Ricky's wasted our time: Sterlo

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PARRAMATTA champion Peter Sterling has called on Ricky Stuart to explain why 2013 wasn't a wasted year for the Eels under his watch.

Recognised as one of the most respected and measured voices in the game, Sterling has in the past been loathe to criticise his beloved Eels - but on Friday night the four-time premiership winner put forward his questions on behalf of every Parramatta supporter to the outgoing coach.

"There are two sides to every story and obviously Ricky is coming from his side and once you bring family into it, especially the situation with his daughter, it is very difficult to argue with that," Sterling said on Triple M.

"But he also did post-script that by saying that it was the best decision for his coaching future as well.

"As a Parramatta supporter on the other side Ricky came and there was going to be a rehabilitation job on Parramatta, which is desperately needed and this was the first (year) of a longer term process.

"So for that to finish under his watch after 12 months is extremely disappointing.

"I think they have to start again.

"Someone else has to come in now and they will have their own ideas and their own aims. That is pretty tough.

"In some ways it has been a wasted year unless Ricky can come out and tell us how it hasn't been wasted?

"There had to be a turnover in personnel and that would have happened under anybody and maybe from the outside we are not seeing improvements on the inside.

"I'd like Ricky to come out and say why it hasn't been a wasted 12 months for the club and for the players and for the fans."

Sterling also raised the issue about the supposed breakdown between Stuart and the Parramatta board.

"We keep hearing about this dysfunctional board. Are they? I don't know. I'm wondering what Ricky didn't get that he wanted under the board," Sterling asked.

"I'd like to hear that as well.

"If it is dysfunctional up top, where did that filter down in a detrimental way through to the coaching and the playing staff?"

As for the question about who should take over, Sterling said the Eels could do worse than appoint outgoing Cowboys coach Neil Henry.

"I'm a huge fan of Neil Henry. I think he could do a job there," Sterling said.

"You need a strong personality but you need someone who I think has got his best coaching years in front and I think that is Neil.

"I'm not pushing his barrow but I know his name has been mentioned.

"We need to work on the culture at the club.

"We don't necessarily need what the Parramatta culture was in the past.

"We need a culture that is a winning one.

"There are things that worried me that happened through the course of the year.

"When the players were put on notice and I think 12 were told that they wouldn't be required next year, we had one of our best young players in Jacob Loko not turn up to training and got dropped for disciplinary reasons.

"How could you even contemplate doing something wrong when players around you, their futures are being determined and decided and you come up with something like that.

"Even through to the end of the season now where apparently they were told not to have a Mad Monday, we get a guy gets behind the wheel and drives. That is a reflection of the culture.

"I like Ricky Stuart but to walk away from a contract again isn't a great lesson for the players there as to what culture we need to establish."

And as for get-out clauses in the future, like the one that allowed Stuart to escape, Sterling told Triple M: "No get-out clauses for anybody.

"When you sign a player or you sign a coach they put their signature on the bottom line because they want to be at the club and do that job. And you sign them at the club because you want them there.

"Forget these get-out clauses. If I'm a committee man there is no such thing in my vocabulary. You sign someone for a duration, they stay there and let's hope everybody is happy and the end of that and we'll do it again."

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Sreesanth guilty of spot fixing: report

Shantakumaran Sreesanth is charged with spot fixing in the IPL. Source: Gemunu Amarasinghe / AAP

TEST fast bowler Shanthakumaran Sreesanth and three other players have been found guilty of spot-fixing during the Indian Premier League by an internal probe conducted by the national cricket board, a report said on Friday.

The probe by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s anti-corruption chief Ravi Sawani, also found two other players guilty of not reporting approaches made by bookmakers, The Indian Express said.

Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila and Ankeet Chavan were found guilty on multiple accounts, including conceding a "pre-determined number of runs per over in exchange for bribes", the paper quoted the leaked report as saying.

The fourth player, Amit Singh, who played in the IPL till last year, was seen as the conduit between the cricketers and bookies, and described by Sawani as "the bad fish that spoils the entire pond".

Siddharth Trivedi and 21-year-old Harmeet Singh were absolved of spot-fixing, but were found guilty of the lesser charge of not informing officials about approaches made by bookmakers, the newspaper said.

Sawani, whose report will be placed before the BCCI's disciplinary committee, has recommended the players be banned for a period ranging from five years to life, the paper said.

"The disciplinary committee may consider my report and impose such sanctions as considered appropriate to send out a strong signal indicating the zero tolerance policy of the BCCI to any corruption in the sport that is so dear to millions of Indians and fans abroad," the paper quoted Sawani as saying in the report.

"Obviously, the anti-corruption education given to the players had no impact on the conduct. Therefore, the players deserve no leniency whatsoever."

A BCCI spokesman declined to comment on the leaked newspaper story, saying Sawani's findings would be discussed by the disciplinary committee and may be placed before the board's annual general meeting on September 29.

The four players found guilty of spot-fixing are among 39 persons who have also been charged separately by Delhi Police in the corruption scandal that rocked this year's IPL.

All four players belong to the Rajasthan Royals franchise, but Sreesanth, 30, is the only one to have played for India. He was part of the teams that won the World Twenty20 in 2007 and the World Cup in 2011.

The players were arrested in May along with scores of bookies as part of a police investigation into the spot-fixing scandal, which had caused outrage among fans in the cricket-mad nation.

BCCI chief Narayanaswami Srinivasan voluntarily stepped aside from the post in June after his son-in-law was arrested, and later released on bail, over alleged links to illegal bookmakers.

Son-in-law Gurunath Meiyappan is one of the owners of IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings, a team bought by Srinivasan's India Cements conglomerate when the popular Twenty20 league was launched in 2008.

Gambling is mostly illegal in India, but betting on cricket matches thrives through networks of underground bookies.

Spot-fixing -- in which a specific part of a game, but not the result, is fixed -- is also illegal.

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Damien Oliver makes winning return

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THE neat little bloke in the blue and white silks cut a notorious more than a familiar figure as he waited to be legged up for his first race ride in 10 months.

He shook hands with the owners, accepted a kiss from a well wisher, pulled up his shiny new boots and ignored the questionable humour being thrown over the fence.

"Hey Damien, what have you backed."

Damien Oliver, the dual-Melbourne Cup winner and consummate champion jockey, answered the hecklers and everyone else with a winner at Geelong on Friday in his first ride since he was banned last November after admitting to betting on a horse he was riding against.

