Bailey on the rocks

Happier times- Then Melbourne coach Dean Bailey with top picks Tom Scully and Jack Trengove at the 2009 draft. Source: Herald Sun

THE AFL's tanking investigation is taking a mounting personal toll on former Melbourne coach Dean Bailey, before a possible legal stoush with the league over his performance in 2009.

Bailey has engaged lawyer Chris Pollard to defend claims he brought the game into disrepute by failing to coach the Demons to their utmost throughout his second season in charge.

Bailey has been interviewed three times by the AFL's investigations department, which has served the former Dees coach, Melbourne chief executive Cameron Schwab and ex-football manager Chris Connolly with a 1000-page dossier containing the findings of the league's five-month tanking probe.

Schwab, Connolly and Bailey could be barred from the game if found guilty of engineering a tanking plot.

The AFL has demanded a response from the individuals and will decide by the end of the month whether to lay charges.

A source close to Bailey, 45, said the increasing emotional and financial cost of the tanking saga was concerning.

Melbourne has threatened to take the matter to the Supreme Court, meaning Bailey could face a legal bill of tens of thousands of dollars.

The Demons have engaged partners Leon Zwier and Caroline Goulden from leading law firm Arnold Bloch Leibler.

The club is believed to have questioned the definition of tanking and looked to other teams' performances in recent years.

Interviewees have expressed serious concerns about the allegedly threatening and intimidating nature of the interviews.

The AFL would have the resources to appoint a top-line legal team.

Top lawyers cost between $500 and $1000 an hour.

Bailey, now Adelaide's strategy and innovations coach, is scheduled to return to work on Monday, determined to clear his name.

After he was sacked by Melbourne in 2011, with 22 wins and 59 losses to his name, Bailey said: "I was asked to do the best thing by the Melbourne Football Club and I did it. I put players in different positions."

The AFL is understood to have interviewed about 20 people, including current and former Melbourne staff and players, about the club's on-field intentions in 2009.

The Dees won four games, ensuring they secured the prized first two selections in the national draft, used to gain Tom Scully and Jack Trengove.

23.49 | 0 komentar | Read More

Rich sets standard for Lions

The Brisbane Lions are determined to end their finals drought with an impressive showing this season.

Daniel Rich at training today with the Brisbane Lions. Picture: Mark Calleja Source: The Courier-Mail

BRISBANE Lions star Daniel Rich says players, not coaches or administrators, should be responsible for setting conduct standards on and off the football field.

Behaviour has again been in the spotlight during the Christmas break, with players from several AFL clubs involved in ugly incidents.

Gold Coast midfielder Harley Bennell has been arrested and charged for his role in a New Year's Eve brawl in Mandurah, Western Australia.

Collingwood midfielder Marley Williams was charged with assault in Albany in December while three Demons were in hot water over a boozy Boxing Day at the MCG.

Rich did not agree that the incidents were a sign of players, freed from the scrutiny and pressure of the premiership season, going overboard.

He did, however, insist that it should be left to club management to enforce conduct guidelines.

"It's a big focus here that you train hard and when you're away, enjoy yourself but don't do anything stupid," Rich said.

"We shouldn't rely on the coaches to be like schoolteachers.

"The boys have respect for the coaches and (behaviour) should be driven by players."

Lions coach Michael Voss is a big fan of Rich's attitude.

"I thought Daniel Rich had an outstanding pre-season last year and really stood head and shoulders above a lot of players," Voss said recently.

"He's still training at the same intensity but more are actually joining him at that standard."

Rich, 22, averaged almost 22 disposals last year and ran second in the club champion award, just two votes behind Joel Patfull. Barring any mishaps he is set to play his 100th AFL match this season.

There will be pressure on the midfielders to keep improving after the arrival of former Melbourne player Brent Moloney.

Incumbents Rich, Tom Rockliff, Jack Redden and Andrew Raines all had strong seasons last year but Moloney, Claye Beams, Jared Polec and Dayne Zorko will push for ball-gathering roles alongside former skipper Simon Black.

"It's been like that since I got here," Rich said.

"There's a lot of guys training well, running well, young midfielders pushing hard."

The Lions' quest for respect, rather than silverware, is an ongoing theme.

They finished four wins outside the eight last season, but signed off with wins against Adelaide, Port Adelaide and Western Bulldogs.

"I don't know what other teams would think of us. But it is about earning that respect," Rich said.

"If you're not making finals and you don't have as much respect . . . that's what you're here to do.

