John Grant, man up and call me

John Grant gets out of a car on the way to a CEO's meeting. Source: Gregg Porteous / DailyTelegraph

IF anybody finds ARLC commissioner John Grant, can they tell him to give me a call?

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Grant found my NRL360 co-host Ben Ikin on Thursday and told him he was less than happy with my questioning of NRL boss Dave Smith on Wednesday night's show, and at my slings and arrows at then Canterbury CEO Todd Greenberg's handling of what we know as The Barba Affair.

"Why don't you ring him?" Ikin said, drawn into a tiff that was none of his doing.

"No, you tell him," said the commissioner. Seriously? This is what the game has become? The NRL still don't get it.

Let me say this: In the week since the NRL cleared Greenberg and the Bulldogs of any wrongdoing I learned more about what happened than I did in the seven months before. And, so, let me say that from my point of view the Bulldogs' handling of the situation, under the circumstances, appears entirely correct.

From what I've been told, they could not have done more for Barba or his partner Ainslee Currie given all considerations.

And Grant and some of his cohorts can't seem to see that it has moved beyond this, and something greater is at stake.

The problem is Greenberg's press conference, for which he initially received and accepted so much praise. He was asked directly if Barba was stood down for domestic violence. The first word out of his mouth was: "No."

He told us Barba was stood down for gambling and alcohol issues, when we now know they were the lesser part of a major breakdown. Some would say that was not just shielding the truth but deliberately misleading. Why can't an educated, successful man like Grant understand this?

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Maybe he won't call because he doesn't want to be asked a couple of questions about the independent inquiry and the commission's eagerness to move on. Should Greenberg have revealed the depth of Barba's problems that day? No. That is no longer the issue.

So, instead of being deliberately misleading, what should Greenberg have said? I think he should have said Barba's problems were serious and he would not discuss details. And once rumours of an alleged domestic assault spread, journalists had every right to ask questions.

Why? Not to embarrass Barba or his family but to ensure the clubs and the league are acting truthfully and with integrity, because they hadn't been told the truth. Of course, the Barba case is hardly the only incident this season that should worry fans.

Just this week the Roosters were linked to an organised crime figure in relation to the drugs scandal. Don't fans deserve to know the game is doing everything to ensure organised crime doesn't infiltrate the game?

The drug scandal itself has dogged the game all year.

Don't we deserve to know everything is being done to eradicate it from our game, rather than just say nothing and risk the saga being smothered to avoid headlines?

Somewhere along the line the blind trust that the game will always do what's right for us, the fans, has been broken.

The Greenberg press conference was merely an example but, instead of addressing that, and the fact it is now even more important given Greenberg's hiring as the NRL head of football, it appears that, right up to the commissioner, they're still trying to harangue anyone that dares question their version.

Give me a call, John. I know you've got the number.

***

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THE genius of Wayne Bennett is in a Newcastle coffee shop. There sits Willie Mason and any number of young Newcastle players, the conversation lighter than the espressos they drink.

When Bennett signed Mason last year, after Wests Tigers deemed him too much trouble, some wondered whether the zen-like influence of Bennett would prevail.

Then Bennett wandered along one day early on and asked Mason if he could put his wing over a few of the younger players in the squad.

Get together for a coffee with them, he said. So the coffee club was born, and several days a week the players get together to shoot the breeze and laugh, Willie most often holding court.

It helped feed a spirit within the team that few clubs reach, and drives them into tonight's grand final qualifier.

The coffee club was never intended to keep the young players on the straight and narrow. It was for Mason, and has worked a treat.

***

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IS one of USA's greatest sporting moments not one of Australia's great sporting moments?

As we all know now, when Team USA came from 8-1 down to take the America's Cup 9-8 it was skippered by Australian Jimmy Spithill, who not only has a great surname but had the able support of three other Aussies on board.

It was the largest contingent of one nation aboard. And the fact that Australians dominated the crew has some suggesting that Australia can take some ownership of the remarkable win, which will become particularly interesting when the nominations for the big sports awards are drawn up.

Should Spithill and his fellow Aussies be there? When the famous victory was covered on ESPN's Sportscenter there was no mention of the Australian influence. It was U-S-A, all the way!

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But then the Yanks have always been insular. For those arguing it is an Australian moment, though, let me ask what the difference is between Spithill, employed to skipper the Team USA boat, and Aussie swim coaches Ken Wood and Denis Cotterell, who both were paid to train Chinese swimmers at recent Olympics?

Both were widely criticised for taking those jobs, "selling our secret" it was portrayed, and based on the improvements in China's swim team could have mounted a reasonable dossier for coach of the year honours. Of course, it was never considered.

