Bird disappointed by Prince move

Disappointing ... Scott Prince will be sorely missed on and off the field by the Titans. Source: Steve Pohlner / News Limited

Gold Coast Titans back-rower Greg Bird farewelled two Princes in the past fortnight, one which left the Test and Origin enforcer star struck - the other simply left him disappointed.

Bird, who was left flustered by His Royal Highness Prince Charles at a beach touch football game on Friday, admits he is disappointed at Scott Prince's messy departure from the Titans.

Prince, the inaugural Gold Coast captain, was recently released from the his contract before signing with local rivals Brisbane.

That surprise connection surfaced after the 32-year-old seemed destined to finish his career in the English Super League with Hull.

The whole scenario left Bird, who admits he is not privy to the full negotiations, upset at losing the team's on-field general and his mate.

"I think it's disappointing," Bird said.

"It's always disappointing when it comes to this time of year and your teammates leave the club and have to move on to greener pastures.

"But that's rugby league. You can't play for the same team your whole career. That's never going to happen."

Bird refuses to lay the blame at the feet of Prince, but said he expects the full story to surface in good time.

"Princey did what he thought was best for his career. I've got nothing bad to say about him," Bird said.

"I'm not too sure of the finer details of how it went down. That's something for the club and him to discuss.

"I'm sure it will come out in the wash.

"For now I'm just happy he's picked up another gig and he's got another two years in the game."

Bird was already thinking about the reception awaiting his former teammate when the two teams clash, which will happen in a trial match at Redcliffe on February 16.

"I'm looking forward to running at him next year," he joked. 

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Victory comeback stuns Sydney

Hero ... Andrew Nabbout (C) celebrates with Melbourne Victory fans after their comeback win. Source: AAP

Melbourne Victory heaped more pain on Sydney FC, coming from two goals down to score a thrilling 3-2 A-League win on Saturday night.

Eager to put last week's horror 7-2 thrashing by Central Coast behind them, the Sky Blues looked set to post a much-needed win after taking a 2-0 lead in front of 21,531 fans at Allianz Stadium.

But two goals by impressive teenage substitute Andrew Nabbout and another by Archie Thompson inside the last 12 minutes gave Ange Postecoglou's side a memorable win.

The Victory had dominated possession for most of the match but the Sky Blues looked set to profit from making the most of their chances.

		P	W	D	L	GD	Pts
1	Adelaide	5	4	0	1	5	12
2	Newcastle	6	4	0	2	1	12
3	Central Coast	5	3	1	1	6	10
4	Perth	5	3	0	2	2	9
5	Victory	6	3	0	3	-4	9
6	Heart	6	2	1	3	0	7
7	Western Sydney	6	2	1	3	-1	7
8	Sydney	6	2	0	4	-7	6
9	Wellington	5	1	2	2	-1	5
10	Brisbane	6	1	1	4	-1	4

An early goal to impressive Panamanian striker Yairo Yau and Dutch defender Pascal Bosschaart's first ever professional goal in the second half looked to have them on course for three competition points.

Sydney welcomed back star signing Alessandro Del Piero after he sat out the loss to the Mariners with a hamstring complaint, and Italian delivered a classy performance before being substituted in the 66th minute - a decision Sky Blues coach Ian Crook may regret in hindsight.

With Bosschaart and Fabio back from injury too, Crook also promoted Blake Powell to the starting line-up and the home side looked determined from the outset.

It didn't take them long to capitalise, with Yau opening the scoring for the second straight week.

Del Piero played Powell into space and the 21-year-old youngster did brilliantly in cutting the ball back to set up Yau for a simple tap-in.

Victory captain Adrian Leijer and Sydney's Seb Ryall were forced off the field midway through the first half after a sickening head clash but were both able to continue after some treatment and heavy bandaging.

The visitors grew into the game throughout the first half, with only a brilliant 44th-minute save by Ivan Necevski preserving Sydney's 1-0 lead at halftime.

Melbourne appeared to start the second half with purpose but Sydney doubled their advantage against the run of play in the 48th minute.

Some more Del Piero trickery led to a Sky Blues corner and, after the Victory failed to clear, Bosschaart struck a sweet first-time volley that Necevski failed stop.

It was the 32-year-old's first goal in almost 400 games played in the Netherlands and Australia.

Victory almost pulled one back in the 56th minute with Necevski's fingertip save denying Marco Rojas from close range.

Teenager Nabbout gave the visitors hope with a brilliant curling finish to set up a nail-biting finish and the home crowd were stunned as the Victory came home like a train.

Thompson struck with a header in the 86th minute to level the scores before Nabbout capped a spectacular performance off the bench with the winner, a pin-point header from Gui Finkler's corner in stoppage time.

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Relive the match with all the highlights and stats that matter in our A-League Match Centre.

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New ball key to Aussie hopes

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Hope ... James Pattinson and his fellow quicks have to take advantage of the second new ball. Source: Adam Head / News Limited

Disappointed coach Mickey Arthur has demanded Australia's pacemen learn from their day one mistakes and make the most of the second new-ball when the Brisbane rain clears on Sunday.

Not one ball was bowled on day two of the first Test at the Gabba but Arthur was still ruing a poor start by his attack which he rated too tentative and short against a top-notch South African top-order.

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The Proteas will resume their first innings at 2-255 on Sunday with Hashim Amla (90 not out) and Jacques Kallis (84 not out) both eying centuries and the tourists looking for a 500-plus total.

James Pattinson was the only quick to taste success on a green Gabba track, curling back an inswinger to trap Graeme Smith leg before in the opening hour on Friday.

1st Test - Gabba

9 November 2012 - Day 2, Session 3

South Africa 1st Innings

H. Amla	90	207	6	1	43.48
J. Kallis	84	135	8	1	62.22
M. Hussey	4	0	21	0	5.25

Arthur felt Australia's attack could still make in-roads into a middle-order missing injured No.7 JP Duminy but his quicks couldn't afford to repeat their day one execution.

"It probably wasn't good enough,'' he said. "I thought we got our lengths wrong. I think we needed to be a little bit fuller.

"We weren't as clinical as we have been or as we would hope to be.

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"We weren't able to put South Africa under pressure for long enough.

"Maybe we were a little bit tentative and maybe we just wanted to get through that first session and see how it unfolded after that.

"We've still got the second new ball up our sleeve, that's the one trump we have. We have to make that second new ball work for us.''

Saturday's wash-out was the first time in 14 years rain had prevented any play in a Test on Australian soil and the first time in 29 years at the Gabba.

Day two was abandoned 90 minutes before scheduled stumps and the only action for Australian players was serving at merchandise stands and signing autographs.

The tourists' opening-day dominance was badly tarnished by the loss of Duminy for the three-Test series after he ruptured his achilles tendon in a freak post-stumps training mishap.

The left-hander underwent surgery on Saturday morning and South Africa coach Gary Kirsten confirmed they would call for a replacement to join the tour party in the coming days.

South Africa A opener Dean Elgar, who has played five one-day internationals, is expected to be preferred ahead of former vice-captain Ashwell Prince.

Former Proteas coach Arthur described Duminy's injury - which will sideline him for six months - as a "tragedy''.

"He's an unbelievably talented cricketer,'' he said.

"I feel really sorry for him and my thoughts go out to JP.''

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Les Bleus will be brutal: Burgess

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Brutal ... the Wallabies can expect a physical encounter when they take on France. Source: Christophe Ena / AP

They may be a new-look team but the same, formidable Gallic passion will fuel a hugely physical French effort against the Wallabies in Paris tomorrow morning.

That's the verdict of former Wallabies halfback Luke Burgess, who has spent the last year in close contract with Les Bleus players after joining powerhouse club Toulouse.

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It wouldn't be a France Test week without the words "unpredictable", "dangerous" and "enigmatic" being trotted out, and the uncertainty about Les Bleus only heightened yesterday when new coach Philippe Saint Andre named an unfamiliar side to play Australia.

Making good on his promises of change, Saint Andre picked a starting team with only two survivors from the Wallabies' 59-16 win on their last trip to Stade de France in 2010.

New faces are dotted throughout the team due to injuries, retirements or axings of many veterans who helped France almost win the World Cup last year.

But based on his experiences in Europe, Burgess has warned the Wallabies the French players are "quietly confident" they can see them snap a six-game losing streak to Australia.

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"It's a strong squad. There is a massive core of Clermont and Toulouse players, who play together all the time," Burgess said.

"They play a lot of football over here, they're very experienced.

"As a group they are capable of anything. You saw the way they played against the All Blacks, they can basically beat any team in the world on their day."

