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Tigers overcome Lions charge

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 10 Agustus 2013 | 14.23

Reece Conca booted three goals to help the Tigers secure victory. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Michael Klein / HeraldSun

HERE is the good news - Richmond locked in that long-awaited finals berth in which its fans have waited so desperately for more than a decade.

Now, the far more sobering news. The Tigers missed a real chance to make a statement to the rest of the AFL competition that it means to do some serious damage in September.

And it showed that it still has plenty of work to do ahead of the finals in just under a month's time.

It was one of those sort of afternoons at the MCG when Damien Hardwick's team secured its lucky 13th win of the season – that magical figure which all but guarantees the club's first finals appearance since 2001 – yet simply could not put the foot at the throat of the Lions when it looked likely.

The Tigers were very good at times, moderate at others, and downright vulnerable at different stages.

The first half showed that their midfield runs almost as deep as any in the premiership race, their defence is as resolute as it has been for almost a generation and that its forward line is less reliant on Jack Riewoldt than it has been in the past.

The second half showed cracks in all areas that would have seen Hardwick happy to put the four premiership points in the bank, but clearly frustrated that it could not have been achieved with greater certainty.

After an outstanding first term that yielded six goals to one and a 29-point ascendancy, it looked like it would be a procession for the Tigers. That received even more validation in the second term as the home side dominated the stats sheet as they went to a game-high lead of 46 points later in that term.

A percentage-booster looked to be in the offing.

That never happened, and the fact that it didn't will give Hardwick plenty of ammunition leading into Saturday's big clash with Carlton.

Admittedly, teams that have all but locked in finals appearances can sometimes have flat moments against sides that they know they have their measure against.

Yet Richmond was always flirting with danger against a side that has almost made an art form of resurrecting hopeless situations against good teams.

The Tigers failed to kick a goal in the third term, as the Lions wrestled their way back in the contest, winning the ball out of the middle with almost as much regularity as their opponents had in the first half.

The difference was 26 points at the last change as Brisbane threatened to cause yet another final term upset, when Pearce Hanley brought his team to within 16 points at the 20-minute-mark.

Six minutes and 26 seconds remained on the clock as Richmond nervously clung onto the match, making more than a few mistakes in the process.

Finally, it was Riewoldt, who iced a game that should have been secured a hell of a lot earlier, when he nailed a left foot angle goal five minutes later, to the relief of the Richmond faithful, and quite probably, his teammates.

The final margin was 23 points, and that was all that mattered in the final analysis.

Trent Cotchin was a strong contributor again, Daniel Jackson continued his fine season, Steven Morris and Bachar Houli were strong in defence, and Nathan Foley gave plenty of drive.

For the Lions, Tom Rockliff played a bit role in getting his team back into the contest, while Hanley was solid, Matt Maguire had an intriguing duel with Riewoldt, and Sam Mayes slotted through three goals.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Cats hold on as Power surges

Geelong forward Steven Motlop brings down Port Adelaide young gun Chad Wingard in a strong tackle. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Colleen Petch / HeraldSun

COMPARISONS were made earlier in the season between Steven Motlop and Hawthorn's Cyril Rioli.

They were wrong.

With due respect to Rioli, Motlop has consigned him to the rearview mirror.

And as the catalyst for Geelong's 25-point romp over Port Adelaide at Simonds Stadium, even the scope of that comparison needs to be changed.

For no longer are comparisons based on his aboriginality or influential cameos relevant; it's time to look far higher up the AFL totem pole.

SuperCoach scores, stats

Motlop is 22, runs like the wind, never shirks a hard contest, loves a goal, is mercurial, well versed in Chris Scott's game plan and demands plenty of his teammates.

While it's a long bow to draw right now, if that doesn't sound like Gary Ablett circa 2007, my intended meaning has been missed.

And the rousing reception he received when running off after a spectacular third-quarter snapped goal shows he's already come a long way in winning over the Cats faithful.

The final margin flattered Port, which had been 63 points down four minutes into the final term.

On the shoulders of Angus Monfries, who booted three of his career-best seven goals in a late burst, the Power kicked the final six goals to at least continue the club's run of plucky finishes.

But as they have for the third consecutive time after a shock loss in the past two months, the Cats used their home-ground edge to bury any doubts that might have crept in.

However, unlike previous routs that were based on the usual suspects, this was built on the new breed.

That's not to downplay the ball-winning abilities -- nor influence -- of Steve Johnson, Harry Taylor or skipper Joel Selwood, who were all crucial in hosing down the previously red-hot Power.

But Motlop, Allen Christensen and the unexpected revelation of the Cats' season, Josh Caddy, were given -- and relished in -- more expansive roles as Port was left with just too many midfield holes to plug.

The Cats have been high on Christensen for a long time and while Caddy doesn't shape as a weekly 30-touch machine just yet, he has shown increasingly that he's worth the wraps Gold Coast had on him before he was traded south.

Caddy is balanced, poised over the ball and seems to have an ability that somehow makes opponents miss tackling him effectively in packs.

Selwood was the chief beneficiary of the emerging young Cats, moving forward on several occasions to boot a career-high four goals.

At the other end, Monfries made the absolute most of his opportunities, capping the exemplary work of Matthew Lobbe in the ruck.

Lobbe was dominant with 59 hitouts and .

That the young ruckman so clearly had the better of Nathan Vardy in centre bounces, then added 17 touches and a goal will trouble Scott as he chases his best ruck combination for the finals.

With Trent West, Mark Blicavs, Hamish McIntosh and Dawson Simpson on the sidelines for various reasons, it remains the biggest single question mark over Geelong's September plans.

