Angland enjoying his Time in Brisbane

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NEWLY returned jockey Tye Angland continued his happy association with Brisbane as Time For War sank favourite backers in Saturday's BRC Sires Produce Stakes at Doomben.

In direct contrast to what happened a fortnight earlier, Time For War jumped cleanly with the blinkers on, while Brazen Beau dwelt slightly and found himself at least three lengths further back than connections expected.

Nash Rawiller said Brazen Beau did a "bunny hop" at the start and had little doubt he should have won.

Rawiller still thought he could win at the top of the straight and was surprised that Time For War didn't come back to him more quickly.

Angland had a career breakthrough when he won the 2009 Stradbroke on Black Piranha before embarking on a successful four year stint in Hong Kong.

Angland rode 136 winners during his four years in Hong Kong and is fourth on the premiership this season with 48 winners, but said the time was right to come home.

"I've been lucky enough to have been thrown a few good ones in Brisbane and I'm thankful to Darby Racing for putting faith in me to ride this horse," he said.

A happy Tye Angland acknowledges the crowd as he returns to scale on Time For War. Source: News Corp Australia

Darby Racing has been syndicating horses for seven years and has a strong presence in Queensland via the Stewart Mackinnon Stable.

Scott Darby said this was the biggest success in the outfit's history and he's now looking forward to "going after that elusive Group 1" when Time For War runs in the J.J. Atkins in a fortnight.

It completed a feature race double for absent trainer Gerald Ryan, who won this race in 2011 with Hot Snitzel.

Tony Gollan said Looks Like The Cat had to be ridden outside his comfort zone and was more than satisfied with him running third.

"The plan was to give him a squeeze out of the gates and see how it panned out. He was obviously going to have to be very deep, Damian had to keep going on with it," Gollan said.

"He found the line good late. I'd suggest he is just looking for the bigger straight of Eagle Farm. The other day you saw the same thing. He hit that bit of a flat spot on the corner.

"He is looking forward to getting to Eagle Farm. Hopefully we draw an alley and we can lock him away and you will see the best of him."

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Jack makes an 11-goal statement

Jack Riewoldt celebrates another goal with Shaun Hampson (left) and Ben Griffiths. Source: Ryan Pierse / Getty Images

JACK Riewoldt made his most positive statement of a tumultuous week by kicking a career-best 11 goals for a rejuvenated Richmond on Saturday in a 113-point flogging of Greater Western Sydney.

Riewoldt kicked 11.2 as the Tigers strolled to a 24.10 (154) to 5.11 (41) victory at Spotless Stadium and improved its season record to 3-6.

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The Tigers' spearhead provided the perfect response after coach Damien Hardwick slammed him earlier in the week for saying Richmond had unsuccessfully tried to copy Hawthorn's game style.

"I was pretty devastated with how it came across. I let the coach down; I let the side down," Riewoldt said.

"Today I was coming in with the mindset of just trying to pay the faith back in Dimma (Hardwick) and the boys and the footy club."

Jack Riewoldt celebrates a goal in the first half. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

Riewoldt, whose previous best haul was 10 against West Coast at the MCG in 2010, kicked four in the first quarter, three in the second, four in the third, before missing his two shots in the last quarter and potentially gave up another goal to skipper Trent Cotchin.

GWS scored little more than half of Riewoldt's tally as the Giants crashed to a sixth straight loss.

Playing their first game at Spotless Stadium in seven weeks, GWS — which started with the same 2-6 record as Richmond — was on the wrong end of a 100-point plus margin for a second straight game.

Riewoldt marks on his chest. Source: Getty Images

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick said his message to Riewoldt before the game was to improve his chasing and tackling.

"Jack will always play well offensively, I thought his defensive work was very good and he got the reward offensively."

Hardwick said he was happier the Tigers were able to move the ball quicker as they shredded the Giants in transition.

Trent Cotchin and Dustin Martin have their hands full. Source: Getty Images

"The thing we've got to do is get a consistent four-quarter effort, which is what we're looking for.

"I was probably a little disappointed with how the last quarter finished off, but that will give us something to work on this week."

The Giants again showed alarmingly little fight following a 110-point loss to West Coast in Perth, where Eagles forward Josh Kennedy also kicked 11 goals.

Tigers coach Damien Hardwick finds a reason to smile after a tough week. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

Richmond kicked 13 straight goals after the two teams exchanged the first two majors of the match, with GWS not kicking their second six-pointer until the second minute of the third quarter.

The Tigers' first 12 scoring shots were goals, as they kicked 8.0 to 1.5 in the first quarter, then doubled their 37-point advantage by halftime after booting 6.2 to 0.1 in the second.

The Giants threatened a revival of sorts when Rhys Palmer and Jeremy Cameron, who started the game down back, kicked successive goals to trim the deficit to 62 early in the third term.

But the Tigers slammed on the next seven goals, four of them to Riewoldt, to swell their buffer to 103 points at the last change.

Jack Riewoldt enjoys the win with Reece Conca. Source: Getty Images

Even the return of several key players and more than 450 games of AFL experience couldn't help GWS against a fiercely determined Richmond who revived their season.

With Shaun Hampson dominating the returning Shane Mumford in the ruck and their midfield running riot, Richmond looked more like the side that charged to the finals last year than the insipid outfit of recent weeks.

Graphic by Champion Data. Source: Supplied

Graphic by Champion Data. Source: Supplied

Richmond dominated despite losing Dan Jackson to an early injury, with substitute Nathan Foley kicking a goal within 30 seconds of coming on to start the second quarter.

Hardwick said he wasn't sure if Jackson had suffered a corked thigh or a more severe muscle injury.

Heath Shaw was one of six opponents asked to troy to stop Jack Riewoldt. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

Young Tiger Ben Lennon leads Stephen Coniglio to the footy. Source: Getty Images

Bachar Houli enjoys a win in his 100th game with daughter Sarah. Source: Getty Images

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AFL Teams: Giants load up on experience

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GREATER Western Sydney has loaded up with seven inclusions boasting 460 games' experience as it threatens to pile more pain on vulnerable Richmond in tomorrow's clash at Spotless Stadium.

The Giants welcomed back premiership ruckman Shane Mumford, All-Australian Jeremy Cameron, prized youngsters Adam Treloar and Curtly Hampton and experienced defenders Dylan Addison and Stephen Gilham.

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GWS has not lost in Sydney this year and fielded a similar side when it stunned the Swans in Round 1.

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Coach Leon Cameron last night said his side had missed Mumford's aggression and ruck work during his absence with a knee injury, while tagger Jacob Townsend also won a reprieve and could line up on sore Tigers skipper Trent Cotchin.

Gilham, a former Hawk, has not played this year and is expected to man under fire Tiger Jack Riewoldt.

"It's going to be a really tough game. Their backs are against the wall after their performance against Melbourne," Cameron said.

Jack Riewoldt has retained his spot in Richmond's side, despite his controverial midweek comments about his team's game plan. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: News Corp Australia

Hawthorn recalled Luke Hodge and hardnut Brad Sewell, who has not played since last year's premiership, as it strives to reclaim first place on the ladder against Port Adelaide.

Damaging midfielder Liam Shiels and ruckman Jon Ceglar were also named as coach Alastair Clarkson was forced to replace Cyril Rioli (hamstring), Josh Gibson (shoulder) and Jarryd Roughead (suspended).

Sewell gathered 22 disposals and laid nine tackles in the VFL last week.

The Power replaced former Hawks ruckman Brent Renouf with rising star Matthew Lobbe.

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North Melbourne named veteran defender Michael Firrito at the expense of Scott McMahon for tonight's clash against Geelong at Simonds Stadium.

Firrito was the villain in last year's Round 2 encounter, giving away a clumsy 50m penalty to gift Jimmy Bartel the winning goal.

Geelong replaced suspended star Steve Johnson with ball magnet Mat Stokes, who returns from a one-game ban, while Jesse Stringer was named for his first game this season for the omitted Taylor Hunt.

