Gumby ignites Dons against Saints

Scott Gumbleton kicked four goals. Photo: Michael Dodge/Getty Images

RAMPAGING Essendon has another dangerous tall target. One they know well but haven't been able to utilise for the past five seasons.

Scott Gumbleton reminded the Bomber faithful of his top 10 draft talents with a solid comeback at Etihad Stadium.

Gumbleton, a late replacement for Stewart Crameri, grabbed his chance to contribute four goals in the 37 points win against a gallant if disjointed St Kilda.

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The 197cm forward, restricted to just 28 AFL games by back and hamstring ailments since being drafted in 2007, made a timely return with Patrick Ryder suspended and fellow forward Michael Hurley hobbling off with an ankle injury in the third quarter.

St Kilda v Essendon at Etihad Stadium, Docklands - April 20th 2013 in Melbourne, Australia . Brendon Goddard Picture: Salpigtidis George Source:

And the in-form Bombers tuned for the Anzac Day clash next Thursday by easing classy midfielder Jason Winderlich back, also for his first appearance this season.

Winderlich, restricted to only two games last season, drew loud applause with his first touch after coming on as the sub to replace the injured Hurley.

The return of Gumbleton and Winderlich underlined Essendon's depth of talent amid the potentially match-turning elite as it dismantled the Saints, almost from the opening bounce.

Bring on Anzac Day expectations, bring on Collingwood ... in fact, bring on anyone. These Bombers are justifiably scared of no-one, no occasion and no foe.

Having big David Hille back also gave Essendon the luxury of letting Tom Bellchambers lurk deep inside the forward 50 to torment defenders with his height, strength and vice-like grip.

Skipper Jobe Watson was equally lethal when he took a breather up forward when he wasn't commanding the onball unit.

Watson's almost fanatical workrate typified the Bombers resolve at every contest, to create with the ball and grimly defend without it.

St Kilda, in contrast, went forward with hope rather than system. Its structures often broke down, as much by their own hand as the Bombers' relentless pressure.

Coach Scott Watters, for instance, will want to know how and why there wasn't a ruckman at three boundary throw-ins in an embarrassing communications breakdown late in the second quarter.

Essendon players seemed to have a healthier appetite for the contest and their better workrate made a mockery of the lethargy tales in the game after the Perth trip.

The Bombers' defensive pressure was first class. And they worried the sluggish Saints with the run and spread after that hard work created a turnover.

And no wonder St Kilda was jumped early in the contest _ Nick Riewoldt had one kick, Ahmed Saad one handball, Terry Milera just two touches and Stevie Milne was leading the way with four possessions on the quarter-time siren.

But for Beau Maister's marking prowess which he converted into two goals, the Saints would've faced an already insurmountable first change deficit.

In Riewoldt's defence, the delivery to him was appalling. Time and again, the skipper presented himself in a dangerous position. Alas, teammates couldn't spot him with the kick inside the forward 50.

That haphazard supply was emphasised in the opening minutes of the second term when Armitage attempted a chip pass from only 20m away and still couldn't hit Riewoldt on the lead. Essendon rebounded around the dockside wing and, in contrast, found Hurley for another goal.

Simply, Essendon had multiple options up forward. A flukey soccer goal from Alwyn Davey and an equally audacious snap shot by Brent Stanton three minutes later allowed the Bombers to skip away midway through the second quarter.

St Kilda v Essendon at Etihad Stadium, Docklands - April 20th 2013 in Melbourne, Australia . Michael Hurley on crutches at 3 quarter time. Picture: Salpigtidis George Source:

Davey, with opponents bearing down, didn't attempt to grab the ball and simply drilled a left foot volley from 40m directly in front. And Stanton's, from the same distance, but deep near the boundary line, was the team-lifting type.

The Saints paid a hefty price for missing targets _ like Saad when he crumbed the ball off a marking contest, ran unchecked to within 25m and speared the shot into the left goalpost late in the second term.

And another Saad miss following that deliberate set shot routine after the half-time siren could prove costly with fines for a bunch of players from both teams. A wild melee involving nearly every player broke out near the entrance to the Bombers' race when Saad took exception to a Bomber sledge.

It summed up the Saints' collective frustration of being powerless to contain their free-scoring and free-running opponents.

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Eddie's first for roar passion

Eddie Maguire and his all-Collingwood commentary team get fired up as the Magpies come from behind to beat Richmond.

Eddie McGuire unleashes a world class tirade on a Richmand fan during his Ed TV call.

Collingwood president Eddie McGuire enjoyed calling the Pies game. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

THE Magpies' attack on Richmond was ferocious. They bullied, they were loud and they didn't let up for four quarters.

And that was only in the commentary box. Not even the umpires were safe as Eddie McGuire got his way and didn't disappoint down with his unashamedly biased call of Collingwood's 34-point win against the Tigers.

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Never had a regulation Steele Sidebottom mark received a torrent of adulation like this.

You'd think "Sidey'' had just equalled Leo Barry's feat when he marked unopposed and goaled from 10m in the first quarter, such were the screams of excitement from Fox Footy's all-Magpies commentary team.

>>> VIDEO: Watch the best of Eddie's call in the videos above

And Tiger highlights were met with silence or uninspired descriptions from McGuire and Magpie offsiders Michael Christian and Tony Shaw.

"In the back SURELY, umpire!'' Ed bellowed as the passion began to escalate late in the first quarter.

Richmond players leave the ground after their loss in the AFL Round Four match between the Richmond Tigers and the Collingwood Magpies at the MCG, Melbourne, on Saturday 20th April, 2013. Picture: Dadswell Mark Source:

"Five points down, we'll take that at (quarter-time). We don't want to give up a goal now,'' Ed followed up with, before on cue Jake King nailed a major.

Not oven the Magpies were safe, with the trio grilling Ben Hudson in the second term when he failed to rush a behind, gifting Luke McGuane a ``soft'' goal.

"That's shocking,'' Ed said.

Eddie McGuire unleashes a world class tirade on a Richmand fan during his Ed TV call.

"Hudson's got to smack that through,'' Christian added.

The call, dubbed Channel Ed's Black and White TV, became the Travis Cloke Show after halftime as the spearhead tore the Tigers apart.

"CLLOOOKKEEE!!!'' the callers screamed in unison each time he clunked a big grab.

"Clokey boy! Kicks his fourth for the quarter and the Pies are on fire at the MCG. Come on Pies!'' Ed said later that term.

Travis Cloke of the Magpies celebrates a goal during the AFL Round Four match between the Richmond Tigers and the Collingwood Magpies at the MCG, Melbourne, on Saturday 20th April, 2013. Picture: Dadswell Mark Source:

When the star forward lined up from the Punt Rd pocket in the last, McGuire let loose at fans jeering him over the fence.

"That's as close as you'll get to greatness, ya peanut. Shut up! That's No. 7. Cop that, you Tiger mongrel!"

And the Magpie president had Steve Morris in his sights after the Tiger cleaned up Dane Swan off the ball.

It followed Morris flooring Jamie Elliott off the ball in the first half, and drew this reaction: "He's gone and done that twice now, Morris.''

As the Pies poured on eight consecutive goals in the third, Eddie cheekily remarked: "Welcome to the big time, Tigers!''

Sam Dwyer became Sammy, Cloke became Clokey boy and Scott Pendlebury was officially 'Pendles' on Channel Ed.

Every Dane Swan accolade was noted, we learnt Paul Seedsman's great grandfather once chaired the Pies and there was little love from McGuire for Richmond's favourite sons.

"(Jack) Riewoldt's going berserk, we want to see more of that,'' he said.
 

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Dane's not ready for Swan song

Collingwood star Dane Swan refused to be chaired off after his 200th AFL game. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

COLLINGWOOD players wanted to chair Dane Swan off the ground yesterday to celebrate his 200th game, but the man himself put an end to the suggestion after the club's 34-point win over Richmond.

Magpie defender Alan Toovey revealed Harry O'Brien and Scott Pendlebury motioned to get Swan up on their shoulders after he finished with a game-high 35 touches in his milestone match.

"The boys were keen to do it, Harry and 'Pendles' and a few of the guys, but he (Swan) didn't want any of that," Toovey said. "That's just the way he is. He kind of doesn't want to be the man in the spotlight."

The 29-year-old midfielder admitted before the game that personal milestones or accolades won't mean anything until his career is over - and judging by his form yesterday, that looks like being deep off into the distance.

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"He got a (pre-game) mention (from Nathan Buckley and Ben Johnson, who did not play yesterday), but I don't think it fazed him too much," Toovey said.

"It was good to see him have a win, especially for his 200th. It's a great achievement."

Toovey, who was his usual reliable self in defence, described Collingwood's blistering eight-goal third term as the best quarter the team had played all season.

Part of it came from the dominance of Travis Cloke, who kicked seven goals in all and four for the quarter.

"He (Cloke) didn't drop one today," Toovey said. "I think he enjoyed it. He was getting off the ground, taking good marks. His body work was good and his accuracy has really improved.

"It gives the team a lot of confidence when he is playing well.

"It was a really good team effort, the way we played, especially in the second half. We came in with a plan, we stuck to it and we were able to make it work." Toovey said the Magpies' experience of preparing for Anzac Day games off a short break will stand the team in good stead for Thursday's clash with Essendon.

Travis Cloke of the Magpies celebrates a goal during the AFL Round Four match between the Richmond Tigers and the Collingwood Magpies at the MCG, Melbourne, on Saturday 20th April, 2013. Picture: Dadswell Mark Source:

"It's going to be different to every other game of the year, as we are going to be playing on a Thursday after playing a Saturday game," he said.

"But it is all about recovery now ... it will be different for some of the young guys, and the guys new to the club. But it is a great day and you get up for it no matter what."

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Port too strong for Suns

Port Adelaide forward Jay Schulz flies high on his way to kicking four goals. Picture: David Clark Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

PORT Adelaide keeps answering every challenge this season with last night's 38-point win over Gold Coast completing its best ever start to an AFL season.

While the significance of last week's win over Adelaide was beating a top-four side, last night was about winning under the weight of expectation.

The Power has suddenly grown up and after years of breaking supporters' hearts with false promise, a more mature Port Adelaide has learnt to win when it is expected to.

