Live: Hawks smash Eagles, Port host Saints

Hamish Hartlett eludes Lenny Hayes. Picture: Simon Cross Source: News Limited

ST KILDA star Nick Riewoldt kicked the last two goals of the first quarter to put the Saints within striking distance of Port Adelaide.

The Power burst out of the blocks with the first four goals at Adelaide Oval but the Saints steadied through Lenny Hayes in the midfield and Riewoldt up forward.

The skipper's two goals takes his career tally to 599.

Hamish Hartlett has been the pick of the Port players with 10 first-quarter disposals.

Earlier, a seven-goal third quarter has seen Hawthorn demolish West Coast at Aurora Stadium in Launceston.

Jarryd Roughead was the star with eight goals as the Hawks shrugged off any injury concerns, to win 19.9 (123) to 12.7 (79).

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Hawthorn debutant Luke Lowden kicked three goals in an impressive display while Andrew Gaff and Luke Shuey were amongst the best for the Eagles.

In Adelaide, Port Adelaide host St Kilda in today's twilight match.

The Power are flying, two games clear on top of the ladder, and welcome back former assistant coach Alan Richardson.

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First-year Saints coach Richardson will be looking to cause a major upset as arrest the Saints worrying form slump.

In tonight's double-header, the Western Bulldogs welcome Brisbane to Etihad Stadium while the Giants face Essendon at Spotless Stadium.

SATURDAY FOOTBALL

HAWTHORN defeat West Coast at Aurora Stadium

Late Changes: Nil

Subs: Billy Hartung (Hawks), Sharrod Wellingham (Eagles)

Port Adelaide v St Kilda at Adelaide Oval, 4.10pm (CST)

Late Changes: Nil

Subs: Ben Newton (Power), Jack Billings (Saints)

Western Bulldogs v Brisbane Lions at Etihad Stadium, 7.40pm (EST)

GWS Giants v Essendon at Spotless Stadium, 7.40pm (EST)

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Ange won’t implement ‘Roos sex ban

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SOCCEROOS coach Ange Postecoglou's attention to detail is usually absolute, but even he is happy to leave one particular form of shooting practice entirely to the discretion of his players.

Where some coaches institute a tournament ban on conjugal relations between the players and their partners, for fear of pre-match exhaustion, Postecoglou would simply prefer not to think about it.

Having already been in camp for several weeks, the news will no doubt be welcomed by the players and their partners, most of whom arrive in Vitoria this week along with their families.

Unfortunately the single players may suffer for their bachelor lifestyles, with no State of Origin-style team-bonding session planned before Saturday's World cup opener against Chile.

Mark Milligan with wife Rhia and daughters Audrey and Maya. Source: News Corp Australia

However the eligible Socceroos could yet call upon their Winter Olympic counterparts for advice, after the dating app Tinder was all the rage in Sochi during the recent Games.

Thankfully for what is a very youth Socceroos squad, Tinder is widely used in Brazil.

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The Socceroos have exclusive use of the Ilha do Bois hotel, which has sweeping views of Vitoria's coastline, but Postecoglou said the doors won't be shut to the players' partners.

"I don't really delve too deeply into it, but I've never had too many issues on that front where people are saying they need to go out,'' Postecoglou said.

Australian Socceroos football player Tommy Oar looks out from the team's bus. Source: AFP

"We've got the hotel exclusively but family and friends will be close by, so we'll make sure there's contact between family and friends.

"But those kind of things become pretty secondary for the players themselves,

"With everything we need to do in camp I don't think those things are of primary importance.''

With the Socceroos $301 outsiders to win the World Cup and $6.50 to top Group B according to the TAB, they will need every bit of luck heading into clashes with Chile, Netherlands and Spain.

Asked whether sex the night before the game may actually enhance performance, Postecoglou said the sports science department's performance measures weren't quite that advanced.

"I never ask those questions and you try and you always refer to your own personal experience and from my perspective, for the players and everyone involved I think there's more important things in these three or four weeks,'' he said.

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Hampson axed, Miles to debut

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RICHMOND has named seven possible inclusions as it tries to save its season against North Melbourne.

The ins include Ty Vickery, Nick Vlastuin, Jake Batchelor, Ricky Petterd and promoted rookie Anthony Miles, who will make his Richmond debut if he makes the final 22-man squad on Friday.

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There are four confirmed outs with Daniel Jackson (hip), Reece Conca (groin), Shaun Grigg (hamstring) and Dylan Grimes (toe) succumbing to injury.

In other key changes for Round 12 matches:

REPLAY THE TEAMS AND SUPERCOACH CHAT BELOW.

CARLTON has resisted the temptation to rush back Chris Judd for its clash against Geelong. The two-time Brownlow Medallist will play for the Northern Blues in the VFL in his comeback from a hamstring injury .

The Blues regain Andrew Walker and Dennis Armfield, with David Ellard (calf) and Dylan Buckley out.

Andrew Walker returns to the Carlton line-up on Friday night. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

GEELONG has named defenders Corey Enright and Tom Lonergan.

HAWTHORN has recalled Cyril Rioli and Jordan Lewis among four changes to face West Coast, with David Hale (quad) out and Will Langford, Jonathan Simpkin and Mitch Hallahan dropped.

ST KILDA has also swung the axe, with Rhys Stanley, Arryn Siposs and Tom Curren all dropped. Adam Schneider will miss the clash against Port Adelaide with a foot injury. Forward Tom Lee will play his first game for the year.

PORT ADELAIDE has strengthened its line-up with the return of Hamish Hartlett, Dom Cassisi and Tom Jonas.

WESTERN BULLDOGS forward Jarrad Grant returns from a broken foot at the expense of Fletcher Roberts.

GOLD COAST has named Karmichael Hunt in its squad to face Sydney, which has regained Mike Pyke and Gary Rohan.

COLLINGWOOD stars Dane Swan, Luke Ball and Brodie Grundy are in the side to face Melbourne on Queen's Birthday while the Pies also named Sam Dwyer and Tim Broomhead.

