Storm rookie shines in thrilling win

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

YOUNGSTER Kurt Mann produced a moment of magic on debut to help Melbourne Storm sink Manly in another epic battle between the great rivals at AAMI Park on Saturday night.

The undermanned Sea Eagles lead by nine points late in the second half before Melbourne exploded with two tries in the final 10 minutes to clinch a 22-19 victory.

The 21-year-old – who was a late inclusion for Mahe Fonua in the centres – scored the match-winner after pulling down a tough cross field kick from Cooper Cronk.

Melbourne Storms Kurt Mann scores the winning try. Source: News Corp Australia

Manly – missing Glenn Stewart, Jamie Lyon and Kieran Foran – looked like winners after scoring three consecutive tries in the second half.

But, just like at Brookvale Oval in Round 1, Melbourne was able to fight back and snatch a crucial win.

It was a scrappy opening in slippery conditions with Manly failing to capitalise on four early penalties it received.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

It might have had something to do with the five errors it committed in the first 20 minutes.

Both sides had a number of good chances to break the deadlock before Manly went over in the 37th minute through Peta Hiku.

Storm coach Craig Bellamy goes off after a Manly try was awarded by the video ref. Source: News Corp Australia

Referee Shayne Hayne ruled sent it upstairs but ruled no try, believing David Williams – who went up for the high ball with Storm's Young Tonumaipea - knocked on before Hiku pounced on it.

But video referees Ashley Klein and Ben Galea inexplicably overturned the decision, ruling that Williams did not touch the ball.

A visibly angry Craig Bellamy could not believe the decision.

Manly's Steve Matai trys to stop Storm's Kevin Proctor. Source: News Corp Australia

But his side was soon on the board after a deft pass from Ryan Hoffman put Billy Slater over.

A Manly field goal from Jack Littlejohn right on half-time gave the visitors a one-point lead heading into the second half.

The lead was erased early in the second half when Slater burst through a hole to score his second try for the night.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

But Slater was soon on report for a high hit on a falling Williams, who was dazed by the incident and had to leave the field.

Williams did not return to the game.

Cameron Smith tangles with Matt Ballin. Source: News Corp Australia

The penalty gave Manly valuable field position and it took advantage with Brett Stewart crossing to cut Melbourne's lead to a solitary point.

The Sea Eagles were soon in again through winger Jorge Taufua, who was somehow able to put the Steeden down in the corner despite pressure from Sisa Waqa and Cooper Cronk.

Melbourne's defence has been an ongoing issue this season.

It was again exposed when forward Jamie Buhrer broke through off the back of a scrum to make it three tries in a row for the Sea Eagles.

Billy Slater celebrate's his try. Source: News Corp Australia

Manly looked like winners when Cronk decided to take matters into his own hands.

The star halfback was able to score off his own grubber kick to give his side a sniff.

Mann then did the rest – scoring his first NRL try at the best possible time.

Melbourne face another tough test against South Sydney at ANZ Stadium next Friday night.

MELBOURNE 22 (B Slater 2 C Cronk K Mann tries C Smith 3 goals) bt MANLY 19 (J Buhrer P Hiku B Stewart J Taufua tries S Matai goal J Littlejohn field goal) at AAMI Park. Referee: Shayne Hayne, Adam Gee. Crowd: 13,273.

Re-live the match in our blog below:

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

‘F1 threatened by cash crisis’

Cost-cutting ... Claire Williams, pictured with Force India Deputy Team Principal Bob Fernley, says Formula One is facing a serious cash crisis. Picture: Getty Images Source: Clive Mason / Getty Images

FORMULA One faces a serious cash crisis if it does not introduce serious cost-cutting measures, Williams' deputy team-principal Claire Williams has warned.

Williams, speaking at Spanish Grand Prix qualifying, said that some teams could be forced out of the sport if no action is taken.

On Friday, Renault said they could face difficulties in maintaining their level of involvement because of problems caused by late payments made by F1 customer teams.

Williams told autosport.com : "As an independent team, we've always wanted, and will always want, cost control in Formula One, however that comes about, but this conversation has been going on for so long now — and we don't seem to have got anywhere, which is really disappointing.

"At the end of the day, it is just going to affect the long-term sustainability of our sport and we all have a responsibility to protect our sport — but also protect the teams who have been racing for a very long time."

She added: "I think we are at a really critical junction now where if we don't do something about it and take responsibility, then we are going to be causing ourselves some serious damage.

"Williams is working really hard to make sure that we keep pushing and driving the conversation, coming up with proposals that will save costs in F1. But they have to be significant."

She revealed that the paddock was divided on proposals for a costs 'cap' and had accepted that it was unlikely.

Renault added to the concerns about the sport's future when their F1 boss Jean-Michel Jalinier said that their recovery following a disappointing pre-season test could be compromised by late payments.

Some of the funding for the Renault recovery was delivered by the Renault car company, but the rest came from payments from customer teams — whose alleged late payments are undermining the plan.

Jalinier said: "On this part, I must say that we are not at an acceptable situation because some of the teams are just late in payments and, at the time you need to spend resources, to catch up, you cannot afford to have those [late] payments ...".

He declined to identify the teams who had not paid, but it is unlikely that they included Red Bull or Toro Rosso.

He said the situation is critical and must be resolved within weeks.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

SuperCoach: Studs and Duds

Essendon skipper Jobe Watson was a big SuperCoach stud, finishing with 158 points against Brisbane. Source: Chris Hyde / Getty Images

Swans studs: Dan Hannebery (159) starred in the midfield with 40 disposals including four score assists and a goal. Josh Kennedy (153) torched his former club with 36 of his own, while Jarrad McVeigh (131) was pivotal in driving the Swans forward.

Swans duds: Adam Goodes (39) lacked the required match fitness to impact the contest. Substitute Jake Lloyd (34) was solid from limited opportunities.

Hawks studs: Ben McEvoy (105) led the way with 30 hitouts to go with 15 disposals. Taylor Duryea was next best on 99 from Jordan Lewis and Shaun Burgoyne on 94 and 93 respectively.

Hawks duds: Brad Hill (34) had his moments while Cyril Rioli (40) faces a stint on the sidelines after pinging his left hamstring.

Swans midfielder Josh Kennedy in action against the Hawks. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

PORT ADELAIDE v FREMANTLE

Power studs: Robbie Gray (126) was best afield with 30 disposals - 12 contested - and four score assists. One-time super sub Kane Mitchell (114) laid eight tackles, while Chad Wingard's five goals wasn't enough to crack the tonne.

Power duds: Young gun Jarman Impey (42) played a negating role on Hayden Ballantyne thereby limiting his ability to score well. Jay Schulz (40) failed to fire a shot in his milestone game.

Dockers studs: Nat Fyfe (141) starred with 34 disposals including six clearances and two goals. David Mundy (119) registered eight clearances while Aaron Sandilands (118) dominated the stoppages as expected.

Dockers duds: Take your pick... Clancee Pearce, Hayden Ballantyne, Danyle Pearce, Paul Duffield all scored below 50 points. Stephen Hill was subbed out with 56 after a knock to the knee.

Chad Wingard takes a screamer in the win over Fremantle. Picture: Simon Cross Source: News Corp Australia

MELBOURNE v WESTERN BULLDOGS

Demons studs: Dom Tyson silenced his doubters with 27 disposals and two brilliant goals. Mark Jamar (108) held his own in the ruck against All Australian Will Minson. Daniel Cross (102) collected 23 disposals while tagging Jackson Macrae and Matthew Boyd.

Demons duds: Christian Salem (46) need only avoid the substitute's vest to make an impact. Surely he gets a full game next week. Chris Dawes (61) operated at 64 per cent efficiency while Jay Kennedy-Harris (64) chased Bob Murphy for much of the first half.

Bulldogs studs: Tom Liberatore (171) put on a clinic with 27 disposals - 16 contested - and two goals. Libba also laid a game-high 14 tackles. Minson (114) and Stewart Crameri (113) kicked four goals.

Bulldogs duds: Lachie Hunter (44) had a tough night while Shaun Higgins (65) committed four clangers.

BRISBANE LIONS v ESSENDON

Lions studs: Tom Rockliff (133) continues to keep his SuperCoach owners happy, racking up 35 disposals, 11 tackles and eight clerances. Star. Partner in crime Jack Redden (106) gave great support with 25 diposals.

Lions duds: Popular pick Nick Robertson (12) started as the Lions' sub, frustrating many SuperCoach owners. Despite finishing with 17 touches, Andrew Raines (41) scored poorly, along with Jonathan Brown (48).

Bombers studs: After a couple of quiet weeks, skipper Jobe Watson was colossal (158), willing his team to victory with 35 disposals, nine tackles and eight clearances. Paddy Ryder's score (152) received a big boost by kicking the match-winning goal. Dyson Heppell (129), Brendon Goddard (117) and Cale Hooker (109) all cracked the ton.

Bombers duds: Bubble boy Pat Ambrose (43) was quiet after half-time, but will make plenty of cash for his owners. Marty Gleeson (18) only managed eight touches in three quaretrs before being subebd out.