Burgess, who played 37 Tests for Australia, said the French style of rugby was far different from southern hemisphere rugby, but it shouldn't be under-estimated.

"I don't know what its like to play for France but playing club rugby here, they're extremely passionate," Burgess said.

"They're not scared of anyone, that's for sure."I have been impressed with how strong (French rugby) is. A lot of people in the south don't understand what it's like and they bag it, they think it's ugly.

"But rugby is played differently in the north, and if you come up here and try and play southern hemisphere rugby, you'll get surprised. Like Australia has on the last few Spring Tours."

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Catch all the action as Australia take on France, Live and in High Definition, from 6.45am Sunday (EDT) on Fox Sports 1HD.

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Skipper Thierry Dusatoir is among a handful of experienced players injured, but the likes of Willie Servat, Lionel Nallet have retired and former stalwarts like Aurelien Rougerie and Yannick Jauzion were overlooked in Saint Andre's vision to re-build.

Goal-kicking halfback Morgan Parra was benched for Maxime Machinaud, speedy Clermont centre Wesley Fofana was moved to the wing and 30-year-old prop Yannick Forestier given a debut.

Only flanker Fulgence Ouedrago and prop Nicolas Mas remain from the 2010 match.

French rugby was sent into a spin after Australia's heavy win, but somehow, despite a chaotic World Cup campaign, Les Bleus made the final and were arguably unlucky to lose in the final.

Burgess believes the French are in better shape now than last year.

"They seem to have galvanized themselves (with the World Cup result)," he said.

"I think they have improved. There is quiet confidence, and are very determined. It just has that feel about it.

"It will be a tough match. I reckon it will be really physical. There are pretty much contrasting styles of rugby, a lot will depend on the ref; what does he want to see? Does he want to see a contest at the breakdown or does he want to see the ball liberated?"

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Harris wants more tries in Test rugby

Kick start ... Mike Harris is hoping experimental rules will lead to more tries. Source: Adam Head / News Limited

Fans wanting more tries in Test rugby have an ally in Wallabies' goal-kicker Mike Harris, who is hoping experimental laws in Saturday's (Sunday EDT) Test against France will help open up the game.

The rule change of particular interest to back-lines is at the breakdown where an attacking side will have five seconds to use the ball or lose it.

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Robbie Deans' team has been widely criticised for their lack of tries with the Australians scoring just 12 five-pointers in 11 Tests this year.

Their past outing, a tryless 18-18 draw with the All Blacks, developed into a virtual goal-kicking competition between New Zealand's Dan Carter and Harris.

But Harris said he and the rest of the Wallabies' back-line are hoping to find plenty of space at Stade de France for the European tour opener.

"Test rugby is lacking in a few tries these days, so that'd be nice to score a few here,'' Harris said.

"Defences are pretty strong these days and if there's anything to help the attacking team, then that's exciting and good for the game of rugby.

"The intention of the five-second 'use it' call is to speed up the game. It's going to be interesting to see how it goes.

"Conditions permitting, it's a bit colder here and there'll be a bit of dew on the grass but, when we get the opportunity, we'd definitely like to attack and really have a go.

"We've come up with a few different backs moves that we're going to try.''

Harris is also hoping a fired up and physical French side might leave a few holes in their defensive line as they look to put the Wallabies under pressure.

"With a defensive system, for every strength there is a weakness. If you're going to take really fast line speed and try and shut teams down, then there's going to be opportunities to get stepped and broken through,'' he said.

Another of the law changes being used in Tests for the first time comes at scrums with the dreaded "crouch, touch, pause, engage'' call replaced with "crouch, touch, set''. A change has also been made on quick lineouts.

A player can throw the ball in anywhere between the line of touch and the player's goalline, and the lineout. The French have been playing under these laws for several months in the Top 14 competition.

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Heart surge as Roar brushed aside

Celebrate ... Melbourne Heart's Patrick Gerhardt scores his team's first goal. Source: George Salpigtidis / News Limited

Reigning champions Brisbane Roar have slumped to the bottom of the A-League table on the back of a 4-1 thrashing which lifted Melbourne Heart into the top six.

Friday night's win at AAMI Park lifted the Heart off the bottom in emphatic style, leaving the Roar in last spot and on a three-match losing streak.

The home side led 1-0 at the break thanks to a 20th minute goal from defender Patrick Gerhardt which capitalised on his side's early dominance as they continually stripped the Roar of the ball in their own half.

The momentum turned the Roar's way late in the first half as they regained their composure and produced some nice passing chains to cause the Heart some nervous moments.

They were unlucky not to level in the 40th minute.

A desperate Mitch Nichols did superbly to keep the ball from going over the end line, knocking it back for Henrique to seemingly score, only for it to be incorrectly awarded a goal kick.

Brisbane continued pressing early in the second half, before the game turned decisively with the Heart scoring three times in 12 minutes.

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Relive the clash, with all the key stats and highlights, at our A-League Match Centre.

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The first of those came in the 62nd minute to former Socceroo Richard Garcia, after some beautiful set-up work from Croatian attacker Josip Tadic, who worked his way into the box then laid it off for the Australian.

Garcia returned the favour nine minutes later, winning a penalty from a loose tackle by Matthew Jurman, with Tadic converting from the spot.

Substitute David Williams made it a four-goal lead within three minutes, breaking free on a swift counterattack then ramming home a curling right-footer.

Henrique bagged a consolation goal in the 82nd minute, the Roar's first in three games.

The loss caused Roar coach Rado Vidosic, who took over from dual-championship coach Ange Postecoglou ahead of this season, to question his players' desire to perform.

"There was no heart in our play,'' Vidosic told reporters.

"It was probably the worst performance we've seen from this lot in two-and-a-half years.''

But he said he had no cause to question whether his taking over, after Postecoglou left the club to join Melbourne Victory, had led to the slump.

"I'm not questioning my ability because I've been at the club for seven years and I've been part of the last few years of our success, the same as the players,'' Vidosic said.

"I'm hungry, I want to achieve even more.''

Roar captain Matt Smith was adamant the players still had hunger to succeed, but struggled to explain why it was not on show on Friday night.

"On behalf of the players we need to apologise A, to our coach, B, to our club, C, to our fans,'' Smith said.

"Tonight was, to me, probably the lowest point I've had at the club.

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Proteas put 'peg in the ground'

Opening up ... Alviro Petersen pulled out a reverse sweep against Nathan Lyon. Source: Dave Hunt / AAP

Hashim Amla and Jacques Kallis became South Africa's greatest scoring partnership as the Proteas seized control on day one of the first Brisbane Test on Friday.

The pair ended the day having made an unbeaten century stand and when bad light stopped play eight overs before scheduled stumps, South Africa were 255 for two with Amla unbeaten on 90 and Kallis providing solid support on 84.

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Kallis previously held his country's aggregate record with current coach Gary Kirsten at 3592 runs in partnerships throughout 64 Tests, and has now surpassed that with Amla following their 136-run partnership for the third wicket.

At day's end, the pair had accumulated 3607 runs together in their 58th Test while Amla, the number one-ranked Test batsman, passed 5000 Test runs.

"We wanted to really put our peg in the ground and I think we did that really well,'' opening batsman Alviro Petersen said.

"Two wickets down, we're in a comfortable position but tomorrow's going to be really important, to back that up and make sure today's work doesn't go to waste.''

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Michael Clarke used six bowlers - even the modest medium pace of debutant Rob Quiney - in a bid to winkle a breakthrough.

"You can make excuses, but we probably lacked a bit of penetration and a bit of consistency and our maiden count was the big thing,'' paceman James Pattinson said.

"When it's not playing as much as you would like, you probably want to dry up the runs a bit and we probably didn't do that.''

Australia earlier left out paceman Mitchell Starc and went with the spin of Nathan Lyon while the Proteas gave Rory Kleinveldt his Test debut in a four-strong pace attack.

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'Flynn factor' overpowers Sixers

Impact ... Jonny Flynn stars on debut for Melbourne Tigers against Adelaide 36ers. Source: Wayne Ludbey / News Limited

The "Flynn Factor" was huge last night at Hisense Arena as Melbourne played Harlem Globetrotters to Adelaide's Washington Generals in a humiliating 96-66 NBL rout.

Merely the presence of new Tigers signing and 2009 No.6 NBA draft pick Jonny Flynn lifted Melbourne as it put on a show after a slight opening stutter where the 36ers looked like making a game of it.

In what was the 6000th game in NBL history, Melbourne turned around a 23-point loss to the Sixers in the season opener behind 24 points from Chris Goulding and an 18-point, 10-rebound double by import Seth Scott.

