Phoenix send Glory to bottom

Match winner ... Wellington Phoenix's Jeremy Brockie celebrates after scoring. Source: THERON KIRKMAN / AAP

Wellington survived some late pressure to climb off the bottom of the A-League soccer ladder by beating fellow strugglers Perth 1-0 in Auckland.

A first-half Jeremy Brockie goal was enough to give the Phoenix their first win of 2013 and drop the Glory to last place.

After a cagey start by both sides at Eden Park on Saturday, it was Perth who created the first real opening.

A superb through ball from former Phoenix midfielder Nick Ward put Chris Harold clear.

		P	W	D	L	GD	Pts
1	Central Coast	19	11	6	2	17	39
2	Victory	18	10	3	5	3	33
3	Western Sydney	18	10	2	6	8	32
4	Adelaide	18	10	2	6	4	32
5	Newcastle	18	6	4	8	-8	22
6	Brisbane	19	6	3	10	-1	21
7	Heart	18	6	3	9	-2	21
8	Sydney	18	6	2	10	-9	20
9	Wellington	19	5	5	9	-10	20
10	Perth	19	5	4	10	-2	19

The 20-year-old found himself one-on-one with 'keeper Mark Paston but, under heavy pressure from the chasing Manny Muscat, poked his shot wide.

The Phoenix responded with two half-chances, with Stein Huysegems and Brockie both turning crosses past the post.

Brockie finally broke the deadlock in the 41st minute as he grabbed his 11th goal of the season.

After an elusive run by recruit Isaka Cernak, the ball went wide to Paul Ifill, whose cross was headed home at the far post by a diving Brockie.

The contest began to open up in the second half and Adrian Zahra came close to equalising for Perth, firing his shot straight at Paston.

The Glory picked up the pace in the last quarter and substitute Ryo Nagai headed wide in the 79th minute.

Phoenix defender Ben Sigmund then pulled off a well-timed challenge to deny Harold a close-range shot at goal.

The home side did almost double their lead late on, with Ifill curling an effort just wide, but then had to overcome some further Perth pressure.

The match produced one setback for the Phoenix, with Sigmund picking up another yellow card for a rash challenge on Harold, making him unavailable for the away match against leaders Central Coast on Thursday.

---

Re-live the match with highlights of all the best action in our A-League Match Centre.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Ponting goes cheaply for Mowbray

Ponting ... was bowled cheaply in a rare appearance for Mowbray. Source: AAP

Ricky Ponting has been bowled for just 11 in a rare appearance for his Tasmanian club side Mowbray.

The retired former Australian captain was playing his first club game since 2005 at the Eagles' home ground, Invermay Park in Launceston.

Batting at No.4, Ponting shouldered arms to a ball from Launceston medium pacer Rowan Smith that officials said cut back "two foot" in Mowbray's first innings total of 122 in the two-day game.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The 38-year-old told reporters he was keen to help the club, which entered the weekend round in second spot on the Northern Tasmanian Cricket Association ladder, win a premiership.

"It was exactly the same with Tasmania last year. We made both finals (Sheffield Shield and one-day) ... and didn't win either and it would be nice to win some silverware or some trophies outside of the Australian team," he said.

"There's a chance for the Shield team to be able to do it again this year and, who knows, with Mowbray going well hopefully we get into another final as well."

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Ponting ordered a new Eagles helmet and uniform for the match but will miss day two to train with Tasmania, who take on NSW in a Shield game from Wednesday.

He said he planned to be back to play more games for the working-class club where he made his first-grade debut as a 12-year-old.

"If I continue to play next year, then I'm sure some opportunities will come up," he said.

"If they don't, as a player, then I'd like to come back and just be around and eat a hamburger on the sidelines.

" ... This is what cricket's all about for me and it always has been."

---

Join us @FoxCricketLive from 3pm (EDT) on Monday for a live Twitter chat as we debate who'll take home all the gongs at the Allan Border Medal, and then stick with foxsports.com.au as we bring you a live blog of the ceremony itself from 8.30pm (EDT).

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Six Nations team-by-team preview

Six Nations key men ... Frederic Michalak, Brian O'Driscoll and Owen Farrell. Source: AP

With a Lions tour on the horizon, this year's Six Nations will provide the perfect chance to see what the Wallabies will come up against in June. Read our team-by-team preview of each team, including betting odds, predictions and key men.