"These (pre-season) weeks are a stepping stone to that. It's in the back of the mind that we finished well."
 

23.49 | 0 komentar | Read More

AFL recruits get reality check

Looking back on Port's year of pain

The AFL Players' Association General Manager of Player Development Brett Johnson says young footballers must understand contractual dealings after the Kurt Tippett saga.

Young Richmond ruckman Liam McBean, centre, listens in during a seminar at today's AFL induction camp. Picture: Andy Drewitt Source: Herald Sun

Former Richmond forward Nathan Brown was one of the guest speakers at today's AFL induction camp for first-year players. Picture: Andy Drewitt Source: Herald Sun

THE newest crop of AFL footballers were told yesterday of the series of setbacks they can expect to encounter during their careers, which on average will last only six seasons.

Former Richmond and Western Bulldogs forward Nathan Brown told the 106 first-year players at the AFL players' induction camp at Etihad Stadium of the horrific broken leg he suffered with the Tigers in 2005.

The newcomers were shown the sickening replay of Brown's foot facing the wrong way after his leg snapped.

But it just wasn't the broken leg, mended with the help of a metal rod, that robbed him of probably 80 or 90 games of footy.

Brown said he suffered on-going problems with the leg after his hasty comeback and admitted he shouldn't have returned for at least 12 months, instead of trying to be a "big man" so he could line up against his former side in the opening round.

The players were also told they would have to deal with being dropped and could encounter many outside issues, including those stemming from relationships.

Other former and current players, plus AFL Players' Association staff, discussed and conducted workshops on a range of topics relevant to young players and what services and support are available to them.

The players will be taken through the AFL's various respect and responsibility policies today, including illicit drugs and gambling.

AFLPA general manager of player development Brett Johnson said it was important for the players to realise early in their careers that there is life after football.

"It's getting harder and harder for players so it's important that our services keep pace," Johnson said.

He said some mature-aged recruits had already worked full-time or had degrees and had a good understanding of the balance required compared to the majority of new players who had come straight from school.

With 13 per cent of players having multicultural backgrounds, and another 9 per cent being indigenous last year, Johnson said it was important to cater for everyone.
 

23.49 | 0 komentar | Read More

Burgess turns torch on Port players

Dom Cassisi and the rest of the Port Adelaide playing group were monitored over the Christmas break. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

ANY Port Adelaide player hoping for some sympathy from fitness boss Darren Burgess while Adelaide bakes in the heat should have a rethink.

After two years working with English Premier League club Liverpool, Burgess is enjoying the sun.

And his enthusiasm for extending the boundaries for players is fueled by the hot weather.

"I like training in the heat, it adds a great effect to the players," Burgess said.

"It makes everything a little bit harder.

"That makes them work harder so I am a fan of it. I did not see much of it over the last few years so I am welcoming it."

What impressed Burgess at Liverpool was the players' resilience. It is a mental toughness he wants to establish at Alberton and tireless work in the sun fits comfortably in his thought process.

"I want the Power to be a resilient team," he said.

"That is hard to get with a young team so we want to fast track that.

"With a young group you have to take them out of their comfort zone. There will be different drills and activities they have probably not done before to take them out of their comfort zone - that is the mental toughness."

The Power returned to work yesterday after a 13-day break but technology advances ensured there was no cheating the system while absent from Alberton.

The players had to meet targets for time trials, skinfolds and weight and they were constantly monitored.

"Every session was monitored for each player so we knew if anyone was not doing it or not doing it well enough," Burgess said.

"The players were really good and I could not compliment them any higher.

"The group as a whole, for being a young group, their enthusiasm and commitment is first class - it was a really nice surprise. There was no cheating, no hiding. Not only did we know what they did but we know exactly where they did it as well. So it is nice technology to have.

"Over the 13 days they had some time off - it was important to freshen them up. They had had a solid six weeks and no one lost fitness over the break. In fact, the 3km time trial was better than November when we last tested them. That was positive."

Burgess praised Kane Mitchell as a running machine and said fellow recruits Olilver Wines, Tom Clurey, Mason Shaw and Jake Neade were good runners with speed and endurance.

"The fitness side of things ... they are outstanding recruits," Burgess said.

"We will have to wait and see the skills side of things but certainly from a fitness point of view they are great."

23.49 | 0 komentar | Read More

Judd payment saga to drag on

Looking back on Port's year of pain

Carlton and Chris Judd's are challenging the AFL ruling that the dual Brownlow medallist's third-party deal with Visy must now be paid under the salary cap. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

THE stoush over Chris Judd's third-party deal with Visy may not be decided until a grievance tribunal is held next month.