Another unfortunate speedbump came early when Mitch Duncan, whose ferocious attack on the footy has become a staple for Geelong fans, was hit in a huge tackle by Jackson Trengove and then clipped accidentally high by Oliver Wines within 30 seconds before hobbling off under trainers' help and being subbed out in the first term.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

NRL R22 match-ups that matter

Written By Unknown on Jumat, 09 Agustus 2013 | 14.23

Blake Ferguson will get a stern test in his first game back. Source: News Limited

FROM big boppers to game breakers and try-scoring machines, NRL round 22 is full of head-turning individual match-ups that make it unmissable action.

Each of the eight games across the weekend are significant for one reason or another, and to give you some idea of what to look out for, we've picked out the best of the one-on-one duels and outlined our expectations.

Reynolds v Cronk
Adam Reynolds will on Friday night travel into enemy territory with one mission; guide his out-of-form side to a much-needed win, despite the opposition's raft of superstar power. A tough responsibility to shoulder, but one he will have to embrace if he plans to take his place in a NSW side capable of ending Queensland's dominance in the coming years. The ever-professional Cronk will be out to show he still rules the roost and will not be relinquishing his stronghold on the Australian No.7 jersey, the premiership trophy or the State of Origin series any time soon.

Ferguson v Jennings
They were Origin teammates in game one, but now two of the NRL's most electrifying centres will go head-to-head in what promises to be a mouth-watering clash. Ferguson has dominated the press for the wrong reasons in recent months and will be looking to repay his club's faith with a dominant aerial display over a much shorter Jennings. Conversely, the Roosters' three-quarter will no doubt aim to expose the shortcomings in Ferguson's fitness after two months away from the top grade. Maloney and Pearce will be aware Ferguson averages three missed tackles per game and will send plenty of traffic in his direction. They will be hoping Jennings can get around the Canberra superstar once a lack of match fitness kicks in and his decision-making is hindered.

Mullen v Carney 
Jarrod Mullen was instrumental in Newcastle's come-from-behind draw with the Broncos last weekend; providing two try assists and a line-break. His left-to-right passing game will no doubt be on display again in round 22 as he attempts to put Dane Gagai and Akuila Uate on the outside of Jonathan Wright. However, a key aspect of his game against the Broncos was his propensity to ask questions of the defence with the ball in hand, running for a staggering 117 metres. It's a performance he will need to repeat if he is going to outshine his opposite number. Todd Carney, despite recent good form, looked out of sorts at Mt Smart Stadium last week, carrying the ball for only 22 metres, providing no try assists and kicking the ball only half the distance Mullen covered.

Johnson v Cherry-Evans
These two young men couldn't play more contrasting styles of football if they tried. Cherry-Evans works to a structured game plan, acting as the main cog in the well-oiled Manly machine. Shaun Johnson however, plays much more off the cuff, instinctive football, feeding off the back of the Warriors propensity to gamble when in possession. Currently, it is Johnson who has the better stats for season 2013, significantly outclassing Cherry Evans in try assists, line break assists, repeat sets forced and 40/20s. However, Cherry-Evans, despite not being as brilliant as Johnson, does all the little things right. He has made only 11 errors for the season in comparison to Johnson's 30. It goes some way to explaining why Manly currently sit third on the competition ladder, while the Warriors are 10th. The Warriors' chances in Sunday's game will come down to whether Johnson can eradicate the errors that plagued his performance against the Sharks. We know DCE and Manly will come to play mistake free, grinding football.

Tamou v Grant
Both men are slowly rediscovering the football which made them two of the games most feared props in 2012. Grant has had an injury marred 2013, while Tamou has been let down by poor form and off-field indiscretions. However, both will be expected to find their barnstorming best on Sunday in order to give their respective teams even the slightest hope of playing finals football. With very similar statistics this year, the biggest difference between the pair is Tamou's 28 tackle breaks in comparison to Grant's five. The Panthers big man will need to rectify this in order to provide his speedsters with quick play the balls and momentum if they are to come away with the victory.  


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Troisi on call to play against Brazil

Troisi, here on Socceroos duty, has been recalled from Atlanta by Juventus. Source: Kym Smith / News Limited

JUVENTUS has called Socceroo James Troisi to Turin after the left footed forward extended his dual ownership deal with the Old Lady and Atalanta.

Troisi, 25, is expected to meet Juve boss Antonio Conte and the club's directors to discuss his next move once the side returns from its US tour tonight.

Troisi has been training with Juve's other co-owned players in the searing conditions since taking a short break in Adelaide during the off season.

Troisi attracted interest from West Bromwich Albion and West Ham earlier this year.

Italian sources have also stated Troisi has been told to be prepared for a Socceroos call up for the Brazil clash in Brasilia on September 7.

The Adelaide-born attacker hasn't figured for the national team since last year when he started a 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Saudi Arabia (4-2) at AAMI Park.

AUSTRALIAN-born Christian Esposito - contracted to Italian Serie B club Novara - has been loaned out to the Azzurri's 2006 FIFA World Cup winning boss Marcello Lippi's old club Savona.

Sources have revealed the young attacker is considering a return to Australia to play A-League in 2014 for the first time in his career.

Esposito made his debut appearance for Savona in a Coppa Italia clash last weekend.

Savona beat former Socceroo Zeljko Kalac's former club Perugia 1-0 away from home.

In the Mixer understands that Perugia is on the verge of signing two Australian teenagers.

MELBOURNE HEART today confirmed that it has signed Dutch international Orlando Engelaar as its marquee player.

We're wondering how South Melbourne feels about this.

