Horwill fumes after ‘gouge’ call

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IRATE Reds skipper James Horwill has fumed that the gouging send-off for Ed O'Donoghue was a farce and that Super Rugby is being ruined by a slow-down bug.

Horwill knew he was risking a $5000 fine or more with Saturday night's stinging post-match criticism but shot from the hip anyway at the pivotal call in the 30-27 loss.

Replacement lock O'Donoghue clearly gave Rebels skipper Scott Higginbotham, a former Wests clubmate, a heavy facial as they grappled on the ground.

It was stupid but it will be argued at his judicial hearing that it did not cross the line to raking or gouging of the eyes.

Reds lock Ed O'Donoghue was red-carded after this incident with Rebels captain Scott Higginbotham. Source: FoxSports

Horwill's angst was with the first movement of a Reds attacking lineout already starting in the 79th minute before the Television Match Official intervened and ultimately forced a red card decision from referee Steve Walsh.

He shifted play 50m downfield to a deciding Rebels penalty goal.

"I've played 150 professional games of rugby and I've never ever ever seen that happen before," Horwill said.

"This spectacle of Super Rugby is being ruined. There's too much going back and slowing of the game. It's getting beyond a joke.

"Super Rugby has always been about expansive rugby but it's going out of the game. The Rebels defended well but there were no repercussions, no yellow cards, for slowing tactics when we were in the attacking zone."

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Higginbotham looked to have nudged a head into O'Donoghue's head. It appeared to be the trigger but Horwill had no on-field joy trying to get Walsh to go back to that incident with the TMO.

"There was a pretty clear clash of heads, intentional or not," Horwill said.

"From my experience of eye gouging, there's a mark. There was no mark on Higgers.

"Higgers thought he was in trouble (for an infringement). He was surprised (at the gouging call). Come on.

"At every breakdown, there are hands, arms, elbows, knees. That's the reality of a physical game. You can't pick one moment out and not go back for every single one in every game."

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The emotion of a sixth-straight loss all fed into Horwill's despair and the feeling that referee Walsh failed to issue yellow cards on the Rebels were slowing the Reds attack close to the tryline.

Reds coach Richard Graham thought it "ridiculous" that play should be put on rewind when the lineout had already started.

Rebels coach Tony McGahan celebrated a hugely satisfying win as a "very important night for the club and the direction of this team."

He thought Walsh was justified with his red card call.

"Thankfully the fourth official came over the top, reviewed it and made a decision," McGahan said.

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Rebels flanker Scott Fuglistaller added: "Anything around the head you can't touch. It's sacrosanct."

Rebels matchwinner Luke Burgess was helped off with a twisted knee in the second half but McGahan said he did not expect it to be major damage.

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Dockers do it for milestone man, Pav

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AFTER carrying them for a fair chunk of his 300 games, Matthew Pavlich's teammates last night gave their inspirational skipper the best possible thank you - the chance to win the only medal he really wants.

Fremantle's top-four and premiership hopes remain alive after the Dockers survived yet another riveting contest against great rival Geelong at Patersons Stadium.

The 32-point victory, 13.18 (96) to 9.10 (64), sends the Dockers to their bye at 5-4 and with the toughest part of their draw in the rear view mirror.

Laced with the usual heady mix of brilliance and controversy these combatants so often serve up, a win against Geelong is always well-earned and this was no exception as the Cats suffered just the second loss of their season.

Hayden Ballantyne celebrates a goal with Stephen Hill (left) and Nat Fyfe. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: News Corp Australia

Fremantle's midfield was supreme and Pavlich and Hayden Ballantyne starred in attack with three goals each.

Geelong skipper Joel Selwood had 35 touches and nine clearances, but lacked support as Fremantle's all-star midfield triumvirate of David Mundy, Nat Fyfe and Michael Barlow held sway in the clinches.

The Dockers smashed the Cats in the clearance (45-29) and contested ball (162-120) counts, with ruckman Aaron Sandilands dominant and Stephen Hill slicing and dicing the visitors on the spread.

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The match-up between Geelong gun Steve Johnson and Fremantle tagger Ryan Crowley was worth the price of admission in itself, and a series of incidents involving the pair remain huge talking points.

Held to just six disposals in the first half, an increasingly frustrated Johnson reacted.

His headbutt on Crowley in the second term will attract the attention of the Match Review Panel, while a comical incident in the interchange area in the third term was another major controversy.

Matthew Pavlich is carried off the field by Aaron Sandilands and Zac Clarke. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: News Corp Australia

The emergency umpire appeared to pay a free kick against Crowley for contact with Selwood around Geelong's interchange area, despite the Docker being dragged through the Cats' interchange gate by the guernsey by a cheeky Johnson.

Pavlich kicked all three of his goals in the first half to set the tone, leading the way in a frenzied opening as the Dockers ran the Cats off their feet in a five-goals-to-none stanza.

Dominant at the stoppages, Fremantle gained the early ascendancy to get the jump on the shell-shocked visitors.

The milestone man kicked the game's opening goal within a minute in a dream start, nailing a drop punt from an acute angle deep in the pocket.

Pavlich was involved in the next two goals as well as the Dockers had three majors within six minutes.

Joel Selwood attempts to gather under pressure from Nathan Fyfe and Aaron Sandilands. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: News Corp Australia

He had his second entering time-on of the opening term, bringing up his 600th career major and becoming just the seventh player in VFL/AFL history to achieve the 300-game/600-goal double.

The Cats hit back early in the second quarter with goals to spearhead Tom Hawkins, who finished with three, and Travis Varcoe as Fremantle missed a string of chances in front of goal at the other end.

Carrying a fracture in his cheekbone and playing without a helmet, Ballantyne whipped the crowd into a frenzy with his running goal mid-way through the quarter.

Pavlich added his third from a set shot to continue his big night but the home team's 30-point lead at half-time could have been far greater, with Freo spraying 2.8 in the second term.

The teams added three goals apiece in the third stanza, with the electric Ballantyne getting his second and then third goals as the Dockers kept Geelong at bay.

Jed Bews was solid in his AFL debut for Geelong. Source: Getty Images

Defender Harry Taylor was sent forward as the Cats looked for answers but a relentless Fremantle remained in control.

The visitors rallied against the odds in the last quarter, remaining an outside chance of stealing the match when Steven Motlop kicked his first at the 19-minute mark to close the gap to 19 points.

If there were nerves in the crowd of 38,565 they were quickly settled by youngster Tom Sheridan, whose set shot goal two minutes later restored a comfortable buffer on a night Fremantle paid a fitting tribute to its greatest servant.

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Cooper hurt as Reds ‘robbed’

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QUADE Cooper is certain to miss the Wallabies' three-Test series against France next month after his collarbone injury squeezed further torture into the failed season of the Queensland Reds.

The Reds agony compounded into a sixth-straight loss in a late 30-27 tumble to the Melbourne Rebels when reserve lock Ed O'Donoghue was sent off for allegedly raking the eyes of Scott Higginbotham at Suncorp Stadium.

MATCH CENTRE: Live scores, stats, video highlights

Reds skipper James Horwill was a picture of anguish on full-time and cursed the refereeing decision of Steve Walsh to banish O'Donoghue which handed Rebels goalkicker Jason Woodward a winning shot at penalty goal from in front with a minute to play.

"We were gutsy but in the end we were again robbed by a stupid refereeing decision," Horwill said with emotion still high in an on-field interview with Fox Sports.

The Reds were setting up for a lineout 25m out from the Rebels tryline inside the final two minutes when Walsh's tough judge alerted him to the O'Donoghue-Higginbotham tussle on the turf.

"Are you saying hands in his eyes?" Walsh asked. When the answer was "yes" he whistled O'Donoghue and marched the Reds 50m downfield to their doom.

Horwill pleaded for Walsh to examine an alleged headbutt as the trigger to the O'Donoghue but got no reward as the Rebels celebrated their first ever win over a Reds team now on their worst losing streak since 2008.

Ed O'Donoughe was red carded for 'hands in the eyes' of Rebels skipper Scott Higginbotham. Source: FoxSports

Cooper had played every minute of the Reds' 11 games this season until disaster struck just eight minutes into last night's clash.

Australia's first-choice flyhalf to end 2013 was trying to ignite the Reds with a hop-stepping run down the left touchline when he was tackled. When he was jammed awkwardly into the turf in the tumble of bodies that followed his distress was obvious.

An AC joint injury to his left shoulder shapes as a costly month on the sidelines.

It would rule him out of the opening two Tests against France on June 7 and 14 and mostly likely mean he sits out the June 21 finale in Sydney as well.

The Cooper drama was the last thing needed by Test coach Ewen McKenzie, who was in the stands making final assessments for his 32-man Wallabies squad to be named on Thursday.

With Cooper now sidelined, ACT Brumbies No. 10 Matt Toomua would seem certain to step up in the playmaking role against the French.

Quade Cooper leaves the field after injuring his collarbone at Suncorp Stadium. Picture: Peter Wallis Source: News Corp Australia

It also potentially creates a starting position for Kurtley Beale at inside centre although McKenzie may even consider flipping those roles so effective was Toomua at inside centre on last year's Wallabies tour.