Carlton, in conjunction with the AFL Players' Association, has challenged the AFL's ruling that Judd's $200,000 annual payment must be included in the Blues' salary cap.

The Players' Association is confident Judd, 29, has strong grounds to appeal the league's ruling.

The former Blues captain has been paid the money outside the cap for the past four years, but the AFL changed its stance in November.

It is unlikely the tribunal hearing will be held this month, meaning the issue may not be resolved until the eve of the NAB Cup, which starts on Friday, February 15.

Carlton coach Mick Malthouse has warned the AFL it has made a mistake.

"When you start changing the rules halfway through, I'm just astounded," Malthouse said.

"I don't think it's fair on either (Carlton or Judd) . . . and any other player. The league may have been painting themselves into a very, very dark corner."

The Blues will hit the training track tomorrow at Visy Park in their first major hit-out since Christmas.
 

23.49 | 0 komentar | Read More

AFL guilty in tanking war: Thomas

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou has warned anyone found guilty of tanking will "never work in football again". Source: Herald Sun

FORMER St Kilda coach Grant Thomas says tanking charges against Melbourne will blow up in the AFL's face if they end up in court.

Thomas, a vocal critic of league headquarters and CEO Andrew Demetriou, says the AFL is complicit in any rule breaking because it provided an incentive for clubs to lose.

Former Melbourne coach Dean Bailey and officials Cameron Schwab and Chris Connolly are believed to face charges including draft tampering and bringing the game into disrepute.

The AFL's tanking investigation centres on the 2009 season, when the Demons lost six of their last seven matches to finish the season on four wins and qualify for a priority draft pick.

"AFL is putting themselves into a corner with tanking saga that will eventually expose their own behavior & test their strategies legally," Thomas tweeted today.

"Any decent senior counsel would be able to rip the AFL apart in a witness box. Honorable Andy won't want to get in the box - GUARANTEED!"

Thomas said players always tried to win but officials could make decisions to reduce their chances.

He said it was impossible to prove the real motivation behind selection decisions and calls from the coach's box on game day. But he had little doubt tanking was real.

"If comp manager provides incentive for losing what do u expect? Players try but club realise greater reward is extra draft pick than 5th win."

Melbourne officials are digesting an 800-page document into  tanking allegations - and potential charges - against the club.

The documents were handed to chief executive Cameron Schwab, Chris Connolly and former coach Dean Bailey sometime before December 25.

Lawyers for the club, and Bailey's own personal representation, have been scouring the explosive allegations and must answer to interim AFL football operations manager Gillon McLachlan before the end of January.

The three parties involved must state their reasons why they should not be charged.

If the AFL does lay charges, it is likely to happen late this month, in order to give the Demons time to respond to the evidence and prepare their defence.

It is believed Bailey is facing three allegations which include tampering with the draft, not coaching to his full ability and bringing the game into disrepute in the 2009 season.

Schwab and Connolly however are only facing two charges -  tampering with the draft and bringing the game into disrepute.

At this stage lawyers plan to argue over the definition of tanking.

"The way the investigation has been carried out from a legal point of view is quite extraordinary, with some of the questioning," a source close to the Demons told Fairfax Media.

"There potentially could be a good challenge to the AFL rules. I think it's fairly fraught with danger the AFL going down this path."

The AFL investigation has centred on comments made in a Demons football department meeting run by football operations manager Chris Connolly, pictured with Dean Bailey, allegedly reminding staff about the importance of the extra draft pick. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

Melbourne is believed to be willing to take the matter further if charged and found guilty of the offences, perhaps even as far as the Supreme Court.

While Melbourne could be hit with heavy fines or loss of draft picks, there is mounting belief the AFL would prefer to penalise individuals, rather than the club, if it is found guilty of deliberately losing games.

Former Melbourne player Brock McLean triggered the AFL investigation when he claimed in July he quit the club because it had set out to lose games in 2009.

"You can't create a good culture by going out and experimenting and trying to get draft picks and losing games of football," McLean said. "It goes against everything you're trying to do."

As revealed by Jay Clark for News Limited last week, the AFL has interviewed and re-interviewed a host of former and current officials who were at the club in 2009.

Some of the interviewees were subsequently told as many as 12 people had provided the AFL's investigators with potentially incriminating details about the club's intent throughout the second half of the 2009 campaign.