The defunct NSL's most successful club's bid to buy Heart's A-League franchise is not over according to sources.

The club first had a $3.5 million bid turned down by Heart officials in May.

But Heart officials have reportedly been approached with a bigger offer than the $7 million which was put on the table late last month.

South Melbourne Heart is the name bandied around Melbourne.

KOFI Danning wants to re-join Brisbane Roar a year after leaving them for Belgian outfit CS Vise.

The 22-year-old former Australian youth international had a tough time in Belgium, rarely tasting first-team action at the second division club and suffering a serious knee injury that led to reconstruction surgery.

Danning is now back in Brisbane doing his recovery with the Roar who are a sister club of Vise via having the same owners, the Bakrie Group.

When contacted, Danning was adamant he was not returning to Belgium and wanted to be part of the Roar's 2013-14 A-League squad.

Roar general manager Sean Dobson would not elaborate on whether Brisbane would offer Danning a deal.

"We have Kofi with us ensure his recovery is well managed," said Dobson, who added that the Bakrie Group's sporting arm Pelita Jaya Cronus felt Danning's recovery "would be better handled in Brisbane".

ADELAIDE United may move considerable steps closer to securing a brand financial institution as a huge sponsor.

Some clever networking from one of SA soccer's long time fiscal supporters is working on securing a date of the high profile meeting in concrete.

THE A-LEAGUE'S rumour mill has been rather quiet compared to what's happening in Europe but there has been some action at least between clubs.

Newcastle Jets were reportedly very close to securing Adelaide United's Jon McKain before Josep Gombau arrived to coach the Reds.

The plan was for Jets to cover part of McKain's wage while Adelaide was paying for most of it.

McKain then had some dabbles from the Middle East but at this stage there's nothing concrete on the table for the fringe Socceroos defender.

Foxtel's A-League All Star and Reds defender Nigel Boogaard has now been linked with a Jets move which wouldn't come as a surprise.

It's understood Gombau is looking to move some players on before the season kicks off.

LJUBO Milicevic back in the A-League?

The Roar website, not to be confused with the Roar A-League team, is speculating that the former Socceroos defender could be returning to the Newcastle Jets.

It would come as a shock considering the acrimonious way Milicevic left the Jets in 2011.

But there is no doubting Milicevic's talent and the fact that he would walk into A-League team.

ADELAIDE United defender Iain Fyfe has been given permission to explore opportunities in Iran.

After club officials on Tuesday told 'In the Mixer' offers had come in for players but nothing was concrete, Fyfe is possibly the first man to become Reds coach Josep Gombau's "my way or the highway" philosophy.

Massimo Murdocca 5@Murdocca8
So happy to have good mate @KostaBarb7 in my home city!! Congrats to him and @gomvfc #coffeesThey might now be playing for rival Melbourne teams, but former Brisbane Roar teammates Massimo Murdocca and Kosta Barbarouses will be best of buddies in the Victorian capital.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Bellamy says no to NRL Nines

Written By Unknown on Kamis, 08 Agustus 2013 | 14.23

Craig Bellamy is not happy with a beefed up NRL pre-season. Source: Robert Prezioso / Getty Images

MELBOURNE Storm coach Craig Bellamy says the only way his World Cup players will take part in the NRL Nines is if his club is threatened with a big fine or being thrown out of the competition.

Bellamy says his players' welfare comes first and he thinks the workload is already too much.

The inaugural NRL Nines event will be held in the pre-season on Feb 15 in Auckland.

"It just seems like we're creating more in each year," Bellamy said.

"It makes a really big workload for our elite players, who play Origin and play for Australia.

"At some stage we've got to look after the welfare of our elite players and I don't think that's happening at the moment."

Kangaroos and Storm fullback Billy Slater said earlier in the week he couldn't see himself playing in the Nines, with the World Cup final scheduled for November 30.

More than 100 NRL players will represent Australia, New Zealand, England, Papua New Guinea, Italy, Tonga and the Cook Islands at the World Cup.

The Storm could have up to eight players involved including Australian stars Slater, Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk.

Bellamy backed Slater, adamant none of his representative players would take part.

"Unless we're going to get fined or thrown out of the comp or something there won't be any of our World Cup players playing in the Nines."

The inclusion of the Nines, with $2.2m prizemoney, has come at the expense of the All Stars match.

Bellamy has been involved with the Indigenous All Stars and said he was disappointed to see it suspended until 2015.

"Something had to give I suppose but I was involved in the All Stars last year, in the camp with the Indigenous boys.

"I must say I really enjoyed that experience and I saw how important that was to the Indigenous boys.

"I'm pretty sad to be honest it's not going ahead." 


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What round 22 means for your side

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (centre) could be a revelation at fullback this weekend following an injury to Anthony Minichiello. Source: Matt King / Getty Images

SHOCK results and unfortunate injuries across the weekend have left the notion of who finishes where in the competition even more uncertain than it was last week.

If round 21 is any indication, reputations, records and recent form will be thrown out the window for the run home, and there will be no such thing as an easy win.

This makes for a very entertaining five weeks of footy, and it all starts Friday.

Here's how round 22 shapes up.

Storm v Rabbitohs:

A month ago this match would have been touted as a grand final rehearsal, but four weeks is a long time in rugby league. After being overrun by two cellar dwellers in their past three matches, South Sydney are no longer the outright competition leaders; they have not only lost their premiership favouritism, but also two of their stars in Greg Inglis and John Sutton. Consequently, weathering the storm will be the only thing on the Rabbitohs mind come Friday as they attempt to keep the five-point safety net between themselves and third placed Manly intact. Every match is crucial for the Redfern boys considering they meet all four of their top five counterparts in the remaining weeks. Melbourne, on the other hand, return home after their domination of Canberra and will aim to build on last week's red hot performance  to ensure the fifth placed Bulldogs remain three points behind them.

