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Hunt draws with Bigfoot in UFC thriller

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 07 Desember 2013 | 14.23

Silva pressures Hunt. Picture: Adam Head. Source: Adam Head / News Limited

<b></b>AN incredible five-round, 25-minute fight between Aussie Mark Hunt (9-8-1 MMA, 4-2-1 UFC) and Brazilian Antonio Silva (18-5-1 MMA, 2-2-1 UFC) exceeded all expectations of a main event bout at UFC Fight Night 33 in Brisbane today.

But when it came down to picking a winner, two of the three judges just couldn't do it.

Those two officials scored the bout 47-47 while the third judge had Hunt winning 48-47.

The fight night was the UFC's Brisbane debut and was a major success as a sold-out crowd (12,000 people) witnessed one of the greatest heavyweight mixed-martial-arts fights of all time.

When UFC announcer Bruce Buffer announced the decision both fighters - their hair died red by blood at end of the brutal encounter - were shocked.

From the opening bell they slugged it out putting on an unbelievable show and the first two rounds were close.

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In the third, Hunt knocked down Silva with a perfect right hand and then swarmed on the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu blackbelt. He spent two-and-a-half-minutes in half-guard pounding on Silva until the bell sounded.

In the fourth Silva got a takedown of his own and hammered Hunt to the point of exhaustion, giving the Aussie precious seconds to recuperate so he could see out the round.

Silva connects with Hunt. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images. Source: Getty Images

In the championship round, Hunt came out swinging and had Silva on wobbly legs until referee Steve Perceval stopped the fight to have a doctor assess a cut on Silva's head (sustained earlier from a short Hunt elbow).

With a quick break Silva was able to compose himself and then went on the attack.

In the last 30 seconds both men depended on each other to keep standing as they swung for a last-chance knockout.

Huge cheers for the two filled the Brisbane Entertainment Centre at the end of the fight.

UFC commentator Kenny Florian said the brawl would go down in heavyweight history as a "legendary fight".

Hunt cuts up Silva with a short elbow. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images. Source: Getty Images

Although the draw was better than a loss for Hunt, the rest of the card's results did not favour the home town athletes.

Of the seven Australian fighters only Perth heavyweight Soa Palelei won, with a brutal knockout of veteran Pat Barry.

Several Wallabies and Brisbane Broncos players were in attendance at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, including Quade Cooper, Ben Tapuai, Josh McGuire and Andrew McCullough.

Mauricio Rua (22-8 MMA, 6-6 UFC) def. James Te Huna (17-6 MMA, 5-3 UFC)

MIXED Martial Arts legend Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua is back.

The experienced veteran did away with his younger Aussie opponent James Te Huna with a brutal counter left-hook.

Te Huna was out could immediately and his limp body dropped to the ground 1 minute and three seconds into the first round.

"I was timing his entrances so I could connect," Rua said after the fight. "Te Huna is a tough guy."

Te Huna was considered the favourite in the fight - the co-main event on the Brisbane card.

Shogun Rua knocks out James Te Huna. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images. Source: Getty Images

Ryan Bader (16-4 MMA, 9-4 UFC) def. Anthony Perosh (14-8 MMA, 4-5 UFC)

AUSSIE Anthony Perosh, dripping in blood, showed heart to go the distance with young gun Ryan Bader in Brisbane.

Perosh spent most of the fight defending Bader's fierce punches off his back.

The American came very close to finishing the fight towards the end of the second round, but Perosh powered through despite heavy blows to the head.

Exhausted, Perosh tried to go on the attack in the last round but again ended up on the floor with Bader on top.

The judges scored the fight in favour of Bader 30-27 30-27 30-26.

Anthony Perosh cops a huge elbow to the face in his fight against Ryan Bader. Picture: Adam Head. Source: News Limited

Soa Palelei (20-3 MMA, 2-1 UFC) def. Pat Barry (9-6 MMA, 5-7 UFC)

A HUGE TKO win over Pat Barry has skyrocketed Soa Palelei's standing in the UFC's heavyweight division.

At the sound of the opening bell Palelei wasted no time shooting in for a takedown on the much smaller Barry, but the American defended well off the cage.

Palelei's next takedown attempt however was successful, putting Barry on his back. There was a quick scare when Barry had a Kimura locked in, but the Aussie powered out of the hold and took mount.

He unleashed a barrage of heavy punches and referee Steve Perceval dove in to save Barry, ending the fight.

Soa Palelei celebrates his win over the wobbly Pat Barry. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images. Source: Getty Images

Clint Hester (9-3 MMA, 2-0 UFC) def Dylan Andrews (18-4 MMA, 2-1 UFC)

A DISLOCATED shoulder caused doctor's to pull Aussie Dylan Andrews from his fight with Clint Hester.

Their middleweight bout was full of big shots and reversals on the ground until Andrews popped out his shoulder.

In the second round the 34-year-old threw a big overhand right, but Hester's defence caused Andrews' arm to richocet in an awkward direction.

He barely lasted the second round and looked exhausted. During the last break of the fight the doctors assessed Andrews' injury and stopped the fight.

Hester was declared the winner by TKO.

A devastated Dylan Andrews slumps favouring his injured right shoulder. Picture: Adam Head. Source: News Limited

B ethe Correia (6-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) def. Julie Kedzie (16-12 MMA, 0-1 UFC)

BETHE Correia outpaced and outworked Greg Jackson fighter Julie Kedzie in the only female bout on the Brisbane card.

Correia was dangerous and relentless and it paid off with two of the three judges awarding her the split decision win 29-28.

The third judge scored Kedzie the winner 29-28.

Bethe Correia (yellow) blocks Julie Kedzie's kick. Picture: Adam Head. Source: News Limited

Takeya Mizugaki (19-7-2 MMA, 6-2 UFC) def. Nam Phan (18-11 MMA, 2-5 UFC)

TAKEYA Mizugaki and Nam Phan's bout was the third fight in Brisbane that went to the Judges' scorecards.

The Ultimate Fighter competitor Phan was no match for Mizugaki losing by unanimous decision.

The judges scored the bout 29-28 29-28 30-28.

Takeya Mizugaki (white trunks) in action during his win over Nam Phan. Picture: Adam Head. Source: News Limited

Caio Magalhaes (7-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC) def. Nick Ring (13-3 MMA, 3-3 UFC)

ANOTHER win has been added to Caio Magalhaes' record.

