Bulldogs too strong for struggling Raiders

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LAST week Des Hasler called for changes to the State of Origin schedule after the Bulldogs crashed to their third straight defeat without their superstar halves combination who were away on NSW duties.

But last night Josh Reynolds and Trent Hodkinson both admitted the experience of playing for the Blues is going to make them even better players as the focus returns to club football and the run home to the finals.

Backing up two nights after NSW's historic victory, Reynolds and Hodkinson were instrumental in Canterbury's hard-fought 22-14 victory over Canberra that gave the former competition leaders their first win in a month.

The Raiders try their best to stop Tony Williams. Source: News Corp Australia

Reynolds set up two crucial tries leading up to half-time and landed a fantastic 40/20 kick, while Hodkinson inspired another vital try early in the second half that basically killed off the Raiders for the night.

"To get two wins in three days is a pretty great feeling," a jubilant Reynolds said after walking off the same field he made his debut on in the corresponding game three years ago.

Hasler said Hodkinson was actually ruled out of the game on Thursday with a cork.

But after passing a late medical Hodkinson said he wanted to pay back his Canterbury teammates after missing their last three losses.

"It still doesn't feel real at the moment," Hodkinson said.

"Obviously (Origin) has given me a bit more confidence, no doubt, having a couple of Origins under my belt.

Drury Low scores his second try of the night for Canterbury. Source: Getty Images

"Hopefully I can bring that experience and confidence back to the Bulldogs.

"We'd had a few losses lately so we were desperate for a win leading into the bye and Manly the week after."

After the game Reynolds looked like he could have fallen asleep on his feet as he stood outside the Bulldogs dressing rooms talking to the media.

But asked what benefit he would get out of playing in a winning Origin series, he said:

"The best way to describe it is it helps me get a bit mentally tougher.

"Me and Trent wanted to come back here tonight and bring energy to the boys and just show them we were here to play."

They certainly did that.

Jarrod Croker got the home side off to a good start but they could keep it up. Source: Getty Images

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With the Raiders keen for a big game on a nightclub legends gathered for the 20 year reunion of their 1994 premiership winning team, the home team started strongly to claim an 8-4 lead.

But Reynolds blindsided them in the countdown to the break when he laid on rapid fire back-to-back tries.

Quick hands from Reynolds created space for Corey Thompson to score in the 33rd minute and a brilliant sideline conversation from Hodkinson put the Dogs ahead for the first time in the match.

Josh Reynolds gets some close attention form the Raiders. Source: News Corp Australia

Two minutes later Reynolds was at it again when he produced a magnificent 40/20 kick — and from the next set Drury Low crossed for his second try to give the Bulldogs a 14-8 lead at the break.

Not to be outdone by his Blues halves partner, Hodkinson then sparked the Bulldogs' fourth try in the 50th minute with a terrific kick chase forcing a crucial mistake from Reece Robinson who dropped the ball while attempting to get himself back into the field of play.

Hodkinson's desperate defence forced the error as Tim Lafai swooped on the loose ball to score as the Dogs went to a 20-8 lead.

NSW Origin hero Trent Hodkinson has no problem backing up for the Bulldogs. Source: News Corp Australia

The match ended up four tries to two in Canterbury's favour after a late try to Anthony Milford at least gave the small crowd of 10,873 a late cheer on what turned out to be another disappointing night as the temperature dipped below zero degrees.

The loss leaves Canberra's finals' hopes on life support with Ricky Stuart's team stuck on 10 competition points after slumping to their eighth defeat in their last 10 matches.

But after the game Stuart was positive about the team's effort, if not their execution.

"I can't knock their effort, gee, they just never, ever give in," Stuart said.

"A lot of other teams would like to have what we have got in that regard but I'd like to be able to complete sets like other teams."

CANTERBURY 22 (D Low 2 T Lafai C Thompson tries T Hodkinson 3 goals) bt CANBERRA 14 (J Croker A Milford tries J Croker 3 goals) at GIO Stadium. Referee: Alan Shortall, Ashley Klein.

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League coach set Skelton towards Wallabies

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CRAIG Macleod remembers coaching Will Skelton in junior footy.

Even as a teenager Skelton was, you guessed it, a massive human.

"He would carry the footy and there'd always be about four or five guys hanging off him to put him down," Macleod recalls.

"The crowd came to their feet every time he got the ball and a lot of those guys, the defenders, are now playing first grade at different clubs so he wasn't playing against mugs."

It's worth noting at this point that Macleod could, in time, turn out to be a pivotal figure in Australian rugby.

Macleod was Skelton's coach in junior rugby league, not rugby, and those future first-graders are current NRL players.

But sensing the destiny of the 2.03m, 140kg lay in a rival code, Macleod not only encouraged his giant player to pursue rugby union, he literally drove Skelton to the game's doorstep.

Two years later Skelton became a Waratah, and today, four years on, the 140kg lock will make his Wallabies debut against France.

"Will was always a tremendous talent," Macleod said. "It's a great story. We're all very proud."

Now a cult hero at Allianz Stadium, Skelton's rampaging style is hoped to help the Wallabies clean sweep the French in today's third Test.

But were it not for Macleod's intervention — and a photo shoot with the Daily Telegraph — in 2010, Skelton may well have been hauling defenders for a rugby league team instead, perhaps even in the NRL.

Skelton grew up playing league and at the age of 17 was in the S.G Ball team for Wests, with the likes of now-Tigers stars James Tedesco, David Nofoaluma and Sauaso Sue.

"He was bloody massive," Tedesco said yesterday. "Hard to put down, for sure."

Skelton juggled league with union, however, and was also playing rugby for Hills Sports High.

The school rugby team was picked to represent Australia in a world schools tournament in Japan in 2010, and with Skelton one of several massive players, the 923kg forward pack posed for a photo with the Waratahs forwards. The 893kg NSW pack was dwarfed.

"I remember walking away from that thinking "holy heck, that's the future of rugby"," NSW prop Benn Robinson said yesterday.

Skelton posed in an individual picture alongside Wycliff Palu, and after reading the Tele's story, Macleod called his 2.03m S.G Ball second rower in for a meeting.

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"We sat down and talked about things," Macleod said.

"He was umming and aahing. I said you have lots of ability but you are juggling both, and I think you'd have a big future in rugby union. With your size and ability, union is going to suit your talents and you could seriously go places.

"We talked about Wycliff Palu, who played lower grades at St George. I used the analogy with Will, saying you have the same potential as him to kick on. But it's not going to happen in two minutes, so you need to go somewhere to learn. Go and learn off the best."

Macleod got a number for Sydney Uni colts coach Jack Farrer, rang and talked about this huge kid called Skelton.

"He knew about him," he continues. "So we drove up there and looked around the facilities.

"I told Will to sit down with your mum and Dad and have a good think about it. He chose that path, and the rest is history."

Skelton says Macleod's influence at the time "definitely" crystallise his muddled thoughts.

"It definitely gave me that push to pursue rugby," the Wallaby newcomer said this week.

"I wasn't 100 percent on either. I was on the fence. I thought I could go on and play with the Magpies, or maybe go to West Harbour, actually. My best mate was playing for them.

"But I wanted to learn the fundamentals and excel, and so we went up to Sydney Uni. They embraced me."

With hard-to-miss dimensions, Skelton's rise in the rugby ranks was rapid. He played colts for Sydney Uni, but after missing Australian under 20 selection, played for Samoa in the Junior World Championships.

Skelton as a junior alongside Wycliff Palu. Source: News Limited

(Skelton's little brother Cameron – who is actually bigger and also under contract with NSW – recently did the same).

A foot injury for most of 2012 delayed progress, but after trimming down puppy fat with a part-time job on a removallists truck, Skelton returned to action at the ARU National Academy.

In late 2012, the youngsters trained against the Waratahs.

"We had an opposed session and it was one of the Tahs' first proper contact sessions," Skelton recalls.

"But we'd be doing a lot of hard work prior to that, and our boys sort of finished on top. A few of us got picked to go train with NSW, and I was one of them."

Skelton never went back to the academy. NSW coach Michael Cheika spotted a live on and backed the 20-year-old, playing him in trials and though still very raw, then threw his x-factor potential into action for the Waratahs five months later.

The world stood up and noticed a few games later when Skelton, undaunted, played the house down against the British and Irish Lions.

"You have to give Michael Cheika and the Waratahs credit," Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie said this week.

"They spotted him and put him in there; he probably wasn't set up to play at that level straight away but they persisted, and he made all the physical development and he obviously had the right attitude."

And at the Waratahs together. Source: News Limited

Bright and eager to learn, the commerce student has impressed Wallaby coaching staff in camp in recent weeks.

McKenzie said it was the skills, and not just size, of the big lock that secured Test selection.

Macleod clocked all of that years ago.