Collingwood finally recalled key defender Nathan Brown, along with Alex Fasolo, for tomorrow's clash against West Coast.

The Pies dropped Sam Dwyer and Lachie Keeffe, while the Eagles Mark LeCras (suspended) with Josh Hill as they aim to beat Collingwood at the MCG for the first time since 1995.

Adelaide dropped young gun Matt Crouch in the only change for Sunday's clash against Carlton as Jarrod Lyons comes into the team.

The Blues also made just one change with Jarrad Waite returning in place of the suspended Mitch Robinson.

The Western Bulldogs made five changes as they look for an upset win over Gold Coast.

Brett Goodes, Jordan Roughead, Koby Stevens, Clay Smith and Marcus Bontempelli come in for Liam Jones, Tom Williams, Jason Johannisen, Lachie Hunter and Tory Dickson.

The Suns made just one change, welcoming back Kade Kolodjashnij in place of Alex Sexton.

ROUND 10

GEELONG v NORTH MELBOURNE

Friday 23 May at Simonds Stadium, 7.50pm (EST)

CATS

B: J.Rivers, T.Lonergan, C.Enright

HB: A.Mackie, H.Taylor, C.Guthrie

C: M.Blicavs, J.Selwood, M.Duncan

HF: T.Varcoe, H.McIntosh, M.Stokes

F: J.Murdoch, T.Hawkins, J.Bartel

Foll: D.Simpson, J.Kelly, G.Horlin-Smith

INT: J.Bews, J.Sheringham, S.Motlop, J.Stringer

Emer: T.Hunt, J.Jansen, J.Walker

Ins: M.Stokes, J.Stringer

Outs S.Johnson (suspended), T.Hunt

ROOS

B: L.McDonald, J.Tippett, L.Hansen

HB: N.Dal Santo, S.Thompson, L.Greenwood

C: S.Gibson, A.Swallow, R.Nahas

HF: L.Thomas, A.Black, L.Adams

F: M.Daw, D.Petrie, B.Harvey

Foll: T.Goldstein, J.Ziebell, B.Cunnington

Int: R.Bastinac, M.Firrito, S.Atley, S.Wright

Emer: L.Anthony, S.McMahon, M.Wood

Ins: M.Firrito

Outs S.McMahon

Jeremy Cameron returns for GWS. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

GWS GIANTS v RICHMOND

Saturday 24 May at Spotless Stadium, 1.40pm (EST)

GIANTS

B: J.Cameron, S.Gilham, C.Hampton

HB: A.Kennedy, A.Corr, H.Shaw

C: T.Scully, J.Townsend, A.Tomlinson

HF: W.Hoskin-Elliott, J.Patton, L.Whitfield

F: D.Addison, J.Giles, D.Smith

R: S.Mumford, R.Palmer, C.Ward

I/C: D.Shiel, S.Coniglio, J.Kelly, A.Treloar

Emergencies: Z.Williams, K.Jaksch, J.Hunt

In: S.Mumford, J.Cameron, A.Treloar, C.Hampton, D.Addison, J.Townsend, S.Gilham

Out: T.Greene (suspended), N.Haynes (ankle), M.Buntine, S.Frost, J.Lamb, J.Hunt, A.Phillips (omitted)

TIGERS

B: T.Chaplin, D.Grimes, A.Rance

HB: B.Houli, B.Lennon, S.Morris

C: S.Grigg, D.Jackson, R.Conca

HF: D.Martin, B.Griffiths, B.Deledio

F: S.Edwards, J.Riewoldt, T.Vickery

R: S.Hampson, B.Ellis, T.Cotchin

IC: M.McDonough, M.Dea, N.Foley, M.Thomas

Em: R.Petterd, A.Miles, S.Lloyd

In: D.Grimes, M.Dea, M.Thomas

Out: D.Astbury (inj – dislocated kneecap), N.Vlastuin (inj – broken finger), S.Lloyd (omitted)

COLLINGWOOD v WEST COAST

Saturday 24 May at MCG, 4.40pm (EST)

MAGPIES

B: N.Maxwell, J.Frost, A.Toovey

HB: H.Lumumba, N.Brown, T.Langdon

C: C.Young, B.Macaffer, S.Sidebottom

HF: J.Blair, J.White, L.Ball

F: J.Elliott, T.Cloke, D.Swan

Foll: B.Grundy, D.Beams, S.Pendlebury

Int: A.Fasolo, T.Goldsack, M.Williams, J.Witts

Emg: S.Dwyer, L.Keeffe, J.Thomas

IN: N.Brown, A.Fasolo

OUT: S.Dwyer, L.Keeffe

EAGLES

B: E.Mackenzie, D.Glass, J.Bennell

HB: E.Yeo, M.Brown, X.Ellis

C: S.Hurn, M.Priddis, C.Masten

HF: J.Cripps, J.Darling, S.Wellingham

F: J.Hill, JJ.Kennedy, N.Naitanui

Foll: D.Cox, S.Selwood, L.Shuey

INT: A.Gaff, M.Hutchings, M.Rosa, B.Sheppard

Emer: W.Schofield, S.Butler, P.McGinnity

Ins J.Hill

Outs M.LeCras (suspended)

Collingwood has finally included Nathan Brown. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

PORT ADELAIDE v HAWTHORN

Saturday 24 May at Adelaide Oval, 7.40pm (EST)

POWER

FB: J.Hombsch, A.Carlile, J.Impey

HB: M.Broadbent, J.Trengove, J.Pittard

C: J.Polec, T.Boak, K.Cornes

HF: A.Young, J.Westhoff, A.Monfries

FF: R.Gray, J.Schulz, C.Wingard

Foll: M.Lobbe, O.Wines, B.Ebert

I/C: H.Hartlett, M.White, D.Cassisi, K.Mitchell

Emg:: P.Stewart, J.Neade, B.Newton

IN: M.Lobbe

OUT: B.Renouf (omitted)

HAWTHORN

B: M.Suckling R.Schoenmakers T.Duryea

HB: W.Langford B.Stratton G.Birchall

C: J.Lewis L.Hodge L.Shiels

HF: I.Smith J.Gunston B.Hill

F: P.Puopolo D.Hale L.Breust

Foll: B.McEvoy B.Sewell S.Burgoyne

I/C: M.Hallahan J.Ceglar B.Hartung J.Simpkin

Emerg: K.Cheney A.Woodward T.O'Brien

IN: L.Hodge, B.Sewell, L.Shiels, J.Ceglar

OUT: J.Roughead (Suspension), J.Gibson (Shoulder), C.Rioli (Hamstring), K.Cheney (Omitted)

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GOLD COAST SUNS v WESTERN BULLDOGS

Sunday 25 May at Metricon Stadium, 3.20pm (EST)

SUNS

B: K.Kolodjashnij, S.May, G.Broughton

HB: S.Lemmens, R.Thompson, T.McKenzie

C: J.Harbrow, G.Ablett, M.Rischitelli

HF: A.Hall, TJ.Lynch, D.Stanley

F: C.Dixon, S.Day, B.Matera

Foll: Z.Smith, J.O'Meara, D.Prestia

I/C: H.Bennell, L.Russell, M.Shaw, D.Swallow

Emg: A.Sexton, J.Taylor, J.Hutchins

INS: K.Kolodjashnij

OUTS: A.Sexton

BULLDOGS

B: L.Picken, J.Roughead, E.Wood

HB: S.Higgins, D.Morris, R.Murphy

C: A.Cooney, R.Griffen, J.Macrae

HF: D.Giansiracusa, J.Stringer, J.Tutt

F: L.Dahlhaus, S.Crameri, F.Roberts

Foll: W.Minson, M.Boyd, T.Liberatore

I/C: M.Bontempelli, C.Smith, K.Stevens, B.Goodes

Emg: N.Hrovat, M. Wallis, L.Hunter

INS: B.Goodes, J.Roughead, K.Stevens, C.Smith, M.Bontempelli

OUTS: T.Williams (calf), L.Jones (suspension), J.Johannisen, T.Dickson (pectoral)

