Jolt for Cats as Lions fall short

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TIME will tell whether this was the right finals preparation for Geelong.

It wasn't ideal and it certainly wasn't pretty, but what a wake-up call for the second-placed Cats.

5.5 (35)	Q1	3.3 (21)
7.11 (53)	Q2	9.5 (59)
12.20 (92)	Q3	11.6 (72)
15.22 (112)	Q4	17.9 (111)

Josh Caddy 2	Ashley McGrath 6
Paul Chapman 2	Jordan Lisle 3
Travis Varcoe 2	Joshua Green 2
Jimmy Bartel 1	Ryan Lester 2
Allen Christensen 1	Dayne Zorko 2
Mitchell Duncan 1	Rohan Bewick 1
Tom Hawkins 1	Mitchell Golby 1
Steve Johnson 1
James Kelly 1
James Podsiadly 1
Joel Selwood 1
Harry Taylor 1

A brave and committed Brisbane made Geelong fight to the very last second to preserve that guarded home winning record.

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This could so easily have been another Lions steal like at the Gabba earlier in the season when Ryan Lester's hurried kick from 20m just couldn't clear hands and was bundled over the goalline.

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From the kickout, the siren sound was also the collective sign of 27,467 Cats fans who witnessed this shock challenge at Simonds Stadium.

Maybe, it's just what these Cats need to realise that nothing is a given in football, even at their seemingly invincible fortress.

For Geelong players to fight and scrap for every kick for most of the contest was a better preparation for even tougher tests ahead than the expected stroll in the sunshine.

But there are immediate worries. Ruckman Mark Blicavs was helped off by three trainers after crashing heavily in a marking contest late in the frantic final quarter.

And big forward Tom Hawkins struggled again, this time scrounging just seven possessions and one goal against attentive Lion Matt Maguire.

Geelong discovered the required desperation and ramped up the pressure on the contest and the ball-carrier after half-time.

The Cats threw Harry Taylor forward for the second time and even Jimmy Bartel was among the action inside the forward 50.

Momentum had swung the home team's way and Joel Corey was subbed into the contest midway through the third quarter in a bid to maintain the edge.

Steven Motlop was tossed the red vest - after just four possessions and a failed mark-of-the-year attempt in the first quarter.

While a revived Geelong dominated the third quarter, the Lions didn't succumb as the dangerous Ash McGrath regained the lead with his fifth goal.

The Cats continued to butcher the ball, as indicated by the 5.9 for that quarter of almost complete control. But red time goals from Travis Varcoe, Allen Christensen and Mitch Duncan pushed them out to a 20 points lead at the last change.

Varcoe's amazing snapshot from deep in the forward pocket rewarded him as Geelong's first multiple goalkicker 24 minutes into the third quarter.

From the start, you sensed Brisbane players didn't fear the hostile environment. Their attack on the ball hammered out a message we're here to play.

The opening goal reflected the first half - McGrath with a quick kick from close range after Bartel butchered a chipped pass that allowed Stokes to be spoiled in dangerous territory.

Geelong's first use of the crosswind favouring the Barwon River end was wasteful and the quarter-time lead of 14 points proved that inability to capitalise on scoring opportunities.

The fired up Lions had 16 more possessions in the first term and, clearly, were not daunted by the enormity of their task or the reputations of the opposition.

When Kelly goaled in the opening minute of the second quarter, the Cats had stretched the lead to 21 points and still seemed in comfortable if not dominant control.

But Brisbane's run and dare to take on Geelong down the centre corridor started to pay handsomely.

Lester goaled from a Kelly turnover and then he broke a Johnson tackle to add another one as the murmurs ripped through the home fans.

Geelong even threw Taylor forward for a short time in a bid to provide a viable target. He did grab a contested mark, but was offline as the wind slewed the shot wide.

The increasingly confident Lions booted five straight goals in the second term to grab the lead before a rare Hawkins mark in the goalsquare halted the visitors' march.

The stats sheet at half-time told a sorry tale for several of Geelong's prime playmakers - Motlop with just three touches, Varcoe with five, Enright with six, Christensen with eight and even skipper Joel Selwood's 10 had little impact in the strange and damning first half for a premiership contender.

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T-Rex flicks the switch into form

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BIG, bad Tony Williams found the switch for his 118kg frame in the countdown to half time on Saturday night, in the process producing the turning point that has ended Penrith's season.

6 Tries 2
James Graham 4'	Isaac John 8'
Tim Lafai 40'	Josh Mansour 12'
Tim Lafai 51'
Mitch Brown 57'
Krisnan Inu 71'
Trent Hodkinson 78'
5 Conversions 2
Trent Hodkinson 5'	Luke Walsh 9'
Trent Hodkinson 40'	Luke Walsh 14'
Trent Hodkinson 52'
Trent Hodkinson 73'
Trent Hodkinson 79'
0 Penalties 1
	Luke Walsh 31'

With the Panthers leading 14-6 and threatening an upset, T-Rex took hold of the ball near halfway and sent the opposition skittling like nine pins at a bowling alley.

By the time Canterbury-Bankstown's highest-profile star recruit was finished, he had bumped, fended and brushed aside five Panthers on a bulldozing run to set up one of the tries of the season.

After inflicting the trail of destruction, Williams popped an overhead pass to send Mitch Brown into space before the Bulldogs left winger put a kick ahead for centre Tim Lafai to swoop and score, finishing a 50m movement.

It was the turning point of the game and the type of play Canterbury-Bankstown's legion of supporters have been craving from Williams all season.

"It's been a long time coming. I guess I wasn't involved much before that so I had to do something," Williams said.

"I was lucky to get through there and throw that pass.

"It's been a bit of a roller coaster but as a team we're finally starting to find our straps leading into the finals which I guess is a good confidence boost."

With big Sam Kasiano possibly fit for Thursday night's final game of the regular season against Brisbane and the suspended Frank Pritchard due back for the first week of the finals, Williams reasoned the Bulldogs can still make some noise in September.

The other x-factor is the possible return of Dally M Medallist Ben Barba, who coach Des Hasler said would have a fitness test this week.

"Without a doubt, with the forward pack we've got, I personally reckon it's the best in the comp," Williams said.

"But it's just a matter of getting everyone back fit ready to go I guess. I've got confidence in the ability we've got, it's just a matter of getting together I guess."

Without taking anything away from Penrith, the Bulldogs looked awfully out of sorts in the opening 40 minutes, with coach Des Hasler highlighting how they completed only 10 of 17 sets.

Second half, different story. The zip was back, the passes were sticking and the result was tries to centre Lafai, winger Brown, centre Krisnan Inu and halfback Hodkinson.

In total, it finished six tries to two.

"A bit ugly, wasn't it. Particularly the first half. Probably both sides were sub-standard with the completion rate," Hasler said.

"For us it's always a danger coming off such a big effort in a match last week. They're a good side Penrith but we contributed to our own down fall. We completed 10 from 17 in the first half and it's just not enough.

"In the second half we got back into a bit of momentum, completed a bit and got back into a bit of continuity with the ball.

"And we put on four tries. To hold that side to two tries for the game, they've been pretty good over the last month."

The only concern for coach Hasler was backrower Josh Jackson being placed on report for a swinging forearm which left Panther Clint Newton concussed in the opening half.

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Victorious Blues lock in finals spot

Carlton forward Jarrad Waite celebrates a late goal in the last quarter. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: Sarah Reed / The Advertiser

CARLTON secured the last AFL finals spot with a dramatic comeback one-point win against Port Adelaide on Saturday.

The Blues came from 39 points down in the third term to win  15.14 (104) to 15.13 (103) in a thrilling farewell to AAMI Stadium.

4.3 (27)	Q1	1.5 (11)
8.9 (57)	Q2	3.7 (25)
12.11 (83)	Q3	7.12 (54)
15.13 (103)	Q4	15.14 (104)

Brad Ebert 4	Marc Murphy 3
Jay Schulz 4	Eddie Betts 2
Justin Westhoff 2	Jefferey Garlett 2
Travis Boak 1	Chris Yarran 2
Tom Logan 1	Tom Bell 1
Angus Monfries 1	Edward Curnow 1
Chad Wingard 1	Bryce Gibbs 1
Aaron Young 1	Matthew Kreuzer 1
	Kade Simpson 1
	Jarrad Waite 1

Carlton booted eight goals to three in the the final term to stun Port, though the Power will also play finals next week.

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Both clubs will feature in elimination against finals - against Richmond or Collingwood respectively, depending on other weekend results.

A Carlton win was a long shot when Port's Brad Ebert booted his fourth goal early in the third quarter, giving his side a 39-point lead.

Some 15 minutes later, the Blues still trailed by that margin and appeared doomed when 29 points behind at three-quarter time.

But they turned the tide against Port by booting four goals in eight minutes of the last quarter to revive their season.

And the visitors took the lead for the first time in the game when unheralded 14-gamer Tom Bell slotted a 45-metre shot on the run with five minutes remaining.

In a pulsating finale before 45,127 fans in the final game at AAMI Stadium, Port's Matthew Broadbent had the chance to deliver his side a win with a 50m attempt with just 27 seconds to go.

But his shot hit the post, leaving Port one point adrift.

Blues captain Marc Murphy kicked three goals and, along with the likes of Bryce Gibbs (26 touches) and Andrew Walker (25 possessions) triggered the finals-saving fightback.