"I remember all the catch-pass drills we used to do … he was a bit of a natural in that stuff, which was amazing given his size," he said. "Will had a great work ethic, and was always like a sponge.

"He was certainly well respected by those sort of guys who were in the team. They loved playing with him, and are all really happy to see him doing well.

"People involved with that SG Ball team all talk about it. A few years ago he was running around with us, and now here is about to play for Australia in rugby."

Tedesco said he was "very proud" to hear of Skelton's Wallabies call-up this week.

"That's the highest honour, playing for your country," he said. "Rugby obviously suits him and his size perfectly, so he's made a good call there. He's a nice guy so I'm happy for him."

Macleod will be in the Allianz stands today, with zero-point-zero regret about steering Skelton away from league and towards his destiny.

After supplying the Daily Telegraph with a Wests S.G Ball team photo this week, another text from Macleod quickly pinged through.

"Hope it keeps the big fella smiling. He is a better bloke than a footy player, and he is one great footy player."

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Hawk Clarkson on the mend

Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson congratulates Brendon Bolton in the rooms. Picture: Getty Source: Michael Dodge / Getty Images

ALASTAIR Clarkson is set to return as Hawthorn coach by Round 16 subject to a medical clearance.

Clarkson continues to increase his presence at Hawthorn during the week and last Friday night attended the clash against Carlton for the first time since being hospitalised last month.

Fill-in coach Brendon Bolton will coach the side today against Collingwood and again versus Gold Coast next week before Clarkson undergoes more tests after Round 15.

The Herald Sun understands should that medical assessment unfold as expected, Clarkson would be back in the hot seat in a Friday night clash against North Melbourne.

If not, his return would only be delayed by another fortnight but well ahead of a finals campaign in which the Hawks hope to defend their 2013 flag.

Clarkson is now believed to be battling only minor symptoms as a result of the Guillian Barre illness that has kept him out of the coaching box for three weeks.

At one stage Hawthorn officials feared he might miss the finals series with uncertainty over a return in 2015.

Should Clarkson return he can continue to delegate some training and player meetings to assistants like Bolton to protect his health.

The worry is the stress of coaching might harm his recovery, but Clarkson believes his prospects are extremely positive.

Hawthorn defender Matthew Spangher said yesterday the players had no idea about a return date, but were happy to continue winning despite the interrupted coaching arrangements.

"It is one of those things, we would love to have him back, he is a great coach and a great asset to our club,'' he said.

"But his health takes priority and it's up to him and his family to make a call. He will make that decision, he's a responsible man.

"He hasn't been in meetings all that much, but he's a presence around the club.

"Brendon has got a great relationship with the players so it has all been seamless. Clarko has given real tutelage to the coaching staff and it's been great for Brendon to have that match-day experience."

Clarkson said recently he would make a full recovery from a medical condition that paralysed triple Brownlow medallist Ian Stewart for months.

"(I asked) 'what are we talking about here, doc?", in terms of recuperation and length of time and when it was anywhere from four days to four months, it wasn't enough for me to think that being able to make a full recovery was going to be difficult,'' Clarkson said.

"That question about my coaching mortality never came to fruition."

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Cook hits out at criticism from Warne

England captain Alastair Cook holds his head after Sri Lanka held on for a draw in the first Test. Source: IAN KINGTON / AFP

SHANE Warne always was good at tormenting his victims until they snapped in frustration and played a shot they would regret — and he still is.

England captain Alastair Cook has finally bitten back at the Australian legend after three years of heavy criticism of his leadership skills, which Warne sees as manifestly inadequate.

Cook has asked for "something to be done" about the sledging, which is usually aired in Warne's column in the English newspaper, The Telegraph, and his commentary on Sky Sports.

It was a constant feature of last year's Ashes series in Australia, in which Cook and his team were humiliated 5-0.

Cook admits he has taken it personally which might be seen by some as a sign of weakness. Others might applaud his willingness to hit back at unfair sniping.

He cracked it emotionally in an interview with the BBC's cricket correspondent Jonathan Agnew following last weekend's first Test against Sri Lanka, which England failed to win by one wicket with tardy over-rates an issue that threatened to see Cook punished.

"Something needs to be done because for the three years that I've been England captain I have, in my eyes, been criticised for a hell of a lot of that time," he said.

"Yes, when we lose games of cricket as captain you will be criticised. But I've also won a lot of games of cricket for England and more one-day games than anybody else as England captain.

"I've won an Ashes, I've won in India away, which I'm very proud of.

"So to be criticised for three years, totally, with those results, I find quite hard to take, to be honest."

Asked whether he thought the criticism was personal, he said: "Yeah, I think it is. It probably won't change anything, which is sad."

Warne, who is believed to be on a sea cruise and will not be part of the Sky commentary team for the second Test in Leeds, did not respond immediately.

Before the first match, England's first Test since the team and backroom staff was rejigged after the whitewash in Australia, Warne wrote that he hoped Cook would not revert back to his "boring" ways.

His post-match column was only mildly critical of the timing of Cook's declarations.

He will probably be delighted to have got through his man's defences so comprehensively.

In March, he denied he was simply acting as an agent provocateur to assist Australian and his close mate Michael Clarke.

Writing in The Telegraph he said then: "I am not an Australian cheerleader, I call it as I see it.

"I wanted Alastair Cook to captain well, but I saw how defensive he was when England were winning and thought that if Australia just improved a little then results could be reversed.

"I was proved correct as England made so many poor decisions in the field. Some of it was basic stuff. For example when Australia needs four runs to win at the MCG you do not have six people on the fence."

ron.reed@news.com.au

Twitter: @Reedrw

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McMeniman relishing playing again

Comeback queen Clare McMeniman will not let a sore nose stop her from another grand final. Source: Jerad Williams / News Corp Australia

IT takes more than a bloodied and throbbing nose to stop Queensland Firebird Clare McMeniman, or test her friendship with Laura Geitz.

The tough defender, who spilled blood for her team in the preliminary final, was back at training on Wednesday before Sunday's ANZ Championship grand final against the Melbourne Vixens.

She is fit to mark Vixens goal attack Tegan Caldwell in the decider, but Queensland fans held their breath on Monday night when McMeniman reeled away clutching her face after a heavy rebounding contest.

The culprit was not one of the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic attackers, but friendly fire from her own captain and good friend Geitz.

Both can laugh about the incident but McMeniman did have to soldier on for 50 minutes with a sore beak.

"I think she was hoping I wouldn't realise it was her," McMeniman said.

"It was all fair, and a big accident. It just shows how dedicated we are to getting those rebounds.

"It was just a bit of blood. It was uncomfortable but nothing I couldn't manage."

Firebirds pair Laura Geitz and Romelda Aiken celebrate beating the Magic on Monday night. Source: Getty Images

McMeniman is one of four Firebirds – the others are Geitz, Romelda Aikan and Ameliaranne Wells – remaining from the 2011 premiership-winning side.

She retired after that grand final, travelled across Europe and intensified the focus on her career as a speech pathologist.

Some gentle encouragement from Geitz, who has known the Warwick product since she was a teenager in neighbouring Allora on the Darling Downs, prompted McMeniman to make a comeback this year.

The 28-year-old wrestled back her goal defence bib from Demelza McCloud and Jacinta Messer, and went within a whisker of selection for the Australian Commonwealth Games team.

Geitz, who was glad she did not leave her mate with a black eye, described McMeniman as the workhorse of the team.

"To play in another grand final with Clare is going to be amazing," Geitz said.

"I love playing with Clare, her passion and determination is just second to none"

"On the court is such an intense personality and does not smile too much but you know when she is out there she gives it her all.

"So I am looking forward to stepping out with her on court again on Sunday, putting out a strong performance and grabbing that premiership, which she obviously came back in search of,'' Geitz said.

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Firebirds miss out on all-star team

Laura Geitz and her Firebirds teammates failed to make the ANZ Championship All-Star team. Source: Jonathon Searle / News Corp Australia

LAURA Geitz has charmed royalty but could not impress netball fans who snubbed the Queensland Firebirds in the ANZ Championship All-Star team.

In the ultimate motivation before Sunday's grand final against the Melbourne Vixens, not one Queenslander made the cut for the team of the year voted on by visitors to the Championship website.

The snubbing mirrors 2011 when the Firebirds were undefeated but only Romelda Aiken made the All-Star selection.

Queensland's mixed start to the season cost the side many of the selected positions.

The consistent Vixens deservedly had Madi Robinson and Geva Mentor in the side.

Queensland and Australia captain Geitz, who in April hosted a function for Prince William and his wife Kate, topped the Trans-Tasman Netball League for intercepts and deflections.

She has won personal duels with netball great Irene van Dyk, Mystics shooter Cathrie Latu and West Coast Fever's Caitlin Bassett, but in her modest style she was more surprised by teammate Kim Ravaillion's omission.