The 25-year-old Brazilian defeated Nick Ring by unanimous decision in Brisbane. The back-and-forth fight looked very close, but the judges' 29-28, 29-28, 29-28 scorecard told a different story.

Ring tired towards the end of the third round and kept looking for a takedown but Magalhaes blocked his every attempt.

Justin Scoggins (8-0 MMA, 1-0 UFC) def. Richie Vaculik (9-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC)

A CONTROVERSIAL call by referee Steve Perceval has handed Justin Scoggins a TKO win over Richie Vaculik.

Aussie Vaculik was on the back foot for the majority of the fight and was dominated on the ground.

Scoggins pressured Bra Boy Vaculik against the fence with knees and when on the ground, passed his guard to mount twice.

Vaculik escaped the first time but the second, with Scoggins' vicious punches raining down, referee Perceval had seen enough and called off the fight.

Vaculik immediately protested but it is unlikely the decision will be overturned.

Richie Vaculik (bottom) during his loss to American Justin Scoggins. Picture: Adam Head. Source: News Limited

Krzysztof Jotko (14-0 MMA, 1-0 UFC) def. Bruno Santos (13-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC)

KRZYSZTOF Jotko has won his first fight in the UFC taking a unanimous decision victory over Bruno Santos.

The pair, both fighting in the UFC's Octagon for the first time, went the distance in a scrap that was relatively even.

The judges scored the fight 29-28 29-28 30-27 giving the advantage to middleweight Jotko.

Krzysztof Jotko mounts Bruno Santos. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images. Source: Getty Images

Alex Garcia (11-1 MMA, 1-0 UFC) def. Ben Wall (7-1-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC)

BEN Wall is Australia's first casualty at UFC Fight Night 33.

The 24-year-old was knocked out by welterweight debutant Alex Garcia.

Garcia, who has now won five straight fights, caught the Aussie with a stiff uppercut as he shot in for a takedown.

The bout was stopped by referee Cameron Quinn in the first round.

Brisbane boy Ben Wall hits the ground after taking a big hit from Alex Garcia. Pictured Adam Head. Source: News Limited


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Live: Adelaide Test, day three

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DAVID Warner has chalked up his second fifty of the series as Australia has extended its lead to an imposing 484 runs in the second Ashes Test at Adelaide Oval.

After 26 overs in its second innings, Australia is 3-86 with Warner on 58 and Steve Smith on three.

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ULTIMATE ASHES QUIZ

THE ASHES IN PICTURES

The Aussies led by 398 runs after the first innings after bowling England out today for a dismal 172.

Captain Michael Clarke was the third Australian wicket to fall after tea, being bowled by Monty Panesar for 22.

Chris Rogers (2) and Shane Watson (0) earlier fell in the space of three balls to paceman Jimmy Anderson.

Sixteen overs are left in the day's play.

Check out our Match Centre for a full scoreboard, live stats and FoxTracker.

Follow the action in our live blog below, featuring videos, analysis and reaction from the ground and around the world. Join the conversation by leaving a comment in the blog below, or contact us @FoxCricketLive on Twitter.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Live: Adelaide Test day two

Written By Unknown on Jumat, 06 Desember 2013 | 14.23

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ENGLAND has already lost a wicket after being sent in to bat late on day two of the second Ashes Test at Adelaide Oval.

Mitchell Johnson picked up where he left off, knocking over England captain Alastair Cook with a brilliant ball that hit the off stump.

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ULTIMATE ASHES QUIZ

THE ASHES IN PICTURES

Australia had declared its first innings at 9-570, with paceman Ryan Harris unbeaten on 55 and spinner Nathan Lyon on 15.

The pair put on 41 for the 10th wicket before captain Michael Clarke closed the innings.

Harris' runs came from just 54 balls and included two sixes and six boundaries.

Australia smashed 12 sixes in its innings - a record for an Ashes Test.

Clarke top-scored with 148 today while keeper Brad Haddin made 118.

Australia's total was just 12 runs short of its best for an Ashes Test at Adelaide Oval, behind the 582 it managed in the 1920-21 series.

Check out our Match Centre for a full scoreboard, live stats and FoxTracker.

Follow the action in our live blog below, featuring videos, analysis and reaction from the ground and around the world. Get involved by leaving a comment at the top of the blog, or join the conversation on Twitter @FoxCricketLive.

England's Ian Bell, left, and teammate Matt Prior, centre, attempt a run out of Australia's Michael Clarke. Source: AP

Kyly Clarke celebrates as Michael Clarke of Australia reaches his century. Source: Getty Images

Graeme Swann of England attempts to field the ball from his own bowling. Source: Getty Images

Michael Clarke of Australia celebrates after reaching his century. Source: Getty Images

Michael Clarke celebrates after he scored his century. Source: Getty Images

Ben Stokes of England celebrates the wicket of Brad Haddin of Australia only to have the to have the decision reversed by the video umpire. Source: Getty Images

Graeme Swann of England is hit for six runs by Brad Haddin. Source: Getty Images

Michael Clarke hits past England captain Alastair Cook. Source: Getty Images

The Australian team stands for a minute silence in memory of Nelson Mandela during day two of the Second Ashes Test Match. Source: Getty Images

England observe a minutes silence in memory of former South African President Nelson Mandela ahead of day two of the Second Ashes Test. Source: Getty Images

Stuart Broad of England appeals for the wicket of Michael Clarke of Australia during day two of the Second Ashes Test. Source: Getty Images

Michael Clarke of Australia bats during day two of the Second Ashes Test. Source: Getty Images

James Anderson of England looks on during day two of the Second Ashes Test. Source: Getty Images

Monty Panesar of England bowls during day two of the Second Ashes Test. Source: Getty Images


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

How to fire up a red head

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CRICKET Confidential takes a different view of the second say of the second Ashes Test in Adelaide, as Australia seizes the initiative.

HOW TO FIRE UP A RED HEAD

Red heads are among the most misunderstood people on the planet.

Almost from birth they're cast as fiery, unyielding types who possess a lot of grit and determination but not a whole lot of talent.

It's an assessment that more often than not misses the mark, and that looks to be the case with England debutant Ben Stokes.

