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Live: U20’s Origin and Fiji v Samoa

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 03 Mei 2014 | 14.23

U20's State of Origin clash. Source: News Corp Australia

WELCOME to our live blog for Saturday afternoon's representative matches.

Follow the action in the U20's State of Origin match between New South Wales and Queensland.

Rugby league's hottest young talent is on show as the Blues look to extend their winning streak to three-straight U20's Origin wins.

Following the 20's, Fiji and Samoa do batt; e at Sportingbet Stadium with the winner qualifying for the Four Nations tournament in October.

Log into the blog below for exclusive photos and polls:


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Power surge to deny plucky Giants

Port Adelaide midfielder Jared Polec has his kick smothered. Picture: Kym Smith Source: Kym Smith / News Corp Australia

A BRAVE Greater Western Sydney have been mugged by reality, with Port Adelaide continuing their strong season.

If there was a consolation for the Giants in a chilly Canberra before of just 6549 fans, it was that Port Adelaide's 35-point winning margin was not enough to keep the Power on top of the AFL ladder once Hawthorn thrashed St Kilda by 145 points.

The GWS result was a significant improvement on last year's 75-point thrashing by Port but a long way from the euphoric and unexpected victory over the Power in 2012.

It was a fourth consecutive loss for the Giants after winning two of their first three matches, reinforcing the reality of a fledgling club in just their third AFL season.

Port Adelaide midfielder Brad Ebert in action. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

Jeremy Cameron ended up with the biggest dose of reality when the All Australian full forward was moved to the back line after half time as the Giants trailed by 32 points.

The agile big man kicked 62 goals last season to finish third in the 2013 goalkicking behind Hawthorn's Jarryd Roughead (72) and Collingwood's Travis Cloke (68).

However Cameron barely touched the ball in the first half despite kicking one of the Giants early goals.

With the Giants' formative years as much about learning as winning, coach Leon Cameron took the opportunity of sending his most potent forward to school in defence.

There is much learning to be done by the fledgling Giants, who have an average age of under 21 and gave away the winning margin with goals conceded during time on in each quarter.

Port Adelaide full forward Jay Schultz was the major beneficiary kicking six goals, including four in the last quarter.

GWS are desperately short of key defenders, with co-captain Phil Davis missing as he recuperates from a long term kidney injury.

Cameron in defence left the Giants' first number one draft choice, Jon Patton, as the sole key forward and he enjoyed the extra responsibility, kicking two fine goals in the third term.

Matt Buntine flies over the pack to spoil. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

The first was a wonderful kick on the angle from outside 50 metres and the second came from a strong pack mark 22 minutes into the third term, reducing Port's lead to just 20 points.

It was as close as the Giants managed to get in the second half.

There were moments early in the match when the Giants may have believed that the monumental upset of two seasons ago was a chance of being repeated.

The Giants kicked three of the first four goals as they dominated play and should have scored more given the first quarter opportunities.

Then Angus Monfries snapped a goal midway through the first quarter, kicked another from a free kick after a clumsy Heath Shaw tackle, and Port were on the way to seven goals in a row.

Monfries had three goals to half time, exposing Shaw, who lost the balance between attempting to set up play as the Giants' most experienced defender and minding his man.

The Giants have clearly drafted another superstar, with current number one pick Josh Kelly, a polished midfielder, managing 21 possessions in just his fifth game and kicking a goal.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Bombers haven’t given up on top four

Written By Unknown on Jumat, 02 Mei 2014 | 14.23

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JAKE Melksham says Essendon has not abandoned hopes of its first top-four finish in 13 years but has labelled Saturday night's clash against the Western Bulldogs a "must-win".

And the midfielder is confident his defence will negate former Bomber Stewart Crameri with the loser of the Etihad Stadium battle set to slump to a 2-5 record.

Melksham remains close with the goalkicker, who crossed to the Dogs on a four-year deal worth about $400,000 a season, with the pair dining together on Tuesday.

"It'd be good to have him, but obviously he's not here and he's chosen to leave the footy club and we're looking forward to playing him," Melksham said before the Dons' light run at Tullamarine.

"He is a tough match-up, but I think he knows who'll get him because he's been here for a few years."

No side has earned the double chance after a 2-4 start since eventual premier Sydney in 2005, but Melksham did not shy away from that challenge.

"It's a must-win. We need to get back up into the top eight, we want to be in the top four to be a contender in the finals. Our hard work really has to start from this week," he said.

Jake Melksham in action against the Blues. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

Star Brendon Goddard and Heath Hocking will return in a major midfield boost, with the tagger's addition allowing Melksham to be released after he was sent to Scott Pendlebury on Anzac Day.

The Dogs injected speedster Jason Johannisen — who the Dons reportedly courted last year — and No.4 pick Marcus Bontempelli along with defenders Tom Williams and Dale Morris.

Veteran Daniel Giansiracusa headlined four omissions.

Jake Melksham at Essendon training. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

Coach Mark Thompson is set to persist with Jake Carlisle in attack despite the struggling 22-year-old's publicised form slump, underpinned by just 3.4 in six matches.

Melksham reiterated Thompson's call for the Bombers' midfield to better supply Carlisle but said the struggling swingman was "in a good headspace".

"Around the club we're just trying to get his confidence up," Melksham, 22, said.

"I've noticed around the club during the week he's not down on himself, he's still the likable Jake that laughs and mucks around and it hasn't affected him too much."

The Bombers are fresh from an eight-day break, which Melksham said enabled them to enjoy an intense match-simulation session on Wednesday.

"The two previous weeks we'd had six-day breaks, so it was more about recovery but internally we've worked hard on our game this week and trying to string together four quarters of good footy and I think that's what we'll do."

The first-round pick praised the Dogs' contested footy under Brendan McCartney, who is searching for his club's first win against Essendon since Matthew Knights was coach and the Dogs were bound for a preliminary final.