They overcame a sluggish first quarter which hinted at a Showdown hangover to explode with a nine goal to one second term and never looked back.

Hamish Hartlett was outstanding in continuing his progression to elite midfielder while former captain Dom Cassisi - playing his first game for the season - showed his value to the team with a superb job on Gary Ablett.

Ablett had 15 touches on Kane Cornes and Cam O'Shea in the first quarter before Cassisi restricted him to just two touches in the second term and got plenty of the footy himself.

The other shining light for Port was the combined defensive pressure of Jasper Pittard, Tom Jonas and Campbell Heath while Jackson Trengove dominated Gold Coast forward Sam Day who was eventually moved into defence on Jay Schulz.

Port kicked the first two goals of the game which included Chad Wingard's miracle left-foot snap from the boundary before Gold Coast hit back through Ablett and Jarrod Harbrow's work in the midfield.

Brandon Matera was causing havoc in the Suns' forward line and his late goal put the home side seven points up at quarter time.

Ken Hinkley then gave Cassisi the game's toughest assignment in standing Ablett and the move was a masterstroke.

As Ablett went quiet, Port's intensity lifted all over the ground and it was fourth-gamer Jake Neade leading the way.

Hartlett imposed himself with three goals for the quarter while Justin Westhoff and Wingard inflicted similar damage to give Port a 43-point lead at half time.

The only shining light for the Suns in the second quarter was teenager Jaeger O'Meara who tried to lift his side but Port had all the answers.

Gold Coast showed some early resistance after half time and got the first goal through Rory Thompson before Schulz got involved.

He kicked a goal from 30m then took a hanger over Day in the goal square which resulted in his second major and the result was beyond doubt.

Schulz finished with four goals for the game as Hartlett, Wingard and Westhoff chimed in with three.

After three competitive weeks, the Suns fell away but weren't helped by serious injuries to Joel Wilkinson and
Matthew Warnock.

The positives meanwhile kept coming for the Power as Robbie Gray was subbed in during the third quarter in his return from a knee reconstruction.

Port Adelaide held its collective breath as with his first involvement in the game Gray lunged horizontally at Andrew Swallow and had his legs taken out in mid-air but bounced straight up, showing he had lost none of his competitive instinct.

The soft-draw argument still cannot completely be dismissed when assessing where Port Adelaide ranks in relation to the rest of the competition.

But there is no denying the side has significantly improved physically and mentally because the Power of 'old' would have been prone to dropping at least one match against Gold Coast, GWS and Melbourne.

But not this unit. Under Hinkley, Port now has a steely resolve and while it's too soon to talk finals, those credentials will be put to the test in the next month.

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Speedy Blues make Eagles pay

Carlton speedster Chris Yarran booted four goals to lead the Blues to victory. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

Eagles skipper Darren Glass played on despite injuring his shoulder in the first quarter. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

SPEED kills. It can also embarrass you as West Coast defender Adam Selwood found out last night.

Leg speed has never been a strong point for the 28-year-old veteran of 182 games, but his lack of it has never been more brutally exposed than at Patersons Stadium last night.

Twice in the decisive second quarter Carlton's Chris Yarran left Selwood in his wake as he kicked sensational running goals.

Not being able to catch Yarran is nothing to be ashamed of. But the fact Dennis Armfield and Jeff Garlett started well behind Selwood before catching him and putting on shepherds made it ugly.

To blame the wholehearted elder Selwood brother for the defeat would be wrong.

The host of Eagles who sprayed simple shots on goal will instead be looking in the mirror after the Blues stunned the Eagles 12.17 (89) to 7.23 (65).

The men at the centre of the bombshell trade between the clubs six years ago - Chris Judd and Josh Kennedy - were both only peripheral figures.

Carlton's 20-point half-time lead came despite Judd having no influence to that point.

Judd, the Eagles' 2006 premiership skipper, had just one kick and five handballs in the opening half.

The shutdown job was a team effort from the Eagles, with Scott Selwood, who finished with a game-high 32 disposals and seven clearances, and Luke Shuey keeping him on a leash in the midfield and Will Schofield and flag teammate Adam Selwood minding him when he was stationed forward.

Garlett booted Carlton's second major at the 21-minute mark of the first quarter but most eyes were on Eagles skipper Darren Glass, who was laying on the ground after hurting his right shoulder in an awkward fall.

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The veteran defender had his shoulder strapped and took part in one-on-one marking contests with runner Anthony Jones at quarter-time as a fitness test to decide whether he would play on.

Glass gamely battled on but was clearly restricted as he was forced to punch left-handed and struggled to tackle with his right arm.

The teams traded goals until Swan Districts product Yarran booted the first two of his brilliant running goals in the space of three minutes midway through the second term.

Yarran nonchalantly sprinted away from Adam Selwood to kick his second, before another WA recruit in Kane Lucas made it three in a row for the visitors.

With the Coasters in trouble 14 points down, the umpires looked to have come to the rescue as Callum Sinclair was handed a soft free kick in front of goal - his fourth free for the night.

The groans around Subiaco told the story as Sinclair hit the post from 20m out, taking West Coast's tally to a woeful 3.13. The Eagles finished with 14 behinds for the opening half, the equal highest first-half behind tally in the club's history.

When Glass was out-marked in front of goal by 184cm midfielder Brock McLean early in the third term, his bravery was becoming foolhardy but the Eagles opted to persist with the All-Australian captain, instead pulling Jamie
Cripps from the game to inject substitute Bradd Dalziell.

Mark LeCras gave the home side a glimmer of hope when his second goal 15 minutes into the third term ended a run of six majors to the rampant Blues. But West Coast's tally of 4.16 still said plenty about why it was in such dire trouble.

Yarran's lightning pace came back to haunt the Eagles when he panicked Eric Mackenzie into giving away a holding free kick in the goal square, converting to push the lead beyond five goals again.

It was now or never for a response and it finally came as Jack Darling, Andrew Gaff and Daniel Kerr combined for the last three goals of the third term to close the margin to a manageable 15 points at the final change.

It was a situation that required some magic and Kerr was the man to oblige as he landed his sensational drop punt from the point where the 50m arc intersected the boundary line at the Subiaco end of the ground.

The goal brought the loudest roar of the night from the crowd of 38, 674 and it would remain that way.

There was little more to cheer about as the Blues held the Eagles goal less throughout the final quarter.

Dalziell might have had fresh legs but even that was no help as he missed a simple set shot early in the final term to continue West Coast's shocking night in front of the sticks.

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Teams: Dees dump Toumpas

Demon Jimmy Toumpas juggles the ball at training during the week. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

MELBOURNE has dumped No.4 pick Jimmy Toumpas for Sunday's must-win match against Greater Western Sydney.

Toumpas has played bit part roles for the Demons after making his debut in Round 1 as the substitute.

But Demons coach Mark Neeld has gifted No. 1 draft pick Jack Watts an instant reprieve despite the struggling defender not playing football at any level last week.

Watts was named in a back pocket ahead of Sunday's critical clash against Greater Western Sydney.

Scroll down to see all the Round 4 teams

Ruckman Max Gawn, who has not played since 2011, is also set to return after being named in the starting 18.

Watts was axed last week but, instead of playing for VFL affiliate Casey, was taken to the MCG on standby ahead of the Eagles clash.

"Jack missed last week's game, based on his training form, attitude and the way we want to set our backline, he gets another opportunity to show what he can do," Dees football manager Josh Mahoney said.

The Demons will name their omissions tomorrow, when the 25-man squad is trimmed to 22.

NORTH Melbourne ball magnet Liam Anthony has beaten off Kangaroos Will Sierakowski and Levi Greenwood for a spot in Sunday's team.

Anthony is joined by boom Kangaroos debutant Majak Daw in the best 22.

Daw is set to become the first Sudanese born player to make his AFL debut.

BRISBANE is set to unveil rebounding defender Sam Docherty and key post Marco Paparone on Sunday at Etihad Stadium.

Both played in the Lions successful NAB Cup campaign and have continued their good form in the NEAFL.

The Western Bulldogs have been decimated further by the loss of star Robert Murphy.

The stand-in captain injured his calf and joins Shaun Higgins (foot), Easton Wood (hamstring) and Tory Dickson (ankle) as forced changes ahead of the clash with Adelaide on Sunday.

The Dogs have also lost young midfielder Lin Jong with a broken leg.

But skipper Matthew Boyd will face the Crows, while prized draft picks Jackson Macrae and Jake Stringer are both named in the squad and likely to debut.

VIDEO: See Macrae's trick bag with this exclusive Pick Me highlights reel

Welcome to the major league, lads: Jake Stringer and Jackson Macrae after being selected at No.5 and No.6 by the Western Bulldogs. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

A settled Richmond made no changes ahead of its blockbuster clash against Collingwood.

The Magpies brought back youngsters Paul Seedsman and Josh Thomas at the expense of veteran Ben Johnson (calf) and Jack Frost.

Geelong has regained defender Jared Rivers for Friday night's match against Sydney, while George Horlin-Smith also returns at the expense of Travis Varcoe (shoulder) and Jordan Murdoch.

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ROUND 4 GAMES

SYDNEY v GEELONG, 7.50pm Friday at the SCG

SYDNEY
B: L.Roberts-Thomson, H.Grundy, N.Smith
HB: M.Mattner, T.Richards, N.Malceski
C: R.O'Keefe, K.Jack, L.Jetta
HF: J.Bolton, S.Reid, D.Hannebery
F: M.Pyke, A.Goodes, B.McGlynn
Foll: S.Mumford, J.Kennedy, J.McVeigh
I/C: T.Armstrong, M.Morton, L.Parker, D.Rampe
Emerg: C.Bird, A.Everitt, J.White

In: M.Morton , D.Rampe
Out: C.Bird (omitted) , A.Everitt (omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Josh Kennedy doesn't look like slowing down anytime soon. Currently the third-most expensive player in the league behind Scott Pendlebury and Gary Ablett, he leads the competition for contested possessions and ranks sixth for clearances.