"Everyone has an opinion on these things, but we're not all that interested in stats and awards," Geitz said.

"We're not going to waste any energy on it, and we're happy to keep flying under the radar."

Mentor and Robinson were recognised for their outstanding seasons and it is the third consecutive year the pair has been named at goal keeper and at wing attack in the league's leading seven.

Minor premiers Melbourne Vixens had the equal-most representatives in the team. NSW Swifts also had two named, with Susan Pratley selected at goal attack and Kim Green at centre.

Southern Steel's 198cm Jamaican giant Jhaniele Fowler-Reid got the nod at goal shooter, despite finishing second in the goal scoring at the end of the regular season behind Tactix goaler Mwai Kumwenda, who was yesterday named the competion's best new talent.

Adelaide's Renae Hallinan (wing defence) and Magic's Casey Kopua (goal defence) also retained their positions in the team from last season.

Magic coach Julie Fitzgerald was named All-Star coach after guiding her team to a preliminary final in her first year at the club.

Pratley and Green were the only new inclusions in the team from last season's All-Star seven.

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Ange vows to attack wounded Spain

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A "HEARTBROKEN" Ange Postecoglou insists the Socceroos will go out to attack the deposed world champions Spain in their final World cup match, despite knowing that Australia's heroic defeat to Holland means they will be leaving Brazil next week.

The Australian players were left devastated after giving up a lead against the Dutch and missing chances to have sealed a historic win, despite seeing Tim Cahill score a candidate for the goal of the World Cup.

Mile Jedinak's penalty had given Australia a second-half lead but Holland stole the win when goal-keeper Mat Ryan let a speculative shot go past him late in the second half.

With Spain then losing 2-0 to Chile, it means Holland and Chile go through to the knockout stages, with Spain and Australia playing a dead rubber on Tuesday (AEST) before both depart Brazil early.

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Postecoglou will have to make do against Spain without Cahill, the hero yesterday but whose yellow card means he has played in his last World Cup for his country.

But despite admitting his pain at the result, Postecoglou was adamant that his team would continue to play in the way he has rapidly reshaped them since being appointed last October.

"We will try and win it," Postecoglou said of facing Spain. "Timmy is out but all along I have made mention of players who have missed out.

"We didn't come here today talking about the players who are missing, we talked about the players we put out there.

"We're not going to make any excuses. Timmy is out, somebody else will come in and we'll go at it again and we're going to measure ourselves against the very best in the world.

"Spain are an outstanding team and we want to come off the pitch knowing how far we have come and where we're at.

"So our approach won't change, we want to again go into that game and prove to people that we can play good football against the best in the world."

Ange Postecoglou consoles Tim Cahill after the Socceroos' loss to the Netherlands. Picture: Cameron Spencer. Source: Getty Images

While Cahill's goal — a superlative volley from Ryan McGowan's deep cross — was hailed around the world, Postecoglou was as keen to give credit for his team's overall performance, facing a side that had just thrashed Spain but was itself made to look pedestrian.

"I just wanted the players to get a reward for the way they went about things today," he said. "I put a lot of pressure on the players and the staff that we're going to be a certain type of team.

"They did it today but didn't get a reward which is heartbreaking for them. I'm massively disappointed.

"We came to this World Cup and we are playing against three of the best nations in the world. People were saying we weren't going to score a goal and we would just try and survive and I think in both games we have taken it to the opposition."

In just two games the Socceroos have witnessed key individuals lift their game to unparalleled levels, including Mathew Leckie and Matthew Spiranovic.

Though Cahill wants to play on to January's Asian Cup, most of the side will form the core for the 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign.

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"We have only just started, I firmly believe that," Postecoglou said. "We have only just started on this journey.

"The goal is to come back in four years' time, that they fear us before we get on the pitch as much as they fear us on the pitch now. Because there is no doubt now both Chile and the Dutch know they have been in a game and I think respect the way we have gone about our football."

Describing Cahill as "outstanding", the Australian coach reflected on the cruel moments for two of the younger players: Leckie in missing a golden chance at 2-2, and Ryan for conceding the winner.

"Most of these games are decided on moments and we had our moment where we could have gone 3-2 up," he said. "And we really had momentum at that time of the game.

"So where do you draw the line of whose fault? It's nobody's fault. We win as a team, we lose as a team.

"Maty is very, very disappointed at the moment and he's distraught. But again, he's only a young man, he's starting his journey as a goal-keeper and give me one goal-keeper in the world that doesn't have a moment he's disappointed in."

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Live: Colombia v Ivory Coast

JOIN us for live coverage of the crunch World Cup clash between Colombia and Ivory Coast in Brasilia.

It is a Group C match in which there is everything to gain for two sides who began their World Cup campaigns with victories.

Live: Colombia v Ivory Coast

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Two Vixens who show an eye for goal

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TEGAN Caldwell and Karyn Bailey admit they've come a long way in three years as an attacking combination and they are focused on sealing their partnership with a title win for Melbourne Vixens in Sunday's grand final.

Goal attack Caldwell and goal shooter Bailey have both enjoyed career-best seasons for the Vixens, but it's their union in the goal circle that has continued to flourish to help guide the team to a second grand final in three years.

``It's certainly a partnership that has gone from strength to strength each year,'' Bailey, 27, said.

``I think previously we both got on court and thought how we could play well and we probably didn't necessarily think how we could play well together as a team, but that's something that has come together extremely well in the last couple of years.

``I know with (Tegan) being a bit of a shorter goaler that I need to protect my little one in the circle and she knows that I'm not the fastest goaler either so she does a lot of running around out there while I get to play a little bit further back in the circle.

``We look after each other and we play to each other's strengths and weaknesses. That's one of those things you do as a team.''

Caldwell and Bailey were both a part of the Vixens' line-up that lost the 2012 trans-Tasman title decider to the Magic in their first year together.

It was Bailey's rookie year with the Vixens, while Caldwell was thrust into the starting goal attack's position midway through the 2011 season after champion goaler Sharelle McMahon badly injured her Achilles.

Then Vixens coach Julie Hoornweg conceded after the 2012 title loss to the Magic that the inexperience of the team's attack end, with the pair both playing in their first final series, had showed on the grand final stage.

Caldwell, whose brilliant season this year was rewarded with Australian selection for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, said that experience had helped shape her as a player and she wasn't going to let history repeat in Sunday's grand final against Queensland Firebirds.

``It's obviously an experience that I had and that I don't want to have again so I will be doing everything I can to make sure that doesn't happen again,'' Caldwell, 25, said.

``It's not something that I'll dwell on, but it's there, it happened and I want to learn from that.''

Certainly, Caldwell and Bailey showed no signs of finals nerves in the Vixens' major semi-final win against the Firebirds last week with the pair standing up under pressure against a defence led by Australian captain Laura Geitz.

``We are prepared for it this year, we have definitely matured all over the court now and we have got that experience,'' the 193cm Bailey said.

``It's completely different to what it was two years ago. Two years ago, I was a nervous wreck before the game whereas the semi-final we played I was in the change room going, `Let's go, let's finish this off'.''

Caldwell said the pair now shared a really ''strong connection'' on court and believed their strength as a combination lay in their ability to mix up their play.

``We can have a moving circle or she could be holding and I could be moving around her, we are very dynamic like that,'' Caldwell said.

``I think that can throw the defenders.''

Bailey, however, saw their strength as their ability to both turn and shoot, saying opposition defences could not afford to leave Caldwell roaming the circle.

``I think our strength is that either of us will turn and put the ball up,'' Bailey said.

``Sometimes in a team you will have a really tall shooter and the defenders will double defend them and let that goal attack run around.

``The beauty with Tegan is that you can't afford to do that. She is a deadeye shooter and she will put that ball up anywhere in the circle and if you leave her out there to do that.''

Caldwell's long-range shooting ability is one part of her game that has developed this season and she said there would be no hesitation if she was in the position to shoot the match-winning goal on Sunday.

``If I get the ball I will shoot that goal,'' Caldwell said.

``Wherever I get the ball I know that I want to be able to turn and put it in and know that the team have confidence in my shot.''

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Hodkinson��s moment sums up brave Blues

Trent Hodkinson scored the try than won the game and the series for NSW. Source: Philip Hillyard / News Corp Australia

For 71 minutes on Wednesday night it looked like this was going to be another case of history repeated for NSW. The Blues halves were under attack.

Trent Hodkinson and Josh Reynolds, in their first series, were being overrun by the enthusiasm of their more experienced teammates.

While Daly Cherry-Evans and Johnathan Thurston were involved in every opportunity that went Queensland's way, the Blues appeared in disarray.

Wondering which way to go, what to do next.