The first drama to the night erupted after just 40 seconds when Rebels skipper Higginbotham was sin-binned for a late, high contact when he jumped into Reds fullback Mike Harris after he'd unleashed a clearing kick.

The Reds ruthlessly crossed within two minutes. Two James Hanson rumbles in tight were as important as three sharp Cooper passes, one of which found Harris, who stepped over.

Higginbotham was warming up to return when the injured Cooper slowly walked off.

The Rebels' intensity in the tackle knocked back Reds runners frequently but the cohesion to their attack was harder to find. When they did they uncorked a 75m ripper that was equal parts Rebels sharpness and appalling Reds defence.

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Fullback Jason Woodward popped the final ball to tryscorer Tom Kingston but five or six defenders either missed tackles or had no back-up to shut down an off-load.

When the Reds were down 17-10 late in the first half they had their passive line speed in defence to curse again because Rebels halfback Luke Burgess skated 20m in a diagonal run to the tryline through Hanson, Genia, Anthony Faingaa, Harris and Dom Shipperley.

It was all heart that kept the Reds alive by pegging back parlous 17-10, 24-17 and 27-24 deficits to lock up the scores each time but the side's defensive structure has deserted them.

A sixth-straight defeat is the Reds' worst sequence since 2008 and leaves them stranded in the basement of the Australian conference.

Relive all the Reds v Rebels action in our match blog below.

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SuperCoach Studs and Duds

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WHO starred and who stunk it up in Round 9?

Check out the top scorers and those that burned their SuperCoaches this week.

ADELAIDE CROWS 76 defeat COLLINGWOOD 55

Crows Studs: Patrick Dangerfield said he expected a tag but it didn't matter as he burned off every opponent to finish with 152 points. Ruckman Sam Jacobs is one of the most reliable big men in the comp and finished with 125. Scott Thompson (123), Rory Sloane (112) and Richard Douglas (110) won the midfield battle.

Crows Duds: Popular rookie Matt Crouch copped the green vest and burnt many a coach with just 10 points. Matthew Wright was subbed out with 79 points to his name.

Magpies Studs: Captain Scott Pendlebury lead the way with 128 points. Boom rookie Tom Langdon (117) continued his fine form. Dane Beams (104) and Harry Lumumba (101) were the only other Magpies to crack the ton.

Magpies Duds: Jamie Elliott had been one of the highest scoring forwards this season but managed just 50 on Thursday night. Travis Cloke's 55 is actually half decent by his 2014 standards.

Patrick Dangerfield can't escape a Luke Ball tackle. Picture: Simon Cross Source: News Corp Australia

SYDNEY SWANS 114 defeat ESSENDON 64

Swans Studs: Josh Kennedy lead the way for the Swans with 151. Craig Bird popped up with a surprise 127. Lance Franklin (126) seems to be enjoying his partnership with Kurt Tippett while Kieran Jack (123) and Luke Parker (113) continue to produce.

Swans Duds: Sam Reid (39) and Adam Goodes (40) are certainly out in the cold in the Swans millionaire's forward line. Popular defender Jeremy Laidler was underwhelming with just 54. Brandon Jack was the sub and finished with a zero.

Bombers Studs: Brendon Goddard continues to be a class above for Essendon and lead the way with 127. Captain Jobe Watson wasn't far behind with 120. Patrick Ryder (111) and David Zaharakis (101) were the only other Bombers to crack the ton.

Bombers Duds: Kurt Aylett played the entire game but was still the lowest scorer with just 23 points. Out-of-form forward Jake Carlisle started as the sub and finished with 27. Jackson Merrett burnt his coaches with a shocking 29.

Josh Kennedy single-handedly dismantled Essendon. Source: Getty Images

MELBOURNE 91 defeat RICHMOND 74

Demons Studs: Jack Watts stepped up on the big stage and kicked three goals to net 127 points. Cameron Pedersen was the second highest scoring player with 123. Usual suspects Dom Tyson (122) and Nathan Jones (114) rewarded their owners with big games.

Demons Duds: After several weeks without the vest, Jay Kennedy-Harris was stuck in green for most of the match and could only muster 25 when introduced. Christen Salem got an entire game but could only earn 31 points.

Tigers Studs: Dustin Martin was everywhere for Richmond but to no avail and top scored with 118. Daniel Jackson tried his hardest and scored 115. Captain Trent Cotchin (112), Alex Rance (107) and Shane Edwards (100) also hit the century.

Tigers Duds: Shaun Hampson had a dirty day and was subbed out with 31 points. Nick Vlastuin was quiet and scored 58, while Jack Riewoldt (53) and Ben Griffiths (54) paid for their inaccuracy in front of goal.

Cameron Pedersen was vital in Melbourne's win over Richmond. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

NORTH MELBOURNE 125 defeat BRISBANE LIONS 38

Kangaroos Studs: Is there any stopping Boomer Harvey? The veteran inspired the Roos victory and scored a massive 179. Sam Gibson was Harvey's right-hand man for much of the night and earned 149. Nick Dal Santo (140) and Lindsay Thomas (126) were important as eight Kangaroos cracked the ton.

Kangaroos Duds: Ryan Bastinac was surprising made the sub on Saturday and finished with just 12 points. Defender Shaun Atley (63), Scott Thompson (77) and Scott McMahon (58) couldn't cash in on the big win.

Lions Studs: Jack Redden and Mitch Golby fought all day for the Lions and top scored with 104 each. Jed Adcock was next best on 87 on a dirty day for the club.

Lions Duds: The ball wasn't in the forward line very often and Jonathan Brown suffered. The champion finished with just 10 points. Gastro had claimed Joel Patfull and Tom Rockliff before the game and Dayne Zorko bravely played but was well below his best with 12 points.

Jonathan Brown couldn't get near the ball against North Melbourne. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

FREMANTLE 96 defeat GEELONG 64

Dockers Studs: Stephen Hill provided plenty of run and carry to net 130 points. Aaron Sandilands dominated the ruck contests and finished with 126. Midfielders David Mundy (114), Tendai Mzungu (114), Michael Barlow (112) and Nat Fyfe (102) were in everything.

Dockers Duds: Zac Dawson isn't in the team to get big possession numbers but still played a whole game for just 35 points. Matt de Boer (36) and Alex Silvangi (43) shared the sub's vest. Chris Mayne continues to struggle with just 45.

Cats Studs: Joel Selwood scored a match-high 140 from 35 touches. Mitch Duncan was the only other Cats to crack the ton. Cameron Guthrie (99), George Horlin-Smith (99) and James Kelly (91) fell just short.

Cats Duds: Steve Johnson copped a Ryan Crowley tag and was limited to just 53 points. Harry Taylor was tried up forward but had little impact and scored 44. Tom Hawkins kicked three goals but did little else for 57 points.

Joel Selwood battles with Matt de Boer for the ball in Perth. Source: Getty Images

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Carlisle saga takes green turn

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

THE saga that is Jake Carlisle's 2014 season took another intriguing turn last night.

After eight performances that have, for the most part, raised the ire of supporters, Essendon coach Mark Thompson raised eyebrows by naming the swingman as the Bombers' substitute.

Carlisle. Substitute. Against a smallish Sydney back line containing Ted Richards, Heath Grundy (both 192cm) and Jeremy Laidler (189cm)

BUDDY RETURNS TO TORMENT BOMBERS

The story played out interestingly on Triple M.

Before the game Bombers assistant coach Simon Goodwin pointed to Carlisle's versatility as a reason for why he was wearing the green vest.

With Tom Bellchambers returning to the side and playing forward, Carlisle could then come on — forward or back — as the situation merited.

LITTLE TAKES AIM AT ASADA

Asked about his counterpart's selection decision, Swans coach John Longmire said: "We probably didn't expect that".

Come half time, Franklin had the better of Michael Hurley, kicking four goals.

By the same point, and with the Bombers trailing by 42 points, Bellchambers had two touches and Joe Daniher just the five possessions and a mark.

Garry Lyon in commentary: "It's a staggering set of circumstances that Jake Carlisle is still the sub in this game.

Carlisle at Essendon training during the week. Source: News Corp Australia

"I don't know what sort of message it sends. I can't work it out for the life of me."

Carlisle finally got his moment in the 26th minute of the third term — but by then the horse had bolted.

With so much conjecture about whether he was best served playing forward or back, the only interesting point that remained in the game was to see what end of the ground Carlisle would jog to.

The answer? Forward, as Daniher had been the player to make way.

He took an uncontested grab and laid off two handballs prior to three quarter time, before snapping the opening goal of the final term when he picked up a ground ball and burst though a pack about 30m out.

Even after his night with a difference, Carlisle could afford a wry smile and then he continued on for the rest of the night with an intensity that would be expected of a substitute injected late in the game.

After pushing up the ground and then working back hard he was rewarded with a second major from the pocket in the dying minutes of the match.

The question now is this.

Was this a turnaround in form? Or the strongest suggestion yet that he is best used in bursts when playing forward?