GEELONG
B: T.Hunt 19, T.Lonergan 13, C.Enright 44,
HJ.Corey 11, H.Taylor 7, A.Mackie 4,
C: M.Duncan 22, J.Bartel 3, B.Smedts 2,
HF: P.Chapman 35, J.Podsiadly 31, S.Motlop 32,
F: T.West 12, T.Hawkins 26, S.Johnson 20
Foll: M.Blicavs 46, J.Selwood 14, M.Stokes 27,
I/C J.Rivers 25, J.Caddy 23, G.Horlin-Smith 33, A.Christensen 28,
Emerg: J.Murdoch 21, M.Brown 1, J.Thurlow 40

In: J.Rivers , G.Horlin-Smith
Out: T.Varcoe (Shoulder) , J.Murdoch (Omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Jimmy Bartel finished with 27 disposals, 10 contested possessions, three tackles and a combined seven inside 50s/rebound 50s when he last came up against the Swans at the SCG in Round 13 last season. His tally of 97 points was the third-best return of any Cats player for the match.

HAWTHORN v FREMANTLE, 1.45 pm Saturday at Aurora Stadium

HAWTHORN
B: J.Gibson 6, R.Schoenmakers 25, L.Hodge 15
HB: S.Burgoyne 9, B.Stratton 24 G.Birchall 14
C: L.Shiels 26, Mitchell 5 B.Hill 10
HF: P.Puopolo 28, L.Franklin 23, I.Smith 16
F: J.Gunston 19 , J.Roughead 2, L.Breust 22
Foll: D.Hale 20, C.Rioli 33, J.Lewis 3
I/CT.Duryea 41, M.Bailey 39, M.Osborne 7, B.Guerra 18
Emerg: S.Savage 21, B.Lake 17, A.Litherland 31

In: M.Osborne
Out: J.Anderson (hamstring)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
With scores of 103 and 122 points in his first two matches, expect to see Luke Hodge's price skyrocket after his next match. He finished with 31 disposals, 17 contested possessions, four clearances, six inside 50s and two goals last week against Collingwood.

FREMANTLE
B: L.Spurr 34, Z.Dawson3, M.Johnson37
HB: N.Suban 8, L.McPharlin 18, P.Duffield 41
C: T.Mzungu 13, R.Crowley 15, C.Pearce 46
HF: M.De Boer 9, K.Bradley 26, N.Fyfe 7
F: H.Ballantyne 1, C.Mayne23, M.Walters10
Foll: J.Griffin12 D.Mundy16, S.Hill 32
I/C: M.Barlow 21, D.Pearce 6, C.Sutcliffe 33, L.Neale 27
Emerg: J.Hannath 38, H.Crozier 17, Tanner Smith 22

In: L.Neale
Out: M.Pavlich (Achilles)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Michael Barlow was one of very few winners for Fremantle when they last played at Aurora Stadium in Round 8 last season, amassing 98 points. He finished with 27 disposals, 11 contested possessions, four clearances, seven inside 50s and six tackles.

RICHMOND v COLLIGNWOOD, 2.10pm Saturday at the MCG

RICHMOND
B: S.Morris 38, A.Rance 18, T.Chaplin 25
HB: D.Grimes 2, R.Petterd 13, B.Houli 14
C: C.Newman 1, T.Cotchin 9, R.Conca 30
HF: B.Deledio 3, S.Edwards 10, D.Jackson 23
F: L.McGuane 16, J.Riewoldt 8, T.Vickery 29
Foll: I.Maric 20, D.Martin 4, S.Tuck 21
I/C: B.Ellis 5, J.King 28, S.Grigg 6, C.Knights 15
Emg: J.Batchelor 11, R.Nahas 26, N.Vlastuin 31

NO CHANGE

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Ivan Maric is one of only four ruckmen to score at least 100 points in all three matches this season. Despite averaging fewer hitouts compared to last year he has been more effective, recording a career-high hitout-to-advantage rate of 38 per cent.

COLLINGWOOD
B: N.Brown 16, A.Toovey 34, B.Reid 20
HB: M.Clarke 9, H.Shaw 39, H.O'Brien 8
C: S.Sidebottom 22, D.Swan 36, D.Thomas 13
HF: J.Elliott 19, T.Cloke 32, Q.Lynch 21
F: B.Sinclair 28, T.Goldsack 6, S.Dwyer 41
Foll: B.Hudson 25, S.Pendlebury 10, J.Blair 11
I/C: A.Fasolo 1, J.Russell 2, J.Thomas 24, P.Seedsman 40
Emg: B.Macaffer 3, B.Kennedy 27, J.Frost 45

In: J.Thomas, P.Seedsman
Out: B.Johnson (calf), J.Frost

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Dane Swan will be looking to celebrate his 200th AFL game this week against Richmond in style. His record against the Tigers since 2009 has been outstanding, averaging 151 points per match – scoring a combined 145 more points than any other player at the club.

ESSENDON v ST KILDA, 4.40pm Saturday at Etihad Stadium

ESSENDON
B: C.Dempsey, J.Carlisle, M.Baguley,
HB: C.Hooker, T.Pears, B.Stanton,
C: J.Winderlich, J.Watson, D.Zaharakis,
HF: B.Howlett, D.Hille, S.Crameri,
F: A.Davey, M.Hurley, B.Goddard,
Foll: T.Bellchambers, D.Heppell, H.Hocking,
I/C: J.Melksham, J.Merrett, M.Hibberd, D.Myers,
Emerg: T.Colyer, N.Lovett-Murray, S.Gumbleton

In: D.Hille , J.Winderlich , T.Pears , M.Baguley , J.Merrett
Out: P.Ryder (Suspension) , T.Colyer (Omitted) , N.Kommer (Suspension) , E.Kavanagh (Omitted) , D.Fletcher (Groin)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Paddy Ryder's three-game suspension is a massive blow to over 25,000 coaches, especially after he recorded a whopping 145 points last week against Fremantle. A straight swap for a similarly priced Sam Jacobs is the way to go.

ST KILDA
B: N.Wright, T.Simpkin,D.Roberton
HB: J.Geary, R.Stanley, S.Gilbert
C: N.Dal Santo, L.Hayes, S.Fisher
HF: L.Montagna, N.Riewoldt, T.Milera
F: S.Milne, B.Maister, A.Saad
Foll: B.McEvoy, D.Armitage, J.Steven
I/C A.Siposs, C.Jones, T.Lee, F.Ray
Emerg: T.Hickey, S.Ross, T.Dennis-Lane

In: T.Simpkin , A.Siposs
Out: J.Blake (omitted) , J.Newnes (jaw)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Nathan Wright hit the ground running on debut last week against the Giants, collecting 67 points from 89% game time. He finished with 22 disposals (82% disposal efficiency), 13 handball-receives and three rebound 50s. A good bench option for your defence.

WEST COAST v CARLTON, 7.40pm Saturday at Patersons Stadium

WEST COAST
B: W.Schofield 31, D.Glass 23, J.Brennan 14
HB: S.Hurn 25, E.Mackenzie 16, S.Butler 26
C: D.Kerr 4, M.Priddis 11, C.Masten 7
HF: J.Cripps 15, J.Kennedy 17, M.LeCras 2
F: A.Hams 43, J.Darling, 27, J.Hill 33
Foll: D.Cox 20, S.Selwood 10, L.Shuey 13
I/C: A.Gaff 3, A.Selwood 37, B.Dalziell 18, C.Sinclair 22
Emg: M.Brown 1, M.Hutchings 34, As.Smith 28
In: E.Mackenzie , B.Dalziell
Out: M.Brown, A.Embley (foot)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Scott Selwood dominated when he last came up against Carlton at Patersons Stadium in Round 12, recording 33 disposals, 14 contested possessions and four clearances. He shut Chris Judd down and racked up 155 points himself – the second-best return of any player on the ground.

CARLTON
B: C.Yarran 13, M.Jamison 40, L.Henderson 23
HB: Z.Tuohy 42, D.Armfield 27, B.Gibbs 4
C: K.Simpson 6, A.Carrazzo 44, M.Robinson 12
HF: C.Judd 5, A.Walker 1, J.Garlett 38
F: E.Curnow 35, S.Hampson 22, S.Rowe 17
Foll: R.Warnock 11, M.Murphy 3, B.McLean 14
I/C: A.Joseph 45, K.Lucas 9, H.Scotland 29, S.White 43
Emerg: D.Buckley 7, D.Ellard 46, N.Duigan 34

In: R.Warnock , E.Curnow , S.White
Out: M.Kreuzer (broken thumb) , M.Davies (hamstring) , D.Buckley

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Sam Rowe's price will rise this week after he plays his third match. He was Carlton's leading target inside 50 last week against Geelong, finishing with 10 disposals, four marks, two goals and 77 points.


GOLD COAST v PORT ADELAIDE, 7.40pm Saturday at Metricon Stadium

GOLD COAST
B: J. Wilkinson, M. Warnock, J. Hutchins
HB: T. Murphy, R. Thompson, G. Broughton
C: M. Rischitelli, G. Ablett, J. Harbrow
HF: D. Prestia, S. May, A. Hall
F: J. Brennan, S. Day, B. Matera
R: C. Dixon, K. Hunt, D. Swallow
INT: Z. Smith, J. O'Meara, H. Bennell, M. Shaw
EMERG: L. Russell, T. McKenzie, D. Stanley

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Jared Brennan led all scorers in last week's clash against Brisbane with 30 disposals and 146 points.

PORT ADELAIDE
B: Tom Jonas, Alipate Carlile, Cameron O'Shea
HB: Jasper Pittard, Jackson Trengove, Lewis Stevenson
C: Kane Cornes, Brad Ebert, Travis Boak
HF: Matthew Broadbent, Justin Westhoff, Angus Monfries
F: Robbie Gray, Jay Schulz, Chad Wingard
Foll: Matthew Lobbe, Hamish Hartlett, Oliver Wines
Int: Campbell Heath, Brent Renouf, Domenic Cassisi, Jake Neade
Emerg: Tom Logan, Sam Colquhoun, Andrew Moore

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Justin Westhoff continued his stellar start to the season with four goals and 150 points against local rival Adelaide. Westhoff is the highest-scoring player in the cometition with an average of 138 points.