Queensland did their best to stop NSW from playing the ball. Source: Getty Images

This had been our biggest problem for the past eight years — and with nine minutes remaining, it appeared as though NSW were heading towards an all too familiar ending.

But then the hero stepped up.

On NSW's fifth straight set in Queensland's territory, the ball went left to Hodkinson — and the man wearing the Blues No 7 jumper took ownership of the match.

BLUES END MAROON'S EIGHT-YEAR STRANGLEHOLD

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Finally Queensland's eight-year reign was over.

But the Blues took a painful path to victory.

The stoush between Beau Scott and Cameron Smith summed up the competition. Source: News Corp Australia

Two Thurston penalty goals had Queensland 4-0 at halftime and only a Josh Reynolds toenail saved the Blues from being 10-0 down at the break.

The Blues tactics to try and put the Maroons off the game actually started before the home team even left their dressing rooms with Queensland made to wait for several minutes before the Blues ran out.

And from there, they took up every chance to try and upset the visitors.

More often than not, Jarryd Hayne found his path blocked by Maroons. Source: News Corp Australia

Robbie Farah pinned a target on Cherry-Evans throughout the first half while over the other side of the field Greg Bird and Beau Scott gave Thurston a good old fashion hammering.

But Queensland weathered the onslaught and by the break they were slowly gaining the upper hand and Thurston and Cherry-Evans were right in the thick of everything they were doing.

In the seconds counting down to halftime Thurston threaded a hole for Justin Hodges to take the ball deep inside Blues territory and from the next play Cherry-Evans grubbered for himself only the quick reaction from Reynolds saved the try.

It was hardly one of the great Origin halves of football but from Queensland's perspective it was a job well done.

Jarryd Hayne's intervention sees Sam Thaiday lose the ball over the try line. Source: Getty Images

Queensland continued to get the better of the chances early in the second half and only desperation save the Blues having two tries put on them.

Hayne knocked the ball out of Sam Thaiday's hands to deny one chance while a Cherry-Evans' crossfield bomb landed in the arms of Brent Tate but this time it was Daniel Tupou who denied the Maroons.

Still 4-0 to Queensland and with a quarter of the match remaining time was running out for the Blues — and with that pressure was mounting.

Going into the final 15 minutes NSW had five straight sets inside Queensland's quarter.

Farah went within inches of scoring, so did Bird. But the problem, the big problem, was the same thing that had been happening all night.

Trent Hodkinson found the gap — and scored the series-winning try. Source: News Corp Australia

The Blues playmakers were overrun by the enthusiasm, and experience.

But finally, in the 71st minute, Hodkinson took the ball, a dummy outside, and off he went, straight past Cherry-Evans for NSW's most crucial try in nine years.

Finally, a NSW halfback finished the hero.

The young man who considered quitting the game not so long ago because of a series of terrible injuries had comeback to write his name in Origin folklore.

The name Trent Hodkinson to be forever remembered as the man who ended eight years of punishment for NSW.

All because he took charge when he had to.

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Blues end eight-year stranglehold

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AFTER eight years of frustration, defeat and heartache, the NSW Blues delivered Queensland a message on behalf of the state: Nobody beats NSW nine times in a row.

Yes, it is over.

The air tastes better. The workday doesn't seem as long. The traffic isn't as bad. We can even eat a banana again without reflected guilt.

MATCH REPORT: FULL GAME DETAILS AND STATS

Paul Gallen and Robbie Farah at full time. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

Jarryd Hayne celebrates after running into the crowd at full time. Picture: Bradley Hunter Source: News Corp Australia

Queensland's eight-year dominance is over after NSW claimed an unassailable 2-0 lead by beating Queensland 6-4 in a dour match at ANZ Stadium, sending the series to a dead rubber in Brisbane in three weeks.

It ends one of the most remarkable winning streaks in modern sport.

Josh Reynolds celebrates victory. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

Dejected Maroons at full time. Picture: Peter Wallis Source: News Corp Australia

Jarryd Hayne celebrates. Picture: Bradley Hunter Source: News Corp Australia

But not before the Blues almost made the fatal mistake they promised themselves they would not make: playing not to lose, instead of playing to win.

In the end, it was a surprising show-and-go from halfback Trent Hodkinson in the 72nd minute that broke the drought.

Hodkinson shaped to pass but held the ball and the defence opened up, sending him over to give the Blues their historic win.

Beau Scott chokes Cameron Smith. Picture: Peter Wallis Source: News Corp Australia

Beau Scott and Cameron Smith face off. Picture: Brett Costello Source: News Corp Australia

Cameron Smith and Beau Scott scuffle. Picture: Peter Wallis Source: News Corp Australia

The win was seen around the world, but nobody would have appreciated it

And it was seen around the world.

As broadcaster Alan Jones sat in the Queensland coaching box, Alex McKinnon left his hospital bed at Royal North Shore to watch from a corporate box, with coach Wayne Bennett and broadcaster Ray Hadley beside him.

Yet the match reached beyond that, going to countries as far away as the USA, Great Britain, France and the Middle East.

Josh Reynolds hammers Johnathan Thurston as he gets a kick away. Picture: Mark Evans Source: News Corp Australia

Josh Reynolds lays a late hit on Johnathan Thurston. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

Even the home of soccer's World Cup, Brazil, beamed the game in.

And it is only natural to wonder what some of those people in many of those countries, flicking through the channels unable to sleep, unfamiliar with this game called State of Origin, would have made of the game.

It was brutal.

Two sides who for much of the first half didn't really care much for the ball at all.

They simply ran into each other, playing smashmouth football, all through the middle. And then they wrestled and niggled and postured, as if they were about to start a fight ... but then stopping.

Greg Inglis on the charge. Picture: Brett Costello Source: News Corp Australia

It was all very strange, the by-product being it failed to match the grand heights of game one.

Early on, the Blues revealed their intention to knock down every Queenslander that kicked a ball.

Robbie Farah knocked down Daly Cherry-Evans with Michael Jennings' assistance.

Another small wrestle took place, Jennings holding his knee on Cherry-Evans to keep him down.

"That knee to the face was pretty poor," Nate Myles told the referees shortly after.

He was only offering help, given a chance after Greg Bird was penalised for an odd tackle where Aidan Guerra's leg was hooked over his back and Bird was unable to shake it.

The penalty gave Queensland a 2-0 lead with Johnathan Thurston's penalty goal.

Niggle continued to dominate.

Greg Inglis during a melee. Source: Getty Images

Later in the half James Tamou crashed down on Myles, dropping his forearm.

Myles then threw a punch - breaking the NRL's no punch edict - but the referees ruled Tamou's forearm justified the retaliation and gave Queensland the penalty.

"Are you going to penalise every tackle now?" asked Paul Gallen.

"The forearm came first," referee Shayne Hayne said.

Sam Thaiday drops the ball over the line. Picture: Mark Evans Source: News Corp Australia

While there is little doubt it was intended to apply subtle pressure on the referees, Gallen had a point.

Why rule now?

Thurston's penalty gave Queensland a 4-0 lead but also saw him break Mal Meninga's Origin point scoring record of 161, taking him to 162.

NEW SOUTH WALES 6 (T Hodkinson try T Hodkinson goal) bt QUEENSLAND 4 (J Thurston 2 goals) at ANZ Stadium. Referee: Shayne Hayne, Ben Cummins. Crowd: 83,421.

Game 1: NSW 12 bt QLD 8

Game 2: NSW 6 bt QLD 4

Series: NSW take series 2-0, with dead rubber to come

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Skelton almost joined Auckland Blues

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NEW Wallaby Will Skelton said he came "pretty close" to accepting a brazen approach from Sir John Kirwan last year to join his boyhood club, the Auckland Blues, and walk a path toward All Black selection.

But Skelton's decision to reject the offer has him poised to win a spot in next month's opening Bledisloe Cup wearing Wallaby gold, and facing the haka instead of performing it.

After being selected to make his Test debut on Tuesday, Skelton spoke about his decision between playing for NSW or returning to the city of his birth to play for Auckland.

As revealed in the Daily Telegraph in March, Skelton was sounded out by Kirwan and later met with the former All Black and ex-New Zealand coach Graham Henry in Sydney.

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Bold as brass, Kirwan first approached the then 20-year-old while he was standing next to the Waratahs' team bus following a trial against the Blues in Whangerai.

"After we played that trial he came out ... and said: "Mate, we're interested if you're interested in having a chat to play for the Blues"," Skelton said.

Skelton later sat down with Kirwan and Henry in Sydney but even though he'd yet to play a Super Rugby game, decided he wanted to stay in NSW.

"We had meetings and I felt NSW was the place I needed to be," he said.

Will Skelton holds Wally the Wallaby at training while alongside Israel Folau and Bernard Foley. Source: News Corp Australia

"It was close, it was a tough decision but I am happy I stuck with NSW.