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Clarke stepping down was key: Marsh

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NEW Australian chairman of selectors Rod Marsh claims that Michael Clarke stepping down as a selector last year is a fundamental reason for Australia's rapid improvement.

Marsh, a current selector who replaces John Inverarity as chairman, claims that Clarke's off-field leadership has gone to another level after relinquishing the responsibility of selection midway through last year.

The former wicket-keeping great also praised the contribution of new coach Darren Lehmann and claimed the return of Mitchell Johnson "bowling like the wind" was also pivotal to Australia's spectacular summer.

Marsh was appointed as chairman of selectors at a Cricket Australia board meeting in Melbourne on Friday.

Mark Waugh and Trevor Hohns have replaced Inverarity and Andy Bichel on the four-man panel, while coach Darren Lehmann remains.

"Michael gave away his selection duties, which freed him up a lot to be able to interact with the team a lot more at training sessions and off the field," Marsh said.

"We all know Michael is an outstanding on-field captain but I think his off-field captaincy has just flourished since he stepped down as a selector.

"You can understand that. It's very difficult for him to operate off the field when he's both captain and a selector.

"Obviously Darren has brought a 'no fear' feeling to the boys. He's just encouraged them to go out and play with freedom.

"And getting Mitchell Johnson back into the team and bowling well has just been an absolutely bonus.

"We had some very, very good, you fit fast bowlers a couple of years ago who have all had injuries and as a consequence it was really nice to have one of the old timers back and bowling like the wind."

Australia captain Michael Clarke with Rod Marsh. Source: Getty Images

Australia has just regained the number one Test ranking after almost five years but it has been done to a significant extent on the back of recalled senior players such as Johnson, Ryan Harris, Brad Haddin and Chris Rogers, who are in their mid-30s.

However Marsh did not believe this was a concern.

"I don't think you can read too much into blokes ages these days," he said. "The game has changed so dramatically from 20 or 30 years ago.

"It's become a profession and these guys work very hard on their fitness etc.

"They play, train or travel just about every day of the year. A 35-year-old today is certainly not like a 35-year-old 20 years ago. It's completely different.

"In an ideal world it would be nice to have a lot of young blokes in the side and we can't wait for that to happen.

"If we had three or four 19 or 20-year-olds making 1200 or 1500 runs in Sheffield Shield cricket that would be fantastic. We would all love that.

"Unfortunately that's not the case but there are certainly opportunities out there for young players to do well and push their case for national selection."

Rod Marsh takes over from John Inverarity as chairman of selectors. Source: AAP

Marsh claimed Australia's biggest challenge was to remain number one in Test and one-day cricket and get there in Twenty20 cricket.

"Unfortunately we may have no say in remaining number one with the way the rankings are worked out because South Africa could well take that spot back without us playing another game (Test)," said Marsh.

"All we have to really worry about is ensuring that the teams we pick play good aggressive cricket and if they play to the best of their ability then the rankings will look after themselves."

Following his retirement from international cricket, Marsh, 66, served as head coach at the national academy in Adelaide and then undertook a similar role in England where he also worked as a national selector until 2005.

"Rod Marsh is the right man to take on this important role having been a key member of the panel since 2011," Sutherland said of the former wicketkeeper-batsman who played 96 Tests between 1970 and 1984.

"His track record speaks for itself. He brings a wealth of experience to the position, having been a leading player, coach and most recently a selector.

"Throughout his days as a player he was the absolute embodiment of the Baggy Green cap and to this day is widely respected throughout the game.

"He has a great eye for talent and has strong relationships throughout international cricket."

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He became an Australian selector in 2011 following the sweeping Argus review in the wake of Australia's Ashes debacle.

Inverarity, 70, wanted to continue as a selector but the CA board felt it was time to move on.

"When John Inverarity took over as national selector the Australian Test team was ranked fourth in the world and its on-field performance was well short of where it is today," Sutherland said.

"He leaves his post with Australian teams in a position of strength holding the number one ranking in Test and one-day international cricket.'

Inverarity said the future of Australian cricket was in good hands.

"For some months I have been clearly of the mind that the end of my contract period on 30 June was the right time for me to step down in favour of Rod Marsh to chair the panel. Rod is the ideal person in every respect to take over and I would like to wish he and Darren, along with Trevor Hohns and Mark Waugh the very best in their new roles."

Mark Waugh will have a primary focus on the shorter forms of the game. Source: AAP

Hohns, 60, served as a national selector from 1993-2006, including a decade as chairman, and returned as Queensland chairman of selectors for the past three years. He will now step down from the Queensland panel.

"I took on selection responsibilities with Queensland a couple of years ago and really enjoyed doing it again. During that time I worked closely with Darren Lehmann where we developed a good working relationship," said Hohns.

"So to have the chance to work together again at a national level, along with Rod and Mark will be great. I'm genuinely looking forward to it. I enjoy the role and the responsibilities that go with selection and making a contribution to Australian cricket."

Mark Waugh, 48, will continue as a Big Bash commentator.

"I see it as a real honour to be a selector for Australia. I still love the game and since retiring have remained very interested in the Australian team and its performance.

"I view this as a really good challenge and for me it's a way that I can give back to the game."


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Sterling expected to fight NBA ban

Written By Unknown on Kamis, 01 Mei 2014 | 14.23

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WITH the NBA's owners' 10-member advisory and finance committee scheduled to conduct a conference call Thursday to discuss the next steps in the ouster of Donald Sterling, a source close to the Clippers banned-for-life owner said he expects Sterling to mount a stiff legal challenge to commissioner Adam Silver's ruling.

And in case you missed it, the Clippers look to close out the Warriors in Game 6 of their first-round playoff series Thursday night.