MELBOURNE v GWS, 1.10pm Sunday at the MCG

MELBOURNE
B: J.Watts 4, J.Frawley 8, D.Terlich 46
HB: N.Jetta 39, T.McDonald 25, C.Garland 20
C: J.Trengove 9, J.Grimes 31, J.Viney 7
HF: A.Davey 36, M.Clark 11, J.Howe 38
F: L.Tapscott 35, M.Gawn 37, S.Byrnes 10
Foll: M.Jamar 40, C.Sylvia 12, N.Jones 2
I/C (from): J.Toumpas 5, C.Pedersen 21, J.Sellar 30, M.Evans 32, J.Spencer 42, R.Bail 44, M.Jones 45

In: J.Spencer , J.Watts , M.Gawn
Out: -

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Melbourne ranks 18th for inside 50 differentials this season, averaging 30 fewer per match compared to its opposition. This has had a major impact on its forwards, as highlighted by Mitch Clark's price fall of $36,600 – the biggest of any Melbourne player.

GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
B: A.Kennedy 40, T.Mohr 39, P.Davis 1
HB: T.Bugg 14, S.Gilham 38, N.Haynes 19
C: T.Scully 9, C.Ward 8, R.Palmer 7
HF: J.Townsend 31, J.Cameron 18, S.Reid 23
F: L.Sumner 28, S.O'hAilpin 37, S.Frost 48
Foll: J.Giles 26, A.Treloar 17, D.Shiel 5
I/C (from): S.Coniglio 3, T.Golds 15, T.Greene 4, A.Miles 25, L.Plowman 30, A.Tomlinson 20, L.Whitfield 6

In: S.O'hAilpin, R.Palmer, A.Miles, T.Golds, A.Tomlinson, J.Townsend, S.Frost, N.Haynes
Out: D.Brogan (suspension) , C.Hampton, W.Hoskin-Elliott, D.Smith (suspension) , J.Patton (knee)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Jon Patton's season-ending knee injury last week against St Kilda is a cruel blow for the youngster and the competition as well. If you haven't got the funds to upgrade him, then trading down to rookie Sam Mayes is an option worth considering.

ADELAIDE v WESTERN BULLDOGS, 3.15pm Sunday at AAMI Stadium

ADELAIDE
B: L.Brown 16, B.Rutten 25, A.Otten 22
HB: D.Mackay 14, D.Talia 12, B.Reilly 3
C: R.Sloane 9, S.Thompson 5, S.Kerridge 29
HF: M.Wright 11, J.Jenkins 4, R.Douglas 26
F: J.Petrenko 23, T.Walker 13, R.Henderson 45
Foll: S.Jacobs 24, P.Dangerfield 32, B.Crouch 2
I/C (from): M.Jaensch 10, G.Johncock 18, T.Lynch 27, J.Lyons 31, S.McKernan 35, J.Porplyzia 40, R.Laird 46

In: T.Lynch, S.McKernan, S.Kerridge, R.Laird, J.Lyons
Out: N.van Berlo (knee), B.Vince

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Like Adelaide themselves, Patrick Dangerfield has struggled to get going this season, suffering the fifth-biggest price fall of any midfielder in the AFL. Receiving plenty of attention from the opposition, he has had to win more of the ball from a contest than ever before, recording a contested possession rate of 61 per cent.

WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: T.Young 31, J.Roughead 23, L.Picken 42
HB: J.Johannisen 39, D.Morris 38, B.Goodes 44
C: J.Macrae 11, M.Boyd 5, K.Stevens 25
HF: R.Griffen 16, L.Jones 19, D.Giansiracusa 13
F: J.Tutt 15, A.Cordy 49, L.Dahlhaus 6
Foll: W.Minson 27, N.Lower 33, A.Cooney 17
I/C (from): M.Wallis 3, D.Cross 4, J.Stringer 9, C.Smith 14, T.Liberatore 21, C.Howard 30, L.Markovic 37

In: M.Boyd, L.Markovic , A.Cordy , J.Tutt , C.Howard , J.Stringer , J.Johannisen , J.Macrae
Out: R.Murphy (calf), S.Higgins (foot), E.Wood (hamstring), T.Campbell, T.Dickson (ankle)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
If you haven't got Brett Goodes in your side now then I'm afraid you have missed the boat. He has taken the most kick-ins of any player in the competition after three rounds and just enjoyed a $96,800 price increase – the biggest of any player in the AFL.

NORTH MELBOURNE v BRISBANE LIONS, 4.40pm Sunday at Etihad Stadium

NORTH MELBOURNE
B: S. McMahon 42, S. Thompson 16, M. Firitto 11,
HB: A. Mullett 41, N. Grima 17, J. MacMillan 34,
C: D. Wells 8, S. Atley 18, R. Bastinac 3,
HF: B. Cunnington 10, D. Petrie 20, T. Hine 26,
F: L. Thomas 12, T. Goldstein 22, L. Adams 13,
Foll: M. Daw 38, A. Swallow 9, J. Ziebell 7,
I/C: S. Gibson 43, L. Hansen 6, S. Wright 19, L. Anthony 4, L. Greenwood 24, W. Sierakowski 28, B. McKenzie

In: L. Anthony, L. Greenwood , W. Sierakowski, M. Daw, B. McKenzie
Out: R. Tarrant (leg), K. Harper (omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Andrew Swallow has averaged 119 points per game against Brisbane since 2009 – recording a combined 168 more points than any other player at the club. He has averaged seven clearances and tackles per match in that time and is a super option this week.

BRISBANE LIONS
B: J.Adcock, D.Merrett, A.McGrath
HB: S.Docherty ,J.Patfull, A.Raines
C: S.Mayes, T.Rockliff, P.Hanley
HF: D.Zorko, J.Brown, J.Green
F: J.Redden, S.Martin, N.McKeever
Foll: M.Leuenberger, D.Rich, B.Moloney
I/C from: R.Harwood, R.Bewick, M.Paparone, P.Karnezis, J.Polkinghorne, M.Golby, J.Crisp

In: R.Harwood, P.Karnezis, J.Crisp, M.Paparone, S.Docherty
Out: J.Polec (foot), E.Yeo (omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Dayne Zorko has been a shadow of the player he was last season, averaging 30 fewer points per game – the second-biggest fall of any Brisbane player. His defensive play is one area of his game that has dropped off, averaging three fewer tackles per game.

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Selwood inspires Cats to victory

The spotlight returned to the AFL's sliding rule when Sydney goal sneak Ben McGlynn became the latest pinged for making the football, not the man, his sole objective

Geelong captain Joel Selwood bursts out of the middle to drive the Cats forward. Picture: Philip Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

A VINTAGE Joel Selwood performance has led Geelong to a 21-point win over Sydney, as it confirmed its premiership credentials.

The Geelong captain was exceptional at the SCG as the Cats extended their unbeaten run to four wins to start the season.

Selwood had 30 possessions in a dominant display, again leading from the front as the Cats fought from 19 points back in the early stages of the second quarter, to run out comfortable winners.

The 4-0 start to the season, with the Western Bulldogs to come next week, sets up a perfect run to the second half of the season that includes six of the last 10 games of the season at Simonds Stadium.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats

Geelong beat Sydney at its own game, picking the perfect time to turn around its form at the stoppages which saw it ranked last in the competition heading into this round.

The Cats' intensity and work at the clearances blew the game open in the third quarter, as they piled on seven goals to one for the quarter.

They stopped Sydney's run through the middle which strangled its scoring opportunities.

The Swans didn't kick a goal between the 11-minute mark of the second quarter, when the margin was out to 19
points, to the 26-minute mark of the third quarter, as Geelong completely got on top.

Selwood played a quarter to remember in the third term, picking up seven disposals, at 100 per cent efficiency, which eventually led to seven Geelong scores, including six goals.

AFL - Sydney Swans v Geelong Cats at the SCG. Sydney's Adam Goodes gets out a diving handball ahead of the Cats Joel Selwood. Picture: Hillyard Philip Source: The Daily Telegraph

Geelong's pressure on Sydney became its trademark, particularly from the midway point of the second term, as it applied the screws.

The Swans simply couldn't find the answers.

Geelong dominated the clearances in the middle two quarters when the game was really in the balance.

They won seven to four out of the centre in those two terms.

Young Geelong midfielder George Horlin-Smith vindicated his promotion back to the senior team, ably assisting
Selwood in the middle with 23 touches and doing his lion's share at the stoppages, winning seven clearances.

Swans lose discipline, composure

Daniel Hannebery worked tirelessly for the Swans all night, battling on after copping a couple of huge knocks to finish his two-goal game with 29 touches.

It was a night when Geelong's key forwards didn't get it their way, but the spread of goalkickers is what did the Swans in.

Twelve Geelong players kicked goals last night, with the main target, Tom Hawkins, getting his three when the Cats finally had all the momentum.

Hawkins battled Ted Richards, who probably still finished with the points, despite Hawkins finishing with a credible three goals.

The contest was setup by an extraordinary first quarter that produced 15 goals.

For two teams renowned as tough, contested sides, it was an unexpectedly open, end-to-end term, as both teams ran the ball out of their back half, and converted remarkably accurately.

Lewis Roberts-Thomson was started up forward, but Chris Scott countered that, sending his own swingman, Harry Taylor, forward in a cameo in the middle of the first term that produced two goals.

The Cats were clearly intent on using the corridor, going inside at every opportunity as they tried to slice through the middle of the SCG.

AFL - Sydney Swans v Geelong Cats at the SCG. Sydney's Adam Goodes gets out a diving handball ahead of the Cats Joel Selwood. Picture: Hillyard Philip Source: The Daily Telegraph

The Swans were pushing all their numbers back, and then trying to outrun Geelong on the way back to goal.
Josh Kennedy, after a quiet start, started to get into it the longer the first quarter went.

The Swans started to get the game on their terms in the second quarter, restricting Geelong as it battled to get the ball past centre or half-forward.

They had kicked five of six goals either side of quarter time and were really starting to step up the scoreboard pressure on the Cats.

Geelong put the clamps down on Jarrad McVeigh, who had a game-high 10 possessions, four clearances and two goals in the first quarter.

He was held to just two touches in the second quarter as the Cats held in as Sydney threatened to open a comfortable lead.

With Steve Johnson and Steven Motlop held to just three touches for the second quarter, Sydney had stifled Geelong's creativity, and that had flow-on effects as it tried to go inside 50s.

Daniel Hannebery continued on his way, racking up 18 touches by the main break, but it was Selwood who stepped it up for the Cats, picking up 10 second-quarter possessions, as he lifted the intensity in the middle.