"I am from Auckland, and I still have a piece of my heart that goes for the Blues. Actually, that's gone away. Cheik doesn't like that.

"I am Waratahs through and through.

"My family lives here, my girlfriend is here and the culture we are building at NSW … is really crazy, and I feel I am a part of that culture.

"I have been here since I was 10, so I consider Australia my home. I'll be privileged to wear the gold jersey."

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Skelton, whose cousin Brad Mika played for the All Blacks, first popped on the Waratahs radar when in 2010 he took part in a Daily Telegraph photo shoot which highlighted the Hills Sports High Rugby forward pack being bigger than the NSW pack. Skelton was 150kg at the time.

After joining Sydney University, he rose through the Australian Rugby Union academy before being spotted by Michael Cheika at an opposed training session in late 2012 and invited to spend time with the Waratahs' senior squad.

Only a few months later Kirwan made his approach at Whangerai.

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History says: Socceroos 3, Holland 0

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BEFORE Guus Hiddink used his contacts to arrange a pre-World Cup friendly in 2006, Australia and the Dutch had never met. Thanks to the ongoing links since then there have been three friendlies in total - and as Holland coach Louis van Gaal likes to note, Australia are yet to lose.

MORE SOCCEROOS PREVIEW NEWS

Holland 0-0 Australia

June 4 2006, De Kuip Stadium, Rotterdam

With Holland ahead through Ruud van Nistelroy's 10th mnute strike, and the Dutch in impressive form, the Socceroos were holding on for a long period. But Luke Wilkshire's brutal tackle on Giovanni van Bronckhorst seemed to upset the home side's rhythm, and Australia earned a penalty in the second half. Mark Viduka's spotkick hit the bar, but Tim Cahill buried the rebound.

Socceroos Brett Emerton (L) and Giovanni van Bronckhorst. Source: News Limited

Soccerroos coach Guus Hiddink chats with fans following Australia's training session. Source: News Corp Australia

Holland 1-2 Australia

September 6 2008, Philips Stadium, Eindhoven

Once again the Dutch took the lead, and once again they were apparently in control. But Josh Kennedy spied an errant back pass and was brought down by goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg, earning the latter a red card. Luke Wilkshire converted the penalty, and late in the game Kennedy popped up to head home Wilkshire's cross. As a warm-up to a World Cup qualifier in Uzbekistan days later, it couldn't have been better.

Australia's coach Pim Verbeek reacts from the sideline during the friendly match. Source: AP

Australia 0-0 Holland

October 10 2009, SFS, Sydney

Easily the dreariest of the three games between the two countries, a conservative Socceroos side under Dutch coach Pim Verbeek essentially ground out a result as a practice run in case they drew a top European nation at the following year's World Cup. (In the event of course they got Germany, and were smashed 4-0.)

Giovanni van Bronckhorst denies Brett Holman the ball. Source: News Limited

Visiting Dutch journalists were not impressed with the home side's prosaic tactics, one muttering: "I don't know what it is, but it's not Dutch football."

Socceroos captain Lucas Neill (R) clashes with Klaas Jan Huntelaar (L). Source: AFP

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Foley set to keep role for Bledisloe

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EWEN McKenzie looks set to roll into Bledisloe Cup battle next month with Bernard Foley as the Wallabies' five-eighth general after deciding to stick with Kurtley Beale as an impact player from the bench.

McKenzie revealed the selections yesterday as he also declared the Wallabies' attacking philosophies and hunger for tries hadn't changed a skerrick despite the dour 6-0 win over France in the second Test.

Despite being a sign the Wallabies' maturing into a team with the willpower to beat New Zealand, the style of the second win has come under criticism in some quarters for being "safety first" and boring.

McKenzie said a review of the Test had given more perspective on how to crack through the smothering French tactics, should the tourists elect to roll them out again in Sydney, and score enough points to encourage the French to pack up mentally and begin holidays early.

"There were lots of moments were we could done things, subtly, different. One more pass or a slightly different support line, you get a different outcome," McKenzie said.

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"We can make those adjustments. Whatever they come back at us with, we have seen a fair bit from tactically. We will deal with whatever turns up."

McKenzie said the side — who scored seven tries in Brisbane and has over 3.5 tries a game since he took over — would always endeavour to win games by posting as many five-pointers as possible.

"We are never not going out there to score tries, so I don't want people to be confused. The opposition has something to do with that, so you have to deal with whatever comes along," McKenzie said.

"We didn't take the best options at times (in Melbourne), we weren't direct enough at times, we weren't patient enough at times. There were things we can do better.

"We will just keep going. We haven't changed our philosophy one bit, from last year to now, from last week, the week before or this week, the philosophy remains the same."

Bernard Foley takes on the line during the Wallabies' 6-0 win over France in the second Test. Source: Getty Images

Given he has looked sharp in two late-game cameos, moving Beale into No.10 was an option to reignite the attack.

But McKenzie said his selection team had stuck with the option of pumping experience into six-Test newcomer Foley instead.

"We have continue to invest time in the guys who have been picked in the back line," McKenzie said.

"KB (Beale) does a good job changing the nature of the game, particularly late when everyone is a bit tired. We will certainly be looking to give him more and more time.

"If you go and look through the cap listing, apart from Adam Ashley-Cooper, the experience in the back line, there isn't that much. We are investing that time.

"The guys on the bench have the experience, so I guess we know a lot more and those guys have experienced those environments already."

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It’s a brothers grim fairytale

Paul Gallen and Greg Bird plan on lifting the State of Origin shield of the first time. Picture: Gregg Porteous. Source: Gregg Porteous / News Corp Australia

GREG Bird is standing in front of 17 faces, choking back tears.

The room is quiet. Bird is glad he came prepared.

In his right hand, the NSW tough guy holds scribbled notes he had penned all alone the night before.

Bird might be one of the most ruthless players ever to pull on a Blues jersey, but beneath the purple bruises he wears each week and the hardened exterior is a 29-year-old, who given the occasion, can sob like a six-year-old.

Somehow, the heavy lump in his throat is keeping the tears from spilling free.

Bird isn't sure why NSW coach Laurie Daley had asked him to present the jersey to every player just hours before kick-off to Origin I three weeks ago in Brisbane.

He didn't even consider asking why. He just said yes.

And so here is, inside a conference room of the Sofitel Hotel on the day of the game, offering a heartfelt, short sentence to describe how he feels about every player, before calling them forward and handing them their pride and joy — the NSW jumper.

"There was nothing funny, I didn't make any jokes. They were all serious,'' explains Bird, who missed Origin I due to suspension.

Greg Bird will leave everything on the field in Origin II. Picture: Gregg Porteous. Source: News Corp Australia

"I thought about saying something that would help the guys and give them something to think about, give them a little pat on the back and hopefully try to bring out the best in them.''

Eventually, Bird gets to his mate. Paul Gallen. The NSW captain.

The last speech Bird made for Gallen was a toast at the Cronulla skipper's wedding two years ago.

But instead of a schooner, Bird is holding the jersey Gallen will wear in one of the most courageous victories in NSW Origin history.

"G-Train: Fearless leader. One of my best mates, he's always there to help you. Keep an eye on this guy during the match, take a leaf from his book and we'll beat these c….''

Telling this story to The Daily Telegraph in the days prior to tonight's blockbuster in Sydney, Bird still gets emotional.

The NSW forward admits that he and Gallen have been through so much together over the past 12 years.

They arrived on the Origin scene virtually together.

Both with a thud.

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Gallen made his NSW debut in game three of the 2006 series, a match that Queensland won in Melbourne 16-14 on the bell.

Bird's debut came in game two of the 2007 series. He was named man of the match.

Teammates at the Sharks, they were quickly tagged the "Bruise Brothers" when they came together for NSW such was their fearless desire to inflict pain on the Maroons.

Immortal and NSW selector Bob Fulton quickly declared the pair as the future of NSW.

Eight years on and they are the heart and soul of the team and the state.

But much to their great despair, all of their incredible heart and passion has resulted in no Origin glory. The only bar-room photo they share is a picture of the close mate's holding up last year's World Cup.

In the eyes of two of rugby league's fiercest competitors, it's not enough.

"At Cronulla, when me and Gal played together, we were close a couple of times to grand finals,'' Bird says.

The Blues will follow the lead of inspirational captain Paul Gallen. Picture: Gregg Porteous. Source: News Corp Australia

"But then with the Origin career we've had and the dominance Queensland have had in our era, there's not a great deal of silverware floating around.

"We've got the World Cup and that's probably about it, between us.

"So this is an opportunity, victory means a lot.

"When you put in so much effort and me and him tend to play a similar style of football, playing as hard as you can and leaving everything out on the paddock, to come away after 10-15 years with nothing, it is hard."