Karmichael Hunt is recalled to bolster the Suns midfield. Picture: JERAD WILLIAMS Source: News Corp Australia

ROUND 12 TEAMS

GEELONG v CARLTON

Friday, June 7 at Etihad Stadium, 7.50pm (EST)

CATS

B: J.Rivers, T.Lonergan, A.Mackie

HB: C.Enright, H.Taylor, M.Blicavs

C: G.Horlin-Smith, J.Selwood, M.Duncan

HF: S.Johnson, H.McIntosh, J.Stringer

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

Foll: D.Simpson, J.Kelly, C.Guthrie

I/C: S.Motlop, B.Smedts, M.Stokes, J.Bews

Emerg: J.Walker, B.Hartman, J.Sheringham

INS: C.Enright, T.Lonergan

OUTS: T.Varcoe (personal), J.Sheringham

BLUES

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

HB: C.Yarran, S.Rowe, Z.Tuohy

C: K.Simpson, M.Murphy, S.Docherty

HF: J.Garlett, J.Waite, T.Menzel

F: L.Casboult, L.Henderson, M.Robinson

Foll: R.Warnock, B.Gibbs, D.Thomas

I/C: A.Carrazzo, A.Walker, B.McLean, D.Armfield

Emerg: D.Buckley, N.Graham, J.Cachia

INS: A.Walker, D.Armfield

OUTS: D.Ellard (calf), D.Buckley

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HAWTHORN v WEST COAST EAGLES

Saturday, June 8 at Aurora Stadium, 1.40pm (EST)

HAWKS

B: S.Burgoyne, R.Schoenmakers, T.Duryea

HB: L.Hodge, A.Litherland, G.Birchall

C: I.Smith, B.Sewell, B.Hill

HF: P.Puopolo, J.Gunston, C.Rioli

F: L.Breust, J.Roughead, M.Spangher

Foll: J.Ceglar, J.Lewis, L.Shiels

I/C: M.Suckling, B.Hartung, L.Lowden, K.Cheney

Emerg: W.Langford, M.Hallahan, T.O'Brien

INS: J.Lewis, M.Spangher, C.Rioli, L.Lowden

OUTS: D.Hale (quad), J.Simpkin, W.Langford, M.Hallahan

EAGLES

B: D.Glass, M.Brown, S.Hurn

HB: X.Ellis, E.Mackenzie, W.Schofield

C: C.Masten, M.Priddis, A.Gaff

HF: M.Hutchings, J.Darling, E.Yeo

F: J.Bennell, D.Cox, M.LeCras

Foll: N.Naitanui, S.Selwood, L.Shuey

I/C: S.Wellingham, M.Rosa, J.Cripps, J.McGovern

Emerg: J.Hill, S.Butler, P.McGinnity

INS: D.Glass, M.Hutchings, J.McGovern

OUTS: JJ.Kennedy (cheek), J.Hill, B.Sheppard (buttock)

Cyril Rioli is a key in for Hawthorn against West Coast. Picture: DAMIAN SHAW Source: News Corp Australia

PORT ADELAIDE v ST KILDA

Saturday, June 8 at Adelaide Oval, 4.10pm (CST)

POWER

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

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

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

HF: H.Hartlett, J.Westhoff, M.White

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

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

I/C: A.Young, T.Jonas, D.Cassisi, K.Mitchell

Emerg: B.Newton, J.Neade, S.Gray

INS: D.Cassisi, H.Hartlett, T.Jonas

OUTS: P.Stewart, A.Moore, J.Neade

SAINTS

B: J.Newnes, L.Delaney, C.Shenton

HB: S.Dempster, J.Bruce, S.Dunell

C: F.Ray, L.Hayes, L.Montagna

HF: J.Steven, N.Riewoldt, J.Billings

F: T.Milera, T.Lee, B.Murdoch

Foll: B.Longer, S.Ross, L.Dunstan

I/C: C.Jones, M.Weller, T.Simpkin, J.Saunders

Emerg: R.Stanley, A.Siposs, T.Curren

INS; T.Simpkin, T.Lee, J.Saunders, S.Dunell

OUTS: A.Schneider (foot), R.Stanley, T.Curren, A.Siposs

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WESTERN BULLDOGS v BRISBANE LIONS

Saturday, June 8 at Etihad Stadium, 7.40pm (EST)

BULLDOGS

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

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

C: M.Bontempelli, R.Griffen, C.Howard

HF: K.Stevens, T.Williams, N.Hrovat

F: L.Dahlhaus, S.Crameri, D.Giansiracusa

Foll: W.Minson, A.Cooney, T.Liberatore

I/C: J.Macrae, J.Grant, M.Wallis, J.Tutt

Emerg: L.Jones, J.Johannisen, M.Honeychurch

INS: J.Grant

OUTS: F.Roberts

LIONS

B: D.Gardiner, M.Maguire, J.Clarke

HB: J.Adcock, J.Patfull, R.Harwood

C: C.Beams, T.Rockliff, J.Aish

HF: L.Taylor, J.Brown, D.Zorko

F: J.Green, D.Merrett, R.Bewick

Foll: S.Martin, J.Redden, P.Hanley

I/C: M.Golby, S.Mayes, Z.O'Brien, M.Paparone

Emerg: B.Moloney, A.Raines, J.Polkinghorne

INS: S.Martin, R.Bewick

OUTS: T.West, J.Paine

Stefan Martin will carry the Lions ruck duties. Picture: Jono Searle. Source: News Corp Australia

GWS GIANTS v ESSENDON

Saturday, June 8 at Spotless Stadium, 7.40pm (EST)

GIANTS

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

HB: S.Frost, T.Mohr, C.Hampton

C: R.Palmer, J.Townsend, W.Hoskin-Elliott

HF: J.Lamb, J.Patton, T.Scully

F: L.Whitfield, A.Tomlinson, D.Smith

Foll: S.Mumford, C.Ward, D.Shiel

I/C: K.Jaksch, A.Treloar, S.Coniglio, R.Lobb

Emerg: N.Wilson, J.Kelly, D.Addison

INS: S.Coniglio, R.Lobb

OUTS: D.Addison, J.Cameron

BOMBERS

B: D.Fletcher, J.Carlisle, M.Baguley

HB: D.Heppell, C.Hooker, M.Hibberd

C: C.Dempsey, J.Watson, B.Stanton

HF: P.Chapman, J.Daniher, P.Ambrose

F: Z.Merrett, T.Bellchambers, J.Winderlich

Foll: P.Ryder, H.Hocking, D.Zaharakis

I/C: B.Howlett, B.Goddard, D.Myers, J.Melksham

Emerg: Kavanagh, T.Colyer, C.Dell'Olio

NO C

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HANGE

FREMANTLE v ADELAIDE CROWS

Sunday, June 9 at Patersons Stadium, 2.10 (WST)

DOCKERS

B: L.Spurr, L.McPharlin, Z.Dawson

HB: T.Mzungu, M.Johnson, D.Pearce

C: C.Sutcliffe, R.Crowley, P.Duffield

HF: M.Barlow, C.Mayne, N.Fyfe

F: H.Ballantyne, M.Pavlich, Z.Clarke

Foll: A.Sandilands, D.Mundy, S.Hill

I/C: L.Neale, N.Suban, T.Sheridan, G.Ibbotson

Emerg: A.Silvagni, B.Grey, M.Taberner

NO CHANGE

CROWS

B: R.Laird, B.Rutten, L.Brown

HB: B.Smith, D.Talia, A.Otten

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.Jaensch, J.Lyons, B.Martin, M.Wright