Carlton's mosquito fleet - Eddie Betts, Chris Yarren and Jeff Gartlett - all kicked two goals.

Carlton utility Bryce Gibbs kicked the sealer for the Blues. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

Port's Ebert was a standout but faded late while his teammates Jay Schulz (three goals) and Kane Cornes (34 disposals) were prominent.

Former Power captain Dom Cassisi faces an anxious wait, with his second-term sling tackle on Murphy certain to attract match review panel attention.

Cassisi, holding both hands of the Blues captain, threw Murphy to the ground in a late tackle penalised by an umpire.

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Manly give Storm reality check

Manly's David Williams celebrates a try. Source: Philip Hillyard / News Limited

WHAT is it about the Manly Sea Eagles and September?

6 Tries 2
David Williams 2'	Sisa Waqa 39'
Brett Stewart 9'	Justin O'Neill 67'
David Williams 25'
David Williams 28'
Brett Stewart 64'
Daly Cherry-Evans 74'
1 Conversions 0
Jamie Lyon 10'
1 Penalties 0
Jamie Lyon 13'

Up until Saturday night, the Northern Beaches outfit had failed to claim a top four scalp this year. The Sydney Roosters, South Sydney and even Melbourne had managed to hold their nerve this season against the Sea Eagles. 

It led to some critics questioning this mighty club's capabilities and just what impact, if any, they would have on this year's finals series. 

Not anymore. 

In scenes reminiscent of their 40-0 nil 2008 grand final win over arch-rivals Melbourne, the Sea Eagles produced their greatest first half performance this season to blow the Storm off the park and shatter Craig Bellamy's side's belief in their own title hopes.

On a night to remember in front of 17,179 fans at fortress Brookvale Oval, Manly winger David Williams bagged a hat-trick of tries while fullback Brett Stewart notched up a double.

With Craig Bellamy questioning his player's resolve at halftme, Melbourne showed some early intentions to stop the bleeding just after the break.  

But it didn't last long as Manly maintained their domination, which was even more prevalent in their defence, with some ferocious hits bustling Melbourne into error.

Try as they may, Melbourne simply didn't have the answers.

The Sea Eagles began the match without their inspirational forward Anthony Watmough, who was left on the sideline with a knee injury.  

And just two minutes into the battle, Manly suffered a further and potentially huge blow when former NSW Origin back rower Jamie Buhrer left the field, with a suspected rib injury, following an innocuous tackle. With Buhrer sent to hospital for scans, Manly were left to play out almost the entire match with 16 players.

The injury setback, however, did little to subdue the home side who just two tackles later opened the scoring through winger David Williams. 

Enjoying a glut of early possession and field position, the Sea Eagles extended their lead to 10-0 nil after nine minutes when Bret Stewart crossed for his seventh try of the year. 

Stewart benefited from a lovely interchange of passing with brother Glenn Stewart providing the final ball for the Sea Eagles fullback to dive over close to the posts.

Melbourne were shellshocked. 

Unable to sustain the maroon and white onslaught, frustration led to ill-discipline by the Storm and a penalty conversion from Jamie Lyon extended his side's advantage to 12-0 nil.

It wasn't only in attack that Manly dominated their rivals, but also in defence. 

They held their line in-tact inside the opening 20 minutes, tackling in threes and fours while their desperation was never more evident when Brett Stewart produced a classic try-saving tackle on winger Justin O'Neill, who looked certain to score. 

Sensing Melbourne's poor discipline could boil over during the first half, referee Jared Maxwell warned veteran Storm five-eighth Brett Finch to cease his constant badgering of the officials.

Manly weren't bothered by ref's calls, they were too busy entertaining. 

Williams' second try was better than his first as he displayed phenomenal skill from an attacking kick to catch the football and in one motion he contorted his body, while keeping his feet inside the touchline to score.

At 16-0 nil, Manly were carving Melbourne's left side defence to pieces and by the 28th minute, Williams had bagged a hat-trick. 

Scoring his third try off an almost identical cross-field kick play as his previous try, Williams sent a packed Brookvale Oval wild when his 17th try of the season pushed the Sea Eagles lead out to a remarkable 20-0 nil lead.

The visitors required some magic and typically it was the big three of Smith, Cronk and Slater that inspired the only Storm try of the first half. Classic interplay from Smith and Cronk allowed Slater enough space to produce a brilliant left foot kick for his winger Sisa Waqa,, who also showed some class to scoop the football up and score in one motion.

But the standing ovation from the home fans at halftime told the story with Manly leading 20-4.

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Roos 50-50 on Dees

Paul Roos has flagged interest in Melbourne's coaching job. Source: News Limited

PAUL Roos has sensationally roared into favouritism for Melbourne's vacant coaching position after declaring he was ''50-50'' to coach the Demons.

The Sydney premiership coach said over the past 12 weeks he had started to consider Melbourne as an option, and was now in dialogue with Demons chief executive Peter Jackson.

He said that while he could not relocate his family to Brisbane to replace Michael Voss, his family would be happy to move to Melbourne.

The Demons are again going through a horrific on-field season and yesterday were delivered another blow when Rodney Eade withdrew from their race to stay at the Pies.

The Herald Sun reported this week the Demons hadn't ruled out luring Roos, and on Fox Footy he made it clear why.

''In terms of the Melbourne job there is some more interest there than there was 12 weeks ago. I have had some discussion with Peter and said you have got to work to your timeline, not mine. (But) if he calls me, I am happy to take his call,'' he said.

''He has continued to talk to me. When I started the process 12 weeks ago you go from zero per cent interest in coaching to 100 per cent, you can't do it in such a short space of time. There is more interest now. I am certainly not at the point where I can say, ''Yes I will do it', but you start thinking about it, you start picturing yourself doing it, what does it look like, and all those things. Where am I at? Is it 50-50 I have moved from zero to around that 50-50 mark, but at some point you have to say are you going to dip your toe in the water. You have got to be fair dinkum about it.''

Roos had previously said he was not afraid of the huge challenge of coaching Melbourne, but could not see him coaching again.

But his decision to effectively declare himself in the race is a massive fillip for a Melbourne side that could still win the wooden spoon this weekend.

It would also have massive sponsorship and membership benefits.

And while the AFL will not fund a salary that would be well in excess of $1 million a season, the Demons would be a significantly higher chance to receive a priority pick with a proven name like Roos as coach.

Roos had told Brisbane chairman Angus Johnson last week he would not relocate, but said last night he was open to moving his family to Melbourne.

'To clarify we discussed the move to Brisbane and it wasn't going to work from a family point of view. Melbourne, the state, is an option.

''Does it mean I am going to coach Melbourne? No, but going through the process you work out what is achievable. My family is the most important thing for me . So absolutely, is Melbourne more of an option? Brisbane is not an option from a family point of view.''

The Demons coaching selection committee is believed to have had several interviews with candidates including Eade and premiership coach Mark Williams.

But he could claim the Melbourne job with one phone call to Peter Jackson.

Melbourne would not comment last night, but it is known they will continue their coaching selection process in case Roos pulls out.

Neil Craig is yet to officially commit to throwing his hat in the ring at Melbourne, but it is known he would be an extremely strong chance to coach on if Roos did not coach them.

It would see a huge shakeup of the Demons under the AFL's stewardship almost complete, with a new president in Glenn Bartlett, a new chief executive in Glen Bartlett and the dream coach in Roos.

Former Fitzroy and Sydney defender Roos, 50, coached 202 games at the Swans for a 115-84 win-loss record with two draws, and is considered the perfect option for Melbourne.

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Potgieter the beast Tahs looking for

Potgieter is renowned for his fearless approach to the game. Source: AP

DOWN the years, many people have held fears for Jacques Potgieter as he ran onto a football field. Someone had to.

"If you are going to get scared on the rugby field, play another sport," Potgieter says of fear.

"I grew up with the philosophy rugby is a tough sport. It's a contact sport. You have to be tough and if you don't like the physical stuff, you can play tennis."

Introducing Ulrich Jacques Potgieter, the Waratahs' new marquee import.

The former Bulls and Springboks loose forward will pull on a different sky blue jersey in 2014 after recently signing a two-year deal to play in Sydney, and there's little confusion about what his role will be.

Enter the hardman.

"I like to throw my body around," Potgieter told the Daily Telegraph this week from Japan, where he is playing over summer.

"When I was younger a lot of people would say: "you are going to die on the rugby field Jacques, you're just crazy".

"Players like that because if you see a guy like that on the field, you get energy from that. I like to create that by leading from the front. I see that as a strength of my game. Hopefully I can bring that to Sydney."

Talk with Potgieter for a few minutes and it becomes obvious why Cheika jumped at a gift-wrapped opportunity to sign the abrasive three-Test Springbok forward.

While he'd always been an admirer of Jacques Potgieter - wondering if he was Dewald Potgieter's brother (they're not related) – Cheika hadn't contemplated signing him until the rugby grapevine delivered the 115kg forward to his door.

Hearing word the Waratahs were hunting an abrasive forward, and impressed with their 2013 season, Potgieter told his agent to ring Cheika.

"I had an offer from Saracens, but I really like the style of rugby the Waratahs brought in, the new attacking style they're playing especially from last year, with Michael Cheika there," Potgieter explained.

"I knew they'd had Sarel Pretorius there before, so maybe they'd be keen on another foreigner. I told my agent to talk to Michael and see if he was interested, and Michael was interested."