In one of the most controversial cases in modern Australian racing, Oliver bet $10,000 on the horse Miss Octopussy in a race at Moonee Valley two years earlier.

Miss Octopussy won, Oliver finished unplaced on his mount, consoled himself that he at least doubled his money and forgot about it - until someone rang the racing integrity commissioner Sal Perna during the last spring carnival and told him about it.

Despite being dumped from rides in the Cox Plate and the Melbourne Cup, Oliver landed three Group One winners last spring, including Happy Trails in the Emirates Stakes on the last day of the Flemington carnival.

Two days later Oliver admitted to the bet and was duly disqualified for eight months and suspended for a further two, a penalty that sparked as much debate as the crime.

Many believed the ban and the timing of Oliver's plea to be contrived, part of an unseemly deal between him and the stewards. A further investigation by the racing commissioner said it wasn't.

Oliver began riding trackwork two months ago and at Geelong resumed race riding in much the same way as he had left it.

His comeback mount Lion Of Belfort started favourite at $1.40 and Oliver hardly moved in the saddle scoring by four lengths.

"I'm just happy to back, obviously," Oliver said.

"I'm coming off a decent break, but I'm ready."

Oliver's chose the Geelong meeting for his comeback rather than make a grand return at Moonee Valley a day later.

"I'm not into show business," he said.

A jockey whose keenness for a dollar is obvious, Oliver might revise that view if he can get himself onto a chance in one of the big spring races.

One such possibility comes up at Moonee Valley where he will be back aboard Happy Trails in the Dato Tan Chin Nam Stakes, a race the horse won last year before Oliver partnered him to victory in the Emirates Stakes.

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Wallabies are sport's Labor Party

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IT'S been hard to know who has a worse run over the past few years: the Australian rugby team or the Australian Labor Party. Infighting, scandal, leadership changes, public apathy and a horror 2013 campaign that saw humiliation unfold last Saturday.

And Labor has been pretty bad too.

So with Wallaby fans desperately crying out for solutions, a plan of radical ideas is required to rescue Australian rugby. 

There was only one man for the job, so here is Jaymes Diaz's six-point plan to stop the boatload of losses*.

(*Disclaimer: Jaymes Diaz was unable to be found, so Iain Payten stepped in.)

1. Turn back the Boks (and the Kiwis).

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Defence was once the cornerstone of Wallaby world dominance, and if not that, it was at least a red-brick footing of competitiveness. In recent times, the Wallaby defence has had all the solidity of balsa wood – averaging almost 32 points per Test – so plugging the leaks has to be a major priority.

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The solution for Ewen McKenzie lies in a raid of the northern hemisphere, where two of his old colleagues now ply their craft.

McKenzie needs a specialist defence coach, and he should do all he can to poach Les Kiss back from Ireland. Kiss was McKenzie's defence specialist at NSW from 2004, where the Waratahs averaged less than 16 points a game in the three years they made finals (2005, 08) and a semi-final (2006). 

The Wallabies have a defence coach in Nick Scrivener, but his is a makeshift role. Scrivener was the skills coach under Robbie Deans.

The sticking point is Kiss just signed a new three-year deal with the IRFU, but what's a contract these days? Am I right Ricky?

If Kiss can't be poached, McKenzie should yank Matt Taylor back from Scotland. Taylor was the defence guru who got Queensland down from 28 points a match to less than 18 points. The Reds won the title in 2011, holding the Crusaders to just 13 points in the final.

2. More 457 visas for skilled migration to rugby

Signing backs from rugby league is fine, and there've been a few good-uns. That Israel Folau shows potential with his three touches a game.

But if there is to be recruiting of leaguies in the future, how about looking to target an area in need – the forwards?

Australia need far more hard men willing to mix it up on the aggression front with the Springboks and All Blacks. The Wallabies are suffering from mongrel deficit. 

Every NRL pack is stocked full of mongrels. Blokes who not only love belting ball-runners, but know little else. Blokes who know their role is to bring the muscle and patrol the advantage line, ejecting people with prejudice.

It's an open secret rivals view Australia as soft at the contact, but put Nate Myles and Anthony Watmough in the backrow and enjoy the show. Yes, league forwards may take time to learn the set-pieces and the breakdown nuance, but stuff nuance. Dominant hits trump nuance.

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It might not be that far off, actually. Michael Cheika talked about wanting a Burgess brother in his pack, and he seriously eyed off a Roosters prop.

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3. More factional brawling

Otherwise known as "more biff". The Wallabies can come across as vulnerable to being pushed around even.

There is no better signal to a Springbok pack, for example, that you are not soft than a bit of a blue. Dan Vickerman used to love sparking them, and Nathan Sharpe deliberately started pushing and shoving over precisely nothing in Perth last year.  It was all tactical, and he conned hothead Eben Etzebeth into headbutting him.

Punches are rare because one will get you binned these days, but the value of an old-fashioned handbag session can sometimes be worth the risk to ignite passions, connect a team and tell a rival you won't be bullied.

4. Immediate policy backflip

It'd be great if the Wallabies' run-run-run strategy won games. Right now, it doesn't and the sooner Australia lets go of a supposed "Wallabies style", the sooner it can get back in the business of winning.

The All Blacks and Springboks are privately delighted Australia tries to attack doggedly from their half all game, lining up for defenders like bad-guy fodder in a ninja movie. The Kiwis and Boks hoist endless highballs and long kicks, and back themselves to force turnovers or penalties in the Wallaby half. Then they pounce. 

So if you can't beat them, hurry up and join them. The Wallabies need to mirror those tactics, with a focus on using pressure, not pizazz, to score points and win. 

Benevolent Kiwi guru Graham Henry reckons it's not wise, saying yesterday: ""I don't think you are going to win games by playing chess-board rugby and kicking the balls in the air and chasing it. That's not the way Australians play, and they haven't got the forward pack that can give you that sort of dominance."

Thanks Graham. Attention Wallabies, here's the new gameplan: play chess-board rugby, kick the balls in the air and chase it.

Defend, contest, defend, scrap and defend some more, and when the ball is won in the opposition half, then have a crack.

It might not meet head office's desire to entertain the masses, but seriously ARU, if you think the last three weeks qualifies as entertainment, I have a bridge to sell 

you. It can't get any worse.

5. Pick and stick in key seat

Decide on the best no.10, and keep voting for him. If in doubt, lean towards a candidate who can tackle and wasn't also a project player in the last World Cup cycle.