Aussie David Saker is another. Saker coached England's bowlers during the recent Ashes series, when they dismantled Australia's top order.

Before the London Olympics there was substantial moaning about the Aussie brain drain to England as a multitude of Australian coaches took up positions beside the pool, at the velodrome, at the regatta, helping Great Britain to its most successful Games ever.

No mention of what a wonderful job they did.

***

A GOOD WEEK FOR

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SANDOR Earl presented as wholly credible in his interview with Karl Stefanovic, and, I believe, presented a side to the drugs controversy we had been yet to see. The soon-to-be-banned winger showed how an honest interview can actually be far more beneficial to public perception, unlike those firing barbs and hiding behind their lawyers at the moment.

A ROUGH WEEK FOR

TEAM New Zealand consigned itself to infamy when it dropped its marbles in San Francisco. This will never be forgot.

DON'T MISS

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SLAMMIN' Sam premieres on Fox Sports 1 next Friday (7pm), but NRL players don't need that to know Sam Burgess is comfortable in front of the camera. When Stave Matai dropped brother George at Brookvale Oval earlier this year, the elder Burgess rushed in with a protective air. Glenn Stewart saw it differently. "That's right Sam, while the cameras are on," he said.

HERE'S HOPING

HAWTHORN have been great underachievers in recent years. Some label them the dirtiest word in sport ... chokers. Today's grand final won't prove anyone wrong, but a poor result will have many convinced they're right.

CHILL PILLS

Wayne Bennett's inability to give an "ironclad" guarantee he will be in Newcastle next year is an example of his cool work. Suddenly, a whole lot of clubs are reassessing their coaching plans, exactly as Bennett intended.

ANGRY PILLS

Jake White tossed his toys out of the bassinet after missing the Wallabies coaching job. White is talented, successful, all of the above, but does he really bring anything that can't be found in Australia? 

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Redemption as Hawks beat Dockers

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HAWTHORN have held off a Fremantle comeback threat to clinch their second AFL premiership in six years.

The Hawks won 11.11 (77) to 8.14 (62) in front of 100,007 fans.

Brian Lake starred in defence, to more than justify his recruitment from the Western Bulldogs last off-season, captain Luke Hodge again showed himself one of the AFL's great big-game performers and Jack Gunston followed his preliminary final heroics with another four-goal haul.

It delivered Hawthorn their first flag since 2008 - making two-time premiership players of 10 members of Saturday's side, including Shaun Burgoyne, who won a flag with Port Adelaide in 2004.

One of those is Lance Franklin, who was again quiet with one goal in what might have been his last game in Hawthorn colours, as he considers a big-money move to Greater Western Sydney.

It also ensured the Hawks would shake the underachievers tag, after near misses in the past two years - upset by 10 points by Sydney in last year's grand final and falling three points short of Collingwood in a preliminary final in 2011.

It's another grand final defeat for Dockers coach Ross Lyon, who led St Kilda to the 2009-10 deciders for two losses and a draw, with Fremantle's former Saints defender Zac Dawson sharing Lyon's record of four grand finals without a win.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Souths v Manly - What you need to know

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"(Manly) resorted to the chequebook and lured player after player away from Souths to "Millionaire's Row" on the northern peninsula. The beginning of the longest premiership drought in our history can be laid squarely at the feet of Manly."

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This extract from the Russell Crowe-commissioned Book of Feuds succinctly demonstrates the long-running animosity between the Rabbitohs and Sea Eagles.

That bad blood will boil over tonight as South Sydney attempt to qualify for their first grand final since 1971 against the very foe they blame for their 42-year premiership drought.

WHAT, WHERE AND WHEN: Preliminary Final, Rabbitohs v Sea Eagles, ANZ Stadium, 7.45pm

FORM GUIDE: The Rabbitohs have won both games against the Sea Eagles this season. The first was a 20-12 victory at Brookvale Oval in Round 7 and the second a 22-10 triumph at Bluetongue Stadium in Round 23. The first encounter was a spiteful affair, with Rabbitohs coach Michael Maguire left fuming over the lack of action taken against Richie Fa'aoso for separate spear tackles on Greg Inglis. Inglis exacted revenge in the Round 23 encounter, inspiring the Rabbitohs to a come-from-behind 12-point victory.

MATCH ODDS: Rabbitohs $1.40, Sea Eagles $3.00 (correct as at 3pm 27/9)

TALE OF THE TAPE: MANLY'S Brett Stewart is a certain starter, with the brilliant fullback passed fit to make his return from a hamstring injury. The Sea Eagles will benefit greatly by his return, with their attack undoubtedly more dangerous with Stewart in the side.