Melbourne administrators allegedly held a secret meeting in 2009 to plot their tanking strategy. The end game was to secure the first two picks in that year's national draft.

It is also believed the AFL has inquired about knowledge of a follow-up meeting between Bailey and Schwab at Schwab's house.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou previously warned any person found guilty of manipulating the result of a match would "never work in football again''.

Connolly, however, is at the centre of the storm after it was reported he reminded football officials about the importance of losing matches to improve the club's draft position.

But Robert Shaw, who was Fremantle's football operations manager when Connolly coached the Dockers, said previously that Connolly could not have been "solely responsible''.

Unusual tactical moves in the Dees' losses to Sydney (Round 17) and Richmond (Round 18) have been the subject of intense speculation.

23.49 | 0 komentar | Read More

Suns of anarchy they are not

Gold Coast Suns young gun Harley Bennell arrested and charged over a New Year's Eve brawl in Mandurah.

Suns coach Guy McKenna denies there is a culture problem at his club. Picture: Tim Marsden Source: The Courier-Mail

SUNS coach Guy McKenna insists the club is not developing a culture problem, despite star midfielder Harley Bennell's arrest in the club's Christmas break last week adding to a series of off-field issues.

Bennell was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct and failing to obey an order given by a police officer in his home town of Mandurah, south of Perth, on New Year's Eve.

The incident follows veteran Campbell Brown and then first-year players Maverick Weller, Joel Wilkinson and Jacob Gillbee being detained by police after an alleged bar-room brawl in Thailand in 2011, while defender Nathan Bock was suspended by the AFL for his part in a betting scandal in the same year.

Trent McKenzie added to the club's woes when he was suspended for turning up late to a recovery session last season following a night out.

McKenna admits slip-ups off the field were inevitable but is adamant the problem is not out of control.

When asked yesterday if a culture problem was developing at the club, McKenna replied: "Clearly not and it's not an issue whatsoever.

"When the boys go home to have a break and let their hair down, things will happen.

"You are always disappointed when your club gets shown in a bad light but the AFL, the AFL clubs themselves, coaches, senior players and all the playing group have to take responsibility and continue to drive for perfection."

The Suns will wait until Bennell's court case next Tuesday before determining if the incident will receive a club-imposed sanction.

But McKenna revealed Bennell's teammates would get the chance to air their thoughts on the matter as the club strived to be in the news more for the right reasons.

"In the scheme of things (Harley's incident) is not great but our pre-season has been good on and off the field and we will continue to move forward," McKenna said.

"The playing group will (get the chance to) air their grievances and we will come down after the court case and speak to Harley about all that.

"We want to make sure we become a club full of cleanskins and that's what you strive for."

The Suns squad resumed post-Christmas training yesterday under the watchful eye of McKenna, who is not due back from holidays for another week.

"I just wanted to see how they had come back from the break and leading into Christmas we had a really good physical block of training," McKenna added.

"Looking at the shape of them, they look pretty good."

Bock was seen jogging laps around Metricon Stadium as he attempts to keep his ambitious bid to return from a broken leg in round 1 on track.

But McKenzie was kept to light duties as the club continues to monitor his knee injury.

"He will need another one or two weeks to get over his knee injury," McKenna said.

"But round 1 is still a fair way away (March 30) and there is still a lot of time for him to get right."

23.49 | 0 komentar | Read More

Roos won't risk Wells

Looking back on Port's year of pain

North Melbourne coach Brad Scott says Daniel Wells will be ready for round one of the AFL season.

Daniel Wells is battling achilles and calf problems. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

NORTH Melbourne coach Brad Scott is hopeful star midfielder Daniel Wells will play in Round 1 despite more injury concerns.

Wells is still battling achilles and calf issues that caused him to miss three matches late last season and hampered his output in the Roos' elimination final loss to West Coast.

The 27-year-old has been on a managed pre-season program - including modified training on the club's training camp in Utah - and skipped the first full training session of the new year yesterday.

The rest of the Roos' squad sweated it out in a gruelling three-hour session in 35deg heat.

Coach Brad Scott said the club was taking a safety-first approach with Wells, who missed all of pre-season last season after a life-threatening blood clot.

Scott said he was hopeful Wells' fitness base would allow him to pick up the pace in time for North Melbourne's Round 1 clash against Collingwood on March 31.

"Last year even though he had the blood clot issue he still got a lot of aerobic work in, and the year before he had a terrific pre-season, so we know what he's capable of when he's fully fit," Scott said.

