Cruden conducts All Blacks masterclass

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Australian rugby has a new nemesis, capable of continuing the punishment for several more years after a masterful return to ANZ Stadium.

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Aaron Cruden played conductor to the All Blacks hauntingly ruthless orchestra, as familiar tunes of pain rang out in the Homebush air on Saturday night.

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Replacing an icon in Dan Carter  whose skills and boot have played a large part in Australia's miserable record against New Zealand in the past decade  Cruden distinguished any hope Australia may reap some advantage.

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The diminutive playmaker, now seriously making claims as rugby's premier five-eighth, erased memories of his horror Test debut at this very ground three years ago.

For all the positive spirit around Ewen McKenzie's first Test as Wallabies coach, a new era of attacking football and hopes of an end to the Bledisloe Cup drought, it was the All Blacks who displayed renewed zest and vigour.

Australia planned to dominate at the breakdown, and play "fast, up-tempo" rugby to run the All Blacks ragged.

As usual, the opposite occurred, as the Kiwis taught lessons about the game played in heaven, the game these black-uniformed goliaths play on Earth.

McKenzie's plans were always going to need time to bear fruit, but he will be sporting a sizeable headache on Sunday morning from bashing his head in the coaches' box.

Dumb kicks, soft tackling, awful turnovers, and what seemed like a dozen over-eager grounded passes with tries beckoning will facilitate much head-scratching and whiteboard marking in Wallabies camp this week.

Cruden started his man-of-the-match magic show two minutes in, sending Wallabies defenders to the left sideline, then the right sideline, with his accurate wide passing.

Then having drawn in too many in midfield, Cruden placed himself out wide, taking a pass from halves partner Aaron Smith before catching and hopping right in one movement, leaving Wallabies centre Adam Ashley-Cooper barely caressing his jersey.

Cruden held the ball just long enough to draw in last defender James O'Connor before throwing an audacious one-hand flick-pass to winger Ben Smith who opened the scoring. Cruden's sideline conversion was merely icing on the cake.

Australia took the lead in the 28th minute via Christian Leali'ifano's fourth penalty but 60 seconds later Cruden charged down a kick from Leali'ifano to put New Zealand ahead once more.

With the half-time siren sounding in the background, Cruden's immaculate wide run and inside ball opened space for centre Conrad Smith to stroll through, eventually leading to another penalty Cruden would convert to give his side a 25-19 lead at the break.

These scenes made his first match in the black jersey a distant memory.

That night, perhaps ominously on September 11, 2010, Cruden made a blundering start that had Australia poised for a famous victory before he was hooked from the field with a quarter remaining.

With Colin Slade coming on to assume the playmaking duties, the All Blacks scrambled with two late tries to win 23-22.

Before he took the field this week, Cruden explained: "It wasn't the way I wanted my starting career in the black jersey to pan out, but looking back at that game it's made me a better player.

"I've been able to bounce back from that and grow and mature as a player. I'm really comfortable in this environment now, I know exactly what I have to go and do."

Cruden has led the Chiefs to successive Super Rugby titles, last year was part of New Zealand's record Test scoreline against Ireland, and with his performance in this first Test will make it difficult for Carter to resume his place in the All Blacks side even when he fully recovers from his calf injury.

Australia's new key playmakers, Matt Toomua, Leali'ifano and Jesse Mogg have just seven Tests between them.

Toomua made a mixed debut on Saturday night, looking sharp with his passing but also dropping the ball and at times hesitating with his support. He was subbed off at the same time as Cruden was, with Quade Cooper taking the field for the final 19 minutes.

Toomua can take a cue from Cruden, who many thought couldn't wipe Carter's boots after Test one, but is now walking comfortably in them 23 internationals later.

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Rampant Lions tear Giants apart

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BRISBANE Lions put a turbulent week behind them with their biggest win of the season over Greater Western Sydney at the Gabba last night.

With former Fremantle mentor Mark Harvey taking over from the dumped Michael Voss as head coach, the Lions dominated the young Giants for a 18.15 (123) to 9.9 (63) victory.

5.5 (35)	Q1	1.1 (7)
12.7 (79)	Q2	3.2 (20)
16.12 (108)	Q3	4.4 (28)
18.15 (123)	Q4	9.9 (63)

Sam Mayes 4	Jeremy Cameron 2
Joshua Green 3	Stephen Coniglio 1
Brent Staker 3	Jonathan Giles 1
Daniel Merrett 2	Toby Greene 1
Daniel Rich 2	Tom Scully 1
Dayne Zorko 2	Mark Whiley 1
Pearce Hanley 1	Lachie Whitfield 1
Ashley McGrath 1	Zachary Williams 1

Voss's controversial mid-week axing was met with one of the lowest home crowds at the Gabba with only 13,855 fans turning out to watch the lop-sided affair.

Interim senior coach Mark Harvey said "it was different and a little strange" being at the helm of the Lions.

"It's been a difficult week in many ways," Harvey said.

"But we were happy with the way we pressured a young side.

"For most of the game, we controlled the tempo."

Playing his first game in seven weeks after overcoming a groin strain, 34-year-old veteran Simon Black again showed his class with 28 disposals against the outclassed GWS midfield.

At the other end of age scale, Brisbane teenager Sam Mayes who shone most in the drizzle with four first-half goals and 21 possessions from the wing.

The 60-point margin was almost double the 12th-placed Lions' previous biggest victory this season.

The Giants' heavy flooding tactics early backfired as they struggled for possession and opportunity and they ended up being eclipsed 67-41 for inside 50s and had 102 less disposals.

While there were few highlights for the Giants, they showed plenty of heart in the final term, kicking five goals to two after trailing by 80 at the last change.

Jeremy Cameron was restricted to two goals from limited chances but his double sees him move into a three-way tie with West Coast's Josh Kennedy and Hawthorn's Jarryd Roughhead for the Coleman Medal.

In an act of unselfishness, Cameron gave up a certain goal when he handballed to Lachie Whitfield in the goalsquare late in the game.

The Giants best first-year player last year Toby Greene showed an encouraging return to form with a game-high 31 disposals.

Fellow youngster Stephen Coniglio had 28 disposals and kicked long for the opening goal of the game, but it was the Giants' only major of the term as Brisbane quickly took control.

The Lions were forced to sub out star Irishman Pearce Hanley with a hip flexor injury which the club said will require scans in the coming days.

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Cox booked, Cats crush Eagles

Joel Selwood kicked four goals to colect 144 SuperCoach points.

CHAMPION West Coast ruckman Dean Cox is on report in another dark night for the Eagles and a horrible home ground mauling from Geelong at Patersons Stadium.

Cox, 32, was booked for an alleged off-the-ball striking incident with Cats midfield sensation and captain Joel Selwood.

2.1 (13)	Q1	6.1 (37)
2.3 (15)	Q2	11.5 (71)
4.5 (29)	Q3	15.9 (99)
6.5 (41)	Q4	16.11 (107)

Bradd Dalziell 1	Joel Selwood 4
Jack Darling 1	James Kelly 2
Josh Hill 1	Steven Motlop 2
Will Schofield 1	James Podsiadly 2
Scott Selwood 1	Mathew Stokes 2
Sharrod Wellingham 1	Allen Christensen 1
	Jordan Murdoch 1
	Nathan Vardy 1
	Joshua Walker 1

The six-times All-Australian, who announced on Friday he would play on next season with a new one-year contract, will have his hit investigated and assessed by the league's official match review panel on Monday.

Cox is in danger of missing West Coast's Friday night clash with Collingwood at the MCG and the end-of-season home clash with Adelaide in a fortnight.

It is only the second time in the big star's 271-game career that Cox has been booked.

Selwood turned in another outstanding display as the fearless follower racked up 29 possessions and rounded out his blitz with four goals as he continued a highly likely late season collection of Brownlow Medal votes that could run down Gold Coast hot favourite for the award Gary Ablett.

West Coast was blown apart inside the first half when the Cats slammed on another unanswered five goals approaching half-time and led by a whopping 56-points at the long break and ran away to a comfortable win 16.11 (107) to just 6.5 (41).

The Cats round out their qualifying appointments with successive games at their home ground fortress in Geelong against reigning premiers Sydney next Saturday and then Brisbane in Round 23.

The powerhouse Cats have won 47 of their last 49 games at home.

The Cats had winners all over the ground and while Selwood and his on-ball team dominated relentless defenders Harry Taylor and Tom Lonergan held West Coast power forwards Josh Kennedy and Jack Darling goalless.

Kennedy retained a share of the lead in the Coleman Medal with Hawthorn gun Jarryd Roughead and exciting newcomer Jeremy Cameron from Greater Western Sydney with 60 majors, ahead of Collingwood big man Travis Cloke on 58.

Kennedy and Darling managed only eight possessions each and four marks between them to the final change when the ruthless Cats led by 70 points.

Darling booted his only goal inside the last two minutes of the dismal night.

West Coast drove a dagger into the heart of arch rival Fremantle's top-two chances for next month's finals with the insipid loss.