Despite his quality performances at the back in the absence of Stewart, rookie Peter Hiku will drop out of the 17-man squad. Jamie Lyon (leg) and Anthony Watmough (knee) have also been cleared and are in no doubt to play.

The Rabbitohs are fresh from their week off and are without any injury concerns. Coach Michael Maguire says his team have been able to rest any niggling injuries and are preparing for the toughest match of their season.

There is some mail that Maguire could promote young half Luke Keary onto the bench, knowing what happened in last year's preliminary final when Adam Reynolds was forced from the field with injury.

KEY MATCH-UPS:

Greg Inglis v Brett Stewart
THE last time these two teams met, Greg Inglis returned from a lengthy stint on the sidelines to lead his under siege side to victory. Can Brett Stewart do the same and elevate a struggling Manly outfit to its fourth grand final in seven years? The stats say he can.

The Sea Eagles have won 13 of the 17 games Stewart has featured in this season, while losing five and drawing one of the nine matches from which he was absent.

His elusive speed, timing and sublime ball skills make him incredibly difficult for defensive lines to contain - much the same as the South Sydney custodian. However, Greg Inglis has one distinct advantage over Stewart - his kick returns.

The Bunnies' No. 1 is a much strong runner and, as a result of his 105kg frame, is able to bend defensive lines back when returning the ball, subsequently putting his team on the front foot from the opening tackle of the set. Stewart, on the other hand, is lighter, and is therefore driven back more often.

Adam Reynolds v Daly Cherry-Evans
DALY Cherry-Evans has stoked the fire this week by suggesting Adam Reynolds is not ready for State of Origin. As a result, Reynolds will be on a mission to prove he is still the No. 1 prodigy halfback in the game, and will be keen to show he is just as ready to stake his claim in the Origin arena as Cherry-Evans, who debuted in Game 2 this year.

The last time they met, Reynolds outplayed his opposite, turning the game in South Sydney's favour with two pin-point kicks at crucial moments. However, Cherry-Evans has momentum and good form on his side after putting in a stunning performance last week.

The 24-year-old scored a try, forced two drop outs and provided two try assists to lead Manly to the narrowest of victories over Cronulla. Statistically, they are very different players. DCE is very damaging with the ball in hand when close to the line, whilst Reynolds is known for his ability to force a repeat set.

John Sutton v Kieran Foran
THESE two men have very contrasting styles of play, but are equally valuable to their respective sides. John Sutton is a damaging runner on the left hand side for South Sydney. The defence is always in two minds as to whether he will pass the ball or use his large frame and terrific footwork to try and bust through.

He averages almost double the metres of Foran per game as well as accruing nine more line breaks and 15 more offloads this season. Foran however, is a far better playmaker.

The Sea Eagles five-eighth has 23 try assists to Sutton's 11 and has forced 19 drop outs to Sutton's 13. Their combination with their respective halves partners will be crucial to the outcome of this preliminary final.

Sam Burgess v Anthony Watmough
AGGRESSION, fast feet, hard running and big hits are what you get from these two week in and week out – so don't expect Friday's match to be any different. Both men are specialists at punching over the advantage line, getting a quick play the ball and subsequently putting their team on the front foot.

Watch them attempt to get the better of each other by rushing out of the line and putting a stop to the other's momentum.

However, this head-to-head is as much a mental battle as it is physical. Both men are noted hot-heads and occasionally let their desire to win get the better of their judgement, resulting in a silly error or penalty.

Therefore, expect plenty of niggle between the two as they attempt to get under the other's skin and in turn, grab some cheap field position.

STATS AMAZING:

As the Book of Feuds stats show, Manly inflicted a "curse" on the Rabbitohs when they started recruiting their players post 1971. Manly have become a dominant force since and only in recent seasons are South Sydney now considered a powerhouse once again.

Since 1972 Manly have played in a total of 66 finals matches with South Sydney only playing 16. Manly have made the finals a total of 31 times since '72 and the Rabbitohs 10. (23 times Manly have made the finals and South Sydney missed out)

Manly have not won a wooden spoon in that time and on five occasions the Rabbitohs have finished dead last.

The longest streak since '72 is Manly's 11 straight wins between 1993 and '98 while the Rabbitohs despite their problem did manage six consecutive wins between 1984 and 1987.

Overall the Rabbitohs have won an astonishing 20 premierships between 1908 and 1971. The cupboard has been bare since then. Manly, by contrast, is looking to qualify for its fourth grand final since 2007. This is their ninth consecutive finals series appearance.

The Sea Eagles, however, have a poor record against the Rabbitohs in finals. They have won just three of ten games against Souths.