"But we've got an opportunity now. It's not our right that we get this on Wednesday, it's something we have to work towards.

"I think we're in a position where finally we can have something.''

Gallen still remembers the feeling after tasting his first Origin defeat in 2006.

The rookie bench forward that year recalls the blank stares throughout the dressing rooms and the question that went unanswered from the Blues' most high-profile player, Willie Mason, who asked: "Is this like losing a grand final?''

That awful feeling is what will drive the captain on Wednesday.

The irony can't missed then, as
Bird reflects on what will propel him towards ending eight years of Origin agony.

Like his best mate Gallen, he will use the memories of shattered faces last year to steel him for the most important match of his life.

"Last year was hard, I thought that was the best opportunity we had to win it,'' Bird says.

"We probably weren't at our best and we lost and over the eight years, I think I've been
involved in six of them, it was probably the hardest to stomach.

"We're in the exact same position where we are today. Leading 1-0. We need to be better.

"A lot of those guys that played that game can take the feeling afterwards, the emptiness, that we felt after the game and that opportunity we didn't take.

"We can't let that happen again. Gal won't want to let that happen again.

"Instead of hugging each other in defeat, we want to be hugging a shield together.''

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Why we needed Schu to pull through

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IT'S the duty of a sports journalist to hope for the best while also, quietly, preparing for the worst.

Happily, these best laid plans are sometimes destined to remain in their folder gathering dust.

Thousands upon thousands of words, deliberated over, mulled on, then carefully chosen, yet never to be seen by the public unless the very worst happens.

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SCHUMACHER NEWS TRENDS WORLDWIDE ON TWITTER

And so, last New Year's Eve, I found myself writing an obituary for Michael Schumacher.

It was my first obituary — sadly, likely not my last — and the most challenging piece I've ever had to write.

I didn't grow up in a pro-Schumacher household. He was the black cap, the villain, the man who tried to win by any means and at any cost. However, as I grew into adulthood, those feelings would fade.

Schumacher in 2012 after a test drive prior to an exhibition race in Bangkok, Thailand. Source: AP

I began to appreciate that I was privileged to witness a rarity in all of sport. A legend in his own time.

Yet those days where he used the hard edge of his genius as a weapon still lingered, overshadowing his tremendous feats.

The healing that would have allowed Schumacher to become a truly revered elder statesman of our sport, beloved by all and not just his fans, was still a work in progress at the time of his accident.

As I struggled to write, the memories came flooding back, aided by snippets of old races.

The man in Mercedes silver who, at age 43, took pole at Monaco over rivals half his age. The man who rewrote Formula 1's record books in red ink. The rising star in the yellow car who was clearly the Next Big Thing.

The University Hospital of the Canton of Vaud in Switzerland where Schumacher has been moved. Source: AFP

And the boyish German in Jordan's emerald green overalls with the cheeky grin and a glint in the eye that let you know that he knew just how good he was.

It is these memories we all turned to in the waning days of last December as the true enormity of Schumacher's condition emerged.

They drove the mass outpouring of grief, tinged with hope, at the realisation that none of us were ready to lose a man many of us grew up with.

It was this global display that made us realise just how truly beloved Michael Schumacher is.

Schumacher racing at Spa during the 1994 Belgium Grand Prix. Source: Supplied

The tragedy was the thought that Michael would perhaps never know this, a depth of feeling more personal than the adulation afforded him at the peak of his powers by the Tifosi.

With news of his emergence from his coma comes renewed hope.

A hope that he will learn that his time spent in limbo has healed all wounds.

A hope that, one day, we will all be able to tell him in person what his career and life has meant to us.

And a hope that my words, so meticulously chosen, will remain unread for many years to come.

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Hyland: Modern style behind falls

Chad Schofield was hospitalised for several days after fracturing his vertebrae in a nasty fall at Cranbourne. Picture: Mark Stewart Source: Mark Stewart / News Corp Australia

MELBOURNE CUP-winning jockey Pat Hyland wants riders to drastically change their riding style, urging them to go back to the way horses were once ridden.

Hyland believes the current style adopted by the majority of jockeys, who ride with only the ball of their feet or toes on the stirrup iron, is dangerous and has contributed to falls recently.

The 72-year-old trainer, who still rides some of his gallopers in track work at Cranbourne, said the jockeys should return to the old style of having their feet completely in the irons to give them leverage and more control over their horses.

Pat Hyland, with Lloyd Williams at Breakfast with the Best at Moonee Valley in 2008, is worried the toes-in-the-irons style used by riders such as Glen Boss is increasing the likelihood of bad falls. Picture: Jay Town Source: News Limited

He has been sickened by recent race falls, most recently at Cranbourne two weeks ago when three jockeys were injured, including Chad Schofield who will be sidelined for several months with a neck injury.

"When I learnt to ride my boss told me that your legs are as important as are your arms and now they don't use their legs because they are on their tiptoes in the irons and you have these kids being taught to ride like that or want to ride like that," Hyland said.

"I don't think that professional jockeys should be allowed to ride with their toes in the irons, but I've spoken to stewards about it and they don't seem to be bothered about it."

Pat Hylans says Sydney jockey Hugh Bowman is one of the few jockeys who rides with his feet fully in the irons. Source: Supplied

Hyland, whose long list of successes as a jockey included riding What a Nuisance to victory in the 1985 Melbourne Cup, said that Sydney jockey Hugh Bowman is one of the few jockeys who rides with his feet fully in the irons.

"I've never known in my time in racing so many jockeys that have been killed or maimed as they have been over the past five or six years," Hyland said.

"It's a dreadful thing and they are all falling and they are having neck and head injuries — every one of them."

Hyland said he made no secret of the his concerns with jockeys and says he has told "every bloody one of them".

He asked whether past champion jockeys, including Roy Higgins, Jack Purtell and Bill Williamson, were that bad by riding with their feet in the irons that the style had to be changed.

"When you want to fix something you have to go to the problem," he said.

"You can't get someone else to fix it.

"When we used to fall, back in my day and I can only quote that, you never fell from a horse's height. If you clipped heels and a horse went down, you went down to the ground with it and then fell off or it tipped you off. But these blokes are getting tipped off from a height and blokes are going out the barriers losing an iron and falling off.''

Hyland said would have so much more control if they rode with feet in the irons and a shorter rein.

"You would then be in absolute control of the animal," he said.

"You have to stabilise yourself and you can't stabilise yourself on your big toe I don't understand jockeys who are getting on a bit, why they are also doing it."

With his feet firmly in the stirrups, champion jockey Hugh Bowman sets alight Criterion to win the ATC Australian Derby at Royal Randwick. Picture: Simon Bullard Source: Supplied

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Hunt, O’Connor to rescue the Reds?

Will we see James O'Connor wearing Maroon next season? Picture: Steve Bardens Source: Steve Bardens / News Corp Australia

UNITING Karmichael Hunt and James O'Connor is the secret plan to reinvigorate the Reds backline with a potent double whammy next year.

The Gold Coast-raised O'Connor seems certain to play for Queensland, as his last chance saloon in Australia, with his strong desire to push for World Cup selection.

With the Wallabies in desperate need of pacy wingers, finding O'Connor a Super Rugby club is of critical national interest too.

Sources indicate Hunt has ruled out any move to a Sydney NRL club and wants to stay in southeast Queensland with his young family when his AFL career finishes at the Gold Coast Suns.

Karmichael Hunt has been linked to the Reds and Brisbane Broncos. Picture: Adam Head. Source: News Corp Australia

With Hunt's old Brisbane Broncos club always fighting salary cap limitations, rugby's Reds have an appeal that the Gold Coast Titans cannot match.

At just 27, Hunt could dive into a two-year deal with the Reds and reignite a possible pathway into the rugby riches of Europe or Japan for 2017 and beyond.

It is an exciting long-term career journey, not into the unknown but a lifestyle he and now-wife Emma lapped up in 2009-10 with French rugby club Biarritz.

Hunt's manager David Riolo yesterday declined to confirm whether the Reds had made a formal offer.

"There's stuff going on everywhere so I don't want to complicate things by speculating," Riolo said.

He was more willing to bite with a laugh when told Wallabies pin-up Israel Folau last month said Hunt would be "a great buy for the Reds and would fit in straight away."

"I respect Izzy's view. I wouldn't argue with it," Riolo said.

With Rod Davies (Biarritz) and Aidan Toua (Agen) signing for French clubs and three-Test finisher Dom Shipperley also leaving, the Reds have created openings for a top winger-fullback duo to enliven their playing squad.

When asked if Hunt and O'Connor were both recruitment targets, Queensland Rugby Union chief executive Jim Carmichael offered a straight bat.

"Despite speculation regarding our player retention, I reiterate we will announce the full picture at the appropriate time," Carmichael said.