The Cats all-but sealed a second-place finish for the opening week of premiership play-off series and closed the door on Fremantle climbing into the top-two as the Eagles already remote finals hopes are now dashed altogether.

Selwood ignited a possessions frenzy around the ball as the Cats burst to a five-goal lead inside the opening 13 minutes and were never threatened again.

Geelong's first 14 goals were all booted from running and field snaps in damp and slippery conditions generated from a complete dominance around congestion.

Selwood, 25, has now had four best-on-ground outings that could attract top Brownlow votes inside his last seven games.

Geelong playing great and 2011 premiership captain Cameron Ling revealed in his television commentary that a fast start had been strategic for the Cats to stifle the Eagles on their home turf.

West Coast has been an easy kill in Perth this season with seven losses in 11 engagements at home.

The slick Cats wasted no time asserting control with a wide open forward line and two quick goals on the run from dangerous pair Steven Motlop and Mathew Stokes inside four minutes.

Motlop turned in a stunning start with six possessions and a second goal in the opening 10 minutes and then athletic big men Nathan Vardy and Josh Walker ran into open goals for a fourth and fifth and an alarming 31-point lead and the home side defence ripped to shreds.

Motlop, 22, outgunned three separate Eagles opponents in his opening blitz and was withdrawn at half-time with hamstring tightness and the premiership points and Cats 16th win of the season sealed.

His fourth minder for the term was renowned defender Patrick McGinnity as West Coast instigated a tighter one-on-one all over the field in a bid to slow the Cats free-wheeling from midfield into the vital scoring zones.

An anticipated match-up made from the classics was tough Eagles tagger Scott Selwood with the assignment to try and curb the potential dominance from his older brother and hard-core Cats captain Joel.

It wasn't a full-on brotherly reunion as West Coast rotated some of their most experienced on-ballers through minding duties on the influential Cats skipper and play-maker.

Selwood, as so often he does and especially with another remarkably consistent season, led an onslaught around the ball along with big possession winning regulars Corey Enright, Andrew Mackie and Jimmy Bartel as well as veteran James Kelly streaming from backward of centre with precise delivery into the dashing small forward battery of Stokes and Motlop who were constant dangers around goal.

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Wallabies won't throw in the towel

Wallabies centre Adam Ashley-Cooper looks dejected after his side's loss to the All Blacks at ANZ Stadium. Picture: Brendon Thorne Source: Brendon Thorne / Getty Images

EWEN McKenzie says the Wallabies won't give up the Bledisloe Cup despite a thumping 47-29 loss to the All Blacks in his first Test.

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It may have been the start of a bright new era in Australian rugby but it was the same old dark result at ANZ Stadium, with the Kiwis pouncing on numerous mistakes to score a 18-point win.

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The New Zealanders boasted 300 more Test caps than the new-look McKenzie Wallabies and the gulf was clear as the visitors scored six tries to the home side's two.

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In-form Super Rugby players came up against a seasoned Test outfit and the difference was stark, with any small error or lapse in Australian concentration punished by the world no.1 side.

MATCH CENTRE: Full scores and statistics

The 47-points rattled up by the All Blacks was more than the Wallabies conceded under old coach Robbie Deans in the third Lions Test, and was the third highest tally given up by Australia in Bledisloe history. The Wallabies have now conceded 88 points in their two Tests.

Bold plans to win back the the Bledisloe Cup are in tatters, with the big urn appearing destined to stay in New Zealand's iron grip for an 11th straight year.

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The Wallabies, who meet the Kiwis again on Saturday, now need to end a losing streak in New Zealand dating back to 2001 to stay alive in the series. They then need to win a second-straight game across the ditch in October to lift the trophy.

Throw in the fact they're up against one of the great rugby teams of the modern era - led superbly by Richie McCaw again on Saturday night - and it all seems highly unlikely.

But in the face of the escalating odds, McKenzie was attempting to remain positive, saying the Wallabies were not heading to Wellington to be All Black fodder.

''I've been around the rugby scene for a long time. If you look at a lot of results, you'll see 70-point turnarounds in seven days,'' McKenzie said.

"We just have to focus on the right things. We will tidy up our errors, we will definitely focus on those things.

"But there are other ways. There are things we did where a little bit more precision will work quite well. We knew what we were trying to do.There were certainly some opportunities out there we didn't so with all that, we will move forward.

"I am not going to sit here and get bogged down and spin our wheels. We will concentrate on the positives and tidy up the things we contributed to the negatives."

There were lots of new names in the Wallaby line-up but the All Blacks only needed two to overwhelm Australia - McCaw and Smith.

After playing less than 80 minutes all year following a sabbatical, the Kiwi skipper was a freak of nature in a full-game performance of strength, scoring a try and stifling hopes of quick Wallaby attack by creating havoc at the breakdown.

Three Smiths in the All Black team did the rest - winger Ben, centre Conrad and halfback Aaron.

Playing on the right edge, Ben Smith scored a hat-trick of tries, Conrad Smith scored one as well and Aaron Smith was a constant thorn in the Wallabies side with dangerous bursts from the ruck.

Australia's attack, in comparison, broke down like a old jalopy.

With New Zealand effectively slowing down possession, the Wallabies looked panicked, and a lack of confidence led to numerous mistakes.

New boys in the starting side Matt Toomua and Jesse Mogg had mixed nights, with the five-eighth's inexperience showing in not attacking the line more often and Mogg hooked after 50 minutes after a rattled performance.

A late try from James O'Connor narrowed the gap in the scoreline, and gave the Wallabies a respectable 29 points, but it was all too late.

"Every time you lose a game it's disappointing," McKenzie said.

"We have to respect possession more. We didn't control the ball and they were able to play and do some of the things they're good at.

"We paid a price for that."

Horwill defended his side's recent history of conceding 88 points in two Tests, saying there was no problem with attitude.

"I don't think there is a problem with attitude in defence, we just need to tighten up turnovers," Horwill said.

"Most of their tries came from our turnovers. We just need to be better at holding the ball."

New Zealand led 25-19 at halftime after scoring three tries to the Wallabies' one - a sizzling 60-metre run from Will Genia.

Lealiifano's boot kept Australia in the game but sloppy play saw the Kiwis kick away in the second half, when mistakes in general play and at the scrum under new laws - which were a bit of a debacle - saw New Zealand pounce, and pick up another three in the second period.

NEW ZEALAND 47 (Ben Smith 3, Aaron Cruden, Richard McCaw, Conrad Smith tries Cruden 3, Beauden Barrett cons Cruden 3 pens) bt AUSTRALIA 29 (Will Genia, James O'Connor tries Christian Leali'ifano 2 cons 5 pens) at ANZ Stadium. Referee: Craig Joubert. Crowd: 68,765.

Replay the Bledisloe Cup I discussion in our match blog below.

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Poms have always played dirty

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WHY were we all that surprised when South Sydney forward Sam Burgess put a squirrel grip on Melbourne Storm centre Will Chambers last Friday night?

After all, he is an English rugby league player.

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Remember last year's grand final when Bulldogs forward James Graham took a chunk out of Billy Slater's ear?

He was a Pom, too.

League's lowest acts

And before them, Adrian Morley.

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Remember him? He played six seasons for the Roosters between 2001 and 2006 for 11 foul-play offences and 26 weeks of suspensions.

The biggest was his last, a seven-week ban for a striking charge in 2006.

Colleague Dean Ritchie was on the sideline for 2GB that day at ANZ Stadium.

"He kneed Corey Hughes at the play-the ball - it was one of the most reckless and dirtiest acts I've seen on a football field," Ritchie recalled.

"That was the last we saw of him."

Headbutting, grabbing testicles, biting, kneeing, kicking and king hits - you name it, the Poms have been doing it for more than 50 years.

Former Manly forward Peter Peters tells a fabulous story about Malcolm Reilly's debut for the Sea Eagles in 1971 against Souths at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

He'd been in the country only two days.

When they arrive at the SCG, Reilly starts asking about their opponents and according to Peters, the conversation went like this:

Reilly: Who's their best player?

Peters: Where do you want me to start? Coote, McCarthy, Sait, Pittard, Simms, Branighan …

Reilly: Cmon, who's their best?

Peters: Probably McCarthy.

Reilly: What's his number?

Peters: 10

Reilly: Who kicks off for us?

Peters: Denis Ward.

Reilly: Make sure he kicks it into touch on the full.

And so he did. In those days it meant at scrum back at halfway and Peters takes up the story.

"The touch judges and the refs were watching the ball sail into touch," Peters said.

"As it was happening, Malcolm has elbowed Macca in the head.

"He's face down in the Bulli soil on the cricket pitch and got carted off.

"And that was Malcolm's Reilly's first 30 seconds in the Sydney premiership."

Reilly's fight with South Sydney's George Piggins on the same ground a few years later is often spoken about as the most brutal one-on-one exchange in rugby league history.

Even decades later the Poms were still getting up to their old tricks.