While we're yet to see him with the willow, the allrounder has shown plenty with the ball and he looked to have picked up just reward for his toil with the big scalp of Brad Haddin early on day two - his first Test wicket.

Having nicked behind, Haddin was on his way to the pavilion until the video screen showed the size 12 of Stokes just over the no ball line.

The red head went down, Haddin came back, and duly decided to test the young man's temperament.

Which leads us to...

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SLEDGE OF THE DAY

Having survived the rest of the Stokes over, Haddin thought he'd throw a rock at the wasps nest.

"Congratulations for getting your first Test wicket," he said with a sly grin.

It got the desired response from a very frustrated bowler, and Haddin went on to make an excellent hundred.

A SUPERB INNINGS

The Australian cricket writer Peter Lalor discusses the legacy of the late Nelson Mandela on world cricket.

The world was gripped by sadness when the great Nelson Mandela died overnight.

Not only was he a model for what the human spirit can overcome, he had a great appreciation for the role sport could play in bringing people together.

He was more a boxer than a cricketer, but he appreciated the sport and touched the lives of plenty of people within it.

It was great to see his life recognised by a minute's silence before play and there were plenty of cricket related Mandela anecdotes flying around during the day's play.

The reverence he was treated with by Brian Lara sums up his impact.

Upon meeting Mandela in 2005, Lara presented him with a prized bat with a written message on it, which said: "To a man that has inspired the world. I love you, president Mandela. My best wishes to a personal hero."

BEST FAN DRESS UP

WHAT ABOUT ME?

Glenn McGrath always hated it when his batting partner manipulated the bowling to keep him off strike.

No bowler ever complains when his side's in a position to declare, but this tweet from comedian Wil Anderson would perhaps sum up a fleeting thought in Aussie No.11 Nathan Lyon's head.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Dragons to unveil monster halfback

Written By Unknown on Kamis, 05 Desember 2013 | 14.23

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THE Big Red V is set to go up a size in 2014, with Kyle Stanley preparing to become the NRL's biggest halfback.

Having turned sizeable five-eighth Trent Barrett into a halfback for the joint-venture's inaugural campaign in 1999, St George Illawarra will go even bigger in the No.7 next season in the form of 188cm and 96kg Stanley.

Traditionally the domain of the smaller, crafty playmaker, Stanley is big enough to play in the back row.

It's safe to say there will be no easy targets in the Dragons defensive line next season, as Wollongong begins to resemble the land of the giants.

Josh Dugan has added to his frame at fullback, while Gerard Beale is looking to add bulk in his comeback from a ruptured knee, as he aims for a centre position.

Last season, Roosters' premiership winner Mitchell Pearce at 91kg was comfortably the biggest regular No.7 in the competition, with Newcastle playmaker Jarrod Mullen (93kg), most commonly lining up at five-eighth.

But 22-year-old Stanley, formerly a centre at NRL level, says he's primed for the challenge of taking charge of the Dragons side, having successfully emerged from the darkest place of his career - recovery from a fourth knee reconstruction.

``My body is in good shape and it's the strongest I've been since I came into grade,'' Stanley said.

``I definitely want to cement myself in the halves position. I just love getting my hands on the ball and I'm a ball runner as well.

``I've played mostly five-eighth (as a junior) so halfback is not a foreign position to me. I definitely know what's expected of me and (that I need to) steer the team around.''

Stanley is in competition with youngster Josh Drinkwater and Canberra recruit Sam Williams for the halfback role, with Melbourne signing Gareth Widdop almost certain of starting at five-eighth.

Having been ruled out for another full season in 2013, Stanley has provided a revealing insight into the pressures faced by injured young players who can struggle to cope with the heightened sense of responsibility in trying to provide for their families.

``I can't tell you how tough it was. It was the darkest place I've ever been,'' Stanley said.

``But I've come out the other side and I beat it.

``My fiance Niketa helped me through. I'm playing the game of rugby league for my son Koah ... and also the club, they've stuck by me through the tough times.''


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Live: Broad strikes before stumps

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AUSTRALIA has steadied the ship at Adelaide Oval, with captain Michael Clarke and George Bailey combining for a key crucial partnership for the fifth wicket.

Clarke (28) and Bailey (29), in just his second Test, took the score from a troublesome 4-174 to 4-222 with just over an hour to play on the opening day of the second Ashes Test against England.

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ULTIMATE ASHES QUIZ

ASHES GALLERY: SECOND TEST

Australia had lost 3-19 in 30 minutes before tea before the pair came together at the crease.

Both batsmen have given chances - Bailey on 10 to Monty Panesar and Clarke on 18 to Joe Root - but have survived some good, tight bowling to leave honours even late on day one.

England has yet to have a multiple wicket-taker, with Panesar, fellow spinner Graeme Swann and pacemen Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad grabbing one wicket each. - Andrew Capel

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NRL draw revealed: Arvo footy back

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 04 Desember 2013 | 14.23

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TRADITIONAL Saturday afternoon rugby league is back in a big way in season 2014.

Super Saturday footy has had a major overhaul in the NRL draw released today.

There will no longer be two Saturday night viewers choice games with the footy action due to start earlier in the day rather than the 5.30pm kick-off from recent seasons.

Eleven Saturday afternoon games, the majority to start at the traditional time of 3pm, have been scheduled for the first 20 rounds with the remaining dates for the final six rounds to be announced later in the season.

BLOG WITH BUZZ ON THIS YEAR'S DRAW

CLUB-BY-CLUB: HOW YOUR TEAM FARED

BLOCKBUSTERS: 10 GAMES YOU CAN'T MISS

BIGGEST WINNERS AND LOSERS FROM NRL DRAW

The 2014 season kicks off on Thursday, March 6 with a blockbuster between defending champions, the Roosters, and fellow powerhouses, the Rabbitohs, at ANZ Stadium.

New Broncos superstar signing Ben Barba will be up against his old club Canterbury, also at ANZ Stadium, on the Friday.

The first Saturday afternoon game of the season will be played the next day with the Panthers to host the Knights, Sea Eagles to clash with the Storm at Brookvale and the Raiders travel to Townsville to take on the Cowboys.

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Dragons tackle the Tigers and the Eels play the Warriors on Sunday with the Sharks hosting the Titans on Monday night to close out the round.

Premiers the Roosters will play the Manly Sea Eagles in a round four grand final rematch at Allianz Stadium on Friday, March 29.