Hawthorn skipper Luke Hodge returns. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

CARLTON v ADELAIDE

Sunday 25 May at Etihad Stadium, 4.40pm (EST)

BLUES

B: A.Everitt, M.Jamison, S.Rowe

HB: Z.Tuohy, A.Walker, D.Buckley

C: K.Simpson, B.Gibbs, J.Garlett

HF: L.Casboult, M.Murphy, C.Yarran Forwards L.Henderson, D.Armfield, T.Menzel Foll: Foll: R.Warnock, B.McLean, D.Thomas

I/C: S.Docherty, D.Ellard, J.Waite, S.White

Emg: J.Cachia, A.Carrazzo, B.Johnson

IN: J.Waite

OUT: Mitch Robinson (suspension)

CROWS

B: K.Hartigan, B.Rutten, L.Brown

HB: B.Smith, D.Talia, M.Jaensch

C: R.Sloane, S.Thompson, D.Mackay

HF: S.Kerridge, J.Jenkins, C.Cameron

F: J.Podsiadly, T.Walker, E.Betts

Foll: S.Jacobs, P.Dangerfield, R.Douglas

I/C: M.Wright, R.Laird, J.Lyons, B.Martin

Emg: A.Otten, M.Grigg, M.Crouch

In: J.Lyons

Out: M.Crouch

Bye: Brisbane, Essendon, Fremantle, Melbourne, St Kilda, Sydney

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Cats v Roos: 10 things to look out for

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BRING BACK BAAAAAAAAAALLLLL!

Holding the ball is one of the great rules of our game.

The crowd loves it, the umpires love it and the laws of the game committee should love it for its ability to reduce congestion.

However, last week it was nowhere to be seen.

On countless occasions in the Melbourne and Richmond game players were caught red-handed, failed to dispose of the ball properly and play on was the call.

It seems that if the ball spills — no matter how the player gets rid of it — then the call is play on.

We expect a tightening of this interpretation tonight.

Also, watch out for a new tactic players are using to avoid being pinged from diving on the ball when on the bottom of a stack of players. Superfooty understands players are being coached to roll onto their backs and push the ball away from them to force a ball up. Clever.

Former steeplechaser Mark Blicavs could be matched with Majak Daw. Source: News Limited

IN THE FAST LANE

WHO can forget the 2012 Grand Final when Swans speedster Lewis Jetta showed Hawk Cyril Rioli a clean pair of heels on the outer wing at the MCG?

Here's hoping the Simonds Stadium faithful get to see a similar match race between two of the league's most intriguing prospects.

We know big Roo Majak Daw, if given the space, is not one to shy away from taking on an opponent, let's hope it's Cat steeplechaser-turned-ruckman Mark Blicavs in the pursuit.

The 23-year-olds are evenly matched with Blicavs having the height edge (198cm-195cm) while Daw two kilograms heavier (97kg-95kg).

Jetta burns away from Rioli in the 2012 Grand Final. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: News Limited

TIME TO FARM MCDONALD?

The next few games are crucial to Luke McDonald's future in more than 106,000 SuperCoach teams.

He's been a loyal defender since making his debut in Round 1, earning $108,900 for those who have held onto him and is coming off his second best score for the season (90).

His breakeven this week is just 70, however as the season progresses and premium defenders become available most are waiting for the right time to trade.

Is McDonald on the way up or has he hit a plateau? He hasn't looked a natural ball winner yet, tonight's game could be decisive.

There isn't a plethora of quality SuperCoach defenders, so another 90 plus game could secure his future for another few weeks at least.

Hamish McIntosh is excited about coming up against his old side. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

H-MAC IN ROOS' SIGHTS

EXPECT Brent Harvey to be champing at the bit to attend the opening bounce, not only for the chance to win the first clearance, but to give former teammate Hamish McIntosh heaps of stick.

McIntosh spent 10 years at Arden St before losing his position as the no. 1 big man due to injuries and the emergence of Todd Goldstein.

With best mate and Kangaroos defender Nathan Grima out injured, Harvey, Michael Firrito and Lachie Hansen will be left to shoulder the trash-talk load. Game on!

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HISTORY NOT ON DREW'S SIDE

LIKE many big key forwards, Drew Petrie has struggled to hit the scoreboard in 2014. Petrie has kicked just seven goals in eight games this season and resorted to stealing from a teammate to beef up his tally against Brisbane last week.

Petrie will be hoping to get his season back on track with a big bag under lights tonight; however his form against the Cats doesn't bode well for a big night out.

Since 2005 Petrie has kicked just 15 goals in 12 games against Geelong.

THOMMO NO SCAREDY CAT

AT the other end of the ground Tom Hawkins looks back to his best after overcoming a chronic back injury that plagued his 2013 season.

Tomahawk will earn every goal he kicks against All-Australian full back Scott Thompson tonight in what is sure to be a very physical match up.

The points are split in their previous four encounters with Hawkins kicking bags of three and four while Thompson has held to a single major twice.

Thompson has earned a reputation for inciting his opponents, no matter what their size, so he won't have any issues inciting the Tomahawk.

Geelong tagger Cam Guthrie keeping Nat Fyfe in check. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

GUTHRIE v BOOMER

GEELONG tagger Cam Guthrie is building a reputation as one of the best stoppers in the business behind Fremantle's Ryan Crowley.

Tonight, the 21-year-old has a golden opportunity to get one-up on the Docker pest by stopping Boomer Harvey in his tracks.

But it's not going to be easy, Harvey, fresh off his game-high 39 disposals last week, is averaging 25 possessions and a goal a game in his 19th season.

For what it's worth, Harvey piled on 29 disposals — 10 contested — on Crowley in Round 6.

WILL SPUD HEAR THE WHISTLE?

LUCKY North's not playing at Adelaide Oval because Michael Firrito would have no chance of hearing the umpire's whistle.

The veteran defender gets his chance to make amends tonight after giving up a 50m penalty to complete Geelong's come-from-behind win over North in Round 2 last year.

The Cats clawed their way back from a seven-goal deficit to win by four points after Firrito kicked the ball out of a stoppage situation.

Unfortunately for Firrito and North Melbourne, the umpire had already blown his whistle paying an in-the-back free kick to Jimmy Bartel.

Bartel, like he has done so many times before, made no mistake from close range.

Cats coach Chris Scott will be looking over his shoulder for twin brother Brad. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

TWIN ENVY

BLOOD is thicker than water and this is certainly the case for coaching twins, Brad and Chris Scott.

But, there might be a little bit of extra needle between the two when their sides meet tonight with Chris elevated to the Brisbane Lions hall of fame during the week and Brad overlooked.

The ledger is two apiece since Chris started coaching Geelong in 2011 and after the two sides have shared pre-season training sessions over the past few years, they know each other extremely well.

PERTH HANGOVER?

CAN Geelong buck the trend and join Gold Coast (twice) and Port Adelaide as the only teams to win the week after playing in Perth?

At least history is on the side of the Cats, having won 50 of their past 54 games at Simonds Stadium.

The Cats are coming off a tough loss to Fremantle, while North benefits from its soft win over embattled Brisbane.

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NRL 360 LIVE from Suncorp

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FOX SPORTS will give fans the ultimate State of Origin preview and capture the atmosphere of game day with an unprecedented NRL 360 Origin Preview broadcast LIVE from Suncorp Stadium.

At the special time of 6.30PM EST, rugby league's odd couple Ben Ikin and Paul Kent will be on air LIVE in an episode featuring a host of Origin greats including Steve Renouf and Blues coach Laurie Daley, as well as FOX SPORTS commentators Kevin Walters, Scott Prince, Bryan Fletcher and Mark Gasnier.

Deep in Maroons territory, the panellists will be able to feel the intensity of a parochial Caxton St crowd as they tackle all the big talking points, hear from both camps and break any last-minute news ahead of kick-off.