ENGLAND

It is 12 months since the bright new dawn for English rugby and although the signs since have been encouraging, the pressure is now on to deliver.

The victory over New Zealand in the Spring has ramped up the expectations on England to deliver - however there is an air of self-belief among the squad.

Under Stuart Lancaster a confidence has been instilled into the players that they can beat anyone. In last season's Six Nations England won away in Scotland, Italy and France - when few gave them much of a chance - and thumped Ireland at home.

Coach: Stuart Lancaster
Captain: Chris Robshaw
Key man: Owen Farrell
Last season: 2nd
Odds: $2.75 (courtesy of sportsbet.com.au and correct at 1/2/2013)

Prediction: 1st - Buoyed by a win over New Zealand, there is an air of confidence in the England squad. They have come on leaps and bounds under Stuart Lancaster. Three home games will favour them - although trips to Dublin and Cardiff will seriously test their ambitions.

French threat ... team captain Pascal Pape. Source: AP

FRANCE

Having enjoyed a rare clean sweep in their Spring Tests - including wins over Australia and Argentina - France will head to the Six Nations in confident mood.

Philippe Saint-Andre has built on the squad that reached the World Cup final in 2011 but established a harmony that was lacking under former coach Marc Lievremont.

The Pumas were thumped in the second Test, while the Wallabies were ruthlessly demolished and Argentina and then Samoa were brushed aside with ease.

The French pack will once again be a force to be reckoned with - particularly up front - while in Mathieu Bastareaud and Wesley Fofana they have two fearsome runners in the backs. Also the form of Frederic Michalak adds an extra dimension to their play.

Coach: Philippe Saint Andre
Captain: Pascal Pape
Key man: Frederic Michalak
Last season: 4th
Odds: $3.00 (courtesy of sportsbet.com.au and correct at 1/2/2013)

Prediction: 2nd - They are on a four-match winning run and look in a strong position to contest for the title. The fixtures could count against them, though, and their clash at Twickenham against England will be pivotal to their hopes.

Tough as nails ... Ireland captain Jamie Heaslip. Source: AP

IRELAND

It was very much a case of ifs, buts and maybes for the Irish team in last season's Six Nations.
Declan Kidney's side will look back on the Wales game where a crucial decision went against them, while the postponement of the France match left them with a physically demanding schedule.

Injuries to Paul O'Connell, Stephen Ferris, Tommy Bowe and Brian O'Driscoll have meant that Michael Bent, Iain Henderson and Craig Gilroy have gained international experience - while Donnacha Ryan has really impressed.

O'Driscoll will make a welcome return for the Six Nations although the Leinster centre has dropped a strong hint that 2013 could be his tournament swansong.

"There's a strong possibility it could be my last Six Nations, but I haven't really allowed myself to start thinking about finishing," O"Driscoll said.

"If you start thinking about it too early, you've one foot into retirement already. I'm contracted until the summer and I'll see how my body feels."

A repeat of last year's opener against Wales will give the side the chance to set the record straight, while they will be targeting wins from their trips to Italy and Scotland. The crunch games could come at home against England and France.

Coach: Declan Kidney
Captain: Jamie Heaslip
Key man: Brian O'Driscoll
Last season: 3rd
Odds: $4.50 (courtesy of sportsbet.com.au and correct at 1/2/2013)

Prediction: 3rd - The victory over Argentina will have breathed new life into Irish hopes after a disappointing championship last year and a tough tour to New Zealand. While injuries might have hampered their hopes, it has given a number of players the chance to emerge through the ranks. They face a difficult opener in Wales and how they perform there could be key to their chances.

Sergio Parisse ... will lead outsiders Italy. Source: AP

ITALY

The 2013 Six Nations could well be the chance for Italy to throw down a marker for the future. Coach Jacques Brunel has been helped by the fact the players are being exposed to a higher level of rugby via the inclusion of Treviso and Zebre in the Heineken Cup and the RaboDirect PRO12.

And having avoided the wooden spoon with victory over Scotland in last season's championship, Brunel is keen to kick on.

And with three home games in this season's championship - against France, Wales and Ireland - Italy will be targeting another run of wins. Sergio Parisse remains their talisman - as part of a talented back-row of Robert Barbieri and Alessandro Zanni - while Luciano Orquera and Tommaso Benvenuti have impressed under Brunel's attacking regime.