Though a backrower by trade, Cheika says 194cm Potgieter will fill the role of lock for NSW, and hopefully set a physical example to his teammates as well.

"It would have been good to have options here but I think we need to breed a bit more of that type of player," Cheika said.

"Maybe we can use him to not only just to help us win games but to show a bit of that to someone who might want to adopt that profile, because that's where is opportunity."

Potgieter will be the third South African recruited by the Waratahs since 2010, but would be the first success.

Hendrik Roodt was badly out of his depth, and Pretorius's contract ended prematurely and on a sour note after the electric halfback was barely used by Michael Foley.

Amazingly, however, Pretorius told Potgieter he should jump at the chance to follow in his footsteps.

"I phoned Sarel and asked him about the Waratahs, to do my check-ups," Potgieter said.

"He is a very honest man and he told me he loved it there. It's an awesome place, awesome city and he just wished he'd played more. That's the only thing that he said he wasn't happy about, but otherwise he loved it there."

Potgieter, 27, is something of a late bloomer. After coming through the Sharks development system, he only decided to take rugby seriously four years ago and began his climb up in 2009 when he played Currie Cup first division for Eastern Province. He played Currie Cup proper for the Blue Bulls in 2011.

With a shock of black hair, Potigieter throwing his body around was easy to spot, as was the trail of bodies strewn behind. A Super Rugby debut followed in 2012, and a Test debut came against England as well.

In South Africa, where backrowers grow on hardwood trees, the rapid rise indicates the Tahs have bought well.

Jake White says the ingrained physicality of African rugby comes down to a production line of hungry players in the wings, busting to prove they're tougher than the next man.

"That's very true," Potgieter says.

"There's so much competition in South Africa, especially in the loose forwards, you have to be more focussed and work harder than the next guy. Otherwise you are not going to get anywhere."

Potgieter says he hasn't sacrificed his dream to play for the Springboks again by moving to NSW.  With Boks coach Heyneke Meyer now happy to pick Test teams stuffed with overseas-based players, it was part of the reason he elected to choose Sydney over London, Paris or Tokyo.

"If I play Super Rugby, I am going to play against the South African sides so you're going to get seen. If you play in France, you might not get seen so much," he says. "If you have a good season, it doesn't matter where you play, the coach can see you."

Potgieter spoke with Meyer before he left for Japan, and ultimately Sydney next February. His message sounded familiar.

"He said: "Please look after yourself"."

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Turner edging closer to Reds deal

Turner has endured a horror run with injury over the past two years. Source: AP

FORMER Wallabies finisher Lachie Turner is on the brink of signing a deal to play with the Reds in 2014 in a shrewd move that will bolster the club's depleted wing stocks.

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A broken leg in April ruined this season for Turner, 26, who is eager to continue his 71-game Super Rugby career which has stalled with NSW Waratahs.

His experience as a winger of 15 Tests would be a valuable salve for the loss of Digby Ioane (Stade Francais) and Luke Morahan (Western Force).

Turner has his own injury to fully overcome but he does offer insurance with Dom Shipperley (shoulder) and Rod Davies (knee) at the start of long recoveries from surgery.

The Reds have announced 28 of the 30 names who will be on their 2014 playing roster but it is the hunt for a missing link like Turner which is the head-turner.

University's sharp-stepping Jamie-Jerry Taulagi, 20 and still qualified to play for Samoa, has been signed as a foreign development player. His exciting attacking ways will be measured against GPS in Saturday's Premier Rugby preliminary final at Ballymore.

Backrower Jarrad Butler, who played 11 times for the Reds this season, has switched to the Brumbies.

New coach Richard Graham has locked up the core group who have taken the Reds to the Super Rugby finals for the past three seasons.

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He has also shown huge faith in inking new deals for lock Dave McDuling, who didn't play a game for the Reds in 2012-13 because of two knee surgeries, and injury-prone back Aidan Toua.

Toua has played just five times for the Reds over the past three seasons. He could easily have been let go but, at 23, Toua's best can still be ahead.

Forwards Albert Anae, James Hanson and Beau Robinson are locked in to the end of 2015, prop Ben Daley will be a Red until the end of 2016 and boom youngster Chris Feauai-Sautia has re-signed for 2014.

While exciting young backrower Curtis Browning will have a bigger role in 2014, the Reds forward ranks look short on dynamism and line-busting power overall.

"We have retained the core group of players who have delivered Queensland rugby success over the past three seasons. We have worked hard on establishing a culture that the players want to be a part of," Graham said.

Reds 2014 squad: Backs: W Genia, N Frisby, Q Cooper, B Lucas, A Faingaa, M Harris, B Tapuai, C Feauai-Sautia, R Davies, D Shipperley, J-J Taulagi, A Toua. Forwards: S Faingaa, J Hanson, A Anae, B Daley, G Holmes, J Slipper, J Owen, J Horwill, R Simmons, E O'Donoghue, E Quirk, D McDuling, L Gill, B Robinson, J Schatz, C Browning, 2 to be named. 

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Knights win comes at a cost

Kurt Gidley of the Knights is injured. Source: Bradley Kanaris / Getty Images

NEWCASTLE have secured alll but secure their place in the top eight as they ended Brisbane's finals hopes but it may have come at the expense of losing skipper Kurt Gidley for the season.

3 Tries 5
Corey Parker 10'	Joseph Leilua 40'
Andrew McCullough 14'	Kurt Gidley 48'
Corey Oates 72'	Darius Boyd 60'
	Joseph Leilua 67'
	Darius Boyd 78'
2 Conversions 3
Scott Prince 12'	Kurt Gidley 40'
Scott Prince 16'	Tyrone Roberts 49'
	Tyrone Roberts 69'
1 Penalties 0
Scott Prince 19'

Broncos captain Sam Thaiday was sent to the sin bin for a professional foul in the 46th minute and Kurt Gidley went over for a try a minute later, injuring his ankle in the process.

The skipper was then taken from the field on a stretcher with a lower leg injury. 

Thaiday returned but did little to inspire the home side with Darius Boyd crashing over to give the Knights a two-point lead for the first time in the match.

Josepth Leilua ran 60 metres to get the Knights ahead by eight points.

Broncos winger Corey Oates broke through the defence to narrow the gap to 22-18 but Scott Prince was unable to convert from touch. 

At the death, Boyd crossed for his second to secure the win for the visitors. 

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Wanderers to tour Japan and China

The Wanderers will tour Japan and China. Source: Gregg Porteous / News Limited

THE Western Sydney Wanderers will embark on its first ever tour of Asia next month when they play two matches in Japan and one in China.

The 'WanderTour' will take in three cities during a 13-day preseason tour that includes visits to Tokyo and Shizuoka in Japan, followed by Guangzhou, the capital of the Guangdong province in China.

Their first game will be in Shizuoka against Shimizu S-Pulse, the former club of star player Shinji Ono. The team will then travel to China for a six day training camp in Guangzhou and a match against
Sven-Goran Eriksson's Guangzhou R&F, the home of Australian players Eddie Bosnar and Rostyn Griffiths.

They will return to Tokyo for a match against J-2 side Tokyo Verdy.

It is understood the club had been trying to arrange a game against another former club of Ono's, Urawa Red Diamonds, but the scheduling wouldn't allow for it.

The Wanderers' first venture into Asia will provide valuable experience ahead of their 2014 debut in the Asian Champions League.

Meanwhile former Socceroo Luke Casserly has been appointed to a newly-introduced role as Football Federation Australia's head of national performance.

Chief executive David Gallop said 39-year-old Casserly, who played eight games for Australia in the late 1990s and early 2000s, would oversee management of FFA's national teams unit and elite player development.

He is the effective replacement for John Boultbee, the administrator who ran the national teams unit but quit to pursue rowing interests earlier this year.

Casserly has spent the past nine years working as an executive in the fresh produce industry.

He previously played 10 seasons in the now-defunct National Soccer League — including winning a championship with Marconi — and three years as a professional player in Europe.

The former defender also represented Australia at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and was head coach at NSW Premier League side Marconi Stallions.

Gallop said Casserly brought the right mix of football experience and management skills to the new position.

"The fact that Luke has in recent times coached in the semi-professional ranks in NSW and now is a volunteer youth coach shows he will bring to the role first-hand knowledge of the game from grassroots to the professional tier, " he said in a statement on Thursday.

The appointment is part of Gallop's ongoing restructure of the FFA following his arrival in August last year.

Meanwhile, the FFA's national technical director Han Berger has announced he will not seek to renew his contract when it expires in July next year.

 

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Only ever one choice for Izzy

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LEAGUE never stood a chance. While Israel Folau had fleeting thoughts about the offer presented to him by NRL clubs, his immediate affinity with union meant he wasn't going back even for the most enticing offer.

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"I feel like it would be a waste if I left the game after one year," Folau said.

"I feel like there is a lot more to tick off, so that's the reason I decided to go another two years."

Folau will remain in Australian rugby and at NSW Waratahs until the end of 2015, taking in the World Cup in England and Wales.

Asked if he had seriously considered a return to the NRL, Folau replied: "Not really, I had thoughts about it at times and spoke to my family about it but from the day I came to the Tahs and started playing rugby, I've really enjoyed it.

"It is really hard to leave after a year.

"At times I thought about it, but otherwise I enjoy the game of rugby."

Under the guidance of NSW coach Michael Cheika, Folau has flourished into one of the most damaging ball-runners in the game.