Eels v Tigers:

The phrase "dead rubber" doesn't fully encapsulate how pointless this game is. With Parramatta a seemingly unassailable six points behind the 15th placed Tigers, not even the wooden spoon is on the line. However, with Jarryd Hayne returning, Robbie Farah out and the Benji Marshall saga continuing to effect his form, this home game is the Eels best chance to snap an extended losing streak, which has now stretched to 10 games. 

Raiders v Roosters:

If there's one team in the competition who can bounce back from a 64-point drubbing in the space of a week, it's the boys from the nation's capital.  Their unpredictability, as well as the inclusion of Blake Ferguson, makes the Green Machine a real chance of toppling the premiership favourites on their home turf. The Roosters, however, who are again without Sonny Bill Williams, will seek to extend their five match winning streak, as well as their lead over the competition. They will no doubt remember their round five clash with the Raiders when they were run down despite holding a 16 point lead at one point. No doubt the Raiders will be more concerned about the injury to Anthony Minichello than the Bondi boys, with the electric Roger Tuivasa-Sheck set to step into his rightful role at the back; a scary thought for any defence.

Sharks v Knights:

Wayne Bennett has never missed consecutive finals series in his coaching career. However, things are looking ominous for the veteran mentor, with his side staring down the barrel of a three matches without a victory. A more bitter than sweet draw against the Broncos last week has the 8th placed Novocastrians looking over their shoulder at a resurgent Titans outfit only a point behind them.  To extend this advantage, the boys from Newcastle will have to tame a rampant Sharks side fresh from a hard-fought victory in Auckland. It's a tough ask at Remondis Stadium, even with the possible return of captain Kurt Gidley. 

Sea Eagles v Warriors:

There is no more daunting task in rugby league than facing a high flying Sea Eagles outfit at Brookvale on a Sunday afternoon. Luckily for the Warriors, they have been spared the hostility of the fortress, with Manly opting to move the match to Bluetongue Stadium on the Central Coast. And the boys from across the ditch will need all the help they can get if they are to snap the Eagles' five-game winning streak and keep their finals hopes alive. A surprising loss at home to Cronulla last week saw them drop to 10th on the competition ladder, and they will be hoping Shaun Johnson can put his error-filled performance behind him and steer the side to a crucial victory. An almost full strength Manly will hope to close the five-point gap on the injury ravaged Rabbitohs as well as warding off arch rivals Melbourne, who also reside on 29 points. 

Broncos v Dragons:

After knocking South Sydney off their pedestal and having the Bulldogs 12 points down at one point on Monday night, St George were shaping up as the NRL's giant killers. However, a pathetic defensive effort in the final 15 minutes of their round 21 clash sent them crashing right back to 14th place. The single shining light for the Dragons' 2013 campaign has been mid-season acquisition Josh Dugan; the only Red V player who will be hoping to repeat his Monday night performance when they face a desperate Brisbane Broncos side at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday. Anthony Griffin would have emphasised the importance of an 80 minute effort, after his team allowed the Knights to claw their way back in the dying stages last week. Griffin will also be looking for new halfback Ben Hunt to continue his impressive form. 

Panthers v Cowboys:

It's pretty safe to say that whoever loses this match will not play finals in 2013; especially in the case of the Cowboys, who currently sit 13th on 18 points. The Panthers will look to snap a three-match heavy losing streak to move off 20 points and back into finals contention from 11th position. North Queensland will hope to repeat the near-perfect performance which helped them topple ladder-leaders South Sydney last weekend. However, a tough road trip to the foot of the mountains will make this extremely difficult. But, as we witnessed, teams can be very unpredictable when they don't have a coach.

Bulldogs v Titans:

The Bulldogs showed on Monday night that without Ben Barba they struggle to find their brilliant best. It was only the Dragons' poor defence that allowed them to score 31 unanswered points in the final quarter of the match; a feat they would struggle to repeat against higher quality opposition.  The Titans, on the other hand, were impressive last week, despite struggling to put the knife into a dismal Tigers outfit. They will again be without key trio Will Zillman, Albert Kelly and Jamal Idris for a tough trip to ANZ Stadium. 


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Crusaders backs top NZ music charts

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 07 Agustus 2013 | 14.23

Ellis is the leader of the C-City Brothers, New Zealand's next pop icons. Source: AP

They may have missed out on another Super Rugby title but for five Crusaders players success has been found off the field in the very unlikely location of the New Zealand iTunes charts.

The "C-City Brothers" or Crusaders backs Willie Heinz, Andy Ellis, Israel Dagg, Telusa Veainu and Robbie Fruean have hit No.1 with their single, Never Walk Away.

The song is approaching 75,000 views on YouTube while all proceeds are being donated to the New Zealand Cystic Fibrosis Association.

"All of us are thrilled at the enthusiasm of the New Zealand public for this song and also for helping raise money for Cystic Fibrosis," band leader Ellis said.

"We have had a lot of invitations to perform as a boy band. We are considering our options at the moment and seriously considering our future."

Dagg is the only member of the group included in the All Blacks' Rugby Championship squad while the other four have the ITM Cup to focus on away from the microphone.


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Eels face uphill battle to rebuild

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Struggling ... Parramatta Eels face an uphill battle to rebuild. Source:FoxSports

JUST this week rugby league legend Tommy Raudonikis rated the Parramatta Eels side that plays the Tigers on Friday night as one of the worst sides of the modern era.