And while it was Sydney that looked to be getting on top in the first half of the second quarter, Geelong had pegged the margin back to just five points by half time.

The damage was restricted because of Geelong's dominance in the middle, winning 11 clearances to Sydney's three for the second term.

They had 100 possessions to just 77, and had control of the uncontested ball as the tried to find space.

Sydney's setup was also hampered by a knee injury to Roberts-Thomson, who was subbed out of the game during the second quarter.

Geelong kicked six unanswered goals from just before half time to the final 10 minutes of the third quarter, to establish an ascendency Sydney would never peg back.

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Dees recruiter under investigation

Melbourne has launched an investigation into an incident involving recruiter Jason Taylor. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE plunged further into crisis after revelations its new recruiting boss, Jason Taylor, was involved in a physical stoush on an AFL-sanctioned trip to Europe.

The Demons last night confirmed Taylor was in an altercation as part of the AIS/AFL trip to Milan.

It is believed the fracas involved the brother of Greater Western Sydney backman Stephen Gilham.

The club would not comment last night other than to say it would investigate the matter. The AFL is aware of an incident.

Taylor joined the Demons from Collingwood at the end of last season.

The nation's leading draft prospects toured Europe to play exhibition games and train at elite facilities under the close watch of the AFL's recruiters.

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Swans lose discipline, composure

The spotlight returned to the AFL's sliding rule when Sydney goal sneak Ben McGlynn became the latest pinged for making the football, not the man, his sole objective

Sydney co-captain Jarrad McVeigh trudges off the SCG after the Swans loss to Geelong. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

IT was so unlike the Swans. Sydney last night showed all the speed, skill and polish that has earned them such high praise under coach John Longmire, but forgot one of the cornerstones that former coach Paul Roos built the team on: accountability.

Geelong ran all over the Swans in the second half to stay unbeaten.

The loss will be even harder for the Swans to take with tall utility Lewis Roberts-Thomson forced from the ground with a knee injury that could cause Longmire selection headaches in the coming weeks.

The Cats' spread was overwhelming.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats

Led by Geelong captain and best on ground Joel Selwood, the Swans were overrun and, after trading blows, suddenly had no answer to the Cats' elite ball movement and attack on the contest.

It was only briefly, but the Swans suddenly forgot what they have prided themselves on to become one of the most-respected teams in the AFL.

Out-tackled, out-disciplined and out-muscled.

It showed in the number of mini-melees Swans players provoked and the number of free kicks they gave away.

With the Swans leading by five points at halftime, the Cats shot from the starting blocks in the second half, kicking the first four goals, including a soft free kick awarded to Tom Hawkins.

The Geelong power forward was well held for most of the night by All-Australian defender Ted Richards but still finished with three goals.

Selwood inspires Cats to victory

The Cats kicked 10 goals to the Swans' six in the second half, but Sydney kicked the last two to make the contest appear closer than it was.

Mike Pyke kicked the Swans back into the contest midway through the third quarter, when he marked in front, but the Cats responded with a barrage of four more unanswered goals, including one of pure-grit and gut-chasing from Selwood when he stretched himself to spoil a Swans defensive clearance, picked up the loose ball and drilled the goal.

The onslaught came and, like a deer caught in the headlights, the Swans had no answer.

The Cats kicked three goals in the final two minutes of the third quarter to shut the game down, and had the luxury of taking their feet off the accelerator in the final quarter.

The game started as a shootout with the Swans leading 49-44 at quarter-time.

But their run ended at halftime.

The Swans were smashed in clearances, tackles and marks inside 50.

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Doc stands down over Dank link

Melbourne club doctor Dan Bates has been stood down after his dealings with Stephen Dank were exposed. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

MELBOURNE club doctor Dan Bates last night stood down after the Demons' dealings with controversial sports scientist Stephen Dank were exposed.

Bates and football manager Josh Mahoney were yesterday part of a Melbourne delegation ordered to AFL House for a five-hour grilling by Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority and league investigators.

The Demons said Bates would be suspended from working at the club pending the outcome of the investigation, which would also examine the football department.

In a statement released last night, Melbourne president Don McLardy said the medico had been interviewed three times as part of an internal review into supplement use after the launch of the Essendon investigation in February.

"We have sufficient concerns about an identified breakdown in reporting protocols that we believe it is appropriate that Dr Bates stands aside until these matters are further investigated," McLardy said.

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou was yesterday furious at what he labelled "inconsistencies" and "omissions" in Melbourne's initial response to questions about Dank's involvement with the club.

Demons officials told the league the club had no formal links to Dank, but text messages between Dank and Bates suggest he worked closely with players.

It is known coach Mark Neeld was assured by a senior club official in February that he had nothing to worry about.

The AFL is less concerned about what may prove "legitimate substances" being administered to players than about being allegedly misled by the Demons.

"I don't want to speculate on that (possible Melbourne sanctions) other than to say you'll have heard me say countless times that this issue of ethics and trust in our code ... is something that you can't play ping-pong with," Demetriou told ABC radio.

"If anybody hasn't got the message that they must be absolutely truthful and be absolutely honest and upfront with the AFL, then there will be consequences."

Demetriou also told 3AW: "We asked the specific question the media had asked: Was Stephen Dank approached? Or did Stephen Dank approach Melbourne? Or was there discussion around employment at the Melbourne Football Club?

"You would expect that when we sat down with every club that was an opportunity for every club to be full and frank, to put their cards on the table, given the gravity of the situation".

Melbourne football manager Josh Mahoney leaves AFL House after speaking to ASADA officials and league investigators. Picture: Hamish Blair Source: Herald Sun

Melbourne refused to comment yesterday, instead standing by a statement released late on Thursday night that said an internal review of its supplements program had found no evidence of illegal practices.

The Demons now face a month of uncertainty, with ASADA and the AFL set to probe deeper into the club.

Melbourne told the Herald Sun in February that Dank "has never had any direct contact with the players".

that said an internal review of its supplements program found no evidence of any illegal practices.

It also said: "As soon as the investigation was launched into the Essendon Football Club, the Melbourne Football Club instructed all staff including Dr Bates to sever all ties with Stephen Dank, which occurred."

It remains unknown what justification the club has shown for not admitting its full involvement with Dank to the AFL.

The Demons now face a month of uncertainty, with ASADA and AFL investigators set to probe deeper into the club.

Melbourne told the Herald Sun in February that Dank "has never had any direct contact with the players."
 

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Hird speech an 'error': Goddard

Brendon Goddard says Essendon should never have made James Hird's post-Fremantle victory speech public. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON recruit Brendon Goddard says his club making James Hird's post-game speech public after their stirring win over Fremantle should never have happened.

Hird and captain Jobe Watson were filmed addressing their team after the Bombers came from 37 points down to defeat the Dockers in a thriller at Subiaco, with the footage then included as part of the team's weekly highlights package "The Hangar".

Teams: See what changes the Dons made ahead of the St Kilda clash

In the video Hird thanked his players, said they had run Fremantle "off their legs" and told them they'd have to soak up more pressure if they wanted to play finals.

But Goddard tonight issued a surprising warning to the club's football and media departments, telling 3AW that the release of the footage was an "error" that "should stay in-house".

James Hird and the players belt out the team song after beating Fremantle. Source: Herald Sun

"To be honest we talked about that and touched on it today. It's probably an error from the footy department that it didn't get run by them first."

"That's kind of something that stays in-house and it's really personal and especially the significance of the night and the win too, that post-match address from Hirdy and then Jobe is quite personal for us and it's something ... that should stay in house."

VIDEO: See Hird's post-match speech

Goddard went on to suggest Hird may not have known the footage was being published.

"It was probably an error somewhere along the line that it didn't get run by the coaches or something," he said.

The former St Kilda utility said the Fremantle victory was one of the best wins of his career and said he wasn't expecting much animosity from his former teammates when they clash at Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

"There will be a bit of drivel coming from Milney's mouth, but I've put up in that in the past. He'll try and give me a bit of a sledge here and there."

"I don't think there'll be too much of it. We'll just have a few personal jokes between us but I'm guessing I might cop a pie or a drink in the face from the crowd, that's probably the worst I'll get.

"It's going to be unique and somewhat weird but I'm also looking forward to it, to be honest."

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AFL ticket tax on hold

The AFL has delayed plans for variable ticket pricing at venues such as the MCG. Picture: Jay Town Source: Herald Sun

THE AFL has decided against a trial of variable ticket pricing at blockbuster games this year.

Instead the league will focus on a better deal for low-demand games in a bid to increase attendance.

Plans for a fans tax were revealed by the Herald Sun in February.

The league had flagged the "variable pricing" concept in an equalisation discussion paper sent to clubs in January under the heading "New revenue generation".

Under the strategy, premium seating at nominated big matches would cost more. The AFL told the Herald Sun there could be up to 10 seat price categories for blockbusters.

Instead, the league is expected to announce as early as today a trial of a new ticketing system at six low-demand games this year, starting in Round 8.

Under the trial, supporters will be given a free upgrade on a basic seat where available. The league was unable to say how many upgrade seats would be available for each match.

"The principle is to put you into the next best available seat when you buy for these six matches," a league spokesman said.

When considering the ticketing structure in February, AFL commercial operations chief Darren Birch told the Herald Sun: "The very, very, back seat on level four (at the MCG), which at the moment is $36, may actually be $30 or may actually be $25," he said.

"But, conversely, on the other side, a level-two seat on the 50m line under cover, which is a very good seat, at the moment sells for $47. That might be $60.

"It's not just about on your blockbusters whether you're able to generate more revenue. It's all about how do you give the best experience to fans across a whole range of games."

All the games chosen in the trial are matches with the potential to increase attendance.

It's expected home clubs will also have themes and events to build attendance.

The league had said ticket reforms could also include dynamic pricing, where prices change depending on demand and time of purchase.

Variable pricing is common in major overseas competitions such as the English Premier League and MLB, the NBA and NHL in the United States.

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Breust to stay a Hawk

Luke Breust has re-signed with the Hawks for two years. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: Herald Sun

LUKE Breust knows just how fickle an AFL career can be, having lived life on the edge throughout his first three seasons at Hawthorn.