It was after the Super Rugby season was finished, a period that took in the historic British & Irish Lions series, Folau had made his mind up to stay, but had to wait for his management and the ARU to work out the finer details of top-up and third-party payments for his contract.

"Once the season was done, I kind of knew this is the game I feel I can take things to another level," Folau said.

"I'm obviously close with my parents and they were just happy for me.

"After that Lions series I really thought that 'This is it'."

All the stars aligned with Folau's defection to the 15-man game, given the Lions tour Australia just once every 12 years.

"That had a big part to play, I guess I came into rugby in the right year, with the Lions series on," he said.

"I'm just lucky to be a part of it.

"The hype around the series was huge, during that time it's something I hadn't experienced before, and something very exciting."

Now attention turns to Folau's future at the Wallabies, where he was largely restricted in the opening two Bledisloe Cup clashes compared to his usual lofty standards.

While he has played all five of his Tests on the wing for Australia it's no secret that he wants the fullback role.

"I enjoy playing fullback the most really," he said.

"Playing on the wing is good but my favourite position is playing fullback, there's just a lot more space and the range to come into line when you can.

"That's what I enjoy and how I feel I can play my best footy.

"With the Wallabies I'm happy to be on the wing, it's entirely up to the coaching staff to see if they want to make changes."

Folau added: "The All Blacks did a great job ... part of their tactics was to kick it to the opposite winger.

"But that's going to happen sometimes, I'm going to have to find ways to get myself into the game, and that's just getting partnerships and combinations with players inside me, mainly the No.9, 10 and 12.

"I'm going to have to start doing that at training and it will become second nature in games."

With Folau and Kurtley Beale now signed to NSW, halfback Nick Phipps coming from Melbourne and utility Jono Lance from Queensland, the Waratahs will field one of the best backlines in their history in 2014, and Folau believes they can finally win the Super Rugby title.

"That's the thing as a playing group we've got to try to engrave in ourselves, from day one of pre-season, we just need that self-belief," Folau said.

"If everyone gets that, and we work hard, I think we can go a long way.

"It's up to use as a group to determine that, but for myself I think we're a really good side and we can do a lot of good things."

As for his own progress, Folau was unequivocal.

"I really want to nail the game, I feel like I'm just getting started," Folau said.

"I don't know how many games I've played, maybe 16 or so, so there is a long way to go.

"I'm very excited about that."

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Earl tweet a sign disaster loomed

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SANDOR Earl knew what was coming.

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And a tweet he sent out on Wednesday now makes more sense for the now disgraced rugby league player who has been stood down on serious charges involving peptides.

"Sometimes you've got to fall before you fly," the Raiders winger sent out to his almost 10,000 followers.

The fall came swiftly with Earl issued an infraction notice for the use and trafficking of CJC-1295.

Earl was supposed to head to French rugby after this season but his only immediate thought is trying to save a career if there is a career to save.

 

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Daisy loss a Collingwood gain

Pies won't be left empty handed if Dale Thomas leaves. Source: Wayne Ludbey / HeraldSun

COLLINGWOOD would be handed its fifth first-round draft pick in two seasons if injury-plagued midfielder Dale Thomas quit the club.

On current ladder order the Pies would receive draft pick No. 13 and clear about $500,000 in salary cap space if Thomas left to join Carlton as compensation under free agency rules.

Thomas, who has played five games amid persistent ankle injury trouble this year, is weighing up an opportunity to join former coach Michael Malthouse at Carlton.

Key Pies are extremely confident the No. 2 draft pick will stay at Collingwood.

But a more lucrative deal would await him at Carlton where the Blues could offer Thomas in the vicinity of $600,000 a year after completing a major list turnover.

The Pies are under more salary cap pressure than the Blues and might be restricted to a $450,000 or $500,000 a year limit for Thomas.

His market value has dropped significantly but the Blues would have to offer a knock-out deal the Pies cannot match.

Thomas, 26, has not ruled out leaving the club.

"Never say never - I've got to get some money my pocket,'' he said this year.

Collingwood is believed to be eyeing Brisbane Lions wingman Patrick Karnezis, who has already told the Lions he wants out.

There is significant confusion within the AFL industry about Thomas's value due to his recurring ankle breakdowns this year.

Broad-ranging estimates from list managers and talent managers vary between $400,000 and $600,000 a year for Thomas.

Thomas is consulting with Collingwood doctors about his recovery options which includes potential surgery on his ankle.

The silver lining of Thomas's departure would come in the form of a first-round compensation pick that would follow Collingwood's first selection in this year's draft.

The Pies netted three first round picks, No. 18, No. 19 and No. 20, which delivered Brodie Grundy, Ben Kennedy and Tim Broomhead. Given the Pies draft success rates, another two stars this year taken at No. 12 and No.13 as it stands would deliver a quality core of top-end talent.

Brodie Grundy picks up another kick against the Eagles. Source: Getty Images

It would provide a strong base for Collingwood to compete with new franchises Gold Coast and Greater Western Sydney when their star-studded siders mature into finals contenders.

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Teams: Raiders freeze Fergo out

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BLAKE Ferguson looks to have played his last game for the Raiders after he was left out of interim coach Andrew Dunemann's side for the second straight week.

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While there's still no Ferguson for Canberra the Raiders do get skipper Terry Campese back for Saturday's trip to Auckland to face the Warriors.

With the match a virtual elimination final, Campese will join Anthony Milford in the halves, with Josh McCrone moving to hooker for the dumped Shaun Berrigan.

The other big news out of the team announcements was the four Burgess brothers.

They are in line to take the field together for the first time, with the quartet named in an extended South Sydney squad to meet Wests Tigers on Friday night.

The Englishmen have become a dominant feature of a Rabbitohs pack in sight of the NRL minor premiership, with Sam Burgess' return from a two-game suspension opening the door for the brothers to run out together.

Luke and Sam were both named to start, while twins Tom and George are part of a six-man bench to be culled before the game.

Not even in their native England did all four manage to play alongside each other, the brothers set to accomplish a feat not seen since Roy, Ray, Rex and Bernard Norman took the field together in 1910.

"I played with Sam and George last year, I've played with Tom and George together, I've played with Sam, but we've never all been on the field at the same time," said Luke, who misses the first half of the season with a shoulder injury.

"We've obviously mentioned it, but we're just really enjoying being part of the same club.

"We're really trying to build a culture where we're not just four brothers, the whole squad we bond as brothers."

That camaraderie has the Rabbitohs eyeing off first spot.

Should they beat the Tigers, Souths will take on arch-rivals Sydney Roosters in the final round with the winner to claim the minor premiership.

Benji Marshall returns to five-eighth for his 200th game for the Tigers, while Robbie Farah is back on deck as he becomes the most capped Wests Tigers player with his 202nd appearance.

Brisbane welcome back Alex Glenn for Friday night's crunch game against a Newcastle side without the suspended Kade Snowden, who copped a seven-match ban for a shoulder charge.

The return of Willie Mason from injury softens the blow.

Gold Coast coach John Cartwright admitted his side may need a relaxing of the salary cap rules to field a side against the Sydney Roosters - which injuries taking their toll on the holiday strip.

Cartwright named TBC in the No.16 jumper so thin were his options.

Luke Bailey (ankle) and co-captain Greg Bird (back) were both named, but face fitness tests before being given the all-clear.

Manly welcome back Brett Stewart but Anthony Watmough has joined Brent Kite on the sidelines for Saturday night's top-four clash against Melbourne.

North Queensland have handed a debut to under 20s hooker Jayden Hodges, the cousin of injured Broncos star Justin, for Sunday's vital trip to Cronulla.

Hodges will start from the bench, with Rory Kostjasyn moving to the No.9 to replace Ray Thompson, the unfortunate victim of Snowden's shoulder charge as he nurses a broken jaw.

Canterbury coach Des Hasler has handed a debut to young forward Lachlan Burr as replacement for the suspended Frank Pritchard for the game against Penrith.

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Where will your club finish?

The finals fate of Richmond and Jack Riewoldt is in their own hands. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: Philip Hillyard / HeraldSun

WITH one round to go the ladder is far from settled. Matt Windley does the maths and predicts where your club will finish.

1. HAWTHORN
72pts 137.1%
R23: Sydney, ANZ Stadium

Matt says: Pretty simple equation. If Hawthorn wins it will claim the minor premiership and play against Sydney again the following week, most likely at the MCG on Friday night. If the Hawks lose and Geelong win then Alastair Clarkson's men will finish second and play Fremantle, probably at Etihad Stadium on the Saturday afternoon. Ouch. Who said there was nothing on the line in the game against the Swans?

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2. GEELONG
68pts 138.0%
R23: Brisbane Lions, Simonds Stadium

Matt says: Can still finish top, can still finish third. If Geelong defeats the Brisbane Lions it will finish first if Hawthorn loses against Sydney on Friday night. That would likely result in an MCG qualifying final against Sydney on the following Friday or Saturday. If the Cats beat the Lions but the Hawks also win then Chris Scott's men will finish second and then play against Fremantle at Etihad Stadium, probably on the Saturday afternoon. If they somehow lose to the Lions, a Dockers win would see the Cats slip to third and travel to Perth for a qualifying final the following Saturday.