Bomber Dyson Heppell finished with 36 disposals against the Lions. Source: Getty Images

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Bannister’s historic 4-minute mile

Doctor Roger Bannister breaking four-minute mile at Oxford, 06 May 1954. Source: News Limited

SIXTY years later, Roger Bannister is busy reliving the four minutes that still endure as a transcendent moment in sports history.

It was on a wet, blustery spring day — May 6, 1954 — that the lanky English medical student became the first runner to break the fabled four-minute barrier for the mile, a feat many had thought was ­humanly impossible.

Helped by two pacemakers, 25-year-old Bannister, 25, completed four laps around a cinder track in Oxford in 3min 59.4 sec, a milestone that captured the world's fascination andstill resonates.

"It was a target," Bannister, now 85 and suffering Parkinson's disease, said in an interview with The Associated Press at his Oxford home, a short distance from the Iffley Rd track where he made his name.

"University athletes had been trying for years and it just didn't seem to be capable of being broken. There was this magic about four symmetrical laps of one minute each.

"It was just something that caught the public's imagination. I think it still remains something that is of interest and intrigue."

Bannister's record lasted only 46 days, and he considers his victory over Australian rival John Landy a few months later as his greatest running exploit.

Yet, as the 60th anniversary attested, Bannister's 3:59.4 remains part of track and field lore, a symbol of boundary-busting endurance that stands the test of time.

It is only a slice of Bannister's life story. He retired from running at the end of 1954 and pursued a long career in neurology, which he considers more significant than anything he accomplished on the track.

Chris Brasher (44), Roger Bannister (41), Chris Chattaway (42) at Iffey Rd athletics track, Oxford. Source: News Limited

"Medicine without a doubt," Bannister said when asked about his proudest achievement. "I wouldn't claim to have made any great discoveries, but I satisfactorily inched forward in our knowledge of a particular aspect of medicine. I'm far more content with that than I am about any of the running I did."

The man knighted Sir Roger in 1975 is slowing down as the years pass. He's coping with the effects of Parkinson's, a neurological condition that falls into his medical specialty.

"I know quite a bit about it, which is both helpful and unhelpful," Bannister said, sitting in his living room lined with photos and mementos of his running and medical career. "But I'm 85 and something has to happen."

Bannister's right ankle was shattered in a car accident in 1975, and he already has been unable to run since. Now, he walks with crutches inside his home and uses a wheelchair outdoors.

Hundreds of athletes have run the mile in less than 4 minutes since Bannister did it, and the world record has been ­broken 18 times since then. The current mark of 3:43.13 was set by Morocco's Hicham El Guerrouj in 1999.

The next barrier in the sport? Bannister believes the two-hour mark in the marathon will be broken in the next few years. The fastest time stands at 2:03.23, run by Kenya's Wilson Kipsang in Berlin in 2013.

"It involves a 2 per cent improvement," Bannister said. "It has to be run on a day with the right temperature and on a course which isn't too hilly, preferably a course which is a single line with the wind at your back all the way. It'll be done."

Bannister and his wife of 58 years, Moyra, this week marked the May 6 anniversary at Oxford University with family and friends — a lunch at Exeter College, where Bannister enrolled in 1946, and a ceremony at Vincent's Club, an elite 150-year-old sports club.

Missing were Bannister's pacemakers, Chris Brasher and Chris Chataway. Brasher, who founded the London Marathon, died in 2003 at the age of 74. Chataway passed away in January at 82.

"I miss them very much," Bannister said. "We used to meet on the anniversary with our wives and sometimes with children and have a kind of party and reflect."

Bannister has just written his autobiography, titled Twin Tracks. The book — which grew out of letters to his 14 grandchildren — traces his family's origins in Lancashire in northwest England, growing up in London and the story of his athletic, medical and academic life.

"If I don't write my auto­biography, there may be bio­graphies written, and I think I'd rather like to tell it myself," he said.

Bannister went to the 1952 Helsinki Olympics as a favourite in the 1500m — the shorter metric mile distance run in the Olympics — but struggled with the addition of an extra day of heats and finished only fourth.

Roger Bannister, 85, who as a young man was the first person to break the 4-minute barrier in the mile in 1954. Photo: AP/Lefteris Pitarakis Source: AP

Retirement plans were put aside, and Bannister decided to run for two more years and chase the four-minute mark.

Sweden's Gunder Hagg's mile record of 4:01.4 had stood since 1945. Landy and Wes Santee of the United States had both run 4:02 and were competing with Bannister to be the first under four minutes.

"At one point, Landy said, 'It's like a brick wall. I'm not going to attempt it again,"' Bannister said.

"As a medical student, knew there wasn't a brick wall. If you could run it in 4 minutes and 2.2 seconds, then you would find somebody else somewhere who trained a little better, had better conditions on the day, was able to use the pace judgment better, and they could do it. That was the frame of mind in which I approached it."

Bannister chose to make his attempt during a meet between Oxford and the Amateur Athletic Association.

He lined up Chataway and Brasher as pacemen. The weather was cool and windy. Bannister decided to go ahead with the race only after the gusts died down.

After going through the first three laps in 3:01, Bannister knew he had to run the final lap in under 59 seconds.

Here is hown he describes the final, gruelling 300 yards in his book:

"I felt at that moment that it was my chance to do one thing supremely well. I drove on, impelled by a combination of fear and pride. ... Those last few seconds seemed an eternity.

" I leapt at the tape like a man taking his last desperate spring to save himself from a chasm that threatens to engulf him. Then my effort was over and I collapsed almost unconscious, with an arm on either side of me."

When Norris McWhirter read out the winning time, the crowd drowned him out after he announced the first number: "3 ..."

Landy lowered the record to 3:57.9 six weeks later in Finland. The two men then went head-to-head in August in the "Mile of the Century", or "Miracle Mile", at the Empire Games in Vancouver. Bannister passed the Australian on the final bend and won in 3:58.8. Landy clocked 3:59, the first time two runners went under 4 minutes in one race.

Bannister capped his remarkable year by winning the 1500m at the European championships in Berne. He then retired to go full-time into medicine.

"By then," he said. "I could feel that honour was satisfied."

AP

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Roosters run riot over Wests Tigers

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

THERE was a reaction when Roosters coach Trent Robinson first learned his team had not received a bye before any of this season's three Origin matches.

But even if Robinson had agreed to share his feelings after Friday night, the real response would probably not be suitable for a family newspaper.

"I've got my thoughts but today is not the time," Robinson said.

GET ALL THE KEY STATS AND VIDEO IN THE MATCH CENTRE

Michael Jennings grabs the first of his two tries against the Tigers. Source: Getty Images

The Roosters scored 30 points to secure a comfortable victory over Wests Tigers last night, and all of them were shared between the five NSW Origin candidates from Bondi Junction.

Daniel Tupou and Michael Jennings both claimed doubles to advance claims that their left edge double act should be replicated in sky blue.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Their combined efforts bankrolled a match-winning 20-0 lead by the 45 minute mark, before Blues certainties Mitchell Pearce and Boyd Cordner iced the win with late four-pointers. To complete the sweep, five eighth James Maloney marked his courageous return from a shoulder injury with three conversions and try assists.

But while Laurie Daley's selection dilemma might have eased as a result, Robinson's contingency planning skills will be tested over the upcoming ten weeks. With Aiden Guerra and Jake Friend also on the cusp of Queensland selection, the Roosters could miss as many as seven players during the annual grind.

The Tigers gang up to try to stop Sonny Bill Williams. Source: Getty Images

Incredibly, the NRL draw has exposed them to playing a second string side before all three Origin matches - against Canterbury, Newcastle and Cronulla.

"We've planned for it. It's going to be tough," Robinson said. "That's what a squad is there for, rather than a team.

"We've got a total of 33 players in our squad, and some of them haven't played a game yet this year."

Sonny Bill Williams gets a pass away under pressure from the Tigers. Source: News Corp Australia

The positive for the Roosters is a clean bill of health, with Daniel Mortimer, Remi Casty, Kane Evans, Samisoni Langi and Tautai Moga all waiting below at NSW Cup feeder side Newtown for a chance. The fact the premiers have now entered the top four thanks to their third straight win has also eased the pressure on them slightly.

It wasn't a victory to rejoice.

Aaron Woods makes his point to referee Chris James. Source: Getty Images

Fumbles and poor execution kept the injury-ravaged Tigers within four points until the shadows of halftime. But a total of three tries in five minutes either side of the interval finished the contest as the opposition attack never seriously threatened with a spine boasting less 40 matches of NRL experience.

"We were a little stop-start tonight," Robinson said. "It could have been better, but we'll take 30-6."

James Maloney was on target in his return from a shoulder injury. Source: Getty Images

Robinson revealed Maloney needed pain-killing injections in his shoulder before kick-off and at halftime to get through the match.

It's a regimen the No. 6 will be required to endure for the next six weeks until the grade two tear in his AC joint is healed.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Maloney said the bid to retain his Origin jersey had motivated last night's early return, which could have been even better had he not fumbled the ball over the line midway through the second half.

The 27-year-old also admitted his shoulder was "tender" after the game, and that the pain restricted his ability to throw long passes.