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Ump concussed in nasty head clash

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

UMPIRE Troy Pannell was stretchered from the field after a sickening head clash with Sydney's Nick Malceski in the third quarter of Friday night's game at Etihad Stadium.

Play was halted for more than five minutes as Essendon medical staff — as the home club — tended to Pannell, an umpire with 128 games experience.

A stop in play close to the Bombers' half forward line led to the collision.

Pannell was stationary as Malceski, looking the other way, ambled in his direction.

Pannell is stretchered off the field. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

The pair clashed with Malceski's head hitting the back of Pannell's, which sent the umpire sprawling to the turf.

He was knocked out momentarily — and later vomited on the field — but quickly regained consciousness and was communicating with doctors as they loaded him on to the stretcher in a brace position as a safety measure.

"He's got memory loss — he thought he was the only out on the ground for about a minute," Essendon club doctor Bruce Reid said.

"He's got no neck injury, just a knock to the back of the head, and his memory and everything's coming back now."

Essendon's medical staff attended to Pannell quickly. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: News Corp Australia

The umpire later spoke to his wife in the rooms, but may still have gone to hospital last night as a precaution.

In a sour note, a section of Essendon fans booed Pannell as he was stretchered off the field.

The incident evoked memories of goal umpire Courtney Lai, who injured his knee in a collision with Bulldog Liam Picken in April last year.

Lai was stretchered off and ultimately missed the rest of the season.

For incidents such as these, players are generally charged with making negligent contact with an umpire by the Match Review Panel.

The charge, for a first offence, draws a $900 sanction with an early guilty plea.

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Aussie spoon looms large in Brisbane

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Leader James Horwill is banking on the Reds grimly fighting to patch up their prestige on Saturday night or they risk flunking as Australia's worst Super Rugby side.

Missing the finals happens. To finish dead last in the five-horse race that is the Australian Conference would be pure embarrassment.

That's what is on the line at Suncorp Stadium when the Melbourne Rebels will be salivating at the prospect of skewering the wounded Reds for the first time.

The fledgling Melbourne club have upset the NSW Waratahs and ACT Brumbies and beaten the Western Force several times yet a 6-0 ledger of losses to the Reds galls them.

"The fact we play another Australian team makes it an easy game to get up for," Horwill said of the team's hunger to turn around five losses.

"There's extra meaning and all the boys know we are the only team in Australian that has never lost to them.

"Crunch time you say. I approach every game that way."

The 13th-placed Reds and Rebels both sit on a lowly 17 points but Scott Higginbotham's men from the south have a game in hand.

Reserve prop Jono Owen has signed a one-year deal with French club Grenoble for next season so the reshaping of the Reds has begun.

The Wallaby squad hopes of Jake Schatz, Anthony Faingaa, Mike Harris and Ben Tapuai have retreated with the Reds form dive and excellent showings by rival contenders.

They are still proud players who need to play to their full ability.

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Faingaa swinging into first receiver so Quade Cooper could operate wider with his pass in the slick JJ Taulagi try last weekend was a shrewd change-up that may be revisited on Saturday night.

Outside centre Tapuai was a totem pole at times in the shabby defence out wide against the Crusaders and must sharpen all those around him into a straight, advancing line.

Rebels coach Tony McGahan got one up on Reds counterpart Richard Graham, a former Easts premiership teammate, with a gritty 18-13 trial win.

Looking back, going to sleep on a 13-0 lead that night was the first sign of the dozy softness that has regularly killed the Reds this season.

Harassing physicality in the tackle, counter-rucking and the dogged defence that McGahan demands have become Rebels' staples.

"That trial win was a reminder we can win on the road and against good sides so we have revisited it," McGahan said.

"A lot of the Reds' first 40 minutes have been great this season so we are preparing to play them at their best, not worrying about whether they show up or not.

"At least three of the Reds will go down as among the greatest Reds players ever so we are still playing a very good side on paper."

The full-blooded Reds, not the water-down version, have to play like more than paper men.

McGahan saluted Higginbotham as a backrower of rare versatility which only rubbed in the fact he was a Reds game-breaker two years ago.

"Scott can do things others can't," McGahan said.

"We know the X-factor is there but to have 42 very solid involvements in the recent game against the Sharks shows the things he's doing at the breakdown, in attack and with his carries."

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Slater superb as Storm sink Souths

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RABBITOHS coach Michael Maguire was entitled to think he'd learned enough from Craig Bellamy prior to Friday night's meeting.

Yet even after six seasons under Bellamy's watch in Melbourne, Maguire still left ANZ Stadium under no illusions that his old mentor had schooled Souths in the fundamentals of controlling a footy game.

Billy Slater was superb as the Stormpunished South Sydney in the first half. Source: News Corp Australia

Superstar trio Cameron Smith, Billy Slater and Cooper Cronk produced a pre-Origin clinic to manufacture Melbourne's most complete performance of a patchy season thus far, the final 27-14 scoreline a partial reflection of the visitor's dominance.

Down 20-4 at halftime, Souths only threatened for a brief period shortly after the break when they posted consecutive tries on the back of five consecutive penalties. The prospect of a memorable comeback only lasted a few minutes before Slater sliced through some disorganised defence to restore the comfortable advantage for the remaining 24 minutes.

Cooper Cronk was also instrumental in Storm's victory. Source: Getty Images

A George Burgess fumble on the opening set established the disrupted tone for Souths, whose halves Adam Reynolds and John Sutton could not come close to matching Cronk's superb kicking game. Touted as joint candidates for the Blues halves, the Rabbitohs pair will not expect to be re-acquainted with Smith, Slater and Cronk for Origin I after Friday night's display.

"My kicks and Adam's kicks were way off and we didn't build any pressure," Sutton lamented.

The Storm defence gets to grips with George Burgess. Source: Getty Images

"I'm disappointed with my kicks, I didn't get them on the money. I spoke to Adam about it afterwards. We have to get better."

Having engineered four wins from his team's past five matches, Maguire described the result as "a hard one to take".

"The boys are putting the hard work in, but we learned some lessons from tonight's game," he said. "The precision of our play was the biggest thing."

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With the numerous haters joyfully predicting Melbourne's long-awaited demise after such sustained success, the Storm front rained perfection for the first time this year.

Slater's uncharacteristic errors have led to calls for his Friday night opposite - Greg Inglis - to steal his Maroons No. 1 jersey. But in an ideally-timed cameo, Slater out-pointed Inglis with a two-try haul that was deserved reward for his involvement and energy.

Sutton and Reynolds combined to keep South Sydney in the game. Source: Getty Images

Cronk grabbed a try of his own, set up three others and potted the match-sealing field goal with six minutes left. And apart from a blow-up at referee Gerard Sutton, who penalised Storm utility Ryan Hynchcliffe for an innocuous charge down on Reynolds, Smith was once again composure personified.

"We can get a little bit paranoid with player safety," Smith said of the Hynchcliffe penalty.

"I'm all for player safety, but everyone knows when a player goes out to attack the legs (of a kicker). I can't see what else Ryan Hynchcliffe is meant to do there. We are playing rugby league."

Greg Inglis finds the door is closed this time around. Source: News Corp Australia

Thanks to a welcome bye, it's a game Melbourne won't be playing next weekend.

Injury-hit Souths, however, face the task of re-grouping for a tricky match against Cronulla at Remondis Stadium. Origin will rob them of Inglis, and possibly back rowers Chris McQueen and Ben Te'o.

For not the first time this year injuries decimated their bench, with Kyle Turner succumbing to his second concussion in just the 13th minute. Rookie Kirisome Auva'a was replaced with the same affliction early in the second half, but Maguire played down concerns that hooker Api Koroisau had aggravated his shoulder injury.

The Rabbitohs look dejected after being outclassed by Melbourne. Source: Getty Images

On the plus side, the Rabbitohs could welcome back Issac Luke (shoulder) next week.

MELBOURNE 27 (B Slater 2 C Cronk S Waqa tries C Smith 5 goals C Cronk field goal) bt SOUTH SYDNEY 14 (A Johnston 2 A Reynolds tries A Reynolds goal) at ANZ Stadium. Referee: Gerard Sutton, Gavin Reynolds. Crowd: 18,508.

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We played ‘total football’: Sanderson

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CROWS coach Brenton Sanderson hailed Adelaide's response with a 21-point win against Collingwood last night as the best example of his vision of "total football".

And as Adelaide levelled its win-loss count to 4-4 at Adelaide Oval last night, Sanderson wants the standards set against Collingwood to become the template of the "Crowsway" football he promotes.

"It cannot be a one-off," Sanderson said. "I hope we now back that up.

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"That has to be driven by the playing group. As coaches, we can set up strategy and systems but we now ask the players to drive the continual improvement."

A standout of Adelaide's win — just its second at the Oval — was the Crows' tackling that reached an extremely high count of 92 last night.

"It was 55 at half-time and I put that up on the whiteboard in the rooms," Sanderson said. "Sometimes you get 55 for a whole game."