In a story that's never been told from a Test match in 1992 at the Sydney Football Stadium, Australia's champion lock Bradely Clyde copped a "John Hopoate finger" in the backside from Great Britain centre Garry Schofield.

"Yes, it happened," Clyde confirmed Thursday. "I don't know if he was trying to put me off my game or get me to react and draw a penalty.

"I didn't bother retaliating. I was one of those players that if my mind wandered off the actual footy, my game suffered.

"But I'll never forget Bozo (coach Bob Fulton) flagged the incident at a team video session before the next Test."

Cliff Watson was one of the original English hard heads to come to these shores.

He announced himself in the "Battle of Brisbane" Test in 1970, when he and Jim Morgan infamously engaged in a headbutting competition that left the Kangaroos prop with a nose so badly broken his son didn't recognise him in the dressing room after the game.

He is credited for bringing the "Liverpool kiss" to Australia.

The giant prop joined Cronulla and was a central figure in the most brutal grand final ever played in 1973, when the Sharks narrowly went down to Manly.

In a chat with current Sharks captain Paul Gallen this year, Watson gave a blunt assessment of his playing style in relation to the modern game.

"I wouldn't be on the field with my style of play," he said.

The NRL has revealed Burgess came within a just a centimetre of getting a six-week dangerous contact charge rather than two weeks for contrary conduct.

"It was minor contact," said Greg McCallum, the head of the match review panel.

"If he'd got a handful and squeezed, it would have been grade-three dangerous contact.

"We looked at extra angles from Channel Nine and it was more the image of what he did - it looked terrible."

Burgess has apologised to his South Sydney teammates over the incident.

But there's been no word of an apology to the player who really deserved one … Will Chambers.

Typical bloody Pommy.

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Riding the Inglis express

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ON Friday night, Greg Inglis will show why he is one of the greatest signings of the modern era, as Souths, with his influence re-emerge as a serious title favourite.

In 2013, with Greg Inglis brutalising defences, South Sydney have proved a monster of a football team. A team with great confidence, a decisive game plan, a relentless desire and a sense of destiny.

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But in the last month without their champion, they have looked vulnerable, indecisive, with a sliding self-belief.

Against the Melbourne Storm last Friday night the Rabbits competed hard, but it was the Storm's mistake-ridden performance rather than Souths themselves, which kept them in it.

The Bunnies' attack lacked penetration and was far too sideways with the Melbourne defence simply shuffling them towards the touchline.

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Only young Luke Keary really went directly into the defence of Melbourne and showed what a future he has.

But on Friday night Inglis returns and so will the real Souths Sydney.

Here's why he makes such a difference to every aspect of their game.

No player has ever returned the football from kicks with such size, speed and power.

From the moment Inglis returns that football Souths immediately find themselves tearing up field, picking up more and more momentum as the set goes along.

With Inglis' dynamic kick returns and lightning quick play-the-balls South Sydney simply play a momentum-based game, using Isaac Luke as the focal point of their attack, jumping out of dummy-half, torturing retreating defenders and putting his monster forwards into gaps.

Throw in Johnny Sutton and Adam Reynolds looking for a contribution and it's clear this is an attack that doesn't need to look to the edges of the field to generate a serious threat.

Over the past month, without Greg's punch on early tackles, Luke hasn't been able to quite get out of dummy-half as easily, opposition defences aren't reeling backwards and so as a consequence, in an attempt to create, the ball is pushed sideways and suddenly everything looks like hard work. Because it is.

Apart from his ability to create something out of nothing, this is the beauty of Greg Inglis: he generates guaranteed go-forward and allows his team to play simple football.

But Souths aren't the only ones with something to prove.

How far have Manly come in the past few months?

Yes, they have been in great touch, but let's not forget what happened in late April, the last time these two teams met.

At home at Brookvale Oval, Manly simply couldn't contain the size and power of the Rabbitohs, with the final scoreline of 20-12 to Souths not really a true indication of the red and green dominance.

These two title contenders have contrasting styles.

Manly's speed, skill and footwork through the middle has the propensity to cause Souths just as many problems, as the Bunnies' size will worry the Sea Eagles.

Manly are a beautifully balanced side. On the left, Kieran Foran's direct ball-playing looks to place Justin Horo into holes, while on the right, Daly Cherry-Evans and Glenn Stewart provide the creativity, Brett Stewart the speed, Jamie Lyon the class.

But Anthony Watmough is a huge loss. Watmough is exactly the type of player who causes the giant Souths forwards headaches.

Without Watmough's speed and footwork zipping through the middle, I'm not sure if Manly can generate enough momentum to blow apart the big Souths pack.

Friday night is a great test of both sides' true premiership credentials.

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Kahu from homeless to hero

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HE is the NRL young gun who once lived in a car. But Jordan Kahu's rugby league future has hit top gear with the boom utility signing an upgraded deal with the Broncos.

The courage of Kahu, who has fought back from two knee reconstructions, cannot be questioned.

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On Friday night, he returns to the Broncos line-up at Suncorp Stadium, where he will take on the Eels with a metal plate and five screws in the left hand he broke against Cronulla five weeks ago.

But the Broncos have rewarded Kahu for his persistence, delivering a two-year contract that will keep the 22-year-old at Red Hill until the end of 2015.

For Kahu, who was being pursued by the Sharks, the deal also represents security - a far cry from the days when his family slept in a car as he chased his NRL dream.

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In 2008, unable to break into New Zealand's rugby ranks, Kahu, his older brother Jared and father Dave bought a one-way ticket to Australia.

Without a home, Dave purchased a light-blue Mitsubishi Magna. For a week, it doubled as a roof over their heads, a period Kahu fondly recalls for instilling the toughness that has underpinned his rise at the Broncos.

"It didn't bother us sleeping in a car, as long as we were together we were happy," Kahu said.

"When we got here, we had nowhere to stay, so we would crash by the beach and wake up and go for a swim.

"It wasn't as bad as it sounds. It was quite fun. When we flew here, we didn't know anyone, so we didn't care where we stayed.

"What I've gone through the past few years, especially with my knees, has taught me a lot about patience, dedication and hard work.

"That hard work has paid off now. I guess what doesn't kill you makes you stronger."

And calmer. For most of the season, Kahu has been in limbo as a free agent for 2014, but has managed to hold his nerve.

Last month, the talented fullback, winger or centre signed off on a two-year deal after making his NRL debut against the Storm in March.

"I have a lot to repay the Broncos for looking after me the last three or four years," said Kahu, who plays his ninth NRL game Friday night.

"They have done a lot for me and my family and I was keen to stay. I didn't want to go anywhere else.

"I did have a bit of interest, but I didn't talk much with any other clubs, I just waited until the Broncos offered me something.

"I didn't want to quit, I love it here and seeing as I'm playing at the moment I didn't have any excuse to leave.

"I'm happy to be a Bronco and happy to be one for the next few years."

With Justin Hodges sidelined for an extended period, Kahu believes he can be an important backline contributor on Brisbane's right side.

"It is a loss with 'Hodgie' out and the rest of the team will have to step up and make up for him being injured," he said.

"I don't mind the wing because you score more tries. Confidence-wise I am fine. The hand feels good again and I'm ready to go."

Broncos coach Anthony Griffin lauded Kahu's development amid adversity.

"He's a good kid," he said.

"He's done a great job for us, it's just great to see him back. Every time he has pulled on a jersey whether it would be wing or centre, he's done a really good job for us."

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Hawks backing a Roughy

Jarryd Roughead continues to grow in importance. Source: JOE CASTRO / AAP

LANCE Franklin may be the million-dollar man, but Jarryd Roughead is the most precious piece of Hawthorn's forward puzzle, according to former goalkicking coach Ben Dixon.

As Franklin continues to weigh up the biggest contract offer in Hawthorn's history, Roughead has produced the form of his life, kicking 59 goals while adding another big-bodied weapon to Alastair Clarkson's midfield.

Going in to tonight's blockbuster against Collingwood at the MCG, Roughead sits second in the Coleman Medal race behind West Coast's Josh Kennedy.

But it has been his stints in the midfield that have helped the No.2 draft pick show his full armoury and become one of the most versatile and complete players in the game.

He has averaged 3.1 goals and 16 possessions a match, up from three and 12 in his 2008 premiership campaign.

"It's definitely my most consistent year," Roughead told the Herald Sun.

"In 2008, I might only have eight or nine touches and kick a couple (of goals) a game."

He said he was enjoying his time in the midfield because "I can go get the nut rather than just having it delivered it to me all the time".

Dixon, the 203-game forward who helped mentor Roughead on the field and later as forwards coach, said the 26-year-old's year so far was a "9 1/2 out of 10".

Dixon said Roughead, who re-signed this year for two more seasons, was more important to the Hawks on-field than Franklin.

"I love 'Franko', but Roughead has been more consistent and the reward he is getting in front of goal now is enormous," he said.

"He doesn't miss his shots and the versatility he has shown playing inside the centre square and not as a ruckman - he just has an uncanny ability for a big man below his knees.