Eels fans will be feeling slighted in the fact that Parramatta's clash with Ricky Stuart's Canberra will not happen until round 22 in Darwin.

Many teams will also be unhappy that the Broncos, who finished 12th in season 2013, start the year with 10 consecutive primetime Friday night games.

Fox Sports CEO Patrick Delany said increasing the number of Saturday afternoon games was one of his priorities.

"The Saturday afternoon time slot was popular in the past and we're confident this will be the case again,' Mr Delany said.

"We have no 7.30pm clashes next year which means fans can watch all three games live."

JOIN OUR SCRIBBLE CHAT BELOW

The Sea Eagles continue their epic rivalry with the Storm in round one. Source: News Limited

ROUND ONE

Thursday, Mar 6

Rabbitohs vs. Roosters, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 8:05pm

Friday, Mar 7

Bulldogs vs. Broncos, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 8.05pm

Saturday, Mar 8

Panthers vs. Knights, Centrebet Stadium, (FOX), 4:30pm

Sea Eagles vs. Storm, Brookvale Oval, (FOX), 7:00pm

Cowboys vs. Raiders, 1300Smiles Stadium, (FOX), 9:00pm (EDT), 8:00pm (local)

Sunday, Mar 9

Dragons vs. Tigers, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Eels vs. Warriors, Pirtek Stadium, (FOX), 6:30pm

Monday, Mar 10

Sharks vs. Titans, Remondis Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

ROUND TWO

Friday, Mar 14

Sea Eagles vs. Rabbitohs, Bluetongue Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Broncos vs. Cowboys, Suncorp Stadium, (NINE), 8:40pm (7:40pm Qld time)

Saturday, Mar 15

Warriors vs. Dragons, Eden Park, (FOX), 3:00pm (EDT), 5:00pm (local)

Storm vs. Panthers, AAMI Park, (FOX), 5:30pm

Roosters vs. Eels, Allianz Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Mar 16

Titans vs. Tigers, Robina Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm (EDT), 2:00pm (local)

Knights vs. Raiders, Hunter Stadium, (FOX), 6:30pm

Monday, Mar 17

Bulldogs vs. Sharks, ANZ Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

ROUND THREE

Friday, Mar 21

Tigers vs. Rabbitohs, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Broncos vs. Roosters, Suncorp Stadium, (NINE), 8:40pm (EDT), 7:40pm (local)

Saturday, Mar 22

Panthers vs. Bulldogs, Centrebet Stadium, (FOX), 4:30pm

Sharks vs. Dragons, Remondis Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

Cowboys vs. Warriors, 1300Smiles Stadium, (FOX), 9:00pm (EDT), 8:00pm (local)

Sunday, Mar 23

Sea Eagles vs. Eels, Brookvale Oval, (NINE), 3:00pm

Raiders vs. Titans, GIO Stadium, (FOX), 6:30pm

Monday, Mar 24

Storm vs. Knights, AAMI Park, (FOX), 7:00pm

ROUND FOUR

Friday, Mar 28

Roosters vs. Sea Eagles, Allianz Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Dragons vs. Broncos, WIN Stadium, (NINE), 8:00pm

Saturday, Mar 29

Warriors vs. Tigers, Westpac Stadium, Wellington, (FOX), 3.00pm (EDT), 5.00pm (local)

Eels vs. Panthers, Pirtek Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Bulldogs vs. Storm, NIB Stadium, Perth, (FOX), 7:30pm (EDT), 4:30pm (local)

Sunday, Mar 30

Rabbitohs vs. Raiders, ANZ Stadium, (FOX), 2:00pm

Knights vs. Sharks, Hunter Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Mar 31

Titans vs. Cowboys, Robina Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm (EDT), 6:30pm (local)

ROUND FIVE

Friday, Apr 4

Roosters vs. Bulldogs, Allianz Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Broncos vs. Eels, Suncorp Stadium, (NINE), 8:40pm (EDT), 7:40pm (local)

Saturday, Apr 5

Sharks vs. Warriors, Remondis Stadium, (FOX), 3:00pm

Panthers vs. Raiders, Centrebet Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Dragons vs. Rabbitohs, Sydney Cricket Ground, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Apr 6

Storm vs. Titans, AAMI Park, (FOX), 2:00pm

Tigers vs. Sea Eagles, Leichhardt Oval, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Apr 7

Cowboys vs. Knights, 1300Smiles Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

ROUND SIX

Friday, Apr 11

Panthers vs. Rabbitohs, Centrebet Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Titans vs. Broncos, Robina Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Saturday, Apr 12

Raiders vs. Knights, GIO Stadium, (FOX), 3:00pm

Eels vs. Roosters, Pirtek Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Tigers vs. Cowboys, Campbelltown Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Apr 13

Warriors vs. Bulldogs, Eden Park, (FOX), 2:00pm (EST), 4:00pm (local)

Sea Eagles vs. Sharks, Brookvale Oval, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Apr 14

Storm vs. Dragons, AAMI Park, (FOX), 7:00pm

Coach Wayne Bennett takes on his old club Brisbane in a Friday night blockbuster in round seven. Source: News Limited

ROUND SEVEN

Friday, Apr 18

Rabbitohs vs. Bulldogs, ANZ Stadium, (FOX), 4:00pm

Knights vs. Broncos, Hunter Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Sea Eagles vs. Cowboys, Brookvale Oval, (NINE), 7:40pm

Saturday, Apr 19

Dragons vs. Warriors,WIN Jubilee Oval, (FOX), 5:30pm

Sharks vs. Roosters, Remondis Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Apr 20

Raiders vs. Storm, GIO Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Apr 21

Eels vs. Tigers, ANZ Stadium, (FOX), 4:00pm

Panthers vs. Titans, Centrebet Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

ROUND EIGHT

Friday, Apr 25

Dragons vs. Roosters, Allianz Stadium, (NINE), 4:00pm

Storm vs. Warriors, AAMI Park, (FOX), 6:00pm

Broncos vs. Rabbitohs, Suncorp Stadium, (NINE), 8:00pm

Saturday, Apr 26

Sharks vs. Panthers, Remondis Stadium, (FOX), 3:00pm

Cowboys vs. Eels, 1300Smiles Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Bulldogs vs. Knights, ANZ Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Apr 27