NRL 360 will be broadcast live from Suncorp Stadium. Source: FoxSports

Fans close to Brisbane are invited to get down to the Suncorp Stadium forecourt to join the live audience, with pre-game activity kicking off at 5.45pm with a live Q & A involving Nathan Hindmarsh, Bryan Fletcher, Scott Prince and Mark Gasnier.

For those new to the show, NRL 360 examines the big issues, breaks news and reveals the story behind the story each week at the regular timeslot of 7.30PM EST on FOX SPORTS 1.

Fans close to Brisbane are invited to get down to the Suncorp Stadium forecourt to join the live audience, with pre-game activity kicking off at 5.45pm with a live Q & A involving Nathan Hindmarsh, Bryan Fletcher, Scott Prince and Mark Gasnier.

In a special competition for diehard fans who may have missed out on a seat, FOX SPORTS will give one lucky fan in the live audience two of the last tickets in town. So head down from 5:45pm, grab your entry ticket and go in the draw for the chance to win.

For those new to the show, NRL 360 examines the big issues, breaks news and reveals the story behind the story each week at the regular timeslot of 7.30PM EST on FOX SPORTS 1."

Competition entrants must be aged 18 years and over. Entries close at 7:15pm AEST. Transport to and from Suncorp Stadium not included.

For Terms & Conditions click here: http://www.foxsports.com.au/win/nrl360

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Tahs’ tricky task; Bulls await Brumbies

Kurtley Beale played a starring role in the Tahs' victory over the Rebels earlier this season. Source: Mark Evans / News Corp Australia

THE focus quickly returns to Super Rugby this weekend after Australia and South Africa announced squads for the June Test series, and New Zealand conducted an All Blacks camp.

Round 15 looms as another blockbuster with key derbies on both sides of the Tasman and perhaps the game of the round in Pretoria.

Read on for a full preview of round 15!

Blues v Sharks

5.35pm EST Friday, North Harbour Stadium, Albany, Fox Sports 2HD

A fine opener to round 15 of Super Rugby sees the Blues take a home game away from their Eden Park fortress and up the road to North Harbour Stadium in Albany.

It's good to see the Auckland-based franchise recognise the outer limits of their region but then again, this is the same team that is winless on the road for 14 games.

They've also lost nine in a row against the Sharks in an incredible run all the way back to 2005. Worried yet, Blues fans?

It's not all bad news however as inspirational skipper Luke Braid is finally fit and returns to a powerful backrow alongside Jerome Kaino and Peter Saili. The backline lacks experience but has talent, meaning Ma'a Nonu will need to assert his dominance from inside centre.

Making their way to Albany are the Sharks who are probably still riding the high of last weekend's incredible victory over the Crusaders.

Sharks fly half Frans Steyn set up a wonderful try in Christchurch last weekend. Source: AFP

Coach Jake White has made just one forced change in promoting Jacques Botes for the suspended Jean Deysel, whose 16th minute red card in Christchurch started amazing events at AMI Stadium.

White will probably have already rated the tour a success having secured nine points from a possible 15 but a win this weekend would be the perfect launching pad for their run home back in the Republic.

Rebels v Waratahs

7.40pm EST Friday, AAMI Park, Melbourne, Fox Sports 2HD

After sitting through an amazing 80 minutes in Christchurch last week, you could have been forgiven for expecting the Reds-Rebels clash to lack a little drama. Wow, how wrong we all were.

The amazing TMO decision reversal that saw Ed O'Donoghue red-carded and the Rebels kick a match-winning penalty in Brisbane had everyone, including Rebels skipper Scott Higginbotham, in disbelief but it also provided Tony McGahan's side with the mid-season lift they needed to fill the role of the giant-killer.

Out of contention for the semis, the Rebels have the ability to disrupt the semi-finals aspirations of a few teams beginning with the Waratahs this weekend.

Michael Cheika's side came to Melbourne at exactly the same stage last year and were sent back to Sydney with their tails between their legs having been outplayed 24-22.

The short-passing skills they showcased against the Reds could well worry the Waratahs although the loss of halfback Luke Burgess may stifle that game plan.

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The Waratahs, too, are coming off a victory having beaten the Lions at Allianz Stadium last Sunday. The short turnaround may play a part in their fortunes though Cheika has been able to call on Jacques Potgieter and Alofa Alofa, who both enjoyed lighter workloads from the bench last weekend.

They also defeated the Rebels in their earlier meeting this year, winning 32-8 in Sydney on the back of a fine second-half from Kurtley Beale and Israel Folau.

The Rebels will be far tougher to topple at AAMI Park however and there looks to be few points between these sides either way.

Bulls v Brumbies

3.10am EST Saturday, Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, Fox Sports 2HD

Shock losers in Bloemfontein last weekend, the Brumbies face another dangerous game in Africa against the improving Bulls.

Having been the third African side to return from Australasia without a win, the Bulls have since recorded derby victories over both the Cheetahs and Stormers to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Far more comfortable at their Loftus Versfeld fortress, the Bulls produced probably their best performance against the Cape Town-based side two weeks ago while the bye allowed them to rest a few weary bodies from an eight-game stretch.

Christian Lealiifano is still searching for his best form since returning from injury. Source: Getty Images

There's further good news with skipper Flip van der Merwe back in the side following a three-week suspension while Jacques-Louis Potgieter slots back into No.10 in place of Handre Pollard.

While it's been the ruin of many a poor boy – excuse us, The Animals – Loftus Versfeld should hold few fears for the Brumbies.

Just 10 months ago they came to the daunting Pretoria venue and walked away with a classic semi-final victory thanks to a last-gasp try from Tevita Kuridrani.

They'll also be all too aware they could slip down to third in the Australian conference with another loss but this is also a team who is yet to suffer back-to-back defeats in 2014.

Highlanders v Crusaders

3.35pm AEST Saturday, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin, Fox Sports 2HD

Just when the Crusaders looked like stamping themselves as the team to beat in Super Rugby, they go and lose at home - to a 14-man Sharks side that had never won in Christchurch.

Instead of travelling to Dunedin as the top-ranked team in New Zealand – and possibly overall – Todd Blackadder's side is now faced with a tricky clash against the tricky Highlanders.

Blackadder has reacted to that shock 30-25 defeat by dumping his entire front-row, as well as recalling All Blacks fullback Israel Dagg and halfback Andy Ellis.

Richie McCaw must rally the Crusaders after last week's defeat to a 14-man Sharks. Source: AFP

The Highlanders jumped above the Crusaders when they ground out a tough 18-16 victory away to the Hurricanes and will fancy their chances of ending a three-game losing streak against the men from Christchurch.

They are boosted by the return of flyhalf Lima Sopoaga, while gun young centre Malakai Fekitoa has been cleared to play after spending the week and the All Black training camp in a moon boot.

Hurricanes v Chiefs

5.35pm AEST Saturday, Westpac Stadium, Wellington, Fox Sports 2HD

The return of two star All Black No.10s headlines a massive New Zealand conference clash in Wellington.

Hurricanes young gun Beauden Barrett hurt his hip in his side's upset loss to the Highlanders last weekend, but has recovered in time for this crunch encounter.

The Chiefs are set to get a massive boost in the frame of Aaron Cruden's return from a thumb injury, which has sidelined him for the past six weeks.

The defending champions haven't exactly struggled in Cruden's absence – they still stop atop the Kiwi conference and third overall on the Super Rugby ladder – and have afforded themselves the luxury of naming the World Cup-winning playmaker on the bench.

That means Gareth Anscombe will again don the No.10 jersey, with coach Dave Rennie reshuffling his backline to allow for the return of winger Asaeli Tikoirotuma and centre Charlie Ngatai. Tim Nanai-Williams switches to fullback and Tom Marshall drops back to the bench.

The past four matches between these sides at Westpac Stadium have been decided by six points or less and with so much on the line – the Hurricanes trail the Chiefs on the ladder by just four points – another tight encounter looms.