Coach: Jacques Brunel
Captain: Sergio Parisse
Key man: Sergio Parisse
Last season: 5th
Odds: $101 (courtesy of sportsbet.com.au and correct at 1/2/2013)

Prediction: 5th - Have the potential to be the dark horses of the championship. They have an established squad and game plan under Jacques Brunel and were on the verge of beating Australia in the Spring internationals. France, Wales and Ireland will not fancy traveling to Stadio Olimpico.

Scotland's Tim Visser ... crucial to his side. Source: AAP

SCOTLAND

Scotland fans can rightly feel bemused by their country's form over the past 12 months. They entered the Six Nations last season with high hopes of success, however they suffered a spectacular slump in form as they ended up with the wooden spoon after losing to Italy.

It is now up to interim coach Scott Johnson to turn things around, with the Australian quickly freshening things with 10 new faces in his first squad as well as the recall of some experienced performers.

Tim Visser has made an immediate impression on the international stage - including two tries against the All Blacks - while a lot is expected from New Zealand-born Sean Maitland.

Interim coach: Scott Johnson
Captain: Kelly Brown
Key man: Tim Visser
Last season: 6th
Odds: $26 (courtesy of sportsbet.com.au and correct at 1/2/2013)

Prediction: 6th - It is all change among the Scotland squad following Andy Robinson's exit as coach, with Scott Johnson and Dean Ryan facing an uphill task of rebuilding the side's confidence. Wooden spooners last season and beaten by Tonga in the autumn means there is plenty of work to do. A host of new players - predominately from Glasgow - will also come into the squad and with limited time to prepare it could be a tough challenge for the Scots.

James Hook ... Wales' key man. Source: AP

WALES

The defending Grand Slam champions have it all to do this time around if they are to defend their crown.
Since their clean sweep at last season's championship, it has all been downhill for the Welsh, with losses to New Zealand, Argentina and Australia and Samoa.

The absence of Warren Gatland - who masterminded their fourth-placed finish at the World Cup as well as their Grand Slam triumph - has been a cruel blow, with the New Zealander having been first sidelined by a freak injury and then unavailable due to his secondment to the British and Irish Lions.

Injuries have hit the Welsh hard, with Alun-Wyn Jones, Luke Charteris, Bradley Davies, Rhys Priestland and Aaron Jarvis among those unavailable. However they have some exciting players handed a chance with Andries Pretorius, Josh Navidi and Eli Walker looking to play their part.

The battle for the No 10 shirt could be key, with James Hook and Dan Biggar vying to replace the sidelined Rhys Priestland.

Interim coach: Rob Howley
Captain: Sam Warburton
Key man: Dan Biggar/James Hook
Last season: Champions
Odds: $5.50

Prediction: 4th - Wales have struggled in the aftermath of their Grand Slam triumph last year and a run of seven straight Test defeats will have left confidence at an all-time low. Injuries to key positions will not help their cause, nor will the absence of head coach Warren Gatland - who is on secondment with the British and Irish Lions. They face three tough away games, while England and Ireland will arrive in Cardiff gunning for revenge.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Starc stars as Windies cop hiding

Destructive ... Australia's Mitchell Starc (L) celebrates one of his five wickets at the WACA. Source: AFP

Mitchell Starc wreaked havoc with the ball before Glenn Maxwell unleashed with the bat as Australia crushed the West Indies by nine wickets with 40.4 overs to spare in Friday's one-day clash at the WACA Ground.

1st ODI - WACA Ground

1 February 2013 - Day 1, Session 1

Australia 1st Innings

G. Maxwell	51	35	9	2	145.71
U. Khawaja	8	15	1	0	53.33
J. Holder	4.2	0	18	1	4.15

Starc snared 5-20 to help skittle the West Indies for 70 off 23.5 overs, before Maxwell cracked an unbeaten 51 off 35 balls to guide Australia to 1-71 in 9.2 overs.

Such was the disparity of class between the two sides, Australia had already scored more than a quarter of the victory target after just five balls following Maxwell's early onslaught, in which he cracked Kemar Roach for three fours and a six.

Fellow opener Aaron Finch made just 10 before he was caught behind, but it mattered little as Australia cruised to victory with the greatest of ease in front of 9024 fans.

Game two of the five-match series will be played at the WACA on Sunday.

At 5-19, the West Indies were in danger of failing to pass the record ODI low of 35 that Zimbabwe posted against Sri Lanka in 2004.

Darren Bravo (11) and skipper Darren Sammy (16) ensured the West Indies avoided that embarrassment.