Adelaide key forward Taylor Walker finished with no goal from his first game after a 12-month absence from AFL football with a serious knee injury. But Sanderson was pleased with Walker's sound return to the big league after two games in the SANFL.

Sam Jacobs embraces Brenton Sanderson after the win. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: News Corp Australia

"Taylor needed an AFL match to find the speed, but he still looked great and he moved well," Sanderson said. "A couple of times he had the ball slip through his hands and he will be better for the run."

Adelaide Oval's failing siren was not heard above the crowd noise for the second time in a month. But this time the umpires — while not hearing the siren — let the third quarter play longer than permitted. This allowed Crows key forward Josh Jenkins to score his fourth goal two seconds after the timekeepers called an end to the term. His score gave Adelaide a 14-point lead to the last quarter.

"That's the second time it has happened here," said Sanderson referring to the earlier fade-out of the siren in the Port Adelaide-Geelong epic in the Anzac round. "Luckily, it is something I don't have to worry about."

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Payto & Panda: Izzy sets TAB record

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ISRAEL Folau will be the shortest ever first try-scoring option in TAB's history — for league or union — when the Waratahs play the Lions on Sunday afternoon.

After scoring the opening try in three of the Waratahs' five home games this year, Folau will be priced $4 to cross the stripe first against the South Africans.

In a market that usually sees even the best finishers at $10, Folau's is the shortest price ever offered and underlines he is the Mayor of Freak City.

Even prolific try sniffers like Nathan Blacklock, Nathan Merrett and the Morris twins were never close to $4.

"Even when Brett Morris was flying at one point, he was only $5," said TAB's bagman Glenn Munsie.

Told of his entry into the first tryscorer's history books, Folau said: "Really? I am busting to get another try, actually. It's been a while."

Folau's last try came less than a month ago when he took less than 60 seconds to cross against the Bulls, his comeback after "throatgate".

"Stuck" on nine tries, Folau is one try short of Peter Hewat's record for most tries in a Waratahs' season.

***

Balmain Rugby will hold a fundraiser this Sunday after the sad passing of popular clubman Toby Crisp.

Crisp suffered a heart attack playing fourth grade for Balmain two weeks ago and passed away peacefully in RPA last Friday.

The loss of the engaged 25-year-old, who was also a valued member of the NewsCorp family, was described as "devastating" by Balmain president Warren Livingstone.

Toby Crisp Picture: Supplied Source: Supplied

Crisp's memory will be honoured on Sunday at the Balmain Hotel from 12pm. A fundraising effort will kick off to help provide clubs with lifesaving training and equipment.

"We are aiming to raise money for defibrillators for as many subbies clubs as possible, and also pay for CPR courses for as many teams as possible as well," Livingstone said.

Donations are welcome, and people are invited to contact the club via Facebook or at balmainrugby@gmail.com

We add our condolences to the Crisp family.

**

AN injury-based version of Moneyball?

There was an interesting interview with Waratahs sports science and research manager Maria Nibali in Business Insider Australia this week, in which she suggests they can predict looming injuries for players and also recruit talent based on their resilience to predicted injuries.

Nibali said the Tahs program correctly predicted that three of their players would suffer non-contact injuries such as muscle strains in 2012, and they indeed did.

The Tahs say they use data intuitively when making recruitment calls.

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**

Unlike Woody Harrelson, Will Skelton can jump. He's 135kg, mind you, so it's not easy but the big Waratahs lock says the fact he isn't used as a lineout option for NSW doesn't mean he isn't capable of winning ball.

Skelton has been touted strongly as a Wallaby bolter for the June Test series against the French but the fact he's only pocketed a handful of lineout wins all year for the Tahs has been raised as potential question mark.

"I do jump, but for our team we have a few good light, rangy guys — although I wouldn't call Dave Dennis light," Skelton said.

"I am happy to lift them and when I get the call to jump I am happy to do that too.

"I have improved over the pre-season and this season a lot. I still get little comments from Benn Robinson to jump higher though."

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‘Tongan Thor’ dreams of Wallaby gold

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HE is the New Zealand schoolboy sensation who is being chased by four countries, two codes, at least 11 clubs and mastercoach Wayne Bennett, but Taniela 'Tongan Thor' Tupou has held a lifelong dream to play for the Wallabies.

The 18-year-old became an overnight internet sensation this week after footage of his unbelievable hat-trick in first XV rugby was posted on YouTube, leading to a deluge of offers from rugby and league teams.

A 135kg prop, who runs faster than the wingers on his Sacred Heart College team with a fend and footwork, Tupou is now the most in-demand teenage rugby player on the planet.

NRL sides Newcastle Knights and New Zealand Warriors want to sign him, along with five French rugby clubs, one English rugby club, as well as Kiwi Super Rugby franchises the Chiefs and Blues.

While Tupou has been prevented from speaking to media by his manager Daniel O'Loughlin, the Daily Telegraph tracked down his Australian-based brother Criff, who revealed that his younger brother has grown up aspiring to wear gold.

"Always growing up, he wanted to play for the Wallabies or the Kangaroos," said Criff Tupou, a miner based in Tasmania.

Asked why, when nearly all Kiwi schoolboys grow up dreaming of becoming an All Black, Criff responded: "Because the Wallabies always have a lot of Tongans in their team, and the All Blacks don't have too many".

It can be revealed that Tupou has been on the Waratahs' radar since well before the hat-trick video reached the masses, with NSW's chief scout Tim Kelaher understood to have picked him as a potential target months ago.

Waratahs coach Michael Cheika said of Tupou: "We're obviously looking for new talent all the time, it's part of our job.

"If a player like that shows the talent required to come in and be part of our system, we're interested."

Tupou, also known as Daniel - the English version of his name - is one of 11 children and moved to New Zealand from Tonga four years ago.

Interestingly, reports have emerged that Tupou will be prevented from representing the New Zealand Schoolboys team later this year because he does not hold a Kiwi passport.

Sacred Heart principal Jim Dale warned that Tupou could be lost to New Zealand rugby, telling the New Zealand Herald: "I think it is a naive stance. If there are talented kids like Daniel and they are deemed to be good enough, they should be picked - they should be given the opportunity.

"Daniel has been here in New Zealand since late 2010 and he's a wonderful kid. I'd hate to think that he'd be lost to another code or to another country who could be more accommodating."

And it is now a big possibility, with Criff revealing that he has been inundated with phone calls from France, England, and NRL clubs.

"I have all these clubs calling me every day now, it is crazy," Criff said.

"I just tell them that if they can give him a deal and bring our mum and little sister from Tonga, it will be the best thing they can do because Taniela will go to another level with his game.

"Our father passed away in 2006, then Taniela went to New Zealand four years later and left mum behind.

"She spends 100 pa'anga (100 Tongan dollars, or $A58) a day to call him, and he cries all the time.

"His motivation to play is to get mum [Loisi] and Selu [the youngest child in the family] to where he is, so they can have a better life.

"We grew up really poor, there were 13 of us in two rooms, most of us slept on the floor."

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Relentless Crows stun mild Magpies

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COLLINGWOOD missed a golden opportunity to grab hold of the race for fourth spot by falling to the Crows by 21 points at Adelaide Oval on Thursday night.

The Magpies had reasonable control of the game in the first half but kicked just one goal after the main break as several of their major weaknesses were exposed.

"It was a really good win tonight. The boys were absolutely fantastic. We were really embarrassed with how we played last week, so we were rapped to come back tonight and win,'' Adelaide coach Brenton Sanderson.

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"Our forwards were fantastic and applied tremendous defensive pressure. Our defence gave great rebound and our mids put in a real four-quarter effort.

"The crowd was awesome tonight. The 19th man really turned up tonight and they can certainly go home with a big smile on their face.''

Patrick Dangerfield again led the way for Adelaide with 32 disposals and eight tackles despite copping plenty of close attanetion from in-form Magpie tagger Brent Macaffer.

"To win tonight was pretty special,'' Dangerfield said.

Jamie Elliott only had 10 possessions. Picture: Simon Cross Source: News Corp Australia

"It was a hard 10-day break because we were disappointed with how we played (against Melbourne). We spoke about an even contribution from everyone.

"We applied relentless pressure tonight. We started well and maintained that pressure for the majority of the game.

The crowd was amazing tonight. When Tex came out on the ground to that noise, I couldn't help but smile and even cheer myself a little.

Re siren

"We had no idea what was going on. They're an amazing crowd. They city's done a great job. We are so lucky to play here.

Nick Maxwell and Sam Kerridge get accustomed to each other. Picture: Simon Cross Source: News Corp Australia

An inability to win clearances - which has been a troublespot for Nathan Buckley's side if not to this degree - was perhaps the most decisive factor.

It left a backline which has performed admirably for the past month overwhelmed and a forward line which had few winners starved of supply.

Scott Pendlebury, Dayne Beams and Tom Langdon won plenty of the ball and Heritier Lumumba got his side out of jail on several occasions.

Charlie Cameron gets Gatorade the treatment after his first win. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: News Corp Australia

But there were too many other players down for the Magpies to steal a road win against an Adelaide side which came out firing after a poor loss to Melbourne.