Force v Lions

7.40pm AEST Saturday, nib Stadium, Perth, Fox Sports 2HD

A disappointing loss to the Stormers saw the Force drop out of the top six, but they have a great chance to bounce back on Saturday night.

The Lions are winding up their four-game tour of New Zealand and Australia and while they have been far from easybeats on tour they will surely be feeling the toll of all that travel.

They have also lost five straight games to the Force, with their solitary victory coming way back in 2007.

The Force's renowned defensive wall finally cracked under immense pressure from a fired-up Stormers, but they'll back themselves to shut-out a kick-heavy Lions attack.

Ben McCalman looks to be leading the charge to wear the Wallabies No.8 jersey. Source: Getty Images

And Michael Foley's men will be buoyed by the knowledge that their impressive season hasn't gone unnoticed, with five players earning selection in the Wallabies squad to face France.

Included in that number are front-rowers Pek Cowan and Nathan Charles who should be feeling sky-high ahead of a stern challenge against the big Lions pack.

Skipper Matt Hodgson, another Wallabies call-up, will be leading from the front as always as the Force chase an eighth win for the season.

Stormers v Cheetahs

1.05am EST Sunday, Newlands, Cape Town, Fox Sports 2HD

The battle to avoid the wooden spoon hots up this weekend as Stormers and Cheetahs face off for the second time in five weeks.

Just one point separates the 12th-placed Cheetahs from their 13th-placed South African rivals and while wins have been hard to come by for both sides this season, they were both last-start victors in round 14.

The Stormers scored three tries in a 22-8 win over Western Force last Saturday and have received a further morale boost following the inclusion of leaders Schalk Burger and Jean de Villiers.

The Cheetahs' defeat of the Brumbies last week was probably more of a surprise than the Stormers' win but with Johan Goosen finding form and Willie le Roux running freely it's one they will be confident they can repeat.

Expect another strong showing from Heinrich Brussow who was this week recalled to the Springboks squad following a tough few years with injury and non-selection.

The Cheetahs have retained the same starting team that defeated the Brumbies but the Stormers are deserved favourites to overturn the 35-22 loss they suffered in round 11.

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Video: Pollard nabs crazy catch in IPL

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WEST INDIES star Kieron Pollard took a catch that had to be seen to be believed in the Indian Premier League overnight.

The giant all-rounder, playing for Mumbai Indians against a Rajasthan Royals line-up featuring Aussies Shane Watson, James Faulkner and Brad Hodge, held onto a ball that looked certain to sail above him and the boundary rope, and then threw the ball back into the field of play before executing a perfect dive to complete the catch.

Watch the video at the top of the page, and read on for a full summary of the IPL action.

AUSSIES IN ACTION

Michael Hussey returned to the Mumbai line-up and looked a man on a mission, making a robust 56 to lead his side to victory over Rajasthan. The Royals rang the changes, with Steve Smith and Ben Cutting omitted in favour of returning skipper Shane Watson and veteran Brad Hodge. Despite the Royals not claiming a wicket until the 15th over, Watson withheld himself from the bowling attack, clearly struggling with niggles at the back end of his IPL campaign. James Faulkner had a game to forget conceding a mammoth 47 runs from his four overs, but went some way to redeeming that in the run chase with a late 31. Brad Hodge came in at the unusual position of number eight, but that didn't stop him oozing class on his way to 40 form 30 deliveries.

Mike Hussey made a welcome return to form. Picture: Mark Evans. Source: News Limited

The Kings XI also had one eye on the finals in their team selection, electing to rest Aussie spearhead Mitchell Johnson. Both skipper George Bailey and star-man Glenn Maxwell had little impact against Delhi, making 6 and 14 respectively.

MATCH REVIEWS

Rajasthan Royals V Mumbai Indians

Mumbai skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss on what could only be described as the flattest highway in India and wasted no time in tasking Lendl Simmons and opening partner Hussey with setting up a big total. They duly obliged, piling on the Indians' first century opening stand of the tournament. Simmons took a while to wind up, but struck a number of trademark blows over the sightscreen on his way to 62, while Hussey took a liking to the cover and midwicket boundaries in his 56. But when both fell in one Ankit Sharma over, all eyes were on Rohit Sharma and Kieron Pollard to keep the scoring rate rising. Pollard looked scratchy for his 14, but Sharma took a liking to Faulkner's left arm offerings, smashing 40 from 19 balls including 17 from the Aussie's final over as the Indians reached 3/178.

Brad Hodge made the most of his opportunity with Rajasthan Royals. Picture: Norm Oorloff. Source: News Limited

Youngster Karun Nair got the Royals' chase off to a flyer making 48 from 24 deliveries, but a steady flow of wickets meant Rajasthan were always behind the eight ball. A late partnership of 69 from seven overs between Hodge and Faulkner gave the Rajasthan faithful some hope of clinching an unlikely victory, but it was not to be. Harbhajan Singh was at his lethal best, snaring 2/13 from his four overs as the Royals fell 25 runs short.

Delhi Daredevils V Kings XI Punjab

George Bailey put Delhi in to bat at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, fully aware of the home side's inability to defend totals in IPL 2014. Daredevils skipper Kevin Pietersen found some touch on his way to 49 from 32 deliveries, while $2 million man Dinesh Karthik smashed three sixes and seven fours on his way to 69 from 44 balls. But that pair received little support from their teammates as Delhi only managed an on-par total of 164.

Punjab kicked off their reply in trademark style, racing to 0/66 in the Powerplay before emerging star Manan Vohra was knocked over for 42 off just 19 balls. South African spin duo Imran Tahir and JP Duminy began to suffocate the Punjab middle order and give Delhi hope of an unlikely victory, claiming 3/22 and 2/27 respectively. But it was Akshar Patel, the Kings XI's left-arm spinner who had only managed eight runs in five IPL innings in 2014 before last night, who finished the job with a fine 42 not out.

WHAT THEY SAID

"We misread the conditions. I did not think it would turn as much as it did in the second innings. Mumbai's world-class spinners made it very difficult to score." - Shane Watson

"I enjoyed the opening partnership. Lendl is a good striker of the ball. The wicket slowed down as the innings progressed. I have been working in the nets and hoping for another opportunity. We were saying 'no twos.' It was that hard (with the heat), so you either hit a four or a six. It was a pretty good total on that pitch." – Michael Hussey

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The Barometer: Umpire Pannell to miss

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WHO'S hurt, who's hot? We take a look at all 18 teams ahead of Round 10.

AFL UMPIRES

INJURIES

Troy Pannell (concussion) 1 week

ON THE BLOCK: Field umpire Troy Pannell is set to miss this week after being knocked out in last Friday night's clash with Sydney defender Nick Malceski. Pannell, who made his AFL umpiring debut in 2005, was stretchered from the field prompting boos from the crowd. While the crowd's response was criticised from all angles, Pannell said he has no "issue with the booing". "We get booed every week," he told a Melbourne radio station. Pannell was booked to umpire Saturday night's blockbuster between Port Adelaide and Hawthorn at Adelaide Oval. But he's since been alleviated from his duties after reporting ill effects from the incident on the weekend. "Saturday I wasn't great and still a bit scratchy yesterday (Sunday)," he said. Pannell said he had no memory of the seemingly innocuous incident. "Clearly wrong spot, wrong time and then (I was) out like a light from then on."

ADELAIDE

INJURIES

Brad Crouch (leg) 1-2 weeks

Ricky Henderson (leg) 3-4 months

Tom Lynch (broken jaw) 4-6 weeks

Jack Osborn (back) test

Nathan van Berlo (Achilles) 3-4 months

ON THE BLOCK: Brenton Sanderson swung the selection axe after the loss to Melbourne, but after such a strong showing in the win over Collingwood it's hard to foresee any changes this week.

ON THE CUSP: Brent Reilly remains stranded on 199 games and played in the SANFL on the weekend, he along with Jared Pentrenko, Andy Otten, Mitch Grigg and Shaun Mckernan are in contention for a senior recall.

