Tigers win thriller after the siren

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Nemesis ... Jack Riewoldt once again proved a thorn in Hawthorn's side. Source: Michael Klein / News Limited

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, but a serious knee injury to young Hawk Matt Suckling soured the thrilling affair.

0.4.1 (25)	Q1	0.4.1 (25)
0.5.3 (33)	Q2	0.8.4 (52)
0.9.5 (59)	Q3	0.9.7 (61)
0.13.6 (84)	Q4	0.13.7 (85)

Jarryd Roughead 5	Chris Newman 3
Shaun Burgoyne 2	Jack Riewoldt 3
Matthew Spangher 2	Brett Deledio 2
Jed Anderson 1	Jake King 2
Sam Grimley 1	Shaun Grigg 1
Shane Savage 1	Bachar Houli 1
Derick Wanganeen 1	Tyrone Vickery 1

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.

Hawthorn's loss was soured even more by the news that Suckling has a suspected anterior cruciate ligament tear which would require a full knee reconstruction.

Suckling hobbled off early in the third quarter after his right leg collapsed underneath him. Although the defender will undergo scans on Monday, coach Alastair Clarkson fears it could be an ACL, admitting "it doesn't look good."

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 fans 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.

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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-quarter time.

Clarkson said the Hawks' preparation after making it to the last week of the 2012 season was on track.

"We're not playing catch-up," he said.

"We just know that our preparation hasn't been as fast-tracked as some of the other sides.

"They've got probably three or four weeks on us. Our preparation's just a little bit different than a lot of the other sides. We're reasonably pleased where we are physically."

Pleased too are the Tigers after a 3-1 campaign but coach Damien Hardwick said his side should have beaten a Hawks outfit missing the likes of Lance Franklin, Cyril Rioli and Luke Hodge by more.

"Hawthorn had a truckload of players out so there's no delusions," Hardwick said.

"We should have won the game with the talent of the squad we had in and we just got over the line.

"So from our point of view it wasn't good enough."

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Saints stars return in win over Dees

Return ... Nick Riewoldt played his first game of 2013 for St Kilda. Source: Wayne Ludbey / News Limited

The stars returned to the St Kilda line-up and helped lead the Saints to a 25-point victory over Melbourne in their NAB cup match at Casey Fields.

The Saints won the match 2.10.13.(91) to Melbourne's 2.7.6.(66).

1.2.2 (23)	Q1	0.1.2 (8)
1.3.4 (31)	Q2	2.6.8 (62)
2.5.6 (54)	Q3	2.8.8 (74)
2.7.6 (66)	Q4	2.10.13 (91)

James Sellar 2	Terry Milera 2
Shannon Byrnes 1	Stephen Milne 2
Lynden Dunn 1	Trent Dennis-Lane 1
Jesse Hogan 1	Sam Gilbert 1
Nathan Jones 1	Lenny Hayes 1
David Rodan 1	Justin Koschitzke 1
Luke Tapscott 1	Jack Newnes 1
Jimmy Toumpas 1	Nick Riewoldt 1
	Nick Dal Santo 1

Victory was set-up by a dominant second quarter performance, when veteran goalsneak Stephen Milne kicked three goals to help turn around his team's fortunes.

Both teams had chosen to rest players in the hot conditions, but captain Nick Riewoldt and star midfielder Lenny Hayes both played their first pre-season match this year for the Saints.

It was the Demons who started better in the tough conditions.

Ruckman Mark Jamar grabbed control of the ruck early and was able to give his midfield first use of the ball.

Recruits Shannon Byrnes and Cameron Pedersen were productive early and the Demons quickly shot out to a 22 point lead.

St Kilda by contrast looked rusty in the first quater.

They turned the ball over in the backline and their kicking out of defence was poor early in the game. Melbourne had the benefit of a hot wind behind their backs in the first term, and Lynden Dunn used it to good effect to kick a supergoal after a strong mark.

Trailing by 15 points after the first quarter, some of the Saints more experienced players stood up in the second.
As well as Milne, the likes of Hayes and Leigh Montagna became influential in the game.

The Saints kicked two supergoals through Jack Newnes and former Swan Dennis Trent-Lane to give them a 31 point lead at the main break.

The predicted stifling conditions forced the AFL to relax the rules around the interchange bench with teams allowed unlimited interchange rotations and six players to come off the bench.

The game slowed down after half time and scoring became more difficult in the hot conditions.

Melbourne controlled much of the play in the second half but the Saints were able to counter any attack.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

FOX FOOTY SuperCoach preview: Power

Young gun ... Can Hamish Hartlett elevate his game to the next level in 2013? Source: Ben McMahon / AAP

Planning to avoid Port Adelaide players in FOX FOOTY SuperCoach? Then you'll miss out on some of the best bargains on offer this year.

Given Port's recent form it would be very easy when scrolling through potential picks for 2013 to get to Port Adelaide, shrug your shoulders, and say "pass". 

Big mistake.

Port has a new coach in Ken Hinkley and he loves FOX FOOTY SuperCoach (we don't know this for sure, but check out the following info and it's hard to argue).

The Power embarked on the lowest-profile recruiting spree of all time at the end of last season. Hands up if you recognise any of these names that arrived at the club: Campbell Heath (traded from Sydney), Lewis Stevenson (traded from West Coast), Jack Hombsh (traded from GWS), Jake Neade (traded from GWS as a pre-draft selection).

But if there's one way to lift your profile it's to jump on to the radar as a potential FOX FOOTY SuperCoach bargain. And Port has plenty of those, including a few of the above names.

BYE: Round 11 (with Brisbane Lions, Hawthorn, Richmond, Fremantle, Western Bulldogs)

FOX FOOTY SUPERCOACH STAR

Last Saturday's NAB Cup clash against Melbourne demonstrated what Hartlett is capable of: 23 disposals, six marks, two tackles, five inside-50s, two goals and 135 SuperCoach points. The 22-year-old former No.4 draft pick (2008) has all the tools to take the competition by storm - if his body didn't keep breaking down. Hartlett is fit and flying at the moment - last weekend is exhibit A - he has dual-position status this season and we do have six more trades up our sleeves in case of emergency. Picking him is a risk that could pay off big time.

BANK EM

After struggling to break into the Eagles' line-up, Ebert returned home to Adelaide and quickly stamped himself as Port's No.1 midfielder. He averaged exactly 100 points a game last season and rarely dropped below 90. Not many huge scores but if you're after consistency, he's your man.