"So our focus is on just getting him fully fit and not taking any risks.

"We know when he's at his best and he's got some continuity he's one of the best players in the competition."

The eye-catcher at yesterday's session was Majak Daw, who is pushing for a senior debut after being promoted to the senior list.

The departure of Hamish McIntosh to Geelong leaves Daw and former Sydney big man Daniel Currie - picked up at No.56 in the national draft - challenging No.1 ruckman Todd Goldstein.

"That's going to be exciting for us and it's a bit of a new era," Scott said.

"Hamish was really important to us but now we've got three young ruckmen who are all going to push each other pretty hard."

23.49 | 0 komentar | Read More

2013 club-by-club fixture preview

Jimmy Bartel's Cats will enjoy a cushy back-end to the season once the Skilled Stadium upgrade is complete. Picture: Peter Ristevski Source: HWT Image Library

Essendon recruit Brendon Goddard must wait until Round 4 to come up against his old side. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

A mountain of hype is already surrounding Mick Malthouse's showdown with Collingwood in Round 2. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

THE Hawks twice or the Giants twice? Two trips to Perth or an array of Friday night blockbusters? Six-day breaks or a lengthy spell? These are the quirks that can define a club's season and the careers of coaches and players alike.

Over the next three days SuperFooty will bring you a comprehensive guide to the fixtures of all 18 clubs.

Today we add Geelong, Gold Coast and GWS to the list now including half the clubs.

Tomorrow, we preview Hawthorn, North Melbourne and Melbourne.

ADELAIDE:

EASY GAMES:
Seven of Adelaide's away games are against non-finalists, giving the Crows a dream chance to push for another top-four finish. And expect Brenton Sanderson's mob to fire early. They don't meet a 2012 finalist until Round 6 (Hawthorn), and play just one 2012 contender in the first eight weeks. Adelaide also has no return matches against top-four sides.

CRUNCH GAMES:
The Crows host grand finalists Hawthorn and Sydney at AAMI Stadium. Pencil those in as eight-point games, while a trip to the Gabba to face the Lions in Round 2 – a fixture the Crows threw away last season with a sloppy loss – could also prove pivotal.

TOUGH GAMES:
Two trips to Perth is never easy, especially in the back half of the season. Rounds 18 and 23 the Crows head west, ending their home-and-away campaign against West Coat. Ouch. Trips to the MCG to face Carlton and Collingwood could shape as finals barometers.

ONE WITH ADDED SPICE:
The Crows will avoid a home-and-away bout with Kurt Tippett, so you can't go past the two showdowns against Port Adelaide.

SUMMARY:
Two Friday night blockbusters, including the season-opener, is a big win commercially. And it seems on the field the Crows have again hit the jackpot. Three MCG games will help come September, while the platform is there early to again

OPENING MONTH:
Round 1 v Essendon (AAMI)
Round 2 v Brisbane Lions (G)
Round 3 v Port Adelaide (AAMI)
Round 4 v Western Bulldogs (AAMI)

Follow Sam Landsberger on Twitter @SamLandsberger

Crows chairman Rob Chapman has vowed Adelaide will be a big player in the free agent market next year. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: Herald Sun

BRISBANE LIONS

EASY GAMES:
The Lions will back themselves to take six wins from six games against the Dogs, Dees and Suns. A stretch of late-season games against the Suns, Roos, Dees, Port, Saints, Tigers, Giants and Dogs will define whether Brisbane is a legitimate finals contender. Only four six-day breaks is an added bonus and should keep Michael Voss's side fresh.

CRUNCH GAMES:
Home games against sides in the bracket one up from Brisbane will prove pivotal. The Lions host North Melbourne, Carlton and St Kilda and must start winning those encounters to take the next step.

TOUGH GAMES:
Plenty. Fremantle in Perth, Geelong in Geelong andSydney at the SCG. The Lions also travel to Tasmania to face Hawthorn and host West Coast and Collingwood at the Gabba. But, Brisbane did knock off the Eagles at home last year and will take confidence from that.

ONE WITH ADDED SPICE:
Nothing stands out, but Stefan Martin and Brent Moloney will enjoy their former Dees teammates heading up to the Gabba to square-off in Round 5. The Q-Clashes should step up a gear if Gold Coast can become competitive more often than not.

SUMMARY:
A blow to the old Fitzroy fans with just four games in Melbourne and one in Geelong. Particularly when the Lions requested six games in Melbourne. But a clutch of games against lowly sides and a soft run to the line will please Voss.