As a rookie-listed player on one-year contracts, Breust admits he "could have got the a---" at any time.

When the 22-year-old says how much he appreciates the new two-year deal he has signed with the Hawks, you know he means it.

Breust is tied to Hawthorn until at least the end of the 2014 season.

It's great news for him, but also for Hawks fans, who got to see how talented the dangerous forward is last year when he compiled a season worthy of finishing fourth in the Peter Crimmins Medal count.

The cousin of rugby league legend Trent Barrett has come a long way since the days on the family farm.

When you live on a property of 1000ha 35km out of the nearest town (Temora, NSW, about 100km north of Wagga Wagga), neighbours are few and far between.

To hone his skills Breust would kick to his older brother, Mark, between sheep holding pens - driving his parents to despair - and take shots for goal between the posts the two had placed above the swing set.

It all worked, as he has become one of Hawthorn's most valuable attacking assets. In 2012, 52 per cent of his 374 possessions came among a scoring chain and he was ranked 10th in the competition for scoring impact.

But Breust said if there were one stat he looked at, it was defensive acts.

"If I can get four or five tackles as well as be in the high teens for pressure acts, then I know I'm in the game," he said.

Breust's debut in 2011 came at a time of transition for the Hawks.

It had been a frustrating couple of years since the 2008 premiership and the likes of him, Isaac Smith, Matt Suckling, Liam Shiels, Ben Stratton, Brendan Whitecross, Paul Puopolo, Ryan Schoenmakers and Shane Savage were starting to infiltrate the side.

Breust couldn't help but feel like he was intruding on the class of 2008.

"Now it is as much our team, I think," he said. "We've got a got group of guys around my age or a few years above who have come through and really cemented their spots.

"That's where the biggest improvement is going to come from."

Breust says a frustrating end to 2011 proved the catalyst for his breakout season last year.

"I played the first final and then got dropped for the second final against Sydney and didn't play the prelim against Collingwood either," he said.

"That was definitely a driving factor for me in 2012, and no doubt the Grand Final loss will be a driving factor for me in 2013."

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Texts trip up Demons

Melbourne is the second AFL club embroiled in the performance-enhancing drugs controversy after text messages between sports scientist Stephen Dank and club doctor Dan Bates emerged

Sports scientist Stephen Dank was texting Melbourne's club doctor Dan Bates on the day the Essendon scandal broke. Picture: James Croucher Source: The Daily Telegraph

THE man at the centre of the Essendon drug scandal was dealing with another AFL club on the day the Bombers went public.

As Essendon chairman David Evans was sitting ashen-faced at AFL headquarters, the man whose name would become synonymous with the drugs scandal was texting Melbourne doctor Dan Bates.

Bates sent a message to Stephen Dank, sports scientist, at 2.59pm on that day, February 5: "The press conference on now apparently."

It would seem amazing if Dank wasn't already watching live.

Revelations on ABC's 7.30 of the relationship between Melbourne and the former Bombers sports science guru will rock football just as Windy Hill was rocked.

MORE: Fresh claims rock Demons

The texts revealed last night start on August 3.

At 7.03am Bates allegedly writes to Dank about a supplements regime for someone called "John" who "seems happy to be guided by us".

"I think I would start with PRP and AOD."

PRP is Platelet Rich Plasma which is injected into the muscles to treat injuries, while AOD is an anti-obesity drug.

PRP was removed from the WADA banned list in 2011 while the anti-obesity drug believed to be involved is not approved for human use.

The text messages go on to name several players and supplements that were at least considered for use.

On January 9, Dank asks: "Did you get on to Mark Jamar?"

The answer was yes.

On January 30, Bates asked: Do you have the times for the injections tomorrow?

Dank names seven players and appointed times.

Bates: "Fantastic mate."

On the same day, Bates allegedly tells Dank: "Mate you have some amazing knowledge that has always stacked up with evidence from external sources. I am frustrated that we are not further along at Melbourne but you can see from the list for tomorrow they are all getting on board. We can continue to develop things at footy but I think we can really do some stuff with the cells. Dan."

The first treatment detailed in the texts was on December 12 for Melbourne co-captain Jack Trengove.

Dank: "When will we start Jack Trengrove (sic) on the AOD?"

Bates: "Tomorrow. Where can I get him to pick it up from?"

Dank: "The pharmacy. Tell him to ring me and he can meet me there."

A day later Bates is purported to ask Dank "when can we book guys for the injections".

"We will need to give them times. Dan."

Last night, time may have caught up with Melbourne.

- with Eliza Sewell

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Dees dragged into drugs scandal

Melbourne is the second AFL club embroiled in the performance-enhancing drugs controversy after text messages between sports scientist Stephen Dank and club doctor Dan Bates emerged

Texts between Steve Dank and Dees club doctor Dan Bates have emerged. Source: The Daily Telegraph

MELBOURNE has been plunged into the drugs scandal engulfing Australian sport after allegations its players were treated under a regime designed by controversial sports scientist Stephen Dank.

The AFL demanded urgent answers from the Demons, who were locked in crisis talks.

A series of text messages reportedly between Dank and Melbourne club doctor Dan Bates showed the pair discussed treatments for players, including co-captain Jack Trengove.

The strife-torn Dees will almost certainly join Essendon as the subject of a probe by anti-doping agency ASADA.

"The AFL is urgently seeking a further explanation from Melbourne Football Club about the veracity of the claims and how they can be reconciled with previous statements from the club," the AFL said in a statement.

"The AFL was not previously aware of the claims broadcast by the ABC and these will form part of ongoing investigations by ASADA and the AFL.

"As part of its initial inquiries in February, the AFL approached the Melbourne Football Club to ascertain the club's involvement with Stephen Dank.

"Melbourne provided the AFL with an explanation; however, the matter has remained open as part of the AFL's broader investigation into Mr Dank's activities with AFL clubs."

The text, aired on ABC's 7.30, shows arrangements being made for injections for seven players in late January and discusses the use of substances including anti-obesity drug AOD-9604, which is not approved for human use, cerebrolysin and platelet-rich plasma (PRP).

The contact allegedly took place from the middle of last year until February 5, the day Essendon called a press conference to admit it had requested an investigation into its supplements program.

Dank said in one text he was meeting Melbourne director of sports performance Neil Craig.

One detailed exchange centred on Trengove.

"Should we consider AOD cream for Jack Trengove's navicular," Dank wrote.

"Yep," Bates is alleged to have replied, before telling Dank, Trengove could start the treatment the next day.

Dank told Bates that Trengove should meet him at "the pharmacy".

The detailed texts show Dank suggested Melbourne players be injected with PRP, a substance used to treat sporting injuries that was taken off the World Anti-Doping Agency's banned list only in 2011.

Dank and Bates also discuss the use of substances including anti-obesity drug AOD-9604, which ASADA is considering banning, and Bates arranging for multiple players to be injected.

Bates allegedly wrote: "When can we book guys for the injections? We will need to give them times. Dan."

In the texts, Dank gave details of how the club could finance use of substances he prescribed.

"OK. I have a way to put the high performance unit as a R&D tax break. That would mean a fair chunk of money going back to the club." Earlier this year, the Demons denied any involvement with Dank.

- with Eliza Sewell

SOME OF THE ALLEGED TEXT MESSAGES

Dank to Bates: "Meeting with Neil Craig next Tuesday or Wednesday. Spoke to Dave today."

Bates to Dank: "Great."

Dank to Bates: "When we will start Jack Trengove on the AOD?"

Bates to Dank: "Tomorrow"

Bates to Dank: "Where can I get him to pick it up from?"

Dank to Bates: "The pharmacy. Tell him to ring me and he can meet me there."

Bates to Dank: "...Lynden Dunn would like an injection on Thursday if possible (good about Dunny asking, as he is doing it because the other guys have said they feel good). Dan."

Dank to Bates: "Great. I will book him in."

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I won't start to panic: Malthouse

Carlton coach Mick Malthouse has defended the Blues' poor start to the season, claiming success isn't about winning or losing.

Robert Warnock could play his first game for the season against West Coast on Saturday night. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

Carlton coach Mick Malthouse patrols the boundary line. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

MICK Malthouse - the man lured to Carlton to land the club's 17th flag on a deal worth millions - says it's not about wins and losses.

The Blues have lost their opening three matches and face West Coast on Saturday night in Perth.

A loss to the Eagles would mean Carlton would have to defy history to play finals - no side under the eight-team finals format has played in September after starting 0-4.

"It's not about win-loss, it's about process," Malthouse said.

"It's the process, it'll always be the process. And when you look after the process, the results will look after themselves.

"People will love to go, 'Look at your scoreline'.

"Let's look at it. We're two games out of the eight, or one game, I don't even know what the ladder is. So what's the big deal?

Ron Reed: We don't care about processes, Mick  

"It's are we playing good football? Yes we are, in patches.

"Are we playing good enough to beat our opponents? No, because we're not doing that for a full game."

When it was suggested that Carlton supporters would be wanting a win soon, Malthouse said he would not be panicked.

"Win game one to game 22, that's the supporters," Malthouse said.

"I can't help the supporters. All I can do is help the side.

"The supporters are there, we love the supporters, we want to get 50,000 members. We're zip and three, what do you want me to do, turn it around?

"It's got to be process driven."

In VFL-AFL history only four teams have started 0-4 and made the finals; North Melbourne in 1975 in a 12-team competition was the only side to go on to win the flag.

The Blues were considering recalling Levi Casboult and Rob Warnock to cover for injured ruckman Matthew Kreuzer (thumb) against the tall Eagles.

Warnock's 2012 season was ruined by a shoulder injury. He hasn't played since Round 14.

Jarrad Waite and Eddie Betts are not expected to play this weekend.

Malthouse defended captain Marc Murphy, who has been criticised for his defensive efforts, which Geelong exposed last week when Taylor Hunt kicked three goals on him.

"Marc, incidentally, got one of our votes," he said.

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Swan wants to stay on with Pies

Magpie Dane Swan (centre) at Collingwood training. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Dane Swan in action against Hawthorn last Sunday. Source: Herald Sun

CONTROVERSIAL midfielder Dane Swan wants to play on with Collingwood beyond his current contract, which expires at the end of next year.