The worry again for Adelaide fans was not the loss so much as the manner of its ultimately meek capitulation, hardly inspiring to view with Perth Wildcats in town at Adelaide Arena on Saturday.

Flynn had 12 points on 4-of-17 shooting, 10 assists and eight rebounds to generate players running around him.

Adam Gibson started on him, Jason Cadee spent time defending him as well before Mitch Creek had a crack at the former Minnesota Timberwolves playmaker.

It was not so much what Flynn did, what he created or how he shot. It was what his confidence and ball assurity did to his Tiger team-mates who had lost four straight games before last round's win over Townsville.

The Tigers looked overly "Flynn-conscious" early but after Adelaide snuck to a 7-5 lead, they started to settle.

Goulding took it upon himself to take control of Melbourne's offence, grabbing a defensive board and driving forward to strike a jumpshot.

Flynn, who had fed Scott and Goulding for earlier buckets, slipped a sweet pass to Liam Rush and Melbourne had the lead.

Goulding continued to dominate, finishing with 11 points in the first quarter as Adelaide's offence spluttered, needing individual efforts.

By the first break, Melbourne was ahead 19-14 despite Flynn off to a 0-of-5 shooting night, Adelaide with Gibson on two early fouls and the signs already worrying.

Anthony Petrie swished a triple to start the second period scoring but whenever the 36ers threatened, Melbourne had the answers.

Flynn was given a charity trip to the free throw line at 8:31 with a dubious foul against Cadee to open his scoring with two genuine freebies.

But Melbourne was playing with greater purpose, Luke Schenscher battling for three offensive rebounds in succession around four shot attempts before the Tigers fouled him.

An open jumpshot by Gibson with 3:02 to the break kept the 36ers in touch at 30-35.

But Flynn clearly identified Adam Ballinger as a quality jumpshooter and Scott as a reliable scorer.

He fed Scott for 37-30, missed a drive which Rush tipped in, then hit Ballinger with a dish for 41-30, Adelaide reeling.

That stayed the buffer to half-time and a 13-4 run to start the third made this academic, Flynn passing to Scott for a dunk, Goulding hitting a three in transition and Melbourne putting on a show.

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Follow first Test with our live blog

Tussle ... Graeme Smith and Michael Clarke are ready to lead their men into battle. Source: Tertius Pickard / AAP

The stage is set for a fiery encounter with plenty of pace when the first Test between Australia and South Africa gets underway at the Gabba on Friday morning.

The fuse was well and truly lit on Thursday when Australia's "secret dossier" on the Proteas players was released, or leaked, or perhaps discovered by the media, although coach Mickey Arthur and captain Michael Clarke denied any knowledge of it.

Even without the dossier, the facts of the series are clear. Australia and South Africa have impressive pace bowling attacks, and both sides could be tempted to go with four quick bowlers at the Gabba at the expense of Nathan Lyon and Imran Tahir respectively - although at this stage that seems unlikely.

Coming in at No.3 for Australia will be Test debutant Rob Quiney, rounding out a top three the Proteas will look to target early on.

The first session will be all-important, with whichever team bats first sure to undergo a baptism of fire on the bouncy Brisbane wicket.

Will Australia go with four quicks, or trust the spin of Nathan Lyon? Will South Africa's pace attack live up to the hype?

Join foxsports.com.au for a LIVE and INTERACTIVE blog of every day of the Test summer, beginning on Friday morning. Return to this page from 10.30am Friday (EDT) to follow the day one action.

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Langer's our No.1 target: WACA

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Justin Langer ... is the top candidate to take over as WACA coach. Source: Lincoln Baker / News Limited

The Western Australia Cricket Association (WACA) has confirmed Justin Langer is their No.1 target in the search for a new coach.

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Lachlan Stevens resigned as coach of the Western Australia and Perth Scorchers cricket teams on Wednesday, citing personal reasons.

The board met on Wednesday night and identified Langer as its preferred candidate for both roles.

Langer, Australia's batting coach, is with the national team in Brisbane for the first Test against South Africa.

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WACA chief executive Christina Matthews issued a statement on Thursday, saying discussions with the former WA captain will be put on hold until the first Test ends.

"We respect Justin has a very important job to do over the next five days," Matthews said.

"We will therefore allow him to concentrate on that task before we intend to speak with him about the position of Warriors and Scorchers head coach, and hope to make a positive announcement shortly after the completion of the Brisbane Test."

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Stevens' resignation capped a tumultuous month for the WACA, who have been dealing with the fallout of a boozy night out in South Africa that overshadowed the Scorchers' Champions League Twenty20 campaign.

Marcus North recently stood down as captain of Western Australia and the Scorchers, citing his own form issues rather than any off-field culture concerns.

Adam Voges was endorsed as North's successor at Wednesday night's WACA board meeting.

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The Warriors have copped three-day thrashings in each of their three Sheffield Shield games this season, suggesting the state will struggle to break a title drought that stretches back to 2004.

Assistant coach Adam Griffith will take the reins for WA's first-class fixture against South Australia, which begins at the WACA Ground on Monday.

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland said they would not stand in Langer's way if he chose to grab the WA coaching reins.

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"If he was to look to greener pastures that would be a loss to us but not a loss for Australian cricket because he would do a fantastic job in that role and it would be a great career step for him," he said in Brisbane on Thursday.

"It would create a short term issue for us but overall it would be a good thing for Australian cricket."

Sutherland saw a silver lining to the WACA's current troubles.

"It is certainly a concern but they are a matter for the WACA," he said of their tumultuous month.

"They are working through that.

"And there are open lines of communication between the WACA and Cricket Australia on these sorts of things - I am sure collectively solutions can be found.

"I actually see these sorts of things as a positive because it provides a rude awakening for people to act and make decisions that will see teams and organisations better for what comes out of it."

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'Tomic troubles just a hiccup'

Encouragement ... Ken Rosewell thinks Bernard Tomic will hit back. Source: Mark Evans / News Limited

Ken Rosewall says he is hopeful Bernard Tomic's recent troubles on and off the court prove to be just a hiccup on his way to a successful professional career.

Since emerging as Australian men's tennis' next great hope, Tomic's career has stalled badly as he's endured poor form, allegations of tanking and a number of run-ins with the law.

However, tennis great Rosewall said he is confident Tomic can turn all of that around.

"He is only 20 so let's hope that he will learn from his mistakes," Rosewall said on Thursday.

"I think Bernard has realised he needs to work hard on his game, his attitude towards the game, his physique and his movement around the court. That's what's going to help him become a much better player.

"I would like to think it (Tomic's problems) is a hiccup for him."

Tomic's world ranking has slumped from a high of 27 to 51 and he failed to beat a higher-ranked opponent since the Australian Open in January.

He faced court on the Gold Coast on Monday and was found guilty of failing to stop for police, fined $1000 and placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond.

Speaking at the launch of the Asia-Pacific Tennis League, a new tournament aimed at re-energising the playing ranks of Australian tennis, Rosewall said Tomic faces a steep learning curve.

"He has done well pretty much up to this year and I think he now knows he has a lot to learn," Rosewall said.

"He has gone through a bad time now for various reasons. Hopefully he can get over that and work much harder on his game and become a better player."

Tomic was seen as a disruptive element as Australia crashed out of the Davis Cup World Group in losing to Germany in September. But Rosewall said the team environment of Davis Cup could be Tomic's saviour.

"If he spends more time in the Australian team that camaraderie could really help him. That team environment has played a large part in the success of Australian tennis in the past and it is something that Bernard could really use," he said.

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Bjorn leads rain-hit Singapore Open

Thomas Bjorn ... has made a good start to the Singapore Open. Source: AAP

Denmark's Thomas Bjorn held a one-shot clubhouse lead in the $US6 million ($A5.79 million) Singapore Open on Thursday as a thunderstorm halted play with half the field yet to complete the first round.

World No.1 Rory McIlroy, level-par through eight holes, was among 78 players affected by the overnight suspension - which came after officials said they'd like to change the event's dates because of its notorious weather delays.

Bjorn shot a scintillating five-under-par 66 at the demanding par-71 Sentosa Golf Club to lead England's Simon Khan, Chinnarat Phadungsil of Thailand and Spain's Pablo Martin by a stroke.

England's Paul Casey continued his hot run of recent form to lie two off the pace at three-under-par 68, alongside South Korean major-winner YE Yang and Thai pair Kwanchai Tannin and Chapchai Nirat.

Australia's world No.6 Adam Scott, a three-time winner, carded a par 71 to be tied for 38th in the tournament co-sanctioned by the European and Asian Tours.