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: The loss to Melbourne aside, Adelaide are in decent form. The Crows looked a different side against Collingwood and with the addition of Taylor Walker the forward line looks at potent as we thought it would. They have won three out of the last four games now and just one game out of the eight. However, the win over Collingwood means nothing if they drop Sunday's game against Carlton. Both sides have shown the ability to play finals football but also the tendency to go through big lapses in games. It's anyone's ball game and if the Crows can travel to the MCG and win then all of a sudden the loss to Melbourne becomes a distant memory and their finals hopes are well and truly alive.

LISTEN TO THE ROUND 9 EPISODE OF THE SUPERFOOTY PODCAST BELOW OR CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE IN ITUNES

SUPERCOACH STUDS AND DUDS

BRISBANE (bye this week)

INJURIES

Matthew Leuenberger (knee) 8 weeks

Stefan Martin (back) available

Ash McGrath (calf) 2 weeks

Daniel Rich (knee) season

Brent Staker (calf) indefinite

Patrick Weardon (ankle) 7 weeks

Matt Maguire (suspended) available

Tom Rockliff (ill) available

Joel Patfull (ill) available

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: The bye couldn't come soon enough for this lot. The young Lions struggled to make any in roads, outplayed from the opening bounce to the final siren. While Tom Rockliff and Joel Patfull were held out with illness, one wonders whether Dayne Zorko and Daniel Merrett had similar problems pre-match. Both failed to impact the contest. The good news is the Lions have three 'winnable' games coming up with Carlton, Western Bulldogs and Greater Western Sydney on the horizon. Young forward Michael Close looks a beauty and has the ultimate of role models on Jonathan Brown to learn from.

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CARLTON

INJURIES

Tom Bell (finger) test

Andrew Carrazzo (back) test

Patrick Cripps (broken fibula) 2 weeks

Ed Curnow (broken leg) 2 weeks

Chris Judd (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

Matthew Kreuzer (foot) 6-8 weeks

Mitch Robinson (suspension) 1 week

Jarrad Waite (back) test

ON THE BLOCK: Mitch Robinson will miss with suspension and Jeff Garlett is likely to come under selection heat after an indifferent performance in the substitute vest against St Kilda.

ON THE CUSP: The Blues should welcome back some key players for the game against Adelaide with Jarrad Waite, Tom Bell and Andrew Carrazzo likely to return and Chris Judd a slim chance. The Northern Blues also had the bye last weekend.

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: This game shapes as a season defining contest for both clubs. It's fair to suggest that if Carlton drop this one at home, it will be 3-6 and facing an uphill battle to make the finals. The Blues will take confidence from their strong win over St Kilda, but face an Adelaide Crows side back on track after a strong win over Collingwood. The fitness of Jarrad Waite is an important factor for Carlton, which needs all talls on deck to cover Adelaide's tall forwards. It's hard to know what to expect from either side here, for the Blues to win they will need to kick enough midfield goals and limit the supply to Adelaide's forward line. Flip of the coin.

An umpire was stretchered from the ground after a clash with Sydney player Nick Malceski. Courtesy: Seven Sport

COLLINGWOOD

INJURIES

Nathan Freeman (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

Corey Gault (collarbone) 6-7 weeks

Quinten Lynch (leg) 4-6 weeks

Adam Oxley (ankle) test

Ben Reid (calf) 2-3 weeks

Matthew Scharenberg (feet) indefinite

Ben Sinclair (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Big men Jarrod Witts and Lachie Keefe are likely to come under selection heat following modest performances against the Crows. Keefe was beaten convincingly by Josh Jenkins (four goals) and Witts offered little up forward on a night when Collingwood was screaming for a mobile forward target.

HEY TRAV, GET ON YA BIKE

ON THE CUSP: After playing four games in the VFL, Nathan Brown is beating down the door and should get his chance against West Coast on Saturday. Alex Fasolo travelled with the side to Adelaide and while rumours of his late inclusion proved false, he is a strong chance to win selection this week. Patrick Karnetzis and Kyle Martin were among the best players in the VFL.

COLLINGWOOD v WEST COAST: PRESS RED FOR ED IS BACK ON FOX FOOTY

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: The loss to the Crows saw Collingwood drop from fourth to eighth and this week's match-up with ninth-placed West Coast is crucial. Since the Round 1 loss to Fremantle, the Pies have hardly put a foot wrong, but there were some concerning signs against Adelaide. The forward line might need a rethink after it looked slow and cumbersome when trailing in the second half. Travis Cloke continues to struggle and when Jesse White and Witts couldn't offer a target there was nothing for the midfield to kick to. Jamie Elliott remains the leading goalkicker and the midfield continues to provide a healthy contribution to the scoreboard. A win sees the Pies cement their position in the eight, but a loss sees them back with the pack. Collingwood should get the job done here.

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ESSENDON (bye this week)

INJURIES

Alex Browne (knee) season

Will Hams (hip) 1 week

Elliott Kavanagh (hamstring) test

Nick Kommer (knee) 2 weeks

Jason Winderlich (knee) test

Paul Chapman (suspended) available

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Essendon was simply outclassed against the Swans and must use the break to find and/or manufacture avenues to goal. The Bombers were held to nine majors, taking their streak of sub 75-point scores to six. Paul Chapman's return adds depth and bite to the forward line, while Jake Carlisle showed a glimmer of form kicking two goals as the substitute. Tom Bellchambers will be better for the run.

FREMANTLE (bye this week)

INJURIES

Max Duffy (shoulder) 2 weeks

Scott Gumbleton (hamstring) 5 weeks

Luke McPharlin (quad) test

Sam Menegola (knee) test

Alex Pearce (shin) test

Tanner Smith (hamstring) 3 weeks

Michael Walters (ankle) 12-16 weeks

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: All of a sudden Fremantle looks like the team that came within poor goalkicking from securing its first AFL premiership. And, there's no reason the Dockers can't win nine-straight after the week off to rocket up the standings. Matthew Pavlich starred in his milestone game kicking 3.3 while David Mundy and Stephen Hill got plenty of it around the stoppages. Hayden Ballantyne fired an ominous warning to his rivals kicking three goals.

Giants Jeremy Cameron, Curtly Hampton and Shane Mumford should return this week. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

GEELONG

INJURIES

Zac Bates (hamstring) 3-4 weeks

Josh Caddy (foot) 5-6 weeks

Allen Christensen (back) 3-4 weeks

Shane Kersten (knee) 1-2 weeks

Lincoln McCarthy (back) test

Daniel Menzel (knee) indefinite

Billie Smedts (leg fracture) test

Nathan Vardy (knee) season

Steve Johnson (suspension) 1 week

ON THE BLOCK: Steve Johnson copped one week from the Match Review Panel for his headbutt on Fremantle tagger Ryan Crowley, while Jackson Sheringham and Jed Bews are the likely omissions despite making the most of their chances on the weekend.

ON THE CUSP: Matthew Stokes will return from suspension while Mitch Brown and Josh Walker continue to put their hands up with strong VFL form.

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: The Cats got jumped early by a fired-up Fremantle and never recovered. Simonds Stadium will host Friday night footy for the first time and the Cats play a side they are extremely familiar with. The Cats and Roos have participated in pre-seasons together over the past few years and know each other's game innately. North Melboune has won two out of the past three encounters and Geelong will have to buck the trend of teams performing poorly following the trip west. This should be a high quality affair and the absence of Stevie J could be decisive. The Cats will start deserved favourites, but the Roos will like their chances.

GOLD COAST

INJURY LIST

Andrew Boston (ankle) indefinite

Clay Cameron (shoulder) test

Daniel Gorringe (Achilles) 6 weeks

Josh Hall (shoulder) indefinite

Jesse Lonergan (hamstring) 2-3 weeks

Jack Martin (shoulder) indefinite

Tom Nicholls (knee) indefinite

Kade Kolodjashnij (knee) test

Sean Lemmens (leg) TBC

ON THE BLOCK: Hard to fault Gold Coast at the moment and it's hard to see anyone losing their place from the team after another dominant performance. Sean Lemmens is the only concern after he was subbed from the game in the third quarter with a leg injury. Watch this space.