But the total was still the lowest ODI score at the WACA, failing to surpass the previous worst score of 91 set by Australia against the West Indies in 1987.

It was also the West Indies' third lowest ODI total at any ground, only bettering the 54 they scored against South Africa in Cape Town in 2004 and 61 against Bangladesh in Chittagong in 2011.

Clint McKay (3-10) snared the early wicket of Chris Gayle for four to set the tone but, from that point on, it was the Starc show, with Kieran Powell (11), Ramnaresh Sarwan (0), Dwayne Bravo (0) and Kieron Pollard (0) all falling victim to the left-hander.

Such was Starc's dominance, Pollard was basically dismissed twice in two balls by the paceman.

On his first ball, Pollard was given not out after a confident lbw shout from Starc.

Australia opted to refer the appeal to the Decision Review System, which predicted the ball would have clipped leg stump.

However, given less than half the ball was hitting the stump, the umpire's original verdict of not out was upheld.

It mattered little though, with Pollard inside edging the next delivery onto his stumps to leave the West Indies in ruins at 5-19.

Faulkner joined in on the fun when he caught the edge of Devon Thomas (3), but Bravo and Sammy made it to double figures to make sure the West Indies passed their record-low ODI total of 54.

But there was no escaping the heroics of Starc, who finished the innings by sending Jason Holder's leg stump flying out of the ground.

When Australia got their turn to bat, Maxwell treated it like a Twenty20 hit-out, putting Roach to the sword to notch his half-century in just 33 balls, with the knock including nine fours and two sixes.

The match, which was scheduled to finish at 7.05pm local time, was all over by 2.16pm. 

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Racism rant nets six-month ban

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Out ... Aussie runner John Steffensen has been hit with a six-month ban. Source: Dave Hunt / AAP

Outspoken Australian sprinter John Steffensen has been banned from competing for six months following his Olympic Games racism allegations.

The board of Athletics Australia ended an investigation it began in December by ruling the 400m runner out of international and domestic competition for "making statements and engaging in conduct likely to bring the sport of athletics into disrepute contrary to IAAF Rules, Athletics Australia By-laws and the Athletics Australia Team Member Code of Conduct".

Steffensen will be allowed to return to competition on August 1, meaning he will miss the national championships and other build up and selection events for the  world championships starting August 10 in Moscow.

When national champion Steven Solomon was selected ahead of Steffensen for the one place Australia was allocated in the 400m for the London Olympics, Steffensen claimed he had been "racially vilified by this federation, been discriminated against on many teams ... it'd help if I was a different colour".

He then used Twitter to claim that AA chief executive Dallas O'Brien was a liar, and threatened to withdraw from the 4x400m relay team in protest.

Following the Olympics, AA appointed lawyer Paul Horvath to investigate Steffensen's claims. He found no evidence to the claims and the matter was referred to an independent tribunal.

Athletics Australia said in a statement Thursday that Steffensen "subsequently chose to waive his right to an independent tribunal hearing and therefore, in accordance with Athletics Australia By-Laws and the IAAF Rules, he was deemed to have accepted that he had committed the breaches. The imposition of a penalty then reverted back to the Athletics Australia Board of Directors."

Steffensen requested an opportunity to air his concerns ahead of sanctioning and AA said it conducted an hour-long discussion with him via video link on Wednesday.

"The Board took into account Steffensen's statements and also his previous three-month suspension in 2010 before determining unanimously that a six-month suspension was appropriate considering the seriousness of the breaches," the statement read.

AA board member David Grace said Steffensen - who addressed the board meeting via video link for a hour on Wednesday - planned to resume his running career once the suspension ended.

"As far as we're aware he was intending to run this year,'' said Grace.

"He's never said anything to the contrary.

"He gave every indication that he wanted to continue to involve himself in the sport at a very high level.''

The ban does not apply to coaching, which allows Steffensen to continue his mentoring role with Commonwealth 4x400m relay gold medallist Kevin Moore.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Barnes not saying sayonara: Cheika

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Staying put ... Cheika believes Barnes will stay at the Waratahs. Source: Brett Costello / News Limited

Waratahs coach Michael Cheika played down reports that playmaker Berrick Barnes was leaving the side for Japan's Panasonic Wild Knights.

Barnes, 26, was linked to the Wild Knights by Australia's Fairfax Media, who said he was due to replace former All Black Mike Delany at the end of this year's Super 15 season.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

But Cheika poured cold water on the story, saying he had received no indication that Barnes, a key player for both the Waratahs and the Wallabies, would sign with the Japanese top league.