"He is so clean it's amazing and he has learnt how to use that big body as a weapon. He is a beast.

"And he has a lot of presence on and off the field."

Dixon said Roughead was a strong candidate to take over from Luke Hodge as Hawthorn's next captain, such was the respect teammates had for him.

"He is so level-headed and extremely well respected," Dixon said.

"Part of that is the way he holds himself on the field and away from the footy club.

"But you talk to (fitness coach) Andrew Russell and go through the figures over the last five years.

"Of the key-position players he rates in 90th percentile for workrate.

"He doesn't miss a session, he does everything to a tee and, aside from that achilles injury, his body never breaks down. That's because he ticks every box. His preparation is flawless."

Franklin, who is seventh in this year's Coleman Medal race with 47 goals, paid tribute to his teammate this week, saying Roughead's impact on games was still underrated.

"Roughy is in terrific form. He has had an unbelievable season," Franklin said on SEN. "I reckon Roughy would be winning the best-and-fairest by a long way.

"Every week he is kicking goals and getting a lot of touches, and the best thing about him is he is a team player."

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Players could sue Bombers, says lawyer

Players ... Essendon could be liable of the health of players was overlooked. Source: Michael Dodge / Getty Images

ESSENDON and key officials could face legal action from the club's own players, according to the lawyer representing former Cronulla Sharks player Isaac Gordon.

James Chrara, of Shine Lawyers, said the health and well-being of players would become a focus as the supplements saga dragged on.

He said it was possible the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority investigation, which was continuing, could turn up evidence that showed the club or club officials had failed in their duty of care to players.

It is understood there is effectively no time limit on when a player could bring action. It is possible that ill-effects from supplements could emerge at a much later date.

Some Essendon players are known to have expressed concern about the possibility of future health problems since the supplements program was brought to light in February.

Essendon coach James Hird on Tuesday maintained "none of our players have (been) shown to take performance-enhancing drugs, none of our players have shown that they've been harmed by anything that's been given".

The AFL on Tuesday night laid disrepute charges against the club, Hird, senior assistant Mark Thompson, club doctor Bruce Reid and football manager Danny Corcoran.

The charges will be heard at an AFL Commission hearing on August 26.

The league could also lay future charges under its rules against former Essendon high performance staff Dean Robinson and Stephen Dank, although any sanction would be moot as neither is now working in the AFL.

Dank has maintained that no Essendon player was given a performance-enhancing or harmful drug.

The AFL said that on the evidence it had, no doping charges would be brought against individual players.

Future infraction notices may be issued as ASADA continues to investigate.

It is understood that a lack of clarity around which players were given what could make charges unlikely - but would not mean they were not exposed to potentially harmful supplements.

Gordon was at the Sharks in 2011 - the period which is under ASADA investigation - and claims that as a result of the supplements program there, he suffered a blood-thinning disorder, severe bruising and was told by doctors that a blow to the head could have been fatal.

Chrara said each player's case had to be weighed on merit.

"We're focused on the outcomes for the players - our view is there may be multiple causes of action available to the Essendon players against their club, coaching staff and players," he said.

"It would depend on the players' individual circumstances in the program.

"I understand there was some tailoring of supplement programs for individual players, what they were exposed to, so you need to assess every case on its merits.

"It is pretty clear that Essendon's management and coaches and trainers have got a legal duty to the players - this is to do all they responsibly can to prevent the players being injured or exposed to harm."

Chrara would not say if Shine was representing any Essendon players.

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Legal army could cost Dons, AFL $4mil

Battle ... James Hird has his own legal team. Source: Scott Barbour / Getty Images

ESSENDON will be forced to increase its $5 million debt to pay for skyrocketing legal costs as it fights a charge of bringing the game into disrepute.

The real winners from the legal battle are the lawyers working for the AFL and the Bombers, with some estimates suggesting the eventual combined legal cost could reach $4 million.

The AFL has retained Minter Ellison, while Essendon and James Hird are using separate representatives.

The cost of the fight would escalate if Essendon takes its battle to the Supreme Court, where barristers and senior counsel who charge as much as $10,000 a day would be needed.

If the club is found guilty of bringing the game into disrepute, it could also face a multi-million-dollar fine from the AFL.

The Bombers are also protecting lucrative sponsorships with Kia Motors and True Value Solar, with large companies increasingly demanding get-out clauses for controversies.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou this year called Kia to give it what he called "code perspective" and assure it the Dons were complying with the AFL-ASADA investigation.

The Bombers had already warned their fans the club could take on some debt to bridge a funding shortfall for its high-performance centre at Melbourne Airport.

Essendon said in its annual report last year it had secured $19 million of $25.5 million funding for the centre.

But "as a result of the likely capital shortfall the club will take on a manageable amount of debt to complete construction by the middle of 2013".

The club reported a $401,429 profit last year and at that time forecast it would pay down its debt by 2015.

For the first time in many years Essendon finds itself owing a significant sum - about $5 million - due almost exclusively to the Melbourne Airport development.

Hird has hired Ashurst industrial law expert Steven Amendola, human rights lawyer and QC Julian Burnside, veteran spin doctor Ian Hanke and has been advised by barrister friend Nick Harrington.

Linked to Essendon are QC Jack Rush, leading criminal lawyer Tony Hargraves, and communications firm The Shannon Company.

Essendon and the AFL will be using their legal representatives to potentially broker a deal and run the case before the AFL Commission, but lawyers will hit pay dirt if the case goes to court.

Legal experts said a standard pay structure meant if a barrister or senior counsel charged $10,000 a day, their hourly rate would be $1000.

One of Essendon's coterie groups is the Law Dons, a legal group of Bomber supporters formed by judge Tony Howard in 1999, so it has no shortage of legal experts among supporter ranks.

The Bombers recently projected a profit in a series of figures provided to AFL chief executives at a two-day conference in Creswick - one of a minority of clubs to be able to do so - but acknowledged potential fines and legal costs were yet to be factored in.

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Sterlo: Bunnies still in the hunt

George Burgess and Ben Te'o celebrate a try against the Storm. Source: Scott Barbour / Getty Images

The one thing that never crossed my mind when I left AAMI Park last Friday night was to put a line through the chances of South Sydney in relation to this season's title.

In fact despite the 26-8 score-line on the back of four tries to one, I left the Storm's home ground almost as impressed by the vanquished as I was the victors.

Melbourne did what Melbourne do, especially south of the border.

Gain the early ascendency, turn that into points and then defend that lead better than anyone else.

However to my eye there were large periods in the second half when the Rabbits were coming to get them. Unfortunately those periods were soured by some tough calls and a degree of misfortune.

There's no doubt the better side won but I certainly wasn't disappointed in Souths' effort and despite having now lost three of their last four games, I haven't abandoned the bandwagon.

---

Tune into Sterlo LIVE on Fox Sports 1HD from 7.30pm Thursday, as rugby league's best analyst previews all the big games in round 23 and gets inside the world of Johnathan Thurston.

---

The visitors couldn't have gotten away to a worse start, conceding two "soft" tries in the opening eight minutes.

Especially soft in that the hard work had been done and should never have led to opposition points.

Cooper Cronk exploring on the 5th tackle only to fling the ball blindly back when his run ended, should have led to Melbourne being closed down after a rare, poor last tackle decision.

Instead the laziness of inside defenders allowed Will Chambers to waltz through almost untouched to open proceedings.

No excuse at all for Souths but a reinforcement that you can never tune out, even when you see the ball is going the other way. In the NRL it will invariably come back and find you out.

The second try was just as poor in that the Rabbits had defended Melbourne's attack and kick only to have Dylan Farrell gang-tackled back into his own in-goal and forced into error.

Kudos to the Storm defence but both of these tries should have been prevented.

At this stage things looked particularly ominous for Souths and a big defeat stared them squarely in the face.

This was a test of character and in my opinion they passed.

Ten minutes into the second half the Storm led 14-8 but the Rabbits were physically on top.

Sam Burgess was then penalised for tackling Billy Slater in the air. He wasn't.

Six tackles later, after a sublime Cronk pass, Sisa Waqa was ruled to have scored. He didn't.

Again Souths should have been able to defend disappointment but even at 18-8 the run of general play indicated that they were still very much alive in the contest.

That was until they were dealt a double blow with an injury to Dylan Farrell.

Not only was the young winger eventually carried from the field but the time it took for extended medical assistance definitely helped Melbourne's cause.

While they maintained a 10-point lead going into the final quarter of the game they were looking particularly fatigued and a substantial punctuation in play was extremely beneficial.

Again Melbourne reacted better to the situation to regather and soon after ice the game with a try to Justin O'Neill.

Now much of this might sound like a litany of excuses for the South Sydney performance but I just felt that the final margin wasn't a true reflection of the contest I witnessed.

There are definitely a number of areas that need to be addressed as a result of their trip to the southern capital but I do think they would have returned to Sydney more encouraged than discouraged.