WHAT THEY SAID
"It's a good yard-stick for us (this game) to find out our improvements. I believe we've improved a hell of a lot right throughout this season compared to where we were this time last year. We get to measure ourselves, but the experience and understanding – a couple of players have played in rep teams now – hopefully we can take that into Friday's game." Michael Maguire

"A lot of people are saying that we're tired but when you get out there, you don't think about those sorts of things. We've probably looked a little tired because of a few injuries but we will be fine. We will come out fresh on Friday and hopefully put in our best performance of the year." Jamie Lyon
 

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Panic Room: Spangher in the works

Make: CanonModel: Canon EOS-1D XDate/Time: 2013:09:27 15:16:16 Source: Salpigtidis George / HeraldSun

THE best last-minute selection news and betting late mail.

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WHISPERS

Fremantle defender Michael Johnson is the most likely player to appear in any "late change" alerts before the bounce tomorrow.

The All-Australian backman was wearing a compression bandage on his right calf at training and did very little in the warm-up before the media was locked out of the session.

He returned last week from a six-week layoff and was getting heavy treatment from trainers on the boundary line in the last quarter.

"Michael is a bit more of a concern but he is certainly in the 22 and I would be very, very surprised if he doesn't play," coach Ross Lyon said today.

Every Grand Final player rated

Hawks must smash Crowley: Mooney

"We have been fortunate in that respect but we have brought over three emergencies, as we always do.

"There is a little bit of work to do ... but anything can come from left field. Until they get to the line, anything is possible. I have learnt that. We will stay vigilant but as I said, we're pretty comfortable.

Lyon declared Luke McPharlin (also carrying a sore calf) and Chris Mayne (back) certain starters.

The Hawks also have a couple of sore players with Brent Guerra nursing a corked calf and Paul Puopolo an ankle injury after last week's bruising preliminary final.

Both are expected to take the field tomorrow, but Max Bailey might be watching the weather forecast closely.

Fox Footy expert Gerard Healy believes if the clouds open Alastair Clarkson could be tempted to leave out Bailey and bring in some extra speed - or old-fashioned utility Matt Spangher.

"If it's wet and they're throwing the ball in the air no one will beat Sandilands, he's just too tall. So you could argue it's better to play Roughead in the ruck and get the extra benefit around the ground," Healy said in his live chat on SuperFooty.

"Spangher played well in the VFL grand final and he could come in for Bailey because he could cover for Roughead if he helps out in the ruck.

"So he will be hoping it absolutely buckets down between now and Saturday, in fact Spangher might be doing a rain dance right now."

MONEY TALKS

There is an astounding variety of bets available for one match. With a close game expected there isn't much value in head-to-head betting, so why not splash out on some unusual punts like:

Norm Smith winner to be over 182cm: $1.40 with sportsbet.com.au

If it pours it could bring the little guys into the game but the last small forward to win was Kevin Bartlett in 1980, which isn't a great omen for Hayden Ballantyne or Michael Walters. Cyril Rioli  (177cm) could be the danger. If you really like the tall blokes, back Aaron Sandilands to win it outright at $18.

Brad Sewell to win most disposals in group B: $3.50 with tab.com.au

The clear standout in the group and has a proven Grand Final record. Could easily rack up 25+ touches especially on a heavy track, which should have him well ahead of the likes of Shaun Burgoyne ($4) and Isaac Smith ($9).

Luke Breust to kick the most goals: $15 with sportingbet.com.au

Should get three or four shots and in a tight game that might put him ahead of the pack - if he can kick straight. Other options include Jack Gunston and Michael Walters (both $8).

First goalkicker/Norm Smith double: sportsbet.com.au

You would have to be a genuis to get this right, but the payout makes it tempting. How about Luke Breust and Sam Mitchell at $151?

SUPERCOACH ALERT

SuperCoach Finals is the perfect way to add some spice to your Grand Final gathering.

Even if you haven't signed up for the new game - or if you dropped off after the first weekend of September - it only takes five minutes to pick a side for the big day.

You can pick 11 players - three backmen, four midfielders, one ruckman and three forwards - from the two competing sides.

Pick a captain for triple points and a vice-captain who scores double - then track your scores live all day at LiveHQ.