3. FREMANTLE
66pts 141.8%
R23: St Kilda, Etihad Stadium

Matt says: Unlikely to shift from third. To jump to second the Dockers would have to win and hope Geelong somehow loses to the Brisbane Lions at Simonds Stadium. To drop to fourth the Dockers would have to lose to St Kilda, Sydney would have to defeat Hawthorn and those two results would also have to erase the percentage gap of 6.3 per cent between the two sides. If ladder positions remain as they are now, Fremantle will play Geelong in the qualifying final, probably at Etihad Stadium on the Saturday afternoon.

4. SYDNEY
62pts 135.5%
R23: Hawthorn, ANZ Stadium

Matt says: To finish anywhere other than fourth Sydney would have to defeat Hawthorn comfortably and hope Fremantle suffers a shock - and big - loss to lowly St Kilda. A loss to Hawthorn on Friday night would guarantee that they play the Hawks again the following week.

5. RICHMOND
56pts 121.4%
R23: Essendon, MCG

Matt says: Richmond has its week one destiny in its own hands after the big win against Greater Western Sydney. A win over Essendon this week would pretty much guarantee a fifth-placed finish - barring a huge, huge win by Collingwood against North Melbourne the following day - which would mean the Tigers will play the lucky team that steals eighth spot as a result of the Bombers' expected forfeiture. That team could be Carlton, which beat the Tigers a couple of weeks ago, or even the Kangaroos, who smashed the Tigers a couple of months ago. That team, however, could also be Adelaide, Brisbane Lions or West Coast, which would be a much better result for Damien Hardwick's men - but playing an interstate team could also mean the Tigers are punted to Etihad Stadium for their elimination final.

6. COLLINGWOOD
56pts 116.7%
R23: North Melbourne, MCG

Matt says: Collingwood appears pretty-well locked in to sixth place. A Richmond loss to Essendon on Saturday night means Collingwood will finish fifth with a win over North Melbourne. That could be a good result for the Magpies as that would - assuming they win their first final - potentially put them in the path of Sydney for a semi-final at ANZ Stadium. Finishing sixth would mean an MCG elimination final for the Pies against Port Adelaide on Sunday, September 8. The winner of that game could, if Fremantle loses its qualifying final, be headed for Perth in the semis.

7. ESSENDON
56pts 109.7%
R23: Richmond, MCG

Matt says: Unfortunately for Essendon, its gallant win over Carlton on Saturday night will probably count for nothing. The Bombers being stripped of their points would create a frantic battle for eighth spot between five sides.

8. PORT ADELAIDE
48pts 102.6%
R23: Carlton, AAMI Stadium
Matt says: Can't move of its own accord. Essendon losing points would lock Port Adelaide into seventh spot.

THE RACE FOR NINTH

9. CARLTON
40pts 107.0%
R23: Port Adelaide, AAMI Stadium

Matt says: If Essendon is out ... Carlton will make the finals with a win over Port Adelaide. If the Blues lose they can still finish eighth, but only if Brisbane Lions and North Melbourne both lose and the winner of the Adelaide v West Coast game doesn't pass them on percentage.

10. BRISBANE LIONS
40pts 89.1%
R23: Geelong, Simonds Stadium
Matt says: If Essendon is out ... Brisbane Lions will make the finals with a win over Geelong coupled with a Carlton loss to Port Adelaide.

11. NORTH MELBOURNE
36pts 120.2%
R23: Collingwood, MCG

Matt says: If Essendon is out ... North Melbourne will make the finals if Carlton and Brisbane Lions both lose and it defeats Collingwood at the MCG on Sunday.

12. ADELAIDE
36pts 103.7%
R23: West Coast, Patersons Stadium

Matt says: If Essendon is out ... Adelaide can make the finals if each of Carlton, Brisbane Lions and North Melbourne lose and it defeats West Coast. However, the Blues' loss and the Crows' win would also have to result in a four per cent swing to Brenton Sanderson's men - which is quite possible.

13. WEST COAST
36pts 99.2%
R23: Adelaide, Patersons Stadium

Matt says: If Essendon is out ... West Coast can make the finals if each of Carlton, Brisbane Lions and North Melbourne lose and it defeats Adelaide. However, the Blues' loss and the Eagles' win would also have to result in an eight per cent swing to John Worsfold's men - which is unlikely.

14. GOLD COAST
28pts 87.4%
R23: Greater Western Sydney, Metricon Stadium

Matt says: After a disappointing loss to St Kilda, Gold Coast will be desperate to finish off what has otherwise been a fantastic season with a win against Greater Western Sydney. Can't finish any higher but could be overtaken by the Dogs.

15. WESTERN BULLDOGS
28pts 83.6%
R23: Melbourne, Etihad Stadium

Matt says: The Bulldogs were gallant again against the Brisbane Lions on the weekend. The Dogs need to defeat Melbourne after suffering a shock loss to the Demons in Round 14. A Dogs win combined with a Gold Coast loss will see the club jump to 14th on the ladder.

16. ST KILDA
16pts 78.8%
R23: Fremantle, Etihad Stadium

Matt says: St Kilda gave it's long-suffering fans something to cheer about last weekend, but the task this weekend is extremely tough against a Fremantle side still in the running for a top-two spot. The Saints will finish 16th but hopefully Justin Koschitzke, Stephen Milne and Jason Blake are sent off in fitting fashion.

17. MELBOURNE
8pts 52.9%
R23: Western Bulldogs, Etihad Stadium

Matt says: Melbourne can still get the wooden spoon if it loses to the Western Bulldogs and Greater Western Sydney defeats Gold Coast.

18. GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
4pts 51.4%
R23: Gold Coast, Metricon Stadium

Matt says: There remain two points of interest in the Giants' final game. A win against Gold Coast could hand off the wooden spoon to Melbourne - assuming the Demons lose to the Bulldogs. And Jeremy Cameron still remains in contention for the Coleman Medal despite a goalless effort against Richmond last week.

MATT WINDLEY'S PREDICTED LADDER:

1. Hawthorn 19-3
2. Geelong 18-4
3. Fremantle 17-1-4
4. Sydney 15-1-6
5. Richmond 15-7
6. Collingwood 15-7
7. Port Adelaide 13-9
8. Carlton 10-12
--------
9. Adelaide 10-12
10. Brisbane Lions 10-12
11. North Melbourne 9-13
12. West Coast 9-13
13. Gold Coast 8-14
14. Western Bulldogs 8-14
15. St Kilda 4-18
16. Melbourne 2-20
17. Greater Western Sydney 1-21
18. Essendon 14-8*

Which would mean ...

WEEK 1 FINALS:
Hawthorn v Sydney, MCG (Friday night)
Geelong v Fremantle, Etihad Stadium (Saturday afternoon)
Richmond v Carlton, MCG (Saturday night)
Collingwood v Port Adelaide, MCG (Sunday afternoon)

WEEK 2 FINALS:
Loser of Haw v Syd // winner of Rich v Carl
Loser of Geel v Frem // winner of Coll v P.A

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Essendon out of finals, Hird suspended

ESSENDON is out of the finals, coach James Hird has been banned from football for 12 months and the club was fined $2 million after a "deeply disturbing" chapter in the game - the supplements scandal.

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Essendon said sorry for their role in the saga but revealed they intended to give Hird his job back as senior coach when his suspension ends.

AFL chairman Mike Fitzpatrick has handed down the penalties after Essendon agreed to plead guilty to bringing the game into disrepute. He said Hird apologised to the AFL for his involvement. 

The Bombers have been fined $2 million and will forfeit its place in the 2013 finals series, finishing officially ninth.

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The club is prohibited from exercising its first and second-round picks in next two drafts.

Hird is banned from working at any AFL club in any capacity for 12 months effective August 25 this year but is in contract negotiations to resume his career in time for the 2014 finals.

Essendon football manager Danny Corcoran is banned for six months - two of them suspended - effective October 1 this year.

Assistant coach Mark Thompson has been fined $30,000.

The case against club doctor Bruce Reid was adjourned to Thursday.

The Bombers pleaded guilty to bringing the game into disrepute and assistant coach  Thompson and  Corcoran agreed that as a consequence of their actions the club breached AFL rule 1.6.

FItzpatrick told fans the AFL "shares your anger" that the season has been dominated by the scandal, which he said was "deeply disturbing."

Fitzpatrick said the club never set out to submit a supplement program that stepped outside the WADA code. 

But he said it was "experimental" and "inadequately vetted and controlled" and the club "failed to adequately protect the health of players".

"On behalf of the AFL Commission I want to send a clear message that nothing and no one can come ahead of the duty of care owed to our players and the integrity of the competition," AFL chairman Mike FItzpatrick said.

The decision follows two days of negotiations at AFL House.

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"This matter has been a wakeup call for our sport," Fitzpatrick said.

"A number of significant lessons have been learned, and changes made.

"I believe the AFL competition as a whole emerges stronger and far more resistant to the growing risks and threats that are challenging sports around the world.

"The outcome reached today, in addition to the support last week from the 17 other clubs and also the AFL Players Association, is a powerful and enduring affirmation that no single club or individual is above our great game."

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou said Hird had accepted that his actions breached the rules by providing a risk that players could have taken prohibited substances - although there was no evidence "at the moment" to issue infraction notices.

"ASADA have made it very clear that their investigation remains open," he said.

Demetriou said the saga was a "complex issue" that the AFL had taken "very seriously".

"Hopefully we can all put this behind us.

"The AFL has a duty to all of its stakeholders that we look after our players."