Emerg: S.McKernan, C.Ellis-Yolmen, L.Thompson

NO CHANGE

Gary Rohan is a surprise inclusion for the Swans' clash against Gold Coast. Picture: Brett Costello Source: News Corp Australia

GOLD COAST SUNS v SYDNEY SWANS

Sunday, June 9 at Metricon Stadium, 3.20pm (EST)

SUNS

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

HB: C.Cameron, R.Thompson, T.McKenzie

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

HF: D.Stanley, TJ.Lynch, L.Russell

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

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

I/C: K.Hunt, H.Bennell, D.Swallow, M.Shaw

Emerg: A.Sexton, A.Hall, S.Lemmens

INS: R.Thompson, H.Bennell, K.Hunt

OUTS: S.Lemmens, A.Sexton, A.Hall

SWANS

B: D.Rampe, T.Richards, N.Smith

HB: R.Shaw, H.Grundy, J.Laidler

C: N.Malceski, JP.Kennedy, J.McVeigh

HF: B.McGlynn, L.Franklin, K.Jack

F: A.Goodes, K.Tippett, S.Reid

Foll: T.Derickx, D.Hannebery, L.Parker

I/C: C.Bird, H.Cunningham, L.Jetta, J.Lloyd

Emerg: B.Jack, M.Pyke, G.Rohan

NO CHANGE

NORTH MELBOURNE v RICHMOND

Sunday, June 9 at Etihad Stadium, 7.10pm (EST)

KANGAROOS

B: L.McDonald, S.Thompson, L.Hansen

HB: N.Dal Santo, M.Firrito, A.Mullett

C: S.Gibson, A.Swallow, L.Greenwood

HF: R.Bastinac, A.Black, L.Adams

F: L.Thomas, D.Petrie, B.Harvey

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

I/C: L.Anthony, S.Atley, R.Nahas, M.Daw

Emerg: B.McKenzie, B.Jacobs, S.Wright

NO CHANGE

TIGERS

B: T.Chaplin, J.Batchelor, S.Morris

HB: B.Houli, A.Rance, M.Dea

C: B.Lennon, S.Edwards, R.Petterd

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

F: M.Thomas, J.Riewoldt, I.Maric

Foll: T.Vickery, B.Ellis, T.Cotchin

I/C: A.McDonough, N.Foley, A.Miles, N.Vlastuin

Emerg: S Hampson, B.Helbig, B.O'Hanlon.

INS: R.Petterd, T.Vickery, A.Miles, J.Batchelor, N.Vlastuin

OUTS: D.Jackson (hip), S.Grigg (hamstring), D.Grimes (toe), R.Conca (groin), S.Hampson

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MELBOURNE v COLLINGWOOD

Monday, June 10 at MCG, 3.20pm (EST)

DEMONS

B: C.Garland, L.Dunn, N.Jetta

HB: J.Grimes, T.McDonald, J.Howe

C: D.Cross, D.Tyson, B.Vince

HF: R.Bail, J.Frawley, M.Jones

F: C.Pedersen, C.Dawes, J.Watts

Foll: M.Jamar, N.Jones, J.Viney

I/C: (from) D.Terlich, A.Riley, J.Kennedy-Harris, M.Gawn, J.Toumpas, J.McKenzie, C.Salem

INS: C.Dawes, J.McKenzie, A.Riley

OUTS: -

MAGPIES

B: T.Langdon, J.Frost, A.Toovey

HB: M.Williams, L.Keeffe, T.Goldsack

C: D.Swan, B.Macaffer, H.Lumumba

HF: A.Fasolo, J.White, J.Blair

F: L.Ball, T.Cloke, J.Elliott

Foll: J.Witts, D.Beams, S.Pendlebury

I/C: (from) T.Adams, B.Grundy, S.Dwyer, C.Young, T.Broomhead, P.Seedsman, J.Thomas

INS: L.Ball, D.Swan, S.Dwyer, T.Broomhead, B.Grundy

OUTS: N.Maxwell, S.Sidebottom

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Sullivan out of Games

Eamon Sullivan has been ruled out of the Commonwealth Games. Picture: Adam Head Source: Adam Head / News Corp Australia

FORMER world record holder Eamon Sullivan has today pulled out of the Australian Commonwealth Games team due to an ongoing shoulder injury and will be replaced by Sydney's Matthew Abood on the plane to Glasgow.

Sullivan won the 50m freestyle national title in April with a shock victory after just six weeks training, but then had shoulder surgery after the competition to repair damage in his joint.

The 28-year-old has had insufficient time to recover and train for Glasgow and opted to step aside from the Commonwealth Games to instead focus towards the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

Abood is Sullivan's former training partner who missed Australian team selection after he was beaten in a swim-off at the trials.

Sullivan said he was disappointed to have to give up his chances of taking home a medal in the 50m freestyle event.

"This wasn't an easy decision, but it has been made with the longevity of my career in mind, and with Rio as my ultimate goal," the three-time Olympian said.

"While my shoulder operation went well, and I have done everything in my control to get myself training at the level I know is required to compete at the Commonwealth Games, it is simply not race ready and I do not feel that I will be in a position to compete at my best in Glasgow.

"In my brief time back on the team, it has been fantastic to see the great sense of team work and reinvigorated camaraderie.

"Australian swimming is heading in the right direction, and I am looking forward to seeing the team do their best in Glasgow."

Swimming Australia performance director Michael Scott praised Sullivan for making "a very mature decision with his long-term health and fitness in mind".

Australian Commonwealth Games Association CEO Perry Crosswhite said it was disappointing Sullivan would not be joining the team in Scotland.

"It's disappointing that Eamon won't be able to join us in Glasgow, and we wish him all the best with his future and recovery," said Crosswhite.

"We would like to welcome Matt Abood onto his first Commonwealth Games team and we look forward to seeing him, and the entire team swim in less than 50 days from now."

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NRL Late Mail: Gal 50-50 for Sharks

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NSW captain Paul Gallen says he is "50-50" to take the field for the Sharks on Saturday night despite a neck injury.

Gallen had a cortisone injection last Friday and is racing the clock to be fit for the local derby against the Dragons at WIN Stadium.

"If I'm right to play, I'll play," Gallen said.

"I had the injection last Friday and the specialist told me seven days (with) zero contact, which will be this Friday night, and we play on Saturday.