BUY EM

Kane Mitchell ($126,200 mid)

Won the Sandover Medal as the best player in the WAFL last season with an equal-record 58 votes. Has already shown himself to be a ball magnet in the pre-season although his kicking can let him down. Should be a safe choice to start in your midfield. Warning: he has to be promoted from the rookie list to play in round one. This should be a given, but don't commit until it happens.

Ollie Wines ($169,500 mid)

Teenage wrecking ball who will play most games this year. Loves the hard stuff, which is great news for FOX FOOTY SuperCoach with points on offer for clearances, contested possessions and tackles. His high draft rating (pick seven) attracts a reasonable price for a draftee, but if you fork out the cash you won't be disappointed.

Sam Colquhoun ($109,500 mid/def)

The skilful flanker was tipped to go in the first two rounds of the national draft but somehow slipped through to the pre-season draft, where Port was happy to pounce. Another to impress in the NAB Cup - he had 19 disposals and 99 FOX FOOTY SuperCoach points against Melbourne on Saturday - and the dual-position link is another plus. There isn't much of him though, so be wary of picking him on windy days!

Lewis Stevenson ($115,900 def)

Stevenson played 10 matches for the Eagles in 2010 then dropped off the AFL radar. He continued to perform for Claremont in the WAFL and looks set to slot on to a back flank this season at age 23. He notched 76 FOX FOOTY SuperCoach points on Saturday and you can expect plenty more games like that.

Jake Neade ($115,900 fwd/mid) 

Goalsneak who could be Port's Cyril Rioli. Smart around goal and loves to run down opponents. As a small forward don't expect huge scores, but he looks a good chance to play early. Another dual-position player.

BURY EM

Gray has threated for years to be a gun midfield/forward in the Dale Thomas mould, but his body keeps getting in the way. He was dogged by soft-tissue problems and then last year suffered an injury so gruesome sports website Deadspin ran the headline "Aussie footballer liquifies his knee". Gray might make it back some time this season, but Port won't rush him.

The ruck division isn't Port's greatest strength and Renouf is arguably not its strongest member. He hasn't played at all in the NAB Cup and is fighting Matthew Lobbe and Jarrad Redden for a spot in the team. Even when he plays, he doesn't score well (averaging 62 in 10 matches last year). At least he's got a premiership medallion.

FOX FOOTY SUPERCOACH DRAFT WATCHLIST

Port's most improved player last year lifted his FOX FOOTY SuperCoach average from 61 to 85 and could get better again. You could probably pick him up in the final round.

Sure to get more midfield time after crossing from Essendon. Out with a hammy at the moment but should be right for Round 1. At $356,700 he's worth a punt in FOX FOOTY SuperCoach CLASSIC too.

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Sharks stand down coach Flanagan

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Cronulla Sharks ... coach Shane Flanagan questioned by ASADA. Source: Mark Evans / News Limited

Shane Flanagan has been stood down as coach of the Cronulla Sharks as the drug scandal widens, saying he's "shattered" and believes the players have done nothing wrong.

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The Cronulla board has also sacked football general manager Darren Mooney and head trainer Mark Noakes.

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"I'm shattered," Flanagan said.

"None of us had any knowledge of what was happening."

He added: "I've got to support the players here. I still believe that the players have not done anything wrong. I don't oversee anything. My involvement ... I've got no idea, bar being coach at the time.

"I've worked really hard to get this footy team together and I feel sorry for all the current players as well as the new players who have come to our club.

"Now they've just been ripped apart."

Assistant coach Peter Sharp will take control of the Sharks for Sunday's match against the Gold Coast Titans at Shark Park.

Flanagan was questioned by ASADA officials on Thursday over the Sharks drug scandal.

Investigators met Flanagan at Sharks Park in a development that occurred as the NRL players association finally went public to support the game's stars.

Sharks physiotherapist Konrad Schultz and club doctor David Givney have also reportedly been sacked.

Fox Sports expert Mark Gasnier said he had sympathy for Flanagan.

"At the end of the day we're speculating what his involvement is. If he had involvement and knew players were taking performance-enhancing drugs and turning a blind eye or giving a tick of approval that's a different story.

"I think the ramifications have already been big enough with the impact on the reputation of the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks."

After recruiting impressively during the off-season with the likes of Luke Lewis, Michael Gordon and Beau Ryan joining the club, the Sharks were seen as genuine premiership contenders but their season now lies in tatters.

Flanagan was also played an integral role in bringing troubled star Todd Carney to the club.

Interim coach Sharp, formerly head coach of the Northern Eagles and Manly Sea Eagles, joined the Sharks as an assistant at the end of the 2011 season.

Flanagan was questioned by ASADA officials today over the Sharks drug scandal, the latest development in a saga that has engulfed the sport.

Earlier this week, senior players Paul Gallen, Ben Pomeroy and John Morris confronted ex-Cronulla head conditioner Trent Elkin wanting answers after they had been summoned to an extraordinary meeting where sports lawyer and ex-ASADA senior counsel Richard Redman had advised a group of 14 players to plead guilty and accept six-month suspensions.

Thursday's development that occurred as the NRL players association finally went public to support the game's stars.

The chief executive of the Rugby League Players Association David Garnsey said that anti-doping authorities must take into account the reality of the status of footballers as employees when determining culpability for doping offences.

"Rugby league players ultimately place their trust in those who are in positions of knowledge and authority at their clubs and, as employees, follow the directions of their employers," he said.

The Sharks called a press conference for 6pm on Friday night at the Sharkies Leagues Club.

Present will be Sharks Deputy Chairman Mr Keith Ward, along with Dr Tricia Kavanagh former Justice of the Industrial Court and Deputy Chair of the Australian Sports Drug Agency.

Dr Kavanagh has been assisting the Sharks with an investigation and legal review of club activities during a period in 2011 that is the subject of a current ASADA investigation.

Flanagan started his coaching career as Parramatta SG Ball coach in 1997 and after stints in the Roosters lower grades, he followed Stuart to the Sutherland Shire in 2007.

Flanagan took over from Ricky Stuart in late 2010 season afetr Stuart stood down.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Bellamy backs under-fire Flanagan

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Club in crisis ... Flanagan and the Sharks face an uncertain future. Source:News Limited

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy labelled the situation facing embattled NRL club Cronulla "dire" but he threw his support behind Sharks coach Shane Flanagan.

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There was little noise coming out of the Sharks on Thursday amid reports 14 players could be forced to stand down for six months because links to the use of performance enhancing drugs.