America's Phil Mickelson, sporting bright pink trousers, crashed to a 73 including a double-bogey on the par-three 14th hole, when it took him two shots to get his ball one yard out of thick rough and on to the green.

Bjorn carded six birdies against one bogey for his best opening round since February as the Ryder Cup vice-captain seeks his first tournament victory of the year.

"It's not the longest golf course in the world so if you can keep it in the fairway, you can produce a score, and I did that very well today. That's only round one, so we'll work from here," he said.

The early group played in sauna heat but after McIlroy, watched by his tennis star girlfriend Caroline Wozniacki, had shot two birdies sandwiched between two bogeys, dark clouds gathered and play was stopped due to the risk of lightning.

Players will be back on the course at 7:30am (10.30am AEDT) on Friday with organisers hoping to cram one-and-a-half rounds into one day.

Italy's Edoardo Molinari hit the best shot so far with a hole in one on the par-three 17th - but without being awarded the expensive car which was on display by the tee.

"I hit a six iron 188 yards. We had a decent view of it - it pitched just short of the hole and all of a sudden the people behind the green started to scream and clap," Molinari said.

"There is a BMW car on the tee there but luckily I read on the noticeboard on Tuesday that it was only for display."

Earlier the tournament's promoters admitted they were considering holding the event at a different time of year to prevent storm delays. Last year, it finished on the Monday morning - even after being cut to three rounds.

"Frankly, as far as I'm concerned all bets are off," said Chris Jordan, a senior official with World Sport Group.

"Nothing's a given but we will look at dates because seriously, we can't afford to have too much bad luck on one date any more."

Organisers are still searching for a title sponsor for next year's edition of the event, sometimes referred to as "Asia's Major", after British bank Barclays declined to renew their current deal.

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AFL ditches top-10 draft countdown

Revealed ... Last year eight of the top 10 draft picks went to Greater Western Sydney. Source: Gregg Porteous / News Limited

The AFL has ditched their top-10 countdown for revealing clubs' national draft choices.

For the past three years, the first 10 draft picks in the league's biggest annual recruiting meeting have been conducted behind closed doors then revealed in reverse order.

But for the November 22 draft on the Gold Coast, picks will be announced in their correct sequence.

The countdown method was designed to add a sense of drama to the event.

But there was little suspense last year, given AFL newcomers Greater Western Sydney had eight of the first 10 picks, including the top five.

And the eventual No.1 pick, Jonathon Patton, had been widely forecast before the draft.

The Giants have the opening three picks in this year's draft, having been handed the top choice as wooden spooners this year and traded recruiting concessions for the next two selections.

They are expected to take Victorian midfielder Lachie Whitfield at No.1.

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Young Socceroos set to progress

Young Socceroos ... are in a good position to advance at the AFC under 19 championships. Source: Ricardo Mazalan / AP

The Young Socceroos need only a draw to reach the knockout stage of the AFC under 19 Championship in the United Arab Emirates after a 1-1 result with Syria on Tuesday.

The Australians' second clash was scoreless until midway through the second half when Syria broke the deadlock through Al Mawas, who received a long pass and shot past Australian goalkeeper Paul Izzo.

The Young Socceroos were able to equalise in the 81st minute after Ryan Williams beat three defenders down the right side. He then worked his way into the box and cut the ball back to Corey Gameiro, who finished past the keeper to the near post.

Gameiro had a chance to net the winner a minute later after Williams again played him into a goal-scoring position but the shot went wide.

Syria and Australia top Group D on four points each after two rounds, the Young Socceroos enjoying a first-up win over Qatar.

In their final group match, the Young Socceroos face Saudi Arabia who were thrashed 5-1 by Syria.

Young Socceroos' coach Paul Okon was pleased with his team's overall performance.

"We were a bit tentative in the first 10-15 minutes as we knew Syria would come out and attack early which they did. We dealt with it and, at the same time, we played some good football and started to dominate the game," said Okon.

"After the game, I emphasised to the players that this is just another step towards qualifying for the FIFA Under-20 World Cup.

"The performance tonight was outstanding and we need to continue this in the next match against Saudi Arabia."

The Young Socceroos' match against Saudi Arabia will kick off on Thursday November 8 at 5pm (midnight EDT).

The top two teams from each group progress to the quarter-finals, with the semi-finalists automatically qualifying for the under 20 World Cup in Turkey next June and July.

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Vics score bonus-point win over WA

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Aaron Finch ... was unbeaten in Victoria's run chase against Western Australia. Source: Michael Dodge / News Limited

Western Australia need a coach and a captain and could do with a slice of luck after a series of close calls went in Victoria's favour in Wednesday's one-day clash at the MCG.

ODD - Melbourne Cricket Ground

7 November 2012 - Day 1, Session 2

Victoria 1st Innings

A. Finch	80	89	10	1	89.89
G. Maxwell	58	53	3	3	109.43
H. Cartwright	5.2	0	33	1	6.19

The Warriors chose to bat and were skittled for 181 as Victoria cruised to victory with 1-185 in reply from 33.2 overs, claiming a bonus point.

Aaron Finch (80 not out) and Glenn Maxwell (58 not out) both scored half-centuries and shared an unbroken 111-run stand for the second wicket.

It's Western Australia's second loss in three matches, while the Bushrangers move to 15 points on top of the table.

Finch was given out lbw for one in the first over of Victoria's innings but the batsman was recalled after third umpire Geoff Joshua viewed replays indicating the delivery from Mitchell Johnson would have gone over the stumps.

Chris Rogers (27) and Finch added 74 for the first wicket and the arrival of Maxwell brought more controversy.

Maxwell was caught behind and lbw in the space of two overs but both times umpire Joshua over-ruled the decision.

On 13, Maxwell was given not out by the third umpire after replays showed it was an extremely close call for a run-out appeal.

A furious Johnson, who thought he had dismissed Maxwell for one, reached speeds of 146 km/h and beat Maxwell for sheer pace several times.

Maxwell capitalised on his good fortune, hitting three sixes in his 53-ball innings including one which travelled over long-on for 97 metres.

"I didn't know the third umpire could call back the players," Johnson said.

"I wasn't happy about it for sure but that's just the way it is."

Earlier, Jayde Herrick claimed a career-best 5-51, leading the attack in a fine display after Victoria's one-day international representative Clint McKay limped off during his seventh over with a right-hamstring injury.

Mitchell Marsh (51) and stand-in captain Adam Voges (18) added 55 for the fifth wicket but Herrick struck in three consecutive overs, removing Voges, debutant Hilton Cartwright (four) and Marsh.

"It was a good little deck there to bowl on," Herrick said.

"I was pretty ecstatic to get five."

Medium-pacer John Hastings grabbed 3-37.

Marcus North quit as Western Australia's skipper last week and Lachlan Stevens announced he's moving on as coach following Wednesday's match.

Western Australia have endured three-day thrashings in each of their three Sheffield Shield games this season, while a boozy night out in South Africa for Mitchell Marsh's 21st birthday overshadowed the Perth Scorchers' Champions League T20 campaign.

North skipped Wednesday's game because of a family illness.

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'The pressure is on' says BBL chief

Revamped ... The new-look Big Bash League mirrors the colour and pageantry of American sport. Source: AAP

Cricket Australia revamped its flagship Twenty20 competition, known as the Big Bash League as of last season, with state teams replaced by franchises, a bright colour palette and a level of hype and hyperactivity more X-Games than gentleman's game.

CA looked to the United States, world leaders in fan engagement, and brought a new experience to an old sport. It was a risk, and they were panned by many in the establishment media, who gagged at the mere mention of "franchise" and "cricket" in the same sentence.

CA found a new home for it on Fox Sports, who took a fresh look at the production. The teams' media reps brought fresh enthusiasm and a lot of fun to the concept, and most players embraced it too.

David Warner's Test commitments kept him from playing a significant on-field role but he joined the spirit off it, stripping down to the waist to pose on a magazine cover, photoshopped to look like the Incredible Hulk.

State teammates found themselves on rival city franchises and engaged in excited banter for our entertainment on Twitter.

There were some issues with availability, and some squads appeared to become desperately thin with the big boys missing.

But it was a hit, a Chris Gayle-sized hit. Average audience ratings on Fox Sports were up over 80 per cent on the previous state-based T20 competition. Attendance for all BBL matches was 550,328 (80 per cent greater than the previous record) and 10 per cent of fans were attending their first cricket match.

The freshness of the concept resulted in an estimated $94.5m in media exposure value against $13m in 2011 and that brought a significant rise in national awareness. It was an online success, too, with more than a million visits to the Big Bash website.

The man in charge of delivering a successful competition is BBL Manager Anthony Everard.