Their credentials will get another significant test tomorrow night against a Manly team gathering good momentum as the play-offs approach.

The Eagles may be positioned back in third spot but they are already playing a finals style of football and come off a comfortable victory over the Warriors.

Souths' chances are obviously enhanced with the return of big guns Greg Inglis and John Sutton but the absence of Sam Burgess is a blow.

There's no defence for the big Englishman whose frustration would have been better vented by a defensive shoulder to an attacker's rib cage than an indiscretion lower down.

What is hard to fathom is the thought that a silly action like that would not be picked up by the numerous camera angles that are focussed in on every aspect of play.

Twenty-four hours before that game I'm delighted and excited to continue an inside look into the inner sanctum of the NRL.

On my show on Fox Sports on Thursday night at 7.30pm you will see and hear the game's best player Johnathan Thurston wearing a microphone as he produces another five-star, man-of-the-match performance against the Panthers.

Two weeks ago with Kevin Kingston we dipped our toe into the unknown. This week we dive right in.  

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Stats aren't pretty in Carter absence

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Carter won't feature in either of the opening two Bledisloe matches. Source:AAP

THE All Blacks arrive in Sydney on Thursday night for another Bledisloe Cup campaign and the fact Dan Carter is at home injured majorly improves the Wallabies' chances of victory, right? Surely?

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Sorry, but wrong.

Brace yourself long-suffering Wallaby fans, but statistics suggest the All Blacks are harder to beat in trans-Tasman clashes without Carter than when the Kiwi superstar plays against Australia.

Of the six clashes against Australia that Carter has missed since his debut in 2003, the Kiwis have only lost one: the Rugby World Cup semi-final later that year.

The no-Carter winning percentage is 83%, but overall, when the brilliant All Blacks star is playing, the percentage drops to 75%.

Of his 24 Bledisloe Cup clashes with the Wallabies, Carter has won 18, lost five and drawn one.

The figures aren't hugely complimentary for the Wallabies on other score but the evidence of New Zealand's ability to cope without their star playmaker is still not the encouraging material Australian rugby would have hoped for this week.

Carter was ruled out for a month with a calf injury on Tuesday, meaning he'll miss the opening Bledisloe Cup clash on Saturday night and the return clash in Wellington next weekend.

Given Carter's knack for driving a stake through Wallaby hearts over the last decade, it's only logical to assume his absence would have been quietly welcomed by Ewen McKenzie and his players.

But as with the 2011 Rugby World Cup, when Carter was lost before the finals after tearing a groin, the All Blacks camp has remained confident they have sufficient depth.

The Wallabies were unable to beat the Carter-less Kiwis in the semi-final of that tournament and the ability of his replacement, Aaron Cruden, has skyrocketed in the two years since.

Cruden led the Chiefs to back-to-back Super Rugby titles just two weeks ago, and has been in superb form in the back half of 2013.

So impressive has he been, in fact, the first seeds of an unthinkable debate began in New Zealand: has Cruden passed Carter?

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The Wallabies said Cruden was enviable cover and All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said with usual bluster that Carter's injury was "no big deal to me".

"We are really fortunate that we have more than one world-class five-eighth," Hansen said.

"Aaron has been on top of his game all season and has just going through two major (Super Rugby) matches with a lot of intensity and pressure.

"He's ready to rumble and he's also played a couple of Tests this year so he understands what we're trying to do. He's part of the leadership group so it's business as usual."

So does this all point to the Bledisloe Cup drought stretching to an 11th year? Not necessarily.

Statistics also show Carter is not a man you simply replace, particularly against Australia.

His prolific pointscoring – mostly through deadly accurate goalkicking – has repeatedly sunk the Wallabies, including at Homebush. In 2009 he kicked a 77th minute penalty for a 19-18 victory.

Of 18 wins over Australia, Carter's boot accounted for the All Blacks' winning margin 10 times, and either equalled or beat the Wallabies' entire points tally on his own nine times. He has averaged 13.4 points per game against Australia.

Despite losing only once without him, the All Blacks' average winning margin over the Wallabies dropped from 14 with Carter to just seven points without him.

This could suggest that despite Cruden's competence, the All Blacks are not as efficient in scoring points with Carter. If there is one worry in New Zealand about Cruden, it's his goalkicking.

It can be fairly described as ordinary so far in 2013, with an average success rate of just 69.4% in Super Rugby a long way off Carter's 86.4%, and behind the 78.5% of Wallabies kicker Christian Lealiifano too.

Cruden has generally got the job done with the boot when needed, including in the final, but his tendency to have off-nights would be a "big deal" to Hansen.

In nine games with kicking duties for the Chiefs this year, Cruden kicked less than 60% of his goals. In the round 20 showdown with the Blues, Cruden couldn't hit a barndoor with a cowbell, kicking one from five.

With no other recognised kickers in the All Blacks side, Cruden will have the job on Saturday night.

All Blacks v Wallabies

When Carter is MISSING: W:5, D:0, L:1. %: 83.3. Avg For: 21.7. Avg Aga:17.8

When Carter is PLAYING W: 18, D:1, L:5. %:75. Avg For: 26.4. Avg Aga: 17.

All Blacks Overall

When Carter is MISSING: W: 32, D: 0, L: 6. %: 84.2. Avg For: 35.2. Avg Aga: 14.9.

When Carter is PLAYING: W: 83, D: 1, L: 11. %: 87.4. Avg For: 35.7. Avg Aga: 14.5

Courtesy of Fox Sports Stats

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Video: Ashes fourth Test report card

Australia's cricketers have much soul-searching to do before the fifth Ashes Test. Source: AP

ANOTHER epic batting collapse saw Australia grab defeat from the jaws of victory in the fourth Ashes Test in Durham.

News Corp Australia chief cricket writer Malcolm Conn rates the performances of Australia's players, and tells us which players should be looking over their shoulder.

Chris Rogers
8 out of 10

Outstanding Test with his maiden first innings hundred then a century opening stand with Dave Warner.

David Warner
6 out of 10

An uncertain first innings was overtaken by an excellent 71 to top score in the second innings.

Usman Khawaja
3 out of 10

Another disappointing Test. Needs to make more of his opportunities, they are running out.

Michael Clarke
3 out of 10

Played a bad shot in the first innings and received the ball of the match in the second.

Steve Smith
2 out of 10

After teasing at Old Trafford another Test of soft dismissals coupled with a dropped outfield catch.

Shane Watson
6 out of 10

Excellent batting and bowling in the first innings unfortunately hampered by injury later in the match.

Brad Haddin
3 out of 10

Another poor Test with the bat. Needs to find more consistency if he is to hold his place long term.

Peter Siddle
4 out of 10

Always wholehearted, he is clearly feeling the strain of four successive Tests, claiming just one wicket.

Ryan Harris
8 out of 10

The standout player for Australia in this series, he continues to deny his medical history. Has never bowled better.

Nathan Lyon
7 out of 10

Excellent performance with seven wickets for the match bowling first in generally unhelpful conditions.

Jackson Bird
3 out of 10

Was reasonable in patches and unlucky at times but lacked penetration on a wicket expected to suit him.

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Downing signs for West Ham

Liverpool winger Stewart Downing has signed a four-year deal with West Ham. Source: AFP

WEST HAM United on Tuesday announced the signing of England international winger Stewart Downing from Premier League rivals Liverpool for an undisclosed fee.

Downing, 29, has signed a four-year contract with the east London club and follows striker Andy Carroll in moving from Liverpool to Upton Park.

"I'm very excited. It's a great opportunity for me being here, it's a great club and I'm really excited to get going,'' Downing told the club's official website.

"I'm ready and I'm fit for the first game against Cardiff City (on Saturday). I've played a decent few games for Liverpool in pre-season, so there will be no problems on that front.''

The left-footed wide player becomes West Ham manager Sam Allardyce's fifth new signing of the close season, after Carroll, Romania captain Razvan Rat, Spanish goalkeeper Adrian and midfielder Danny Whitehead.

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Lions left lost after Voss sacking

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The Brisbane Lions players are in apparent shock after the sacking of Michael Voss (far left). Source: Darren England / News Limited

BRISBANE players were left shocked and stunned by the axing of senior coach Michael Voss on Tuesday.

Lions players were told of Voss' demise at a special meeting at 3.30pm, and a sombre mood prevailed over the playing and coaching group as they entered the club's Gala Auction function at the Brisbane Convention Centre.

It was a noticeably awkward atmosphere at the usually laid-back, fun-filled function. It was more like a wake than a fundraiser.

Brisbane great Simon Black said he felt for his former teammate, good friend and fellow Brownlow Medallist.

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Black and Voss shared in three premierships as teammates and made up two of the club's famed "Fab Four'' in Brisbane's glory years. 

"I didn't see it coming at all,'' Black told The Courier-Mail.

"It was a complete shock.

"Vossy has been an enormous part of my life.

"I think the world of him.''

Voss was cleaning out his desk at the Gabba as guests were ushered into the function.

He said the overwhelming emotion was disappointment.