Michael Jennings breaks away to score his second try. Source: News Corp Australia

Obviously it's a game I want to be involved in, so the more games I can be involved leading into (Origin), I assume it's going to be better for myself," he said.

Tigers coach Mick Potter said Braith Anasta and Sauaso Sue were expected to return from ankle injuries for next week's clash against Cronulla, while club doctors will monitor the health of veteran winger Pat Richards, who was replaced with concussion shortly before fulltime.

SYDNEY ROOSTERS 30 (M Jennings 2 D Tupou 2 B Cordner M Pearce tries J Maloney 3 goals) bt WESTS TIGERS 6 (C Lawrence try B Austin goal) at Allianz Stadium. Referee: Matt Cecchin, Chris James. Crowd: 16,024.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Barrett sinks boot into Rebels

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

MELBOURNE's flickering finals hopes have been all but snuffed out by the mercurial Hurricanes, tumbling to a 25-15 defeat to Super Rugby's most unpredictable and dangerous outfit.

Stoic defence kept Melbourne in the contest for a half before the 'Canes edged clear, testing the Rebels with flair and aggression.

MATCH CENTRE: Full scores, stats, video highlights

Beauden Barrett's supreme kicking delivered 20 points, while Melbourne did well to restrict free-scoring opposition to Conrad Smith's fine second-half try.

Bryce Hegarty showcased his development with a deserved first-half try, while Tamati Ellsion punished his former club with an excellent late try.

The Rebels' underrated pack more than held its own — again — against vaunted opposition as Melbourne refused to yield.

Rebels halfback Luke Burgess hurdles Hurricanes skipper Conrad Smith. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: News Corp Australia

As willing as Melbourne was, it struggled to contain the Hurricanes' vast armoury of threats as Jason Woodward's usually reliable kicking deserted him.

The fullback landed only two of five goals, detracting from much of his stunning playmaking creativity.

Outgunned, Melbourne also found itself on the wrong side of the penalty count as second-game referee Matt O'Brien repeatedly left Rebels supporters bewildered — particularly in the opening stages of the second half.

At one stage, Melbourne was handed six penalties in succession as O'Brien struggled to exert authority on increasingly confused and frustrated players.

Ironically, All Black Smith was marched with 13 minutes to play after being warned by O'Brien that the visitors were constantly infringing.

Rebels flanker Colby Fainga'a makes a desperate tackle on Hurricanes No. 8 Victor Vito. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: News Corp Australia

Even more incredibly, the penalty tally ended at 12-11 in the Hurricanes' favour as Melbourne was belatedly rewarded for endeavour.

Discipline, however, remains an issue

"It's just penalties that are killing us at the moment," Scott Higginbotham said post-match.

"Our attack was good tonight, we were constantly on their tryline.

"It's frustrating."

Four of Barrett's penalty goals came in the first half as the Hurricanes dominated possession, patiently searching for holes in the Rebel defence.

Tony McGahan's men withstood the onslaught, snaring a deserved try when Bryce Hegarty and Jason Woodward combined with Luke Burgess to briefly claim the lead.

Bryce Hegarty dives over to score for the Rebels. Source: Getty Images

Defence was again Melbourne's signature strength, perfectly evidenced by Woodward's jolting try-saving tackle on Julian Savea.

Scott Fuglistaller epitomised Melbourne's commitment, tackling relentlessly against mountainous odds as fellow flanker Colby Fainga'a unleashed several cutting runs.

Trailing 10-12 at half-time, Melbourne clung grimly to hopes of an upset triumph.

If the first 40 minutes had been about gritty survival, the second half was brutal reality.

Barrett drilled a pair of penalties before Andre Taylor's stinging counter-attack eventually led to Smith swivelling over the tryline.

Melbourne drove forward repeatedly when down 25-10 and was denied a try when Tom English was held up over the chalk.

Ellison powered over minutes later, triggering a last-gasp flurry from the Rebels.

HURRICANES 25 (Conrad Smith try Beauden Barrett con 6 pens) bt MELBOURNE REBELS 15 (Tamati Ellison, Bryce Hegarty tries Jason Woodward con pen) at AAMI Park. Referee: Matt O'Brien. Crowd: 12,072.

Relive all the action from AAMI Park with our match blog below.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Villain Buddy turns hero to sink Hawks

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

LANCE Franklin went from villain to hero, kicking two vital goals as the Swans upstaged reigning premiers Hawthorn to claim a fourth successive victory.

The season-defining 19-point win against Franklin's former club at ANZ Stadium has set the Swans up to push for a top four finish after a slow start to the season.

Franklin was upstaged by another expensive key forward, Kurt Tippett, who kicked four goals for the Swans in his first game of the season.

Franklin celebrates a last-quarter goal. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

For much of the night Franklin's kicking was as bad as his driving during his highly anticipated first outing against a club he helped win two flags.

Just a fortnight after crashing into four parked cars Franklin kicked seven behinds in a row.

Then he kicked two goals in three minutes at the start of the last quarter to put the Swans in front and then given them a 10-point break.

FOR LIVE SUPERCOACH SCORES AND STATS CLICK ON THE SCORE CENTRE ABOVE. IF YOU'RE ON A MOBILE DEVICE CLICK HERE:

Despite Hawthorn's best efforts the Swans were never headed and it was fitting that Dan Hannebery sealed the match with a desperate snap.

Like the Swans, all the early questions about Hannebery's form have now been erased and he was best on ground last night with an astonishing 40 possessions.

INJURY, BUMP ADD SALT TO HAWKS' WOUNDS

Josh Kennedy wasn't far behind with 35 possessions, 22 of them contested.

Hawthorn suffered a huge blow early in the third term when dynamic small forward Cyril Rioli limped off with yet another hamstring strain.

And key forward Jarryd Roughead,who kicked three goals, is likely to be in trouble with the match review panel when a crude bump flattened former team mate Ben McGlynn.

Despite their injury woes Hawthorn hit the front midway through the third term during a run of four successive goals that left the reigning premiers nine points in front.

Hawk Cyril Rioli goes off with a hamstring injury. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

The Hawks were inspired by the Rolls Royce of midfielders Shaun Burgoyne, who gathered 13 clever and damaging possessions during the third term.

Sydney's early wastefulness appeared more and more costly as Hawthorn came at the Swans late in the second quarter.

Midway through the second term the Swans led by 26 points when Franklin kicked his sixth straight behind.

But then the game changed as the Hawks began to play more of the co-ordinated football which won them last year's premiership.

Swan Josh Kennedy starred in the midfield with 35 disposals. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

Rebounding through Grant Birchall at halfback and the contested work of Jordan Lewis, Hawthorn kicked the next three goals leading into half time to trail by just seven points even though the Swans had seven more scoring shots.

The only problem with Sydney's explosive first quarter was a failure to make the most of their utter domination.

The most telling statistic was that Sydney had 22 inside 50s to seven during the opening term and should have been much further in front.

Hawthorn was always going to have trouble containing the Hawks tall forward line without injured full back Brian Lake but the defence was decimated when Luke Hodge was a late withdrawal, joining fellow rebounding half-back Sam Mitchell on the sidelines.

Goodes was subbed out late in the third quarter after a modest 10 possessions. He failed to manage a score.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Lucky Black Cats’ miracle EPL escape

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

IN all the frenzy surrounding the title race, a small miracle closer to the bottom of the English Premier League table may have been overlooked: Sunderland's story of survival.

It was Sunderland manager Gus Poyet who declared barely a month ago, following a 5-1 drubbing by Tottenham, that his team would need divine intervention to remain in the Premier League.

The Black Cats were bottom of the table, with a daunting schedule in front of them, and facing certain relegation to the Championship.

Fast forward to their final game of the season against Swansea and Sunderland have already completed the great escape — if not the greatest escape.

It's the reason Uruguayan Poyet has been dubbed the miracle manager.

Sunderland are unbeaten since that loss to Spurs on April 8 and have picked up 16 points out of a possible 18. But the numbers alone simply do not do justice to the wondrous achievement.

The Black Cats travelled to Manchester on April 17, where they earned a 2-2 draw against this season's likely champions City.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

And they backed that up with an historical 2-1 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. It was Jose Mourinho's first home defeat in 78 games as Blues boss and effectively ended their title challenge.

Two weeks later and Sunderland were back in Manchester, this time in search of their first triumph at Old Trafford since 1968. Seb Larsson struck the only goal of the game and the 1-0 victory over United — Ryan Giggs' first loss as interim manager — was enough to lift Sunderland out of the relegation zone. The result also condemned both Fulham and Cardiff to the drop.

Sunderland fans have stuck by their man Poyet. Source: Getty Images

By the time West Bromwich Albion arrived at the Stadium of Light last week Sunderland needed just one more win to secure their stay in the Premier League for another season. First half goals from Jack Colback and Fabio Borini got them over the line and, in the elation that followed, Poyet described the last month as the greatest achievement of his career.

"I don't know if you will see something similar ever again,'' he said after the game.

"We are the second team in the Premier League to be bottom at Christmas and stay up. With (wins over Manchester) City, Chelsea and United away from home, to be seven points away from safety and to do it with a game to spare is amazing.