BBL|01 was a massive hit, what was driving that success?

Anthony Everard: The fact that we play our games at a great time of year, that the games are scheduled through the middle of the school holiday period when people have time on their hands, that it's a value for money proposition and once you are there it's three hours of non-stop entertainment.

The anecdotal feedback and the deeper research indicates people who go to games have a fun experience and that's why it has such strong appeal.

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We're happy with the results from year one but there's upside as well. We play in big venues and we want to make sure those seats are filled. There's no question we have gotten off to a great start but there's no doubt we have greater aspirations for the future.

Were the results for season one above your expectations, and is there a pressure now to push on further?

AE: There's no question we were delighted with a lot of the metrics from the first year of the Big Bash. It's always difficult when launching a new competition to set realistic expectations. But almost without exception – attendances, TV ratings, the overall interest levels and positive feedback and momentum – it's fair to say we were ahead of our expectations.

To a certain degree the pressure is on us to better that. In the first year you have the luxury of not knowing where the numbers will end up. We now have record pay TV ratings and a number of venues had sold out games. There is no question we have on-going high expectations for the Big Bash.

There was some snobbery directed at the competition last season. Should that disappear now?

AE: People are always going to be entitled to their opinions and any time you launch a new league you'll get a variety of feedback. The important thing for us was to try and make people understand why the BBL was launched the way it was last year. We had a product available that broadens the appeal of our sport. Cricket is fortunate to have three forms of the game and each has different levels of interest from different demographics.

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We wanted to make sure via the Big Bash that we got more young people, families and females involved in the game. We've had some good success, albeit in a short time, and we're confident the strategy is the right one.

There is a distinct American accent to what you are doing, with bands and kiss-cams. You recently joined some other CA staff on a fact-finding mission to the US and have hired American consultants. What is the strategy there?

AE: What is particularly appealing to us from what the US leagues and teams have done is the way they focus their events, and experiences of the events, around the requirements of their fans. One of the key priorities of the BBL is that fans are central to what we do.

We consider ourselves very much an entertainment proposition and believe fans come to the games to have a great experience. We have looked at the States – Major League Baseball,  LA Galaxy games in MLS and the X-Games are all events we attended. It was a great opportunity to see how those American sports make fans a central part of the entertainment experience, through a number of ways – vision screens, the way they bring fans into the venues.

We expect to see at the upcoming BBL a number of initiatives the teams have learned from that and can adapt to give our fans a greater experience at BB games.

Success inevitably brings talk of expansion. What's your timetable for more teams?

AE: We haven't locked ourselves into a timetable. We've only had one season and we're still a month away from the second. We still feel there's a job to do in establishing the existing teams in their local markets.

One of our overarching objectives is to attract new audiences. We feel there is still plenty of upside in doing that with the number of teams and games we have now. I would suggest we're a little way off pushing into new markets with new teams. Down the track, once we have a solid foundation, yes we certainly have aspirations to grow the league and grow the game.

---

Watch the KFC Twenty20 Big Bash League Live and Exclusive, and in High Definition, on Fox Sports. Get Foxtel.

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Carpenter Quiney carves Test spot

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Late bloomers ... Rob Quiney (L) and Michael Hussey were both in their 30s before getting Test debuts. Source:AAP

Rob Quiney might be on target to become Australia's oldest apprentice carpenter, but compared with one of his new Australia teammates, he has scarcely served an apprenticeship at all before becoming a Test batsman.

A calf muscle injury to Shane Watson opened the door, or as Quiney prefers to think of it, a window, to the 30-year-old Victorian left-hander making his debut for Australia against South Africa at the Gabba starting on Friday.

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Seven years ago, it was another 30-year-old left-hander, Michael Hussey, given the chance to wear the baggy green cap for the first time, also in a Brisbane Test, as a result of a fractured rib suffered by Justin Langer, now Australia's batting coach.

But where Hussey had accumulated a record 15,313 runs in first-class cricket over 11 years before making his Test debut, Quiney has been at his cricketing trade for barely half that time, accumulating 3,092 first-class runs.

And yet, ironically, his Test career is beginning just as he is putting in place plans for life after cricket, as an ageing apprentice carpenter.

"The one thing that was doing my head in was what happens after cricket, so I wanted the transition to be fairly smooth," Quiney told The Australian.

"It's a four-year apprenticeship to be done over six years, so fingers crossed I can stay in cricket for a while and knock off a few more years."

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Quiney is adamant he had never given up on his dream of wearing the baggy green. Indeed, his conviction that he would one day play for Australia had grown stronger over the years, not weaker, as he developed his game, following up his impressive 2010-11 season (724 runs at 42.58) with an even more imposing 938 at 49.36 in 2011-12.

But all the while he was becoming more and more aware that he had responsibilities to others, not just himself.

"It wasn't that today (Test selection) wouldn't come but I wanted to be prepared ... now that I've got a daughter, I've got to be mindful that I have to support the family once cricket is done," he said.

Girlfriend Helen and daughter Amelia will be in the Gabba stands on Friday watching proudly as Quiney is presented with his treasured Test cap. And if Cricket Australia has any sense of occasion, they will arrange for the batsman he most admired when he was growing up to present it to him, Allan Border.

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As fate would have it, Border was captain of the last Australian side to lose a Gabba Test, against the West Indies in 1988, but that's not what Quiney remembers about him. Rather, he had Border's poster on his wall as a child because of the way he always fought so desperately, never surrendering. It's a quality Quiney has built into his own game.

"I don't think I've modelled my game on anyone because I've got a different technique to others but Allan Border was someone I loved watching as a kid, just the way he went about it," Quiney said.

Border had to contend with Malcolm Marshall, Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh in that long ago Brisbane Test but Quiney won't be doing it any easier against the Proteas pace trio of Dale Steyn, Vernon Philander and Morne Morkel.

Steyn, in particular, worked up frightening pace against Australia A in Sydney on the weekend, and even though Quiney stood tall to score 85 in the first innings, he was more than happy to allow Phil Hughes to bear the brunt of Steyn's blistering burst in the second innings.

"Everyone knows how good a bowler he is and how fast he can be, so it's good to have a bit of a taste," Quiney said.

He's certain to get another taste at the Gabba, and while his cricketing apprenticeship might fall short of Hussey-like extremes, Australia's new apprentice carpenter batsman should be able to build an innings.

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What the Cup jockeys said

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Men in the middle ... the jockeys offer their thoughts on the 2012 Melbourne Cup. Source: Jay Town / News Limited

The Melbourne Cup jockeys give their own versions of the elation and disappointment they shared after the running of the race that stops a nation.

 

1 - Green Moon

 

2 - Fiorente

 

3 - Jakkalberry

 

4 - Kelinni

 

Super TAB Dividends:

Green Moon - $22.50 win $7.40 place

Fiorente - $11.80 place

Jakkalberry - $16 place

Quinella: $506.90

Exacta: $765.30

Trifecta: $45941.60

First four: $969406.60

BRETT PREBBLE (Green Moon) 1st
"It's a lifelong dream. I was very confident at the mile, then at the 1200m I thought the only thing that could get him beaten was his stamina if he didn't stay the trip, but the feeling he was giving me at the 1200 was the sort of feeling you only get from very good horses. I've been very fortunate to ride some champions and he's up there in the top 10."

JAMES McDONALD (Fiorente) 2nd
"At the top of the straight I thought all my Christmases had come at once but it wasn't meant to be."

COLM O'DONOGHUE (Jakkalberry) 3rd
"Delighted with him. We always thought he'd put up a big performance and he showed what a good horse he is today against possibly one of the best fields of all time."

GLEN BOSS (Kelinni) 4th
"He gave me a great ride, he lacked class when Green Moon put a gap on me but he toughed it out right to the line really well."

RYAN MOORE (Mount Athos) 5th
"The pace was too slow for me."

TOMMY BERRY (Glencadam Gold) 6th
"I felt the winner at the top of the straight. I couldn't have asked for a better run. He got found out in the last 200 (metres) but you've got to remember this is his first prep in Australia so next year's his year."

HUGH BOWMAN (Mourayan) 7th
"I had a good run in the race, he raced a little bit keen throughout but no excuses really."

MICHAEL RODD (Red Cadeaux) 8th
"He ran amazing. They just went too steady but he finished it off really well, he's a gutsy horse."

BLAKE SHINN (Precedence) 9th
"It was the run of his career, he had a good run in transit and found the line really strongly."

COREY BROWN (My Quest For Peace) 10th
"Probably should've finished three or four lengths closer. The tempo just took him out of his comfort zone and when they sprinted, he was left flat-footed. He ran well."