Barnes' contract with the Australian Rugby Union expires at the end of 2013.

"No one says sayonara until they've left,'' Cheika told reporters.

---

Catch all your Super Rugby news at Fox Sports

---

"My job is to make sure that this place is such a good place to be at that guys don't want to leave.''

Barnes is one of several Waratahs players reported to be looking at offshore options after a disappointing last season in which NSW won just four matches.

"I've spoken to the team about it and said 'Listen. What everyone does (contract wise) is up to everyone','' Cheika said.

"What we're about as a team is creating a great environment this year so that we leave something for next year's team.''

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Rumour Mill: clock is ticking issue

Last-minute shopping ... Victor Wanyama, Peter Crouch and David Villa Source: AAP

It's almost over. The January transfer window may be closing fast but there are still some intriguing big-name signings out there. Who will stay and who will go?

Harry Redknapp wants - and will likely get - more players

Results may have improved for QPR but their tenure in the Barclays Premier League is still looking perilous at best. And manager Harry Redknapp wants action on the transfer front - plenty of it to be precise. With his side four points adrift of safety, Redknapp says the next two days or so until the transfer deadline will be busy at Loftus Road. "It's not what I want. I wish we had a squad which didn't need strengthening and we could all go out for dinner somewhere instead of messing around like idiots on the phone all night." Among those who could be arriving is an old Redknapp favourite - Peter Crouch. Another potential signing is the intriguingly-named Rolando - a defender from the Portuguese league. Christopher Samba, who now plays for Anzhi Makhachkala is Russia, is also another target.

Crafty Wenger plays cards close to chest

We know for a fact that the two Davids - Beckham and Villa  - won't be coming, but Arsene Wenger is still determined to add to his squad over the next few days. Top of the shopping list is exciting young AZ Alkmaar midfielder Adam Maher - yes, he is Dutch. The 19-year-old has even been urged to join the Gunners by his manager. Another Dutch target is defender Tobias Alderweireld, who is also drawing interest from Tottenham Hotspur.

Has Fergie finished his shopping? Not likely!

Wasn't it only a few weeks ago that Sir Alex Ferguson said Manchester United were not January transfer players? Well, not only have they now added the most desired talent on the market in Wilfried Zaha but they are also closing in on another star recruit. Celtic's Victor Wanyama has built quite a reputation in Scotland and his likely addition would undoubtedly bring some steel and bite to the Red Devils midfield. As if they really needed it!

Poor old Roberto Mancini bemoans his lot

Manchester City's Italian manager said it was unlikely they would replace Mario Balotelli for the final few months of the season, but could a last-minute change of heart be at hand? Arsenal may not be getting David Villa but City, according to The Daily Mirror, just might. The limp performance in front of goal against QPR on Wednesday morning (EDT) has City reportedly worried enough to propose a big bid for the Barcelona striker. One probable addition over the next day or so is young Brazilian defender Marquinhos from AS Roma.

		P	W	D	L	GD	Pts
1	Man United	23	18	2	3	27	56
2	Man City	24	15	7	2	26	52
3	Chelsea	23	13	6	4	25	45
4	Tottenham	23	12	5	6	12	41
5	Everton	23	9	11	3	9	38
6	Arsenal	23	10	7	6	19	37
7	Liverpool	23	9	7	7	12	34
8	Swansea	24	8	10	6	7	34
9	West Brom	23	10	4	9	1	34
10	Stoke	24	6	12	6	-5	30
11	Sunderland	24	7	8	9	-4	29
12	West Ham	23	7	6	10	-7	27
13	Norwich	23	6	8	9	-15	26
14	Fulham	23	6	7	10	-7	25
15	Newcastle	24	6	6	12	-12	24
16	Southampton	23	5	8	10	-10	23
17	Wigan	24	5	5	14	-18	20
18	Aston Villa	24	4	8	12	-26	20
19	Reading	23	4	7	12	-15	19
20	QPR	24	2	10	12	-19	16

Rafa Benitez unlikely to stay, who is next in line at Chelsea?

It's the rumour Everton fans just don't want to hear. No, it's not the potential departure of star midfielder Marouane Fellaini but rather the increased interest in the services of manager David Moyes. Chelsea intend to be fairly quiet over the next few days but that will reportedly all change at the end of the season. With Benitez unlikely to get the Blues gig fulltime, Moyes is considered to be in pole position. Meanwhile, Chelsea are looking strongly at their goalkeeping situation beyond Petr Cech. With Ross Turnbull hardly instilling confidence, a move for Birmingham City starlet Jack Butland is on the cards.