Lachlan Keeffe had his colours lowered by Crows key forward Josh Jenkins, raising the possibility of a recall for Nathan Brown ahead of next week's clash with West Coast at the MCG.

Jenkins kicked four goals in the first three quarters, forcing Buckley to reshuffle his backline and move Tyson Goldsack to defence.

A disappointed Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley. Picture: Simon Cross Source: News Corp Australia

Despite a midweek educational session with umpires boss Hayden Kennedy the Pies still finished on the wrong side of the free kick count.

Buckley's side is still reasonably well positioned to fulfil bold preseason predictions of a top four finish.

The Magpies don't travel outside of Melbourne again until round 16 and only have six games remaining on their schedule against sides currently inside the top eight.

With the Eagles, St Kilda, Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs to come in the next month, a record that currently sits at 5-3 could jump to 9-3.

Matthew Jaensch tries to avoide Jamie Elliott. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: News Corp Australia

It's a reasonable outlook for a club which was widely discounted after a horror opening round loss to Fremantle.

But given the Magpies' record away from home against the Crows - which now stands at 9-7 - this was a game they would have banked on winning.

The positive steps taken in a four game winning streak can't be forgotten but there are suddenly several areas needing attention.

The first is to refind the manic pressure which can hide many of the other problems.

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Tander longs for the Holden days

Holden Supercar driver Garth Tander has just signed a new deal with HRT. Source: Mark Horsburgh / Supplied

HOLDEN are set to re-sign with the Holden Racing Team (HRT) and reaffirm their commitment to V8 Supercars after early this month locking down for at least another two years Red Bull Racing Australia.

A day after former champion Garth Tander dismissed interest from rival teams to sign on for another stint with the powerful factory outfit, The Daily Telegraph can reveal Holden are close to sealing a deal with HRT.

Holden's involvement in the sport was threatened, with Australian operations to be shut down and the Commodore facing extinction.

But it is full steam ahead, with Holden certain to continue against Nissan and Volvo by backing two of the most powerful and best resourced teams in the field.

The future of Ford still remains in doubt, while Erebus V8 Australia, which uses AMG Mercedes, could fold under financial pressure or switch to another manufacturer.

HRT scored a win yesterday with the team able to retain long-time servant Tander despite suggestions he may abandon the team with no shortage of suitors.

The deal was announced before Tander's home race, with the Perth round to begin tomorrow at Barbagallo Raceway.

"It's great to sign a new deal with the Holden Racing Team," Tander said.

"It's an exciting time for the team, with the structural changes made before the start of the season starting to bear fruit. I really believe in what we're doing."

HRT managing director Adrian Burgess was pleased to have his formidable driving combination locked in for next year, with James Courtney also on a long-term deal.

"We're over the moon with Garth re-signing, and committing the next stage of his future, to the Holden Racing Team," Burgess said.

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Troisi desperate to make most of recall

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STILL only 25, James Troisi is ready to grab his Socceroos second coming with both hands.

In 2011-12 when he was ­taking Turkey by storm with Kayserispor, Troisi appeared to be cementing himself as a national team regular.

But for reasons unknown to him, calls eventually stopped coming from Australia's then coach Holger Osieck.

Then, having secured a dream move to Italian giant Juventus, he was sent to fellow Serie A club Atalanta, where the games also dried up.

But after a stunning A-League season for Melbourne Victory in which he scored 15 goals from 35 games and 2741 minutes — all career-high totals — Troisi is back in green and gold.

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Ange Postecoglou, who implored Troisi to come to Victory on loan after playing just eight games in 2012-13 for Atalanta, has brought the South Australian in from the cold.

"Yeah, I was young, but every time I came in to (Socceroos) camp I tried to do the best I could," Troisi said.

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"As a player It is a privilege to play for your national team and I don't take that for granted.

"If you're not playing regularly at your club, then I understand you shouldn't be getting called up for your national team, so first and foremost for me it has always been about my club football and if I'm doing well there then hopefully I'm getting the call.

Melbourne Victory's James Troisi earnt a place in Ange's 30-man squad. Source: News Corp Australia

"So that's why I was pretty disappointed with the previous two coaches because I was playing some good football in some good leagues and not getting acknowledged, really, for whatever reason.

"But hopefully I've turned the page and at the moment it seems to be working out pretty good for me.

"I'm excited. For me, I believe in the ability I have and, coming off the season I've had, I'm just going to keep trying to ­continue that form."

Troisi, who spent four years at English club Newcastle United from the age of 14, has nine Socceroos caps.

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He made five of those ­appearances in 2011 and his last game came in February 2012 when he started against Saudi Arabia at AAMI Park.

Things have changed dramatically in the national team since then, so much so that Troisi will not know many of his teammates on day one of the camp in Gosford on Thursday.

With no player named in the provisional 30-man squad guaranteed to survive the final cut, Troisi insisted the hard work was just beginning.

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Should he make it to Brazil, the attacking midfielder will join the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Arjen Robben in wearing the Adidas "Battle Pack" World Cup boots, which were launched around the world on Tuesday.

"Every player wants to play for their country at the highest level," Troisi said.

"It's going to be a fantastic World Cup and we're playing against some of the best players in the world,'' Troisi said.

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"Obviously it's going to be very difficult, we have to be ­realistic and we have to respect our opposition, but we also need to go out there and show what we can do.

"It's a new era and it's time for players like myself and younger players coming through to step up and show the ability that we have."

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Re-live famous night for Wanderers

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THE Wanderers' fairy tale is still alive after second-half wonder strikes from Shannon Cole and Brendon Santalab against Sanfrecce Hiroshima at Pirtek Stadium gave Western Sydney a night to remember.

Needing a 2-0 victory to overturn last week's 3-1 defeat to the same opposition, the Wanderers managed to manufacture exactly that. They may still be hurting from losing the grand final to Brisbane Roar, but the Wanderers showed admirable resilience to progress to the quarter-finals of the Asian Champions League in their first ever campaign.

And Shinji Ono couldn't have asked for a better finale to his two-year stint at Western Sydney - named player of the match for his excellent performance.

Re-live the drama in our blog below.

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Tinkler quizzed over Randwick exodus

Nathan Tinkler has removed many of his horses from Randwick stables. Source: News Limited

NATHAN Tinkler yesterday assured Racing NSW chief steward Ray Murrihy that his remaining horses and staff at Randwick would be looked after.

Tinkler made a drastic move on Monday when he shifted the bulk of his Patinack Farm racing stock from Thompson's stable and left ­behind only a few horses who had already trialled or raced.

The mass exodus fuelled speculation that Tinkler was about to sell Patinack Farm to an overseas interest in Asia.

Murrihy visited Thompson's stables early yesterday before having a brief conversation with Tinkler, the former billionaire mining magnate who will front the ongoing Independent Commission Against Corruption inquiry on Friday.

"We wanted to make sure the horses and staff were being looked after, and the stable was carrying on as normal, which we found to be the case,'' Murrihy said.

"I spoke with Mr Tinkler and he gave me those assurances the stable would continue to function. What we were interested in was the immediate situation of the horses and how they were being looked after.

"It's up to Mr Tinkler if he wants to add to those stable numbers or reduce them.

"This matter doesn't require any further stewards involvement at this stage.''

Thompson preferred not to comment to The Daily Telegraph. He has been a rock for Tinkler, despite the never-­ending speculation about the future of his Patinack Farm.

Just last year there was a Patinack fire sale at the Magic Millions in June on the Gold Coast, only for Tinkler to withdraw the bulk of his horses on the eve of them going under the hammer. The withdrawal infuriated buyers and Magic Millions officials.

Thompson has racked up plenty of winners for Tinkler, but is just as keen to chase success as a public trainer.

At Canterbury today he will saddle up first-starters Makeadane and First Seal, who is owned by the China Horse Club.

It's expected Tinkler will give evidence at the ICAC hearings on Friday.

There are claims he contributed money to the Liberals' ­effort to win the hotly contested seat of Newcastle during the 2011 elections.

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Rebels revel in hardworking identity

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MELBOURNE Rebels will receive a boost to its forward pack with prop Toby Smith set to return for Saturday night's clash with the Queensland Reds at Suncorp Stadium.

Smith has missed two weeks with a shoulder injury but is tipped to play against a team Melbourne is yet to beat in its four years in the Super Rugby competition.

Melbourne's pack has performed strongly in recent weeks and prop Laurie Weeks said it wasn't by accident.

"There was a big shift in our mentality," he said.

"(Coach) Tony (McGahan) came up to us in New Zealand a few weeks ago and said we need to find an identity.

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"I think we found that in the way we have really worked for each other.

"We may not be the biggest or most skilful (pack), but we work hard."

Smith's likely inclusion should help tip Saturday night's game in Melbourne's favour given Reds star prop James Slipper's suspension for a dangerous tackle.

"That's a huge loss for them," Weeks said.

"He's kind of the head honcho of their forward pack and we'll try to take advantage of that.