Bookmakers re-opened markets on Cronulla's clash with Gold Coast Titans on Sunday and said there was nothing to suggest the Sharks wouldn't run out as named.

Bellamy and Flanagan remain close after spending time as coach and assistant respectively of the NSW State of Origin side in 2009.

The Storm boss said he hadn't spoken to Flanagan but said if the situation got worse he would have to "grit his teeth'' and get through it.

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Bellamy said Cronulla could have trouble fielding a team if that many players were forced to step away and doubted the NRL would let that happen.

"It's a pretty dire situation. The NRL can't afford for as team to drop out of the competition. Cronulla would struggle if they lost that many players. I'm not quite sure where it is all at. But it's not good,'' Bellamy said.

"Even if (Cronulla got concessions from the NRL to field a team) I don't know where they would find the players. All clubs have their players and aren't going to release too many.

"If that figure 14 is right, it's a lot of players to find.''

Bellamy hadn't contacted Flanagan but said the Sharks coach had his full support.

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"No results have come out yet but it's not looking so good,'' Bellamy said.

"He's got to make sure he grits his teeth and hangs in there and whatever is decided he has to make the best of it.

"I haven't spoken to him ... he'll need a bit of support and I'm only too happy to give it to him."

Bellamy's men trained in the heat ahead of their own season opener against St George Illawarra on Sunday.

Prop Bryan Norrie didn't join in the main group but the Storm camp was confident he will play.

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A-League round 24 ins and outs

Ins and outs ... Sydney FC defender Lucas Neill ruled out of Mariners clash. Source: Joe Castro / AAP

The 2012-2013 A-League season is creeping towards the business end and we have all the squads for the 24th round of action.

Newcastle Jets v Perth Glory, Hunter Stadium, Friday 7.30pm (EDT) FS1HD

Newcastle Jets Squad: 1. Ben Kennedy (gk), 2. Scott Neville, 5. Dominik Ritter, 7. James Brown, 8. Ruben Zadkovich, 10. Bernardo Ribeiro, 11. Connor Chapman, 12. Josh Brillante, 15. Craig Goodwin, 17. James Virgili, 18. Jacob Pepper, 19. Michael Bridges, 20. Mark Birighitti (gk), 21. Marko Jesic, 22. Adam Taggart, 25. Mitch Cooper, 26. Andrew Hoole (Four to be omitted)

Ins: James Brown and James Virgili (returning from illness), Michael Bridges (returning from being rested)

Outs: Zenon Caravella (hamstring), Emile Heskey (calf), Sam Gallaway (knee), Taylor Regan (suspended)

Unavailable: Ben Kantarovski (knee)

Perth Glory Squad:  1.Danny Vukovic (gk), 2.Jack Clisby, 5.Steve Pantelidis,  8.Dean Heffernan, 9.Shane Smeltz, 10.Liam Miller, 12.Ryo Nagai, 13.Travis Dodd, 14.Steven McGarry, 17.Chris Harold, 18.Matias Cordoba, 19.Josh Risdon, 21.Scott Jamison, 23.Michael Thwaite, 30 Lewis Italiano (gk)

Ins: 7. Jacob Burns (returns from injury), 8.Dean Heffernan, 13.Travis Dodd (returns from injury)

Outs: 5.Steve Pantelidis (bruised heel), 15.Brandon O'Neill, 28.Daniel De Silva

Unavailable: 5.Steve Pantelidis (bruised heel)

Referee: Adam Kersey

		P	W	D	L	GD	Pts
1	Western Sydney	23	15	2	6	14	47
2	Central Coast	23	13	6	4	24	45
3	Victory	23	12	3	8	3	39
4	Adelaide	23	11	3	9	1	36
5	Newcastle	24	8	6	10	-11	30
6	Brisbane	23	8	4	11	1	28
7	Heart	23	8	3	12	-2	27
8	Sydney	23	8	3	12	-10	27
9	Perth	23	7	4	12	-3	25
10	Wellington	24	6	6	12	-17	24

Sydney FC v Central Coast Mariners, Allianz Stadium, Saturday 5.30pm (EDT), FS1HD

Sydney FC Squad: 1. Ivan Necevski (gk), 2. Sebastian Ryall, 7. Brett Emerton, 8. Adam Griffiths, 9. Paul Reid, 10. Alessandro Del Piero, 12. Blake Powell, 13. Tiago Calvano, 15. Terry McFlynn, 16. Joel Chianese, 17. Terry Antonis, 20. Vedran Janjetovic (gk), 21. Yairo Yau, 22. Ali Abbas, 23. Rhyan Grant, 26. Peter Triantis, 29. Joel Griffiths (Two to be omitted)

Ins: Yairo Yau (promoted), Blake Powell (promoted), Paul Reid (promoted), Sebastian Ryall (returns from suspension)

Out: Fabio (suspended), Lucas Neill (calf, 1 week)

Unavailable: 3. Fabio (suspended, 1 week), Lucas Neill (calf, 1 week), Pascal Bosschaart (heel, season), Kruno Lovrek (knee, 2 weeks)

Central Coast Mariners Squad: 1. Mathew Ryan (Gk), 2. Daniel Mcbreen, 3. Joshua Rose, 4. Pedj Bojic, 5. Zachary Anderson, 6. Patrick Zwaanswijk, 7. John Hutchinson, 8. Adriano Pellegrino, 9. Bernie Ibini, 11. Oliver Bozanic, 13. Brent Griffiths, 14. Michael Mcglinchey, 15. Brad Mcdonald, 16. Trent Sainsbury, 17. Anthony Caceres, 18. Nick Montgomery, 19. Mitchell Duke, 20. Justin Pasfield, 21. Mile Sterjovski, 29. Nick Fitzgerald (Five to be omitted)

Ins: 8. Adriano Pellegrino, 13. Brent Griffiths, 15. Brad Mcdonald, 17. Anthony Caceres, 21. Mile Sterjovski (all promoted)

Out: Nil

Unavailable: 23. Adam Kwasnik (Knee – Season)

Referee: Jarred Gillett

Brisbane Roar v Melbourne Victory, Suncorp Stadium, Saturday 6.45pm (EDT), FS1HD

Brisbane Roar squad: 1. Michael Theo (gk), 3. Shane Stefanutto, 4. Matt Jurman, 5. Ivan Franjic, 7. Besart Berisha, 8. Massimo Murdocca, 9. Stef Nijland, 10. Henrique, 11. Ben Halloran, 13. Jade North, 14. Steven Lustica, 15. James Donachie, 17. Mitch Nichols, 18. Luke Brattan, 19. Jack Hingert, 20. Matt Acton (gk), 22. Thomas Broich (c), 25. George Lambadaridis. (Three to be omitted)