6. Control the front bench

Or, as it is called in rugby, the front row. It is ludicrous – and quite clearly a factor in Australia's ongoing scrummaging woes – that Wallabies props continue to swap sides more often a nervous independent. Ben Alexander plays mostly loosehead for the Brumbies but then becomes tighthead for the Wallabies. James Slipper is mostly no.3 for the Reds but then no.1 for Australia. Sekope Kepu plays both sides within weeks, and so does Scott Sio.

Here's a quick thought: can someone please just play tighthead all year and get damn good at it? Is that so crazy? Clearly New Zealand and South Africa don't think so. 

Yes, Super Rugby coaches have different ideas from Wallabies selectors but take a look at the next crumbling scrum (any second now) and try arguing with a straight face that it's all working out well. It's not. Top-down control is required.

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Journalists refuse to write 'Redskins'

The Washington helmet emblazoned with the controversial Redskins logo. Source: AP

WITH the NFL season officially underway, distractions off the field have already begun with Washington's controversial nickname - the Redskins - causing a stir.

The team's moniker and logo have long been accused of being racist, for obvious reasons, but no previous attempts have succeeded in getting them changed.

However the issue has resurfaced this week, with respected American football writer Peter King announcing that he will no longer use the word in his stories.

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King writes for Sports Illustrated's spinoff site MMQB – Monday Morning Quarterback – and has decided that he can avoid the issue entirely by simply omitting 'Redskins' from his writing.

"I can do my job without using it, and I will," wrote King in his MMQB column. "My 2,400-word story on Washington offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan and his unique approach to the read-option Thursday proved you can write about the team (insightfully, I hope) and not make a big deal about not using the nickname."

Washington's owner Dan Snyder is famously bullish about keeping the name, insisting that it is now part of the team's history and that it is honorific of the Native American fighting spirit.

Earlier this year Snyder was quoted by USA Today as saying: "We'll never change the name. It's that simple. NEVER – you can use caps."

The standoff is reminiscent of the 'N****r' Brown dispute, with the rugby league legend of the same name being honoured with a stand at Toowoomba Sports Ground, where he played his club football.

After much campaigning against the use of 'N****r' in the stand's name, it was agreed ES Brown's nickname would no longer be used at the ground when the stand was demolished in 2008.

No such resolution is on the horizon in Washington, and despite King's position, and the multiple protests and petitions the team have faced in recent years, opinion polls tend to support owner Snyder – one conducted in 2004 by the University of Pennsylvania found 91% of American Indians found the name acceptable.

But for King it doesn't matter whether only some people are offended, as he feels he can easily appease those who are offended with a small edit.

"Obviously, the team feels it isn't a slur, and there are several prominent Native American leaders who agree," wrote King.

"(But) some people, and some Native American organizations – such as the highly respected American Indian Movement – think the nickname is a slur."

One of King's fellow writers at MMQB, Robert Klemko, championed his colleague's stance and added that the whole website is joining the cause.

"I know that our site, we've talked about it, and we're not going to use Redskins in our writing," Klemko said on CBS Sports Radio.

"We're going to say 'Washington football team', and it's not something we're going to publicize or write about. We're just not going to do it."

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Johnson urges Lewis: Come clean

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BEN Johnson has urged long-time rival Carl Lewis to "come clean" and admit to the use of performance enhancing drugs and clear his conscience.

Lewis tested positive three times to banned stimulants during his decorated athletics career – highlighted by five sprinting and four long jump Olympic gold medals -  but was cleared by the US Olympic Association.

He tested positive at the 1988 US Olympic trials. Two months later he was awarded the gold medal in the 100m at Seoul after the race winner, Johnson, was banned for testing positive to the anabolic steroid stanozolol.

Johnson, now an anti-drugs crusader, is in Australia advocating that the International Olympic Committee better fund the World Anti Doping Authority. And he took aim at his old rival, Lewis, suggesting "he is not a man" unless he confessed to drug use.

"We know several times before the Olympic Games he tested positive," Johnson told foxsports.com.au. 

"And for him preaching the word that he's clean and working with kids, I challenge him to come on this campaign, tell the truth, tell the world that he has used performance enhancing drugs.

"He would be ashamed but he would be a man to come forward and we can work together. If he can't come face to face we know what he is. He is not a man."

Lewis conceded in an interview in 2003 that he tested positive to three banned stimulants but claimed "the climate was different then."

Johnson, a Canadian, said Lewis' nationality was the reason he retained his two gold medals from the Seoul Olympics. 

"(He) Tested positive several times but he's been protected," Johnson said. "Because he's American.

"I have a clear conscience. For me that is number one. He has to live with that conscience and that conscience is a lie and he knows that."

Despite their differences, Johnson is adamant Lewis should accept the offer to join him on his campaign. But he remains sceptical that that would ever eventuate.

"I am not afraid of Carl," Johnson said. "He is not going to come forward because he is not a man."

Johnson, 51, believes drugs in sport are much "worse" today than when he was competing.

But will professional sports as an entity ever be clean?

"I can't promise it will ever be clean - I am just trying to do my part," he said. 

"I am trying to change a young generation to not go through what I went through. I came through the fire and moving on with my life doing something positive to society. At no time at all during my career I was a danger to the public at all. Criminals get a few years and I get a lifetime ban because I broke the rules of track and field."

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Forget the smiles, we're hurting: JOC

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JAMES O'Connor has jumped on critics who say the current Wallabies aren't hurting enough after Test losses because TV cameras zero in on them talking to opponents on-field after full-time.

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"Gutted. That's how I feel. You are never ready for a Test loss and it's not something you enjoy at all," O'Connor stressed in Perth on Thursday night.

"After I've played my guts out for 80 minutes I'm still going to show sportsmanship and congratulate an opponent. Cameras don't see how we are hurting in the dressing room or how we'd go out and play again straight away to fix it."

O'Connor was giving a raw picture that five defeats in six Tests this season and conceding 14 tries in three big losses in a row at home is stinging deeply.

The homeless winger could finalise a 2014 deal to return to Western Force as early as next week but has shut out the distraction to devote himself to ending the Wallabies losing pain.

Winning back the Perth rugby faithful who were split over his 2011 exit from the club can come as early as a commanding performance in an overdue Wallabies victory over Argentina at Patersons Stadium on Saturday night.