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The source who has worked with Sterling, but is not advising him in this case, said the disgraced owner likely will work with attorney Robert Platt to fight the NBA. Platt, a 1982 Fordham Law School grad, successfully defended Sterling in 2009 against former Clippers general manager Elgin Baylor's suit over alleged racial discrimination.

"I think it will be one last-ditch effort for both billionaire Sterling and millionaire Platt," the source said.

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On Tuesday, Silver announced Sterling's ban plus a $2.5 million fine for racist remarks while stressing he will urge owners to force Sterling to sell. Under NBA by-laws, the owners can file charges of termination with the commissioner, who has three days to serve them. Next is a five-day period for Sterling to respond. The owners must vote within 10 days to force out Sterling with a three-quarters majority needed, a number Silver confidently said he could gather. Apparently, Sterling will not go quietly.

If the NBA owners vote against Sterling, he likely will seek a temporary restraining order in the Central District of California.

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"I'd be surprised if a restraining order was not granted," the source said.

If a restraining order is granted, then the court would need to rule within 18 days on a possible injunction — which could tie the case in court for years. But the sourced acknowledged the chance of an injunction looked "hopeless."

Platt was reached and declined comment.

And all of this comes amid the playoffs. In an enormously emotional game Tuesday, the Clippers grabbed a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series with a 113-103 victory over Golden State in Los Angeles behind DeAndre Jordan's 25 points and 18 rebounds.

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"His value can't be measured," said Clippers coach Doc Rivers who noted, quite correctly, Sterling has overshadowed the games. "This might be the greatest playoffs in league history, and I can't wait for us all to get back on that because we're missing a hell of a playoffs."

Additional reporting by Marc Berman.

More here: http://nypost.com/2014/04/30/sterling-expected-to-fight-nba-ruling-in-last-ditch-effort/


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

45 NRL stars injured in one week

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AN astonishing 45 players have gone down injured or suspended in just one crazy week of rugby league.

The mass casualty ward was created through the triple effect of:

1) A HARD-fought Anzac weekend of NRL that claimed 25 players including Jarryd Hayne, James Maloney, Michael Jennings, Todd Carney, Jamie Lyon, Glenn Stewart and Braith Anasta;

2) A MASS exodus of players from representative fixtures. A total of 17 players withdrew from Tests or City-Country, including John Sutton, Michael Gordon, Manu Vatuvei, Nathan Peats, Josh Dugan, Wade Graham and Trent Merrin;

3) A BUSY week at the judiciary and on club disciplinary matters, with three players suspended - Paul Carter (high tackle), Tim Simona (dangerous throw) and Zane Tetevano (club suspension).

But in a sad indictment of the representative weekend, 24 of the injured players are due to return when NRL games resume in round nine.

45 players have gone down in a week. Source: DailyTelegraph

ROUND EIGHT AND REP ROUND CASUALTIES:

BRISBANE BRONCOS

Alex Glenn (foot, round 9)

Josh Hoffman (Achilles, round 10) - pre-game

CANBERRA RAIDERS

Injury free in round eight

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CANTERBURY BULLDOGS

Tim Lafai (concussion, round 9) – pre-game

Moses Mbye (cramps, round 9)

Michael Ennis (ankle, round 9) – ruled out of City-Country

Drury Low (fractured hand, round 10)

Trent Hodkinson (knee, round 9) – ruled out of City-Country

CRONULLA SHARKS

Todd Carney (hamstring, round 10)

Bryce Gibbs (hand, indefinite) – pre-game

Michael Gordon (knee, round 9) – ruled out of City-Country

Wade Graham (shoulder, round 9) - ruled out of City-Country

GOLD COAST TITANS

Albert Kelly (broken leg, round 10)

Aidan Sezer (ankle, round 10) – ruled out of City-Country

Maurice Blair (wrist, indefinite) - pre-game

Paul Carter (suspension, round 10)

MANLY SEA EAGLES

Jamie Lyon (knee, round 10)

Glenn Stewart (ankle, round 14)

MELBOURNE STORM

Justin O'Neill (broken tibia, round 14)

Sisa Waqa (ankle, round 12)

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NEW ZEALAND WARRIORS

Manu Vatuvei (quad, round 9) - ruled out for NZ

NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS

Jeremy Smith (knee, round 9) – pre-game, ruled out for NZ

Zane Tetevano (club suspension, indefinite)

Joey Leilua (knee, round 9) - ruled out of City-Country

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NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS

Ray Thompson (knee, round 10)

Gavin Cooper (knee, round 9) – pre-game

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PARRAMATTA EELS

Jarryd Hayne (shoulder, round 10) – ruled out for Australia

Mitchell Allgood (concussion, round 9) - pre-game

Nathan Peats (ankle, round 9) – ruled out of City-Country

Tim Mannah (ear drum, indefinite) – ruled out of City-Country

PENRITH PANTHERS

Elijah Taylor (knee, round 14)

SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS

John Sutton (quad, round 9) – ruled out of City-Country

Sam Burgess (elbow, round 9)

Apisai Koroisau (shoulder, round 9) – ruled out for Fiji

Cameron McInnes (concussion, round 9)

Ben Te'o (cramp, round 9)

ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS

Josh Dugan (ankle, round 9) - ruled out of City-Country

Trent Merrin (thumb, round 9) - ruled out of City-Country

Tyson Frizell (ankle, round 9) - ruled out of City-Country

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SYDNEY ROOSTERS

James Maloney (shoulder, round 11)

Michael Jennings (ankle, round 10)

WESTS TIGERS

Braith Anasta (ankle, round 10)

Keith Galloway (finger, round 9)

David Nofoaluma (knee, round 9) - ruled out for Samoa

Blake Austin (cork, round 9)

Tim Simona (suspension, round 10)

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FULL NRL CASUALTY WARD

BRISBANE BRONCOS

Ashley Taylor (shoulder, round 18)

Mitchell Dodds (knee, season)

Josh Hoffman (foot, round 9

Alex Glenn (foot, round 9)