Ins: 8. Massimo Murdocca (returns from injury), 4. Matt Jurman (promoted), 25. George Lambadaridis (promoted

Outs: Nil

Unavailable: 2. Matt Smith (hip – season)

Melbourne Victory Squad: 1. Tando Velaphi (GK), 3. Adama Traore, 5. Mark Milligan, 6. Leigh Broxham, 8. Jonathan Bru, 9. Marcos Flores, 10. Archie Thompson, 11. Marco Rojas, 13. Diogo Ferreira, 14. Billy Celeski, 17. Jimmy Jeggo, 18. Francesco Stella, 21. Spase Dilevski, 22. Jesse Makarounas, 23. Adrian Leijer, 26. Andrew Nabbout, 31. Scott Galloway, 32. Connor Pain, 33. Daniel Mullen, 39. Nathan Coe (GK) (Five to be omitted)

Ins: Marcos Flores (returns from injury)

Outs: Nil

Unavailable: 7. Gui FINKLER (knee) 24.Nick ANSELL (groin)

Western Sydney Wanderers v Wellington Phoenix, Parramatta Stadium, 5.00 PM (EDT), FS1HD

Western Sydney Wanderers squad: 1. Ante Covic (GK), 2. Shannon Cole, 3. Adam D'Apuzzo, 4. Nikolai Topor-Stanley, 5. Michael Beauchamp, 6. Jerome Polenz, 7. Labinot Haliti, 8. Mateo Poljak, 9. Dino Kresinger, 10. Aaron Mooy, 11. Tarek Elrich, 13. Joey Gibbs, 14. Kwabena Appiah-Kubi, 15. Reece Caira, 16. Rocky Visconte, 17. Youssouf Hersi, 18. Iacopo La Rocca, 19. Mark Bridge, 20. Jerrad Tyson (GK), 21. Shinji Ono, 23. Jason Trifiro, 25. Josh Barresi (Seven to be omitted)

Ins: 2. Shannon Cole, 13. Joey Gibbs, 14. Kwabena Appiah-Kubi , 15. Reece Caira, 16. Rocky Visconte, 23. Jason Trifiro (all promoted). 25. Josh Barresi (new signing)

Outs: nil

Unavailable: 12. Tahj Minniecon  (foot season)

Wellington Phoenix squad: 1. Mark Paston (GK), 2. Manny Muscat,  3.Tony Lochhead; 4. Isaka Cernak, 7. Leo Bertos, 8. Paul Ifill, 11. Jeremy Brockie, 12. Tyler Boyd, 15. Cameron Lindsay, 16. Louis Fenton, 17. Vince Lia, 18. Ben Sigmund, 20. Glen Moss (GK), 21. Dani Sanchez, 22. Andrew Durante (C), 23. Corey Gameiro (One to be omitted)

In: 4. Isaka Cernak (returns from injury), 15. Cameron Lindsay (promoted).

Out: Stein Huysegems (suspended).
                                                                    
Unavailable:  10. Stein Huysegems (suspended), 19. Jimmy Downey (knee – indefinite).

Referee: Strebre Delovski

Melbourne Heart v Adelaide United, AAMI Park, Monday 7.30pm (EDT), FS1HD 

Melbourne Heart FC Squad: 1. Clint Bolton (GK), 3. Cameron Edwards, 4. Simon Colosimo, 5. Fred, 6. Patrick Gerhardt, 8. Matt Thompson, 11. Richard Garcia, 13. Jonatan Germano 14. Golgol Mebrahtu, 15. David Williams, 16, Marcel Meeuwis, 17. Jason Hoffman, 18. David Vrankovic, 19. Ben Garuccio, 20. Andrew Redmayne (GK), 21. Jamie Coyne, 22. Nick Kalmar, 25. Jeremy Walker, 36. Eli Babalj (Five to be omitted)

Ins: 3. Cameron Edwards (promoted), 10. Josip Tadic (returns from injury), 17. Jason Hoffman (promoted), 18. David Vrankovic (promoted), 19. Ben Garuccio (promoted)

Outs: Nil

Unavailable: 23. Mate Dugandzic (broken foot – season) 

Adelaide United squad: 1.Eugene Galekovic (gk) (c), 3.Nigel Boogaard, 4.Jon McKain, 5.Iain Fyfe, 6.Cassio, 8.Marcelo Carrusca, 10.Dario Vidosic, 12.Antony Golec, 14.Cameron Watson, 16.Daniel Bowles, 17.Iain Ramsay, 20.Paul Izzo (gk), 21.Jeronimo Neumann, 22.Fabio Ferreira, 23.Evan Kostopoulos, 24.Awer Mabil, 25.Tomi Juric (Two to be omitted)

Ins: Jon McKain (returns from suspension), Iain Fyfe (promoted), Fabio Ferreira (returns from injury)

Outs: Osama Malik (suspended – 1 match)

Unavailable: Bruce Djite (ankle – 1 week)

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Arthur: I pray for a big Watson score

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Good luck ... Mickey Arthur (L) is praying for Shane Watson. Source: Julian Smith / AAP

Australia coach Mickey Arthur says a little prayer every time his vice-captain Shane Watson walks out to bat during the Test tour of India.

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Watson has been going in at No.4 and, despite looking good, the right-hander has struggled to get the big score his team needs.

"I don't think it's a technique thing at all," Arthur said on Wednesday, the day after the tourists slumped to a massive defeat by an innings and 135 runs in the second Test against India in Hyderabad.

"Every time he has gone to the wicket, he has looked brilliant.

"But he's been getting out for 20s. I just pray every time he goes to the wicket there's a big score because I think once he gets that one big score, that will unlock the shackles.

"And the truth be told, we really need Shane Watson firing now. Michael Clarke needs a lot of support in the batting.

"We can't be a one-trick pony and we need other guys to stand up. We really do."

Watson said before the series began that he was determined to prove to his knockers that he could hold a place in the side as a batsman only, after choosing to not bowl in India as he regains fitness following injury problems.

The 31-year-old plans to resume bowling at Test level in the Ashes series in July.

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For now he must address his inability to support the team's leading batsman and skipper Clarke.