The two-week break after this Test before the Wallabies play South Africa in Cape Town on September 28 shapes as the window for decision time.

"I don't want to put a time frame on things so people get disappointed. Next week is a timeout and when I can evaluate things," O'Connor said.

"If all goes well we could get it done there. As far as I know it's smooth sailing."

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O'Connor said he would not be speaking to Force coach Michael Foley or chief executive Mark Sinderberry while in Perth this week. A big European rugby offer and even a chat with a Sydney NRL club, likely the Bulldogs, have been the domain of manager David Shand. They are red herrings.

"That's not a priority right now. Winning this Test for the Wallabies is because we have not reached anywhere near our peak as a team," O'Connor said.

O'Connor said the shock axing of halfback and captain Will Genia this week had re-emphasised the strong message coach Ewen McKenzie had delivered to the squad when he first came into the job.

"Right from the start, Ewen said no one's a gimme. You have to perform," O'Connor said.

"Willy is one of the most professional players around. He was running the Argentinian formation we are expecting against us at training so he will always be putting in for the team."

Argentinian coaching consultant Sir Graham Henry, the 2011 World Cup-winning All Blacks coach, said the Wallabies had to be true to the Australian style.

He said it wasn't in the Australian make-up to play a purely forward-orientated game and playing to their attacking strengths would always be the best path.

Recalled prop Ben Alexander said new skipper Ben Mowen had stepped up at training this week.

"His tactical understanding and communication with referees, in terms of understanding the different personalities, is as good as I've played under," Alexander said.

"The big thing is he is getting us to connect in breaks in play so we are all on the same page with one big message, not having little chats amongst a couple of players."

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Dropping Genia: case for and against

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WILL Genia is regarded by many as the world's best halfback but he's been dropped for the Wallabies clash with Argentina in Perth on Saturday night.

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His demotion to the Wallabies bench for Saturday night's clash against Argentina in Perth - with Brumbies No.9 Nic White promoted to the run-on side - has sparked plenty of reaction.

Is it the right call? We look at the case for and against dropping Will Genia.

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Why dropping Will Genia could be the right call

Former Wallabies skipper Andrew Slack (on Fox Sports News):

"In terms of form - and I'm sure Will would be the first to admit it - if his name was Joe Blow everyone would be out saying `we've got to get rid of this halfback' because he just hasn't played to his ability in the last three games.

He was monstered a bit in the opening game against the All Blacks and I reckon there was a bit of offside there.

But I think potentially the confidence has been dented a bit and he's just not the weapon he has been and potentially he does need a rest. He's had a big season, he came back from a knee reconstruction last year, and just the last couple of weeks it's not been the real Will Genia.

The thing that (Ewen) McKenzie has up his sleeve which the Australian coach hasn't in the last year or two is a quality replacement. Nic White is a very good little No.9 and so in that sense you lose a little bit but potentially it's a risk worth taking.''

Why dropping Will Genia could be the wrong call

Daily Telegraph rugby writer Iain Payten:

DROPPING a halfback like Will Genia on form after his forwards got bashed up in Brisbane is a bit like punting your leg-spinner after a top-order batting collapse. And your leggie's name is Shane Warne.

There may be an ounce or two of logic behind Ewen McKenzie's decision to bench Genia and play Nic White against Argentina, but it still doesn't outweigh the kilograms of common sense behind sticking with the Reds no.9.

Yes, Genia has looked a fraction off his best, and has failed to produce the running form this year that best indicates when the Wallabies are humming.

There's a pretty good reason, though. The Wallabies aren't even close to humming, and a halfback playing behind a spluttering engine room is rarely going to look anything other than pedestrian.

They'll never admit it publicly but the fly-boys out in the backline know they only look good when their forwards allow it.

Space in attack flows directly from strong ball carries in the tight, and when back-peddling defences are compressing and/or fracturing.

Sniping halfback runs are never going to catch opposition defenders off guard after the bad guys have dominated the previous collision and are well set again, with teeth snarling.

Dropping Genia would make sense if McKenzie had put a broom through his forwards first, indicating a collective responsibility for the Suncorp debacle that included - but not isolated - the halfback. The message he wants to send Genia is diminished when no-one else cops a bullet for the same crime.

Even still, benching the highest quality player in your side - regardless of wavering form - is always a huge gamble for a coach. Particularly one who is 0-3 in his Test career.

In Test rugby, you need as many world class players in your side as you can muster. Genia is one of a small number in McKenzie's stable, and is arguably the only one who'd be picked in a World XV.

He has repeatedly been the saviour for both the Wallabies and Queensland in recent years, and while his form is quiet, determining a new halfback is a better bet than Genia re-finding dominance in Perth is a big call by McKenzie.

But it's not just form. Surrendering Genia's experience is a big gamble, as well.

Against the Pumas, playing with nerve and discipline are almost more important than bringing the team rolling out a sparkling A-game. The Pumas are a team who want to rattle you away from your gameplan, physically and mentally. Lose the plot and you'll lose the game. The final siren comes around very quickly against Argentina.

The Wallabies almost lost both home and away Tests to the Argies, but Nathan Sharpe's composed leadership helped the Wallabies stick rigidly to the basic gameplan and get home.

Ben Mowen is a good captain - and Nic White a very fine halfback - but you have to wonder whether there's enough old heads in the Wallaby side to spread that calm amid the helter-skelter of a clash against the Pumas. Time will tell.

The upside - and potentially McKenzie's hidden reasoning behind the move given TRC is gone anyway - will be Genia's reaction.

The Queenslander is a fiercely competitive animal, and will be burning about his very public axing. When he trots on to the field in the 55th minute, expect a response. The Pumas pack may suddenly become a secondary concern for Wallaby forwards.

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Martin fined for jailhouse gesture

Gesture ... Dustin Martin cops a suspended fine. Source: Wayne Ludbey / News Limited

RICHMOND midfielder Dustin Martin has been hit with a suspended fine for his jailhouse gesture during the Tigers' semi-final loss on Sunday.

The AFL imposed a $2000 fine but suspended the sanction for two years after the gesture raised the ire of league heavyweights during the clash against Carlton at the MCG.

AFL football operations manager Mark Evans said the Martin was fined to try and stamp out controversial on-field gestures after Michael Hibberd made a similar signal against Gold Coast in Round 12.

Collingwood's Andrew Krakouer sparked as similar outrage after gesturing in a game shortly after his return from a stint in prison.

Evans said it was a warning to players against saluting those behind bars.