"It's been an incredibly difficult season. For moments it looked like we were going down.

"I will start believing in miracles from now on and it's one of the best days of my life today.''

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Former Socceroo Robbie Slater experienced a similar escape in 1997 when his club Southampton narrowly avoided relegation.

He remembers how his manager Graeme Souness motivated the players to fight to remain in the top tier and can only assume Poyet was as inspirational with Sunderland.

"Poyet must have got his players together and said to them, 'Do you want to play Championship football next year or do you want to still be going to Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge and Anfield?', Slater said.

"In 1997 we were last with eight or nine games to go and I will always remember everyone saying Southampton are going down.

"We went on a pretty amazing run where we didn't lose, except for our very last game against Aston Villa, but we were practically safe by then. It was an amazing escape.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

"The only difference is we didn't do what Sunderland have done in respect to the quality of the teams they've played. That week when they went to City and took a point, then went to Chelsea on the Saturday and won, and won again at Old Trafford, is just extraordinary."

Just two years before helping the Saints win the fight to stay up, Slater picked up a Premiership medal with Blackburn. It may have been a completely different achievement, but Slater says the feeling was almost the same.

"Two years before I had won the Premiership with Blackburn and the feeling of elation was just as good," he said.

"With the Premiership battle you were so nervous that you had butterflies in your stomach, but the relegation battle on the last day was like having wasps in your stomach."

There will be no final day "wasps" in the stomach for Sunderland, who made a miracle look ridiculously easy.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Brumbies secrets give White the edge

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

JAKE White has revealed that not only did he walk out on the Brumbies — he took some of their secrets with him back to South Africa too.

White, who quit the Brumbies last year after missing out on the vacant Wallabies job and took over the Sharks in his native South Africa, said he had returned home with plenty of new items in his coaching kitbag.

"It's amazing how many things I took from the Brumbies back to South Africa," White said on Fox Sports' Rugby HQ, ahead of the ladder-leading Sharks' clash against his old club in Canberra on Saturday night.

"The culture, the things that we did in terms of getting up in the morning and starting early, the kitchen — making sure we can eat properly.

"There were a lot of things that I learnt in Australia that were really helpful in my development as a coach. There's no doubt that I was set in my ways in South Africa, growing up as a South African coach there's only one way that we did things.

"To come to Australia to see how things can be done differently, there's obviously added things that Australians do — the way that they prepare for games and the way they do off-season programs et cetera.

"When I went back and shared those with a guy like John (Smit, the Sharks CEO) it was obviously easy for me to sell. I said we need this in place."

Jake White coached the Brumbies for two seasons, before heading back to South Africa. Source: Getty Images

White's return to Canberra this week for a top-of-the-table clash has been much hyped due to the circumstances surrounding his departure from the Australian capital last year.

The World Cup-winning coach with South Africa in 2007 had transformed the Brumbies from Super Rugby strugglers to grand finalists in just two seasons.

But after missing out on the Wallabies post to McKenzie, he pulled the pin on the Brumbies and headed home to South Africa.

White admitted that leaving the Brumbies players halfway through a four-year contract had been extremely difficult.

"That's probably the thing that hurt me the most, I obviously did ask a lot of guys to commit to Australian rugby," he said.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

"But at the same time I've sort of rethought about that. If Ben Mowen had come to me and said 'listen coach I've given you four years of my time and now after two I've worked out I'm not going to play in the World Cup, Ewen (McKenzie) has made it quite clear that I'm not in the mix, would you begrudge me if I now take a deal in France?', I would be really unkind in saying 'no, no, no, no, you've committed for four years at the Brumbies'.

"I think the human part of me would say, 'listen Ben, if the door's closed for you here that's only human nature I've got to wish you well.'"

White said he had "fronted" the Brumbies contingent of the Wallabies squad that toured South Africa during the Rugby Championship in September last year to explain his reasons for leaving.

"When I did explain that to the Jesse Moggs and the players that I bumped into in Cape Town, they understood that," he said.

"They obviously weren't too happy and I appreciate that. That was the toughest thing. But don't forget, the thing I promised them by coming to the Brumbies was a program, great opportunity, a winning culture, a great rugby club — and all those things have continued.

"I still believe that all the promises that were made to those players, they were fulfilled."

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Logic wins the day for our game

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

THIS was a cock-up on the grandest of scales, and you can quote the AFL on that.

At the end of a dramatic week full of legalese and confronting questions about the fabric of the game, football breathed a sigh of relief.

Jack Viney's suspension was overturned, even if the decision by appeals board boss Peter O'Callaghan to "uphold" the appeal momentarily flummoxed the player himself.

JACK VINEY FREE TO PLAY

"Yeah, there were lawyers in there talking lawyer-talk and I had no idea what was going on," a relieved Viney said. "(My lawyer) David Grace said, 'Well done, you won', and I was like, 'Sweet'."

Sweet indeed, and yet for so long on Thursday night it seemed Viney would be bumped from a game about to descend into crisis. If this appeal was knocked out of the park, every player would second-guess every collision, bump, bracing moment and intersection they arrive at, starting with Friday night's Hawthorn-Sydney contest.

AFL appeals board chairman Peter O'Callaghan leaves AFL House after the Jack Viney hearing. Picture: Colleen Petch. Source: News Corp Australia

Yet as prosecutor Jeff Gleeson outlined what a difficult threshold it was to overturn a tribunal decision after just a solitary successful appeal, the futility of the Viney's resistance seemed certain.

Gleeson spoke of the experienced trio of former players on the jury and that "what the regulations say is that they have to cock it up massively for the board to overturn the appeal".

and that Wayne Schimmelbusch, Emmett Dunne and Wayne Henwood did, because it took just 14 minutes to uphold the AFL's case appeal, even if the official reasons won't be presented for days.

So we will attempt to fill in the gaps for the appeals board. The only decision they can reasonably have made is that the trio of former players made a dramatic error of judgment.

That instead of accepting the totally legitimate premise that Viney was involved in a collision but not guilty of a bump, they suffered a collective brain explosion.

Did the Appeals Board get the Jack Viney decision right?

Where are we at now after a turbulent and confusing week full of raw emotions and anger from fans, coaches and players alike? We seem to be back to commonsense, as Melbourne football manager Josh Mahoney said after the appeal.

If you actively bump a player and he is hurt, you face the dramatic consequences. But this is football, a chaotic, wonderful 360-degree game where accidents can and do happen. And thankfully there is still room for accidents of the type that saw Viney doing everything in his power to minimise injury bar leaping out of the way of the contest.

"People just putting themselves in contested situations is not something you want to see go out of the game. We will just go back to normal now," Mahoney said.

Now we need one final piece of resolution: clarity on Friday from the AFL on the bump, especially given Andrew Demetriou's stated position that the bump rule has "perhaps gone too far". If it takes the AFL releasing 30 illegal and 30 legal incidents on its own website to provide that guidance, then so be it.

As Dogs coach and Saturday night opponent Brendan McCartney said on Thursday night, this was a "good result for the game".

Can players brace for contact, or "stop and prop" (as Grace said)?

For those still confused, Melbourne should release the six camera angles shown by Grace on Thursday night before Gleeson attempted to strip his argument to the bone. He showed that rather than bumping, Viney actually stopped in his tracks when it was inevitable Lynch would win the ball.

"At no stage does Viney move forward towards Lynch and (Alex) Georgiou. They cannon into him. He has hardly moved," Grace said.

Let us hope the appeals board ignored the legal framework and burden of proof to overturn an appeal and just relied on gut instinct. That they could see one bad tribunal decision could undermine everything we love about the game, and they had a chance to fix it — because fix it they did.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Wallabies warning: Hands off Izzy

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

WALLABIES coach Ewen McKenzie has responded to threats of a cashed-up NRL poaching back his biggest star by saying: Izzy is going nowhere.

Dual international Israel Folau was immediately targeted for a rugby league return after changes to the NRL salary cap this week gave boss Dave Smith new powers to pay for marquee superstars.

Speculation even emerged a loophole in Folau's contract could see a league club — and Smith's chequebook — swoop for the 2015 season, ahead of next year's Rugby World Cup.

But as it emerged the 25-year-old had delivered a $4 million spike in publicity for Australian Rugby in 2013, McKenzie joined Folau in shooting down the rumours.

"That's not right. I am really confident Israel will be available for the World Cup for us," McKenzie said.

"There is nothing that tells me otherwise. I have just been on the phone to him this morning. He is really enjoying his time in rugby."

Folau told Newscorp this week speculation about unpaid third party money opening up an NRL return in 2015 was not true.

"It's just all talk going around, I've said it before, I'm contracted to the Tahs until the end of next year and I'm having a ball here," Folau said.

"I'm enjoying my time and I'd like to be part of that World Cup campaign if I get picked.

"I'm having fun playing rugby and I'd like to continue that in the long term."

McKenzie said he was not stressed about the changes to the NRL's salary cap, which was interpreted as new power to both stop rugby raids, and to start raids on rugby.

"I read that in the paper today and I have read that before. I don't take it as a threat," McKenzie said.

"The reality is rugby in Australia has always had less money rugby league. Go back 100 years and we have always had less money than rugby league.