Watson has scored only 605 runs at 25.20 in his past 13 Tests, including just 77 at an average of 19.25 in two Tests in India.

Clarke has confirmed a reshuffle of the batting order with the skipper to move from No.5 into the top four, which could involved Watson either staying at No.4 or possibly moving up one spot to No.3.

The skipper is Australia's leading scorer in the series with 268 runs at 67.00.

His footwork to the spinners has been a stand-out in comparison to others such as struggling No.3 Phil Hughes (25 runs at 6.25), who could face the axe for the third Test in Mohali on March 14.

Australia trail 2-0 in the four-match series but can retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy if they can win the last two matches.

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'Nani deserved to be sent off'

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Drama ... Nani shown the red card by referee Cuneyt Cakir. Source: Andrew Yates / AFP

There's nothing like a sending off in a big game to bring out the old football cliches: "That was a yellow at most, but never a red", "how can you send him off for that", "the ref's killed this game".

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Observers generally basing their opinion on the first one or two replays they see, or indeed based on which team they are supporting in the match in question.

Should Nani have been sent-off v Real Madrid?

In the Manchester United versus Real Madrid UEFA Champions League clash at Old Trafford, the home team had worked their way in front (1-0 on the night, 2-1 on aggregate). Sir Alex Ferguson was winning his tactical battle against Jose Mourinho in their round of 16 tie, but then one moment changed the momentum of the tie forever.

But was the referee, as the majority 'screamed', wrong to send Nani off?

What happened with 55 minutes on the clock was: Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra cleared the ball up-field, just clear of his teammate Nani, who instantly looked over his shoulder to see where his nearest opponent was.

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Red card or not, what do you think? Check out our poll and have your say!

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Yes, he did look over his shoulder and saw Alvaro Arbeloa coming his way, and this is one of the most important facts to digest, because the replays which most people are basing their opinion on, DO NOT show that Nani had indeed established that company was coming.

So in the knowledge Nani only has one opponent to beat, in a bid to spark a potential goal-scoring counter-attack, he jumps into the air with his right-boot outstretched in an attempt to bring the ball under control. But there's a problem – surely a player with 20 years of football experience senses that he is about to enter a 50-50 contest.

Here's where the point of contention comes. Nani does watch the ball for almsot its entire journey in flight, but at the last instant he realises he has lost this contest. He knows Arbeloa is going to control the ball with his chest. Now, we are talking about split-second moments, but this is what elite footballers deal with in every game.

Nani has a choice to make: "do I (a) pull out of the contest, or (b) do I follow through with my raised boot into my opponent's ribs and make him earn it?" Sadly, the Portuguese flyer chose the latter, and even thrusted his foot with a second motion after contact. The referee, who had a great view of the incident, read the situation brilliantly.

How can you make such an assumption I hear you ask? Well, why does Nani, whose only point of contact in the entire collision was the bottom of his foot, then roll around on the ground feeling his head and chest area? It is a smother, to suggest both players came off equally worse after a 50-50 challenge.

So is it a red card offence or a yellow card?

Well, as the rulebook now states, a send-off should occur if: "any player lunges at an opponent in challenging for the ball from the front, from the side or from behind using one or both legs, with excessive force and endangering the safety of an opponent."

Can anyone doubt that Nani "endangered the safety" of Arbeloa? The answer has to be no, and that was not just the referee's view, but also the view of former Manchester United captain Roy Keane, who was at Old Trafford as a pundit for UK television.

Keane said: "The ref made the right call. United fans can argue all day – it is dangerous play. Whether he meant it or not doesn't matter."

Sure, it changed the game, with Real Madrid going on to score twice and advance to the quarter-finals 3-2 on aggregate, and few would have complained if the Turkish referee Cuneyt Cakir had shown Nani just a yellow card.

But referees are trained to give red cards when they see a red card offence, no matter what the occasion, and unlike Howard Webb's refusal to send Nigel De Jong off in the 2010 World Cup final, Mr Cakir saw a red card offence and he punished in kind.

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Aussies annihilated in Hyderabad

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Struggle ... Shane Watson was dismissed early on day four. Source: Andres Leighton / AAP

India have demoralised Australia by taking a two-nil lead in their four-Test series with a massive victory by an innings and 135 runs on Tuesday.

2nd Test - Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium

2 March 2013 - Day 4, Session 1

Australia 2nd Innings

J. Pattinson	0	27	0	0	0
X. Doherty	1	26	0	0	3.85
R. Ashwin	28	12	63	5	2.25

The home side's win in Hyderabad came at lunch on day four with spinners Ravi Ashwin (5-63) and Ravindra Jadeja (3-33) in dominant form.

Resuming on day four on 2-74, Australia were bowled out for 131.

It's Australia's first innings defeat since the 2010-11 Ashes series.

Opener Ed Cowan top-scored with 44 in a shocking collapse of 8-56 from Australia's batsmen, which followed their eight-wicket loss in the first Test in Chennai.

Shane Watson (nine) was caught down legside off the bowling of Ishant Sharma in the third over of the day on Tuesday in the type of dismissal every batsman hates.

The spirits of the touring team's dressing room sank when their in-form skipper Michael Clarke (16) was bowled by a delivery that turned away from left-arm spinner Jadeja at 4-108.

Jadeja struck again in his next over at 5-111 when Cowan was caught at slip after the ball rebounded off wicketkeeper MS Dhoni's pads.

Without addition to the total, Moises Henriques was run out for a duck at the striker's end following a direct hit by Jadeja. The sense of panic in the batting team was clear.

All-rounder Glenn Maxwell completed a poor debut with the bat (13 and eight) when he was lbw to offspinner Ashwin, who produced a delivery that turned the other way.

Peter Siddle (four) and Matthew Wade (10) fell in consecutive deliveries to Jadeja and Ashwin with the score on 130 and James Pattinson was Ashwin's fifth victim, lbw for one.

The third Test of the four-match series starts in Mohali on March 14 and Australia will have plenty to ponder, including their top-order troubles.

An unlikely form reversal from Australia in the final two Tests would allow Clarke's side to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

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Relive all the action from the second Test with our Match Centre.

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Live teams: NRL Round 1 teams

Sea Eagles ... name a new look pack which includes Justin Horo. Source: Braden Fastier / News Limited

Manly coach Geoff Toovey has named a new-look pack for Friday night's NRL opening round clash with Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium.

While the backline has a familiar feel to it with Brett Stewart, Jamie Lyon and winger David Williams all included, new faces Justin Horo and Brenton Lawrence will both start in the forwards.