"I always really enjoy playing at Suncorp and it will be a huge opportunity to play against the other Australian players."

Queensland has struggled this season but Weeks said his side would take nothing for granted on Saturday night.

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"It's going to be a very difficult challenge — they are a Wallaby-laden team," he said.

"I think of their starting 15, 13 of them are Wallabies.

"They are looking for a bit of redemption and It's going to be a really tough game."

Rebels Back-rower Lopeti Timani has been declared fit to return to play following a knee injury which has seen him sidelined for nearly two months.

The powerful backrower, will most likely return via the Dewar Shield before looking to add to his maiden Rebels cap against the Western Force in Round 2.

While scrumhalf Nic Stirzaker's injury is not as serious as first feared, and he remains likely to feature for the club following the June international window.

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Man U’s Januzaj in Belgium WC squad

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BELGIUM coach Marc Wilmots has picked Manchester United winger Adnan Januzaj for his World Cup squad, three weeks after the teenager had chosen to play for the country's national team.

The 19-year-old Januzaj was born in Brussels with Balkan heritage and has played for United since 2011.

He was able to pick several nations for international duty, including Albania and Kosovo.

Manchester United's Belgian midfielder Adnan Januzaj during a training session at their Carrington training complex. Photo: AFP/PAUL ELLIS Source: AFP

Wilmots announced a 24-man team, but said the number of goalkeepers would be reduced from four to three based on the availability of Koen Casteels.

Januzaj joins other talented youngsters in the squad, including goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and playmaker Eden Hazard.

At the World Cup, Belgium will face Russia, South Korea and Algeria in Group H.

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Matildas have history on their side

Matildas goalkeeper Lydia Williams. Source: AP

THE significance of the Matildas playing in Thong Nat Stadium for Wednesday's opening AFC Asian Cup clash cuts deep into Australian soccer folklore.

Nearly 47 years ago the Socceroos were sent to Vietnam at the height of the war to play in the 'Friendly Tournament' in 1967 where Australia faced the then South Vietnam, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore and South Korea.

Socceroos legends the late Johnny Warren, Atti Abonyi and Billy Vojtek scored in the final, a 3-2 win over South Korea.

Matildas keeper Lydia Williams who celebrated her 26th birthday on Tuesday saw the stadium for the first time since 2008 when the national team was allowed to walk on the hallowed turf before facing Japan in the opening AFC Asian Cup match on Wednesday.

"I don't think we get educated enough about the participation that we had in wars and history and it's really cool and interesting to know that back in the day Australia played in the stadium that we're going to be,'' Williams said.

"It's pretty humbling to see that we're playing in a very significant tournament and in the day the Socceroos were a part of."

Williams believes the Matildas are in line to emulate the Socceroos 1967 vintage by claiming the Asian Cup tournament.

The current No. 1 at Western New York flash says the stadium is in good condition before hosting 15 out of the 17 Asian Cup matches.

"We played there one time in 2008 and it looks the same as back then, probably the grass is a bit better than before,'' Williams said.

"It will be interesting to see how it goes from the first game of the tournament to the end of the tournament."

But Williams said the Matildas are ready to face a buoyant Japan.

After a brilliant domestic season Williams is playing the style of football which pleases coach Alen Stajcic.

Apart from having a very safe pair of hands the 175cm keeper has used her foot skills to perfection in a system which Stajcic wants endorsed.

Playing the ball out from defence with short passing is destined to draw Japan out of shape and create goalscoring opportunities.

"I think we've come here prepared and re-energised,'' Williams said.

"It will be a really good game to see where we stand.

"But over the last few years women's football has developed where the goalkeeper uses a lot more of their feet and playing out and developing how to play out."

But celebrating another birthday milestone on the road isn't new for Williams.

"Out of my nine years celebrating with the national team this is my seventh birthday away from home,'' Williams said.

"It's a regular occurrence, I was in America when I turned 21 and the only two times at home was my 18th and two years ago when I did my knee.

"Hopefully we'll get birthday cake (on Tuesday)."

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Give me same effort each week: Malthouse

Carlton young gun Troy Menzel showed off his class and talent in a three-goal haul against St Kilda. Picture: Michael Klein. Source: Michael Klein / News Corp Australia

CARLTON coach Mick Malthouse still wants to see a greater level of consistency from his side despite it notching a 32-point win at Etihad Stadium on Monday night.

The Blues now head to the bye on the back of three wins from four games, but the major talking point from the game may yet come today as Blues captain Marc Murphy awaits the Match Review Panel's assessment of his inadvertent bump on Saints counterpart Nick Riewoldt in the opening stages of the third quarter.

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After being hit on the back of the head Riewoldt lay dazed on the turf for several seconds before being taken down in to the changerooms for assessment.

He returned to the field after about 10 minutes.

No Saint went near Bryce Gibbs, who finished with 38 disposals. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

Three second quarter majors to Troy Menzel and two from the boot of Chris Yarran helped Carlton to an eight-goal to three term which blew the game open after a wasteful opening kept St Kilda in the contest early.

"It's that consistency, we haven't really been able to mount that practically all year," Malthouse said.

"It's something we look at to find a common denominator. How come we can hit the scoreboard (in the second quarter) then we can't hit the scoreboard (in the third)?

"The opposition, their stats were a lot higher and they cleaned us up early. We just couldn't get hold of the football early enough to stop that onslaught by St Kilda and then get the ball forward.

Brock McLean had 29 possessions. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

"It took a long time to get back and steady. We were probably fortunate in that third quarter that they actually kicked points that were gettable goals."

Simon White could also come under review for an off the ball incident involving Luke Dunstan that forced the young Saint off the field in the third term.

Riewoldt had his head over the ball on the wing before being accidentally collected by Murphy from the side.

The incident will perhaps provide the best test case of Round 8 in the wake of last week's Jack Viney saga.

Kade Simpson flies over Josh Bruce during his 36-possession performance. Source: News Corp Australia

Murphy's actions, in which he turned to the side in an apparent attempt to brace for impact, were by no means deliberate, but in the current climate any contact to the head is likely to be reviewed by the MRP.

Jarryd Roughead, Marc LeCras and Liam Jones must today decide whether to accept or challenge rough conduct bans from the weekend's games.

"I see it like you see it, it's brief, and it's gone," Malthouse said.

"Murph would be the last bloke ever to want to infringe."

Meanwhile, the Blues revealed yesterday that 2013 first round draft pick Patrick Cripps is set to miss four weeks with a fractured fibula suffered while playing in the VFL on the weekend.

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Barkley makes England World Cup squad

Ross Barkley's breakout year for Everton has ended in England's World Cup squad selection. Source: Clive Brunskill / Getty Images

EVERTON breakthrough star Ross Barkley, 20, was named in a youthful England World Cup squad on Monday, but Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick only made the standby list.

Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole announced his international retirement on Sunday after being informed by England manager Roy Hodgson that he would not be selected, and 18-year-old Southampton defender Luke Shaw took his place.

Cole's Chelsea teammate Frank Lampard was also selected despite doubts about his inclusion, but Tottenham Hotspur right-back Kyle Walker missed out due to a pelvic injury.

Phil Jones, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Jack Wilshere all overcame injury scares to be included in the 23-man list, while Southampton striker Rickie Lambert was preferred to West Ham United rival Andy Carroll.

England have been drawn in Group D at the World Cup in Brazil alongside Italy, Uruguay and Costa Rica.

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Monday night footy flop

A small Etihad Stadium crowd witnessed Carlton beat St Kilda and Jack Newnes wrestle with Mitch Robinson. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Michael Klein / News Corp Australia

MONDAY night footy — yay or nay? On the evidence of last night the answer is a resounding "Nay".

In the AFL's only foray in to the timeslot this season just 26,708 turned up to Etihad Stadium to watch Carlton defeat St Kilda by 32 points.

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This is the fifth year in a row these two teams have met on the Monday after Mother's Day and the crowd has decreased every time.

Some 34,054 attended last year, which was down from 38,823 in 2012, 41,576 in 2011 and 42,866 in 2010.

It could be said that Monday nights are best for television — and the TV ratings will make for interesting viewing on Tuesday — but a common gripe on social media last night was that this particular game wasn't even on free-to-air.

Marc Murphy finished with 32 possessions. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

Channel Seven's broadcast last year averaged 371,000 viewers in Melbourne, which was up on 327,000 the year before, but last night's figures will get nowhere near that given a great deal of the population goes without Fox Footy.

If the AFL is in need of a new timeslot, and it is indeed a competition between Monday nights and Thursday nights, then incoming chief executive Gillon McLachlan may find his winner by the end of this week.

Thursday night's Round 9 opener between Adelaide and Collingwood at Adelaide Oval is already a sellout, with a crowd pushing 50,000 expected.

Would a bigger drawcard help attract the masses on Mondays? Maybe.

In 2009, 46,880 showed up when the Pies played the Saints on a Monday night at Docklands.

But a common chord of complaint is that by Monday the general footy public is happy to move on and look forward to the next round.