There's no doubting the Eels are on their knees at the moment. The political in-fighting and turnover of senior executives is symptomatic of an organization that's lost its way.

I've no doubt the current Eels board has much love for the Club, but despite best intentions, appear to have been consumed by the blue and gold political beast.

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Since Steve Sharp and co. came into power, the highly regarded Ken Edwards has resigned and league's club boss Bob Bentley was sacked. Senior director Sid Kelly also stepped down while in the background former chairman, Ray Spagnolo, is angling for a seat on the board and the shadow of former CEO Denis Fitzgerald looms large.

Truth be told, this latest boardroom drama and churn of key staff, is just history repeating.

In the last six years there have been five CEO's at the Eels - Fitzgerald, Andrew Hill, Bob Bentley, Paul Osborne and Ken Edwards - and three coaches – Daniel Anderson, Steve Kearney and Ricky Stuart (I have not included Brad Arthur).

It also seems that every time a new board or administrator rolls into town, promises of a brighter future soon follow.

The current Eels administration has recently been promoting to the Parramatta faithful a 'turning of the corner' in 2015. Yep, you heard right, the club have boldly predicted slightly better times 18 months down the track!

This means that even after getting the wooden spoon last year, and almost certainly this year, Eels supporters can expect more mediocrity in 2014.

This 'short term pain, long term maybe gain' philosophy from the Eels begs two big questions.

Firstly: is it fair that a club take the long term view but still expect fans to cough up their hard earned cash to buy memberships and corporate facilities in the interim?

The vast majority of season members across our 16 NRL clubs live on the average wage, fighting tooth and nail to invest in their team. The reasons they buy are many, but one thing is for certain, they all expect a return.

That return usually comes in the form of a weekend escape, a chance to forget their troubles and be entertained by a group of young men chasing goals that excite.

By telling your fan base that another below average season is what they'll be buying next year, I'm wondering how you could expect them to buy at all.

Perhaps the Eels marketing machine is just being realistic? Hopefully their members don't return serve with a dose of reality themselves!

Secondly: why should fans ever have to expect that lean times can't be turned around quickly?

See, in rugby league we have a free trade system that allows a player to go to the club of his choice should that club be able to afford his services. No restrictions on movement except the term of the players current contract (most times) and the financial constraints of the salary cap (nearly always).

The issue therefore is not in the availability of these players but rather your ability to attract them to your organization.

If we're to learn anything from the Sydney Roosters 2013 season, surely it's that clever senior recruitment in the playing and coaching ranks can bring instant success.

After finishing 11th in 2011 and 13th in 2012 the tri-colors appointed Trent Robinson as coach and signed marquee players Sonny-Bill Williams, Michael Jennings, Luke O'Donnell and James Maloney.

Forget how or why these people arrived at Bondi, they're there, and that's all that counts. And because they arrived, the Roosters are now short odds to win a premiership in 2013.

(Note to all: I tipped the Roosters to finish in the bottom four this year because I believed a premiership couldn't be manufactured over one pre-season. Medicine taken!)

This is why Ricky Stuart went so hard for Australian front rowers Matt Scott and James Tamou while Phil Gould made a huge offer for the brilliant, Jonathan Thurston. Great players win comps and make clubs.

Remember the roster when last Parramatta won a grand final?

And herein lies the issue for the Eels; with all the rubbish going on at the top, how the hell do they expect to attract quality talent to the club?

Players are very perceptive and their managers rat cunning, both can smell an unstable working environment a mile off. And while the stench around the Eels politicized administration drifts through the game, getting the right people may prove difficult.

I find this current mess terribly disappointing for Parramatta fans, but where there's light there's hope.

If this current board can show itself to be competent and stable heading into Christmas then a good start has been made.

On top of that, Steve Sharp needs to get out of the papers and focus on appointing a proven CEO, hopefully one with a passion for rugby league but most definitely a strong enough personality to take the politics out of Parramatta.

Any and all positive change in the front office will flow down to Ricky Stuart and his players, and even more importantly, out into the market place.

The quicker this happens the sooner success will arrive at Parramatta.

And the best part?

When finals footy is no longer some far off land but rather a short term, realistic goal, all those that invest in the Eels will feel good about how and where they spend their cash.

Over to you Steve Sharp.


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Hunter has Tiger in his sights

Written By Unknown on Selasa, 06 Agustus 2013 | 14.23

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Vintage ... Tiger Woods hits form before the season's last Major. Source: SAM GREENWOOD / AFP

TIGER Woods was back to his dominating best on the weekend as he blitzed the field by 7 shots en-route to winning his 8th WGC Bridgestone Invitational.

It was Tigers 5th win of the season and now takes his PGA tour tally to 79 victories just three short of the record which is held by the late great Sam Snead.

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The world number one will headline the field this week as they head to Rochester in New York for the final Major of the year, the PGA Championship, which is commonly referred to as "glory's last shot".

Just like last week at the WGC Event, Tiger will be the short priced favorite and you'd have to like his chances again although he has had a dry spell of not winning a major which dates back to the US Open in 2008 when he defeated Rocco Mediate in extra time.

He has consistently put himself in contention in the majors of late but just hasn't closed one out. I feel that he just looks like he lacks the total belief in his swing when he is under pressure.

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The Oak Hill Country Club will play host to the tournament this week and what a history this place has. Some of the winners include Lee Trevino who won a US Open in 1968 as did Curtis Strange in 1989 while Jack Nicklaus won a PGA around here in 1980. And if you cast your minds back to the 2003 PGA Championship it was Shaun Micheel who claimed his one and only major when he hit a magnificent 7 iron to 2 inches at the 72nd hole to defeat Chad Campbell.