"We are offering a different product. I am not going to get beaten up about that."

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

McKenzie re-interated the Australian Rugby Union's position on poaching NRL stars, which is they are only interested in talking to players who approach them. Prior to Folau, the last NRL converts were Cooper Vuna and Jarrod Saffy in 2011.

Despite the huge success of Folau's signing for the Waratahs and Wallabies, ARU boss Bill Pulver told NewsCorp last month the code was now not even in a financial position to match the money in NRL.

"For me, fundamentally we offer a different proposition," McKenzie said.

"We offer a different proposition on the field in terms of the game, and we offer a different proposition off the field.

"It is not going to be sorted out in pay packets, it is going to be sorted out in lifestyle and the opportunities that come out of that and where you play games of rugby.

"The financial part is inevitably part of the discussion. but . every player, him (Folau) included, when he gets to contract time will make those decisions about what's the most important things.

"Players will decisions based on economics but a lot of players make decisions for other reasons too."

NRL player agents are no doubt set to explore options in French rugby to potentially boost their players' value under Smith's new powers.

But a leading rugby agent with extensive experience in Europe said apart from the NRL's top one percent, French rugby would be more interested in a tighthead prop than league talent with no rugby history.

"Show them five minutes of Greg Inglis and of course they'd go "wow" but they pretty much don't even know what the NRL is," the agent said.

"I have never had any clubs or agents say to me: "Find us some rugby league talent."

"The last four or five guys to go to French rugby from here have been props or big locks."

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Roos sew up Patch for two seasons

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

NORTH Melbourne has locked away free agent Leigh Adams for the next two seasons, with the hardworking utility saying he never entertained leaving the club.

Adams' new contract ties him to the Kangaroos until the end of the 2016 season, with the club still working towards a deal with its other free agent, Todd Goldstein.

HAPPY HANSEN SIGNS ON WITH KANGAS

"It's great to get it all out of the way early and just concentrate on the footy," Adams said. "It's good to have the security of another two years.

"I think from the time 'Scotty' (coach Brad Scott) got here, he said if we can create a great culture, blokes won't want to leave and that seems to be working.

"We're all pretty close and good mates down there, and the club looks after us, so no one has really found the need to leave."

Leigh Adams chases down Jack Hombsch and getting a free kick. Picture: Michael Klein. Source: News Corp Australia

The 26-year-old is confident the window of opportunity is opening for North Melbourne, even if the frustration of some inconsistent performances still rankles.

North Melbourne has had some stirring wins this season against Port Adelaide, Sydney and Fremantle, yet struggled in other games such as last week's loss to Gold Coast.

"It's great that we have had some good wins, but it is frustrating that we can play that well and not bring it every week," he said.

"Obviously that's something we are trying to do. The competition is so even that if you are a few per cent off, then any team can tear you up on the day.

"It shows when we are not 100 per cent in intensity, we can be an average team, like the rest. But when we come out and play to our best, we are right up there."

Adams has played all seven games this season for the Kangaroos, but is gathering momentum after an injury-interrupted preseason, due to knee surgery.

"I've had a few issues with my knee over the years and it didn't really respond the way I wanted it to," he said.

"I had a limited preseason, but I was lucky to just get enough work in at the right time to be able to play in Round 1.

"I feel really confident in my body at the moment, and hopefully I will be able to get better and better as the year goes on."

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Dog day afternoon for Reds players

From left are Ben Lucas with Jocko and Milla, Quade Cooper and Chuck, Mike Harris and Chewy, James Hanson and Wilma, Beau Robinson with Bunge and Jono Owen with Louis; and Red (front) the Reds team mascot. Source: Annette Dew / News Corp Australia

THE Reds may be in the doghouse for their results but they have still lent their bark to the RSPCA's $250,000 target to help the state's abandoned pooches.

Teaming six strapping Reds players, their seven dogs and an impish red heeler team mascot for a photo with a homeless hound named Faith was one of the biggest missions of the footy season.

What could possibly go wrong?

Nothing until Jono Owen produced a spoodle fur-ball named Louis who is anything put the big, growling image you'd normally associate with broken-nosed props who push their weight around.

The poor picked-on pooch ended up in the creek behind Ballymore with a conga line of followers led by Chuck and Milla, an American Staffordshire terrier owned by utility back Ben Lucas.

Jono Owen and Louis at Ballymore before all pooch-induced hell broke out. Source: News Corp Australia

Owen was soaked to the shoulders fishing out Louis and the happy chaos of a dog's daily life put all at peace.

"Not all dogs are as fortunate as the much-loved family pet," RSPCA Queensland spokesman Michael Beatty said.

"More than 18,000 dogs are surrendered, abandoned or seized around Queensland every year. Care and finding the lucky ones new homes costs millions."

More than 17,000 people and their dogs are expected to join the fundraising spirit of the Million Paws Walk at 26 locations around Queensland on May 18.

Quade Cooper's mischievous streak is now a seven-month-old American staffy named Chuck.

For flanker Beau Robinson, his farm boy upbringing makes a blue heeler named Bunge a perfect fit. Hooker James Hanson's rottweiler owes her name Wilma to The Flintstones character.

Mike Harris dog-sits his girlfriend's English staffy Chewy and Lucas has his hands full with Milla and Jocko, a tiny Maltese Shih tzu, who always feels left out.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Rebels’ priority is to hold the ball

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

SCOTT Higginbotham says attention to detail and defensive awareness will be vital to Melbourne's hopes of downing the Hurricanes at AAMI Park on Friday night.

Sitting seventh, four places higher than the Rebels, the Hurricanes remain one of Super Rugby's most dangerous teams despite their surprise fade out against NSW last week.

Leading 24-7, the 'Canes are livid after being cut down 39-30 by the Waratahs, while Melbourne is keen to atone for a 22-16 loss to the table-topping Sharks.

One of several Rebels in Wallabies contention, Higginbotham said Melbourne has to improve execution to win.

"We had 26 turnovers (against the Sharks) and let in one try," he said.

"That's fantastic defence and that's also a lot of energy spent getting the ball back.

Rebels prop Max Lahiff lunges for the try line with Scott Higginbotham in support. Source: Getty Images

"Execution of our own plays and holding onto the ball is basically what let us down.

"We had good set piece. The forwards did really well at the weekend.

"Coming up against a pack like the Sharks and having a scrum that can put a bit of heat on their ball and give us clean ball is really, really good to see."

For the fourth time this season, the Rebels lost when they should have won.

Similar displays against seven-time champion Crusaders, reigning champion Chiefs and finals contenders Highlanders have left Melbourne with only flickering hopes of playoff action.

Almost certain to be without leading prop Toby Smith (shoulder) again, the Rebels have lost scrumhalf Nic Stirzaker (ankle).

Ben Meehan is likely to replace Stirzaker off the bench in support of Luke Burgess.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Higginbotham said Melbourne's young list believes it is close to consistently converting opportunity into reward.

"The blokes are realising how close we are and how much the little things count," he said

"The young blokes are taking notice of that and doing the hard work to get better in those areas."

The Hurricanes handed Melbourne one of its most bruising defeats — a 66-24 demolition — in Wellington two years ago.

That defeat avenged Melbourne's 42-25 win at AAMI Park in 2011.

Higginbotham said one of the keys to competing with the 'Canes was keep them on a tight leash.

Rebels scrumhalf Luke Burgess makes a darting run against the Sharks at AAMI Park. Source: News Corp Australia

"They're a great side," Higginbotham said.

"If you watched them on the weekend, they tended to switch off when they got in front.

"It was interesting. You couldn't believe that the 'Tahs came back and won it.

"For us, we just have to hold onto the ball this week towards our own tryline."

Melbourne officials continue to work behind the scenes as they attempt to land a number of potential recruits.

Wallabies centre Matt Toomua on Wednesday extended his contract the ACT Brumbies, foiling Melbourne's hopes.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Reds set to beef up pack for Crusaders

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

BURLY Wallabies lock Rob Simmons will be shifted to flanker as part of the biggest revamp to the Reds pack this season as they search for a way out of their misery.

The Reds will field their heftiest pack against the Crusaders on Sunday afternoon if they forge ahead with the idea of starting 119kg Ed O'Donoghue at lock and 115kg Simmons at blindside flanker.

The Family Round clash is still tracking to draw more than 30,000 fans to Suncorp Stadium, which is a measure of how shrewd Queensland rugby has been with their season ticket strategy to cover dives in the team's form.

Former Australian under-20 captain Curtis Browning can expect an extended run off the bench while another backrow bench spot may be created for livewire 19-year-old Easts openside Michael Gunn.

Liam Gill is tackled by Tom Donnelly. The Reds flanker has been forced to miss the Crusaders match. Source: Getty Images

With Liam Gill (calf) injured, the sudden call-up for Gunn to back up Beau Robinson would insure against the Crusaders having a field day at the breakdown through maestro Richie McCaw.

Crusaders captain Kieran Read has concussion and the IRB's 2013 Player of the Year is one backrow menace the Reds will not have to deal with on Sunday.