"So it will be touch and go. But if I'm right, I'll play."

Check out our full Late Mail below.

Paul Gallen says he's a 50-50 chance. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

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Friday, Jun 6, Sea Eagles v Bulldogs, Brookvale Oval, NINE, 7:40pm

Anthony Watmough (bicep) and Kieran Foran (ankle, knee) have been cleared to play, despite Foran missing most of Wednesday's session. Daly Cherry-Evans (knee) trained for the first time with the squad on Thursday. He will have a final assessment on Friday morning.

The Bulldogs will be unchanged, with Tony Williams, Josh Reynolds and Trent Hodkinson returning from NSW duty. Hodkinson (broken nose) will play despite picking up an injury in Origin I.

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Friday, Jun 6, Eels v Cowboys, Pirtek Stadium, NINE, 7:40pm

The Eels expect no changes, with Jarryd Hayne (fatigue) and Willie Tonga (ribs) cleared to return. Darcy Lussick (knee cap) is no chance of an early comeback. Luke Kelly will play hooker in place of Nathan Peats (ACL, season).

The Cowboys have no injury issues and travelled with the 18 named, with Joel Riethmuller or John Asiata to drop out.

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Saturday, Jun 7, Titans v Panthers, Robina Stadium, FOX, 5:30pm

Gold Coast's full squad is fit, with Nate Myles (hand), Albert Kelly, Brad Takairangi (both leg) and Kevin Gordon (knee) to return from injury, while Greg Bird returns from suspension. Myles and Paul Carter (illness) missed some sessions earlier in the week, but will play. Coach John Cartwright will wait until the last minute to make a decision on whether to hand a debut to exciting recruit James Roberts, who was named 18th man on Tuesday.

James Segeyaro, Sam McKendry (both ankle) and Dean Whare (cork) are battling injuries for the Panthers. Kevin Kingston (foot) has completed full training this week, despite not being named, and could be a late inclusion. The Panthers have their final training run on Friday morning before heading up to the Gold Coast.

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Saturday, Jun 7, Dragons v Sharks, WIN Stadium, FOX, 7:30pm

Mitch Rein (suspension) is out for the Dragons. No official decision has been made on a replacement, with last week's debutant Shane Pumipi and young gun Craig Garvey candidates to come into the 17, although utility Kyle Stanley (hamstring) is out injured. Josh Dugan is expected to stay at centre, having trained there all week.

The Sharks say they expect none of their 11 injured players to take the field, despite Paul Gallen (neck) and Andrew Fifita (ankle) pushing for early returns. Gallen had a cortisone injection last Friday and says he is a "50-50" chance to play, but would require medical clearance. Of the 18 players selected, David Fifita (ankle) is the only doubt, although he is expected to play.

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Saturday, Jun 7, Rabbitohs v Warriors, NIB Stadium, Perth, FOX, 9:30pm (EST), 7:30pm (local)

The Rabbitohs travelled on Thursday and have their final session on Friday. They expect no changes, with the club confident Alex Johnston (quad) will be fit to return after being a late withdrawal last week.

The Warriors made the long trip to Perth on Wednesday as they attempt to adjust to the four hour time difference. They travelled with the 19 named and expect no changes, with Tuimoala Lolohea and Charlie Gubb to drop off.

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Sunday, Jun 8, Knights v Tigers, Hunter Stadium, FOX, 2:00pm

Beau Scott (neck), Jarrod Mullen (shoulder) and Akuila Uate (knee) are all expected to take the field, with the Knights to be unchanged.

Star fullback James Tedesco (ankle) has been cleared to return for the Tigers, who also welcome back Aaron Woods, Robbie Farah (Origin), Liam Fulton (back) and Curtis Sironen (foot). They are expected to be 1-17.

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Sunday, Jun 8, Storm v Roosters, AAMI Park, NINE, 3:00pm

Expect a change or two for the Storm, who had a closed session on Thursday. Ben Hampton is a strong chance to come into the side at five-eighth despite being named in NSW Cup, with Tohu Harris to revert to the forwards.

The Roosters will decide on a final 17 on Saturday, but are not predicting changes.

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Monday, Jun 9, Raiders v Broncos, GIO Stadium, FOX, 7:00pm

The Raiders have no injury concerns and will be unchanged provided they get through their final two final sessions on Saturday and Sunday.

The Broncos are yet to finalise a 17 given the Monday kick-off, but Justin Hodges (ankle) is likely to return from injury, with Lachlan Maranta to drop off the extended bench. Sam Thaiday (calf) pulled up well following his return last week and is a certain starter.

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US media goes nuts for Patty Mills

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THE NBA Finals are less than 24 hours away and the US media is abuzz with stories about Patty Mills.

The Australian guard's transformation from tubby towel-waver to a genuine asset for the San Antonio Spurs this season has caught the attention of America's basketball scribes.

NBA FINALS: A MUG'S GUIDE

WHO IS AUSSIE NBA PLAYER ARON BAYNES

Tim Duncan #21, Patty Mills #8 and Danny Green #4 of the San Antonio Spurs celebrate a play. Source: AFP

Lee Jenkins, writing for Sports Illustrated, suggested Spurs general manager RC Buford saved Mills "from unemployment when he needed to visit a fat farm".

Jenkins noted that an off-season bet with San Antonio teammate Boris Diaw over whether he could get his body fat index below 7% was crucial in his improved performances this year.

"Mills arrived in San Antonio two years ago, known mainly for waving towels on the bench and forming imaginary eye goggles with his fingers, a gesture mimicked by three-point shooters nationwide," Jenkins wrote.

"Mills was drafted 55th in 2009 by the Trail Blazers, ended up in China two years later and, upon returning to the NBA, found that Portland couldn't use him anymore. The Spurs are famously understated, but they signed Mills in March 2012 partly because they appreciated his exuberance.

"'That's from my upbringing,' says Mills, an Aboriginal Australian. 'My mum and dad taught me that you don't sulk when you don't get court time.'

"Their advice resonated last season, when Mills dropped to fourth-string point guard and Popovich termed him Fatty Patty. Mills improved his diet in the summer, winning a bet with Diaw to get below 7% body fat, and earned the backup job, crucial because of Parker's recent hamstring woes.

"'I've learned things here I don't think I would have learned other places,' Mills says, 'and I've played more than I think I would have played other places.'"

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John Schuhmann, writing for NBA.com, said Mills was causing concern for LeBron James and Miami Heat ahead of the NBA Finals series.

"With the Spurs' second unit, Mills shares ball-handling responsibilities with Manu Ginobili, but he's still a big factor that the Miami Heat have to worry about," Schuhmann wrote.