Sam Thaiday (calf, round 9)

CANBERRA RAIDERS

Edrick Lee (foot, season)

Jeff Lynch (knee, season)

CANTERBURY BULLDOGS

Frank Pritchard (pectoral, season)

Chase Stanley (shoulder, round 9)

Moses Mbye (cramps, round 9)

Michael Ennis (ankle, round 9)

Drury Low (fractured hand, round 10)

Trent Hodkinson (knee, round 9)

CRONULLA SHARKS

Luke Lewis (shoulder/radiation treatment, round 9)

Eric Grothe Jr (back, round 9)

Michael Gordon (knee, round 9)

Todd Carney (hamstring, round 10)

Isaac De Gois (knee, round 10)

Wade Graham (shoulder, round 9)

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GOLD COAST TITANS

Aiden Sezer (ankle, round 10)

Albert Kelly (ankle, round 10)

Maurice Blair (wrist, indefinite)

William Zillman (hamstring, round 9)

Brad Tighe (shoulder, round 9)

Matt White (suspension, round 10)

Luke Bailey (ankle, round 9)

James Roberts (ankle, round 12)

Jamie Dowling (knee, season)

Caleb Binge (shoulder, round 9)

Paul Carter (suspension, round 10)

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MANLY SEA EAGLES

Glenn Stewart (ankle, round 15)

Kieran Foran (knee, round 12)

Jamie Lyon (knee, round 10)

Tony Satini (knee, indefinite)

MELBOURNE STORM

Matt Duffie (ACL, season)

Ben Roberts (knee, round 12)

Jordan McLean (suspension, round 13)

Justin O'Neill (broken tibia, round 14)

Sisa Waqa (ankle, round 12)

Slade Griffin (ACL, season)

NEW ZEALAND WARRIORS

Thomas Leuluai (groin, indefinite)

Jerome Ropati (broken jaw, round 12)

Glen Fisiiahi (shoulder, round 10)

Ben Matulino (suspension, round 9)

Manu Vatuvei (quad, round 9)

NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS

Akuila Uate (knee, round 9)

Clint Newton (bicep, season)

Alex McKinnon (fractured neck, season)

Timana Tahu (knee, round 10)

Willie Mason (suspension, round 10)

Matt Minto (hamstring, indefinite)

Jeremy Smith (knee, round 9)

Zane Tetevano (club suspension, indefinite)

Joey Leilua (knee, round 9)

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NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS

Lachlan Coote (ACL, season)

Hezron Murgha (knee, round 10)

Patrick Kaufusi (pectoral, season)

Antonio Winterstein (hamstring, round 10)

Ray Thompson (knee, round 10)

Gavin Cooper (knee, round 9)

PARRAMATTA EELS

Jacob Loko (knee, indefinite)

Lee Mossop (shoulder, round 12)

Ben Smith (finger, round 9)

Kenny Edwards (fractured hand, round 12)

Mitchell Allgood (concussion, round 9)

Jarryd Hayne (shoulder, round 10)

Nathan Peats (ankle, round 9)

Tim Mannah (ear drum, indefinite)

PENRITH PANTHERS

Elijah Taylor (knee, round 14)

Sam McKendry (ankle, round 12)

George Jennings (dislocated elbow, season)

Lewis Brown (pectoral, round 12)

Wes Naiqama (ankle, round 12)

Shaun Spence (knee, indefinite)

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SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS

Luke Keary (pectoral, round 16)

Thomas Burgess (foot, indefinite)

Issac Luke (shoulder, round 13)

Apisai Koroisau (shoulder, round 9)

John Sutton (quad, round 9)

Cameron McInnes (concussion, round 9)

Joe Picker (ribs, round 9)

Sam Burgess (elbow, round 9)

Ben Te'o (cramps, round 9)

ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS

Tyson Frizzell (ankle, round 9)

Josh Dugan (ankle, round 9)

Trent Merrin (thumb, round 9)

Dylan Farrell (pectoral, indefinite)

SYDNEY ROOSTERS

James Maloney (shoulder, round 11)

Michael Jennings (ankle, round 10)

WESTS TIGERS

Curtis Sironen (foot, round 13)

Dene Halatau (ankle, round 13)

Tim Moltzen (knee, indefinite)

Sauaso Sue (ankle, round 10)

James Tedesco (ankle, round 10)

Robbie Farah (elbow, round 12)

James Gavet (hamstring, round 11)

Braith Anasta (ankle, round 10)

Blake Austin (cork, round 9)

David Nofoaluma (knee, round 9)

Keith Galloway (finger, round 9)

Tim Simona (suspension, round 10)


14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

The Buzz: Gil must listen to the fans

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 30 April 2014 | 14.23

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NEW AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan must conduct a listening tour of the league as he takes over from Andrew Demetriou.

Demetriou's departure is now only weeks away, as first revealed in the Herald Sun.

McLachlan has seen off challenges from AFL club bosses Brian Cook and Brendon Gale, but in truth was never anything other than the unbackable favourite.

WATCH ROBBO GRILL THE NEW CEO ON AFL360 — 7.30PM EST ON FOX FOOTY

His huge leverage was his certain departure if overlooked, with the AFL Commission aware it could not lose both Demetriou and McLachlan, no matter the quality of the replacement.

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REACTION: FANS DEMAND CHEAPER TICKETS, FOOD

Demetriou will happily go early despite denials on Saturday, which means McLachlan will claim equalisation and the CBA deal as the first items to be ticked off under his new regime.

WHAT ISSUES SHOULD GILLON MCLACHLAN MAKE TOP PRIORITY? LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW AND REPLAY RALPHY'S LIVE CHAT

As AFL boss, Demetriou took a decade to discover what Joe Punter is shocked to find when he enters the MCG.

Demetriou recently took his kids into the MCG outer away from the fine dining of the official AFL lunch and was stunned to cough up $32 for three buckets of chips, a sports drink and two waters.