Former Parramatta back-rower Horo takes the place of departed NSW State of Origin star Tony Williams in the second row, while ex-Gold Coast bruiser Lawrence will pack down alongside Brent Kite in the front row with Jason King (shoulder) still out injured.

Joining King on the sidelines is representative lock Glenn Stewart, with Jamie Buhrer to start the game in the No.13 jersey.

Newcomers Jesse Sene Lefao and Peta Hiku have also been included on a six-man interchange bench alongside ex-Melbourne forward Richie Fa'aoso.

Meanwhile Steve Turner is expected to be named to replaced Dally M medalist Ben Barba at fullback for Canterbury-Bankstown's opening round clash with North Queensland on Saturday.

The former NSW State of Origin winger was named in the custodians role for Barba who has indefinitely been stood down from club duties due to off-field issues.

Monday

Monday Night Football LIVE 6.30pm (EDT)

Monday Night with Matty Johns LIVE 9pm (EDT)

Tuesday

The Back Page LIVE 7.30pm (EDT)

Wednesday

NRL 360 LIVE 7.30pm (EDT)

Thursday

Sterlo 6.30pm (EDT)

Friday

Late Night League (Delayed Friday night football) 10pm (EDT)

Saturday

Super Saturday from 1pm (EDT)

Up to 3 LIVE NRL matches

LIVE VB NSW Cup and Holden Cup

Sunday

NRL Sunday from 11.30am (EDT)

Up to 3 LIVE NRL matches

LIVE Holden Cup

Turner, 28, managed just eight games last year before suffering a season-ending knee injury.

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Despite the loss of their star player, Bulldogs coach Des Hasler says Barba's absence will not hinder their season.

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"Benny is working away at what he has to do. It's pretty well documented what he has to do and we'll leave it to the professionals," Hasler said.

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Hasler bristled when asked if his absence had affected his side's preparations for their season opener against North Queensland on Saturday in Gosford.

"How's it affected our preparations?" he said.

"We have plenty of experience at the back. We have (Sam) Perrett, (Steve) Turner, (Krisnan) Inu can play there.

"Experience is the appropriate thing right now."

Finally Penrith have extended the contract of exciting youngster Josh Mansour for a further 12 months.

The Panthers 2012 Rookie of the Year will remain with the club until at least the end of 2014. 

South Sydney v Sydney Roosters, Thursday, March 7, 8:05pm (EDT), Allianz Stadium

South Sydney Rabbitohs - Greg Inglis, Nathan Merritt, Dylan Farrell, Beau Champion, Andrew Everingham, John Sutton, Adam Reynolds, Sam Burgess, Issac Luke, Roy Asotasi, Chris McQueen, Ben Te'o, Ben Lowe. Interchange: Nathan Peats, Michael Crocker, Jeff Lima, George Burgess, David Tyrrell, Jason Clark, Bryson Goodwin.

Sydney Roosters - Anthony Minichiello, Daniel Tupou, Michael Jennings, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, James Maloney, Mitchell Pearce, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Jake Friend, Sam Moa, Aidan Guerra, Mitch Aubusson, Frank-Paul Nuuausala. Interchange: Daniel Mortimer, Martin Kennedy, Sonny Bill Williams, Luke O'Donnell, Boyd Cordner, Michael Oldfield, Tinirau Arona.

Brisbane Broncos v Manly - Friday, March 8, 8:05pm (EDT), Suncorp Stadium

Brisbane Broncos - Corey Norman, Josh Hoffman, Jack Reed, Justin Hodges, Lachlan Maranta, Scott Prince, Peter Wallace, Josh McGuire, Andrew McCullough, Sam Thaiday (c), Alex Glenn, Matt Gillett, Corey Parker. Interchange: Ben Hunt, Ben Hannant, Mitchell Dodds, David Stagg, Scott Anderson.

Manly - Brett Stewart, Jorge Taufua, Jamie Lyon, Steve Matai, David Williams, Kieran Foran, Daly Cherry-Evans, Brenton Lawrence, Matt Ballin, Brent Kite, Anthony Watmough, Justin Horo, Jamie Buhrer. Interchange: Richie Fa'aoso, Joe Galuvao, David Gower, Jesse Sene-Lefao, Peta Hiku, George Rose

Parramatta v Warriors - Saturday, March 9, 5:30pm (EDT), Parramatta Stadium

Parramatta: Jarryd Hayne, Ken Sio, Ryan Morgan, Jacob Loko, Cheyse Blair, Luke Kelly, Chris Sandow, Darcy Lussick, Matt Keating, Tim Mannah, Reni Maitua, Ben Smith, Joseph Paulo. Interchange: Ben Roberts, Fuifui Moimoi, Mitchell Allgood, Matt Ryan.

Warriors - Kevin Locke, Glen Fisiiahi, Dane Nielsen, Konrad Hurrell, Manu Vatuvei, Thomas Leuluai, Shaun Johnson, Sam Rapira, Elijah Taylor, Ben Matulino, Feleti Mateo, Simon Mannering (C), Todd Lowrie. Interchange: Ben Henry, Jacob Lillyman, Sebastine Ikahihifo, Pita Godinet, Steve Rapira, Charlie Gubb

Canterbury-Bankstown v North Queensland Cowboys, Saturday, March 9, 7:30pm (EDT), Bluetongue Stadium

Canterbury-Bankstown: Steve Turner, Drury Low, Josh Morris, Krisnan Inu, Sam Perrett, Josh Reynolds, Kris Keating, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis (c), Martin Taupau, Tony Williams, Josh Jackson, Greg Eastwood. Interchange: Dene Halatau, Dale Finucane, Tim Browne, David Klemmer, Mitch Brown.

Cowboys - Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Brent Tate, Kane Linnett, Antonio Winterstein, Johnathan Thurston, Ray Thompson, Matt Scott, Scott Moore, James Tamou, Gavin Cooper, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Rory Kostjasyn, Ashton Sims, Tariq Sims, Jason Taumalolo, Scott Bolton, Robert Lui.

Penrith v Canberra, Sunday, March 10, 2pm (EDT), Centrebet Stadium

Penrith - Dean Whare, Josh Mansour, Wes Naiqama, Brad Tighe, David Simmons, Lachlan Coote, Luke Walsh, Sam McKendry, Kevin Kingston, Tim Grant, Sika Manu, Lewis Brown, Nathan Smith. Interchange: James Segeyaro, Nigel Plum, Clint Newton, Jeremy Latimore, Adam Docker.

