the shackles moments earlier converting from 30m on a slight angle.

Essendon skipper Jobe Watson works through traffic at Manuka Stadium. Picture: Kym Smith Source: Herald Sun

7.40pm - Injuries mount for Giants
Giants 0.4.2 (26)
Bombers 1.9.7 (70)

GWS will be without Callan Ward and No.2 draft pick Jono O'Rourke for the remainder of the match.

O'Rourke, who was subbed off at half-time, emerged on the interchange bench with heavy strapping on his thigh.

Irishman Setanta O'hAilpin opened the scoring in the second half with a goal from the goal square.

7.11pm - Bombers lead by 50 points
Giants 0.3.2 (20)
Bombers 1.9.7 (70)

ESSENDON was lucky to kick a steadying goal after a mini Giants fightback late in the second quarter.

Bombers prospect Elliott Kavanagh was the beneficiary, pouncing on the loose ball in the goal square after Giants star Tom Scully dispossessed Jackson Merrett in a hard tackle.

Merrett played on after marking a centering ball but was run down, dropping the ball to the feet of a hard-running Kavanagh.

Ruckman Tom Bellchambers added salt to the Giants wounds kicking truly to give the Bombers a 50-point buffer at the main break.

Giants youngster Sam Frost sparked the resurgence racing in to kick his second goal of the match.

Rhys Palmer then converted his set shot after winning a free kick to cut the margin to seven goals.

Essendon skipper Jobe Watson is the leading possession winner on the ground with 19 followed by Rising Star Dyson Heppell who has 18 disposals.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 08: James Hird, coach of the Bombers, addresses his players during the round three of the NAB Cup AFL match between the Greater Western Sydney Giants and the Essendon Bombers at Manuka Oval on March 8, 2013 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

6.53pm - Bombers add to Giants pain
Giants 0.1.1 (7)
Bombers 1.7.6 (57)

ESSENDON continues to pile on the pressure against GWS Giants with Patrick Ryder and Heath Hocking extending the Bombers' lead to 50 points.

Hocking kicked the Dons' first goal of the second quarter snapping from the top of the square.

Enter Ryder who marked Michael Hurley's centering kick for the second in a hurry to put paid to the young Giants.

Giants skipper Phil Davis is under siege in the back half defending the Bombers onslaught. Davis has picked up eight disposals including three marks.

Meanwhile Callan Ward is off the ground after copping a heavy knock in the first quarter.

Ward, one of the Giants most important playmakers, had just one disposal to his name.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 08: Michael Hurley of the Bombers marks during round three of the NAB Cup AFL match between the Greater Western Sydney Giants and the Essendon Bombers at Manuka Oval on March 8, 2013 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

6.29pm - Bombers goal frenzy
Giants 0.1.1 (7)
Bombers 1.4.3 (36)

IT'S getting ugly at Manuka Stadium with Essendon skipping away late in the first quarter.

The Dons trailled the Giants by seven points early in the term before goals to Jackson Merrett, Jobe Watson, Brendon Goddard and Michael Hibberd silenced the home crowd.

Goddard's was the pick of the goals converting a difficult shot from deep in the pocket.

PRE-GAME: GREATER Western Sydney will be looking to continue its solid pre-season form when the Giants take on Essendon tonight.

The fledgling AFL club boasts a 1-2 NAB Cup record including a runaway victory against arch-rivals and reigning premiers Sydney.

Add to our LiveHQ coverage by tweeting your thoughts on tonight's games @superfooty or @gilbertgardiner

The Giants, set to unleash No.2 draft pick Jono O'Rourke against the Bombers, two losses have been by a combined five points at the hands of Carlton and Brisbane last week.

Essendon has named a largely unchanged line up for the tonight's match at Manuka Stadium with Tayte Pears and Nathan Lovett-Murray added to the squad.

See all the teams HERE

Veteran ruckman David Hille was left out.

Check back throughout the evening for breaking news and match updates

Meanwhile, Giants posterboy Tom Scully is back after missing last week's loss to the Lions with a minor knee injury.

CARLTON takes on Adelaide in game two of tonight's pre-season twin bill, with the winner moving into next week's NAB Cup grand final.

A win for the Blues at AAMI Stadium against the Crows would cap off a sterling start to master coach Mick Malthouse's tenure at Visy Park.

Schedule

GWS v Essendon at Manuka Stadium from 6.30pm
Adelaide v Carlton at AAMI Stadium from 8.30pm

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Injury blows for Tigers, Blues

David Astbury celebrates a goal for Richmond. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

RICHMOND defender David Astbury is in doubt for the start of the home-and-away season while Round 1 opponent Carlton has lost four players for at least five weeks.

Astbury will miss the final two weeks of the pre-season after sufffering what the Tigers describe as a "minor foot injury".

The young defender was on the brink of completing his first full pre-season since arriving at the club in 2009 and was one of Richmond's best players in its win against Essendon last Saturday, shutting down Bombers forward Michael Hurley.

But after the match Tigers medical staff discovered a "stress reaction" in his left foot.

Astbury is competing with the likes of Dylan Grimes, Ben Griffiths and former free agent Troy Chaplin for a place in the Tigers' defence in Round 1.

"It's very frustrating that I'll miss the opportunity to (push my case for selection), but hopefully I'll still be considered and get an opportunity soon," Astbury told the club's website.

Carlton, meanwhile, will be without tough midfielder David Ellard (hamstring) and rookies Andrew Collins (ankle) and Rhys O'Keeffe (heel) for the next five weeks.

And draftee Nick Graham won't play for two months after arthroscopic surgery to relieve swelling in his knee.

Key forward Jarrad Waite (calf) won't resume full training for two weeks and is in extreme doubt for the March 22 clash against the Tigers.

In better news for Carlton, Chris Judd and Heath Scotland are likely to play their first pre-season matches against Adelaide on Friday night.

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Concussions up but injuries down

Geelong doctors treat Joel Selwood after he was knocked out against St Kilda. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

THE injury rate for AFL footballers dropped last year, with the games missed per club during the 2012 season at its lowest level since 2008.

The league's annual injury survey, released today, reveals that quad and groin strains were at lower levels than 2011, but  players were suffering more calf strains and concussions.

But the AFL Medical Officers' Association would not comment on whether a proposed cap on interchanges – set to be introduced next season – would have any definable impact on injuries.

AFL active general manager Gil McLachlan said: "In the interests of player health and welfare, the injury survey helps to identify the most important areas for further AFL-funded research, with the primary goal of ensuring the game is safe and that our players have the best possible treatment and support when returning from any injury.

"The AFL will continue to consider and implement rule changes when necessary to improve player safety, not just at the elite level, but across all levels of our game for both adults and children."

Dr Hugh Seward said the recent rise in games missed for concussion had a lot to do with more conservative medical practices.

"The rise in concussion incidence over the last two years in the AFL corresponds with a worldwide trend amongst many sports to recognise the potential long-term effects of concussion and the adoption of a more conservative approach with return-to-play decisions," Dr Seward said.

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