ON THE CUSP: Gold Coast would love to reward Karmichael Hunt with senior selection should his form warrant it. Hunt overcame concussion to be among Gold Coast's best players in the NEAFL and should he see senior action in the next few weeks it will be interesting to see how Hunt complements their midfield mix.

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: The new kids on the block have arrived and they continue to notch wins in clinical fashion. The Suns were brutal in the opening term against St Kilda with eight goals and while their midfield continues to get the plaudits, a lot can be said for their multi-dimensial forward line. Zac Smith's return from injury was a raging success and those who recall his outstanding debut season know what a boost he is. The Suns strong season should continue when they host the Western Bulldogs in Round 10. Seven wins and two losses would be the ideal launching pad for the second half of the season.

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GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY

INJURIES

Jeremy Cameron (ear) available

Phil Davis (kidney) indefinite

Stephen Gilham (hamstring) test

Shane Mumford (knee) test

Adam Treloar (ankle) test

Toby Greene (suspended) 5 weeks

Nick Haynes (ankle) 3 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Hard-nosed midfielder Toby Greene faces an extended period of the sidelines following an alleged incident outside a Melbourne night spot last week. Greene will front court in September, however the Giants acted swiftly suspending the midfielder for five weeks. Giants defender Nick Haynes is out with a broken ankle sustained in the opening minutes of the Giants' heavy Round 8 loss to West Coast. Jed Lamb was among a number of Giants to struggle against the rampaging Eagles. He finished with six disposals, while Jon Patton, Matthew Buntine, Andrew Phillips and Sam Frost played bit-part roles.

GREENE ACCEPTS FIVE-MATCH BAN

ON THE CUSP: A couple of big name ins with Shane Mumford and Jeremy Cameron set to return to take on Richmond. Silky midfielder Adam Treloar should also return along with attacking defender Curtly Hampton. Tim Mohr could be fast-tracked back into the seniors to replace Haynes despite his limited match practice following foot and knee injuries.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Battered and bruised the Giants return to Spotless Stadium to take on a Richmond side searching for answers after Saturday's loss to Melbourne. Mumford is hugely important for the emerging Giants, providing the silky midfielders with first use of the ball. Jeremy Cameron's smarts inside the arc was sorely missed against the Ealges and his return alone makes the Giants a 3-4 goal better team. With Richmond on its knees, the Giants can a massive boilover.

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HAWTHORN

INJURIES

Jed Anderson (shoulder) indefinite

Josh Gibson (pectoral) 10-12 weeks

Luke Hodge (hamstring) available

Brian Lake (calf) 3-4 weeks

Sam Mitchell (hamstring) 7 weeks

Cyril Rioli (hamstring) 3 — 4 weeks

Jarryd Roughead (suspended) 1 week

Liam Shiels (shoulder) test

Matthew Spangher (ankle) 1 week

Brendan Whitecross (knee) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Josh Gibson will miss an extended period after undergoing surgery to repair a pectoral tear and Jarryd Roughead is unavailable through suspension. Ben Stratton's form is a concern, but he becomes crucial with Gibson out.

ON THE CUSP: Luke Hodge is available and Liam Shiels is some chance to return from a shoulder injury, while Matt Spangher could be brought straight back into the senior side if he has recovered from an ankle injury. Brad Sewell played in the VFL on the weekend and has also put his hand up.

HAWKS WOULD HANDLE GIBSON SAME WAY

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: We will get a strong indication of how deep Hawthorn's depth runs over the next few weeks and an away fixture against Port Adelaide presents a huge challenge. Not only do the Hawks have injuries, but it's to some of their most important players. For the first time in a while they enter a game where they aren't expected to win and have little to lose. It will be a great opportunity for Alastair Clarkson to watch some fringe players in the cut and thrust of a top of the table clash and those who can swim will put themselves in the frame to play big games at the pointy end of the season. Port Adelaide should win this one, but never overlook the ability of a champion side to get the job done against the odds.

MELBOURNE (bye this week)

INJURIES

James Frawley (hamstring) test

Jesse Hogan (back) 3 weeks

Dean Kent (calf) test

Jack Trengove (foot) season

Chris Dawes (suspension) 1 week

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: All of a sudden Melbourne is a competitive unit. And, boy do the players, members and supporters welcome the form reversal. But it's only going to get harder for the Dees with Port Adelaide next on the agenda followed by Collingwood, Essendon and North Melbourne. The Demons need solid production from lesser lights Cameron Pederson, Lynden Dunn, Dean Terlich and Matt Jones to stay within striking distance of their rivals. We know Dom Tyson is going to be jet if he isn't already, but really looking forward to seeing Christian Salem and Jay Kennedy-Harris show off their tricks in the second half of the season.

North Melbourne star Daniel Wells walks laps at training. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES

Ben Brown (knee) test

Tom Curran (foot) indefinite

Cam Delaney (foot) test

Jamie McMillan (broken leg) 1-2 weeks

Robbie Tarrant (lower leg) indefinite

Daniel Wells (foot) 3-4 weeks

Aaron Mullett (hamstring) test

Nathan Grima (foot) 1 week

ON THE BLOCK: Ryan Bastinac would need to put in a power of work to hold his spot after starting as the substitute against Brisbane. Bastinac has played eight games, averaging 16 disposals — his worst in five years. Scott McMahon answered the late call up putting on a solid display in the back half.

BRUISED WELLS TO MISS 3-4 WEEKS

ON THE CUSP: Aaron Mullett was a late withdrawal with a minor hamstring complaint. Brad Scott ruled out Nathan Grima (foot) on Tuesday as he continues to battle his complaint. Emerging forward Mason Wood is banging down the door for senior selection with another bag of four in Werribee's comfortable win over Sandringham. It's Wood's third bag of four to take his season tally to 16 from six games. Liam Anthony starred in North Ballarat's narrow win over Frankston and could push the likes of Bastinac for selection.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Last time Geelong lost two in a row was in 2012 so North better not spend too much time basking in the glory of its 87-point win over Brisbane. Usual suspects Brent Harvey (39 disposals, two goals), Sam Gibson (35 possessions) and Nick Dal Santo (34 touches) led the way while Lindsay Thomas proved deadly close to goal. They need to fire if the Kangaroos are going to inflict another defeat on Geelong - stung by its loss to Fremantle at Patersons Stadium. Drew Petrie looks on the brink of a breakout performance, kicking 1.4 while we're yet to see the best of Jack Ziebell and Scott Thompson in 2014. Skipper Andrew Swallow, playing his first senior game back from Achilles surgery, needed the run and can improve.

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PORT ADELAIDE

INJURIES

Matthew Lobbe (calf) test

Mason Shaw (wrist) 2-3 weeks

Sam Russell (hamstring) 2-3 weeks

Jarrad Redden (knee) season

Lewis Stevenson (toe) 4-5 weeks

Cameron Hitchcock (shin) 6-8 weeks

Sam Colquhoun (knee) season

Tom Jonas (groin) TBC

ON THE BLOCK: Brent Renouf is likely to make way for inform ruckman Matthew Lobbe if he can overcome the minor calf injury that forced his late omission from the side that defeated Fremantle in Round 8.

ON THE CUSP: John Butcher and Jake Neade were two of the stronger performers in a strong SANFL win for Port Adelaide, while Sam Grey, Tom Logan and Andrew Moore remain on the fringes.

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: Port Adelaide has an opportunity to land a psychological blow on a wounded Hawthorn team on Friday night. Justin Westhoff spoke of the teams want and ability to remain undefeated at the Adelaide Oval this year and if they can demolish the Hawks in the fashion they have other teams this year, it will generate supreme confidence ahead of future encounters. Ken Hinkley will be working hard to ensure the Power players don't get ahead of themselves and they will appreciate the hard work that must be done to beat the Hawks, no matter what injuries they are carrying. Port Adelaide is the form team of the competition and they should get the four points in this game.