Canberra - Reece Robinson, Sandor Earl, Jack Wighton, Blake Ferguson, Edrick Lee, Josh McCrone, Sam Williams, David Shillington, Shaun Berrigan, Dane Tilse, Josh Papalii, Joel Thompson, Shaun Fensom. Interchange: Matt McIlwrick, Joel Edwards, Mark Nicholls, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Brett White.

Melbourne v St George Illawarra, Sunday, March 10, 3pm (EDT), AAMI Park

Melbourne: Billy Slater, Matt Duffie, Will Chambers, Justin O'Neill, Mahe Fonua, Gareth Widdop, Cooper Cronk, Jesse Bromwich, Cameron Smith, Bryan Norrie, Tohu Harris, Ryan Hoffman, Ryan Hinchcliffe. Interchange: Jason Ryles, Lagi Setu, Siosaia Vave, Junior Moors, Brett Finch

St George Illawarra - Gerard Beale, Brett Morris, Chase Stanley, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale, Jamie Soward, Nathan Fien, Dan Hunt, Mitch Rein, Michael Weyman, Tyson Frizell, Ben Creagh (c), Trent Merrin. Interchange: Bronson Harrison, Leeson Ah Mau, Matt Prior, Cameron King, Jack Stockwell

Cronulla v Gold Coast - Sunday, March 10, 6:30pm (EDT), Sharks Stadium

Cronulla: Michael Gordon, Jonathan Wright, Ricky Leutele, Matthew Wright, Beau Ryan, Todd Carney, Jeff Robson, Andrew Fifita, Isaac De Gois, Ben Ross, Luke Lewis, Wade Graham, Paul Gallen. Interchange: Chris Heighington, Jon Green, John Morris, Anthony Tupou, Jayson Bukuya, Mark Taufua, Chad Townsend.

Gold Coast  - William Zillman, Kevin Gordon, Brad Takairangi, Jamal Idris, David Mead, Aidan Sezer, Albert Kelly, Luke Douglas, Matt Srama, Nate Myles, Greg Bird, Ben Ridge, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Dave Taylor, Luke Bailey, Ryan James, Beau Falloon, Luke O'Dwyer

Newcastle v Wests Tigers. Monday, March 11, 7pm (EDT), Hunter Stadium

Newcastle Knights - Darius Boyd, James McManus, Dane Gagai, Anthony Quinn, Akuila Uate, Jarrod Mullen, Kurt Gidley, Kade Snowden, Travis Waddell, Willie Mason, Beau Scott, Chris Houston, Jeremy Smith. Interchange: Tyrone Roberts, Neville Costigan, Robbie Rochow, Alex McKinnon, David Fa'alogo.

Tigers: Tim Moltzen, Matt Utai, Blake Ayshford, Chris Lawrence, Marika Koroibete, Benji Marshall, Jacob Miller, Jack Buchanan, Robbie Farah, Keith Galloway, Braith Anasta, Liam Fulton, Adam Blair. Interchange: Matt Bell, Ben Murdoch-Masila, Bodene Thompson, Eddy Pettybourne, Joel Reddy, Aaron Woods.

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Tahs lose Palu for Brumbies clash

Blow ... Palu twisted his left ankle in the Waratahs' over the Rebels. Source: Mark Evans / News Limited

Powerful but injury-prone No.8 Wycliff Palu will miss the Waratahs' Super Rugby clash with the Brumbies, possibly opening the way for the Timani brothers to start together.

Palu twisted his left ankle in last Friday's win over Melbourne Rebels and turned up at training on Monday in a moon boot.

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"We're waiting for the scans to come back," coach Michael Cheika said.

Australia Conference		W	L	D	PD	BP	Pts
1	Brumbies	2	0	0	35	1	13
2	Reds	2	1	0	-4	0	8
3	Waratahs	1	1	0	-3	0	8
4	Melbourne Rebels	1	2	0	-15	1	5
5	Western Force	0	3	0	-29	1	1
New Zealand Conference		W	L	D	PD	BP	Pts
1	Chiefs	2	0	0	56	2	10
2	Blues	2	0	0	33	2	10
3	Highlanders	0	1	0	-14	0	4
4	Crusaders	0	1	0	-19	0	4
5	Hurricanes	0	2	0	-20	1	1
South Africa Conference		W	L	D	PD	BP	Pts
1	Bulls	2	0	0	18	1	9
2	Sharks	2	0	0	13	0	8
3	Southern Kings	1	0	0	12	0	8
4	Stormers	0	2	0	-14	1	1
5	Cheetahs	0	2	0	-49	1	1

"I'd say he'll definitely be out this week no matter what.

"Then we'll see how severe the turn is, whether there's been a syndesmosis, we'll just see how it pans out.

"But I don't think it's a long long injury, I think it might be a few weeks max."

Lopeti Timani, who has experience at No.8, looms as a likely replacement for Palu.

Brother and Test second-rower Sitaleki has recovered from the corked thigh that forced him out of last week's win over Melbourne.

Cheika said Sitaleki would return this week and was confident he had the depth to cover for Palu's injury.

Openside flanker Pat McCutcheon is available again, though he hasn't played for almost a year following an horrific ankle injury.

In-form AJ Gilbert, who was scheduled to play No.8 for Waratahs A in their rained-out match against Fiji A last week, could be another contender for a spot in the 22.

"We've got some good back-row options," Cheika said.

"There's a few guys who have been pushing hard, either off the bench or not even in the squad.

"McCutcheon is back in the frame now as well. So we'll just see how training goes this week and make a call later on."

Cheika was also confident Berrick Barnes would be fit after missing the first two games with a knee injury, though the utility back only rated himself an outside chance.

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Video: Pole vaulter dummy spit

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Dummy spit ... Pole vault champion Renaud Lavillenie loses it after a disallowed attempt. Source: Matt Dunham / AP

Olympic champion Renaud Lavillenie won a third European indoor pole vault title but was furious that a mighty 6.07m attempt was ruled out over a technical hitch.

The Frenchman took gold with 6.01m before successfully clearing 6.07m on his third and final attempt, which would have made him the second highest vaulter in history behind the legendary Sergei Bubka.

But officials ruled his attempt was invalid as the bar, which he had touched, did not fall despite it having bounced out of its peg-holding position.

A furious Lavillenie kicked out at the advertising hoardings and launched an angry tirade against the judges before collapsing to the floor.