DAMIEN OLIVER (Americain) 11th
"The slow pace was against him. They really outsprinted him with the big weight but he still ran well, I thought."

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FRANKIE DETTORI (Cavalryman) 12th
"No good."

VLAD DURIC (Voila Ici) 13th
"He had a good run but felt the ground."

CRAIG WILLIAMS (Dunaden) 14th
"I nearly fell off at the start. The slow pace, big weight, he probably needs weight-for-age and a bit shorter distance now."

DWAYNE DUNN (Niwot) 15th
"He just hasn't bounced back from Caulfield. He had a beautiful run in transit and just didn't deliver."

LUKE NOLEN (Lights Of Heaven) 16th
"Didn't stay."

JAMIE MOTT (Winchester) 17th
"He just never relaxed at all today. He was really fired up and never got into it at all."

NICHOLAS HALL (Sanagas) 18th
"It wasn't my best ride but he may not have the turn of foot required for Australian racing."

JIM CASSIDY (Maluckyday) 19th
"I was never in it, he raced well below anywhere near what he's been doing and struggled a long way from home."

PAT SMULLEN (Galileo's Choice) 20th
"We had a beautiful position, I was very happy with the first part of the race but when they quickened he didn't let down in the ground."

GLYN SCHOFIELD (Unusual Suspect) 21st
"I went back from a wide gate but the slow tempo didn't suit him."

CRAIG NEWITT (Zabeelionaire) 22nd
"Disappointing. We had a good run at the back of the field and followed Dunaden into the race but we never seemed to make any ground. It was one of those races."

OLIVIER DOLEUZE (Tac De Boistron) 23rd
"Not a lot of pace. I put him in a good spot but I was travelling a bit too easy and wish I had a bit more rain."

RHYS MCLEOD (Ethiopia) Last
"He pulled up sore behind. Once I asked for an effort he just had no drive from behind, we'll see how he pulls up but I'm tipping that they'll find something wrong."

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Santos apologises for shirt swap

Anger ... Andre Santos comes under fire for asking for Robin van Persie's shirt at half-time. Source: Andrew Yates / AFP

Andre Santos has apologised after his half-time shirt swap with former Arsenal team-mate Robin van Persie during Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Manchester United.

The left-back endured a tough Barclays Premier League afternoon at Old Trafford and his decision to swap shirts with Van Persie as the players headed towards the tunnel caused a commotion.

Arsene Wenger has criticised Santos's decision to exchange shirts at that time, but the Brazilian has explained his actions and said sorry to supporters.

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"Robin's departure to United did not turn him into an enemy for me," Santos told English newspaper The Sun.

"We remain friends and he talked about exchanging shirts, which is something players do all the time.

"Did I think it would cause such a commotion? Of course I didn't, otherwise I would have told Robin to exchange shirts away from public view. That's why I'd like to apologise to supporters who felt aggrieved by it.

"I just want people to understand he is my friend and I wouldn't treat him differently because of the move to United.

"He approached me at half-time and at the time I did not think it would create such an uproar. I would never refrain from saying 'hi' to a good friend.

"It surprised me that people latched on to a gesture that promotes friendship and fair play.

"Arsene Wenger had asked the supporters to show respect towards Robin, after all."

Read more: http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11670/8228197/Arsenal-s-Andre-Santos-sorry-for-shirt-swap-with-Man-Utd-s-Robin-van-Persie 

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'Flintoff fight is a joke'

A joke? ... Freddie Flintoff's attempt to enter professional boxing has been met with scepticism. Source: AAP

The chairman of the British Boxing board should be sacked for granting former English cricket captain Andrew Flintoff a professional licence to fight, claims a high-profile promoter.

Frank Maloney said 34-year-old Flintoff's maiden bout on November 30 is an insult to the sport.

"Giving Flintoff a professional licence with no experience of boxing is a joke. It gives our sport a bad name," Maloney told reporters.

The promoter of British heavyweight champion David Price said Flintoff's foray into the world of pro heavyweight fighting is reminiscent of countryman and Olympic rower James Cracknell who was knocked out seconds after he stepped into the ring for the first time.

"They haven't named an opponent for Flintoff yet but even if they find some guy who's lost his first four pro fights, he will still be in against someone with amateur experience," Maloney said.

"It will be a terrible shock when he gets hit on the chin by a heavyweight.

"It is a disgrace (the board) have given Flintoff a licence. I told the chairman, Charles Giles, that he should be sacked for approving this scandal."

Trained by Barry McGuigan, who became world featherweight champion in 1985, Flintoff will step into the ring at Manchester for the climax of a TV reality show, The Gloves Are Off, which has documented the former cricketer's preparations to fight.

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Do you think it's a joke letting non-boxers get in the ring professionally?

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Late mail: Melbourne Cup tips

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Glitz, glamour and a horse race too ... Mischa Barton meets Melbourne Cup winner Brew. Source:News Limited

Who will win the 2012 Melbourne Cup? Foxsports.com.au gives you the mail for the race that stops the nation.

1. Dunaden (Barrier 16) Craig Williams 59kg

2. Americain (12) D Oliver 58kg

3. Jakkalberry (19) Colm O'Donoghue 55.5kg

4. Red Cadeaux (18) M Rodd 55.5kg

5. Winchester (22) J Mott 55.5kg

6. Voila Ici (13) V Duric 55kg

7. Cavalryman (6) L Dettori 54kg

8. Mount Athos (8) Ryan Moore 54kg

9. Sanagas (4) Nicholas Hall 54kg

10. Ethiopia (14) R McLeod 53.5kg

11. Fiorente (2) J B McDonald 53.5kg

12. Galileo's Choice (11) P J Smullen 53.5kg

13. Glencadam Gold (7) Tommy Berry 53.5kg

14. Green Moon (5) B Prebble 53.5kg

15. Maluckyday (9) J A Cassidy 53.5kg

16. Mourayan (3) J Bowman 53.5kg

17. My Quest For Peace (1) C W Brown 53.5kg

18. Niwot (15) D Dunn 53.5kg

19. Tac De Boistron (21) O Dolueze 53.5kg

20. Lights Of Heaven (17) L Nolen 53kg

21. Precedence (20) B Shinn 53kg

22. Unusual Suspect (23) G Schofield 53kg

23. Zabeelionaire (24) C Newitt 52kg

24. Kelinni (10) G Boss 51kg

Trent Hile, Martin Gibbes and Scott Heinrich have burned the midnight oil to pore through the form guide, bringing you their analysis to hopefully steer you into a winner.

Each punter has been in good form this Spring Carnival and we hope their luck can extend just one more meet.

We will bring you all the Melbourne Cup Day news and information from Flemington, as it happens, in Melbourne Cup Live. The blog that stops the nation, featuring the Fox Sports Fiver and all your interactive comments, gets under way at 9.30am (EDT) on Tuesday, November 1.

---

Trent Hile
It might be one of the most open Cup fields we've seen in years, but one thing is for sure: it'll be dominated by the European horses.

While no horse has ever saluted in the Cup when starting from dreaded barrier 18, I'm backing last year's runner-up Red Cadeaux to defy history.

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He was only beaten by a pimple by Dunaden last year and meets him 2.5 kilos better at the weights (which equates to a couple of lengths), while jockey Michael Rodd believes the horse is fitter and more powerful this time around. Red Cadeaux has only started six times since his nose defeat at Flemington and hasn't finished further back than third. At $9 with the TAB, he's the best each-way bet in the race.

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I've got plenty of time for 2010 winner of the race, Americain, especially with Damien Oliver getting the ride ahead of Gerald Mosse. He finished a gallant fourth in last year's race despite sitting three-wide the trip, then his run in this year's Caulfield Cup suggested he's crying out for the 3200m distance.

Mount Athos is yet to be sighted on Australian soil, but has really impressed since switching to the Luca Cumani stable, carrying big weights to win his past three races by sizeable margins. He gets in lightly at the weights (54kg) and should be prominent at the finish.

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There's no doubting Caufield Cup winner Dunaden is the horse to beat. He won the race last year, is yet to taste defeat on Australian soil and has arguably Australia's best jockey in Craig Williams in the saddle. But he'll have to lump 59kg, meaning he'll need to be roughly four-lengths better than last year. Still, you'd be brave to completely rule him out.

Tips
1 Red Cadeaux
2 Americain
3 Mount Athos
4 Dunaden

Suggested $20 bet: $10 each-way on Red Cadeaux

Best roughie: Mourayan. He's been the forgotten horse of the spring. Was one of the top contenders for last year's race before being scratched on Cup morning. He's down in the weights, lightly raced, should run the trip and is a handy each-way chance at around the $25 mark.