The New York area has been inundated with rain the past couple of months so that means the rough will be thick and gnarly. So if you find yourself missing fairways you will be punished.

So with that in mind and fairways hit being a premium I like two players. The first is Hunter Mahan. This guy when he is on hits more fairways than anyone. He has been in great form of late and I reckon with the birth of his first child just on 9 days ago he will be feeling on top of the world.

The second is Henrik Stenson who has found something special in his game of late. He was runner up at the Open behind Phil Mickelson and then again came second on the weekend, this time to Tiger at the Bridgestone. He might just go one better this week.

A dark horse for mine is Zach Johnson. He has finished in the top 6 in his last three events and just like Mahan finds fairway after fairway.

Over the years we've had four Aussie winners of the PGA with Jim Ferrier winning in 1947, David Graham (1979), Wayne Grady (1990) and the last of our boys to win the PGA was Steve Elkington in 1995 at Riviera. There are 8 in the field this week and I thought I would give you a quick look at their form heading in:

First up is Jason Day who will be making his 4th appearance at a PGA Championship...it's been an outstanding year in the Majors for the 25 year old who posted top 3 results at both the US Open and Masters...the Queenslander has gone off the boil of late... in his last 18 rounds he's only broken 70 twice...

Marcus Fraser makes his second trip to a PGA Championship with the Aussie finishing in a share of 66th last year at Kiawah Island...The Victorian is coming into the event having missed three of his last four cuts including the latest in Reno on the weekend.

Matt Jones has been in great form of late with the Sydney-sider posting top ten's in his last two events....he has played one previous PGA Championship that resulted in a missed cut in 2010.

After a super start to the season which included a tie for 4th at the Masters Marc Leishman has cooled off considerably...the boy from Warrnambool has hit an iceberg of late missing three of his last four cuts.

Geoff Ogilvy gets a start in his 10th PGA after finishing inside the top 12 last year...it's been hard to pick his form this season with so many indifferent performances....his last start was a missed cut at the Canadian Open.

Brett Rumford received a sponsors invite on the back of winning two European Tour events earlier in the season...since then though it's been slim pickings for the world number 85 and last week at the Bridgestone finished near last at 12 over par.

After his disappointing loss at the Open Championship Adam Scott bounced back with a solid tie for 14th at the WGC  Bridgestone last week ... he is always a chance if he is mentally right ... so let's hope that's the case this week.

And finally, this will be John Senden's 8th showing at the PGA Championship with a tie for 4th in 2007 at Southern Hills his best result. The burly Queenslander needs to find something heading in after missing his last three cuts.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Customs seize Gallen's phone

Paul Gallen had his phone confiscated temporarily by Customs officials as he returned to Sydney following the clash against New Zealand Warriors at the weekend. Source: Gregg Porteous / DailyTelegraph

THE ASADA investigation has taken a dramatic twist, with customs officials temporarily seizing the phone of Sharks skipper Paul Gallen at Sydney airport on Sunday.

The Daily Telegraph can reveal Gallen was stopped by border protection agents while passing through a customs check as the team returned from their victory in Auckland the previous day.

According to well-placed sources at Cronulla, Gallen's mobile phone was taken for a short period before being returned to the player.

Gallen is one of 11 Sharks players who've received interview notices from ASADA. As part of its investigation the government body has been examining text messages sent between players, club officials and other figures.

He last week sought separate legal representation from his team mates, all of whom will be questioned over the club's 2011 supplement program.

The interviews with Sharks players began today.

A Cronulla spokesman today confirmed that Gallen was subjected to a "more rigorous" search from Customs, which held up the team bus.

The spokesman, however, was unable to confirm whether Gallen's phone was temporarily seized as part of the search.

The Daily Telegraph is awaiting comment from Gallen and Australian Customs.
 


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One more slip-up and we're out

Written By Unknown on Senin, 05 Agustus 2013 | 14.23

Jarrod Mullen has warned the Knights to lift their game. Source: Tony Feder / Getty Images

A BATTERED and bruised Jarrod Mullen admits Newcastle can ill-afford to lose another game if they are to secure a spot in the NRL finals this season.

The Knights playmaker injured the knee he underwent surgery on in April during Friday's gripping 18-all draw with Brisbane and is also sporting an eye injury he picked up tackling Sydney Roosters' back-rower Boyd Cordner eight days ago.

Mullen sat out of training on Monday but said he'd be fit to face Cronulla this Saturday - the first of four difficult fixtures in their final five rounds of the season.

After taking on the Sharks the Knights host premiers Melbourne before trips to North Queensland and Brisbane with cellar-dwelling Parramatta rounding off the season at Hunter Stadium.

Wayne Bennett's men are clinging to eighth spot, one point ahead of Gold Coast and the Warriors, and Mullen acknowledged it will be a massive test to make the finals.

"Every game is crucial now for us," Mullen said.

"One to four are already in there but between five and 10 on the ladder it's very congested.

"We have some crucial games coming up. Cronulla are always hard down there then we have Melbourne at home.

"It really doesn't get any easier so if we're there in the eight come finals time it is anybody's game."

Mullen missed four field goals against the Broncos as the Knights desperately tried to snare a much-needed two points.

Despite fighting back from 18-10 down with 12 minutes remaining to grab a share of the spoils, Mullen echoed the sentiments of Bennett by calling for golden point to be scrapped.

"Both teams have come up to play 80 minutes of football and if they can't be separated after that then fans should go home knowing their team got one point each," he said.