CLICK HERE TO START PICKING YOUR TEAM NOW

Cyril Rioli gets the support of Hawk fans who braved bad weather to see the team train for the Grand Final. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: HeraldSun

ON NOTICE

Cyril Rioli

Rioli has waited 12 months for this day. After a stinker in last year's Grand Final he escaped to Darwin, but he will be hoping this year's trip is more of a celebration. He has battled an ankle injury for much of the second half of the season and had little impact in his return against the Cats last week. But we know he only needs a few touches to turn the game on its head and - as he showed in 2008 - he can do it when it counts. The stage is set.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Victoria names Siddle for Ryobi Cup

Siddle will re-join the Bushrangers for the Ryobi Cup. Source: Michael Dodge / News Limited

VICTORIA has included Test quick Peter Siddle in a 14-man squad for their first three games in the upcoming Ryobi Cup domestic one-day cricket tournament.

Victoria will play Tasmania at Sydney's Bankstown Oval on Tuesday, followed by clashes with South Australia (October 4) and NSW (October 7).

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The 46-Test veteran Siddle hasn't played a domestic one-dayer since February 2012 and his last one-day international appearance was in 2010.

Victoria will be led by new skipper Matthew Wade, who has been replaced in Australia's ODI side by NSW gloveman Brad Haddin for the tour of India in October.

"We're excited to have (spinner) Jon Holland back from extended injury and Peter Siddle, who is keen to explore opportunities to further represent his country in the World Cup next summer," Victoria coach Greg Shipperd said.
Legspinner and Test hopeful Fawad Ahmed is also in Victoria's squad.

Glenn Maxwell, Clint McKay, Dan Christian and former Victoria skipper Cameron White are all unavailable due to Champions League Twenty20 commitments, while pacemen James Pattinson and Jayde Herrick are injured.

Victorian squad: Matthew Wade (capt), Fawad Ahmed, Scott Boland, Aaron Finch, Peter Handscomb, John Hastings, Michael Hill, Jon Holland, David Hussey, Alexander Keath, Rob Quiney, Will Sheridan, Peter Siddle, Marcus Stoinis.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Hoy to jet in for Tour Down Under

Sir Chris Hoy will visit Adelaide as a guest of the Tour Down Under. Source: Andrew Milligan / AAP

THE most successful track cyclist in Olympic history, Sir Chris Hoy, is coming to Adelaide in January as a guest of the Santos Tour Down Under.

News Limited can reveal the 11-time world champion and six-time Olympic gold medallist will be honoured at the TDU legend's night dinner on Saturday, January 25 and an official announcement will be made tomorrow.

Hoy, 37, retired in April after an international cycling career spanning more than 20 years.

The Scottish superstar won his first Olympic gold medal in the 1km time trial at the 2004 Athens Olympics, made it an historic hat-trick of gold medals in the sprint, team sprint and keirin in Beijing in 2008, then won gold in the team sprint and keirin at his home Games in London last year.

Hoy said he was "excited" to be visiting the TDU, which runs from January 19-26 and is the first event on the 2014 WorldTour calendar.

"Like millions of other people, I've enjoyed it on television but attending will be a real thrill," he said.

"Cycling has grown from a minority sport into one loved the world over. Events such as the Santos Tour Down Under have helped expand people's understanding and support for cycling and it's great to have the chance to see the race for myself."

Hoy will be a guest speaker at the legend's night dinner which in the past has honoured cycling greats including Bernard Hinault, Eddy Merckx and Anna Meares.

SA Tourism Minister Leon Bignell said it would be "an honour" to welcome Hoy to Adelaide for the 16th edition of the TDU.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Sydney Swans 2013 Report Card

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DO THE Swans get a pass for the 2012 season? See our verdict and have your say.

SNAPSHOT.
Wins: 16
Losses: 8
Draws: 1
Ladder position: 4th
%: 132.5

WHAT WENT RIGHT.
Another year, another top-four finish and finals campaign for the ever competitive Swans. They won nine of their first 12 games before adding arguably the game's premier forward Kurt Tippett and winning seven of their last nine.

WHAT WENT WRONG.
Injuries crueled Sydney's finals campaign before it even began. Premiership players Lewis Roberts-Thomson, Lewis Jetta, Adam Goodes and Sam Reid missed huge chunks of the year, then Rhyce Shaw went down with a season-ending knee injury to further jeopardise the Swans' chances of a premiership defence.

Champion ... Jude Bolton is chaired off the ground. Source: Getty Images

BEST AND FAIREST.
Likely to be a battle between the Swans' all-star midfield with Kieren Jack, Dan Hannebery and Josh Kennedy all having outstanding seasons, although Kennedy perhaps faded a little in the second half of the season. Jarrad McVeigh dominated off a half-back flank and must be a big chance.