"We've imposed a $2000 fine, but suspended it, given we haven't taken action on these in the past," Evans told 3AW.

"If it keeps bobbing up I think the AFL will take action."

It adds to the Tigers' sour end to the season after they were knocked out of the finals by the Blues.

Warning ... Michael Hibberd gestures against Gold Coast. Source: News Limited

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McKenzie's massive call to dump Genia

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WILL Genia, the world's No.1 halfback, has been dropped on form not for rotational reasons in the biggest selection call of Ewen McKenzie's rocky two-month ride as Wallabies coach.

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While Genia's big workload is probably a contributing factor to a minor dulling of his exceptional standards, McKenzie on Wednesday made the clear point that he was "not at the peak of his game."

McKenzie opted for feisty ACT Brumbies halfback Nic White and the spin-off that No.8 Ben Mowen will captain the Wallabies for the first time against the tricky Argentinians at Patersons Stadium in Perth on Saturday night.

"Everyone knows Will is an outstanding player but so is Nic White," McKenzie said in Perth when announcing two changes to his starting side.

"Nic has got his own brand of rugby. He's impressed me and you always need competition for places to be the elite team you want to be.

"Will is naturally disappointed (at the decision) because it is a long time since he's been in this situation. The reality is we are at the pointy end of Australian rugby.

"It's difficult to have these conversations. I've known Will a long time but he would admit he's probably not been at the peak of his game of late.

"The fact that Will has captained his country shows what high regard we hold him in. I also know how competitive he is and I've got no doubts he will train himself to a standstill to bounce back as a better player.

"We've spoken about what areas we believe he can continue to improve and evolve his game and he was receptive to going back and addressing those things."

The ramifications of Genia's demotion to the bench are massive. Out goes a 47-Test figure of composure when the Wallabies have been struggling for just that trait.

That Genia, as captain,could not execute the game plan against the Springboks in a 26-point loss last weekend must be part of McKenzie's decision although that's a harsh line in the sand when any rugby fan could name six players who had far less impact.

It unites an untried halves pairing in White and Quade Cooper against a Pumas defence known for its hustle and ability to force handling mistakes that turn into tries.

White does snipe sharply and he has a fine kicking game, not just from the ruck base but in kicking for the line from penalties. His long, raking punts can replace some of the rubbish line-kicking that the Wallabies have made do with since Kurtley Beale hacked for touch repeatedly against the British and Irish Lions.

Ben Alexander comes in at tighthead prop for Sekope Kepu for the scum battle that it always is against the Pumas.

On the bench, the clout of 125kg lock Sitaleki Timani is a shrewd addition while outside centre Tevita Kuridrani is also back in the reserves to add thrust later in the Test.

White, 23, has had three brief cameos off the bench to get a taste of Test rugby.

"It was a huge surprise when Ewen tapped me on the shoulder on Monday. It was a pretty nervous bus ride to training but it's a matter of getting on with the job I've been picked for," White enthused.

"The little taste of Test rugby I have had has just shown me that absolutely everything is a contest. You might get away with little things in Super Rugby but not at the next level."

White will literally be stepping into Genia's boots.

"Will has been very open with advice and we've spoken quite a bit. He's even given me two pairs of boots because we are the same shoe size," White smiled.

White's experiences at the Brumbies gives him a good read on Mowen's capabilities as a captain, an honour he takes on for the Wallabies in just his seventh Test.

"Ben is pretty emotional and always sets high standards. If you don't meet them he gets pretty angry," White said.

"He always wants a team to do the shitters (hard graft) early."

McKenzie said there would be tweaks to the game plan not a radical overhaul after the 38-12 crash to South Africa in Brisbane last weekend.

"Australian rugby is renowned for smart, attractive and running rugby and there is a continued determination from the coaching staff and players to play with ambition and flair. We aren't moving away from this philosophy," McKenzie said.

"Within this framework though we've worked hard during the week to provide the team with further clarity on certain areas to ensure we are making smarter decisions in different parts of the field."

WALLABIES TEAM TO PLAY ARGENTINA

1 James Slipper
2 Stephen Moore
3 Ben Alexander
4 Rob Simmons
5 Kane Douglas
6 Scott Fardy
7 Michael Hooper
8 Ben Mowen (c)
9 Nic White
10 Quade Cooper
11 Nick Cummins
12 Christian Leali'ifano
13 Adam Ashley-Cooper (vc),
14 James O'Connor
15 Israel Folau

Replacements: Saia Fainga'a, Scott Sio, Sekope Kepu, Sitaleki Timani, Ben McCalman, Will Genia, Matt Toomua, Tevita Kuridrani

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Trapattoni quits as Ireland manager

Giovanni Trapattoni has quit as Ireland manager. Source: Matthew Horwood / Getty Images

REPUBLIC of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has left his post by mutual consent, the Football Association of Ireland confirmed Wednesday.

Tuesday's 1-0 loss away to Austria all but extinguished the Republic's hopes of qualifying for next year's World Cup finals in Brazil 2014 and that led the FAI to part company with veteran Italian manager Trapattoni and his assistant, Marco Tardelli.

"I want to thank everyone in Ireland who has given us their support during our time here which has always meant a lot to us," the 74-year-old Trapattoni said in a FAI statement.

"We leave this country with emotion because we understand the Irish supporters who have a well-deserved international reputation and they have our utmost respect."

He added: "I would like to thank (FAI chief executive) John Delaney, (president) Paddy McCaul, (honorary secretary) Michael Cody and the FAI board for their support and friendship over the last five-and-a-half years.

"I would also want to thank all FAI staff members, including the backroom team and the players, who have been great to work with during the last three campaigns.

"I wish them well in the future and hope that the job we have done leaves everything in a good place for my successor to take over," he added after the defeat by Australia left the Republic with only a slim mathematical chance of overhauling Sweden to take second place in European zone World Cup qualifying Group C.

Delaney said: "We thank Giovanni Trapattoni, Marco Tardelli and Franco Rossi for the last five-and-a half-years during which we qualified for our first major tournament in 10 years (Euro 2012) and were close to qualification for 2010 World Cup in South Africa after the play-off in France.

"This particular World Cup campaign has been disappointing, but Giovanni leaves us with a group of good young players which should form the basis of the squad that the new manager will use for the European Championships in France 2016 when 24 teams qualify."