He said the AFL needed to remind everyone that when young men go to a football club, they'll be welcomed into a "professional environment", and that no one in the industry has enjoyed this "sorry saga".

Hird did not front the media but Essendon chairman Paul Little said: "We are sorry. We have learned from our mistakes and made significant reforms."

Little added: "There is no doubt in my mind that James Hird agreed to accept these penalties tonight so that the club could move on.

"With his admission James has put the best interests of the players, the club and as a whole AFL football."

Little described the penalties as "tough but fair".

"I think the players probably do feel let down," Little said.

"All I can say to them is there is a clear way forward and ask that they forgive us for mistakes that we've made."

The club tonight accepted their penalties and admitted there were "failings" during the 2012 supplement program.

"We recognise that failings occurred at our club during this period. We must - and do - accept accountability and apologise for them," Little said.

"We have learnt from our mistakes and made substantial reforms to our governance and people management practices to ensure the club will never be in this position again."

But he stressed that the final settlement is significantly different to the allegations released by the AFL.

"The AFL acknowledges that neither Essendon Football Club nor any of the individuals charged set out to implement a supplements program that would result in players being administered prohibited or potentially harmful substances."

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Hird will be back: Little

James Hird will be back. Source: Quinn Rooney / Getty Images

ESSENDON Chairman Paul Little tonight confirmed James Hird will coach Essendon again after serving his 12-month suspension.

Hird will be banned from working for any AFL club in any capacity after he gave up his fight against the AFL and pleaded guilty to bringing the game into disrepute.

His ban is backdated to start on August 25 which means he can return in time for next year's finals - but that he won't be in charge for Essendon's final home-and-away game against Richmond on Saturday night.

Assistant coach Simon Goodwin will coach against the Tigers.

Little said he had already had three people put up their hand to take the caretaker coach role, but would not reveal their names.

Hird can attend AFL matches but cannot be paid by the Bombers in any capacity.

Little described the penalties as "tough but fair".

"I think the players probably do feel let down," Little said.

"All I can say to them is there is a clear way forward and ask that they forgive us for mistakes that we've made."

The club tonight accepted their penalties and admitted there were "failings" during the 2012 supplement program.

"We recognise that failings occurred at our club during this period. We must - and do - accept accountability and apologise for them," Mr Little said.

"We have learnt from our mistakes and made substantial reforms to our governance and people management practices to ensure the club will never be in this position again."

But he stressed that the final settlement is significantly different to the allegations released by the AFL.

"The AFL acknowledges that neither Essendon Football Club nor any of the individuals charged set out to implement a supplements program that would result in players being administered prohibited or potentially harmful substances."

The club will not play finals, pay a $2 million fine and will lose its first two draft pick in the 2013 and 2014 drafts.

Football manager Danny Corcoran will be suspended for four months and senior assistant coach Mark Thompson will be fined $30,000. Dr Bruce Reid has decided to contest the charges against him.

Mr Little said the process had been difficult for all involved but especially for the players.

"This process has been exceptionally taxing on everyone at the club - but no more so than for our players, these four individuals and their families. Throughout, they have conducted themselves with great dignity and loyalty to Essendon."

AFL STATEMENT ON JAMES HIRD

The AFL and James Hird agree that in 2011-2012 EFC implemented, while Hird was senior coach of the club, the program, which was inadequately vetted and controlled.

It is agreed by the AFL and James Hird that:

HE CONTRIBUTED to the Essendon FC's failure to take sufficient steps to ensure the health, welfare and safety of players in relation to the program.

WHEN he became aware of facts that suggested that unsatisfactory practices were occurring, the action he took was not sufficient to stop those practices.

HE DID not take sufficient steps to avoid there being a risk that players may have been administered substances that were prohibited by the AFL Anti-Doping Code and the World Anti-Doping Code, and any such risk is an unacceptable risk.

AS SENIOR Coach, he shares responsibility for the inadequate governance within EFC's football department,

AND in consequence, Hird accepts that the Essendon FC breached Rule 1.6 of the AFL Player Rules.

PENALTIES

By reason of the matters referred to above:

The AFL will impose a 12 month suspension from the AFL effective from 25 August 2013;

James Hird will not work with any AFL Club in any capacity during this period; and

James Hird accepts this suspension.

The AFL and James Hird consider that the best interests of the game and its supporters are served by a resolution of this matter now given James Hird's willingness to resolve the matter.

The AFL acknowledges that:

No breaches of the AFL Anti-Doping Code have been established to date;

James Hird did not set out to implement a supplements program that would result in players being administered WADA prohibited or harmful substances;

James Hird's willingness to resolve the matter as described above is appropriate action by him in the circumstances.

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Cycling boss urges Aussies to come clean

Cycling Australia has endorsed the bid by Brian Cookson to become the next president of the UCI. Source: AAP

BRITISH Cycling boss Brian Cookson has urged any Australians not telling the whole truth about doping to come clean, after Cycling Australia on Monday endorsed him as their preferred candidate for president of the sport's world governing body.

Cookson, who addressed the CA board in Sydney last weekend, is in the midst of a bitter election campaign with current UCI president, Pat McQuaid, who is seeking a third term in office.

A total of 42 votes from around the world will determine the outcome of the election on September 27 in Florence.

Cookson said it could take from two-to-five years to re-establish credibility in a sport that has been rocked by a series of doping scandals, most notably the one involving seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong.

Australia's reputation has also taken a battering in recent times, with Matt White, Stephen Hodge and Stuart O'Grady all admitting to doping.

"People don't do themselves any favours by telling part of the truth because inevitably sooner or later the whole truth comes out," Cookson told AAP in Sydney on Monday.

"I would encourage anybody, not just the people named but others in that situation, that the sooner they tell all the truth, the better it will be for all of us and for them."

CA President Klaus Mueller said his board decided Cookson was the best candidate to restore the sport and UCI's credibility.

He said CA enjoyed a very good relationship with McQuaid, who addressed them by teleconference over the weekend, but was sharply critical of the reigning UCI boss.

"The inadequate response in dealing with the fallout from the Armstrong affair and subsequent allegations brought against the UCI has emphasised a need for leadership change to allow the sport to move on and realise its enormous potential," Mueller said.

Cookson described Cycling Australia's endorsement of him as very significant.

"Hopefully that will spread to the rest of Oceania and the whole three votes of Oceania will come my way," Cookson said.

"I don't take that for granted."

Cookson it would be difficult but not impossible to beat Irishman McQuaid, who has lambasted his manifesto for being half-baked financially impractical and fundamentally flawed.

"I'm confident that I'm going to win, but I'm not taking it for granted, there's still a lot of work to be done," Cookson said.

Despite the great track rivalry between Australia and Britain, Cookson said the two countries enjoyed a good off-track relationship and he got on well with Australia's senior UCI official, Tracey Gaudry.

"I think she's an absolute benefit, a blessing to UCI," Cookson said.

"To have a senior experienced woman involved in the administration of the international body is a really good thing."

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Ban disastrous for Hird: Thompson

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ESSENDON senior assistant Mark Thompson says it would be "disastrous" for James Hird's to be suspended for 12 months.

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Thompson spoke on FOX FOOTY'S AFL 360 soon after he, Hird, Danny Corcoran and club doctor Bruce Reid left AFL House after a day of intense negotiations.

"He's a young coach who is learning his way and he didn't deliberately set out to do anything wrong," Thompson said on AFL 360 following prolonged negotiations at AFL headquarters today.

"I would think that if the AFL knocked him out for 12 months he would struggle to want to get back.

"I call it the perfect storm because everybody has had some responsibility to it... not too many have more (responsibility) than others.

"It was a lot of people who probably made the wrong choices based on the current rules that are in place."

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Thompson refused to rule out walking away from the game.

"Anything's open... right here, right now is that I've been charged for being a drug cheat - and I'm not.

"I'm fighting for my reputation, my integrity and I want to clear my name."

But Thompson conceded he was ready to plead guilty as long as the AFL withdraw aspects of the charges laid against him.

"There was 80 per cent of it (charge sheet) that I want to fight...so unless it really gets serious and reflective of what I'm responsible for them we're going (legal action).

"We're trying to scrub as many off as we can, to be responsible and to be charged for what we think we are responsible for - what is fair in our eyes.

Negotiations involving Thompson, Essendon, coach James Hird, club doctor Bruce Reid and football manager Danny Corcoran would continue on Tuesday.

Essendon chairman Paul Little spoke on Saturday night of a middle ground, which meant that the AFL was prepared to drop the focus on drug cheating and instead hit the Dons with governance charges.

While the sanctions are unprecedented, attention will quickly turn to who fills the coaching void.

Thompson would be available given he will only be fined but has made it known he is not interested in a senior coaching position.

Former Bombers stars Mark Harvey and Neale Daniher have been linked to the club but a one-year secondment would not appeal if Hird was definitely returning.

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Scintillating Sharks shock Roosters

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THE NRL minor premiership - and the $100,000 prizemoney - has been blown wide open.

South Sydney and the Sydney Roosters - fierce 100-year eastern suburbs rivals - are now level-pegging on 38 competition with two rounds remaining after a shock result at Remondis Stadium on Monday night.

In front of a noisy home crowd, Cronulla moved into fifth place with a resounding 32-22 win over Sydney Roosters, who were outright competition leaders before on Monday night.

The Sharks are now guaranteed of a finals position, a remarkable effort after such a tumultuous season.