THE LIST.
Elite: Kurt Tippett, Adam Goodes, Josh Kennedy, Dan Hannebery, Kieren Jack
Big improvers: Mike Pyke, Dan Hannebery, Dane Rampe
Going, going: Tommy Walsh
Gone: Jude Bolton, Mitch Morton, Marty Mattner
Trade bait: Jesse White

Goals ... Kurt Tippett missed 13 games but still kicked 35 goals. Source: News Limited

WHAT THEY NEED.
A fit and injury-free playing group will be top of the Swans wish list in 2014. Adam Goodes finally showing his age and managing to play just 12 games means the Swans need to plan for life without him. And they'll need to develop their second-tier midfielders, with a lack of depth a potential Achilles heel come finals time. Another tall defender to back up Heath Grundy and Ted Richards wouldn't go astray.

STATS THAT MATTER.
CLUB LEADERS
Kicks: Nick Malceski (429)
Handballs: Josh Kennedy (421)
Contested possessions: Josh Kennedy (410)
Marks: Jarrad McVeigh (102)
Contested marks: Mike Pyke (52)
Clearances: Josh Kennedy (189)
Inside-50s: Kieren Jack (145)
Rebound-50s: Nick Malceski (190)
Frees for: Ryan O'Keefe (40)
Frees against: Shane Mumford (38)
Goals: Kurt Tippett (35)
Goal assists: Kieren Jack (27)
Time on ground: Ted Richards 2978 mins)
Players used: 35

Ruck ... Mike Pyke proved his worth to the Swans in 2013. Source: News Limited

TEAM STATS (Average + Rank)
Disposals: 369.0 (5th)
Contested possession differential: +7.5 (5th)
Tackles: 71.7 (1st)
Clearance differential: +3.0 (4th)
Inside-50 differential: +4.4 (5th)
Scoring % inside 50: 48.6% (=12th)
Av points for: 102.0 (4th)
Av points against: 77.0 (2nd)
Av winning margin: 47   
Av losing margin: 26   

DID YOU KNOW?
Kieren Jack kicked the ball inside 50 113 times this season - the most of any player in the AFL. The Swans retained possession from 51.3 per cent of these kicks - well above the AFL average.

14.24 | 0 komentar | Read More

AFL, NRL wary of more GF calamities

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THE AFL is going home grown and the NRL is sexing up their act with their focus for grand final entertainment.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou will be hoping Hunters and Collectors and Birds of Tokyo are more palatable than the epic fail of Meat Loaf – whose out of tune butchering of Bat out of Hell caused Twitter to blow up and was neatly described as "trainwrecktastic" by one.

The NRL is turning to Ricky Martin. There are reports that the homosexual pop star has asked choreographers to "butch up" his act for the game's big day.

While both codes will be hoping it all goes off with a hit, in reality it's the stinkers that live longest in the memory.

Check out five famous final fails, compiled by the Back Page Live crew.

14.24 | 0 komentar | Read More

Genia backed for starting recall

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Former Wallabies centre Tim Horan has called for Will Genia's return to the run-on side despite Nic White's impressive showing against Argentina in Perth.

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White replaced Genia in the run-on side and played all 80 minutes in the one-point win over the Pumas, a performance that pleased Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie.

Horan backed McKenzie's decision to start White in Perth but said Genia should be reinstated for this weekend's clash with the Springboks in Cape Town.

"Ewen McKenzie wants some depth in those positions (halves) and we haven't had a lot of depth at halfback for a long, long time," Horan said.

"I think it was important for Nic White to get a game but I'd certainly be picking Will Genia to start the team."

McKenzie hinted White would be given another opportunity following his performance in Perth, with his strong kicking and excellent game management also drawing praise from stand-in skipper Ben Mowen.

The Wallabies will name their side on Thursday with James Horwill all but certain to make his return from a hamstring injury while Joe Tomane, Chris Feauai-Sautia and Peter Betham are battling to fill the wing positions vacated by Nick Cummins and James O'Connor.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Shaw, Pies to explore trade options

Trade ... Heath Shaw could be on his way out of Collingwood. Source: Quinn Rooney / Getty Images

HEATH Shaw is on the open market, with the star defender and Collingwood agreeing to consider a trade for the 27-year-old.

Shaw's manager Ben Niall has confirmed he will explore his options, after the Herald Sun's exclusive report last week.

Both the Pies and Shaw are open to him staying at the Pies if no suitable trade can be arranged.

But Shaw, who has two years on his contract, is likely to draw a host of suitors given he is one of the competition's elite defenders.

After further meetings this week Collingwood has become open to the possibility of a trade for Shaw.

Niall said a fresh start for Shaw might be ideal, given a turbulent season where the Pies were dumped early from the finals.

He said Shaw knows he must change his behaviour and method of feedback after he became a disruptive team meeting presence.