The Pascoe Vale-raised, former AFLPA boss has shown himself to be a man of the people, but he sounded like a suit-wearing toff venturing into the cheap seats for the first time.

Like a politician out of touch with the concerns of the voting public.

Gillon McLachlan is expected to take over from Andrew Demetriou as early as Wednesday. Source: News Limited

Especially given he continues to say the AFL is not responsible for food prices, when of course the AFL deigns to play at the stadiums that put catering rights up for tender.

That kind of comment makes it clear why Gillon McLachlan — who will be announced as the new AFL chief executive at 11am today — must conduct a listening tour of the AFL this year as he takes over from Demetriou.

Spending the rest of the year in the outer listening to Joe Punter wouldn't be the worst start.

So what are the key issues for McLachlan and how best should he go about tackling them as the AFL attempts to reinvent its public profile?

TICKETING

Don't tinkle down the public's back and tell them it's raining.

If the AFL needs to ramp up ticket prices to support the game, don't disguise it as "variable" or "dynamic" pricing, just fess up.

If that money goes to the clubs or the AFL or the expansion clubs or equalisation, then tell us exactly what the breakdown is too.

And don't drop big-ticket items like variable in a sneaky press release on a Friday arvo then apologise for lack of communication because it insults the intelligence of the fan.

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GOOD FRIDAY

Build it and they will come

Ignore power clubs like Essendon and give it to Dogs and North Melbourne and give them five years to build something special.

If they can't sell it out and make extra millions for the Good Friday Appeal, strip them and give someone else a crack.

MAKE 2015 THE YEAR OF THE FAN

Every club holds one open training session a week, the fans get into NAB Challenge games free if they buy a club membership.

Urge clubs to open up their clubs to allow inner sanctum experiences, and make them speak regularly through the media to their stakeholders — the fans.

They are the game's heroes and we rarely hear them speak but for paid TV show appearances.

Make 2015 the Year of the Fan, says Jon Ralph. Source: News Limited

CONGESTION AND MAULING

Tug the coat of those on the AFL Commission and footy boss Mark Evans and convince them rotations are hurting the game. Not killing it, but hurting it. And then hasten slowly.

Reduce interchange to 90 or 100 next year, and then take another look. Don't waste another year with the meaningless 120 cap.

IMPROVE THE AFL'S BRAND THROUGH PLAIN SPEAKING AND TRANSPARENCY

Less spin, more consistency and less trickery.

The AFL should be there to serve the fans, not take them for granted. The fans still flocked through the turnstiles through the global financial crisis and the Essendon saga yet the AFL put up ticket prices again both in general admission and blockbuster games.

DON'T KILL THE GOLDEN GOOSE

People love footy, but for 29 weeks of the year including finals, plus 18 pre-season games in 18 days?

Demetriou said this weekend that every year we debated the game's aesthetics before crowds and the game itself bounced back, and he may prove right.

But McLachlan would do well to tap into what on face value seems a more long-lasting discontent and ask the fans themselves about the issues at the heart of this great game.

What issue would you like to see Gillon McLachlan address first?


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The AFL’s candy man

Boomer Harvey has made a living out of selling candy on the football field. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Wayne Ludbey / News Corp Australia

PICTURE this. Brent Harvey marks the ball 55m out from goals and as he walks back to take the set-shot realises the distance to goals might be beyond him.

Any football fan worth their salt knows what happens next and to prove this, answer the following question.

2014 FOXTEL CUP GUIDE

Question: What is the one thing the man standing on the mark must not do?

Answer: Jump.

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Golfer tangles with alligator

Written By Unknown on Selasa, 29 April 2014 | 14.23

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PGA Tour golfer John Peterson refused to 'play the ball as it lies' when he was forced to negotiate an alligator at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans this weekend.

The Louisiana golf course was more like a reptile park as alligators interfered with play throughout the tournament.

During the second round, when confronted with an alligator lying beside his ball, Peterson and his partner's caddie were recorded shooing away the pesky animal.

With little concern for his safety, Peterson grabbed the rake in a nearby bunker and began shoving the alligator toward the water hazard the ball was sitting beside.

An alligator crosses the 14th fairway during the first round of the PGA Tour Zurich Classic. Source: AP

Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on how you see it) the ballsy move did not result in a recreation of that famous Happy Gilmore alligator scene. The rake shove worked with the alligator finally flopping into the lake, giving Peterson room to safely take his shot.

It didn't seem to matter in the end though as Peterson failed to make the cut.

Alligators were a common sight during the event, with Vijay Singh coming across a baby alligator during his round too.

Korean Noh Seung-Yul won the Zurich Classic by two shots to claim his first PGA Tour title.

Vijay Singh has a run in with a baby alligator while trying to take his shot on the 7th during Round Two of the Zurich Classic. Source: AFP


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Casualty ward: stars fall on Rep round

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SOME of the game's biggest stars won't be available for Test and Rep duties this weekend due to injury — including Sam Thaiday and Josh Dugan.

It's bad news for Manly with Glenn Stewart set to miss six weeks with an ankle injury and centre Jamie Lyon will spend three weeks on the sideline with a knee complaint.

ROUND EIGHT CASUALTIES INCLUDE:

James Maloney (shoulder)

Michael Jennings (ankle)

Will Chambers (ankle)

Sisa Waqa (ankle)

John Sutton (quad)

Cameron McInnes (concussion)

Todd Carney (hamstring)

Elijah Taylor (knee)

Jamie Lyon (knee)

Glenn Stewart (ankle).