Former Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill, himself an ex-Northern Ireland international, was installed by several bookmakers as the favourite to replace Trapattoni, with the FAI board due to meet in due course to consider their choice to succeed the Italian.

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I'm feeling pretty good: Ricciardo

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IT'S been a quiet week, not much going on really, had a bit of time to myself, signed for Red Bull Racing, did some training, finished seventh in the Italian Grand Prix nothing special. You know, the usual.

OK, some of that isn't entirely true: the last few days have been incredibly hectic – but in a nice way.

Everyone's very curious to know how I'm feeling right now. It's exciting for me, but judging from the number of texts, calls, interviews and well-wishers I'm getting the impression that there's plenty of people prepared to be excited on my behalf as well. That's fairly weird.

But for the record, I'm feeling pretty good.

For anyone wondering if the deal has been done for ages, I can say categorically that it hasn't – or if it has, nobody told me.

I found out last Wednesday. I was working in the simulator at Milton Keynes, putting the Toro Rosso through its paces for Monza. Christian called and asked if I could pop up to his office for a couple of minutes and when I did he gave me the news. It was all pretty relaxed.

Obviously there's been a lot of positive talk and a huge volume of rumours in the last two months. You hear those – you can't not – but I wasn't going to get excited until I heard it from Christian or Doctor Marko.

Now it's done, I think the attention and the pressure will fade way. Getting back in the race car on Friday in Monza, knowing  my future is sorted out was a relief and a comfort and I could get on with pushing the Toro Rosso to its limits around Monza and ensuring we have a strong end to the season.

From now on,  I'll be more relaxed – not too relaxed – and able to focus 110 per cent what I've got to do in the remaining seven races to get the most of the car.

My crew at Toro Rosso have congratulated me – but equally all of them have come up at various times and told me not to forget about them just yet.

There's no way that's going to happen. My motivation to finish the season strongly could not have been higher anyway, but knowing I won't be with them next year just adds another dimension to that. I'm going to scrap for every inch.

I know how happy everyone here is when JEV or I score points, and I want to give them a lot more before I go.

After all the fuss over my 2014 move, I'm glad that Monza was a positive weekend for me: finishing seventh matches my best result of the year up til then, which was back in China.

We knew from the Belgian Grand Prix two weeks ago that we had found some encouraging pace in the car. In Spa, we wasted it by getting our qualifying strategy wrong, but in Italy, it came good.

Sure, I could maybe have qualified one place higher, because I did make a tiny mistake on my quick lap, but I was pleased with seventh on the grid.

In the race, I had to be really disciplined, because we knew we had to play the car's strength which was its good top speed. It meant that while we were really quick down the straights, I had very little aero downforce so the cars behind could close up every time we got to the middle section, the one with the slower corners.

So it was a very tactical race and there was quite a train behind me by the end, but I kept it together and was happy to see the flag.

We need to build on this now, because there's just seven races left. They're all going to come really quickly and involve a lot of travelling, starting with the night race in Singapore. It's about the nearest I'll get to Perth for a while!

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JWH found guilty at judiciary

JWH found guilty for this hit on Chris McQueen. Source: Matt King / Getty Images

SYDNEY Roosters enforcer Jared Waerea-Hargreaves has been rubbed out of an NRL semi-final by the NRL judiciary.

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Waerea-Hargreaves was found guilty last night of dangerous contact and will miss Saturday night's big match against Manly at Allianz Stadium.

"I'm very disappointed with the result," Waerea-Hargreaves said after a 70 minute hearing.

"I will look forward to the future, moving on and staying positive."

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Hargreaves was charged with a grade one dangerous contact after a raised forearm on South Sydney's Chris McQueen last Friday night. He pleaded not guilty.

It is expected Luke O'Donnell or Martin Kennedy will start for Waerea-Hargreaves against the Sea Eagles.

Panel members Sean Garlick, Chris McKenna and Paul Whatuira took just eight minutes to reach their verdict.

Waerea-Hargreaves argued the hit wasn't careless and that he raised his arm to brace for impact.

"I had bugger-all time to think about what I was doing. I instantly braced for contact,'' he told the panel.

"I know I made contact with the upper chest, collarbone and lower neck area.

''There was absolutely no intent or malice. I used a 'bumper' to protect myself when carrying the ball. There was no closed fist and no thrusting of my forearm.

''It was an instintive thing. I put my hand up as I do with most of my carries.''

NRL counsel Peter Kite: You raised your arm?

JWH: Slightly.

Kite: You raised it above your shoulder?

JWH: To brace for impact.

Kite: I suggest to you your forearm made contact with the jaw and neck.

JWH: No, not the jaw.

Kite said the tacke could have left McQueen with a broken jaw or larynx problems.

''You can't use your forearm as a weapon,'' Kite stressed.

Waerea-Hargreaves' counsel, James McLeod, made a long and ultimately unsuccessful attempt to have his client exonerated.

''He doesn't use the arm illegally and he doesn't use the arm for foul play,'' McLeod said.

''Above all it isn't careless. He uses it (His arm) to brace for impact and as a barrier.''

Fearing a suspension, Roosters players spoke on Monday about potentially losing Waerea-Hargreaves.

"If that's the way it goes, obviously he's a massive loss," said Roosters centre Michael Jennings.

"He's our go-forward and everything he does off the ball is crucial for us.

"So it is going to be disappointing if we lose Jazza, he's going to be a massive loss."

Roosters centre Shaun Kenny-Dowall added: "He's a big part of our team and we'll be very sad to see him miss a game.

"He's played so well for us all year and I'd hate to see him miss out on the finals."

Manly coach Geoff Toovey said suspensions happen throughout a season.

''Plenty of players have missed out on finals and semi-finals because if indiscretions,'' said Toovey.

''He's be a loss, a marquee player like him but they've got plenty of depth at the Roosters and I'm sure they will replace him with a quality player.''

Sea Eagles back Glenn Stewart added: ''It will certainly take a bit out of their side but, in saying that, they have a few other big blokes they bring straight into his spot.''

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Widdop named on extended bench

Gareth Widdop has been named on an extended bench for Melbourne Storm. Source: Scott Barbour / Getty Images

MELBOURNE have listed injured Brett Finch at five-eighth and named England international Gareth Widdop on an extended bench for their NRL qualifying final against South Sydney on Friday night.

Widdop played his first match since dislocating his hip in June at the weekend in the secondary Queensland Cup.