OPENING MONTH:
Round 1 v Western Bulldogs (ES)
Round 2 v Adelaide (G)
Round 3 v Gold Coast (MS)
Round 4 v North Melbourne (ES)

Sunday Mail - Lions v Suns AFL at the Gabba Photo - David Kapernick Picture: David Kapernick Source: HWT Image Library

CARLTON:

EASY GAMES:
The Blues cashed in seven of their first eight games in Melbourne, although there are some tough opponents in there. Collingwood is the sole 2012 finalist the Blues face twice, while they have doubled-up against Port Adelaide. Carlton also finishes with the Power, Dogs and Suns inside the final six rounds. Here's hoping the late-season trip to Metricon Stadium goes better than last year.

Bold 2013 predictions: Saints to slide, Tigers to rise and a surprise Blues skipper

CRUNCH GAMES:
Plenty, starting with Richmond in Round 1. In fact, the opening five weeks will set the tone for Carlton's debut year under Mick Malthouse. It reads; Tigers, Pies, Cats, Eagles (away), Crows. If the Blues can scramble to a 3-2 start you'd think they'd take it. Duels with Brisbane away and the Richmond-Essendon double late in the year should also help define Carlton's year.

TOUGH GAMES:
The Eagles away in the first month is the first real litmus test for Carlton. A three-game stretch of Hawthorn, Sydney away and Collingwood will also test just how far the new Blues have come.

ONE WITH ADDED SPICE:
Round 2. Mick Malthouse v Collingwood. Is there a game the football world is more eagerly anticipating than that? She'll be an absolute corker in front of a packed MCG but, strangely, during the Sunday twilight slot. Imagine Mick walking off a winner and screaming out "we're the old, dark navy Blues" against the side he steered to five Grand Finals and a breakthrough flag? Bring it on.

SUMMARY:
A challenging month early, but as the Blues said when the fixture came out, you may as well get them out of the road early. The Blues kept their 9-8 split of games between Etihad Stadium and the MCG, but will be disappointed the first Mick v Collingwood blockbuster is an away fixture. An even mix with the majority of games against sides in the middle tier.

OPENING MONTH:
Round 1 v Richmond (MCG)
Round 2 v Collingwood (MCG)
Round 3 v Geelong (ES)
Round 4 v West Coast (PS)

Carlton Training Mick Malthouse lays down the law Picture: Norm Oorloff Source: HWT Image Library

COLLINGWOOD:

EASY GAMES:
A four-round midseason stretch against the Lions, Dees, Dogs and Power (with a bye tossed in the middle) should give some June relief for Magpie fans. The Pies travel just five times, and three of those are against bottom-eight sides. And their first road trip isn't until Round 7, when they head west to take on the Dockers.

CRUNCH GAMES:
Geelong, West Coast and Sydney all at the MCG will be huge. Throw in the four combined bouts against Carlton and Essendon and those are the games that will make or break Nathan Buckley's side.

TOUGH GAMES:
The Magpies must face the two sides who combined for a one-two knockout punch of the Pies last September twice – Hawthorn and Sydney. That hurts. Should we pencil in Sam Mitchell for six Brownlow votes now? Meanwhile the trip to Patersons to face Fremantle will also be a big test. Six six-day breaks aren't ideal, while the Pies will have just five days off before Anzac Day.
 
ONE WITH ADDED SPICE:
Again, can't go past the showdown with Mick Malthouse. The Round 2 blockbuster will have the eyes of the football world watching on as the one-time Collingwood hero tries to plot its downfall from the cockpit of its greatest rival. This will be huge, and, for once, edges Anzac Day as the most eagerly-awaited Magpie match.

SUMMARY:
"Balanced" was the word chief executive Gary Pert used when the draw came out and it's hard to argue with. Seven Friday night matches is a typical commercial boom, while the Pies will own a lot of Sunday football this year as the AFL tries to ramp up interest after a swathe of uncompetitive and poorly attended matches to end rounds in 2012.

OPENING MONTH:
Round 1 v North Melbourne (ES)
Round 2 v Carlton (MCG)
Round 3 v Hawthorn (MCG)
Round 4 v Richmond (MCG)

Collingwood players listen to instructions during their pre-season training session. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON:

EASY GAMES:
Only the Giants twice of last year's bottom four in a bit of a blow. But a trio of matches against Port Adelaide, GWS and the Dogs from Rounds 15-17 should provide some late-season wins, a rarity for the Dons in recent years.