FULL NRL CASUALTY WARD

BRISBANE BRONCOS

Ashley Taylor (shoulder, round 18)

Mitchell Dodds (knee, season)

Jordan Kahu (knee, indefinite)

Sam Thaiday (calf, round 9)

Josh Hoffman (heel, round 9)

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CANBERRA RAIDERS

Edrick Lee (foot, season)

Sam Mataora (ribs, round 9)

Jeff Lynch (knee, season)

CANTERBURY BULLDOGS

Frank Pritchard (pectoral, season)

Chase Stanley (shoulder, round 9)

CRONULLA SHARKS

Luke Lewis (shoulder/radiation treatment, round 9)

Eric Grothe Jr (back, round 9)

Michael Gordon (knee, tbc)

Todd Carney (hamstring, round 10)

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GOLD COAST TITANS

Aiden Sezer (ankle, round 10)

Albert Kelly (ankle, round 12)

Matt Srama (shoulder, indefinite)

William Zillman (hamstring, round 9)

Brad Tighe (shoulder, round 10)

Matt White (suspension, round 10)

Luke Bailey (ankle, round 10)

James Roberts (ankle, round 12)

Jamie Dowling (knee, season)

Caleb Binge (Shoulder, round 9)

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MANLY SEA EAGLES

Glenn Stewart (ankle, round 15)

Kieran Foran (knee, round 12)

Jamie Lyon (knee, round 12)

MELBOURNE STORM

Matt Duffie (ACL, season)

Ben Roberts (knee, round 12)

Jordan McLean (suspension, round 13)

Will Chambers (ankle, tbc)

Sisa Waqa (ankle, tbc)

NEW ZEALAND WARRIORS

Thomas Leuluai (groin, indefinite)

Jerome Ropati (broken jaw, round 12)

Glen Fisiiahi (shoulder, indefinite)

Ben Matulino (suspension, round 9)

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NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS

Akuila Uate (knee, round 10)

Clint Newton (bicep, season)

Alex McKinnon (fractured neck, season)

Timana Tahu (knee, round 10)

Willie Mason (suspension, round 10)

Matt Minto (hamstring, indefinite)

NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS

Lachlan Coote (ACL, season)

Hezron Murgha (knee, round 10)

Patrick Kaufusi (pectoral, season)

Antonio Winterstein (hamstring, round 10)

Kane Linnett (back, round eight)

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PARRAMATTA EELS

Jacob Loko (knee, indefinite)

Lee Mossop (shoulder, round 12)

Ben Smith (finger, round 9)

Kenny Edwards (fractured hand, round 12)

Mitchell Allgood (concussion, round 9)

PENRITH PANTHERS

Elijah Taylor (knee, tbc)

Sam McKendry (ankle, round 12)

George Jennings (dislocated elbow, season)

Lewis Brown (pectoral, round 12)

Wes Naiqama (ankle, round 12)

Shaun Spence (knee, indefinite)

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SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS

Luke Keary (pectoral, round 12)

Thomas Burgess (foot, indefinite)

Issac Luke (shoulder, round 10)

Apisai Koroisau (shoulder, round 8)

John Sutton (quad, tbc)

Cameron McInnes (concussion, round 9)

Joe Picker (ribs, round 9)

ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS

Tyson Frizzell (ankle, round 9)

Josh Duagn (ankle, round 9)

Trent Merrin (thumb, round 9)

Dylan Farrell (pectoral, indefinite)

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SYDNEY ROOSTERS

James Maloney (shoulder, round 13)

Michael Jennings (ankle, round 11)

Daniel Tupou (muscle tightness, round 8)

WESTS TIGERS

Curtis Sironen (foot, round 13)

Dene Halatau (ankle, round 13)

Tim Moltzen (knee, indefinite)

Sauaso Sue (ankle, round 10)

James Tedesco (ankle, round 12)

Robbie Farah (elbow, round 12)

James Gavet (hamstring, round 11)

Liam Fulton (shoulder, round 9)


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Knights get bitten on special night

Written By Unknown on Senin, 28 April 2014 | 14.23

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THE Newcastle Knights found hope and inspiration sitting in the dressing sheds, laughing and smiling with them before kick-off.

In his first public appearance, Alex McKinnon showed up to watch his Knights only just get rolled by the Bulldogs, sitting in the Newcastle coaching box behind Wayne Bennett.

Alex McKinnon in the coaches box. Pic: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

Against the top-of-the-table Bulldogs, the Knights definitely rose for Alex on the Anzac Day weekend.

Or as Bennett put it succinctly afterwards: "I thought we rattled their cage a fair bit. We were beaten on the score board but I'm not sure we were beaten anywhere else."

Bulldog's Josh Reynolds is tackled. Pic: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

In one of the most brutal encounters of the season, the Knights continually found that little bit extra against a forward pack containing Sam Kasiano, Tony Williams, James Graham, Greg Eastwood and David Klemmer.

Leading 12-10 for a large portion of the second half, it looked as though Newcastle might have done enough to record an uplifting victory until Bulldogs prop Aiden Tolman became the accidental hero with a video referee try with ten minutes remaining.

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Newcastle captain Kurt Gidley later admitted the presence of McKinnon was a wonderful surprise for everyone at the club, commending his progress.

"It was a nice surprise.

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"He's got a great attitude Alex, it's great to see him with a smile on his face," Knights captain Kurt Gidley said.

"None of us boys knew he was going to be at the game today. We knew he was going to be close to coming but instant smile on my face when I saw him in the dressing room.

Bulldog's Mitch Brown leaps high for a bomb. Pic: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

"That's probably why it made it a little bit hard seeing him after the game today. It would have been great to get the result for him today, but it was still great having him here at the game.

"It's nice to see the progression he's making too from where he was."

The Bulldogs might be sitting as outright leaders on the NRL competition ladder but coach Des Hasler still found a number of issues with the referees, and rightly so.

Bulldog's Sam Kasiano celebrates scoring a try. Pic: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

Canterbury-Bankstown five-eighth Josh Reynolds kicked a 40/20 in the second half which the touch judge failed to award, robbing the Bulldogs of a valuable opportunity with the Knights clinging to a 12-10 lead.