"Along with that quickness comes a much-improved jumper. He's a ball-handler that can pull up at any time and make you pay for going under a screen. And if he catches fire, he can change a game.

"Mills is one of the reasons the Spurs are a better team than they were a year ago. He went from towel-waiver to impact player.

'We wouldn't be here without him,/ Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. 'He was great off the bench for us this year and always gave us a good jolt of energy in several different ways.'"

Zach Lowe, writing for ESPN's Grantland, noted that Mills could prove a potent weapon for the Spurs during the NBA play-offs if Tony Parker's troublesome ankle injury continues to prove an issue.

"Patty Mills played 13 garbage-time minutes in last year's Finals, but he's a weapon now," Lowe wrote. "He gives San Antonio both a fail-safe in case Tony Parker's ankle flares up and a tag-team partner for Parker in dual — point guard line-ups — units San Antonio would happily use if Miami plays Norris Cole and Mario Chalmers together. The Mills — Marco Belinelli bench duo is a collective upgrade over Gary Neal, even though Neal took and hit some of the ballsiest shots of last year's Finals."

Patty Mills #8 didn't do much other than towel-waving in the last Finals series against the Miami Heat. Source: AFP

James Herbert, writing for CBS, was similarly effusive in his praise for Mills — particularly the Australian's metronomic accuracy from three-point range.

"Patty Mills might be even more dangerous," Herbert wrote. "His only Finals minutes came in garbage time last year, but now he is a key part of the Spurs' attack. Once only an excellent towel-waver, he has developed into one of the best backup point guards in the league. Zipping around the floor as fast as he always did, he's become a 43-percent three-point shooter and he almost never turns the ball over. Mills changes games when he gets hot, and can't be left open on the perimeter."

Cory Joseph was preferred to Mills in the latter stages of the Spurs western conference victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Dan Devine, writing for Yahoo America, analysed which guard would be preferred if Parker was to miss significant game time through injury during the NBA Finals series.

"Neither Mills nor Joseph have the playmaking gifts of Parker and Ginobili, but they each bring something else to the table — the threat of 3-point bombing from Mills, who attempted 7.5 long balls per 36 minutes of playing time this season and knocked 'em down at a 42.5 per cent clip, and the potential for an explosion from Joseph, as Ibaka recently learned," Devine wrote.

"Mills was the primary backup behind Parker throughout the regular season, while Joseph got more minutes in last year's finals (though that was inflated by 20 1/2 minutes in a Game 3 blowout). In a perfect world, Pop wouldn't have to rely on either for very much in this series; if Parker's sore left ankle flares up, though, they might matter way more than Spurs fans would like."

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Jesse Clark, writing for Bleacher Report, also turned his attention to the potential intra-squad duel between Mills and Joseph.

"Although Cory Joseph started at point guard when Parker missed time in the regular season, Mills has largely been the guard to replace the Frenchman when he is on the bench. While Parker will likely get the start, expect Mills to play more than his normal playoff average of 15 minutes per game," Clark wrote.

"Mills has proven to be an effective guard and has gained head coach Gregg Popovich's trust. This postseason, Mills has logged 275 minutes, compared to just 31 minutes for all of last year. He has also made 44 field goals, a huge difference from the five he converted during last year's playoffs.

"Look for Mills to provide a spark off the bench in Game 1."

But possibly the best story on Mills in the lead-up to the NBA Finals series came from San Antonio television station KENS 5.

According to reporter Rogelio Mares, Mills has proven a hit at 'The Roo Pub" — an Australian-themed bar — in the suburb of Stone Oak.

"It's on American soil, but don't feel bad if you forget you're in the U.S.A" Mares wrote. "'Aussie! Aussie! Aussie! Oi! Oi! Oi!'

Spurs fans chant at the Roo Pub' in Stone Oak, an Australian themed pub and for some fans it's the place to be on Spurs nights.

"What you might not know is there's a familiar face who helped give 'the Roo' an authentic 'down under' feel. Spurs guard, and Australian native, Patty Mills.

"'Patty really helped me with all the national monuments, the places to visit in Australia,' owner, Chip Ingram, said. 'To have his (sic) as somebody who can give me ideas and help me make this authentic, I don't think I could've done it otherwise.'

"It's become more than a Spurs hotspot, it's a Patty hotspot, as one fan explains.

"'We even got a saying when Patty's hot, making three-pointers, we call it 'the roo, the roo, the roo is on fire!'"

Do you think Patty Mills have a big impact in the NBA Finals?

14.24 | 0 komentar | Read More

No ‘white flag’ at Blues: Mick

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A DEFIANT Mick Malthouse insists there will be no "white flag" at Carlton, saying he won't dump senior players for the sake of it.

Malthouse, who said he was "not about to panic" over the uncertainty surrounding his contract, was irritated by suggestions the Blues faced a fork in the road.

SWIFT AXING OVER EXPLICIT IMAGES

He admitted there was a lack of youngsters at Visy Park ready to make the ascension to AFL level.

"I'm not here to hand out games," Malthouse said, adding the shock loss to Brisbane was "a blow, not a knock out punch".

"We are two games out of the eight. Any of my teams that ever fly a white flag, that is a very good indicator the playing group aren't listening to me.

"There will be no white flag here. We will be picking our best side to win on a week-to-week basis."

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Malthouse said clubs risked causing long-term damage to young players if they were played before their time.

"Whoever gets this notion to play all kids and drop senior players has never coached. That's simply it," he said.

"Some kids are just not ready to be played. Once thing that is absolutely certain ... when you bring a new player in ... you never bring him in without form. To expect a VFL player without form to come in and perform against a good side at the top level, it will destroy that kid and take him a long time to recover.

"It's like throwing someone in the deep end without any swimming lessons and saying, 'We'll see you down the other end'. It's ludicrous."

Asked if there was young talent demanding to be selected, Malthouse said: "No, there's not a lot there.

"The facts are we had a good mix in our draft; three from other clubs (Dale Thomas, Andrejs Everitt and Sam Docherty) who are all playing, and three 17 and 18 year-olds of which one has a broken leg in (Patrick) Cripps. One is close (Nick Holman) and the other one is injured as well (Cameron Giles).

Malthouse faces the media. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: News Corp Australia

"We are a very young reserves side. I'm not saying they can't play, but they're not ready for AFL football."

Malthouse, whose three-year deal expires at the end of 2015, was unconcerned over the lack of talk about an extension.

"Why would there be? I'm 17 months through a 36-month contract. I wouldn't expect it," he said.

"It's a rarity in my coaching career that I've ever coached beyond a three-year contract. I think I signed one when I first went to Collingwood.