"But extra time is crazy. There are no penalties in golden point, everyone is always standing offside.

"But that is no excuse, at the crucial time me or somebody else has to step up and take responsibility ...

"We need to start practising some field goals."

The Knights could be handed a big boost with skipper Kurt Gidley in line for a return to action against the Sharks.

Gidley has been sidelined since May after damaging foot ligaments but trained with his teammates on Monday.

"I think he's ready to go," Mullen said. 


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Rest of comp left for dead

WE'VE had rivalry round, multicultural round and women's round - now welcome to Lefty Round.

Round 20 is a celebration of the AFL's left-footers - past and present.

A centrepiece will be the selection of a Lefties Team of the Century by experts including Mike Sheahan and the Herald Sun's Jon Anderson.

The team will be named on Fox Footy's League Teams on Thursday night.

The round coincides with international left-handers day on August 13 - yes, that is a real thing.

The round is the brainchild of Fox Footy and does not carry the official stamp of the AFL - and has created plenty of enthusiasm, and some angst, among fans.

Fittingly, the round will be kicked off by Hawthorn and St Kilda on Friday night. The Hawks have more left-footers on their list (16) than any other side. The Saints are No.3 on the list with 11.

LEFT-FOOTERS ON YOUR CLUB'S LIST

ADELAIDE: Rory Atkins, Mitchell Grigg, Nick Joyce, Sam Shaw, Bernie Vince.

BRISBANE: Callum Bartlett (rookie), Rohan Bewick, Simon Black, Jack Crisp, Mitch Golby, Ashley McGrath, Niall McKeever, Richard Newell (rookie), Jared Polec, Daniel Rich, Patrick Wearden

CARLTON: Jeremy Laidler, Troy Menzel, Rhys O'Keeffe (rookie), Kade Simpson, Robert Warnock, Matthew Watson

COLLINGWOOD: Nathan Brown, Marty Clarke, Travis Cloke, Alan Didak, Ben Johnson, Ben Kennedy, Scott Pendlebury, Ben Reid, Alan Toovey, Marley Williams, Peter Yagmoor (rookie), Clinton Young.

ESSENDON: Stewart Crameri, Lauchlan Dalgleish (rookie), Joe Daniher, Alwyn Davey, Will Hams, Dyson Heppell, Michael Hibberd, Heath Hocking, David Myers, Nick O'Brien.

FREMANTLE: Jesse Crichton, Hayden Crozier, Zac Dawson, Stephen Hill, Josh Mellington, Danyle Pearce, Nick Suban, Michael Walters.

GEELONG: Josh Hunt, Jordan Murdoch, James Podsiadly, Harry Taylor

GOLD COAST: Jared Brennan, Jarrod Harbrow, Kyal Horsley, Brandon Matera, Steven May, Trent McKenzie, Leigh Osborne (rookie), Henry Schade, Seb Tape.

GWS: Josh Bruce, Tomas Bugg, Jeremy Cameron, Josh Growden, Rhys Palmer, Tom Scully, Dom Tyson, Gerald Ugle.

HAWTHORN: Jed Anderson, Grant Birchall, Taylor Duryea, Xavier Ellis, Lance Franklin, Josh Gibson, Brent Guerra, Luke Hodge, Jordan Lewis, Luke Lowden, Cyril Rioli, Jarryd Roughead, Ryan Schoenmakers, Isaac Smith, Matthew Suckling.

MELBOURNE: Dom Barry, Shannon Byrnes, Aaron Davey, Mark Jamar, Dean Kent, Jack Viney.

NORTH MELBOURNE: Todd Goldstein, Levi Greenwood, Ben Jacobs, Brad McKenzie, Aaron Mullett, Will Sierakowski, Lindsay Thomas, Mason Wood.

PORT ADELAIDE: Brett Ebert, Campbell Heath, Jack Hombsch, Tom Logan, Ben Newton, Jasper Pittard, Daniel Stewart, Chad Wingard.

RICHMOND: Matthew Arnot, Jake Batchelor, Troy Chaplin, Matt Dea, Shaun Grigg, Bachar Houli, Chris Knights, Chris Newman, Brett O'Hanlon.

ST KILDA: David Armitage, Nick Dal Santo, Sam Gilbert, James Gwilt, Tom Hickey, Clinton Jones, Brodie Murdoch, Sebastian Ross, Adam Schneider, Jimmy Webster, Spencer White.

SYDNEY: Daniel Hannebery, Brandon Jack (rookies), Kieren Jack, Nick Malceski, Martin Mattner, Tom Mitchell, Ryan O'Keefe, Dane Rampe, Nick Smith

WEST COAST: Brad Dick, Andrew Gaff, Ashton Hams, Fraser McInnes, Murray Newman, Mark Nicoski, Matt Priddis, Simon Tunbridge (rookie)

WESTERN BULLDOGS: Brett Goodes, Christian Howard, Lachie Hunter, Tom Liberatore, Nick Lower, Jack Macrae, Josh Prudden, Clay Smith, Jake Stringer

Brownlow lefties
1948: Bill Morris (Richmond)
1950: Allan Ruthven (Fitzroy)
1959, 63, 68: Bob Skilton (South Melbourne)
1965-66, 71: Ian Stewart (St Kilda/Richmond)
1989: Paul Couch (Geelong)
1990: Tony Liberatore (Footscray)
2000: Shane Woewodin (Melbourne)
2002: Simon Black (Brisbane)