From a NSW State of Origin perspective, Reynolds scored the narrowest of points victories over Newcastle opposite Jarrod Mullen, with the pair expected to go head-to-head again next Sunday in the annual City-Country clash in Dubbo.

Knight's James McManus and Bulldog's Moses Mbye contest a bomb. Pic: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

With incumbent NSW five-eighth James Maloney expected to be sidelined for up to four weeks with a shoulder injury, Reynolds continued to mount an extremely strong case for inclusion in the Blues.

The Bulldogs first try underlined why Reynolds is making such a push for selection, with the Dogs no.6 all energy, effort and class to make an AFL-style leap and bat the ball back for Mitch Brown to score.

Bulldog's Tony Williams attempts to bust the tackle of Knight's Jarrod Mullen. Pic: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

Mullen also rose to the challenge in only his third match back from a hamstring injury, with the Newcastle five-eighth's left boot and decision making steadying the Knights against an early Bulldogs onslaught.

Bulldogs coach Hasler said he expects Reynolds to be in the Blues line-up.

"I think the way it is and the way he's been playing, Josh deserves to be in the 17 somewhere," Hasler said.

"We'll just have to wait and see."

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Bennett also endorsed Mullen's performance, saying: "He's a much more mature player and a real linch pin in our team. He's only in his third game back, two of them have been outstanding and one was good."

A physical match also saw a fiery ending, with Newcastle centre Joey Leilua and Bulldogs backrower Josh Jackson almost coming to blows.

BULLDOGS 16 (M Brown S Kasiano A Tolman tries T Hodkinson 2 goals) bt NEWCASTLE 12 (J McManus R Rochow tries T Roberts 2 goals) at ANZ Stadium. Referee: Alan Shortall, Henry Perenara. Crowd: 15,286.

Re-live the action in our blog below:


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DCE puts Manly in seventh heaven

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HE wears number seven, set up seven tries and had Manly fans in seventh heaven.

The only thing missing for Daly Cherry Evans on Sunday was an Australian Test jumper with the No. 7 on it.

Cherry-Evans was involved in no less than seven of Manly's nine tries tries as his rampant Sea Eagles demolished Canberra 54-18 to remain equal first on the NRL competition table.

It was a solo effort that reminded many of the great Andrew Johns. Manly actually led Canberra 42-0 after only 33 minutes. It was the Brookvale Bloodbath.

And Cherry-Evans was unstoppable. He ran, he kicked, he passed. Everything he did turned to gold.

Daly Cherry-Evans put on an absolute masterclass for the Sea Eagles. Pic: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

Can he now be rated the best halfback in rugby league?

If not for the fierce loyalty of Kangaroos selectors, Cherry-Evans' performance would surely have been enough to usurp Cooper Cronk as Australia's starting halfback.

Instead, he had to settle for a spot on the Kangaroos' interchange bench for Friday night's Test match against New Zealand at Allianz Stadium.

Not far behind Cherry-Evans was centre Peta Hiku, who scored four tries. Others Manly legends to score four tries in a match include Bob Fulton, Ken Irvine and Steve Menzies.

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But Cherry-Evans was withour peer, despite missing his halves partner Kieran Foran through injury.

"I was very fortunate today to be involved in a lot of the play," Cherry-Evans said. "I think it was just the way it all panned out. It wasn't planned to be like that.

"A lot of hard work from my inside men and the forward pack. They did a great job and I am really grateful for the way they set-up the match.

"We executed really well and obviously needed the Canberra side to be a bit off-guard and that was the case. We have gone six (wins) from eight (games) so it is definitely a pass mark for the first third of the season.

"It's a good platform to hopefully build on and stay in that top four where we want to finish after round 26."

Manly prop Jason King was full of praise for his halfback.

Peta Hiku scores one of his four tries in Manly's rout over Canberra. Pic: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

"He is one of the best (halfbacks) in the competition, that's for sure," King said.

"Daly directs us around the park really well and has a bit of that x-factor. He can really carry the ball as well.

"He has definitely comes a long way since he debuted at the start of 2011."

Manly embarrassed the Raiders yesterday.

Tries came in the fourth minute, sixth, ninth, 15th, 24th, 29th and 33rd. It was uttter carnage.

The game deteriorated slightly in the second half, which Canberra won 14-12.

"Everything we threw up, stuck," said Manly coach Geoff Toovey.

"Sometimes that happens. The first half was really professional.

"It was a really good display overall. It was an all-round polished performance."

Raiders coach Ricky Stuart praised Manly's winning culture.

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"We've been 'up' for every game," Stuart said. "Nearly every team has probably had a down week. This was our down week.

"The mob we played, they don't have a down week. They are a very tough, professional footy team.

"We have to learn of that type of culture."

At the urging of a Facebook campaign, Manly fans stood in the 13th minute - the number worn by departing Glenn Stewart - and applauded their star back-rower.

"I didn't notice that. We were obviously caught in the moment playing footy but it is a wonderful tribute to him," Cherry-Evans said. "Very deserving."

Manly debutant Jack Littlejohn - who replaced the dropped David Williams - performed admirably. Jamie Lyon sustained a knee injured but will be available for Manly's next match against Melbourne.

MANLY 54 (P Hiku 4 B Lawrence J Lyon B Stewart J Taufua A Watmough tries J Lyon 7 S Matai 2 goals) bt CANBERRA 18 (J Croker J McCrone R Robinson J Wighton tries J Croker goal) at Brookvale Oval. Referee: Jared Maxwell, Chris James. Crowd: 8,817.

RE-LIVE THE THRASHING AS IT HAPPENED WITH OUR NRL SUNDAY LIVE BLOG BELOW!


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LIVE: Battle for top, Hawks lead

Written By Unknown on Minggu, 27 April 2014 | 14.23

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HAWTHORN leads Richmond by 26 points at the main change despite wasteful kicking at goal.