Sea Eagles vs. Raiders, Brookvale Oval, (FOX), 2:00pm

Tigers vs. Titans, Leichhardt Oval, (NINE), 3:00pm

REP ROUND

Friday, 2 May

Australia Kangaroos v NZ Kiwis, TBC, 7.45pm

Sunday, 4 May

City v Country, Dubbo, 3.00pm

ROUND NINE

Friday, May 9

Roosters vs. Tigers, Allianz Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Cowboys vs. Broncos, 1300Smiles Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Saturday, May 10

Warriors vs. Raiders, Eden Park, (FOX), 3:00pm (EST), 5:00pm (local)

Titans vs. Rabbitohs, Robina Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Storm vs. Sea Eagles, AAMI Park, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, May 11

Knights vs. Panthers, Hunter Stadium, (FOX), 2:00pm

Dragons vs. Bulldogs, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, May 12

Eels vs. Sharks, Pirtek Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

ROUND 10

Friday, May 16

Rabbitohs vs. Storm, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Broncos vs. Titans, Suncorp Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Saturday, May 17

Eels vs. Dragons, Pirtek Stadium, (FOX), 3.00pm

Sharks vs. Tigers, Remondis Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Cowboys vs. Roosters, 1300Smiles Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, May 18

Raiders vs. Panthers, GIO Stadium, (FOX), 2:00pm

Bulldogs vs. Warriors, Waikato Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm4:00pm

Monday, May 19

Sea Eagles vs. Knights, Brookvale Oval, (FOX), 7:00pm

ROUND 11

Friday, May 23

Bulldogs vs. Roosters, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 7:45pm

Saturday, May 24

Titans vs. Warriors, Robina Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Tigers vs. Broncos, Campbelltown Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, May 25

Raiders vs. Cowboys, GIO Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, May 26

Sharks vs. Rabbitohs, Remondis Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

Byes: Dragons, Eels, Knights, Panthers, Sea Eagles, Storm

State of Origin 1: Wednesday, 28 May , QLD v NSW, Suncorp Stadium, 8.00pm

ROUND 12

Friday, May 30

Panthers vs. Eels, Centrebet Stadium, (NINE), 7:45pm

Saturday, May 31

Roosters vs. Raiders, Allianz Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Cowboys vs. Storm, 1300Smiles Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Jun 1

Warriors vs. Knights, Mt Smart Stadium, (FOX), 2:00pm (EST), 4:00pm (local)

Broncos vs. Sea Eagles, Suncorp Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Jun 2

Rabbitohs vs. Dragons, ANZ Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

Byes: Bulldogs, Sharks, Tigers, Titans

ROUND 13

Friday, Jun 6

Sea Eagles vs. Bulldogs, Brookvale Oval, (NINE), 7:40pm

Eels vs. Cowboys, Pirtek Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Saturday, Jun 7

Titans vs. Panthers, Robina Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Dragons vs. Sharks, WIN Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Rabbitohs vs. Warriors, NIB Stadium, Perth, (FOX), 9:30pm (EST), 7:30pm (local)

Sunday, Jun 8

Knights vs. Tigers, Hunter Stadium, (FOX), 2:00pm

Storm vs. Roosters, AAMI Park, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Jun 9

Raiders vs. Broncos, GIO Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

ROUND 14

Friday, Jun 13

Rabbitohs vs. Tigers, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 7:45pm

Saturday, Jun 14

Panthers vs. Dragons, Centrebet Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Roosters vs. Knights, Allianz Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Jun 15

Bulldogs vs. Eels, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Jun 16

Titans vs. Storm, Robina Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

Byes: Broncos, Cowboys, Raiders, Sea Eagles, Sharks, Warriors

State of Origin 2: Wednesday, 18 June , NSW v QLD, ANZ Stadium, 8.00pm

Jamie Soward plays his old club the Dragons for the first time in round 14. Source: News Limited

ROUND 15

Friday, Jun 20

Raiders vs. Bulldogs, GIO Stadium, (NINE), 7:45pm

Saturday, Jun 21

Warriors vs. Broncos, Mt Smart Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm (EST), 7:30pm (local)

Sharks vs. Sea Eagles, Remondis Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Jun 22

Storm vs. Eels, AAMI Park, (FOX), 2:00pm

Titans vs. Dragons, Robina Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Jun 23

Knights vs. Cowboys, Hunter Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

Byes: Panthers, Rabbitohs, Roosters, Tigers

ROUND 16

Friday, Jun 27

Sea Eagles vs. Roosters, Brookvale Oval, (NINE), 7:40pm

Broncos vs. Sharks, Suncorp Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Saturday, Jun 28

Tigers vs. Raiders, Campbelltown Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Cowboys vs. Rabbitohs, 1300Smiles Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Jun 29

Warriors vs. Panthers, Mt Smart Stadium, (FOX), 2:00pm (EST), 4:00pm (local)

Eels vs. Knights, Pirtek Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Jun 30

Dragons vs. Storm, WIN Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

Byes: Bulldogs, Titans

ROUND 17

Friday, Jul 4

Bulldogs vs. Sea Eagles, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 7:45pm

Saturday, Jul 5

Dragons vs. Cowboys, WIN Jubilee Oval, (FOX), 5:30pm

Roosters vs. Sharks, Allianz Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Jul 6

Tigers vs. Panthers, Leichhardt Oval, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Jul 7

Rabbitohs vs. Titans, ANZ Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

Byes: Broncos, Eels, Knights, Raiders, Storm, Warriors

State of Origin 3: Wednesday, 9 July , QLD v NSW, Suncorp Stadium, 8.00pm

Suncorp Stadium will host the potential Origin decider. Source: Getty Images

ROUND 18

Friday, Jul 11

Sea Eagles vs. Tigers, Brookvale Oval, (NINE), 7:45pm

Saturday, Jul 12

Warriors vs. Eels, Mt Smart Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm (EST), 7:30pm (local)

Storm vs. Bulldogs, AAMI Park, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Jul 13

Titans vs. Raiders, Robina Stadium, (FOX), 2:00pm

Sharks vs. Knights, Remondis Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Jul 14

Panthers vs. Broncos, Centrebet Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

Byes: Cowboys, Dragons, Rabbitohs, Roosters

ROUND 19

Friday, Jul 18

Sharks vs. Cowboys, Remondis Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Eels vs. Rabbitohs, Pirtek Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Saturday, Jul 19