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It would now appear the minor premiership will be decided in what shapes as a round 26 epic between the Roosters and Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium.

Cronulla blew the Roosters off Remondis Stadium in the first half on Monday night, leading 26-0 at the break.

The Roosters dragged the scoreline back with two quick tries in the opening 12 minutes of the second half and a massive comeback suddenly loomed.

Roosters fullback Roger Tuivasa-Sheck looked to have scored in the 59th minute - to really put the fear into Cronulla - only for the try to be denied due to obstruction.

It was a dubious decision which prompted Roosters coach Trent Robinson to bang his palm into the glass of the coach's box.

The Roosters play Gold Coast this coming round, Souths confront Wests Tigers.

Both teams should win and would enter the final round level on 40 competition points.

Referees awarded 22 penalties on Monday night - too many again.

The Sharks scored four tries to nil in the first half for a 26-0 lead at the half-time break.

It was an astonishing first half effort from the Sharks.

Cronulla was given the first opportunity to score when five-eighth Todd Carney landed a 40-20 in the first minute of play.

From the next set of six, the Sharks scored a try to secure a perfect start.

Carney put through a short grubber kick into the Roosters in-goal area where back-rower Wade Graham chased through and looked set to score.

The ball though bounced off Graham's chest and propelled forward for Sharks skipper Paul Gallen to chase through and ground the ball.

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Some thought the ball bouncing off Graham's chest may have warranted a knock-on.

But video referees Luke Patten and Steve Clark awarded a try. It was certainly contentious.

Moments later Roosters forward Sonny Bill Williams was penalised for a short forearm on Cronulla winger Beau Ryan.

Ryan has been sending-up and mocking Williams all year on The Footy Show.

A few minutes later, Roosters prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves was penalised for a shoulder charge on Sharks hooker John Morris.

It was a ridiculous penalty.

Cronulla elected against taking the two points from right in front but fumbled the ball moments later.

A penalty goal would have given the home side a handy 8-0 lead. It appeared though that Cronulla learnt their lesson.

They received another penalty in the 20th minute and this time took the two points on offer for an eight point lead.

Cronulla's defence throughout the first half was robust and effective.

The Roosters had numerous sets of six pressuring Cronulla's tryline but the home side held strong.

There was plenty of collision in the opening 40 minutes - and plenty of penalties too.

Cronulla stretched their lead in the 31st minute when fullback Michael Gordon cut through to score from a neat set piece.

Bench player Anthony Tupou flicked a lovely inside ball to Gordon, who hit a hole and scored.

Carney converted to give his side a 14-0.

Nearing half-time Cronulla went further ahead when Tupou put centre Jono Wright into a hole metres from the Roosters tryline.

Wright barged his way over with Carney converting for a 20 point lead.

And then, right on halftime, Cronulla forward Chris Heighington stripped the ball from Roosters winger Shaun Kenny-Dowall and ran 15 metres to score.

It was becoming a massacre.

CRONULLA 32 (P Gallen M Gordon C Heighington J Wright tries T Carney 8 goals) bt SYDNEY ROOSTERS 22 (D Tupou 2 M Jennings D Mortimer tries J Maloney 3 goals) at Remondis Stadium. Referee: Henry Perenara, Ashley Klein. Crowd: 11,418. 

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Troisi exploring English options

James Troisi could find himself playing in England again. Source: Kym Smith / News Limited

SOCCEROOS James Troisi is in England after his Italian club Atalanta allowed the attacking midfielder to explore his options before the FIFA transfer window closes next week.

It's understood Troisi is negotiating with an English Premier League club after Italian media linked the Socceroo with English Championship club Blackburn Rovers.

Troisi was on the books of Newcastle United before landing a contract with Turkish clubs Genclerbirligi and Kayserispor. Juventus and Atalanta signed the attacker on a co-ownership deal last year.

It's believed Juventus and Atalanta are prepared to allow Troisi a loan deal if he is snapped up by an English Premier League club.

Troisi was told by Socceroos officials to be prepared for a call up for the friendly clash against Brazil on September 7 in Brasilia.

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Penthouse and Outhouse: Round 22

Victory ... James Hird sings the song after the win over Carlton. Source: Quinn Rooney / Getty Images

FOX FOOTY expert Julian de Stoop casts his eye over Round 22, liking Essendon's on-field efforts but disliking their ongoing off-field dramas.

Do you agree? Join the debate and have your say on the weekend's biggest incidents.

In The Penthouse

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Essendon players
Essendon are unlikely to be given the chance to compete for the premiership this year but in 2013 they may have set the foundations for future success.
Resilience and Essendon haven't gone hand in hand in recent years but the character the players have shown this year under extraordinary circumstances has to be admired.
It's likely to count for nothing but Essendon have pulled off some truly remarkable wins this season. Two come from behind wins in Perth and two famous victories over arch rivals Carlton will be remembered by Bomber fans for years.

Steven Motlop
The Cats have some fantastic young players but Steven Motlop is the pick of the litter.
The 22 year-old has kicked 47 goals in 20 games this season and against the Swans he put in a contender for mark of the year to go with his 3 goals.
It's not hard to see why Motlop has been compared to Hawks star Cyril Rioli.
And in further good news for Geelong fans he is on the verge of signing a new 2 year deal.

Zac Clarke
No Sandilands and no Griffen but there is still no worries for Ross Lyon in the big man department thanks to emerging ruckman Zac Clarke.
The 23 year-old is remarkable athlete for someone who stands 203 centrimetres and on current form he is shaping as one of the keys to Fremantle's finals hopes.
Clarke has been tried forward but like Essendon's Paddy Ryder and Carlton's Matthew Kreuzer he relishes the freedom the ruck brings.
Against Port Adelaide he was one of the best on the ground with 15 disposals, 2 goals and 30 hit outs.

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Collingwood's kids
Collingwood are unlikely to win the premiership this year but the future looks bright thanks to the emergence of some fine young players this season.
Injuries to midfielders Dale Thomas, Luke Ball, Dayne Beams and Clinton Young has given the likes of Josh Thomas and Paul Seedman extra opportunity and both have relished it.
Thomas had a career best 35 disposals against the Eagles while Seedsman also starred with 30 disposals.
Throw in young ruckman Brodie Grundy and Jarrad Witts and it's not hard to see why Nathan Buckley is excited about the future.

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Brad Crouch
Jaegar O'Meara will win this year's Rising Star but one man that is coming home with a rush is Adelaide's Brad Crouch.
Like the young Sun, Crouch was a priority selection for the Crows and spent a year honing his craft in the SANFL.
After being in and out of the side for the first half of the season the 19 year-old has played the past 9 matches and gets better every week.
Against the Demons he arguably had the best game of his fledgling career gathering 31 disposals.

In The Outhouse

Carlton
The Blues certainly missed key players Chris Judd, Matthew Kreuzer, Andrew Carrazzo and Andrew Walker against Essendon plus an early hamstring injury to Brock McLean only added to their problems but there is still no way Carlton should have lost this game.
The old saying of 'bad kicking is bad football' rang true with the Blues kicking just 9 goals from 31 scoring shots with Carlton failing to kick a goal in the final term.
Ironically the Blues may take the Bombers spot in the finals via default but given their form this season they barely deserve to be there.

West Coast
Two weeks ago John Worsfold looked a lock to be given a new contract but even by his own admission things have changed after two horrible losses to Geelong and Collingwood.
Their total of 5.9 on Friday night was their lowest ever score at the MCG.
Injuries have played their part but the Eagles have been the most disappointing of the season and after 12 years in the helm you do have to question whether John Worsfold is the right man to take this club forward.

Sydney Swans
The reigning premiers have got the staggers.
In the past 3 weeks they have been comprehensively beaten by fellow finalists Collingwood and Geelong and this week they face ladders leaders Hawthorn before a possible return bout against the Hawks in week one of the finals.
Rhyce Shaw is now out for the season with a serious knee injury with Adam Goodes and Lewis Jetta are both in a race against time to be fit for the finals.
You never write off the Swans but on current form the Hawks, Cats and Dockers have their measure.

Essendon saga
Last week was a terrible week for the game and we never want to see football matters end up in the Supreme Court.
Thankfully over the last 48 hours some sanity appears to have prevailed and publicly James Hird opened up and showed some contrition which many have been calling for.
Both parties are working hard to find a resolution before the finals.. a finals series unlikely to feature Essendon.
Throw in a record breaking fine, a likely suspension for James Hird and draft penalties and it's fair to say the Bombers are going to pay big time for their questionable supplements program of 2012.
But make no mistake the biggest penalty is becoming the first club in AFL history to be stripped of all its premiership points.
That's a stain the club has to live with forever and for the players simply heartbreaking in a season where they have consistently performed against the odds.

Hayden Ballantyne's "goal"
We have seen so many trivial score reviews this season but when Hayden Ballantyne failed to make contact with the ball in the goal square no review was called for.
Thankfully the match was one sided and Ballantyne's 'air swing' didn't have an impact on the result.

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Cynical Kiwis go unpunished

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THE All Blacks generally get the rub of the green with referees. On Saturday night they were given Swedish deep-tissue of the green by Jaco Peyper.

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Peyper's performance in the opening half was diabolical, and the IRB should think about packing the South African off for a mid-winter holiday.

Australia may not be as good a side as New Zealand and whingeing about referees is generally a mug's game. Odds are the Kiwis still would have lifted the Bledisloe post-match.