"Basically it's always been a one-year extension. I've never panicked about it and I'm not about to now, particularly when I'm still only in my second year."

Malthouse said sacked defender Josh Bootsma had simply run out of chances.

"I'm disappointed for Josh. Since I've been at the club, and before that, the club has put in an enormous effort into all the players, but Josh has taken considerable time up with our people trying to organise his life," he said.

He said Blues' high-performance manager David Buttifant would decide whether Chris Judd made his return in the AFL or VFL.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Blog with Wallabies captain Stephen Moore

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THE Wallabies kick off their 2014 season this weekend and you have the chance to chat live with their new skipper, Stephen Moore.

The 91-Test star was on Monday named by Ewen McKenzie as Australia's 81st captain and he will lead his side on Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night to face France.

Moore will be on board from midday on Thursday to answer your questions about all things Wallabies, Les Bleus and rugby.

We will open up the blog below ahead of time so you can send through your questions early, and Moore will be on hand to answer them from noon AEST.

You can also send in your questions via Twitter — just tweet @FoxRugbyLive .

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Up for Cup: Pick Sturridge over Rooney

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IF the Socceroos got 3,000 to its training in Vitoria, just imagine for a moment the numbers flocking to watch the Selecao going through their paces.

"It was good to have 20,000 people here supporting us and hopefully we will have some 40,000 people tomorrow during the match," Brazil boss Luis Felipe Scolari said, although police estimates had it between 5 and 10,000.

Brazil's stars are mobbed by fans. Source: AFP

Scolari's men will play Panama overnight – their final hit-out before facing Croatia.

Hulk is set to start in a 4-2-3-1 formation, completing, along with Oscar and Neymar, a trident supporting spearhead Fred. The Daily Mail reports that the likely line-up Scolari will field will be: Julio Cesar, Daniel Alves, David Luiz, Dante, Marcelo, Luiz Gustavo, Ramires, Oscar, Hulk, Neymar and Fred.

"It would be good to have another week," Scolari said of the team's preparations. "But at the same time, deep inside me, knowing that my team will be prepared, I wanted it to start now. It's time to get this thing going."

Brazilian supporters attend the national team training session at Serra Dourada Stadium. Source: AFP

Meanwhile, if the hosts were looking for some inspiration, they got it via 17-year-old Leonardo Marques Tome. The teenager told his national heroes his moving story, living with arthrogryposis.

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And it didn't stop him blowing David Luiz and co away with his incredible, deft touch.

Watch it in the video at the top of the page.

MORE WORLD CUP NEWS AT OUR NEW HUB

The departing Spanish champions with the prime minister. Source: AFP

WE CARRY THE HOPES OF AN ENTIRE NATION

So said the plane carrying world champions Spain as it left for its World Cup defence.

RELAXED

Over to News Corp columnist Richard Hinds for this one, describing the laid back atmosphere at the Socceroos' overnight friendly:

"After that the female assistant referee who, in accordance with local style, wore shorts that might have been painted on attracted more admiring glances from the (press) box where the sangria was now flowing than the play itself," he wrote in his daily online column.

Socceroos practice match at Arena Unimed Sicoob against Brazilian state league side Parana Clube. Source: News Corp Australia

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

Socceroos practice match at Arena Unimed Sicoob against Brazilian state league side Parana Clube. Source: News Corp Australia

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ALWAYS BRING THE WEATHER WITH YOU!

Same old England, even in Miami!

Their first session at the Barry University campus was cancelled due to a torrential downpour.

"The schedule wasn't to do a lot anyway today," said James Milner. "We would have started off with a jog and the last bit would have been in the gym anyway. It's nice for me, this weather. It's like being at home again. The main thing is to be around the humidity. It gets you used to what we'll be having in Brazil."

Clouds circle England's hotel. Source: AFP

Milner gave further insight into the methods being used to help the players adjust to the much hyped up jungle conditions in Manaus, revealing heat chambers have also been used, in addition to the tracksuit-laden training sessions while the group were in Algarve in Portugal.

"It's very close here, the heat, so we did two sessions last week: one of 20 minutes and 30 minutes on bikes in the chambers," said Milner. "By doing that you're getting used to the conditions, simulating what we'll have. Everything we can possibly do for the World Cup we've done."

James Milner of England. Source: AFP

MILNER – MOCKED AS THE MOST BORING MAN ON TWITTER

While the Manchester City man has taken well to an account @BoringMilner poking fun at him on Twitter, he did wonder whether that perception for him as a footballer was fair.

"But you can look at the number of goals I've created in the Premier League in my career and see where that puts me. I'm sure I'd be quite high up in that. If a footballer can do that, create goals but also do a job for the team defensively, is that a bad thing? People say I'm a containing player. Maybe if I was lazy they wouldn't think that. If I kept more energy to go forward, what would the perception be then? Would I be lazy and shouldn't be playing because of that?"

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PLAYING FOR KEEPS

Not that money should play its part, but if England needed any more motivation to defy expectations and go all the way: Nike is dangling a $18m incentive.

The second-most lucrative kit deal at the World Cup, behind France, comes with the bonus should Roy Hodgson's men win the tournament.

Colombia's national soccer team coach Jose Pekerman with Radamel Falcao. Source: AP

FALCOU OUT, SUAREZ …

IN!

Uruguay's team doctor says striker Luis Suarez is recovering well from knee surgery and will be able to play in the team's World Cup opener against Costa Rica on June 14.

Suarez had keyhole surgery on his left knee just 10 days ago, but Dr. Alberto Pan says the Liverpool forward is already practicing twice a day with the rest of the team, stretching his muscles and running without pain.

The doctor says "we can confirm right now that Suarez is on the final team roster" and that he should be able to play from the start of the tournament.

Pan also said Monday that Suarez's positive attitude and tremendous desire to play has helped his recovery.

Italy's national football team forward Ciro Immobile (R) runs with teamate Alberto Aquilani. Source: AFP

TRANSFER TALK

Borussia Dortmund has signed Italy striker Ciro Immobile, a move that should help fill the void of the departing Robert Lewandowski.

Immobile led Serie A in scoring this past season with 22 goals for Torino and is part of the Italy squad for the upcoming World Cup.

Dortmund announced the signing on its website Monday, saying the 24-year-old Immobile signed a five-year deal effective from July 1. It did not disclose financial details.

German media suggested Dortmund was paying around 18.5 million euros ($25 million) for Immobile. His previous contract was split between Torino and Juventus.

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ALMOST A SPUR

Louis van Gaal is off to Old Trafford next season, but Netherlands' World Cup coach revealed how close he came to joining Tottenham first.