Roosters vs. Panthers, Allianz Stadium, (FOX), 3.00pm

Storm vs. Raiders, AAMI Park, (FOX), 5:30pm

Broncos vs. Warriors, Suncorp Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Jul 20

Knights vs. Titans, Hunter Stadium, (FOX), 2:00pm

Tigers vs. Bulldogs, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Jul 21

Dragons vs. Sea Eagles, WIN Jubilee Oval, (FOX), 7:00pm

ROUND 20

Friday, Jul 25

Knights vs. Roosters, Hunter Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Broncos vs. Storm, Suncorp Stadium, (NINE), 7:40pm

Saturday, Jul 26

Panthers vs. Sharks, Centrebet Stadium, (FOX), 3.00pm

Titans vs. Eels, Robina Stadium, (FOX), 5:30pm

Bulldogs vs. Cowboys, ANZ Stadium, (FOX), 7:30pm

Sunday, Jul 27

Warriors vs. Sea Eagles, Mt Smart Stadium, (FOX), 2:00pm (EST), 4:00pm (local)

Tigers vs. Dragons, ANZ Stadium, (NINE), 3:00pm

Monday, Jul 28

Raiders vs. Rabbitohs, GIO Stadium, (FOX), 7:00pm

ROUND 21

Aug 1-4

Roosters vs. Dragons, Allianz Stadium

Cowboys vs. Titans, 1300Smiles Stadium

Raiders vs. Warriors, GIO Stadium

Sharks vs. Eels, Remondis Stadium

Sea Eagles vs. Broncos, Brookvale Oval

Bulldogs vs. Panthers, ANZ Stadium

Rabbitohs vs. Knights, Barlow Park, Cairns

Tigers vs. Storm, Campbelltown Stadium

ROUND 22

Aug 8-11

Rabbitohs vs. Sea Eagles, SCG

Broncos vs. Bulldogs, Suncorp Stadium

Cowboys vs. Tigers, 1300Smiles Stadium

Knights vs. Storm, Hunter Stadium

Eels vs. Raiders, TIO Stadium

Warriors vs. Sharks, Mt Smart Stadium

Dragons vs. Panthers, WIN Stadium

Roosters vs. Titans, Allianz Stadium

ROUND 23

Aug 14-18

Rabbitohs vs. Broncos, ANZ Stadium

Eels vs. Bulldogs, ANZ Stadium

Knights vs. Warriors, Hunter Stadium

Panthers vs. Cowboys, Centrebet Stadium

Titans vs. Sea Eagles, Robina Stadium

Raiders vs. Dragons, GIO Stadium

Storm vs. Sharks, AAMI Park

Tigers vs. Roosters, ANZ Stadium

ROUND 24

Aug 21-25

Broncos vs. Knights, Suncorp Stadium

Rabbitohs vs. Cowboys, ANZ Stadium

Dragons vs. Titans, WIN Jubilee Oval

Warriors vs. Roosters, Mt Smart Stadium

Bulldogs vs. Tigers, ANZ Stadium

Sharks vs. Raiders, Remondis Stadium

Panthers vs. Storm, Centrebet Stadium

Eels vs. Sea Eagles, Pirtek Stadium

ROUND 25

Aug 28-Sep 1

Bulldogs vs. Rabbitohs, ANZ Stadium

Broncos vs. Dragons, Suncorp Stadium

Warriors vs. Titans, Mt Smart Stadium

Raiders vs. Tigers, GIO Stadium

Roosters vs. Storm, Allianz Stadium

Knights vs. Eels, Hunter Stadium

Sea Eagles vs. Panthers, Brookvale Oval

Cowboys vs. Sharks, 1300Smiles Stadium

ROUND 26

Sep 4-7

Storm vs. Broncos, AAMI Park

Roosters vs. Rabbitohs, Allianz Stadium

Knights vs. Dragons, Hunter Stadium

Raiders vs. Eels, GIO Stadium

Cowboys vs. Sea Eagles, 1300Smiles Stadium

Panthers vs. Warriors, Centrebet Stadium

Titans vs. Bulldogs, Robina Stadium

Tigers vs. Sharks, Leichhardt Oval

NRL FINALS

Week 1 Finals

12, 13, 14 September

Week 2 Finals

19, 20 September

Week 3 Finals

26, 27 September

NRL Grand Final

5 October

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14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Poms all out - but Aussies dig in

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ENGLISH cricketers hit Adelaide's club scene as soon as they got here - but none attended the official Test dinner as Aussie bowlers whet their appetites.

The Ashes tourists, usually feted guests at such events, elected to have their own team dinner elsewhere as Australian Test stars Ryan Harris, Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon, and coach Darren Lehmann, dressed up to represent the home team at the black-tie SACA event celebrating the first Test at the redeveloped Oval.

GALLERY: SACA'S TRADITIONAL TEST MATCH DINNER

England was represented by a few travelling members of the English and Wales Cricket Board.

When asked about the English no-show, Lehmann played a straight bat.

"Not going down there, I get in trouble most of the time," Lehmann said.

Australian players, from left, Peter Siddle, Ryan Harris and Nathan Lyon at SACA's official Test match dinner at Adelaide Oval.

Party Poms Kevin Pietersen and Stuart Broad already raised a few eyebrows, and glasses, when they hit Currie St club Zhivago until 3.30am the day they arrived.

About 500 other people found the time to attend the glamorous Oval event, which was hosted by Hamish McLachlan and featured guest speakers, including former Test captain Kim Hughes and former England coach David Lloyd.

MORE: FIRED-UP MITCH JOHNSON IS BAD TO THE BONE


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Slater's knee concern here to stay

Written By Unknown on Selasa, 03 Desember 2013 | 14.23

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MELBOURNE coach Craig Bellamy is resigned to star fullback Billy Slater having to nurse his knee problem for the rest of his rugby league career.

Slater overcame a knee injury to be one of standout players in Australia's World Cup final win over New Zealand in England at the weekend.

He had hurt his left knee a fortnight before the final and only made the decider after intensive treatment.

``When he first hurt it in Origin last year, the medical advice then was that it's going to be an issue for the rest of his career,'' Bellamy said on Tuesday.

``It's going to take some managing and that's what it is at the moment.''

But Bellamy said he never had concerns about Slater playing in the final.

``We were very confident that Tim (Kangaroos coach Tim Sheens) and the medical staff wouldn't let him play unless he was (right),'' Bellamy said.