Chris Yarran celebrates one of his four goals. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

Monday night's game finished at 9.56pm, so to then turn around and head home for a few hours' kip before getting up early is hard enough for mums and dads, let alone their school-aged children.

And while you could make the same argument of a Thursday night game, you just get the feeling that people are happy to cop a few Friday yawns if it means the weekend feels like it's started a night early.

The AFL is on the right track with its Thursday night experiment.

Six matches played in five states this year gives each game a marquee-event sort of feel. It may be the way to go.

Monday night's game, Monday night's event, just felt tired.

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Another bad day engulfs the NRL

Mitchell Pearce has issued a statement via his lawyer denying any 'inappropriate interaction' with a female patron at a Kings Cross nightclub on Saturday night. Courtesy: Nine News

ALL of Sydney has now seen the footage that led to Mitchell Pearce's arrest in the early hours of Sunday morning in Kings Cross — but the NRL was on Monday night waiting to decide if it warranted punishment before the police investigation into Pearce's night out was completed.

But rugby league's image is again under fire after the Blues' State of Origin star was exposed in embarrassing vision aired on Channel 9 on Monday night.

IF PEARCE GOES, WHO DO NSW TURN TO?

PEARCE DENIES INAPPROPRIATE INTERACTION

CCTV footage of Mitchell Pearce lunging at a women in a yellow dress before sitting back down in his chair. Picture: CH 9 Source: Channel 9

It showed Pearce in a highly intoxicated state and appearing to move towards a woman inside the popular Beach Haus nightclub.

The young woman immediately took offence to Pearce and alerted police inside the club.

Roosters Mitchell Pearce escorted outside by police. Source: Channel 9

The vision showed Pearce being escorted outside.

He was later arrested when he allegedly became argumentative and refused to leave the area. Pearce was issued with an infringement notice involving a fine and banned from Kings Cross for 48 hours.

But he has not been charged with any other offence.

NSW LOOK AT HALFBACK ALTERNATIVES

The women in a yellow dress Micthell Pearce lunged at. Source: Channel 9

Police were on Monday night appealing for the woman to come forward and give evidence.

The law firm Henry Davis York, which is acting for Pearce, issued a statement denying Pearce acted inappropriately with a female patron.

"There has been speculation and innuendo in the media which creates the impression that our client had an inappropriate interaction with a female patron at a nightclub over the weekend. That speculation is false,'' the law firm said.

Pick Your Greatest Origin Team - will Mitchell Pearce make the cut?

Mitchell Pearce at Sydney Roosters HQ. Source: News Corp Australia

Pearce and teammate Boyd Cordner were also asked to leave the Clovelly Hotel earlier on Saturday night.

Pearce was at Roosters training on Monday and gave the waiting media the "thumbs up".

The Roosters star also received support from NSW Origin teammate Josh Reynolds.

Reynolds told Channel 9: "I spoke to Mitchell today and he's fine.

"He's a good mate of mine and he said he's in the right and didn't do much wrong.'

CCTV footage of Mitchell Pearce lunging at a women in a yellow dress before sitting back down in his chair. Picture: CH 9 Source: Channel 9

Manly's Anthony Watmough added: "I suppose it comes down to having good people with you. If you have been on the drink all day with the same people you are not thinking right. I'm not making any excuses for Pearcey but he's a mate of mine and I'll back him to the hilt. But we all make bad decisions at one stage or another.

"I think he's just got to put it behind him the best he can and surround himself with some good people.''

Mitchell Pearce in action for the Roosters earlier this year. Source: News Corp Australia

The NRL's chief operating officer Jim Doyle did not return calls last night. An NRL spokesman said they would monitor the police investigation before deciding Pearce's fate.

"The police have indicated they want the woman to come forward so in that regard we would assume that their inquiries are ongoing," the spokesman said.

Asked how long the investigation could take, the spokesman added: "We normally wait until the police conduct their investigation before acting unless we have got information that requires us to do something earlier."

Roosters Mitchell Pearce speaking with police. Picture: CH 9 Source: Channel 9

Last year Blake Ferguson was sent home from the NSW team camp at Coogee after a drunken night out before State of Origin two pending a police investigation.

Ferguson was later charged and found guilty of indecent assault but Ferguson was stood down for four weeks by Canberra as he underwent an alcohol management program.

North Queensland's James Tamou was also ruled out of Origin last year and fined $20,000 and suspended for one club game after he was charged with high range drink driving.

Mitchell Pearce during Sydney Roosters training at Allianz Stadium. Source: News Corp Australia

It remains to be seen if Pearce will be stood down from this weekend's game between the Roosters and the Cowboys in Townsville ahead of the naming of the NSW team next Tuesday.

The major sponsor of the NSW Blues' VB on Monday night issued a statement that they were also monitoring the NRL's investigation but it is understood they are keen to see a full and transparent investigation.

Police want to speak with the woman in the yellow dress. Picture: CH 9 Source: Channel 9

A spokesperson for Carlton and United Breweries said: "CUB is confident the NRL has processes in place to manage the issue and will keep us up to date with any further developments."

The last thing NSW can afford is to lose the sponsorship given that before VB came on board the Blues couldn't find a sponsor and made a public appeal through the Daily Telegraph.

CUB last year extended their contract with the Blues until 2017.

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Ryan’s agent dismisses Real rumours

Matthew Ryan of Club Brugge has been linked with La Liga giants Real Madrid. Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos / Getty Images

SOCCEROO Mat Ryan's agent says the rising goalkeeper is a man in demand after a brilliant first season in Europe but links with Real Madrid are only rumours.

Ryan's former Central Coast Mariners manager Graham Arnold, now with Sydney FC, on Friday said he had heard the goalkeeper's form with Belgian side Club Brugge this season had caught the eye of the Spanish powerhouse.

Ryan's agent, former Denmark striker Mikkel Beck, said the Australian was being monitored by several clubs and, although he would not say if there had been any approaches, he said he'd had no contact with Real Madrid.

Beck expects interest will intensify during the World Cup but he stressed the 22-year-old has no intention of leaving Brugge, where he is contracted until 2016.

Matthew Ryan's agent says talk of Real Madrid interest is just speculation. Source: Getty Images

"I think with Real Madrid it has to go down in the category of rumours,'' Beck said.

"I haven't had any contact with Real Madrid about Matty.

"But it's no secret that he's had a great season and of course in Europe when you have a great season then people start to follow you.

"That doesn't mean Matty will leave Club Brugge.

"He's feeling very comfortable and it's only his first season in Europe, let's not forget that.

"He's just enjoying his football where he is and just enjoying the attention that comes with being a good footballer and doing well.''

Ryan in action for Club Brugge. Source: Getty Images

Ryan has played every minute this season for Brugge, who are four points behind leaders Standard Liege with three games to play.

Beck said he was talking with the club about a possible new contract but "there's no hurry.''

Ryan's transfer value has shot up to as much as $A3.5 million according to some estimates and it could increase further if he impresses for Australia at the World Cup.

Ryan is battling Mitch Langerak for a spot in goal and looks favourite to start in Brazil following the retirement of Mark Schwarzer.

"I think he deserves to play,'' Beck said.

"Looking at the group Australia are in (Spain, the Netherlands and Chile), there can only be lots of attention on those games.

"I expect the other teams to attack a lot and create lots of chances and there could be a lot of attention on the Australian goalkeeper.''

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League legend Reg Gasnier passes away

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THE rugby league world is mourning the loss of legend Reg Gasnier, who has passed away just one day short of his 75th birthday.

The former St George Dragons centre died in the Miranda nursing home where he has lived for several years.

He played 39 Test matches for Australia, scoring 28 tries and 127 matches for the Dragons during their world record 11-straight premierships.

John Raper and Reg Gasnier (R) embrace after defeating Wests in 1963 grand final. Source: News Corp Australia

Reg Gasnier playing for Australia during 1963 Kangaroo Tour of England. Source: News Corp Australia

Team of the Century. (back L-R) Wally Lewis, Bob Fulton, John Raper, Mal Menninga (front L-R) Reg Gasnier, Norm Provan, Ron Coote, Noel Kelly, Graeme Langlands and Andrew Johns. Source: News Limited

Gasnier was known as the Prince of Centres, an absolutely brilliant attacking player.

He was the uncle of recently retired Dragons star Mark Gasnier.

Dragons team mate, fellow Immortal and friend Johnny Raper was devastated by the news.

"It's a very, very sad day," Raper said. "I went and saw him last Tuesday.

"He didn't look the best, but he was a fighter like he always was on the football field and I thought he'd get better.

John Raper, Graeme Langlands and Reg Gasnier. Source: News Limited

St George and Australian rugby league legend Reg Gasnier with a bronze statue of himself unveiled at the SCG. Source: News Limited

"He was just a phenomenal player – the best I played with.

"He used to just say give me the ball, we'd give it to him … and he'd score.

"He was a rare genius. I saw Clive Churchill play and always wanted to play with someone as good as him."

"I think I did that by playing alongside Reg Gasnier."