"I came very close. Very close. As a little boy I was a fan of Tottenham Hotspur with the team of Jimmy Greaves when he was the champion," van Gaal said.

"Jimmy Greaves was my idol. So I was very close. Why? Because I was a fan of Spurs during my childhood. Those fantastic white shirts and Jimmy Greaves."

Van Gaal has a reputation as a hard man, but revealed its tough love, and love, that is one of the secrets to his success.

"I'm bothered about whether the players like me. It's very important," he said.

"I am a coach who wants a good relationship with my players. And I do everything to reach that level but sometimes it is not reachable as the players are not open-minded and don't adapt to the norms that I put in the team.

"Most of the players I have managed are saying lovely things about me. There are also players who are very angry with me. Frank Ribery, Luca Toni, Hristo Stoichkov and Rivaldo.

"Rivaldo was nothing and I bought him and then he was a world player of the year.

"When you are not listening, you are always out of the team, or I go out."

Wayne Rooney arrives in Miami. Source: AFP

DECISIONS, DECISIONS

Gary Lineker has suggested Roy Hodgson should opt for Daniel Sturridge up top ahead of Wayne Rooney, with Raheem Sterling, Danny Welbeck and Adam Lallana mounting cases to be in the side ahead of the United talisman.

He told Blahzil 2014: "I think Sturrdidge gives us different options, He gives us a threat in behind the opposition which I think is very important. That's something that Rooney doesn't do as often.

"He (Rooney) is very good at coming off, creating space, turning, hitting shots hard and bringing other people into the game, but in terms of a threat in behind the opposition defence, that is Sturridge's territory."

Going for a walk in Florence. Source: AFP

PIRLO URGES BALOTELLI

The great Italian midfielder gave wide ranging interview with BBC radio – but he admits Italy is looking for someone to jump from the pack to score a hatful of goals. Could Mario Balotelli be that man?

"He is a good kid. He needs to show just what he is worth on the pitch. But the World Cup is a great opportunity for him to show his true quality," he said.

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14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Bellyache pained by NRL’s Origin stance

IF the NRL is serious about player welfare, it will introduce a stand-alone State of Origin series, according to Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy.

The Storm mentor's NRL club was thrust into an injury crisis following Billy Slater and Cooper Cronk's setbacks in game one. Bellamy was more worried about the many NRL players who did back up after Wednesday's classic Origin encounter, including Storm skipper Cameron Smith.

The former NSW coach accused the league of failing its duty of care.

"I've been saying for a few years that Origin should be alone," Bellamy said on Tuesday.

"Watching that on Wednesday night, I don't think I've ever seen a game of rugby league that physical. I can't imagine it getting any easier.

"They (NRL) keep talking about how much concern they've got for players' welfare and safety.

"That to me is a bit of a contradiction. They want the players to back up for club games."

Smith added his voice on Monday to the growing push for stand-alone Origin games, but the issue is not even up for debate at league headquarters.

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NRL chief executive Dave Smith said on Monday that changes to the Origin schedule would not happen under his watch.

Bellamy refused to bite when asked for his take on Smith's stubborn stance.

"The disappointing thing is they keep telling us they're very aware of players' safety and welfare," he said.

ORIGIN SURVIVOR LADDER

"It has got to affect them (players), playing a game like that and backing up a couple of days later."

Bellamy pointed out the quality of the competition also suffered during the Origin period, and that it had a knock-on effect on crowds.

But he added that such issues were irrelevant next to the welfare of players.

"That's got to be the (NRL's) No. 1 priority. I don't think it is," he said.

Billy Slater is unsure if he will be available for Origin II. Source: News Corp Australia

Slater is still in line to tackle the Blues in the second Origin clash despite a serious shoulder injury.

Bellamy has backed the Queensland fullback to be "a little bit sensible" as he decides whether playing on June 18 in Sydney is viable.

"If he's 85 or 90 per cent, he'll probably play. They'll probably put a needle in it," he said.

"With what Billy's been through, if he's 50-50, he'll probably rule himself out.

"If he thinks he can play, I'm not going to stop him." Bellamy said he had yet to settle on a halves combination for Sunday's home clash with the Sydney Roosters.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

NRL rules out stand-alone Origin

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THE battered and bruised players want the NRL shut down during State of Origin, but league boss Dave Smith has categorically ruled out a change to the controversial format.

Melbourne and NSW Blues forward Ryan Hoffman along with Storm and Queensland skipper Cameron Smith agree it is time to play the series as three stand-alone fixtures over three consecutive weeks.

Hoffman pointed to the big injury list from last week's Origin opener in Brisbane as proof of the increasing toll the series takes on its combatants.

Cameron Smith and Ryan Hoffman at the launch for State of Origin at the MCG. Source: News Corp Australia

The second-rower — who has played nine matches for the Blues — said it was only fair on the players and the clubs to stop the competition at this time of year.

"The NRL has gone to a new level this year and Origin has gone to a new stratosphere," Hoffman said.

"It's gotten even bigger and the build up is bigger, so is the game, which you could see by the amount of injuries the other night.

"I understand the hesitation about it (having stand-alone games), but I tell you what, it is so hard for these players.

"When the game is just getting harder and quicker and faster with bigger collisions, there has to be some give somewhere."

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But NRL chief executive Dave Smith a change to the format was not on his agenda.

"There are no plans whatsoever to consider putting the competition on hold," he said.

ORIGIN TO RETURN TO MCG NEXT YEAR

"I think the player welfare question is a fair one given it is a very significant competition.

"But I think the clubs do a very good job of managing player welfare if there is a game on the weekend.

"The format of Origin is incredibly successful and will continue to be successful."

NRL CEO Dave Smith has played down suggestions State of Origin could be a stand-alone series. Source: News Corp Australia

But that may not be the end of the matter.

On Monday Queensland captain Cameron Smith flagged the possibility of the players making a strong push for change.

"We have the option to do that with the players' association," the Test skipper said.

DEBATE: ORIGIN AT MCG WORTH THE RISK

"Given the amount of injuries on the weekend, maybe it is (time to push it).

"We have an important meeting coming up with the players' association, so I'm sure that will be addressed then."

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Hoffman said the Origin series was well and truly big enough to stand alone on its own.

"It's just my idea, but I'd be an advocate for stopping it for three weeks and run the Origin series over three consecutive weeks," Hoffman said.

"A lot of people have told me it was one of the most intense games they've ever seen and It certainly felt like that out there.

"It was such a fantastic spectacle and we should talking about that for a week.

"It's the pinnacle of rugby league, but unfortunately we have to play games on the weekend so it kind of gets pushed aside."