Richmond defender David Astbury faces an extended period on the sidelines. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

RICHMOND

INJURIES

Jake King (toe) 6-8 weeks

Chris Knights (knee soreness) TBC

Chris Newman (calf) 3-4 weeks

David Astbury (knee) indefinite

Nick Vlastuin (finger) 3-5 weeks

Liam McBean (finger) 3-5 weeks

Trent Cotchin (ankle) test

ON THE BLOCK: This could be a long list. Skipper Trent Cotchin (ankle) is confident he'll be right to play despite coach Damien Hardwick taking a more conservative approach. So many players were disappointing against Melbourne and for many it's a serious trend. Troy Chaplin and Bachar Houli are leaders at the club but they aren't showing it on the field, Ty Vickery is Ty Vickery, Shaun Grigg can find the pill but butchers it, Ben Griffiths shows signs but can't put four quarters together, Brandon Ellis has stalled in his development and Steve Morris might not be able to cut it at this level. There will be two forced changes against the Giants with Nick Vlastuin to miss a month with a broken finger and luckless defender David Astbury — one of the few Tiger improvers this year — out with another knee injury.

DELEDIO: 'ABSOLUTELY' WE CAN PLAY FINALS

ON THE CUSP: Damien Hardwick says he will reward VFL form so you can put the house on Anthony Miles being promoted from the rookie list to take on his old side. He had another 32 touches against Box Hill on Saturday as did Matt Thomas — and at least you can rely on those two to put their heads over the ball. Dylan Grimes will replace Astbury while Ricky Petterd and Brad Helbig were in the best again and Ivan Maric got through a half OK, but Hardwick says he needs a couple more weeks to be ready for AFL action.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Oh boy. Forget finals calculations, the Tigers need to figure out how to play a winning brand of football. The slick transition that made Richmond great to watch in 2013 has disappeared, but then it's hard to get the game on your terms if you can't win the footy in the first place. Maybe some players thought the improvement curve of the past four years would continue and forgot that requires hard work. Some hard questions will be asked at Punt Rd this week and if there isn't a response against GWS there could be a nationwide power failure as microwaves go into a membership-frying meltdown.

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ST KILDA (bye this week)

INJURIES

David Armitage (leg) test weeks

Sam Gilbert (foot) 8 weeks

Nathan Wright (broken leg) 8 weeks

Eli Templeton (broken arm) 10-12 weeks

Jarryn Geary (elbow) 10-12 weeks

Tom Hickey (foot) 5 weeks

Sam Fisher (hamstring) 4-5 weeks

Trent Dennis-Lane (ankle) 2-3 weeks

James Gwilt (hamstring) TBC

Luke Delaney (hip) test

Blake Acres (ankle) test

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Saints get a week off, and they need it. A promising start to the season has turned sour with four consecutive losses as the injury toll mounts. Fans want to see effort and they got that in the second half against the Suns but, as with the week before against Carlton, it all came after the game was out of reach. An extra week won't help the long-teemers but Delaney and Acres should be right for a Round 11 date with Collingwood. In the VFL, Seb Ross (35 disposals, two goals) was the standout as Sandringham lost to Werribee. With matches against Port Adelaide (in Adelaide) and Geelong (at the Cattery) to follow, Saints fans should strap themselves in for a tough month.

Sydney superstar Lance Franklin celebrates one of his five goals against Essendon. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: News Corp Australia

SYDNEY (bye this week)

INJURIES

Alex Johnson (knee) season

Sam Naismith (knee) 1 week

Patrick Mitchell (knee) test

Lloyd Perris (shin) test

TED RICHARDS IS THE SPECIAL GUEST ON THE COUCH ON MONDAY NIGHT

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Like Fremantle, the Sydney juggernaut is starting to purr under the steam of a rejuvenated Lance Franklin and finally fit Kurt Tippett. The twin talls are the envy of the competition, while Sydney's Kennedy-Jack-Hannebery midfield is as good as any going around.

WEST COAST

INJURIES

Beau Waters (shoulder) season

Blayne Wilson (thumb) 4-5 weeks

Mark LeCras (suspended) 1 week

ON THE BLOCK: Hard to knock anyone involved in a 111-point demolition. Mark LeCras is out after being found guilty of rough conduct, while Andrew Gaff was subbed off. Xavier Ellis was solid in his return from injury collecting seven disposals at 71 per cent.

ON THE CUSP: Experienced Eagles Patrick McGinnity and Sam Butler remain on the outer and could yet push for selection to take on Collingwood at the MCG. Will Schofield and Dom Sheed are thereabouts.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: It's been a tale of two halves for the Eagles this season, demoralising the minnows while finding contenders too much to handle. Rookie coach Adam Simpson would be pleased with Josh Kennedy's return to form while Shannon Hurn is back to his devastating best out of defence. Matt LeCras' experience and goalkicking ability will be sorely missed against the Magpies.

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WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES

Tom Williams (calf) test

Tory Dickson (pectoral) 8-10 weeks

Jarrad Grant (foot) available

Josh Prudden (knee) 3 weeks

Jordan Roughead (dislocated AC joint) test

Daniel Pearce (knee) 5 weeks

Liam Jones (suspended) 2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Tory Dickson tore his pectoral muscle in the win over Melbourne and will miss at least two months of football. Tom Williams remains a chance to play despite injuring his calf, with scans revealing only a minor tear and Williams will play if he can get through training this week. Liam Jones will definitely be missing after taking a two-match suspension.

DOGS COULD RECEIVE DEFENSIVE BOOST

ON THE CUSP: Jordan Roughead has also made a speedier than expected recovery and he will resume full training this week with a hope of playing on the weekend. Jarrad Grant got through his first VFL hit out unscathed on the weekend before last and will also press for selection. Lin Jong, Brett Goodes, Clay Smith, Koby Stevens and Marcus Bontempelli continue to wait for their chance.

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: The Bulldogs would have enjoyed their week off after such a fighting win, but will have their hands full against one of the form sides of the completion when they travel to the Gold Coast. It's hard to see the Dogs getting the points here, but you can expect a competitive effort and if they can pinch a fourth win for the season then suddenly they are in the bunch fighting for eighth spot. The Liam Picken v Gary Ablett contest should be a ripper, but Gold Coast should get the job done easily.

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Papalii survives, Guerra in for Thaiday

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BRONCOS forward Sam Thaiday is out of State of Origin I with Sydney Roosters premiership star Aidan Guerra set to make his debut in game one next week.

While in-form Brisbane backrower Matt Gillett will be named in the starting team for the first time and out of form Canberra Raiders enforcer Josh Papalii will survive the axe.

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LIVE STREAM OF THE QLD ORIGIN ANNOUNCEMENT HERE FROM 6.30PM

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Thaiday had been hopeful of overcoming a calf strain to play in the series opener next week and coach Mal Meninga was willing to give the Test second rower extra time to prove his fitness but the troublesome injury won't heal in time.

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MAROONS BIG FOUR FIRING

PICK YOUR GREATEST ORIGIN TEAMS

TRY OF THE CENTURY

Instead of joining Maroons teammates on day one of camp in Brisbane on Monday, Thaiday was instead at Red Hill continuing his slow recovery.

His absence will mean Guerra will get to make his debut for the Maroons.

The Maroons team will be officially announced at a gala dinner at approximately 6.45pm on Monday.

Follow the announcement in our live blog below:

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Live NRL: Sea Eagles v Knights

Manly v Newcastle. Source: News Corp Australia

THE high-flying Sea Eagles host the last placed Knights who are battling with on and off field issues. Can they knock off Manly?

With Manly sitting pretty in second place, Newcastle are in desperate need of a win to keep their season alive.

You can follow all the action by clicking on the score centre above to access the match centre or join th econversation in our live blog below:

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