Striker shortage sends Spurs to market

With the fitness of spearhead Jermain Defoe under question, Spurs are reportedly eyeing a last-minute move for Brazilian striker Leandro Damiao. Goals have dried up in recent times for the once-free-scoring Spurs and with Defoe's health now a major concern and Emmanuel Adebayor on African Cup of Nations duty, Andre Villas-Boas is prepared to outlay as much as £20 million ($A30m) to get his man. Damiao has 14 caps and was the top-scorer at the London Olympics.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Loophole 'will be closed': Demetriou

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Loophole ... players are avoiding drug testing by self-reporting. Source:AAP

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou has warned players the loophole allowing them to self-report to avoid a strike under its drug policy will be closed.

The Herald Sun today reported that clubs believe some players have activated the self-reporting loophole when alerted to the presence of a tester.

The Illicit Drugs Policy states: "A player may refer himself to the AFL Medical Officer for testing, education, counselling or treatment at any time. A player shall not be deemed to have recorded a positive test if he refers himself for such treatment prior to submitting a sample that subsequently returns a positive result."

A number of high-ranking club officials yesterday said they had been told players who become aware of a possible imminent test could immediately call AFL medicos to confess recent drug use.

Demetriou said on 3AW this morning he was unaware of how many players had self-reported.

"It is not being abused to the extent that has been reported," he said.

"It is a system that has benefit.

"There is probably a loophole there that I'm sure will be discussed today and closed.

"It is a very useful part of the policy and if it is being abused, we have to correct that."

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Demetriou baulked at the suggestion that abuse of the self-report system was widespread.

"Not to my knowledge based on the briefings I have had from our medical officers," he said.

"If there is any player out there who believes they can exploit the the self-help notification, they won't be able to.

"If our medical officers believe a player is rorting the system, I don't believe they will allow it."

The AFL supremo admitted he agreed with Collingwood president Eddie McGuire when he says some players hold the drugs code in contempt.

"There are some players who think they are above the rules and regulations of the code," he said.

"If they do that, they do it at their peril.

"There is no place for them in the game."

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The AFLPA said under the letter of the law players should not be able to self-report if the aim is to avoid an imminent positive test.

The player union said if drug testers were aware of that motive, a test would be conducted and a strike recorded if a positive result was found.

One club is believed to have had 10 incidences of six players self-reporting in 2012, with one putting his hand up three times in that period.

Critics argue those figures show players are taking advantage of the three-strikes system.

Sources say players especially those fearing they have drugs in their system are increasingly aware of the presence of drug testers which can lead to self-reporting.

Former West Coast and Richmond star Ben Cousins is known to have dodged drug tests after being alerted to the presence of testers by players already at the club.

Players who self-report are target-tested in future months, but for a player on two strikes future testing is clearly a risk worth taking.

AFLPA chief executive Matt Finnis said the policy had only recently been abused by players.

"In that very example, the player would have to do that drug test and he would be bound by any result that came from that but the policy has contained a provision which is there for a player who has used drugs, has an issue with drugs, to be able to put his hand up and seek help," he told SEN.

"That's because the nature of the policy is helping people to make change when they have made a mistake. If a player notifies, he then is able to get that assistance, be diverted into relevant programs and had he returned a subsequent policy he wouldn't be burdened with that on the basis that he's put his hand up to seek help." 

One official said the policy was routinely abused.

"It can be an excuse as lame as 'my drink was spiked last night and I may have inadvertently taken drugs'," one club executive said.

"It means a player holds a Joker if he is on two strikes, a get-out-of-jail free card."

"Most players have reached a stage where they don't particularly care about one strike with some even prepared to roll the dice when on two strikes."

Confessed drug addict Cousins said he was often tipped off by teammates about the appearance of drug testers and simply failed to attend training to avoid positive tests.

The controversial three strikes policy will also be on the agenda at today's drug summit.

But Demetriou this morning reiterated his support for the policy.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Stoke eye Socceroo Jedinak

Move ... Socceroos Mile Jedinak is attracting attention from EPL clubs. Source: Glyn Kirk / AFP

Socceroos midfielder Mile Jedinak could become the latest Australian to play in the Barclays Premier League with reports linking him to Stoke City.