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But for the second week in a row the Wallabies were denied the fair opportunity to potentially rumble the All Blacks by weak officials failing to do their jobs.

Beating the Kiwis requires everything going your way. You have to have work like mules, throw them off their rhythm and score tries when rare opportunities arise.

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Australia did the first two for the opening half-hour but couldn't crack the All Blacks' defence with Peyper refereeing as tough as a puppy in wet Kleenex.

New Zealand are masters of the cynical, and when under pressure in their half, they'll break the law to slow your momentum down or stop it entirely. After a linebreak, it's pretty much standard.

Attacking teams think about scoreboard pressure and take the consolatory goal. Another rare try opportunity evaporates.

Most teams around the world practise this dark art but if done too often, the attacking team should finally get reward by the infringers losing a man to the bin.

Except when it comes to the All Blacks. Referees are now simply unwilling to hold New Zealand to account, particularly on home soil. Ask the French.

Since the year 2000, New Zealand has been given 46 cards in 166 Tests. From two less Tests, South Africa has been given 77 in 164 games. Fair difference.

The only ref who consistently called the Kiwis on their tricks and binned Richie McCaw was Stu Dickinson, who ultimately paid for it by being shuffled out of the Test roster.

In Sydney two weeks ago, the Wallabies were stopped on attack and took five shots at goal in the first half. New Zealand didn't even get a warning. In Wellington, Peyper penalised the All Blacks six times for infringing in their 22. Warning? Yellow card? Nope and nope.

When Christian Lealiifano broke through the line and almost scored, Peyper could have binned two men; Aaron Smith for slowing the ball down, and Kieran Read for tackling the halfback from an offside position. Both killed chances of a try. Both players stayed on the field.

Peyper told McCaw he gave Smith "the benefit of the doubt" about his intent. Sure did.

When Horwill said to the whistleblower the deliberate try-kill tactics were the same as the All Blacks used "last week", Peyper said: "It's a different game now".

No Jaco, it's all from the same playbook and you were getting gamed.

Peyper's snap decision to not send Stephen Moore's earlier try to the TMO was also poor. It certainly didn't scream no-try, so a second view was not only fair, it was just.

After all of Australia's early dominance, a try could have seen the visitors push out to a double-digit lead and have a 14-man All Blacks side battling to stay in the contest. That's a whole new ballgame.

Instead, Australia was only up 6-0 after 30 minutes and as they do brilliantly, the Kiwis scored minutes after the Smith-Read debacle. They scored again, held a halftime lead and New Zealand exhaled.

Let's be clear, the Wallabies only have themselves to blame for the tries, and ultimately the defeat. Structurally and practically defence was again poor, skill under the high ball was absent, scrum work was sloppy and their capacity to self-harm in the second half ensured another victory for the more composed All Blacks.

Turning over possession cheaply is a nasty Wallabies trait of recent times.

Perhaps the Wallabies were always going to get beaten. But maybe, if Peyper had shown some bottle in the opening half-hour, the Wallabies' confidence might have grown, instead of withering. The game might have gone down to the wire.

At least James Slipper won't remember Peyper's game. After the referee missed Ma'a Nonu's blatant shoulder charge to his head earlier, when Slipper was knocked out trying to tackle the centre later in the first half, Peyper clocked him lying face down in the turf and chose to play on. New Zealand scored again.

The IRB might want to send Peyper the guidebook on duty of care. A bit of holiday reading.

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How much has Ricky helped Parra?

Ricky Stuart watches the Eels. Source: Evans Mark / News Limited

IN his weekly column, Fox Sports expert and Canberra assistant coach Brett Kimmorley offers his thoughts on round 24 of the 2013 NRL Premiership season.

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Panthers v Broncos at Centrebet Stadium

Just when you thought Penrith's season was over they find form. Eighth position on the ladder is certainly highly contested with a number of teams vying for that spot. James Segeyaro has been the Panthers' buy of the season and showed just why that is on Friday night. He was outstanding every time he touched the ball. Brisbane had everything to play for but without Justin Hodges they struggled to create any team structure which had them looking like scoring points. The Broncos relied on a lot of individual brilliance from Sam Thaiday and Ben Hunt but Penrith showed why this season will be treated like a success for the club. Segeyaro, the emergence of Matt Moylan and others are signs for the future as Penrith continue to build. The news Peter Wallace will leave Brisbane at the end of the year and return to Penrith would have excited Panthers fans and perhaps some of the players knowing he will return in a matter of months. 

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Rabbitohs v Bulldogs at ANZ Stadium

Semi-finals football came early with this game. It was a match where both sides had to play tough and work hard for their points. South Sydney have answered some critics over the last two weeks, showing they can play a tough style of football. Adam Reynolds was extremely solid. He has such a strong running game, keeps his composure and forced repeat sets which built pressure for the Rabbitohs. Greg Inglis returned from a knee injury and while he is not 100 per cent, having him in the team gives the players around him a lot of confidence. The Roosters may be favourites but the Rabbitohs are certainly knocking on the door.  Canterbury-Bankstown tried extremely hard but I question their belief. They were a little lucky in the tries that they did score and failed to threaten the Rabbitohs often. Souths fans will be very proud of Friday's effort especially without two of their stars in Sam Burgess and Jeff Lima. 

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Dragons v Wests Tigers at SCG

The Wests Tigers made a fair statement. I have to admit I thought it would be a close match and even anticipated a Dragons win. It shows when you have a halfback who can steer the side around, run and challenge the line how much better your football side becomes. I don't want to put too much pressure on Luke Brooks. He showed some good signs in his debut but we don't need to label him as the saviour of Concord or put the pressure of being the next Andrew Johns on his young shoulders. He was a shining light and I'm sure it helped Brooks having Benji Marshall in the side and he played well in the centres. I think the second tier salary cap needs to be reviewed. These young kids should be allowed to earn their apprenticeship when injuries occur or when they are a player of the future. Mick Potter will be pleased with the performance. Over the last few weeks he made some comments that he wanted to change their style of football and we saw the start of that with Benji Marshall out of the halves.

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Titans v Warriors at Skilled Park

This was an outstanding game of football and unfortunately for the Titans, it is the same old story, injury has cruelled them all year. Mark Minichiello became the first Titans player to reach 150 games but took a massive head knock early in the match and we never saw him again while Ashley Harrison injured his wrist. The Titans were courageous and played well in their last home game but they ran out of puff. The Warriors were handed a lot of penalties with the Titans trying to slow the ruck down and were able to find some class and score. Shaun Johnson had some wonderful touches of the ball but I would have liked to have seen him spend more time with the ball. Konrad Hurrell was back to his damaging best with Kevin Locke all class at the back. The Warriors now join the Titans on 24 points to stay in the hunt for eighth place. It was an exciting game with a try disallowed at fulltime. I think we need to look at the video referees review system. I have an issue with the officials saying 'no try' and asking the video box to find evidence to over-rule it. I am not convinced that Kevin Gordon placed the ball on the dead ball line and even if he did, I believe the Titans should have been awarded a penalty for the Warriors player sliding in with his legs. I don't think the referees even witnessed the contact from the legs. The Titans were hard done by on Saturday.   

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Cowboys v Knights at 1300SMILES Stadium

Only a few weeks ago the Cowboys were unhappy and playing extremely poor under Neil Henry. Unfortunately player power has a big role to play in football these days and since the news broke that Henry will not be at the club next season, the players are happy and it is showing in their form. The Cowboys are now playing to the potential we expected of the Cowboys as they wait to play under a new coach. They were too fast and out-enthused Newcastle. Unfortunately they have lost Ray Thompson for the rest of the season to a broken jaw. It has come at the worst time as the Cowboys have struggled in that position and looked to have finally got the combination between the one, six, seven and nine firing on all cylinders. The good thing is they have an easier run toward the finals and can make it into the six. Newcastle's season has come to a halt and they may be without Kade Snowden for some weeks as a result of the shoulder charge. I hope the judiciary doesn't go too hard on him as there was no malice in the hit. I thought he was hard done by in being sent off when we have seen many similar incidents this season where there was no send off. 

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Raiders v Sea Eagles at Canberra Stadium

It has been a big week for Canberra with Andrew Dunemann taking over as interim head coach. The Raiders showed some nice resolve and fight but didn't take their opportunities when they were presented. I thought the Raiders were a lot closer to winning the football game than they would have a few weeks ago but they were never able to get to within that six point margin to make Manly nervous. Anthony Milford was brilliant in the halves. He was classy, creative and extremely tough but poor execution from the Raiders eased pressure and the class of Kieran Foran and Daly Cherry-Evans shone through. Manly were given four opportunities to score in the first half and took all four of them. The Sea Eagles were missing a number of players but in the end their ability to win was courageous. 

Storm v Eels at AAMI Park

Melbourne led 10-4 five minutes shy of half time. I was thinking Parramatta are putting up a great fight, but 60 minutes into the game the flood gates opened. The top four sides are all showing their class, their execution, ability to score points and defensive nous. Billy Slater was outstanding. He created a lot of havoc for Parramatta in the last 20 minutes and it will be interesting to see when the pressure will start to mount on Ricky Stuart. The Eels are horrible. They lack fight and leak an enormous amount of points. The time has almost come for Stuart to be put under pressure and for people to look at how much he has helped the Eels this year. This year the Eels have gone backwards from when he took over the club and next season we need to see some change.

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