Swan, who against Richmond on Saturday will play his 200th AFL match, has said previously he would give the game away when his existing deal ran out.

But the 29-year-old revealed last night that he had changed his mind - partly because he felt he still owed the club more.

"I am certainly not going to be Dustin Fletcher and play until I am 38," Swan told The Club on Fox Footy on Wednesday night.

"I am contracted until the end of next season and hopefully I can go around at least once or twice more.

"While I am able to contribute at a reasonably high level, I would like to think I would still be around, (but) the footy club would have to have me first."

Swan also said:

* HE had no intention of playing for another AFL club when his time at Collingwood was over.

* HE still owed the club more than it owed him, for saving his career "when it was going down the toilet".

* IF all the rumours about him were true, "I'd be dead".

Also during the interview, which the Herald Sun reported on last  night, Swan admitted he wanted to change the public perception of him.

"There is a perception of me out there," he said.

"Whether it's right or whether it's not, I suppose the damage has been done.

"But I'm slowly trying to repair it because I don't like my parents and family listening to talk-back radio and reading social media tweets."

Swan said his family had been hurt by what has been said about him.

"When your mum rings you up and you hear she is upset on the phone, that's when you probably realise that enough is enough," he said.

Swan said the life of an AFL footballler can be a "horrible world" and understands how it could lead to depression.

"I can understand how some AFL players could get depression," he said.

Picture gallery: Swan warms up for game 200

"Sometimes it can be a real horrible world for AFL footballers, even though we do have a great lifestyle.

"Just the media backlash you cop and the social media outbursts and the rants on all the websites and blogs.

"If you didn't have thick skin or you didn't handle negative words really well, I can understand why a player could suffer from depression."
 

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Veteran Hille poised for recall

Essendon ruckman David Hille (left) is set for an AFL recall this weekend. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

THE unbeaten Bombers hope Michael Hurley will prove his fitness at training today, before the Round 4 clash with St Kilda.

But Dustin Fletcher is all but ruled out with groin soreness, while small forward Nick Kommer and ruck/forward Paddy Ryder are suspended.

It had raised hopes Daniher might make his debut, but David Hille is on top of the list to replace Ryder despite missing last week's VFL game with soreness.

Small defender Mark Baguley is certain to return if he overcomes knee soreness, given St Kilda's fleet of small forwards.

And Jason Winderlich is a chance to make his senior return after three weeks of solid form in the VFL, following groin issues during summer.

While Essendon's match committee will consider the make-up of the team against St Kilda, the club's depth means it could rest some VFL players, then play them next Thursday on Anzac Day against Collingwood.

With Winderlich and Round 3 emergency Jackson Merrett pushing for Kommer's spot, Leroy Jetta might again be on the outer despite 26 possessions in last week's VFL loss.

The door might open for Gumbleton, who has played 28 games in six seasons, only if Hurley did not play.

Football manager Steve Alessio said Hille was in the picture to make his 2013 debut after signing a one-year contract extension.

"Hille was a late withdrawal, but luckily we took that option with Paddy Ryder's suspension," Alessio said.

"He is right in contention. He is a fair chance of getting up this weekend in the senior team. We would expect him to get up and play this weekend, if he trains well.

"You could also throw Gumbleton into the mix. We will look at the blend of talls against St Kilda."

Winderlich tore his groin in his 100th game in Round 19 last year after a slashing four-goal performance, but kicked eight goals in the VFL a fortnight ago.

"He is doing everything right. He has slowly increased his workload and quality of game and he has kicked stacks of goals, and he's another one strongly putting his hand up this week."
 

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'I'm so proud, thank you so much'

Bombers coach James Hird celebrates beating Fremantle with David Zaharakis (left) and Ben Howlett. Source: Getty Images

ESSENDON coach James Hird delivered an emotional speech to his players in the Subiaco rooms last Friday night, in which he thanked them and told of his pride after their win over Fremantle.

On Fox Footy program The Hangar last night, Hird's post-match speech to his players following the win was shown.

In it, Hird - who this week met with ASADA investigators - told his players just how much the win meant to him and the club.

"Anything is possible if you continue to play with that hunger and train with that hunger," Hird said.

James Hird and the players belt out the team song after beating Fremantle. Source: Herald Sun

"I'm so proud of you, I thank you so much. I personally...just thank you, thank you."

READ HIRD'S FULL SPEECH TO HIS PLAYERS AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS STORY

Inspirational skipper Jobe Watson was not to be outdone, jumping in following Hird's speech to declare his solid support for the club.

"From a player's perspective, the way the club is handling it and the people around it, it's comforting to come to the club and see these people here," he said.

How sweet it is. Source: Getty Images

"Because you know the people inside the football club care about you and they're the people you can lean on.

"So, I'm saying it now - I know when I get around the club that we'll be OK.

"It's special because of the people in this room."

Hird's full speech to the players in the rooms following the win:

"Let's talk about pressure and the way you handled that pressure. We didn't handle it well early, did we?

"They were much better than us early. You're going to have to handle more pressure than that - finals are big games.

"But to come from five goals or six goals down at Subiaco and beat a very, very good team and run them off their legs, it's an incredible effort.

"And I think Jobe you said it at the start of the game, let's coach ourselves out on the ground.

"That's what leadership is all about - coaching yourself when things aren't going right. Well done to everyone in this footy club, tonight was an amazing effort. Everything has been incredible - we just have to keep it going, alright?

"You've got to enjoy your win, get to bed when you get to bed, wake up the next morning in the hotel (laughs) and let's go after St Kilda.

"Anything is possible if you continue to play with that hunger and train with that hunger. I'm so proud of you, I thank you so much. I personally...just thank you, thank you."

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Bombers told to seek counsel

Essendon coach James Hird leaves his home yesterday, a day after speaking with ASADA investigators. Picture: Rob Leeson Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON players have been given access to a range of mental health experts as a leading sports psychologist says they can continue their winning streak during the drugs investigation.

Coach James Hird was interviewed by the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority on Tuesday, with investigators to talk to players next week.

The Bombers' unbeaten run will be challenged by two games in five days - against St Kilda on Saturday then Thursday's Anzac Day clash with Collingwood - which bookend ASADA's talks with senior players.

Carlton great Robert Walls is one expert who wonders if Essendon players will eventually be overcome by the burden of playing while under investigation.

Essendon says it continues to offer players a range of counselling programs, with the AFL Players Association also offering its support.

Sports psychologist Noel Blundell said yesterday he saw no reason why Essendon's players would become overwhelmed after three straight wins.

"It's amazing when players have to address peer issues off the field, they grow stronger," Blundell said.

"It's a real challenge to the culture of the club, and so far they seem to be handling it all well.

"If Essendon was smart it would have sat down as the process evolved and come up with a clear overall plan."

Bombers football manager Steve Alessio said the players were being encouraged to confront any problems head-on.

"Certainly, that's the case in-house," Alessio said.

"It's not only the psychologists, it's a lot of senior coaches and senior people around the club (who are providing support). If anyone has issues, whoever they feel most comfortable talking to, we want them to raise those issues.

"That's the big challenge with everything going on, to ensure that from the playing group the focus continues to be on the game and so far we can't fault the boys with their focus."

Walls wondered if the players might hit a brick wall this weekend as the investigation took its toll.

"They are in a bubble at the moment," Walls said.

"Confidence is on the upswing but this isn't going away and you just have to wonder how long can they keep this up? I have a feeling, eventually, it will get them down."
 

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Giant whack for Brogan

Dean Brogan was sent straight to the tribunal after an AFL investigation. Picture: Mark Evans Source: Herald Sun

Dean Brogan leave the AFL tribunal. Source: Herald Sun

A WARNING to players on high bumps was reinforced last night with GWS Giants ruckman Dean Brogan suspended for three matches.

Brogan was found guilty of rough conduct against St Kilda midfielder Jack Newnes who needed surgery to repair a fractured jaw yesterday.

It's another massive setback for the Giants preparing to play Melbourne at the MCG on Sunday - key forward Jon Patton is out with a knee injury and midfielder Devon Smith accepted a one-game penalty for rough conduct.

The AFL Tribunal assessed Brogan's hit on Newnes as negligent conduct with high impact and rated it as worth 300 demerit points and the three match penalty.

Brogan argued that he instinctively turned and braced for contact when Newnes deliberately cut across his path as the 201 cms ruckman ran towards the interchange bench midway through the opening quarter at Canberra last Saturday.

"I saw Jack getting ready to come into my path by lowering his centre of gravity to give me a decent bump,'' he said.

"I braced, we collided. I didn't think the contact was that significant. I don't expect to be checked or bumped or hit when you're going to the interchange with the ball so far away.

"It was lucky I saw it otherwise I would've been the one on the ground.''

Brogan said he was shocked when Saint Lenny Hayes told him that Newnes had to be subbed out of the game with concussion at quarter-time when they shook hands at the end of the game.

He said he "made a beeline'' to Newnes to apologise and said he was upset and texted the injured Saint when he heard that an X-ray had revealed a fracture on the right side of the jaw.

Asked by AFL legal counsel Jeff Gleeson where he struck Newnes, Brogan said:"I can't explain where I hit him.'

'The Giants big man said he was "fully aware'' of the league's crackdown on "a lot of stuff'' off the ball.Newnes said in a statement to an AFL investigations officer that "I decided to run over and bump (Brogan) to provide a presence."

He said he felt contact to the jaw, but couldn't be more specific.

"I think I stayed on my feet, but I don't remember too much after that,'' he said.

St Kilda trainer Andrew Waddington told the hearing that he saw the clash as he ran towards Newnes with a drink bottle.

"I saw his (Brogan) shoulder come up. The elbow wasn't out, but considering his height, I believe that's what hit Jack,'' he said.

Medical reports submitted by the Saints said Newnes was "dazed and confused'' when taken off for a formal assessment and eventually subbed out at quarter time.

He was sent for a scan and X-ray after complaining of soreness to the jaw and he's expected to miss at least the next two rounds.

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Varcoe to undergo surgery

Geelong's Travis Varcoe faces up to three months on the sidelines with a serious shoulder injury. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG'S Travis Varcoe's will have shoulder surgery and will not return until late in the season.

Varcoe dislocated his left shoulder in the opening quarter of Saturday night's win against Carlton at Etihad Stadium.