England's Mirror Online reports Stoke boss Tony Pulis is making a surprise STG2.5 million ($A3.79 million) offer to sign the tough midfielder from nPower Championship side Crystal Palace.

The former Central Coast Mariners midfielder impressed in two recent FA Cup ties against the Potters and Pulis is keen to do a deal before the transfer window shuts at the end of the month.

Jedinak, 28, has been hugely impressive this season as captain of Palace, who are fifth in the Championship and in contention for promotion.

He's played in 27 of his side's 28 league games, scoring twice, and has 18 months left on his contract.

Bolton are also reportedly interested in signing Jedinak, who has 37 caps for Australia and has been a mainstay of the team in recent years.

A move would see him join fellow Socceroos Brett Holman, Mark Schwarzer, Adam Federici and Brad Jones in the Premier League.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Blues issue Robinson with reprimand

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Body on the line ... Mitch Robinson being investigated. Source: Michael Klein / Herald Sun

Carlton will force Mitch Robinson to perform community work following an ugly incident at Big Day Out over the weekend.

Video footage taken by a bystander shows Robinson land a left-hand blow to the other man before he is struck hard to the side of the head as he appears to bend over to pick up an item on the ground.

They then wrestle each other to the ground as others come in to remonstrate and also separate them, including a woman.

Carlton football operations boss Andrew McKay said Robinson should not have put himself in a position to be involved in such an incident.

"This type of behaviour, no matter what the circumstance, is not acceptable or in line with club policy," McKay said.

"Mitch is extremely remorseful and has accepted the club's sanction."

Robinson will complete two months of community service with the Salvation Army, working with the homeless and under-privileged in Melbourne's CBD.

He will also make a $1000 donation to the Salvation Army.

Robinson left the Australia Day music festival off his own accord after the fracas, which ignited when the Blues midfielder tried to prevent his friend's "anti-social behaviour".

Both men have torn singlets when the footage begins, indicating the vision starts well after the fight began, but gets out of control after Robinson is struck while he is not paying attention.

The cowardly blow ignites the fight as a jeer can be heard from the crowd as two other men jump in to the fray as Robinson tries to escape a headlock.

One onlooker can be heard shouting ''That'll be six weeks Robinson'' after he throws the left hook.

Although witnesses do not know why the fight erupted, they say up to eight men were involved in the melee before it was brought to an end.

One witness said Robinson was ''fuming'' after being ''targeted'' by a group looking for trouble.

''He was fuming, very angry, and was not going to walk away,'' the man said.

''It took his mates to get him to stop.''

But other witnesses were not positive Robinson and the other men were strangers.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Unknown Rebel wears 10 before JOC

Pushed out ... James O'Connor will start at fullback as an unknown youngster wears No.10. Source: AAP

James O'Connor or Kurtley Beale at No.10? That's the big dilemma facing Melbourne Rebels coach Damien Hill at the start of 2013.

But it's unheralded youngster Angus Roberts who's set to get first chance to call the playmaking shots in their opening Super Rugby trial against the NSW Waratahs on Saturday night.

Sydney University five-eighth Roberts will share time at both first-receiver and fullback with O'Connor who is likely to start his long-awaited comeback at No.15 in the Hobart pre-season clash.

The 22-year-old has impressed throughout the pre-season and is viewed as a diamond in the rough by Melbourne officials who like the look of the youngster as a future playmaker.

''For a young guy who hasn't played that much (professional) rugby he's done exceptionally well this pre-season,'' Hill told AAP.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

''He will get time at 10 and 15 and James will get time at 10 and 15.''

If O'Connor makes his long-awaited comeback from recurring hamstring troubles at fullback it could well be opposite code-jumper Israel Folau, set to make his senior rugby debut for the Waratahs.

An O'Connor v Folau fullback battle in the AFL state of Tasmania would have been inconceivable just four months ago but it appears well on the cards.

O'Connor loomed as long-term five-eighth once mercurial Englishman Danny Cipriani left the Rebels last season but it was Beale who made the biggest impact as No.10, then going on to impress as Wallabies playmaker in their last six Tests of 2012.

While the pair are the most influential players in the fledgling Melbourne club's bid to break into the finals for the first time, neither are expected to be included in the Rebels leadership group to be announced in the coming days.

Beale could be rested for the opening trial due to his heavy schedule last year but Hill said he's returned to the Rebels in good shape - far better than 12 months ago when he admitted to starting the season unfit.