"However, our fans can be assured we identified and addressed our recruitment priorities within the squad some time ago and are now well positioned for 2015 and beyond."

Signing O'Connor and Hunt would transform the wow factor at the club which cannot head into a new season relying on the Will Genia-Quade Cooper double act to sell the club yet again.

Coming to watch how the dynamic halves unlock the sparkle of new recruits O'Connor and Hunt

would be a powerful marketing tool.

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What you missed on TV last night

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ESSENDON coach Mark Thompson conceded his players could be seduced by ASADA's offer of six-month penalties with an early admission of guilt.

ASADA chief Ben McDevitt in yesterday's Herald Sun urged players to consider their own interests and cooperate with the anti-doping body's probe.

McDevitt said players could potentially serve six-month bans this season and during the following pre-season, leaving them to start fresh in Round 1 2015.

"Some people might think that maybe that's the way out, just get it over and done with," Thompson said during his regular segment on the AFL 360.

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"Some might just think no, I don't want to talk about any guilt at all, that I wasn't guilty, I want to be found not guilty — I didn't cheat."

Thompson said he hoped the players made the most of last night's briefings with the legal experts.

"They'd want to get some good advice, they'd want to ask every question that they had on their mind."

Gerard's view was the players shouldn't fear the show-cause notices, while Robbo posed the question of what would happen if the Bombe0rs went against Essendon and accepted McDevitt's offer.

"Both sides (ASADA and Essendon) have got legal advice that they're in strong positions," he said. "I'm wondering who's bluffing."

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Thompson, joined by Melbourne coach Paul Roos, also discussed Sunday's one-point loss to the Demons.

"We're doing a fair bit right but we just did some basics wrong," he said. "We wasted so many opportunities going forward."

Roos played down his side's memorable victory.

"We dodged a massive bullet," he said. "We were lucky at half-time.

"I think the worst times in coaching is when you know you're dominating the game and you're kicking points. It's a shocking feeling."

Both coaches paid tribute to Demon Christian Salem's calmness under pressure to slot the winning goal.

"You're never 100 per cent confident but I was happy it was in his hands," Roos said.

"He's got a really efficient kicking style ... I was actually really confident because of the fact his motion is so compact if he can get the external stuff out then functionally he would be really sound over that kick."

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AFL 360 opened with the feel good stories of Round 13 — Melbourne's and the Western Bulldogs' against-the-odds victories.

Robbo said the Bulldogs' win stemmed from a combination of effort and a functioning forward line.

"It wasn't a flash in the pan, it was a long period of sustained football that got them in a position where Collingwood couldn't come back," he said.

"You can get the ball inside 50 as much as you like but if you don't capitalise you can't win."

Gerard said the performance showed the Bulldogs were on the right track.

"This is everything that Brendan McCartney is going to grow them into," he said.

On Melbourne, Gerard said the Demons showed great spirit to not only get back in the contest but respond after being headed when David Zaharakis slotted consecutive late goals.

Robbo highlighted Demon Tom McDonald's decision and "courage" to look inside when the ball was in dispute on the wing.

Brisbane star Jonathan Brown was subbed out with concussion. Picture: Jono Searle Source: News Corp Australia

In brief ...

Jonathan Brown: Robbo urged Brisbane Lions champion to retire after his latest concussion.

"It's so hard to walk away from the game but I think Jonathan Brown: You've done enough for this club. You don't have to keep breaking your body," he said. "I'm sick of seeing you getting carried off the ground ... you've left at that club what you've got, there's nothing more to give."

Dan Hannebery: The Swans is set to be sidelined for about four weeks after damaging ligaments in his ankle. Robbo and Gerard agreed it would be a big blow for the Swans as Hannebery was in great form.

Good Friday Footy: It's on, but we don't know who is involved or where the game is being held.

Essendon chairman Paul Little is taking up the fight for the Bombers. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

ON THE COUCH — Fox Footy

ESSENDON was on the agenda with On The Couch host Gerard Healy urging players to speak to ASADA directly.

Healy said "mixed information" was making it hard for players to make the right decision about their futures.

"If I was a player I would be desperately seeking an audience with [ASADA chief] Ben McDevitt," Healy said.

"I'd say Ben, tell us what you've got because we need to address this situation."

Healy issued a firm warning to Essendon in light of the club's Federal Court battle against show-cause notices.

"Heaven help the Essendon Football Club if he (chairman Paul Little) gets it wrong."

The 1988 Brownlow medallist dismissed talk Jobe Watson should lose his medal if he was to accept a ban.

"If I was on the panel I'd say keep your Brownlow Medal."

While respected AFL journalist Mike Sheahan was not sold on reduced bans, Hawthorn champion Jason Dunstall said he couldn't live with the prospect of players getting punished.

"I don't believe the players have done anything wrong," Dunstall said.

Special guest Jarryd Roughead said in-form Sydney superstar Lance Franklin was benefiting now from extended breaks during the off-season.

"He's in very good form ... it was very enjoyable to watch on the weekend," Roughead said.

The All Australian said despite injuries to key players the Hawks remained in a "pretty good spot" with a 9-2 record.

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In brief ...

Dunstall on Lance Franklin: "They go loudest and more feral when Buddy gets the ball ... they've adopted him very quickly."

Sheahan on Joe Daniher: "He's spraying them everywhere ... Lloydy needs to go out there and help with his left-foot kicking."

Sheahan on Sydney's late changes: It was risky to leave Mike Pyke out against Matthew Lobbe — one of the best ruckman in the game.

Dunstall on Port Adelaide: "They can go as far as they believe they can which I believe is all the way. If Lobbe goes down they're probably in a little bit of trouble."

Sheahan on Tom Scully: "Tom Scully is always not going to be as good as his price tag but he's getting better."

Demons young gun Christian Salem celebrates kicking the winning goal. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

Dunstall on Christian Salem: "Love a young kid taking the moment."

Panel on Adam Treloar: The GWS young gun has flown under the radar putting up elite numbers in disposals, contested possessions, clearances and tackles. Trealor is rated above average in score involvements and pressure acts.

Dunstall on North Melbourne: "They've done it to me again ... just when you're nearly convinced that they're genuine they do that (get beat badly) to you."

Sheahan on North Melbourne: Drew Petrie has had half a good game, Aaron Black is no where near where we wanted him to be this year. They've got a lot of good types in the midfield, maybe it would pay to have one great one.

FOOTY CLASSIFIED — Channel Nine

Sorry, but MORE Essendon.

The panel discussed the prospect of players being offered reduced bans for cooperating with ASADA.

Host Garry Lyon said he would need more evidence before making a decision.

Craig Hutchison was of the opinion if ASADA had enough evidence to issue show-cause notices then it was in the players' best interests to take reduced bans to put an end to the saga.

Matthew Lloyd rejected Hutchy's sentiments asking if he would plead guilty to a crime he didn't commit.

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Cahill our best ever Roo by a head

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TIMMY Cahill is the centre of much debate in Brazil among the thousands of Australian fans following the Socceroos … is he now our greatest player of all-time.

Certainly no other Aussie has scored goals at three World Cups but it's a big call considering we have produced champions like Mark Viduka and Harry Kewell among other greats.

Fox Sports commentator and former team mate Mark Bosnich is now convinced Cahill is the best of them all.

He was convinced the moment our 34-year-old super striker inspired the Socceroos stirring comeback with the magnificent header against Chile on Saturday morning.

"Three years ago I said Harry Kewell," Bosnich said, "He'd won the Champions League along with everything else he's achieved.

"But if we're talking about Australia's greatest right now, it has to be Tim Cahill. You can't beat anyone who has scored goals at the last three World Cups.

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"To do it against the best players and best teams in the world is just a phenomenal performance."

Like most others, Bosnich was absolutely blown away by the Australian fightback.

"At two-nil down after 14 minutes I feared for the worst like everyone else," he said.

"The vast majority of teams around the world would have just capitulated.

"That fighting spirit is just part of Australia's DNA. They were outstanding."

Bosnich's Fox Sports colleague Andy Harper says he is uncomfortable comparing the greats described Cahill as: "just a freak of nature."

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A-LEAGUE OF IT'S OWN

The Socceroos' magnificent performance against Chile was a wonderful advertisement for the A- League competition.

All but two of the Australia's players are products of our domestic competition that is just nine years old.

Only the great Tim Cahill and Jason Davidson began their careers overseas.

The rest of the team plus Ange Postecoglou's entire coaching staff come from A-League clubs.

Socceroos have strong links to the A-League. Source: News Corp Australia

Three of the Socceroos players are still playing in our domestic competition.

While the local competition will never, ever be the quality of the major European or South American competitions, it has come a long way as the main breeding ground for the Socceroos.