CRUNCH GAMES:
It starts Round 1 with a stand-alone trip to face Adelaide. Geelong in Round 7 will also be a big test, while the Bombers' final three games could prove their most defining. They end with North Melbourne, Carlton and Richmond – three sides who punters think will be fighting for a lower-rung finish in the eight, much like Essendon.

TOUGH GAMES:
Take your pick. Two trips to Perth, Collingwood twice and a duel with premier Sydney at the SCG. The Dons also face West Coast twice, while six six-day breaks will put pressure on "The Weapon" to get the Bombers match-fit.

ONE WITH ADDED SPICE:
Lock in Round 4 v St Kilda. The Brendon Goddard match. The Dons pinched the Saints' marquee man in the first major free agency coup and you can expect a bit of spite in this one, at least from over the fence. The Round 11 match against Carlton – marking Essendon's 140th anniversary – will also be one with a big build up.

SUMMARY:
Plenty of tough encounters but a good test for Bombers, who are ready to take the next step, at least according to the punters. Should find the 13 wins needed for finals action if they're good enough.

OPENING MONTH:
Round 1 v Adelaide (AAMI)
Round 2 v Melbourne (MCG)
Round 3 v Fremantle (PS)
Round 4 v St Kilda (ES)

Essendon legend James Hird can see change for the better on the horizon. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

FREMANTLE:

EASY GAMES:
The Dockers host the Dogs, Tigers, Dees, Lions, Roos, Saints, Giants and Power. Hard to see any of those sides heading west and collecting the points. Then when you factor in road trips against lowly sides such as Melbourne, the Suns, Dogs and Saints (who the Dockers beat last year) it makes for a cushy ride. Expect Fremantle to peak midseason. Following the Round 11 bye it plays five of its next six games at home.

CRUNCH GAMES:
Round 1 v West Coast. The stand-alone derby will be a ripper, while the Round 7 duel with Collingwood at home will also help shape the Dockers' year. Away ventures to meet middle-rung sides like Richmond (Round 17) and Carlton (Round 19) will also be big.

TOUGH GAMES:
The Perth clubs hate the long trip to Tasmania, and that's exactly what Fremantle has copped in Round 4 against Hawthorn. Must also travel to Geelong and to the SCG to face Sydney. Hard to see many wins there.

ONE WITH ADDED SPICE:
The Round 1 derby – a home game for Fremantle – will be a monster clash. These sides hate each other and it'll be great for the entire football world to tune in and see it with no other matches that day. You can bet the coach has also earmarked the two matches against St Kilda as ones he desperately wants to win.

SUMMARY:
A big win off the field with a pair of home Friday night bashes early. The travel schedule isn't ideal but the first four home games, against the Eagles, Dons, Tigers and Magpies should generate a mountain of hype. If the Dockers can continue their momentum from the tail of 2012 they'll be exciting to track on the big stage.

OPENING MONTH:
Round 1 v West Coast (PS)
Round 2 v Western Bulldogs (ES)
Round 3 v Essendon (PS)
Round 4 v Hawthorn (AS)

Fremantle skipper Matthew Pavlich kicked six goals in the elimination final win over Geelong. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG:

EASY GAMES:
A cushy back-end to the season should give the Cats a nice launching pad for September, should they once again feature. Seven of their final 13 matches are at Simonds Stadium, while they face Port Adelaide, Gold Coast and GWS leading into the bye. If Geelong can break even in the first eight rounds you suspect they're going to again be in the thick of it at the pointy end.

CRUNCH GAMES:
You'd regard two matches against Hawthorn as 'tough games' for all clubs – except Geelong. Can the Kennett curse continue? Another pair of wins against Alastair Clarkson's mob would give the Cats a big lift. Sydney at Simonds Stadium also looms as a big encounter, while Corey Enright and Paul Chapman will (barring injury) play their 250th matches in consecutive weeks against the Tigers and Bombers.

TOUGH GAMES:
West Coast in Perth in Round 21 shapes as a tough ask, and Chris Scott can expect another hostile reception after his words on the Eagles' fans last year. The trip to face Adelaide at AAMI Stadium also looks tough after the walloping the Crows dished out in the corresponding fixture last year. The Cats must also play off three consecutive six-day breaks leading into their Round 4 duel with Sydney at the SCG. That makes for a testing start to the campaign.