Reg Gasnier in the 1965 St George premiership team. Source: News Corp Australia

Early 1960s photo of Reg Gasnier (ball). Source: News Corp Australia

Raper remained close to Gasnier after their playing days, with the pair enjoying great times and memories in retirement.

"He was an ornament to the game," Raper said. "A man who led by example and was a great captain.

"Away from football he was a great man. A wonderful citizen. We will miss him dearly."

Centers of the Century Mal Meninga and Reg Gasnier. Source: News Limited

Gasnier had been ill for a number of years after suffering a stroke.

Until recent years, he attended functions and reunions and would often help the Dragons with promotional work.

He was a St George junior who grew up in Mortdale and was awarded an AM not long after retirement when he took on roles in the media.

League great Reg Gasnier. Source: News Limited

He was also named as a centre in the Australian Rugby League's Team of the Century.

Fellow immortal Bob Fulton was devastated to learn of his passing.

"He was my hero when I was used to come to Sydney and watch St George play at the Sydney Cricket Ground," Fulton said.

"I remember in 1967 we both got selected in a City side together but Reg was injured and had to pull out.

"It would have been a career highlight to play alongside him.

"To be selected as one of the original Immortals alongside him was a humbling experience."

Reg Gasnier for the Kangaroos. Source: News Limited

CLUB CAREER 1959-67

St George 1959-67, 125 games, 127 tries

Vs touring sides 1962-63, 2 games, 3 tries

Total: 127 games, 130 tries

REPRESENTATIVE CAREER 1959-67

City Firsts 1959-65, 5 games, 3 tries

Vs touring sides 1960-64, 3 games, 4 tries

NEW SOUTH WALES 1959-67

Vs Queensland 1959-67, 16 games, 13 tries

Vs touring sides 1959-67, 5 games, 4 tries

Total: 21 games, 17 tries

AUSTRALIA 1959-67

Tests and World Cup 1959-67, 39 games, 28 tries

Tour matches 1959-67, 38 games, 37 tries

Total: 77 games, 65 tries

GRAND TOTAL

All senior matches, 233 games, 219 tries

St George NRL player Mark Gasnier (L) his uncle Reg (C). Source: News Corp Australia

Reg Gasnier on the attack. Source: News Limited

HIGHLIGHTS:

* Gasnier captained Australia in eight Tests and was captain of the 1967-68 Kangaroos.

* He played third grade with St George in 1958 from junior club Renown United, and played first grade and Test football the following season. He played four games in reserve grade and then five in first grade before being chosen for NSW in 1959.

* Gasnier played President's Cup (junior representative) 1957-58.

* He scored three tries in his second Test against New Zealand, three tries in his first match on the 1959-60 Kangaroo tour and three in his Test debut against Great Britain.

Reg Gasnier pictured in 1975. Source: News Limited

* He played in six of St George's grand final winning sides (1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965).

* Former Sydney Sun sportswriter EE Christensen chose Gasnier as the NSW Player of the Year in 1959, 1961 and 1964 (with Johnny Raper).

* Injury ended Gasnier's career prematurely in France in 1968.

* With Clive Churchill, Johnny Raper and Bob Fulton, he was named as one the original "Immortals" in Rugby League Week in 1981.

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Elin takes a swing at Tiger

Happier times ... Tiger Woods arrives with his then-fiancee, Elin Nordegren. Source: News Limited

TIGER Woods's ex-wife Elin Nordegren took a veiled swipe at the world's greatest golfer on the weekend as she graduated top of her class.

It was a display of rare public candour from the former Swedish model, who graduated from Rollins College's Hamilton Holt School in Winter Park, Florida.

In her commencement address, she told her 300 classmates that night school offered her a "place of peace in the wild storm of my personal life."

Her divorce from Tiger Woods, ironically, "was right after I had taken communication and the media," said Nordegren, 34, who earned a bachelor's degree in psychology.

"I probably should have taken more notes in that class," she added, to laughs.

Through his many infidelities, Nordegren had remained on the fence about divorcing Woods — until she famously chased him out of the house with a golf club in 2010 after learning of his 15th mistress.

She said the internationally publicised ordeal was "some of the most challenging times" in her life — but didn't bother to mention Woods by name.

"I have also realised that education has been the only consistent part of my life for the last nine years," Nordegren said. "And it has offered me comfort — because education is the one thing that no one can take away from you."

New beginnings ... Tiger Woods and Lindsey Vonn attend the Costume Institute Gala in 2013. Source: AFP

Nordegren started at the Hamilton Holt School shortly after moving from Sweden to the US to work as a nanny.

After marrying Woods in 2004, she at times took one class per semester and took three major breaks — two for the birth of her children, one for divorce.

On Saturday she was honoured as the Outstanding Graduating Senior.

University officials lauded her for her determination as a single mother rearing Woods' two children, Sam and Charlie — and for raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities benefiting less privileged children.

"I've been called a woman with no words in the media and criticised for not talking very much," she said from the podium. "Words can be powerful. But what matters is the action behind the words."

On the eve of Mother's Day, Nordegren took a moment to recognise classmates who, like herself, struggle to be parents and students simultaneously.

"My hope is that today I'm showing my children, Sam and Charlie — who's sleeping in his chair — that it's never too late to follow your dream."

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Murray admits loss of form a mystery

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LITTLE more than a month away from a Wimbledon ­defence that already appears doomed, Andy Murray admits he does not know what is wrong ailing awith his once silky game.

The Scot has struggled since reaching the peak of a fabulous career with his stirring victory at the All England Club last July.

Since then the Olympic and US Open champion has had back surgery, split with coach Ivan Lendl's counsel, slipped six places to world No.8 — and lost to a battalion of foot soldiers.

While an 18-7 season tally is hardly shabby, Murray's annual struggle on clay continued with a 6-3 6-2 drubbing from Colombian qualifier Santiago Giraldo, who has also put Lleyton Hewitt and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to the sword in Madrid last week.

As impressive as world No.46 Giraldo has been at the Mutua Open, ­Murray's inability to gather momentum since Lendl's decision to stand down in March remains a growing worry for the French Open, which starts on May 25, and even more of a concern with Wimbledon looming.

Andy Murray grimaces as he returns a ball in his eventual loss to Santiago Giraldo in Madrid. Source: AP

Asked what was missing from his game, Murray said: "My coach is missing. That's a big part of my team.

"But even when I was working with Ivan, I didn't necessarily play my best tennis here last year. I'm not 100 per cent sure what it is."

While back soreness, and ensuing surgery, robbed Murray of the chance to add more lustre to career-defining his Wimbledon win, there is also a suggestion the baseliner is ensnared in suffering a massive mental let-down.

Since resuming in Doha, Qatar, in February, Murray is without a title and has suffered losses to Florian Mayer (ranked 40), Roger Federer (6), Marin Cilic (37), Grigor Dimitrov (22), Milos Raonic (11), Novak Djokovic (2), Fabio Fognini (13) and Giraldo.

His most recent title ­triumph remains Wimbledon, a result that cemented a personal best ranking of No.2.

Having scaled the sport's Everest, Murray understandably has been lost in something of a psychological fog.

The question is when, and how, does he emerge from it and reprise the clear-minded predator of 2012-13?

Murray is all smiles as he poses with the Wimbledon trophy after beating Novak Djokovic last year. Source: Supplied

"It's tough because some days I'm playing well, and then the next day I'm not playing well," Murray said.

"So, yeah, I need to become more consistent. My best ­tennis, or my sort of base level, has to stay the same for a lot longer.

"It's not necessarily about practising loads of stuff on the court.

"I need to be mentally stronger and more switched on for longer."

Lendl was with Murray for almost 30 months, presiding over his Olympic, US Open and Wimbledon triumphs ­before bowing out in Miami in March.

No replacement has been found. Nor is there an imminent move to fill the breach.

Murray recently listed eight potential targets.

Several Australians, including Roger Rasheed, Darren Cahill and Bob Brett, were speculated to be on ­Murray's radar, along with John McEnroe.

Murray says he will not be rushed into a new partnership, possibly because the coach he wants is currently under contract.

Fans take photographs as Murray parades with the trophy in front of an adoring gallery. Source: Supplied

Whatever the outcome, Murray will do well to find a way out of the maze in Rome before heading to Paris for the French Open.

Though accustomed to saturation media coverage during Queen's Club and Wimbledon, the amiable right-hander clearly struggles without a strong voice in his corner.

His struggles come in the lead-up to what shapes as a landmark grand slam at ­Roland Garros.

With clouds over the preparations of his three main rivals — Rafael Nadal (form until Madrid), Novak Djokovic (wrist injury) and Roger Federer (recent father to twin boys this week) — Murray would ordinarily shape as a leading contender. Not this time — not yet.

Murray's best result is a semi-final appearance in 2011, losing to Nadal in straight sets.

Despite a modest record in the French capital, Murray ­believes he can win there.

Without Lendl's anchor, it will be doubly difficult with men such as Stan Wawrinka and Dimitrov leading the sport's quiet — but unmistakable — revolution.

Murray showed he is an extraordinary competitor by becoming the first British man to win Wimbledon in 77 years. His current task is equally steep.

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