After a tense few moments, the French athlete reluctantly accepted the decision and celebrated his victory, achieved ahead of German duo Bjorn Otto, who recorded 5.76m, and Malte Mohr, 5.76m.

"This should have been an extraordinary day but I am left with an incomplete feeling. I know that I made it, I have seen the videos which show it. I am the second best performer of all time," said Lavillenie.

"These are stupid rules. I am not mincing my words, everyone knows it. We have so many obstacles in the way these days. We have reduced the time allowed to jump, we have reduced the length of our spikes.

"It's not the same as 20 years ago when Bubka was setting world records. I would have had no problems 20 years back when I could have gone even higher."

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Phoenix dent Heart's finals hopes

Flying high ... Wellington Phoenix end a difficult week with victory over Melbourne Heart. Source: Ross Setford / AAP

Wellington Phoenix ended a tumultuous week with a deserved 1-0 A-League win over Melbourne Heart in Dunedin on Sunday.

Jeremy Brockie scored in the first half to give the competition's bottom club their first win since they beat the Perth Glory 1-0 in Auckland on February 2.

They finished with 10 men after striker Stein Huysegems got a second yellow card late in the match for a tackle on Simon Colosimo.

The result left the Heart winless for their 16th consecutive away game stretching back to 2011.

		P	W	D	L	GD	Pts
1	Western Sydney	23	15	2	6	14	47
2	Central Coast	23	13	6	4	24	45
3	Adelaide	23	11	3	9	1	36
4	Victory	22	11	3	8	-2	36
5	Newcastle	23	8	6	9	-6	30
6	Brisbane	23	8	4	11	1	28
7	Heart	23	8	3	12	-2	27
8	Sydney	23	8	3	12	-10	27
9	Perth	23	7	4	12	-3	25
10	Wellington	24	6	6	12	-17	24

The Phoenix had much the better of the game at Forsyth Barr Stadium and should have won by more.
They went into the game after a week in which coach Ricki Herbert's resignation was followed by a 2-1 loss to the Newcastle Jets on Wednesday night.

The Phoenix made the early running, Brockie and Huysegems both hitting the bar and Ben Sigmund heading the ball into the ground in front of goal.

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Re-live all the highlights, with video of all the action and more stats than you can poke a stick at, at our A-League Match Centre.

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They went in front after 19 minutes when Brockie volleyed home a cross from Paul Ifill for his 14th goal of the season.

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The Phoenix had a golden chance to go two up three minutes later but Huysegems hit the left-hand upright after goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne narrowed the angle.

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The home side had a clear edge in possession and territory in the first half but were unable to make capital, missing at least six clear-cut chances.

The second spell started in a similar vein to the first, Sigmund and Ifill both heading over the net.

Heart began to threaten midway through the second spell, but the Phoenix defence, backed by a small but noisy crowd of 4000, was equal to the task.

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Van Gisbergen wins race two

Happy days ... Van Gisbergen ended a controversial weekend in style. Source: AAP

Tongues were wagging about Kiwi star Shane van Gisbergen before he had even arrived at the V8 Supercars season opener in Adelaide this weekend - for all the wrong reasons.

However, the controversial driver walked away from the tight street circuit with a much more positive buzz on Sunday after holding out defending champion Jamie Whincup and emerging with race two honours.

Van Gisbergen was the talk of the track after his former team threatened legal action in a bid to stop him from racing following a messy off-season departure.

And the flying Kiwi continued to dominate conversation by clinching his third career victory on a weekend in which he also claimed back-to-back pole positions.

He finished more than two seconds ahead of four-time championship winner Whincup in the 250km race with his Triple Eight Holden teammate Craig Lowndes third in front of a sell-out 95,000-strong crowd.

Van Gisbergen snapped a 34-race winning run by Holden's Triple Eight and Ford Performance Racing who had combined to claim every V8 Supercars event since November 2011.

The young upstart's win seemed an apt way to usher in an exciting era under new Car of the Future (COTF) specifications.

1. Shane Van Gisbergen (Holden) 1:51:52.4116
2. Jamie Whincup (Holden) 1:51:54.6309
3. Craig Lowndes (Holden) 1:51:56.2409
4. Russell Ingall (Holden) 1:51:59.4847
5. Mark Winterbottom (Ford) 1:51:59.8002
6. Will Davison (Ford) + 1 Lap
7. James Courtney (Holden) + 1 Lap
8. Tony D Alberto (Holden) + 1 Lap
9. Scott McLaughlin (Holden) + 1 Lap
10. Jonathon Webb (Holden) + 1 Lap
11. Scott Pye (Holden) + 1 Lap
12. Dean Fiore (Holden) + 1 Lap
13. James Moffat (Nissan) + 1 Lap
14. Rick Kelly (Nissan) + 1 Lap
15. Tim Blanchard (Ford) + 1 Lap
16. David Wall (Holden) + 1 Lap
17. Lee Holdsworth (Mercedes) + 1 Lap
18. Jason Bright (Holden) DNF
19. Garth Tander (Holden) DNF
20. Todd Kelly (Nissan) DNF
21. Alex Davison (Ford) DNF
22. Jonny Reid (Ford) DNF
23. Tim Slade (Mercedes) DNF
24. Michael Caruso (Nissan) DNF
25. Maro Engel (Ford) DNF
26. Fabian Coulthard (Holden) DNF
27. David Reynolds (Ford) DNF
28. Alex Premat (Holden) DNF

All 28 competitors boasted new vehicles, including newcomers Mercedes and Nissan, the first time an entire field had done so at the same round in touring car history.

Initially it was business as usual as Lowndes took out the opening 250km race by more than 20 seconds on Saturday.

And it seemed his teammate Whincup would extend their Holden team's dominance on Sunday before van Gisbergen got the jump with a clever 42nd lap pit stop.

Van Gisbergen appeared to have an unbeatable six second buffer over the Holden ace but lost his advantage when the safety car emerged after Alex Davison hit the concrete wall with 13 laps left.

Van Gisbergen somehow kicked clear to emerge unscathed from the mad scramble that ensued to claim line honours.

His win almost made up for the disappointment of race one when he claimed pole but failed to finish due to gearbox problems.

Still the Holden Triple Eight team again appears to be the team to beat this year. Whincup backed up Saturday's third-placing with second on Sunday.

And Lowndes was third to lead the series on 279 points, 12 ahead of Whincup and 39 ahead of Ford's Will Davison.

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