Norm Smith lefties
1982: Maurice Rioli (Richmond)
1985: Simon Madden (Essendon)
1990: Tony Shaw (Collingwood)
1991: Paul Dear (Hawthorn)
1993: Michael Long (Essendon)
1999: Shannon Grant (North Melbourne)
2001: Shaun Hart (Brisbane)
2003: Simon Black (Brisbane)
2008: Luke Hodge (Hawthorn)
2010: Scott Pendlebury (Collingwood)
2012: Ryan O'Keefe (Sydney)

Coleman lefties
1897: Jack Leith (Melbourne)
1900, 03: Teddy Lockwood (Geelong/Collingwood)
1920: George Bayliss (Richmond)
1921: Cliff Rankin (Geelong)
1923: Greg Stockdale (Essendon)
1941: Sel Murray (North Melbourne)
1955: Noel Rayson (Geelong)
2000-01, 03: Matthew Lloyd (Essendon)
2004-05: Fraser Gehrig (St Kilda)
2008, 2011-12: Lance Franklin (Hawthorn)


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Surging Swans see off plucky Bulldogs

Written By Unknown on Minggu, 04 Agustus 2013 | 14.23

Sydney Swans overcome a solid challenge from Western Bulldogs. Source: JOE CASTRO / AAP

DEFENDING premiers Sydney Swans are within half a game of top spot after a testing 35-point AFL win over the Western Bulldogs.

4.1 (25) Q1 5.1 (31)
7.3 (45) Q2 10.3 (63)
11.4 (70) Q3 15.6 (96)
15.9 (99) Q4 21.8 (134)

Jarrad Grant

3

Kurt Tippett

6

Tom Campbell

2

Craig Bird

2

Tory Dickson

2

Jude Bolton

2

Daniel Giansiracusa

2

Kieren Jack

2

Koby Stevens

2

Jed Lamb

2

Dylan Addison

1

Shane Mumford

2

Luke Dahlhaus

1

Heath Grundy

1

Lachlan Hunter

1

Brandon Jack

1

Thomas Young

1

Ryan O'Keefe

1

Luke Parker

1

Jesse White

1

Kurt Tippett again showed it was worth Sydney waiting half the season for him to play, as he kicked six goals in the 21.8 (134) to 15.9 (99) win on Sunday at Etihad Stadium.

The Bulldogs pressed the Swans hard and Sydney at times looked in trouble on a weekend where fellow premiership favourites Hawthorn and Geelong suffered upset losses.

But Sydney kicked the last three goals of the third term and that was enough to kill off the challenge.

Kieren Jack and Dan Hannebery continued their strong midfield form for the Swans and Jarrad McVeigh was solid across half-back.

Young Bulldogs midfielder Mitch Wallis ran with Josh Kennedy and impressively negated the Swans clearance specialist.

Bulldogs key forward Tom Campbell marked and goalled twice in the opening three minutes to give his side a strong start.

Sydney kicked the next four and looked ready to take control, but the 'Dogs had come to scrap.peThey kicked two of the next three goals to only trail by six points at quarter-time.

The Bulldogs controlled the game for much of the third term, but too many times they kicked inside 50 and were picked off by the Swans' defence.

Tory Dickson kicked a stunning goal on the run to bring the 'Dogs to within 11 points, but Jude Bolton replied quickly and Sydney led by three goals at the main break.

The game continued to see-saw in the third term and the umpires deserve credit for letting a hard-fought contest unfold with minimal interruption.

As the Bulldogs continued to press, they came up with a strong candidate for goal of the year.

Daniel Cross' snap bounced to Campbell, who tapped the ball down to Daniel Giansiracusa.

The Bulldogs' substitute volleyed the ball out of mid-air for a goal that would have done any soccer striker proud.

More importantly, it brought the 'Dogs to within eight points at 24 minutes.

But typically, the reigning premiers rose to the challenge.

Heath Grundy and Shane Mumford goalled and then Tippett soccered another through just before the three-quarter time siren to break the Bulldogs' hearts.

Sydney led by 26 points at the last break and kicked the first two goals of the last term to ensure the win.


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Dominant Titans tame timid Tigers

Greg Bird of the Titans celebrates a try by Jamie Dowling. Source: Matt Roberts / Getty Images

Gold Coast ended their NRL losing run in style with a comprehensive 36-6 victory over Wests Tigers on Sunday.

6

Tries

1

Jamie Dowling 6' Liam Fulton 9'
David Mead 13'
Brad Takairangi 31'
Dave Taylor 37'
Mark Minichiello 67'
Luke O'Dwyer 76'

5

Conversions

1

Aidan Sezer 7' Benji Marshall 10'
Aidan Sezer 15'
Aidan Sezer 39'
Aidan Sezer 68'
Aidan Sezer 77'

1

Penalties

0

Aidan Sezer 36'

Playing in perfect conditions at Skilled Park, the Titans revived their top eight aspirations and snapped a four-match losing streak with the 30-point win over the hapless Tigers.

The victory lifts the Titans to ninth spot, just one point out of the eight with five games to go.

Playing a makeshift team which featured Ashley Harrison at five-eighth and David Mead at fullback, the Titans set-up the win with a dominant first half.

Jamie Dowling, Mead, Brad Takairangi and Dave Taylor all scored tries as the Titans opened up an 18-point halftime lead.

Second-half tries to Mark Minichiello and Luke O'Dwyer sealed the points for the Titans, while the Tigers only joy was a four-pointer to Liam Fulton inside the first 10 minutes.

The only downside for the Titans was an incident midway through the second half where Greg Bird was placed on report for a late hit on Braith Anasta.

The Tigers' woes were compounded with hooker Robbie Farah failing to appear for the second half after dislocating a knuckle in his left hand late in the opening term.


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