Simmons revealed on Wednesday he had been asked to brush up on his No.6 skills this week and had been devouring the finer points on video.

"It's a good personal challenge to work hard at so you don't let the team down if the chance comes," said Simmons, who was a fill-in Test flanker against Italy last year.

"A lot of lock skills transfer but the defensive role off scrums and lineouts is a key area where you have to be up to speed.''

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Reds coach Richard Graham was coy about whether his mind had already made up on Simmons or Browning to start at blindside flanker.

"Curtis has played a good deal in the role this season so that move would be fairly seamless. Simmo has plusses, too. I'll make the final decision on Friday," Graham said.

Graham is thinking outside the square because of the injuries to backrow regulars Gill and Ed Quirk (rib) but the team's parlous standing in 13th should have forced that mindset anyway.

Graham, as the team's defensive co-ordinator, accepted blame for the poor defensive effort on tour in New Zealand where nine tries were leaked in two losses.

"That is probably something I am critical about myself,'' he said.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

"The last two games we focused heavily on our attack but certainly this week we have a big focus on making sure we defend well.''

Simmons said there had been no blame game played between backs, forwards or coaches in the four-match losing streak when inconsistency killed the team.

"We need to move forward and look to the mate beside you, pick each other up and improve in every little area,'' Simmons said.

"There have been parts of games where we have been better than previous years. The parts that have been worse have much worse and for too long, which is the big frustration."

■ WALLABIES utility back Matt Toomua will remain with the ACT Brumbies until the end of 2017 after signing a three-year contract extension on Wednesday.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Time for Wallabies to step up: Moore

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

A LITTLE less conversation, a little more action.

Respected hooker Stephen Moore says the Wallabies have been guilty of over-promising in recent years and need to focus more on process — not predictions — to consistently win Test matches.

Moore joined other Wallabies aspirants in launching Australia's new Asics jersey on Wednesday and showed why he's a top candidate for the vacant captain's job against France next month with a blunt appraisal of the Test season ahead.

Asked if the Wallabies were poised for a stronger year in 2014 after the bumpy start to the Ewen McKenzie era last year, Moore said the time for talking it up was over.

"The Spring tour was a really good sign in terms of playing well a few weeks in a row," Moore said.

Stephen Moore, Israel Folau and Dave Dennis pose for photos with their new Wallabies jerseys. Source: AFP

"In terms of this year, I am reluctant to stand here and promise anything or talk about what we're going to do. We have probably done a bit of that in the past, and we haven't backed it up. I am more interested in the process of getting in there and building a team, and making sure we go out there and ready to play well every week.

"That comes down to your preparation during the week, your team culture, how you come together as a squad. All that goes into how you front up on the weekend, and the results will follow. I don't want to come out and say we're going to do this or that, it's not where my head would be at."

The Wallabies are caught between a rock and a hard place on the issue of hype.

Competing in a congested sporting market, the Wallabies are obliged to do daily media duties, unlike New Zealand and South Africa, who offer up comparative crumbs to their captured markets.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Those same rivals, particularly All Blacks coach Steve Hansen, then seize on even benign match forecasts motivation as evidence of Australian hubris. Moore said the team would address the "less talk" mantra when they gather in camp later in the month.

"I suppose we will speak about that when we come together as a squad. Those types of things will be talked about," Moore said.

"You don't want to talk too much about results, it's more a process-driven exercise and getting the front-end of your preparation right so you can almost have a bit of certainty about your performance, and that's something we need to work towards."

Moore wasn't buying into predictions the French will be ripe for the picking next month by bringing a weakened squad to Australia.

Phillipe Saint-Andre announced his 31-man squad on Wednesday night, with flyhalf Frederic Michalak being preferred to Francois Trinh-Duc as back-up for first-choice No.10 Remi Tales.

James Slipper, Christian Lealiifano, Michael Hooper and Stephen Moore model the new team jersey. Source: Supplied

"I am sure there are enough players in France to bring a really strong squad out," Moore said.

"Saint-Andre has already come out and said they have to win and it's really important, so to hear him say that. It shows you they take it pretty seriously and how important this tour is for their World Cup campaign I suppose. It's their last tour before the World Cup, so they are putting a lot of importance on the tour.

"The depth of rugby talent in France is massive, and it just depends on how they front up on the day. They can beat anyone. They've showed that, so we have to be prepared for a really tough team to come out here."

Saturday 7 June, 8pm

Wallabies v France, Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Saturday 14 June, 8pm

Wallabies v France, Etihad Stadium, Melbourne

Saturday 21 June, 3pm

Wallabies v France, Allianz Stadium, Sydney

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Robbo: The game is the fool

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

IT'S best not to overreact to tribunal decisions.

But Tuesday night's decision by the AFL Tribunal to suspend Jack Viney for two weeks has to be one of the most stunning and staggering and, if you could be so blunt, the most wrongly assessed incident in recent memory.

You can't totally blame the tribunal, either.

The bump rules forced their finding. The tribunal had to find if it was a bump or a collision, and after they decided it was a bump, the penalty was coming.

Still, given the tribunal members were Wayne Schimmelbusch, Wayne Henwood and Emmett Dunne, you would think their versions of a bump were nowhere near what Viney's was last night.

It's a strange, strange world, football.

North Melbourne's Lindsay Thomas last year gives Ben Reid concussion after jumping to bump him and escapes penalty.

Viney guilty, handed two-match ban

Twitter meltdown as Viney banned

Adelaide's Shaun McKernan raises and elbow and gets two weeks. Brisbane's Merrett gets two weeks for a forearm to the head.

And what about Darren Glass on Chad Wingard?

And then Viney, who argued strongly that be braced himself for contact, gets two weeks.

Two weeks for a young man with more courage than sense, who chased a loose ball into 200kg of oncoming traffic, and who pulled out at the very end and braced for contact.

It's mind-numbing, quite unbelievable.

Now suddenly new chief executive Gillon McLachlan has another important agenda on his ever growing plate.

Last night's decision has made Viney look like a sniping and cowardly fool, that he went after an opponent who couldn't look after himself.

When instead, it's the game which is the fool.

In the eyes of the AFL Tribunal, Viney bumped Lynch.

It wasn't a collision, or a split-second decision to pivot and turn his body to brace for contact, as Viney argued. No, it was a bump.

On the surface, it was a staggering decision, watching it either in normal time or slow-motion, as what happened about 50 times at last night's hearing.

AFL great Dermott Brereton said on Monday it would be a landmark decision to suspend Viney.

Last night it was said Brereton would protest the decision by refusing to attend this year's Hall of Fame dinner.

It is a dramatic response, and perhaps such a decision requires such emotion.

Maybe, then, the AFL might listen to the people.

Clearly it was a significant decision because it was suggested last night Viney had the capabilities to avoid the oncoming combination of Tom Lynch and Lynch's opponent Alex Georgiou.

It was suggested that he had time to get out of the way. Fair dinkum. Pirouette was the word.

Yep, players are being urged to get out of the way because they might hurt someone.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Rebels in the results business: Neville

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

IN-FORM Melbourne forward Cadeyrn Neville says it is no longer acceptable for the Rebels to be merely competitive — winning is now an imperative.

Melbourne sits 11th overall with three wins from nine matches after suffering four narrow, bonus-point defeats.

While Rebels' supporters ponder what might have been, Neville says the players understand clearly how much they have improved.

"We've known that for most of the season really, after the good trial form and then beating the Brumbies as well and coming quite close to both the teams in New Zealand," he said.

"They were disappointing losses (Highlanders and Chiefs) as well.

"We really need to push on and start getting the results now."

Cadeyrn Neville is wrapped up with the ball by Willem Alberts in the Rebels-Sharks match. Source: Getty Images

Melbourne faces the mercurial Wellington Hurricanes at AAMI Park on Friday night after last week falling to a 22-16 loss to the table-topping Sharks.

As with the close defeats to the Crusaders, Highlanders and Chiefs, Melbourne hurt its chances with shoddy execution.

The review of the exasperating Sharks' near miss centred on a familiar theme.

"Costly errors, especially after first and second phase off good set-piece — which is quite valuable against teams like the Sharks — probably let us down," Neville said.

"Not massive in the scheme of at the time but if you look over the game to what it came down to it cost us quite a lot in the end, I would say."

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The Hurricanes blew a 24-7 lead in a 39-30 fade out against NSW and will venture to The Stockade determined to atone.

Neville said the Rebels were preparing for a multifaceted onslaught.

"They (Hurricanes) certainly can bring a lot of surprises," he said.

"They're a team that we have to be aware. They have a lot of flair in attack and a lot of threats in defence from them as well.

"They're dangerous at both ends of the field."

Restored to the starting 15 after injury in the pre-season and uncertain form, Neville has blossomed in the past two matches.

Neville pokes his head above a rolling maul as the Rebels look to test the Sharks pack. Source: Getty Images

The Wallaby tourist is hoping for more of the same against the 'Canes.

"I was very lucky to get another chance and I've just been trying to make the most of that," he said.

"Unfortunately coming into the trials, I had the hamstring injury and 'Pyley' (Hugh Pyle) and 'Jonesey' (Luke Jones) both had good form as well so it was really hard to start getting time from them.