''He's in great nick,'' he said. ''We still have to get some kilometres into his legs but in terms of his attitude and overall physical condition he's come back exceptionally well.''

Hill will rest Wallabies back-rower and big-name Queensland recruit Scott Higginbotham while former Brumbies and Reds three-quarter Kimami Sitauti (broken leg) is the only other Rebel ruled out.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Jesse's $6.7 million pay day

Money list ... Jesse Williams is being touted as top draft pick in this year's NFL draft. Source: AAP

NFL prospect Jesse Williams is set to catapult into the top 40 highest earners in Australian sport when he seals a move to professional ranks at April's draft.

A Sports Illustrated mock draft released this week has Williams going at pick 32 - the selection that will be held by the winner of next Monday's Super Bowl between San Francisco and Baltimore.

The 32nd pick in last year's NFL draft, running back David Wilson, signed a four-year $6.7 million contract with the New York Giants.

That would place Williams in 36th position on last year's BRW rich list, between Saverio Rocca ($1.8 million) and Israel Folau ($1.5 million).

ProKick Australia founder Nathan Chapman said Williams's elevation from relatively unknown college player to fully fledged pro would open the eyes of the Australian public.

"This will help the process of getting Australians talking about the sport and probably pave the way for more guys to head over," Chapman said.

"Australia has a lot of athletes who could do it ... but they all end up playing rugby," he said.

"Jesse fell in love with the game at a young age and made a decision to go to America and work hard for what he wanted."

Williams, a 193cm, 145kg beast who plays nose tackle, was born on Thursday Island but grew up in Brisbane.

Williams has spent the past two seasons at US college football powerhouse Alabama, winning back-to-back national championships.

"He's been involved in a program at Alabama for the past two years which is basically like the NFL itself," Chapman said.

"The professionalism, the training, the crowds, the expectations - they're all at a similar level.

"Dominating against college kids and dominating in the pros are two different things, but from all reports it's that kind of challenge that Jesse really thrives on."

Williams is in Australia preparing for the NFL draft combine and last week visited Brisbane Broncos.

He bench-pressed 270kg, easily dwarfing the best Broncos effort of 195kg, but it's not his strength that most impresses NFL scouts.

"He's a freak. He's so big but he's so fast," Chapman said. "His feet are fast and he's got agility."

Williams will be just the second Australian drafted into the NFL, following in the footsteps of rugby convert Colin Scotts, who was selected in the third round of the 1987 draft.

Chapman is also hopeful of another product of his program, University of Hawaii punter Alex Dunnachie, being picked up in the later rounds.

Dunnachie this season played alongside former Brisbane Lions and Port Adelaide footballer Scott Harding, who has two years of eligibility remaining before he will head to the pros.

"Hawaii had a tough season," Chapman said.

"They really struggled on offence so it was hard for Scott to rack up huge numbers.

"But Scott's a pro. When they threw the ball to him, he caught it. And he returned punts well."

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Rain washes out Gabba one-dayer

QUEENSLAND'S must-win one-day clash with Tasmania at the Gabba on Sunday has been washed out without a ball being bowled.

Queensland picked up two points along with the Tigers.

The third-placed Bulls (15pts) had been desperate to chip away at leaders Victoria (19pts) and No.2 outfit South Australia (18pts) with a win over Ricky Ponting's Tigers (11pts).

The stage had been set for Queensland to pick up from their three straight one-day wins before the Big Bash League break, with Bulls captain James Hopes returning from a hamstring complaint.

However, officials called off the game with up to 300mm expected to inundate south-east Queensland as ex-tropical cyclone Oswald moves down the coast on Sunday.

Queensland hope to next host Western Australia at the Gabba on February 2 - weather permitting - before playing the final qualifying one-dayer against Victoria at the MCG a fortnight later.

Queensland squad: Joe Burns, Luke Feldman, Peter Forrest, Cameron Gannon, Chris Hartley, Nathan Hauritz, James Hopes (capt), Usman Khawaja, Chris Lynn, Alister McDermott, Luke Pomersbach, Nathan Reardon.

Tasmanian squad: Jackson Bird, Aiden Blizzard, Ed Cowan, Alex Doolan, Ben Dunk, Andrew Fekete, Evan Gulbis, Matt Johnston, Jason Krejza, Tim Paine (capt), Ricky Ponting, Jonathan Wells.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More