''He is exploring the possibilities. He is option to discussins and maybe a fresh start is a good thing,'' he told the Herald Sun.

''Is there a scenario which works for both Heath and also works for Collingwood?

''He has got the feedback, he accept it and he will change. He has to do it no matter where he goes.''
 

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Dees miss priority pick

Melbourne doesn't look likely to receive a priority pick. Source: DAVID CROSLING / AAP

THE AFL Commission has rejected a request from Melbourne to receive a priority pick at this year's national draft.

The AFL announced on Monday afternoon that no club would be granted special compensation at the 2013 draft, meaning the struggling Demons won't gain any extra compensation under the league's Special Assistance Rule.

Melbourne's first pick will be selection 2 - after Greater Western Sydney - with Paul Roos' men to then receive a second-round pick as normal.

The rival 17 clubs were in violent opposition to the prospect of Melbourne receiving a priority pick before or after the draft's first round.

When rejecting the Demons' request for an extra pick, the Commission had considered Melbourne's recent on-field performances, coaching, recruiting, administrative programs and the amount of young talent on the club's list.

The 2014 debut of dominant 17-year-old Jesse Hogan also likely counted against Melbourne.

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Earlier this month The Herald Sun revealed that Melbourne had put in an official submission for a priority pick, believing it would help them swiftly turn about their on-field fortunes.

While Melbourne's pick was the most controversial topic to be discussed, the club's financial future was also in focus.

The AFL announced that it would grant the Demons a one-off payment of $1.45 million.

Of that $1.45m amount, $1 million is a grant and $450,000 is subject to the club raising an equal amount of money.

The club also has the ability to borrow an additional $500,000 on its facility, which the AFL has guaranteed.

Melbourne is also likely to declare a loss of $2 million or more this year.

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Knights momentum scares Roosters

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SYDNEY Roosters skipper Anthony Minichiello admits Newcastle's momentum is a major concern for the competition favourites heading into Saturday night's preliminary final at Allianz Stadium.

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The Knights have emerged as the giant-killers of the NRL finals, having taken out both of last year's grand finalists in the opening two weeks of the finals - and they now have their sight set on the big scalp of the Roosters.

"It's (momentum) a big factor because they're playing with a bit of confidence, momentum going into the final," Minichiello said.

"They've won a lot of games now and we're coming off a break.

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"We watched the game (the Knights' win over Melbourne) and Newcastle deserved to win. They played just that little bit better on the night."

Asked for the secret to the Knights' last season surge, Minichiello said: "They're very well coached, you know what Wayne Bennett's like as a coach, I've experienced his coaching, he's a great coach, one of the best of all time.

"They're hitting their straps at the right time - we have to make sure that we're prepared well for Saturday night."

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The week off has given the Roosters a chance to freshen up and give their forward stocks a boost, with Minichiello rating NSW Origin backrower Boyd Cordner a decent chance of returning from ankle surgery for the clash.

Cordner hasn't played since round 25, and at the time was considered an outside chance of returning for the grand final if the Roosters went that far.

But his rehabilitation has gone better than expected, with Minichiello revealing he wouldn't be surprised if the young forward is back on deck on Saturday night.

"He's looking okay," Minichiello said.

"I haven't spoken to him in detail today. I think he's had a run and he seems okay.

"It'll be a boost if he can come back."

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Hawks can't afford yips in GF

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The Hawks got a bad case of the yips on grand final day last year when they kicked 11.15 and the disease struck again on Friday night, Fox Sports AFL correspondent Julian de Stoop writes.

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In The Penthouse

Hawthorn

Finally the Hawks broke the Kennett curse. And full credit to them given they looked in all sorts of trouble at three quarter time when they trailed by 20 points.

But led by Sam Mitchell and Shaun Burgoyne Hawthorn dominated the final term kicking 4.8 to 1.7 to win by five points. It was the same margin they beat Adelaide by in last year's preliminary final. The year before they lost to Collingwood by three points.

The Hawks have been outstanding in final quarters this season, winning 19 of 24.

Overall it was another cracking game between these two great rivals and let's hope the two clubs can keep serving up these sort of contests for a few more years yet.

Sam Mitchell

Does this man ever play a bad game?

On a night when a host of Hawthorn stars including Lance Franklin, Jarryd Roughead, Luke Hodge and Cyril Rioli all struggled, the former skipper put on a masterclass - particularly at the centre bounce.

Mitchell had nine centre clearances (a record for a preliminary or Grand Final) to go with his 38 disposals.

For much of the game Mitchell went head to head with Steve Johnson but life won't be as easy in the grand final when he confronts the "human glove" Ryan Crowley

Steve Johnson

What a great big-game performer this man is.