Australia's Billy Slater breaks free to score his second try of the World Cup final. Source: AP

Bellamy also took the chance for a quiet dig at NRL referees ahead of next season.

``It was really good to see he got a couple of penalties as well,'' Bellamy said of Slater in the World Cup.

'`He was taken without the ball a couple of times and the English referee picked that up.

``Hopefully there's a couple of signs there that our referees might be able to see the same thing next year.''

But Bellamy was less pleased about the scheduling pressures on the game's biggest stars like Slater.

He would like to see a shorter World Cup format in future and would prefer no NRL games during the State Of Origin schedule.

The Storm's World Cup representatives won't resume training with the club until late January.

``All of us here at club-land are worried about the workload of our elite players,'' Bellamy said.

``Us coaches have been going on about that for a while.''


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Clarke, Hussey in ICC Test team

Clarke had a superb year with the bat despite Australia's struggles.. Source: Jonathon Searle / News Limited

AUSTRALIA'S difficult 2013 has been reflected by the fact that just one current player has been named in the International Cricket Council's Test and one-day teams of the year.

Captain Michael Clarke and the retired Michael Hussey were included in the world Test XI while injured fast bowler Mitchell Starc is the only Australian in the combined one-day side.

Clarke was clearly the leading run-scorer in the world during the voting period from August 7 last year to August 25 this year with 1559 runs at 71, including five centuries.

Hussey scored three centuries in just six Tests and averaged 75.

Starc had the best average of any one-day bowler with more than 18 wickets during that 12-month period, claiming 28 wickets at just 16 apiece in 12 matches.

Captain and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni from India and South African opening bowler Dale Steyn were named in the combined Test side for a sixth successive year.

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Top-ranked Test side South Africa had the most players in the team with four, Hashim Amla, AB de Villiers, Steyn and Vernon Philander, while England had three, Alastair Cook, Graeme Swann and Jimmy Anderson.

The other player in the combined Test side is Indian opening batsman Cheteshwar Pujara.

Dhoni, Amla, de Villers and Anderson were also named in the ICC's one-day team of the year.

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The ICC Test Team of the Year in batting order:

Alastair Cook (Eng, captain)

Cheteshwar Pujara (Ind)

Hashim Amla (SA)

Michael Clarke (Aus)

Michael Hussey (Aus)

AB de Villiers (SA)

MS Dhoni (Ind - Wicketkeeper)

Graeme Swann (Eng)

Dale Steyn (SA)

James Anderson (Eng)

Vernon Philander (SA)

12th Man: Ravichandran Ashwin (Ind)

ICC ODI Team of the Year in batting order:

Tillakaratne Dilshan (SL)

Shikhar Dhawan (Ind)

Hashim Amla (SA)

Kumar Sangakkara (SL)

AB de Villiers (SA)

MS Dhoni (Ind, captain and wicketkeeper)

Ravindra Jadeja (Ind)

Saeed Ajmal (Pak)

Mitchell Starc (Aus)

James Anderson (Eng)

Lasith Malinga (SL)

12th Man: Mitchell McClenaghan (NZ)


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Changes helped Sky Blues

Written By Unknown on Senin, 02 Desember 2013 | 14.23

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PERCHED in third spot, Sydney FC feel like genuine A-League title contenders and midfielder Matthew Thompson says the suspensions and injuries plaguing the side can also provide an advantage.

A mere month ago Sky Blues fans were calling for coach Frank Farina's head as the side looked destined for a repeat of last season's disappointment.

But after posting a club-record fourth straight win with an emphatic victory over Newcastle Jets on Saturday, fans and players alike are daring to dream that a third championship could be a realistic ambition.

Just as important for morale, Saturday's win came largely without the help of Alessandro Del Piero, who left the field midway through the 2-0 victory with a hamstring injury.

Joel Chianese and new Serbian striker Ranko Despotovic, who came on as a substitute for Del Piero, ensured the Sky Blues kept their winning streak going.

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Del Piero will have scans on Tuesday to assess the extent of his injury but is in doubt for this weekend's trip to Gosford to meet defending champions Central Coast.

Thompson started in place of the injured Brett Emerton (calf) on Saturday, with the veteran midfielder also in doubt for the Mariners clash.

Pedj Bojic will be back from suspension but fellow defender Tiago Calvano is serving his eight-week ban while the likes of Rhyan Grant (knee), Peter Triantis (groin) and Terry Antonis (thigh) are sidelined indefinitely with injury.

Far from threatening to derail the side, Thompson says the frequent changes in the starting XI can give an advantage to the Sky Blues.

"It's important for us that we have that self belief that no matter who's out there we can do a job," Thompson said after training on Monday.

"The fact that we've used so many players, it would be hard for teams to prepare for how we'll play so that can really be an advantage for us.

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"Joel (Chianese) has stepped up this year, Ali (Abbas) is (switched to) playing left back and Mat Jurman came in defence on the weekend and it's like he's been playing there for 10 weeks.

"I think a few people may have thought with Alessandro coming off it might have been a blessing for them but for us it may have been an advantage."

But all too aware how quickly things can change, Thompson says the side are making sure their confidence doesn't turn into complacency.

"The big word there is consistency and the teams that do that in the A-League find themselves in the top two or three at the end of the season and that's definitely the plan for us," he said.

"It's important that we put ourselves in a position where if there's any slip ups throughout the season you're not dropping back outside the top six."


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NFL player tackled by the nuts

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SAN Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis had every right to be upset after being on the wrong end of a very unorthodox tackle from St Louis Rams safety TJ McDonald.

In a desperate bid to bring Davis down, McDonald stuck his hands in between Davis's legs and yanked.

Davis had the last laugh, scoring the 50th touchdown of his career as the 49ers secured a 23-13 victory.

Check out the video above.


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Suns chairman to rule on Brown

Written By Unknown on Minggu, 01 Desember 2013 | 14.24

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CAMPBELL Brown's football future rests in the hands of two men with the Gold Coast chairman John Witheriff and a fellow board member to decide if the Suns bad boy remains at the club.

Suns chairman Witheriff released a statement to fans on Sunday afternoon, updating them on the investigation into the Los Angeles fight that left young Suns player Steven May with a broken jaw.