"I'm disappointed that in the end, I didn't get to finish what I started,'' he told The Courier-Mail. "We were improving which makes it all the more disappointing.'' 

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Earlier on Tuesday Voss said, "I don't know how I feel''.

"Tomorrow I will wake up and don't go to work and that's all I know,'' he said.

"I have loved more than anything else, and the club is dear to me, but I have gone every day and there has been something to improve in our players. That is what I will miss the most.'' 

It is understood that chairman Angus Johnson, CEO Malcolm Holmes and football manager Dean Warren delivered the news to Voss early in the afternoon after the board held an unscheduled meeting in the morning. 

Voss is yet to address the Lions playing group but hopes to speak to them on Wednesday.

He felt he was meeting the criteria of blooding young players and closing the gap on the top eight after winning 10 games in 2012. 

Brisbane defender Daniel Merrett said the news was still sinking in.

"Everyone is absolutely shocked,'' he said. "We didn't see it coming at all,'' he said.

He paid tribute to Voss for helping shape his career. Merrett played his 150th senior match last weekend after making his debut in 2005 when Voss was still Lions captain. Merrett was part of the club's leadership group when Voss took over as senior coach. 

"I can't say enough about what a great mentor he was to the players,'' Merrett said. "I've known Vossy for a long time.

"I've played with him. I've been coached by him. He's had a massive impact on my career.''

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Selectors must 'pick and stick': Waugh

Phillip Hughes has been hard done by, according to former Test captain Steve Waugh. Source: AFP

CRICKET legend Steve Waugh says selectors need to pick and stick with the nation's top six Test batsmen if they're to have any chance of putting Australian cricket back on the winning path.

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He says the axe hanging over the heads of Australia's fringe batsmen is preventing them from relaxing and playing their natural game.

"Look at Phil Hughes, he's been up and down the order and has been dropped three or four times in 20 Tests. That doesn't give you much confidence," Waugh said.

"Usman Khawaja is another example.

"Selectors have got to say: 'We're going to go through some tough times, but these are the six or seven batsmen we believe in and we're going to back them even if they don't succeed straight away'."

Waugh's comments to ABC's 7.30 program came the same day Australia's batting order crumbled once again to hand England the fourth Test in Durham and a 3-0 series victory.

Chasing 299 to win the Test, Australia was in the box seat to win at 0-109 before collapsing to be all out 224.

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The 168-Test former captain says he has experienced first-hand the benefits of selectors showing faith, as he didn't win a Test match until his 13th Test and failed to score a ton until his 26th Test.

However, he then flourished into one of Australia's most successful batsmen and captains, accumulating 10,927 Test runs with an average of 51.06 and leading Australia in 15 of their record breaking 16 consecutive Test victories.

"It took a long while for me to get it right as well," Waugh said.

"But I had the benefit of getting it wrong.

"Right now, the selectors need to pick and stick and show confidence in players."

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Elliott scores maiden Test ton

Sarah Elliott brought up her hundred early on day two of the women's Ashes Test. Source: AAP

SARAH Elliot knew this was her moment.

Having not played for Australia since 2011, the 31-year-old had to make her mark in her one opportunity for the Southern Stars this Ashes campaign.

So, after an interrupted sleep thanks to her touring partner - nine-month-old son Sam  - the gritty right-hander dug in and delivered on day one of the sole Test match against England.

She fought her way to 95 not out at the close of play on day one, leading Australia to 3-243 after it won the toss and elected to bat on a flat track at Wormsley.

And tonight she topped the hard work with her maiden international century – her ton coming off 269 balls in just under six hours- before she was caught at cover point for 104.

Vice captain Alex Blackwell resumed on 29 tonight and arrived at the crease with an aggressive mindset, she shot to 54 off 169 balls before she was out LBW off the bowling  of spinner Laura Marsh (2-74).
Australia declared at 6-331, 20 minutes before lunch, with Ellyse Perry (not out 31 off 24 balls ) - showing class well above her No. 8 batting position- alongside Erin Osborne (10 no).

Perry opened the bowling attack and appeared to get good movement early. England was 0-16 at lunch, after four overs, with Heather Knight (10) and Arran Brindle (0) at the crease.

With Elliott out in the tenth over of the day, captain Jodie Fields joined Blackwell.

Fields came out firing, but was out bowled by Katherine Brunt (1-48) for six.

Elliott was patient and determined, buoyed by spying husband Rob with Sam wandering around the picturesque ground at stages - her lunch break was spent expressing milk.

She admitted to feeling a sense of relief after facing 245 balls in just over five hours at the crease on day one.

"There was definitely some, `OK, they've picked me, they've flown me all the way here, so let's hope we can cash in','' she said.

"It's really nice to make the most of the opportunity.''

The innings has given Elliott, not selected for the one-day or Twenty20 teams this tour, a taste of international cricket again.

She is keen to break back into the shorter-form sides for the Australian summer.

"It's definitely exciting,'' said Elliott, who has lived in Darwin for three years but continued playing for Victoria.

"It's hard work; it has been hard work training and those sorts of things to get back to this,'' she said.

"But when you get a little bit of success it gives you that little bit of extra drive to say, `Hang on a minute, I'm enjoying this and I want to do more of it'.''
Victorian opener Meg Lanning was run out on 48 just after lunch on day one.

Werribee's Jess Cameron played an entertaining innings before falling lbw the ball after she reached 50.

English pace bowler Anya Shrubsole (2-57) took the wicket of opener Rachel Haynes (10), bowled  in the 10th over and also snared the wicket of Elliott.

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'Dogs not the same without Kasiano

Trouble ... Sam Kasiano injures his ankle in the Bulldogs loss to the Titans. Source: Grant Trouville / AAP

IN his weekly column, Fox Sports expert and Canberra assistant coach Brett Kimmorley offers his thoughts on round 22 of the 2013 NRL Premiership season.

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Storm v Rabbitohs at AAMI Park

South Sydney fans should walk away from Friday's game knowing they can get into the fight with Melbourne. You put John Sutton and Greg Inglis back in the side, the Rabbitohs not only gain match winning players but most importantly they get confidence. Luke Keary was outstanding and may throw a twist into how the side looks when Sutton returns from injury. Perhaps we will see Sutton in the back row earlier than we thought which is a huge advantage to have come finals if a half goes down injured. Playing against a side like the Storm, you need to make sure you capitalise on your opportunities because when they sniff out a chance to poll points they will take it. Cooper Cronk produced some beautiful passes to catch his old teammate Matt King out on a number of occasions. The Storm have set a statement over the last few weeks that they are still contenders and you should write them off at your own peril. 

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Eels v Tigers at Parramatta Stadium

Jarryd Hayne's return to the Parramatta side was the difference. He is the calming influence that the Eels can play off the back of. The players would have had confidence with Hayne back in the side and their forwards have been performing well. They have a big strong pack but lack a genuine ball player which is why they struggle. Fortunately for the Eels they end a 10 game losing streak while Tigers fans have nothing to be excited about. The club is filled with drama from Benji Marshall leaving to Mick Potter's coaching career under a lot of doubt. Who knows when the dramas will stop at the Tigers but one thing we know is that a loss is the last thing they needed.

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Roosters v Raiders at Allianz Stadium

Trent Robinson wouldn't be overly happy with the way the Roosters played. Canberra applied plenty of pressure after responding well from what was a 60-point thrashing the week before. The Raiders played with plenty of pride but probably gifted the Roosters 18 points with some soft tries and you can't gift points to quality sides. The Roosters were very controlled and patient led by two halves who have a great kicking game. Roger Tuivasa-sheck showed why he will be the Roosters long-term fullback while the Raiders will be pleased by Blake Ferguson's return. Ultimately poor execution and inability to come up with the right plays at the right time hurt the visitors. 

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Sharks v Knights at Remondis Stadium

It was the battle of two in-form halves with Todd Carney and Jarrod Mullen coming head-to-head. It was the sneaky victory Newcastle needed to keep their season alive. The lead changed throughout the game but with the Knights playing for Danny Buderus' record breaking 250th game probably gave them the motivation to get them home in the end. Andrew Fifita was good for the Sharks while the return for Luke Lewis and Paul Gallen playing his second game back from injury would have brought confidence to their side. But there are still a lot of dramas in Cronulla. They wouldn't have liked that loss at this time of the year but for the Knights they stay alive and in the top eight. The emergence of Jarrod Mullen over the last few weeks shows he can steer around the side and kick them to a victory on the back of a big forward pack and some exciting outside backs. 

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Sea Eagles v Warriors at Blue Tongue Stadium

In 2011 the Stewart brothers stared for Manly in the grand final against the Warriors and the same happened again on Sunday. Glenn Stewart has returned to form after an injury troubled him for a large part of the season while his brother Brett Stewart has been terrific over the last five weeks. Manly continue to remind us that we can't write them off. They are a fit and aggressive side. There were a lot of errors in that game but the sea Eagles were never frustrated and while points didn't come early, they were able to run away with it in the end. Being a Warriors fan, player or coach must be a frustrating job. They can be absolutely brilliant or they can switch off and come up with something horrible.