The Hawks have had 15 scoring shots for 6.9 (45) compared to 3.1 (19).

Matt McDonough (Rich) and Jonathan Simpkin (Hawks) are the starting substitutes.

FOR LIVE HQ COVERAGE WITH SUPERCOACH SCORES CLICK ON THE SCORE CENTRE ABOVE OR HERE IF YOU ARE ON A MOBILE DEVICE

Earlier today, Adelaide defeated the Western Bulldogs by nine points in a seesawing affair at Etihad Stadium.

The Bulldogs came out firing, booting the first four goals of the match, before the Crows regained control after halftime.

But, there was another lead change to come as a Luke Dahlhaus inspired comeback put the Bulldogs in the box seat midway through the final term.

Innacuracy cost the Dogs in the end as Dahlhaus and Lachie Hunter both hit the post, while at the other end of the ground Josh Jenkins and Eddie Betts kicked truly to seal the result.

THE HALF-TIME REPORT

SUPERCOACH STUDS AND DUDS

The Hawthorn and Richmond game will be followed by a top-of-the-table clash between the Power and Geelong.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 27: James Podsiadly and Matt Crouch (L) of the Crows celebrate a goal during the round six AFL match between the Western Bulldogs and the Adelaide Crows at Etihad Stadium on April 27, 2014 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

SUNDAY'S MATCHES:

1.10pm — Western Bulldogs v Adelaide (Etihad Stadium)

3.20pm — Richmond v Hawthorn (MCG)

4.40pm — Port Adelaide v Geelong (Adelaide Oval)


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Comeback Crows see off Bulldogs

Rory Sloane (right) celebrates kicking a last quarter goal with teammate Rory Laird. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Michael Klein / News Corp Australia

WESTERN Bulldogs coach Brendan McCartney was preaching a message of team defence last week.

The Bulldogs produced their best football when every member of the team was contributing defensively, he said.

Coming up against a side that had kicked 41 goals in its past two matches, that seemed like the challenge that McCartney's men faced at Etihad Stadium against the Crows on Sunday.

But if there were any fears the match would be a defensive slog, they were quickly dispelled by the Bulldogs themselves.

Playing open and attacking footy, the Bulldogs kicked the first four goals of the game to get a scoreboard jump on the high-scoring Crows.

But it was an attacking start the Bulldogs were unable to sustain for the match.

They fell asleep for the next two quarters before a late, but ultimately unsuccessful, charge in a final-quarter shootout.

With the recalled Tom Campbell providing a strong forward target early, the Bulldogs dominated the early stages of the game to take a 26-10 quarter-time lead.

It took the Crows 25 minutes before they got their first major on the board when David Mackay goaled on the run.

Patrick Dangerfield was instrumental in helping the Crows get back into the game. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

But it didn't take the Crows long to get their scoring groove on once their midfield stars clicked into gear.

With Scott Thompson and Patrick Dangerfield winning the ball and providing the drive, and James Podsiadly coming into the game, the Crows outscored the Bulldogs four goals to two in the second quarter to slash the margin to four points at half-time.

Where the Bulldogs led the Crows in the contested possession count 39-31 in the first quarter, the Crows were now dominating in that area, in their favour 73-66 at the main break.

The Bulldogs, having scored their last goal at the eight-minute mark of the second quarter, managed just one behind in the third quarter as Adelaide piled on seven unanswered goals.

Koby Stevens was dangerous at times for the Bulldogs as they shot to an early lead. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

With little action forward, the Bulldogs moved Liam Jones into defence on Podsiadly, who brought up his third goal for the match, while Campbell was subbed out of the game.

Veteran Daniel Giansiracusa, who started on the ground rather than with the green vest, provided a spark for his team right on three-quarter time when he took down Dangerfield with a hip and shoulder on the Doug Hawkins wing.

The Crows remonstrated as Dangerfield got to his feet gingerly, but as the Crows went to the final break with a 16-point buffer, it was a clash that might have helped inject some fight into the Bulldogs' game.

The contest came to life in the final term, with the Bulldogs starting with an intensity that had been lacking for a quarter and a half.

Tom Campbell flies high for a mark. The Bulldog looked dangerous early before being subbed out. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

After Josh Jenkins scored his second goal for the game, the Bulldogs kicked three straight goals through Stewart Crameri, Luke Dahlhaus and Giansiracusa to cut the margin to five points as the final quarter turned into a shootout.

After just two goals in the previous two quarters, the Dogs outscored the Crows six goals to five in the final quarter.

The Dogs missed a couple more opportunities when Lachie Hunter and Dahlhaus both hit the post late in the term when the team trailed by just nine, and then eight, points.

Eddie Betts sealed the win for the Crows when he pounced on a ball coming out of the Dogs' kick-in.

Rory Sloane played an enormous last quarter to help the Crows get over the line. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

Dangerfield, who the Bulldogs gave the big assignment of playing on to Lin Jong, and Thompson, with 29 and 24 disposals respectively, led the midfield charge for the Crows, while their forwards all had an impact.

With Taylor Walker closing in on a return, Tom Lynch had two goals and 25 disposals and Jenkins and Podsiadly each had three for the match.

It was a case of too little, too late for the Dogs, who were led by Matthew Boyd (33 disposals), Jack Macrae (27 disposals), while Tory Dickson had three goals.

SCOREBOARD

Adelaide 13.14 (92) def Adelaide 12.11 (83)

BEST

Western Bulldogs: Boyd, Macrae, Cooney, Griffen, Dickson, Liberatore

Adelaide: Dangerfield, Lynch, Thompson, Podsiadly, Jenkins, Lynch, Sloane

VOTES

3. Dangerfield

2. Lynch

1. Thompson

A disappointed Bulldogs team walks off Etihad Stadium after going down to the Crows. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia


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