What do you think of the decision to take Origin to the MCG in 2015?

14.24 | 0 komentar | Read More

Pittard says rivals are Power hungry

Port Adelaide defender Jasper Pittard fronts the media. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: Sarah Reed / News Corp Australia

PORT Adelaide is finding life at the top tough.

Defender Jasper Pittard has admitted the first-placed Power has become a victim of its own success and is having to deal with rivals becoming more physical and putting more work into its players and game plan.

With a stunning 9-1 record, the hunter has become the hunted, he says.

"Definitely — that's what happens when you are top,'' Pittard said when asked if the players were getting more game-day attention than usual.

"I suppose in the past few years it's been Hawthorn, Sydney and Fremantle because you are chasing those teams, trying to combat them and maybe trying to play a little bit the way they do.

"Now that we are at the top of the ladder teams are putting a bit more focus on us and wanting to come over and knock us off, which is understandable.

"That's another good challenge for us because every week we are now faced with a new challenge and we try to enjoy that as much as we can.''

Bottom-eight side Melbourne tried to rough Port up in Alice Springs on Saturday while flying wingman Jared Polec was the latest Power player to be targeted by a tagger, with veteran Daniel Cross restricting him to a season-low 10 disposals.

Port Adelaide defender Jasper Pittard is put through his paces at training. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: News Corp Australia

Port, which had to fight hard to beat the Demons by 20 points after being headed in the final term, is bracing itself for another tough day in the office against 16th-placed St Kilda at home on Saturday.

While the 3-7 Saints are wobbling after a bright start to the season, they are coached by Power coach Ken Hinkley's former right-hand man, Alan Richardson.

Pittard noted no other senior AFL coach would have as much intimate knowledge of the Port players and the team's game plan.

"Richo has some inside knowledge on us, so it's going to be another tough one for us,'' he said.

"He knows a few of us quite well and the way Kenny wants us to play, so he will be able to combat that pretty well.

"His knowledge of us will be pretty fresh but we've tinkered with a few things over the pre-season, so we'll be able to bring a few different things hopefully.''

Pittard said while the players had noticed the lift in opposition pressure in recent weeks, he said the players had embraced the challenge and were treating it as "a good thing''.

"Because it gives us something to hone in on every week,'' he said.

"We know that teams are going to come out pretty hard against us every week because they want to knock us off, but I think we play our best footy when it's a real physical game and teams come at us — we like that.''

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Power sweat skipper’s injured ankle

Port Adelaide skipper Travis Boak leaves the ground after rolling his ankle early in the match. Picture: Phil Williams Source: Phil Williams / News Corp Australia

PORT Adelaide's best player and its captain Travis Boak has returned to Adelaide from Alice Springs on crutches with a sprained ankle.

Boak didn't put any weight on his right ankle which was strapped when he arrived at the airport this afternoon and he may require scans tomorrow morning.

But the fact that he hurt his ankle in the opening minutes of Saturday's win over Melbourne, hobbled from the field and into the rooms but later returned to run out the match has Power officials hopeful his injury is nothing more than a sprain and he should be right to play St Kilda next weekend.

Boak spent Saturday night icing his sore ankle before the flight home.

The other player on crutches at the airport was lightning fast midfielder Matt White who copped a knock to the shin, while Chad Wingard appeared in good spirits with his teammates despite being stretchered from the ground on Saturday with concussion after a heavy collision with star forward Jay Schulz.

Port captain Travis Boak returns to Adelaide airport. Picture: Supplied Source: Supplied

"I think Chad's probably the least of our worries at the moment, there are a few sore bodies out there but all those guys like Boaky and Whitey will be looked at over the next few days and hopefully they pull up for St Kilda," Power big-man Justin Westhoff said.

With Hamish Hartlett available after serving his one-week suspension and Dom Cassisi a chance to return from injury next weekend, Westhoff said coaching staff and selectors would not be tempted to rest Boak for the Round 12 clash against the 16th-placed Saints.

"We want to go in full strength, if those guys can play we want them to play," Westhoff said.

"We get Harts (Hartlett) back this week and hopefully Dom and those guys will boost the list but we definitely want Boaky to play as skipper of the club and we want Whitey back as well.

"It (Saturday) was a little bit hotter than what we've been used to but AFL is a tough game, we've come off a tough month and we're really looking to push ahead and hopefully hold our spot at the top of the table.

"No game is an easy game these days so it's full steam ahead."

The Power will finish Round 11 two games clear on top of the ladder after Gold Coast and Geelong failed to close the gap with losses to Adelaide and Sydney respectively.

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More

Young guns shine as Broncos romp home

Jack Reed celebrates after scoring one of the Broncos' early tries against Manly. Source: Darren England / News Corp Australia

BRISBANE have surged to be level with the NRL top four with a superb 36-10 victory over Manly at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Centres Dale Copley and Jack Reed both bagged tryscoring doubles as the Broncos shrugged aside concerns of a salary cap investigation to deliver one of their finest wins of the season.

RATE THE BRONCOS PLAYERS

It was Brisbane's third straight win and lifted the Broncos to a 7-5 record this year, level on 14 competition points with several clubs including reigning premiers Sydney Roosters, Melbourne and Parramatta.

Dale Copley is mobbed by teammates after scoring a try. Source: News Corp Australia

Brisbane were on from the opening whistle.

With halfback Ben Hunt in complete control and fullback Ben Barba more involved than ever, the Broncos were relishing their first daytime outing of 2014.

Lachlan Maranta had Brisbane's first four-pointer after just four minutes and then Alex Glenn put the Broncos 10-0 up after just eight minutes when he scored the simplest try.

Winger Daniel Vidot had taken a brilliant overhead Hunt kick only to be stripped as he attempted to ground the ball. Glenn merely placed his hand on the loose ball to be awarded the four-pointer.

The Broncos had raced to a 20-0 lead inside half an hour when Reed scored off a Josh Hoffman grubber before Manly looked to gain any sort of momentum in the contest.

The Sea Eagles pushed hard for points late in the half, but only secured one try to Kieran Foran.

The second half fightback never eventuated, with Copley's double taking Brisbane's lead out to 30-4 with 15 minutes to play.

Matt Gillett celebrates a 95 metre effort before diving over for the try. Source: News Corp Australia

Broncos forward Matt Gillett secured a memorable afternoon for his team when he sprinted 95m off a Manly loose ball to score in the corner and salute the crowd just before he dived over.

It was a disappointing afternoon for Manly, made worse with star playmaker Foran ending the day early with ice on an ankle injury.

Re-live both Sunday afternoon NRL games with our blog below!

14.23 | 0 komentar | Read More