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Broncos v Dragons at Suncorp Stadium

It was a very important game for Brisbane to keep their semi-finals hopes alive. The Broncos were very good while the Dragons had plenty to play for. The Broncos showed they had more class and depth than the opposition to get the win. Justin Hodges received some dreadful news for that he will be sidelined for 10 months with a snapped Achilles but they covered the loss well by moving Matt Gillett into the centres. With Josh Hoffman pushing back to fullback and Ben Hunt leading the attack at half, the Broncos were very classy. Sam Thaiday showed his gamesmanship, trying to milk a penalty and scoring off the next play. The Dragons can hold their heads high. They had their chances led by their young gun Adam Quinlan. The Dragons fans now look forward to next year to an improved roster but what they have unearthed are some match winners in Quinlan and Josh Dugan who were not in their plans at the start of the season. 

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Panthers v Cowboys

Two weeks in a row they have scored more than 30 points. Neil Henry's future was decided before the South Sydney game and with that came a return to form. The Cowboys were a little patch against Penrith but the more Johnathan Thurston was involved, the better the rest of the team played. Thurston capped his night off by becoming the 22nd player in history to break 1300 points.He is the key to the Cowboys playing well. Ray Thompson scored his first try of the season and finished with a hat trick while Kyle Feldt scored his first try in the NRL. The game was a little scrappy at times but it was nice to see Sam McKendry return for Penrith after breaking his neck in round seven. In the end the Panthers were blown away. With 25 minutes to go they had lost interest in the game and waved the white flag. The Cowboys now play three of their next four games in North Queensland. It would be amazing to think they could finish on 28 points and make it into the semi-finals. They certainly have a talented roster and look to have their defensive attitude back. 

Bulldogs v Titans

It was a sloppy performance from the Bulldogs but it was one of the upsets of the season from Gold Coast. The Titans have a habit of doing this, and they go to the games where everyone writes them off and they're undermanned and they just drag you down and get you in a trance and make you fight for everything. The Bulldogs didn't have their foot on the throttle but don't take anything away from the Titans because they were very good. Mead at fullback was superb and the Titans forwards outplayed the Bulldogs forwards. However, without Albert Kelly and Jamal Idris they won't trouble the top sides. The Bulldogs were lucky to come away with the win against St George last week. There have been a lot of injures this round and poor Sam Kasiano has picked up an ankle injury. One thing for sure about the 'Dogs, they're not the same side when there's no Kasiano or Ben Barba for that matter.

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Brilliant Harris gives Aussies hope

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Ryan Harris celebrates after bowling Matt Prior, his second wicket in as many balls. Source:Getty Images

PACEMAN Ryan Harris, whose big heart has so often broken a fragile body, was given wonderful reward for perseverance with career best figures as Australia tried to set up an unlikely fourth Test victory.

Harris took four wickets before lunch on the fourth day at Chester-le-Street to finish with 7-117 from 28 overs. It was the best return for an Australian bowler since Mitchell Johnson took 8-61 against South Africa in Perth in 2008.

Having ripped through the England top order, Harris's fourth day wickets were well deserved after yet another wholehearted display with the new ball. However, some late order slogging by the England tailenders had left Australia in a daunting position.

Resuming at 5-234, England were bowled out for 330. Needing 299 to win on a wicket that was showing signs of variable bounce, Australia was 0-11 at lunch.

Briefly, it had seemed Australia's chase would be less substantial.

When Harris bowled Ian Bell for 113, and did the same to Matt Prior with his next ball, England was 7-271. But nightwatchman Tim Bresnan (46) and tailender Graeme Swann (30 not out) frustrated the Australians with some big hitting.

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Bresnan's valuable cameo was tinged with controversy. He was given not out on 12 while shouldering arms to Jackson Bird, and saved from an Australian referral only on the "umpire's call".

It was a dispiriting moment for the Australians given that, customarily, batsmen not playing a shot are seldom given the benefit of the doubt.

Bresnan and Swann's late runs frustrated the Australians, who had been in sight of victory when they had England 3-49 on the third day - effectively 3-17 given their 32 run first innings lead - only for Bell to take the game away from them with his third century of the series.

When Harris finally removed Bell, the nature of his dismissal might have caused some concern to the Australian batsmen. The ball stayed down on a good length, with Bell only able to edge the ball onto his stumps.

Prior also chopped Harris's next ball onto the stumps. But Broad denied him the hat-trick with a confident front forward defensive shot.

While England's lead was foreboding, there was some good news for the struggling Australian batting line-up with Shane Watson taking his place at first slip after suffering a groin injury on the third day.

If Australia was to have any hope of chasing the England total, Bell had, yet again, provided them with a wonderful example of how to bat under pressure on a difficult wicket.

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Homeless Nonu no concern for ABs

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Nonu improves out of sight when he pulls on the All Blacks jersey. Source:AAP

HE is the superstar All Blacks centre that no franchise wants, but New Zealand coaches warn that Ma'a Nonu is primed for a trademark Bledisloe Cup blockbuster after overcoming injury concerns.

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The out-of-favour Nonu could take out his frustrations on the Wallabies as his contractual saga drags on. Nonu, in a similar situation to Wallabies utility James O'Connor, remains without a Super Rugby franchise for next year after unpopular stints at the Highlanders, Blues and Hurricanes in the past three years.

None of those three teams have shown interest in having Nonu back in 2014, while the Chiefs and Crusaders are also uninterested, which has caused major concern for the ruling body, the NZRU.

Nonu, 31, is viewed as a troublesome identity in Super Rugby dressing rooms yet consistently produces stunning form on the international stage for the All Blacks — and has been a major thorn in the Wallabies' side for years.

The 79-Test veteran centre has not played a professional game since June 29, and has been struggling with an ankle injury sustained in a club match three weeks ago.

There was even talk in New Zealand of Dan Carter being shifted to inside centre to cover an absent Nonu, but after the giant midfielder trained well on Monday his coaches are extremely confident he'll take the field on Saturday for the first Rugby Championship match of 2013.

"The signs are that Ma'a's improving every day and it's looking good," All Blacks assistant coach Ian Foster said.

"I've been delighted with him. His ability to come in here with one focus is outstanding.

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"His major concern is getting over that little niggle and he's doing that very well."

Nonu's added motivation of finding a new club could result in a tough night for Australia's defence, who were woefully exposed by the British & Irish Lions in their previous outing.

Under new coach Ewen McKenzie, the Wallabies will be hoping to make instant improvement, and a major focus will be stopping the impact of Nonu in midfield.

It is typical of Nonu to follow unimpressive Super Rugby form with outstanding performances in the black jersey, and Australia will be weary of such a prospect at ANZ Stadium. In eight games for the Highlanders this year Nonu scored one try and made just two linebreaks.

In three Tests against France in June, he made four linebreaks and had one try assist.

In 18 Tests against the Wallabies, Nonu has scored eight tries and experienced defeat just three times.

Meanwhile, All Blacks fullback Israel Dagg expects a far more expansive attack from the Wallabies than what they showed under previous coach Robbie Deans. With McKenzie using a successful ball-in-hand approach to win the 2011 Super Rugby title with Queensland Reds, Dagg said the new coach would bring in a faster style.

"The Reds like to use the ball, spread it wide, with quality passes," Dagg said. "They like to run it from everywhere. It's going to be a pretty quick game."

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Lanning puts Stars on front foot

Meg Lanning has been named to make her Test debut. Picture: Cricket Australia

AUSTRALIAN opener Meg Lanning's innings on day one of the women's Ashes Test has ended after she was run out on 48.

Lanning was facing the second ball of the second over after lunch and hit a solid shot through cover point.

Lanning and batting partner Sarah Elliott took two runs as Katherine Brunt fielded the ball out near the boundary.

When Lanning turned to take a third, Elliott sent her back, but she failed to make her ground as wicketkeeper Sarah Taylor took off the bails.

It brought Victorian Jess Cameron to the crease with Australia 2-87.

Lanning, in her Test debut was 45 at lunch alongside Sarah Elliott (24) as Australia reached 1-84 from 33 overs at the first break.

The Victorian, who made 104 off 124 balls in a tour match against England A last week, was watchful early before unleashing with nine fours, including a powerful back foot pull shot. 

She survived a dropped chance by England keeper Sarah Taylor when she was on 13 and appeared to edge another which Taylor couldn't reach, but the umpire didn't think Lanning had hit it. She survived an LBW shout in the 30th over, appearing to be a fair way down the track.

Elliott, who made 81 in a six-hour stand to help deliver the 2011 Ashes, was happy to leave to England bowler Jenny Gunn, who came on first change, handing Gunn five maidens.

The 31-year-old was patient, but started to play her shots later in her innings.

Pace bowler Anya Shrubsole snared the wicket of opener Rachel Haynes (10) , clean bowled, in the tenth over.
Shrubsole and fellow English opening blower Katherine Brunt troubled the Aussies early with their pace and movement.