---

Martin Gibbes
I'm not one to join a bandwagon but it's virtually impossible to tip past the likelihood of an overseas win of some kind at around 3.04pm on Tuesday afternoon.

It's easily the best-credentialed field I've seen and it took some sorting through it to come up with a top tip.

It shouldn't be to anyone's surprise that I've opted for Dunaden. Despite the heavy impost, he looks to have class on this field - and that's saying something, considering the talent on display. His win in the Caulfield Cup was exceptional considering his seemingly hopeless position on the turn, and he looks a better horse, if that's possible, than last year.

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My quinella runner is European as well, just not one of the more favoured ones.

If you are looking for Caulfield Cup run for the future then this five-year-old fills the bill perfectly. My Quest For Peace is an on-pace runner who won't leave the rails from barrier one. As long as he gets a shot at them in the straight, he will be hard to beat.

With all the talk on the European invasion, it's been easy to overlook the chances of local hopes like Ethiopia.

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I've had a soft spot for the Pat Carey-trained gelding ever since his AJC Derby (2400m) win in the autumn and it was hard not to miss the merit of his run in the Cox Plate (2040m). It may only be early in his career but the four-year-old clearly has great potential and the distance doesn't loom as a particular concern.

It's been a disappointing carnival thus far for Gai Waterhouse, but I think she'll earn some minor prizemoney with Fiorente.

Reputedly likes a wet track, which is what is set to confront him on Tuesday, Fiorente has drawn to get a great run and brings to Australia some impressive form in GII company in England and France.

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Tips:
1 Dunaden
2 My Quest For Peace
3 Ethiopia
4 Fiorente

Suggested $20 bet: $10 to win on Dunaden and $10 quinella on Dunaden and My Quest For Peace

Best roughie: Gallieo's Choice looks an underrated overseas contender, especially as he is only carrying 53.5kg. Of the local hopes, Kelinni was very impressive over the weekend.

---

Scott Heinrich

If Luca Cumani doesn't know by now the type of horse required to win a Melbourne Cup, he never will.

The UK-based Italian trainer has become a regular at Flemington on the first Tuesday in November, running close seconds with Purple Moon in 2007 and Bauer the year after.

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His two entrants this year - Mount Athos and My Quest For Peace - tick the right boxes: unexposed and hence lightly weighted, are in form, well drawn and the anticipated dead ground, by Australian standards, will pose no problems.

My Quest For Peace's effort to run fifth in the Caulfield Cup was excellent considering he settled close to a hot pace and still battled on.

I like him to beat Mount Athos, while last year's runner-up Red Cadeaux has an undeniable chance at the weights. Americain and Dunaden are worthy benchmarks, but weight can stop a train and they are both short enough in the betting.

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Tips:
1. My Quest For Peace
2. Mount Athos
3. Red Cadeaux
4. Americain

Suggested $20 bet: $3.50 each-way on both My Quest For Peace and Mount Athos plus $6 quinella on the Cumani pair.

Best roughie: Green Moon was fancied in the Cox Plate but raced like he wanted more ground at Moonee Valley and should be forgiven that failure. It is not unheard of for horses to flop in that race - Juene and Efficient are recent examples - only to win the Melbourne Cup. The question with Green Moon is will he run two miles?

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Victory finally turn on style

Strike force ... Marco Rojas (2nd R) is congratulated on his second goal. Source: George Salpigtidis / News Limited

Marco Rojas celebrated his 21st birthday with two gift goals against his former A-League club as Melbourne Victory climbed into the top six with a 3-2 win over Wellington at Etihad Stadium on Monday night.

Marcos Flores scored Melbourne's other, before two late long-range goals from Wellington's Jeremy Brockie gave the home side a scare.

The Victory displaced Sydney FC from sixth spot on goal difference, after the Sky Blues' horror 7-2 loss to Central Coast on Saturday, with Melbourne to meet Sydney on Saturday night.

		P	W	D	L	GD	Pts
1	Adelaide	5	4	0	1	5	12
2	Central Coast	5	3	1	1	6	10
3	Perth	5	3	0	2	2	9
4	Newcastle	5	3	0	2	0	9
5	Western Sydney	5	2	1	2	0	7
6	Victory	5	2	0	3	-5	6
7	Sydney	5	2	0	3	-6	6
8	Wellington	5	1	2	2	-1	5
9	Brisbane	5	1	1	3	2	4
10	Heart	5	1	1	3	-3	4

In front of a 20,683-strong crowd, Melbourne dominated most of the match, continually finding holes in Wellington's defence before breaking through in the 23rd minute with a beautifully-constructed opener.

The architect was Brazilian midfielder Gui Finkler, back from injury and producing form not seen in his previous three A-League matches.

Finkler sent a perfectly-weighted ball from midfield into the path of Thompson on the right, freeing the Socceroos striker to run to the edge of the box, draw Mark Paston, then pass to Rojas for the simplest of finishes.

That was topped in the 38th minute, when Argentine Flores worked his way into the box, exchanged a deft series of passes with Finkler then swerved a shot inside the left post with the outside of his right boot.

The win looked assured three minutes into the second half when Mark Milligan sent Thompson clear in attack and Thompson set up Rojas for another easy goal.

Wellington coach Ricki Herbert tried to spark his team with a double substitution soon after, pulling attacking pair Paul Ifill and Stein Huysegems.

The visitors pressed hard late and were rewarded with a ripping 81st-minute goal from Brockie, whose long-range left-footer struck the underside of the crossbar on the way in.

Brockie scored again two minutes into stoppage time, with a free kick which keeper Nathan Coe knocked back only after it crossed the goal line, forcing Melbourne to face a nervous remaining two minutes.

Melbourne Victory coach Ange Postecoglou said the disappointing finish left a bad taste in his mouth despite dominating for so long.

"The last half-hour was unacceptable, we've got to be better than that,'' he said.

"We're working really hard on a style of play and being disciplined about it and we veered away from it.

"The result was the last thing on my mind. I'm just really disappointed that we chose to veer away from what we've been doing.''

Phoenix coach Ricki Herbert said the score flattered his side.

"We weren't good enough tonight. Let's pay credit to Melbourne - I thought they were very good and we were very disappointing,'' Herbert said.

---

Relive the game with all the vital stats and key highlights in our A-League Match Centre.

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Parko, Slater battle for crown

Joel Parkinson ... will battle Kelly Slater for the 2012 ASP world title in Hawaii. Source: AFP

Australia's Joel Parkinson and Kelly Slater are set to duel for this year's ASP world surfing title after two contenders stumbled in the penultimate event in California.

Hawaiian John John Florence's hopes were extinguished when he was upset by NSW surfer Matt Wilkinson in the second round of the O'Neill Coldwater Classic at Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz.

And Mick Fanning's chances of claiming a third world title are hanging by a thread after Brazilian Jadson Andre pipped the Australian, also in round two.

Standings leader Parkinson and 11-time world champion Slater are safely through but no matter who banks the most points in California, the season-ending Billabong Pipe Masters in Oahu, Hawaii in December will decide the title.

Slater survived a hard-fought battle with Dusty Payne in the third round to eliminate the chance of Parkinson sewing up the world crown.

"I just can't seem to figure this wave out, Slater said.

"So I better figure something out quick."

Parkinson was far too good for American Nat Young as the 31-year-old Coolangatta natural footer chases his maiden world title after finishing runner-up in 2002, 2004 and 2009.

"I need a win here," Parkinson said.

"It's what I'm striving for and I can't really control what everyone else does, so I'm just worrying about myself."

Fanning's shock 0.06-point defeat by Andre means he'll be relying on Slater and Parkinson no to make the final and will then need to win the Pipe Masters.

Andre was later beaten by 34-year-old Australian veteran Taj Burrow.

---

Watch all the action from the O'Neill Coldwater Classic at Steamer Lane LIVE on FUEL.

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'The best we've seen Victory'

Goal of the season? ... Marcos Flores finishes off a sublime Victory goal. Source: George Salpigtidis / News Limited

Fox Sports football experts Mark Bosnich and Robbie Slater are joined by Central Coast Mariners defender Patrick Zwaanswijk to review the weekend's A-League action, with Bozza praising Western Sydney Wanderers for getting it right so quickly.