With concerns over Widdop's match fitness, veteran Finch will get the nod at No.6 if he recovers from a damaged sternoclavicular joint, though coach Craig Bellamy won't make a final decision till later in the week.

Finch suffered the injury in the Storm's 23-22 final round win over Gold Coast on Saturday and, although very sore, he has been cleared of any fracture.

"Finchy has improved a lot in the last 48 hours and has had a cortisone injection,'' said Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy on Tuesday.

"We'll just see how he goes and see how Gaz (Widdop) goes.

"We probably won't make the decision until Thursday or Friday.''

Souths named the side side that started against the Roosters last week and forward Jason Clark was listed on the bench despite being helped off the field at training on Tuesday.

Manly have recalled several players, including impact forward Anthony Watmough and star fullback Brett Stewart for Saturday's clash with minor premiers Sydney Roosters.

NSW Origin and Kangaroos star Watmough has missed the past few weeks after aggravating an existing knee complaint in the round 23 loss to South Sydney.

"A couple of weeks off has really freshened me up and I'm really hungry and ready to go,'' Watmough said.

Prop Brenton Lawrence also returns to the side, along with winger Jorge Taufua, who is back after serving a two-match ban.

The Roosters welcome back winger Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and backrower Mitchell Aubusson into their starting lineup and forward Luke O'Donnell onto an extended bench.

They will be forced into one change after listing Jared Waerea-Hargreaves to start, prior to him getting a one-game ban after being found guilty of a dangerous contact charge on Tuesday.

North Queensland co-captain and prop Matt Scott is set to make an earlier than expected return in Saturday's match against the Sharks after breaking his middle figure against that club in round 25.

The Queensland and Australia front rower has pushed Scott Bolton back to the bench, in the only change to the team that defeated Wests Tigers 50-22.

The Cowboys will be searching for a club record-equalling seventh straight win.

Skipper Paul Gallen, five-eighth Todd Carney and backrowers Wade Graham, Jayson Bukuya and Anthony Tupou return for the Sharks.

The Canterbury Bulldogs have named fullback Ben Barba on the bench for a second straight week following his return from an ankle injury.

The Bulldogs and Newcastle have each named an unchanged starting lineup for their clash.

South Sydney Rabbitohs v Melbourne Storm, ANZ Stadium, 7.45pm (EST) Friday

Rabbitohs: Greg Inglis, Nathan Merritt, Bryson Goodwin, Dylan Walker, Dylan Farrell, John Sutton, Adam Reynolds, Thomas Burgess, Issac Luke, Roy Asotasi, Chris McQueen, Ben Te'o, Sam Burgess. Interchange: Luke Keary, Jeff Lima, Jason Clark, George Burgess

Storm: Greg Inglis, Nathan Merritt, Bryson Goodwin, Dylan Walker, Dylan Farrell, John Sutton, Adam Reynolds, Thomas Burgess, Issac Luke, Roy Asotasi, Chris McQueen, Ben Te'o, Sam Burgess. Interchange: Luke Keary, Jeff Lima, Jason Clark, George Burgess

Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys, Allianz Stadium, 4pm (EST) Saturday

Sharks: Michael Gordon, Sosaia Feki, Ben Pomeroy, Jonathan Wright, Beau Ryan, Todd Carney, Jeff Robson, Andrew Fifita, John Morris, Sam Tagataese, Luke Lewis, Wade Graham, Paul Gallen. Interchange: Isaac De Gois, Chris Heighington, Jayson Bukuya, Anthony Tupou, Bryce Gibbs, Ben Ross

Cowboys: Matthew Bowen, Wayne Ulugia, Brent Tate, Kane Linnett, Antonio Winterstein, Johnathan Thurston (c), Robert Lui, Matthew Scott (c), Rory Kostjasyn, James Tamou, Gavin Cooper, Glenn Hall, Joel Riethmuller. Interchange: Jayden Hodges, Tariq Sims, Scott Bolton, Jason Taumalolo, Ashton Sims (one to be omitted).

Sydney Roosters v Manly Sea Eagles, Allianz Stadium, 7pm (EST) Saturday

Roosters: Anthony Minichiello, Daniel Tupou, Michael Jennings, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, James Maloney, Mitchell Pearce, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Jake Friend, Sam Moa, Mitchell Aubusson, Sonny Bill Williams, Frank-Paul Nuuausala. Interchange: Daniel Mortimer, Aidan Guerra, Isaac Liu, Dylan Napa, Luke O'Donnell, Martin Kennedy

Sea Eagles: Brett Stewart, Jorge Taufua, Jamie Lyon, Steve Matai, David Williams, Kieran Foran, Daly Cherry-Evans, Brenton Lawrence, Matt Ballin, Brent Kite, Anthony Watmough, Justin Horo, Glenn Stewart. Interchange: Richie Fa'aoso, Tom Symonds, David Gower, George Rose, James Hasson

Canterbury Bulldogs v Newcastle Knights, ANZ Stadium, 4pm (EST) Sunday

Bulldogs: Josh Morris, Mitch Brown, Krisnan Inu, Timoteo Lafai, Sam Perrett, Josh Reynolds, Trent Hodkinson, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis, James Graham, Tony Williams, Josh Jackson, Dale Finucane. Interchange: Dene Halatau, Sam Kasiano, Tim Browne, Ben Barba

Knights: Darius Boyd, James McManus, Joey Leilua, Dane Gagai, Akuila Uate, Jarrod Mullen, Tyrone Roberts, David Fa'alogo, Danny Buderus, Willie Mason, Robbie Rochow, Beau Scott, Jeremy Smith. Interchange: Matt Hilder, Chris Houston, Neville Costigan, Alex McKinnon

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MVP Awards: Selwood's double win

Chance ... Gary Ablett is in line for his fifth AFL MVP. Source: Wayne Ludbey / News Limited

GOLD Coast champion Gary Ablett has won a record fifth Leigh Matthews Trophy

Ablett - the favourite for the Brownlow Medal - broke his own record with back-to-back honours after his 2012 win on top his 2007, 2008 and 2009 triumphs.

The Suns captain gained 1479 votes to romp home ahead of Geelong captain Joel Selwood and Hawthorn's Coleman Medalist Jarryd Roughead.

Collingwood's Scott Pendlebury, Sydney co-captain Kieran Jack and Western Bulldogs midfielder Ryan Griffen rounded out the top six.