"And I probably didn't make the best of the small opportunities I was getting.

"To get the chance to play whole games — which is where I play my best — is quite fortunate."

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Wallabies in old-school strip show

James Slipper, Christian Lealiifano, Michael Hooper and Stephen Moore model the Wallabies jersey. Source: Supplied

EWEN McKenzie's Test team will go back to the future when they run out against France next month in re-designed Wallabies jerseys.

The latest design of the Wallabies strip will be unveiled in Sydney on Wednesday, courtesy of new clothing partner Asics.

Several nods to tradition have been incorporated in the new jersey, with a white collar and a deeper shade of gold both returning.

The Wallabies jersey had a brighter yellow colouring in recent seasons but the new Asics strip has removed the need for sunglasses, and lifted the southern cross constellation on the torso up from a muted yellow to green.

The remainder of the jersey, apart from green elements on the sleeves and under the arms, has stayed the same.

The return of the white collar is aimed to resurrect a longstanding feature of the Wallabies jersey, dating back to 1908.

It fell away from jerseys in the 1980s and 1990s, and returned in 1997 on the infamous "volcano vomit" edition.

The Wallabies won the 1999 World Cup and played in the 2003 World Cup final with a white collar, and it featured on all versions until being dropped in 2010.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Voss slams Viney ban as ‘over the top’

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

BRISBANE Lions legend Michael Voss last night implored Melbourne to appeal Jack Viney's two-week suspension, labelling the ruling "tragic" for the game.

Voss said contact was unavoidable and he would not have done anything different to Viney during his 289-game career.

Asked what he would tell Viney if he was his coach, the triple-premiership great said: "Ross Lyon said the bump is dead, so maybe it is.

VINEY GUILTY, HANDED TWO-MATCH BAN

TWITTER MELTDOWN AS VINEY BANNED

"He has not left the ground, he's gone low and he got the ball, so the technique is actually correct."

Voss, looking at the incident for the first time, said players would be left confused by the decision.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

"Suspension is there if someone goes literally outside the rules to do something wrong. That wasn't that," he said.

Adelaide's Tom Lynch is set to miss six weeks after suffering a broken jaw from the collision, when he bounced off Viney and into Demons defender Alex Georgiou.

Voss jokingly said: "Does that mean he gets four weeks? Georgiou was concussed too.

"Unless there's a rule that says you can't bump, what are the players supposed to do in that situation?"

The Brownlow Medallist, who is coaching The Recruit – a reality show which will air on Fox8 later this year and land a talent on an AFL list – said the ruling meant any contact was now at the mercy of the match review panel.

Jack Viney arrives at the tribunal before he was found guilty and suspended for two weeks. Source: News Corp Australia

"He wasn't looking for malice, he held his ground and turned his shoulder. That (suspension) to me is over the top.

"What it says is any contact can be reportable. It basically means if you make contact and it's deemed to be in any place you can be reported for it.

"To me that's a good contest and it's play on."

Viney is set to miss matches against the Western Bulldogs and Richmond, while close mate and emerging Port Adelaide star Ollie Wines tweeted Viney would not have been thrown off the Echuca primary school team over for that bump.

"I hope they challenge it and I hope they get off," Voss said.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Reds look set to lose Wallaby spots

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

THE Queensland Reds are now wooden-spoon contenders and their 30 per cent winning rate is set to cost the team several Wallabies jerseys.

With their finals hopes extinct, the Reds need a shock win against the in-form Crusaders at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday to reclaim their Australian jerseys.

Their chances of victory received a major blow on Monday when prop James Slipper was suspended for three weeks for a lifting tackle.

Slipper is one of few Reds in-line to earn back his Wallabies jersey this year.

Potential Wallabies-captain James Horwill on Monday made the blunt assessment that if the Reds do not reverse their poor form, history shows players will be on the couch when the Test series against France kicks off next month.

Quade Cooper of the Reds is crunched by George Moala in the Reds' heavy loss to the Blues. Source: Getty Images

Nine Reds players saw regular Test action in the Wallabies November tour of the Northern hemisphere - Horwill, Quade Cooper, Will Genia, James Slipper, Rob Simmons, Saia Faingaa, Liam Gill, Chris Feauai-Sautia and Mike Harris.

Those numbers could be reduced to four for the France series, with Horwill, Cooper, Genia and Simmons the only players likely to be picked.

The Reds have won three of their ten games this season. They are 13th on the table with the Stormers and Cheetahs only one point behind them.

Horwill's form has been patchy this year and Waratahs giant No.6 Will Skelton is heaping pressure on his position and if the Reds' veteran does not start the game the captaincy will go to Brumbies hooker Stephen Moore.

"The team going well in Super Rugby predominantly has the most Wallabies. We understand that," Horwill said on Monday.

Reds centre Ben Tapuai is one of the few to perform consistently for Queensland this season. Source: Getty Images

"I'm worrying about getting the Reds winning. That's my sole focus.

"We are heaping pressure on ourselves by back to back negatives. You may have a knock on or a mistake … and then on top of that we might give away a stupid penalty and that piggy backs teams into your end of the field.

"The teams that are playing with possession in the opposition half are going well.

"We can all be guilty of trying too hard. That can be a detriment to some things.

"Guys like Will and Quade are very competitive and want to win all the time. Individually they want to do well but they want the team to do well.

"Sometimes it can be a case of doing too much as an individual and not allowing the team to help you.

"The people who are going to help us are the guys in the meeting room and the 30 odd players. No one else is going to help us."

Tickets for the Wallabies first Test against France, at Suncorp Stadium, go on sale Tuesday morning.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Crows lament a dog of a day

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

JOSH Jenkins insists the Crows must bottle the hurt and humiliation of Saturday's Melbourne debacle to save their season and prevent Adelaide Oval becoming a mecca for interstate rivals.

Adelaide coach Brenton Sanderson labelled the Crows' first half against Melbourne "as bad as they have played in my two and a half years here".

MORE: JENKINS ADDS TWO YEARS TO HIS CROWS DEAL

Crows fans agreed, streaming out of the club's new city abode well before Paul Roos' scrappers put Sanderson's men to the sword.

Having left a West Lakes garrison hated by visiting sides since 1991, the Crows have watched their priceless home aura and advantage vanish in a 1-3 win-loss record at Adelaide Oval.

"It is not the way you want to open a new stadium," said the 33-game forward, who signed a two-year contract extension on Monday.

"There was a lot of talk about making it a fortress. We haven't performed well there.

"I think the Giants game was an exception where we played well for the most part.

"We have lost three games now, it is not ideal and the last thing we want is for clubs to fly in and think they can take the points off us at home easily.

Crows forward Josh Jenkins with his Siberian husky, AJ. He has extended his contract by two years. Picture: Sarah Reed.

"You need home ground advantage. The way we have started the season hasn't been great at Adelaide Oval."

Port Adelaide has turned Adelaide Oval into a "Portress" this season - powered by raucous fans and ladder leading exploits.

By contrast you could hear a pin drop and the pitter patter of fans deserting the "Crow-val" on Saturday as Adelaide dealt with a 36-point deficit that ended in a three-point loss.

Adelaide's playing group is still coming to terms with failure against second-bottom Melbourne and Sanderson's "horror" post match review that took issue with "catastrophic kicking efficiency".

Four points must now be made up against superior opposition.

"I guess we won't know how important that loss may become until the end of the year," said Jenkins, with the 11th-ranked Crows humbled by Port, Sydney and Melbourne at home in 2014.

"The guys are still flat at the moment."

However, Jenkins, 25, says the club can and must rebound inside 10 days against marauding Collingwood at home or risk a 3-5 start to the season that becomes irretrievable.

"The bye will allow you to stew on it a little bit more but the reality is you have to get on with it," said Jenkins, Adelaide's leading goal-kicker this campaign with 13 from five games.

"Otherwise one poor loss will turn into two or three.

"It is massive for a variety of reasons. At 3-4 you want to square the ledger."

There will be no place to hide on Thursday week with the Crows under pressure to excel at home under the spotlight that accompanies any clash with glamour club Collingwood.

Winning two of seven first quarters has sabotaged Adelaide this season and must be addressed notes Jenkins.

"It will be a prime time game with the biggest club in the league coming to town. We will be on display," said Jenkins.

"We will be really keen to put forward a good performance."

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Douglas set to join Irish club Leinster

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

KANE Douglas is expected to finalise his deal to move to Irish club Leinster by the end of the week.

The Wallaby and Waratahs lock is still negotiating with the ARU, however it's understood he is leaning heavily towards moving abroad in October.

While Irish media reported that Douglas had already signed a two-year deal with Leinster, he has not put pen to paper.

However, it's understood Douglas will accept Leinster's offer, which would be a major blow for the Wallabies' World Cup plans.

Kane Douglas receives a helping hand from Waratah teammate Jacques Potgieter at NSW training. Source: Getty Images

With Australia's captain and leading lineout taker Ben Mowen off to France at the end of the year and Melbourne lock Hugh Pyle — who has been involved in the Wallabies squad — also moving to France, lineout talent has become a major concern leading into the 2015 tournament.