Johnson won the Norm Smith Medal in 2007, after kicking six goals against Port Adelaide. He kicked four goals in the 2011 grand final despite carrying a serious knee injury into the game and on Friday night he nearly kicked his Cats into another grand final kicking four goals and gathering 32 disposals.

Dockers Defensive Pressure

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The Dockers have been renowned for their defensive pressure under Ross Lyon but in the first half against the Swans they took it to another level.

Spurred on by a packed Paterson's Stadium, Fremantle didn't give the reigning premiers one second to breath as they set up a match-winning 38-point lead at half-time.

The Dockers played their game in their own half, had 18 shots to four and in the second term Sydney didn't get their first possession inside their own forward 50 until the 25-minute mark.

Chris Mayne led the way on the night with a career high 13 tackles and if they can produce a performance like that for four quarters against the Hawks they may just snare their first premiership.

Nat Fyfe

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With his mop of blonde hair and fearless attack at the ball, Nat Fyfe has often been compared to James Hird, and in this finals series he's playing very much like the former Essendon champion.

Fyfe took Norm Smith Medallist Ryan O'Keefe to the cleaners gathering 27 disposals and kicking two goals.

The 22 year-old was also one of the best on ground in the Dockers qualifying final win over Geelong.

This time next year he may be in the top three players in the game.

In The Outhouse

Brendan Whitecross

In a footballing sense this is a tragedy.

For the second year in a row Whitecross will miss the grand final with a serious knee injury. Cruelly, the midfielder suffered the injury in the dying minutes of the Hawks' thrilling win over the Cats.

Whitecross has a fantastic attitude, is a very popular member of the club and everyone in football hopes he comes back bigger and better towards the end of next season.

Hawks yips

The Hawks got a bad case of the yips on grand final day last year when they kicked 11.15 and the disease struck again on Friday night.

Hawthorn kicked just 14 goals from 32 scoring shots to win by just five points despite having 10 more scoring shots than Geelong.

Luke Breust has struggled with his set shot conversion all season and did so again kicking 1.3.

Against the stingy Dockers, the Hawks will have to take their chances.

Cyril Rioli advantage call

The decision to pay advantage to Cyril Rioli on Friday night when it was clear he didn't know he had been paid the mark was a shocker.

In fairness it was a rare error in a high pressure game that was umpired well but if the Hawks had lost narrowly the Rioli decision would have been a big talking point.

Dustin Martin contract saga

Memo to Dustin Martin. Get rid of Ralph Carr as your manager immediately.

The young Tiger stars now looks likely to stay at Richmond with interest from other clubs waning by the day. If he stays at Punt Road Martin is likely to playing for about $80,000 less per season than he has been over the past two years.

Martin wanted to sign three weeks ago but Carr held out for more money. He was poorly handled by the manager but if the troubled star stays at Tigerland it's been a masterstroke by the Richmond hierarchy.

Farewell

If Martin wants a new manager he should look no further than retiring Swans great Jude Bolton.

The dual premiership player is moving into player management after his 325-game career came to an end on Saturday night.

Bolton was given a fitting send off with the Dockers forming a guard of honour.

Bolton has been all class on and off the field and retires having laid more tackles than any other player in the game's history.

There could also be some changes at Geelong this week. Josh Hunt and Joel Corey have more than likely played their last games while the futures of Paul Chapman and James Podsiadly remain up in the air.

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Watson helps Royals start in style

Shane Watson contributed with bat and ball for Rajasthan against Mumbai. Source: AAP

AUSTRALIAN all-rounder Shane Watson continued his good form as Rajasthan Royals claimed victory with two balls to spare in the opening match of the Champions League T20 tournament in India.

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The Royals wrapped up the win over Mumbai Indians in Jaipur with seven wickets remaining, Stuart Binny bringing up the winning runs with a towering six off Aussie bowler Nathan Coulter-Nile.

Indian teenagar Sanju Samson top-scored for Rajasthan with a well composed 54 that belied his tender years, with Watson and Binny (27 each) combining to get the Royals home.

Mumbai, featuring Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar at the top of the order, managed to reach 7-142 batting first, with Rohit Sharma (44) top-scoring.

Tendulkar managed just 15 off 17 balls, while West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard provided plenty of fireworks with his big-hitting late in the innings.

Mitchell Johnson, playing for Mumbai, finished with unflattering figures of 0-38 from his four overs, although the left-armer did trouble Samson and was unlucky not to have the 18-year-old given out lbw early in his innings.

The tournament continues on Sunday when Australian side Brisbane Heat takes on Trinidad & Tobago in Ranchi.

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