Australia named four Test rookies as they began their quest to retain the Ashes.

Lanning, Erin Osborne, Megan Schutt and 17-year-old speedster Holly Ferling were named alongside six veterans from the team that won the last Ashes Test, in 2011.

Captain Jodie Fields won the toss and elected to bat. Fields was named despite injuring her finger during a tour game last week.

Swing bowler Julie Hunter, who had a slight side strain and missed the tour match, failed to make the XI.

"Julie had a mild side strain. She has responded well to treatment and has been bowling at training. She was considered for selection but the selectors were concerned about her ability to bowl for the full length of the match," Chair of Women's National Selection Panel (WNSP) Julie Savage said.

Australia: Meg Lanning Rachel Haynes Sarah Elliott Jess Cameron Alex Blackwell Jodie Fields Erin Osborne Ellyse Perry Sarah Coyte Megan Schutt Holly Ferling Julie Hunter (12th)

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Video: best ball of Ashes series?

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Ryan Harris celebrates the dismissal of Joe Root, thanks to a peach of a delivery. Source:AFP

HAVING squandered the opportunity to build a more significant first innings lead, the Australian bowlers set about the task of restricting to England to a manageable total in still difficult batting conditions.

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In that quest, there was some early success. Having swung hard with the bat for his 28, Ryan Harris bowled opener Joe Root for 2.

At lunch on day three of the fourth Test, England was 1-24, still eight runs behind. Although, the Australians might feel their advantage should have been greater.

Resuming at 5-222, Australia was dismissed for 270, a first innings lead of just 32. Handy runs, but not as many as they might need to ensure they don't have to chase to big a target against the impressive English seamers and the spin of Graeme Swann.

That meant Australia had failed to capitalise fully on Chris Rogers' hard fought maiden Test century, and the veteran opener's innings savings day two partnership of 126 with Shane Watson.

Swann, who again looms as a major danger to the Australian batsmen on yet brown wicket, had helped limit the damage for England. The off-spinner dismissed both the overnight batsmen Rogers and Brad Haddin, before James Anderson and Stuart Broad knocked over the tail with the new ball.

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Haddin added only one run to his total before being trapped LBW by Swann for 13, a decision he unsuccessfully referred. More in hope, given Australia still had two reviews remaining, than with conviction.

Rogers followed soon after for 110, the victim of a smart catch by wicketkeeper Matt Prior - and the DRS system, which, after an England review, showed a small Hot Spot on his glove.

Mercifully, given the emphasis on technology in this series, Peter Siddle's dismissal was more straightforward. A regulation catch to first slip Alastair Cook from Anderson.

Nathan Lyon also fell to Anderson, trapped in front for four and Ryan Harris, who had provided most of Australia's advantage with some lusty hitting, was trapped LBW by Stuart Broad.

Not by New Zealand umpire Tony Hill, whose failure to raise his finger continued a poor run of form, but by DRS.

Despite the decision being so obvious that Harris jogged off the ground before it was confirmed to prepare to open the bowling.

Broad finished with 5-71, fair reward for the brilliant spell of swing bowling that had helped reduce Australia to 4-76 on day two. Under overcast skies, Broad had been a time virtually unplayable as he collected the top order wickets of David Warner, Usman Khawaja and Michael Clarke.

Rogers, 35, became the second oldest Australian batsman to record his debut century, behind Arthur Richardson who was 37 and 351 days when he scored his first century against England at Leeds in 1926.

That was an emotional moment for player whose sole Test, before this series, was more than five years ago, and who admitted he believed he would not play at the top level again.

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Live: fourth Ashes Test, day three

Joe Root was clean bowled by a sensational Ryan Harris delivery. Source: Getty Images

CAN Australia capitalise on their strong position on day three of the fourth Ashes Test, or will England launch a fightback?

Stick with us throughout the evening as we bring you the best analysis, reaction and colour from the ground and around the world via social media in our live blog.

Join the conversation by leaving a comment in the blog below, or let us know what you think by getting in touch on Twitter, @FoxCricketLive.

If using the comment box in the blog, you can just enter a name where it says 'Display Name', or you can log in using one of your social media accounts. Get involved now!

GET THE ULTIMATE MATCH COMPANION, FEATURING VIDEO OF EVERY WICKET AND BOUNDARY, BALL-BY-BALL COMMENTARY AND HAWKEYE, IN OUR ASHES MATCH CENTRE!

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Buzz's NRL Team of the Year

George Burgess has had a breakout season for the Rabbitohs. Source: Mark Evans / News Limited

IT'S that time of the year again. Winter is on the way out, eight finals positions are up for grabs and the game's individual awards are soon to be determined. I'm getting in early to reveal the team of the year.

Fullback: Greg Inglis
How could you pick a team without the great Billy Slater at fullback? Easy. South Sydney's Greg Inglis has been clearly the dominant No.1 in the game. There have been some other standout performers, none more so than St George Illawarra's Josh Dugan. Anthony Minichiello has had another great year at the Roosters. Brett Stewart is approaching his best form at Manly and Michael Gordon has been outstanding at the Sharks.

Wingers: Jorge Taufua and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
Probably the most difficult choice because so many have emerged this year and played better than the established representative wingers. We've gone for the Sea Eagles' Jorge Taufua as first choice. He has to be there on Fox Sports statistics which show, going into yesterday's game against the Warriors, he has broken the line 25 times this season (the most of any player). He has also scored 16 tries, ran 145m per game and made more metres (2748) this season than any player. The Roosters' Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is on the other wing. What a player! The boys at the Wests Tigers, Tim Simona and David Nofoaluma, are extra special. Penrith's Dave Simmons has held his own every week against the best in the competition.

Centres: Michael Jennings and Jamie Lyon
It's never easy leaving out quality players like Justin Hodges at the Broncos or Josh Morris at the Bulldogs. At the same time, you can't ignore the form of Michael Jennings in the Roosters' backline and Jamie Lyon at Manly.

Five-eighth: John Sutton
Without doubt the toughest job is settling on a five-eighth. James Maloney, Todd Carney, Kieran Foran, John Sutton, Jarrod Mullen, Josh Reynolds and Johnathan Thurston - what an era for number sixes. Certainly the best since Daley, Fittler, Mundine, Matty Johns, Kevvy Walters and co. Maloney had another blinder on Saturday night for the Roosters against the Raiders, Carney has stormed into Dally M contention but we've gone with Sutton. He's big and makes nearly 100m a game and has grown into a wonderful leader. Mullen is unlucky too. He has had a super year this season playing for the Newcastle Knights.

Halfback: Cooper Cronk
It impossible to go past Cooper Cronk but many others have had greats seasons. Daly Cherry-Evans at Manly, Adam Reynolds at the Rabbitohs, Albert Kelly at the Titans and Shaun Johnson at the Warriors have been outstanding. Trent Hodkinson at the Bulldogs deserves an honourable mention. Mitch Pearce too has exploded back from an ordinary State of Origin series, stylishly steering the Roosters towards the minor premiership.

Lock: Sam Burgess
Sam Burgess has staked a claim this year as the world's best forward, from lock, second-row or prop. Paul Gallen is the defending Dally M lock of the year but hasn't played enough football. The Broncos' Corey Parker and St George Illawarra's Trent Merrin have done well.

Second-rowers: Sonny Bill Williams and Anthony Watmough
It's impossible not to choose Sonny Bill Williams. He has the best off-load in the game and has lived up to all the pre-season hype. Anthony Watmough continues to impress for Manly and has done more than Sam Thaiday at the Broncos.

Front-rowers: George Burgess and Andrew Fifita
The one position where there has been a real changing of the guard this season. We've settled for Souths' George Burgess and Cronulla's Andrew Fifita, two explosive ball-runners. Matt Scott and James Tamou were entrenched at the beginning of the year as the game's No.1 props but have been disappointing in a struggling Cowboys pack. Aiden Tolman, James Graham and Sam Kasiano have been in great form for the Bulldogs. At Manly, Brenton Lawrence has been almost the find of the year. Willie Mason has been strong at the Knights and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves magnificent at the Roosters. I'm also a fan of the Storm's Jesse Bromwich.

Hooker: Cameron Smith
Australia's Test captain Cameron Smith has to be the first man chosen after yet another standout season. The biggest improver is Jake Friend at the Roosters, who is getting so close to the Tigers' Robbie Farah as the game's No.2 hooker that it's not funny. When Smith eventually retires, Friend will play for Queensland and Australia. Michael Ennis is again showing great leadership qualities at the Bulldogs and James Segeyaro has done exceptionally well in his first season at the Panthers.

Coach: Trent Robinson
It has to be the Roosters' Trent Robinson. We know he got Sonny Bill Williams, Michael Jennings and James Maloney but it normally takes more time to mould a potential premiership-winning outfit. This Roosters side is playing like it has been together for years. Ricky Stuart and Phil Gould won premierships in their first year as coaches - and Robinson could do the same at the Roosters. 

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