SOCCEROOS A 'MERRIN'

Brazil has a population of 200 million with only one football code and virtually no opposition from rival sports.

Australia has a population of less than 25 million with four football codes competing for the best athletes.

It shows just how much the Socceroos are punching above their weight at the World Cup.

We visited the headquarters of Rio de Janeiro's oldest soccer team, the Fluminense Football Club.

They have 600,000 football club members and are not even the biggest club in the country.

HITTING THE WRITE NOTE

The warring factions of the rugby league media of the last few decades are a far cry from the happenings in the Socceroos host city of Vitoria where up to 50 media personnel have been living in harmony during the World Cup in Brazil, thanks to the efforts of FFA media boss Kyle Patterson and his team.

David Gallop hosted drinks for the media on Saturday night to watch the England v Italy clash and according to all accounts everyone got one well.

It's a far cry from some Dally M medal nights that your correspondent and Gallop have seen over the years.

David Gallop is running a smooth ship in Brazil. Picture: George Salpigtidis. Source: News Corp Australia

LATE NIGHT BLUES

The Socceroos have been travelling by charter flights to each of their games. After their cruel loss to Chile the team arrived back in Vitoria at 3am and wouldn't have hit the sack until well after that.

I am told that FFA boss David Gallop and Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou were the first to breakfast bright and early the next morning, no doubt having had a sleepless few hours thinking of how close to a historic win their young team had bravely gone.

HIGHLIGHT

Being here for the greatest show on earth. The passion and atmosphere at the games, at live sites and on the streets is just out of this world.

LOWLIGHT

We miss the live State of Origin coverage on Wednesday night because our two-hour flight to the Socceroos next game in Porto Alegre is right on kick-off time.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Food prices at the Socceroos game in Cuiaba and at all World Cup games are far more reasonable than at venues in Australia.

A beer costs $5.50, a hamburger $5 and soft drinks or water $3.

ADDED EXTRAS

The Socceroos are on $50,000-a-game for this tournament, which is a much better pay rate than the State of Origin stars who get $30,000 for each match.

And Australian soccer officials will only get around $4 million from the tournament while FIFA is expected to pocket $2 billion in profits.

NAMING FOOL

Dave "Benji Barba" Smith and John "Cronulla Hawks" Grant should send a sympathy card to PM Tony "Mike Jedinak" Abbott.

Still the PM shouldn't feel too bad — at least he isn't in charge of the game.

FREE KICK

Another round of footy and another weekend that the NRL has just handed over to rival codes.

The Swans got their fourth biggest crowd at the SCG and everyone was raving about the Socceroos.

At the same time best 34 players in rugby league were unavailable for their clubs. It's outrageously stupid.

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Gajdosova wins wildcard into Wimbledon

Jarmila Gajdosova will be one of eight Australians at Wimbledon after being awarded the final wildcard. Source: Matthias Hangst / Getty Images

JARMILA Gajdosova has sensationally claimed the final women's singles wildcard into Wimbledon with a brilliant display at the Nottingham Challenger.

Stricken with illness for much of last season, world No.223 Gajdosova destroyed third seed and world No.95 Timea Bacsinszky 6-2 6-2 in the singles decider to earn the last main draw invitation to the All England Club.

The right-hander's effort leaves Australia with a minimum of eight singles contenders at Wimbledon next week.

The others are Sam Stosur, Casey Dellacqua, Lleyton Hewitt, Marinko Matosevic, Bernard Tomic, Matt Ebden and Nick Kyrgios, who also clinched a Wimbledon wildcard by winning the Nottingham Challenger.

Gajdosova completed an incredible day by partnering fellow Victorian Arina Rodionova to a 7-6 (9-7) 6-1 doubles triumph over Paraguay's Veronica Cepede Royg and Liechtenstein's Stephanie Vogt.

Several other Wimbledon aspirants will sign on for qualifying at Roehampton on Monday, including Sam Groth and Ash Barty.

Defending champions Barty and Casey Dellacqua on Saturday night failed to defend the Aegon Classic doubles crown, falling 7-6 (7-1) 6-1 to Raquel Kops-Jones and Abigail Spears.

Tomic and Stosur will contest the Eastbourne International at Eastbourne this week, while Edben travels to 's-hertogenbosch for the Topshelf Open in the Netherlands.

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Beckenbauer pledges to help in probe

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GERMAN football great Franz Beckenbauer, who has been suspended for 90 days by FIFA, said on Sunday he will co-operate with a probe into Qatar's bid for the 2022 World Cup by June 27.

"Franz Beckenbauer on Saturday wrote to FIFA and said he will respond to the inquiry of the ethics commission no later than June 27," said a statement released by his agent.

Beckenbauer added he would respond to the allegations in German having argued that his initial reluctance to co-operate was based on his failure to grasp English legal jargon.

His agent said that the former German captain, coach and member of FIFA's executive committee expected "the sanction imposed against him would be immediately lifted".

FIFA president Sepp Blatter and Franz Beckenbauer seen at the 2010 U20 Women's World Cup final. Source: AP

Beckenbauer cancelled a planned trip to the World Cup in Brazil after being banned by FIFA, media reported Saturday.

The 68-year-old said he would not feel welcome in Brazil after being hit with the 90-day suspension.

Beckenbauer, who was a member of the FIFA executive board in 2010 when the votes were cast to award Russia the 2018 World Cup finals and Qatar the 2022 edition, had originally planned to go to Brazil for the semi-finals.

Beckenbauer refused to cooperate with Michael Garcia, the former US federal prosecutor who headed an investigation in the votes for the Qatar vote and another that awarded the 2018 World Cup to Russia.

The Kaiser raises the World Cup trophy after leading West Germany to victory over the Dutch in 1974. Source: AP

In an interview with Bild last week, Beckenbauer said he had nothing to hide, but complained that Garcia had refused to pose his questions in a language he understood.

"I was ready to answer all pertinent questions, but they sent them to me in a legal English that I could not understand in such a complex case," he told Bild.

Beckenbauer said he had a right to keep his FIFA vote in 2010 secret.

But he added: "People with a memory will remember that I declared just after (the vote) that the choice of Qatar surprised me. And I was one of the first to say that a World Cup over there was impossible and that it would have to be played in winter."

According to British media reports, quoting thousands of emails linked to the case, Beckenbauer went to Qatar as a guest of bin Hammam before the 2010 vote and met the state's emir. They added that he returned after the vote.

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Le Mans: Webber forced to withdraw

Mark Webber in his Porsche 919 Hybrid competes during the Le Mans 24 hours race. Picture: AFP Source: JEAN-FRANCOIS MONIER / AFP

MARK Webber is already looking ahead to 2015 after a surprisingly pacy performance in the Le Mans 24-hour race that left him just two hours short of a upset victory.

Australia's race favourite was battling toe-to-toe with the Audi team that eventually scored its 13th win in the French endurance classic when things came undone for his rookie Porsche squad.

The engine in Webber's 919 hybrid failed and he was pushed away into the garage, but still with a giant smile and his head held high.

"We had a crack. We led. We had a sniff," Webber told News Limited afterwards.

"We got within a couple of hours of a pretty special result. We had a great day out there."

Webber went into the race without a single race lap at the gruelling 13.6-kilometre French course and, after a steady start, he and his co-drivers Tim Bernhard and Brendon Hartley got better as the race went on.

They were helped by the retirement of the pace-setting Toyota TS 040 of Alex Wurz, which was poleaxed by an electrical fire and a mechanical problem on the lead Audi of Tom Kristensen.

Webber prepares for the warm-up session in Le Mans, France. Source: Getty Images

When things got serious on Sunday morning, with only six hours to the flag, Webber was at the wheel and pushing hard for victory. He kept up incredible pressure on the benchmark Audi team despite a front-end problem that slowed his Porsche and made it tough to drive, and was typically frank in his race wrap.

"I'm a better Le Mans driver than I was yesterday. I learned a lot," he said.

"There were just no F-ups anywhere. In the end, close. Very, very close. But Audi and Toyota knocked seven bells out of each other. They actually knocked each other out."

But it was Audi which, typically, pulled on its vast reserves of talent and experience to take a 1-2 ahead of the remaining Toyota.

It was the third time that Andre Lotterer, Benoit Treluyer and Marcel Fassler had combined for the win, and also the third time that Audi had claimed the race with a hybrid R18 e-tron quattro.

Webber said he will be stronger as a driver in 12 months and predicts that Porsche will be serious contenders from the start.

"We just learned. That was a pretty decent crack. We made our presence felt," he said.

"You've got to graft. We'll be back next year, give it a big go, be right there."

Watch the entire Le Mans 24 Hours LIVE on SPEED this weekend!

Paul Gover is on Twitter: @paulwardgover

Drivers take the start at the 82nd Le Mans endurance race. Source: AFP

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