Melbourne Victory 3 defeated Wellington Phoenix 2 at Etihad Stadium

Slater says: That first half was scintillating - the best we've seen the Victory all season. The combination of Guilherme Finkler-Marcos Flores sets up one of the goals of the season. They went in 2-0 and they totally dominated the Wellington Phoenix. It didn't look like the Phoenix were going to be in the game at all in the second half, and it started off that way. They had a bit more possession but in one counter-attack they just never got to grips with the penetration from Archie Thompson and Marco Rojas. Happy 21st birthday for Rojas as Archie's given him two big presents. The travel is a killer for Wellington; I think that may be a factor. They looked very lethargic in the first half. But Jeremy Brockie, wow. That's one of the goal of the season contenders that first one.

---

Adelaide United 1 defeated Brisbane Roar 0 at Suncorp Stadium

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Bozza says: It was a very good free kick from Vidosic that separated the two sides, although it was a bit fortunate to take a deflection. I was a little bit startled that Rado Vidosic said at the end of the game that Adelaide's early goal 'pretty much killed us'. In past seasons, that for me would have inspired them. A few problems up there for Vidosic. The Roar aren't playing at the same tempo and the same pace for the whole game, especially in that last third. It's very, very important, especially when you play the ball around like the Roar, that when you're up in that last third you increase the tempo because there's some very good defences in the A-League and they'll be comfortable if the Roar don't play with more pace. The tackle on Berisha wasn't a penalty.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: Brisbane had plenty of chances. They created a lot but they didn't have that many shots on goal. The Roar copped an early goal and then Adelaide dropped behind the ball and defended in numbers and the Roar need to be prepared for that because that's what sides will try to do once they get a lead.

---

Perth Glory 3 defeated Newcastle Jets 2 at NiB Stadium

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Bozza says: Fantastic game. I think it was the game of the round. I think Van Egmond would be disappointed the Jets didn't at least pick up a point out of it. I thought they deserved a point. Both sides really had a go at each other. The Jets had enough chances not only to get a point, but probably to win the game and they came away with nothing. It was another really exciting game. Perth came back really well from last week's disappointment against Sydney. You can understand exactly where Van Egmond was coming from, saying he was pleased with the performance, but I think he wouls have had a quiet word to his players to say he was disappointed they didn't at least get a draw.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: Perth always give 100 per cent and are a very good team. If you can go with them and match them physically you can pick up the three points but the Glory always give it all in that respect.

---

Western Sydney Wanderers 2 defeated Melbourne Heart 1 at Parramatta Stadium

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Bozza says: The Wanderers are going really well and it was great to see them get their first win in front of their home fans. There's a bit of talk about their attack not being good enough but I don't see any need for them to change the way they play. Why fix something that's not broken? They didn't win for their first three games but they only really needed to give it a slight tweak, which they did. Poppa's made it very clear he's going to build his side from the back. And his triumvirate of the goalkeeper and two central defenders have been outstanding. They're starting to really come in to their own. If they could add perhaps a little bit more quality up front - maybe a striker or a wide man - just to help their squad depth, they're going to be a real threat. I believe that. Joey Gibbs has been excellent since he's come in. He can hold the ball up, he's mobile and he adds another dimension to their play.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: We don't have to keep talking about the Wanderers as a young side because there's a salary cap and there's only a few clubs with a bit of extra money that go outside that. They've got Aaron Mooy and Shinji Ono, who control the team well, they're defensively hard to break down, they've got experienced players at the back and experienced players at the front. So, yeah, they're a young team but the players within the team have got experience.

---

Central Coast Mariners 7 defeated Sydney FC 2 at Bluetongue Stadium

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Bozza says: Ian Crook said last night that his players didn't lack heart, well I'm not sure based on that game that he should have said that. It's not good enough. Sydney's one of the truly big clubs in this country, and I mean that judging by support and success, and they can not continue to serve that up to supporters and expect them to keep coming back watching and paying their hard earned money. They've got a massive job this week to show they can come back from this.

Watch the A-League, Live and Exclusive, and in stunning High Definition, on Fox Sports!

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Sizzling Poulter snatches WGC win

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Pumped up Poulter ... the Englishman heads Down Under on top form. Source: Mark Ralston / AFP

Englishman Ian Poulter will arrive for his Australian Masters defence in the form of his life after snatching victory in the WGC-HSBC Champions event.

The Ryder Cup hero started the last round four off the pace at China's Mission Hills, but crafted eight birdies against a lone bogey - on the penultimate hole.

He sealed a nerve-jangling, two-shot win with a steely par putt on the last hole.

Poulter fired rounds of 69, 68, 65 and 65 for a total score of 21-under-par 267, with Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els, Jason Dufner and Scott Piercy sharing second place on a congested leaderboard.

Australian Adam Scott hit a final-round 67 to finish four shots off the pace in a tie for eighth with defending champion Matin Kaymer, one shot behind overnight leaders Louis Oosthuizen and Lee Westwood - who both faltered with last round 72s on the Olazabal Course.

Poulter claimed the $US1.2 million ($A1.16 million) winner's cheque with his first individual win of the season, and the 15th of his career - just a month after playing a key role in Europe's come-from-behind Ryder Cup triumph at Medinah.

His next assignment will be the Australian Masters at Kingston Heath from November 15-18 where he is the reigning champion.

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'If it ain't broke, why fix it?'

Pandemonium ... Wanderers supporters were delighted with their side's first home win. Source: Gregg Porteous / News Limited

Fox Sports football expert Mark Bosnich is joined by Central Coast Mariners defender Patrick Zwaanswijk to review the weekend's A-League action, with Bozza praising Western Sydney Wanderers for getting it right so quickly.

Adelaide United 1 defeated Brisbane Roar 0 at Suncorp Stadium

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Bozza says: It was a very good free kick from Vidosic that separated the two sides, although it was a bit fortunate to take a deflection. I was a little bit startled that Rado Vidosic said at the end of the game that Adelaide's early goal 'pretty much killed us'. In past seasons, that for me would have inspired them. A few problems up there for Vidosic. The Roar aren't playing at the same tempo and the same pace for the whole game, especially in that last third. It's very, very important, especially when you play the ball around like the Roar, that when you're up in that last third you increase the tempo because there's some very good defences in the A-League and they'll be comfortable if the Roar don't play with more pace. The tackle on Berisha wasn't a penalty.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: Brisbane had plenty of chances. They created a lot but they didn't have that many shots on goal. The Roar copped an early goal and then Adelaide dropped behind the ball and defended in numbers and the Roar need to be prepared for that because that's what sides will try to do once they get a lead.

---

Perth Glory 3 defeated Newcastle Jets 2 at NiB Stadium

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Bozza says: Fantastic game. I think it was the game of the round. I think Van Egmond would be disappointed the Jets didn't at least pick up a point out of it. I thought they deserved a point. Both sides really had a go at each other. The Jets had enough chances not only to get a point, but probably to win the game and they came away with nothing. It was another really exciting game. Perth came back really well from last week's disappointment against Sydney. You can understand exactly where Van Egmond was coming from, saying he was pleased with the performance, but I think he wouls have had a quiet word to his players to say he was disappointed they didn't at least get a draw.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: Perth always give 100 per cent and are a very good team. If you can go with them and match them physically you can pick up the three points but the Glory always give it all in that respect.

---

Western Sydney Wanderers 2 defeated Melbourne Heart 1 at Parramatta Stadium

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Bozza says: The Wanderers are going really well and it was great to see them get their first win in front of their home fans. There's a bit of talk about their attack not being good enough but I don't see any need for them to change the way they play. Why fix something that's not broken? They didn't win for their first three games but they only really needed to give it a slight tweak, which they did. Poppa's made it very clear he's going to build his side from the back. And his triumvirate of the goalkeeper and two central defenders have been outstanding. They're starting to really come in to their own. If they could add perhaps a little bit more quality up front - maybe a striker or a wide man - just to help their squad depth, they're going to be a real threat. I believe that. Joey Gibbs has been excellent since he's come in. He can hold the ball up, he's mobile and he adds another dimension to their play.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: We don't have to keep talking about the Wanderers as a young side because there's a salary cap and there's only a few clubs with a bit of extra money that go outside that. They've got Aaron Mooy and Shinji Ono, who control the team well, they're defensively hard to break down, they've got experienced players at the back and experienced players at the front. So, yeah, they're a young team but the players within the team have got experience.

---

Central Coast Mariners 7 defeated Sydney FC 2 at Bluetongue Stadium

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Bozza says: Ian Crook said last night that his players didn't lack heart, well I'm not sure based on that game that he should have said that. It's not good enough. Sydney's one of the truly big clubs in this country, and I mean that judging by support and success, and they can not continue to serve that up to supporters and expect them to keep coming back watching and paying their hard earned money. They've got a massive job this week to show they can come back from this.

Watch the A-League, Live and Exclusive, and in stunning High Definition, on Fox Sports!

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