ONE WITH ADDED SPICE:
Finally welcoming Gazza back to Simonds Stadium in the ground's maiden night match should excite the Cats fans – Ablett missed Gold Coast's first visit to Simonds Stadium with injury. It will also be Josh Caddy's first showdown with his old Suns mates. You also get the feeling the Cats will be eager to host Fremantle in Round 14 and atone for last year's finals meltdown.

SUMMARY:
The unavailability of Simonds Stadium for the first nine rounds makes for a tricky start, but just six road trips and four of the final six games at home evens it up nicely. The Cats are pleased, and the ability to play night games at an upgraded Skilled Stadium has the club and community excited.

OPENING MONTH:
Round 1 v Hawthorn (MCG)
Round 2 v North Melbourne (ES)
Round 3 v Carlton (ES)
Round 4 v Sydney (SCG)

Cats Open Training Session. sprints: Joel Selwood and Paul Chapman Picture: Glenn Ferguson Source: HWT Image Library

GOLD COAST:

EASY GAMES:
The Suns have doubled up against 2012 stragglers Melbourne, Port Adelaide and GWS and host the Western Bulldogs at Metricon. If they take the leap forward they internally expect to, they could match their club history of six wins in that block alone. The Suns have also drawn just two six-day breaks – the least in the competition. Nice.

CRUNCH GAMES:
The two Q-Clashes should take a step up in competitiveness and stature this season, while there will finally be pressure on the Suns to convert their home matches into wins. The Suns host seven non-finalists at Metricon Stadium this year and will be hell-bent on winning the majority. Gary Ablett is 18 games from notching his 250th and, if he stays fit, it could be against Carlton at Metricon – a ground holding plenty of nightmares for the Blues.

TOUGH GAMES:
Those outside Carrara headquarters could confidently pencil in losses against the Swans at the SCG, Hawthorn at the MCG, Geelong in Geelong and West Coast in Perth. Still,

ONE WITH ADDED SPICE:
The Suns should have a point to prove in Round 5, when they head to Canberra to take on GWS. They were embarrassed last year, becoming the first side to go down to GWS and will be desperate to atone.

SUMMARY:
A dream draw, particularly early, when the Suns face just one finalist away in the first eight rounds. It looks among the easiest in the competition on paper, but things can change quickly once the first ball is bounced.

OPENING MONTH:
Round 1 v St Kilda (MS)
Round 2 v Sydney (SCG)
Round 3 v Brisbane Lions (MS)
Round 4 v Port Adelaide (MS)

Gold Coast Suns continue there training at Metricon Stadium, Carrara ahead of next season - Harley Bennell, David Swallow and Jaeger O'Meara Picture: David Clark Source: HWT Image Library

GWS:

EASY GAMES:
Put simply; none. But a cluster of winnable games for the baby Giants, which effectively boasts 25 first-round picks on their list.

CRUNCH GAMES:
The two duels with the Suns will be hotly contested, while the Giants will also fancy themselves against Port Adelaide twice (the side they beat to end Matthew Primus's coaching career) and the Dogs in Canberra.

TOUGH GAMES:
Take your pick. The ones which could get ugliest are the bout with Collingwood at the MCG, the trip to Tasmania to face the merciless Hawks and heading north to play Brisbane Lions late in the season as the young GWS outfit begins to tire, and the week after facing Fremantle in Perth.

ONE WITH ADDED SPICE:
Sheeds will drum up the Round 1 duel with Sydney with his marketing prowess, but the date with Gold Coast in Round 5 will be far more telling. GWS took the points in Canberra last year and would love to repeat the result. The Round 4 game against Melbourne at the MCG will give Dees fans another chance to dangle money bags at Tom Scully.

SUMMARY:
A nice fixture for most clubs, playing the Suns, Port and Dees twice each. The Swans are the only finalist the Giants face twice – and that's because they have to. Five games in Melbourne is a step up, while the spotlight will shine in Round 18 when GWS faces Collingwood under lights at the G. GWS finished 2012 with a percentage of 46 – a big test will be to see if they can lift that to around 60 this season.

OPENING MONTH:
Round 1 v Sydney (ANZ)
Round 2 v Port Adelaide (AAMI)
Round 3 v St Kilda (MO)
Round 4 v Melbourne (MCG)

AFL - GWS Giants training at Lakeside oval. Kevin Sheedy with his new draft picks Aidan Corr, Kristian Jaksch, Jono O'Rourk, Lachie Whitfield, Lachie Plowman and James Stewart. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: HWT Image Library

23.49 | 0 komentar | Read More