Witheriff said the Suns board had met to discuss the matter, and while club officials were conducting interviews with those involved, the final decision on Brown - who remains suspended from the club while the investigation continues - would be left to the chairman and fellow board member Bob East.

"Highlighting the seriousness with which the club is treating the issue, the board agreed to delegate its authority to make a decision on the matter to two board members, myself, and Mr Bob East," Witheriff told fans on the club's website.

"Since the meeting of the board, Chief Executive, Travis Auld, and General Manager - Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft, have been conducting a detailed investigation of the incident."

With the Suns initially setting a four-day period for their investigation, Witheriff said the club was in no rush and was "committed to a fair process".

READ WITHERIFF'S FULL STATEMENT BELOW

On Saturday footage emerged of the fight. The dark footage, which appears to have been shot on a mobile phone, shows the aftermath of Brown's punch that shattered May's jaw and resulted in him requiring two plates being inserted into his jaw.

May and Brown grapple with each other amid a hail of expletives, with May repeatedly telling Brown to "let go".

The 20-second confrontation ends when the two men are separated by teammate Jack Hutchins.

May, a key position player at the Suns, was punched by Brown in Los Angeles nightclub Bootsy Bellows on Monday night.

Campbell Brown and Steven May, seen here at training during the year. Source: News Limited

Brown has been banished from the club until the Suns' investigation has been completed.

BAD BOY BROWN'S LONG RAP SHEET

Brown and May were ordered home from LA immediately and arrived back on the Gold Coast on Wednesday.

The rest of the Suns arrived home on Thursday and were taken immediately to the club by bus where they were all grilled extensively over the incident.

BROWN'S HAD TOO MANY BRAIN SNAPS

They received no reports the attack was provoked although it appears May did have an altercation with Hawthorn premiership player Josh Gibson who was also at the venue.

Gibson had attempted to stop May from re-entering the nightclub to take a photo of pop princess Rihanna who was hosting a private party after her concert.

CEO Travis Auld said the investigation would probably take three or four days and would also include interviews with members of the coaching staff.

Did Rihanna's appearance at an LA nightclub spark a chain of events that led to Campbell Brown (left) breaking the jaw of teammate Steven May (right)? Source: Supplied

"Because it is an issue that has ramifications on our brand the board will be involved,'' Auld said.

Auld said he had heard reports that Brown may have retaliated to a deeply personal insult directed at him by May, but he had not heard anything to support them.

He said Brown had not complained of any insults.

The 30-year-old was not available for the first match of next season because of a suspension for kicking Demon James Strauss in the head.

Brown started 2013 with a six-match ban and there were doubts he would reach the 200-game milestone but he forced his way back into the side's best 22 and produced a solid season.

His expected absence may create the vacancy for code-hopper Karmichael Hunt who struggled with injury this year but spent time in the early part of the year playing in Brown's role as a defensive forward.

STATEMENT FROM GOLD COAST SUNS CHAIRMAN JOHN WITHERIFF:

"I am as disappointed as any of you to be providing you with this update in relation to the incident between Campbell Brown and Steven May that occurred in Los Angeles following the team's training camp in Arizona.

As passionate supporters of the Gold Coast SUNS, I believe it is important that the club keeps you updated with the status of our investigation and the process that the club is following to ensure we reach a fair and appropriate outcome for all involved.

The full board of the Gold Coast SUNS met on Thursday afternoon where the incident was discussed at length. Highlighting the seriousness with which the club is treating the issue, the board agreed to delegate its authority to make a decision on the matter to two board members, myself, and Mr Bob East.

Since the meeting of the board, Chief Executive, Travis Auld, and General Manager - Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft, have been conducting a detailed investigation of the incident.

As you would expect, their brief has been to gather all the relevant facts, ensuring that any ruling the club makes will be made with accurate and substantiated information.

This is being done in a timely manner, but I must stress that the board is committed to a fair and appropriate outcome. The integrity of the investigation is my dominant concern.

Following the board meeting, the club notified Campbell Brown that he would be suspended from the club until the completion of the investigation. Campbell understands the suspension and is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation.

Steven May underwent surgery on Saturday to repair a broken left jaw. He has had two plates inserted into his jaw, and we expect that he will be in a position to resume running in approximately 2 weeks.

As Chairman of the Gold Coast SUNS, I share the high expectations you have of our club.

The club will continue to keep our members and supporters updated and will provide you with further information at the appropriate time.

In the meantime, rest assured, we are committed to a fair process, that will reflect the values of our club - its members, players, staff and sponsors."

JOHN WITHERIFF

Chairman - Gold Coast SUNS

- with staff writers


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Stubborn Vics stage Shield fightback

Aaron Finch is out just short of his century at the MCG. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Wayne Ludbey / News Limited

VICTORIA continued its fight back against South Australia at the MCG today as Aaron Finch fell three runs shy of just his second Sheffield Shield century.

The Bushrangers have a 128-run lead and will resume tomorrow at 8-353 after tail enders Scott Boland (13 off 52 balls )and Jon Holland (32 of 30 balls)dug in late this afternoon.

Opener Finch, dominant in the short-form game but batting to save his place in the Bushrangers four-day side having made just 22 runs from his past five Shield innings, scored an impressive 97 before he was caught, edging to slip.

All-rounder Glenn Maxwell, who was forced from the ground on day two with a sore knee, joined Finch in the Bushrangers tussle hitting 10 fours on his way to 82 before he was bowled by Redbacks' paceman Gary Putland (3-93).

The Bushrangers began yesterday 147 behind after South Australia posted 343 in reply to the home team's first innings of 118.

Glenn Maxwell dispactes the ball to the boundary. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Limited

Finch's innings included 11 fours and came off 248 balls in 313 minutes, his longest ever first class innings and his highest Shield score since he made his maiden century (102) for Victoria in March 2010.

South Australia refused to take the new ball until the 110th over , after which the Redbacks took 3-67 including the wickets of Maxwell, Dan Christian (lbw for 15) and Clint McKay (caught behind for 9).

Earlier fellow opener Rob Quiney made 37 off 122 balls before he was caught at first slip.

Peter Handscomb made 19 before he was caught at point, Cameron White (6) was out lbw while Matthew Wade (16) was caught at short cover by Phillip Hughes.

Victoria was fighting to avoid a second consecutive loss following last week's dismal innings and 38-run defeat at the hands of Western Australia.


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