Douglas has been the form Wallaby second-rower in Super Rugby this season and, at just 24, should have been a long-term international.

With a serious lack of depth in the key second-row position, Douglas's expected departure would force Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie to gamble on untried youngsters this year in the hope they would be ready for the World Cup.

Douglas's NSW teammate Will Skelton would be near the front of the queue after impressing throughout this season, while Melbourne's Luke Jones and Western Force's Adam Coleman are potential bolters.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The ARU's limited funds are making it increasingly tough for them to match lucrative offers from overseas clubs, while local players are becoming far more interested in exploring foreign lifestyles than their predecessors.

Douglas's teammate Israel Folau said the popular lock would make the right decision for himself.

"He's obviously off-contract, I'm sure the Tahs and the Wallabies would love to have him around next year with the World Cup coming," Folau said.

"He's got a decision to make and I'm sure he'll make the right one in terms of what is best for him and what his long-term goals are.

Israel Folau has denied reports he plans to leave despite being tied to rugby until the end of 2015. Source: Getty Images

"Everyone is different in the way their career pans out."

However, Folau hosed down rumours that he would walk out on his ARU contract before it expired at the end of 2015 to return to the NRL.

"It's just all talk going around, I've said it before, I'm contracted to the Tahs until the end of next year and I'm having a ball here," Folau said.

"I'm enjoying my time and I'd like to be part of that World Cup campaign if I get picked.

"I'm having fun playing rugby and I'd like to continue that in the long term."

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

Waratahs’ new weapon gets up to speed

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

AFTER having his first run with the Waratahs on Monday, 125kg former Wests Tigers league giant Taqele Naiyaravaro declared that he is not at Moore Park to merely make up the training numbers.

Naiyaravaro's arrival has created a sensation in Super Rugby and he finally rubbed shoulders with Israel Folau and co after agreeing to a deal that will see him at NSW until the end of 2015.

The massive 22-year-old winger showed glimpses of the speed that saw him beat Tigers speedster Chris Lawrence over a 30-metre sprint, as the Waratahs held a light session of touch rugby with the bye this weekend.

"I hope I can play this season, I didn't come here just to train with them for the rest of the year," Naiyaravaro told the Daily Telegraph.

Taqele Naiyaravaro shows glimpses of his impressive speed at training to go with his massive bulk. Source: News Corp Australia

"I'm looking forward to playing, and when I get the opportunity I will do my best.

"What I'm hoping to achieve is to give my best to the team every time I play, give it my best shot.

"I've just been smiling ever since I got here, it's an exciting atmosphere.

"The boys have opened their arms to me."

Folau, himself a successful convert from league, marvelled at the stature of his new teammate.

"I haven't seen him play but just looking at him running around here, he's certainly got a lot of size about him," Folau said.

"For a big man he can really move.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

"He's got a background in playing the game which really helps, I think he'll fit in really well with the boys.

"You don't often see guys of his stature in today's game, not ones like this. I think he's 125kg, so he's certainly a lot bigger than most of the forwards."

Naiyaravaro, 191cm, towered over all except 203cm lock Will Skelton during the training run.

He will now challenge Rob Horne, Matt Carrarro, Cam Crawford, Peter Betham and Alofa Alofa for a spot on the NSW wing for the remainder of the 2014 season.

His sheer physical presence would make it a nightmare scenario for opposition defences who already have to contend with Folau running in the wider channels.

Taqele Naiyaravaro's form at training drew words of praise from fellow league convert Israel Folau. Source: News Corp Australia

"I grew up with a rugby union background back in Fiji, league actually got me out of Fiji to start my professional career," Naiyaravaro said.

"But I always wanted to switch back to union. The opportunity came up so I thought I'd grab it now.

"When I was a little kid I used to watch Super 12. I loved the Waratahs, especially when Lote Tuqiri was playing for them.

"When the chance came to play for them I took it straight away.

"I've talked to Izzy a few times in the changing rooms, I've asked his advice about things, I've learned a lot."

Naiyaravaro said his faith in God had been a key to his life, while he is inspired to succeed to provide for wife Ethel and 11-month-old daughter Ella.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More

A-League grand final player ratings

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

WHO were the studs and duds of the A-League grand final? We rate the performances of every player involved in Brisbane Roar's win.

BRISBANE ROAR

Michael Theo (8) – The A-League's most successful ever player with five titles didn't have too much to do but stood up when it counted, denying Labinot Haliti in extra time with a crucial save.

Shane Stefanutto (7) – The veteran left-back was assured in defence and, as always, got forward to support Thomas Broich.

Matt Smith (8) – A skipper's performance from the English-born centre-back. Didn't give Wanderers much all afternoon and performed a brilliant last-ditch tackle to deny Youssouf Hersi in extra time.

REPORT: ROAR SEALS TITLE IN EXTRA-TIME THRILLER

REVIEW: THE MOMENT THAT TURNED THE FINAL

BERISHA LEAVES PARTING GIFT FOR ROAR

AS IT HAPPENED: ROAR CLAIMS GRAND FINAL

GALLERY: THE GRAND FINAL IN PICTURES

CRASH: ROCKED TO THE CORE BY SOUND OF SILENCE

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Jade North (8) – Was rock solid next to Smith in the heart of the Roar's defence and used his pace to nullify the threat of Brendan Santalab and Hersi.

Ivan Franjic (7) – The Socceroo showed his versatility by moving from right-back to the wing in the second half. Was tireless and spent the 120 minutes running the line with energy and enthusiasm.

Liam Miller (5) — The Irishman was battling injury after a long season and made way as the Roar chased the game. Sweet redemption for him after giving away the decisive penalty against Brisbane for Perth Glory in 2012.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Luke Brattan (7) – Was in the wars and came out second best against the Wanderers' midfield two. Nonetheless he worked hard to break up attacks and finished his breakout year with a decent performance.

Matt McKay (7) – Not his best game but buzzed all around the field for 90 minutes to win his second A-League title with the Roar in his first year back.

Thomas Broich (9) (MOTM) – We're fast running out of superlatives for Thomas Broich, who, after winning the Joe Marston medal, has now claimed every possible accolade in Aussie football. Everything good the Roar produced came through the imperious German, who must surely be close to the competition's best ever player.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Dimitri Petratos (5) – Looked to be suffering the effects of an ankle injury sustained in the semi-final and was largely ineffectual down the right, leading to Mike Mulvey taking him off for match winner Henrique on 69 minutes.

Berisha (8) – A typical performance from the enigmatic striker in his Roar swansong. Scored late on to send the match into extra time, was involved in fireworks with Iacopa La Rocca and had to fight back tears after the final whistle.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Subs

Henrique (8) – Roar's own grand final good luck charm came off the bench and won a header against the much taller La Rocca in the build-up to his 108th minute winner.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

James Donachie (6) – Came off the bench to play right-back, allowing Franjic to get further forward. He didn't put a foot wrong and crossed the ball for Henrique's winner.

Steven Lustica (6) – Replaced Miller and helped keep the ball moving as Roar enjoyed the lion's share of possession in the later stages.

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS

Ante Covic (6) – His only blight was failing to come out and collect Broich's cross for Berisha's goal.

Jerome Polenz (6) – Had a long afternoon down the right against rampant compatriot Broich.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Matthew Spiranovic (8) – The Socceroos defender headed the game's opener and pulled off a brilliant last-ditch block to deny Berisha in a fine performance for the losing team.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Nikolai Topor-Stanley (7) – His injury in the 66th minute cost the Wanderers dearly, as Tony Popovic was forced to reshuffle his formation, and the Wanderers never looked as solid at the back.

Adam D'Apuzzo (7) – The left-back enjoyed a sensational start to his 150th A-League game but petered out in the second half as the Roar took the game by the scruff of the neck.

Iacapo La Rocca (9) (MOTM) – Lived up to his name (the rock) and was game's best player in first half before being moved to the unfamiliar position of centre-back, where he was culpable for Henrique's winner. Was a deserving joint winner of the Joe Marston medal.

Mateo Poljak (7) – Controlled the first half alongside La Rocca but, like many of his teammates, had a quieter second period.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Shinji Ono (7) – Lasted 81 minutes in his A-League swansong. Supplied the game's first goal to Spiranovic from a corner and had several classy touches without really dominating the game.

Brendan Santalab (6) – Was his usual pesky self in the first period, but toed the disciplinary line after receiving a yellow card, forcing Tony Popovic to take him off for Tomi Juric.

Youssouf Hersi (6) – Not his best performance in a Wanderers jersey but was always a willing runner down the right-hand side.

Mark Bridge (6) – Recovered miraculously from injury to line up in the grand final but never really got a sniff due to Roar's watertight defence.

Subs

Tomi Juric (5) – Came off the bench as a hold-up man for the Wanderers and very nearly got on the scoresheet but the ball just evaded him in the box.

Aaron Mooy (6) – Not a memorable performance from the departing midfielder, who struggled to match the intensity of La Rocca in the Wanderers' midfield two.

Labinot Haliti (5) — Had the Wanderers best chance of the match but shot straight at Michael Theo in extra time in an opportunity he'd dearly love to have again.

20.47 | 0 komentar | Read More