The 26-year-old played just one game last season because of stress fractures in his foot.

"We're expecting the things to happen that we thought would happen," Cats football manager Neil Balme told the AFL website.

"They'll probably do (the operation) pretty much straight away, I would think."

There are a few more injury worries at Geelong.

Midfielder James Kelly is battling a lower leg issue and is only a 50-50 chance to meet Sydney.

While forward Steve Johnson has suffered a knock to his right knee, not the one he just underwent surgery on, and is in some doubt.

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Robinson's emails tracked

High performance manager Dean Robinson. Source: Herald Sun

AFL investigators have examined every email sent by the man who brought disgraced sports scientist Stephen Dank into the league.

The team has analysed all correspondence from high-performance manager Dean Robinson at the three clubs - Geelong, Gold Coast and Essendon - where he has worked since 2007.

Robinson, who was stood down by the Bombers in February, introduced Dank to Windy Hill last year and Dank was placed in charge of the club's supplements program.

Dank worked part-time alongside Robinson at Gold Coast in 2010, but he was never employed by Geelong, where Robinson worked from 2007-10.

The forensic examination involves a search through the computer files of each club.

While the Cats and Suns are yet to officially hear the result of the investigation into their high-performance departments where Robinson played a key role, they are understood to have been cleared of any problems.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou yesterday confirmed the sports science program of every other club in the league had been examined since the Essendon drugs scandal broke.

"We have audited every club's use of supplements, and we've got those results back and we are comfortable with what is being administered at present," Demetriou said.

"We have also banned the use of IVs and we have restricted the use of injections.

"We have asked all people at football clubs to register their backgrounds and their CVs and what sports they have worked in.

"We have gone great lengths to mitigate the risk of this happening again."
 

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My chance to tell the truth: Hird

Essendon coach James Hird says he enjoyed the chance to tell the truth. Source: Herald Sun

Mark Thompson has spoken of the strain James Hird is under as the Essendon coach faces an ASADA investigation.

A DEFIANT James Hird said last night he had enjoyed the chance to "tell the truth" during a marathon interrogation by ASADA investigators.

The embattled Essendon coach spent several hours at AFL House answering questions about his involvement in the drugs scandal that is threatening his career and the careers of his players.

"I welcomed the opportunity to tell the truth today," Hird said in a statement released by his legal firm last night.

It is believed there were no surprises for Hird during the interview, with Hird satisfied he was a step closer to clearing his name.

Investigators track Dean Robinson's emails

The Bombers' former sports scientist, Stephen Dank, has alleged he injected Hird with the peptide Hexarelin, which is banned for players but not coaches.

Dank has also said that Hird had a thorough knowledge of the supplement program implemented for the players that is the focus of the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority investigation.

Essendon has been unable to guarantee its players were not injected with substances that are banned under World Anti-Doping Agency regulations.

The method of supplement delivery, including intravenous injections, is also a key part of the inquiry.

In his statement last night, Hird said: "Today I attended an interview with the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority and the AFL Integrity Officers.

Review clears mainstream injections

"At the interview I fully co-operated and truthfully answered every question that was put to me by the investigators.

"I will not do anything to impede the ASADA and AFL investigation and will continue to co-operate fully."

Hird missed training to attend the meeting, where he was questioned simultaneously by ASADA investigators and the AFL probity team.

ASADA routinely has two of its personnel lead interviews with persons of interest in its probes.

Hird was accompanied by his legal team, including Queen's Counsel Tony Nolan.

Hird a fans' poster boy

Everything said in the interview was recorded and will be used in ASADA's case against the Bombers.

Hird is expected to be interviewed again, with ASADA believed to have slated up to three days to speak with him.
The Bombers' playing list is next on the ASADA schedule, with every player, plus those who have left since last year, to be interviewed in a process that could take months.

Hird was defiant after Friday's victory against Fremantle, repeating his belief that he had done nothing wrong and that he was looking forward to telling his side of the story.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou had strongly hinted that the Bombers coach should stand aside while the investigation took its course.

Yesterday morning, Hird met his lawyersbefore travelling to AFL House.

Asked if he was confident he could clear his name, Hird said: "Yes, mate. I'm feeling good."

He got support from assistant coach Mark Thompson, who said Hird's mind was on the job.

"He is strong. He needs support and care, and he goes up and down, but he's still coaching well and he's a strong man," Thompson said.

Meanwhile, Essendon fans are unlikely to see every word of former Telstra chief Ziggy Switkowski's much-anticipated report on what happened at Windy Hill last year.

Only the recommendations, which could be damning for a number of officials, will be made public.

The AFL will see the entire report, likely to be completed within the next week, but the club believes there are confidentiality issues in regard to the full transcript being released.

Dons fan Switkowski was called in by chairman David Evans in February to do a full review of governance and processes at the club.

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Enough is enough, says Swan

Magpie Dane Swan (centre) at Collingwood training. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Dane Swan in action against Hawthorn last Sunday. Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD superstar Dane Swan has revealed he is trying to repair the public's perception of him but admits the damage may have been done.

The Brownlow Medallist is one of the most talked-about players in the AFL.

Rumours swirled about him over the off-season and it resulted in the high-profile Swan granting Channel Nine's The Footy Show an interview with him without the club's permission.

Speaking on Fox Footy's The Club program ahead of his 200th game against Richmond at the MCG on Saturday, Swan said he is sick of the rumours and wanted to change the perception of him for the sake of his family.

"There is a perception of me out there," he said.

"Whether it's right or whether it's not, I suppose the damage has been done.

"But I'm slowly trying to repair it because I don't like my parents and family listening to talk-back radio and reading social media tweets."

Swan said his family had been hurt by what has been said about him.

"When your mum rings you up and you hear she is upset on the phone, that's when you probably realise that enough is enough," he said.

Swan said the life of an AFL footballler can be a "horrible world" and understands how it could lead to depression.

"I can understand how some AFL players could get depression," he said.

"Sometimes it can be a real horrible world for AFL footballers, even though we do have a great lifestyle.

"Just the media backlash you cop and the social media outbursts and the rants on all the websites and blogs.

"If you didn't have thick skin or you didn't handle negative words really well, I can understand why a player could suffer from depression."

The full interview will air on Fox Footy tonight at 9:30pm.
 

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Ablett injury scare

Gary Ablett could miss Saturday night's clash against Port Adelaide. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

THE SUNS are counting the cost of their Q Clash loss with skipper Gary Ablett and Charlie Dixon waiting on scans to clear them for Saturday's match against Port Adelaide.

And the Lions will again have to construct a makeshift defence to counter the Kangaroos' three tall forwards with Matt Maguire likely to miss another three weeks with a leg injury.

X-rays cleared Ablett of any broken bones in his right hand but was last night sent for MRI scans to see what is causing the pain and swelling.

The injury was troubling Ablett today but he is not even considering the possibility of missing this week's clash with Port Adelaide, coached by his great mate and mentor Ken Hinkley.

"I'll be right,'' he said.

Dixon has an Achilles injury and is considered less likely to be cleared to play.

Maguire's ongoing absence is a major headache for Brisbane who must find opponents for Drew Petrie, Lachie Hansen and Robbie Tarrant.

It was hoped he would only miss the one game but he has now sat out two weeks and football manager Dean Warren said he may not be available until Rd 6 against Sydney.

"He is probably a couple of weeks away at least,'' Warren said.

"Because he has had a fair few issues there during his career, it is just going to take a little bit longer.''

The Lions have a swag of in form players from Sunday's 110 point NEAFL hiding of the Gold Coast's reserves jostling to take on the Kangaroos at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

There will be one forced change with Jared Polec set to miss with an ankle injury.

Warren said the axe was not hovering over veteran Ash McGrath after a slow start to the season but admitted any underperforming players would feel the heat.

"There is pressure on for senior spots,'' he said.

"We have depth, there is a group of guys in the seconds that are playing good consistent footy and pushing for a game.''

One player who is safe as houses is debutant Sam Mayes.

The South Australian product looked right at home at the elite level collecting 21 disposals off a wing while adding two clearances and five inside 50s. He also took 10 marks - all uncontested - to showcase his lauded hard-running ability.

The No.8 draft pick's penetrating right boot also caught the eye in the wet conditions.

"My job was to spread hard and find some space. I was pleased with how I went and hopefully I can keep improving,'' he said.

"It will be a test next week against North Melbourne to back-up from this week and crack in again.''

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Hird confronts drugs investigators

Essendon coach James Hird could be banned by the AFL if found guilty using a banned substance. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

ESSENDON coach James Hird will not be under oath when he faces drugs investigators for the first time today.

But he nevertheless would face tough penalties if found not to have told the truth.

Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority officers are probing claims that players received banned intravenous injections -- one of several concerns raised about the club's sports science regimen last year.

Sports scientist Stephen Dank has said that during his time at Essendon he injected Hird with the performance-enhancing drug Hexarelin, which is banned for players.

The AFL Anti-Doping Code demands players and coaches must:

FULLY co-operate with any investigation.

FULLY and truthfully answer all questions.

PROVIDE documents if requested.

Players and coaches who fail to do this face a minimum $10,000 fine. If a breach of this section is referred to the AFL Tribunal by the league, there is no limit on the sanction that can be applied.

The code prohibits coaches from supplying and administering performance-enhancing drugs, but not from taking them.

The AFL can sanction anyone it believes has brought the game into disrepute.

Evidence gathered by ASADA would ultimately come before the AFL Tribunal if the agency found players or officials had a case to answer.

Former ASADA chief Richard Ings said: "In the infraction notice (from the AFL), it will say ASADA has told the AFL that you have a case to answer for breaching these provisions of the anti-doping rules; the penalty for this breach is a ban, or whatever -- two years, say; you have an opportunity now to either accept the ban, or to request a hearing before the AFL anti-doping panel.

"The hearing, the tribunal, is held by the AFL.

"ASADA would be the counsel prosecuting the case, because they've got the evidence, and the player and his attorney would be the defence."

Hird is expected to be accompanied by a lawyer, or lawyers, today.

Under common ASADA practices:

THE interview would be conducted by two ASADA officials.

AN investigator from the AFL's integrity office could attend and ask questions.

THE interview would be recorded.

Hird is not bound by privacy laws and can share anything from the interview.

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