LEIGH MATTHEWS TROPHY
Gary Ablett (GCS) 1479 votes
Joel Selwood (GEE) 475
Jarryd Roughead (HAW) 378
Scott Pendlebury (COL) 321
Kieren Jack (SYD) 201
Ryan Griffen (WB) 177
Daniel Hannebery (SYD) 174
Patrick Dangerfield (ADE) 172
Dane Swan (COL) 137
Nathan Fyfe (FRE) 118

While he missed out on the main award, it was a big night for Selwood after he captured the AFL's most courageous player and best captain awards.

The champion Cat gained 234 votes to easily win ahead of Sydney Swans young gun Daniel Hannebery and Adelaide best and fairest winner Rory Sloane.

AFL MOST COURAGEOUS
Joel Selwood (GEE) 234 votes
Daniel Hannebery (SYD) 153
Rory Sloane (ADE) 74
Callan Ward (GWS) 55
Kade Simpson (CAR) 54

Selwood was back on stage shortly after to accept the best captain award.

He was voted in ahead of Suns captain Gary Ablett and Bombers' Brownlow Medalist Jobe Watson.

AFL BEST CAPTAIN
Joel Selwood (GEE) 172 votes
Gary Ablett (GCS) 115
Jobe Watson (ESS) 110
Luke Hodge (HAW) 102
Travis Boak (PTA) 81

In the night's most one-sided result, Gold Coast Suns young gun Jaeger O'Meara was awarded the best first year player award.

Having already won the AFL's Rising Star award, O'Meara captured an amazing 533 votes to win ahead of Power hard nut Ollie Wines and Crows budding superstar Brad Crouch.

Surprisingly, Collingwood's Sam Dwyer and Swan defender Dane Rampe were next best.

AFL BEST FIRST YEAR PLAYER
Jaeger O Meara (GCS) 533 votes
Oliver Wines (PTA) 45
Brad Crouch (ADE) 37
Sam Dwyer (COL) 28
Dane Rampe (SYD) 24

The 22under22 team was the first to be announced.

The team features the best players under 22, selected by fans via social media, with Bomber Dyson Heppell elected captain and North midfielder Jack Ziebell his deputy.

Channel 7 – Saturday Night Footy was awarded the Grant Hattam Trophy for Excellence in Sports Journalism for their piece on Jeremy Cameron's life away from football.

In the third award of the night, Western Bulldogs captain Matthew Boyd was awarded the Education and Training Excellence Award.

Gary Ablett is vying for his fifth Leigh Matthews Trophy but faces stiff competition from the likes of Joel Selwood, Scott Pendlebury and Jarryd Roughead.

Leigh Matthews Trophy nominees

Adelaide – Patrick Dangerfield, Richard Douglas, Rory Sloane
Brisbane - Pearce Hanley, Matthew Leuenberger, Jack Redden
Carlton – Lachie Henderson, Chris Judd, Kade Simpson
Collingwood – Scott Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom, Dane Swan
Essendon – Jack Carlisle, Dyson Heppell, Jobe Watson
Fremantle – Ryan Crowley, Nathan Fyfe, Michael Johnson
Geelong – Corey Enright, Joel Selwood, Harry Taylor
Gold Coast – Gary Ablett Jr, Jaeger O'Meara, Rory Thompson
GWS – Jeremy Cameron, Jonathan Giles, Tom Scully
Hawthorn – Josh Gibson, Sam Mitchell, Jarryd Roughead
Melbourne – James Frawley, Colin Garland, Nathan Jones
North Melbourne – Andrew Swallow, Lindsay Thomas, Scott Thompson
Port Adelaide – Travis Boak, Justin Westhoff, Chad Wingard
Richmond – Trent Cotchin, Brett Deledio, Daniel Jackson
St Kilda – Leigh Montagna, Nick Riewoldt, Jack Steven
Sydney – Dan Hannebery, Kieren Jack, Jarrad McVeigh
West Coast – Darren Glass, Josh Kennedy, Erie Mackenzie
Western Bulldogs – Ryan Griffen, Tom Liberatore, Will Minson

Tough ... Joel Selwood is up for three awards. Source: Getty Images

The Robert Rose Most Courageous Award nominees

Adelaide – Rory Sloane
Brisbane - Joel Patfull
Carlton – Kade Simpson
Collingwood - Luke Ball
Essendon – Mark Baguley
Fremantle – Matt De Boer
Geelong – Joel Selwood
Gold Coast – David Swallow
Greater Western Sydney – Callan Ward
Hawthorn – Ben Stratton
Melbourne – Colin Garland
North Melbourne – Jack Ziebell
Port Adelaide – Jay Schulz
Richmond – Steven Morris
St Kilda – Jarryn Geary
Sydney – Daniel Hannebery
West Coast – Darren Glass
Western Bulldogs – Daniel Cross
 
Best First Year Player nominees

Adelaide – Brad Crouch
Brisbane - Sam Mayes
Carlton – Troy Menzel
Collingwood - Sam Dwyer
Essendon - Nick Kommer
Fremantle – Jack Hannath
Geelong – Jackson Thurlow
Gold Coast – Jaeger O'Meara
GWS – Lachie Whitfield
Hawthorn – Jed Anderson
Melbourne – Matt Jones
North Melbourne – Taylor Garner
Port Adelaide – Oliver Wines
Richmond - Nick Vlastuin
St Kilda – Nathan Wright
Sydney - Dane Rampe
West Coast – Adam Carter
Western Bulldogs – Brett Goodes

Talent ... Brad Crouch is nominated for the best first year player. Source: News Limited

Best Captain nominees

Adelaide – Nathan Van Berlo
Brisbane – Jed Adcock, Jonathon Brown
Carlton – Marc Murphy
Collingwood - Nick Maxwell
Essendon - Jobe Watson
Fremantle – Matthew Pavlich
Geelong – Joel Selwood
Gold Coast – Gary Ablett Jr
Greater Western Sydney – Callan Ward, Phil Davis
Hawthorn – Luke Hodge
Melbourne – Jack Trengove, Jack Grimes
North Melbourne – Andrew Swallow
Port Adelaide – Travis Boak
Richmond - Trent Cotchin
St Kilda – Nick Riewoldt
Sydney – Kieren Jack, Jarrad McVeigh
West Coast – Darren Glass
Western Bulldogs – Matthew Boyd

22UNDER22
 
22under22 is a new concept for 2013 and is comprised of the best 22 players aged 22 and under for the premiership season. The AFL Players' Board nominate 40 players in position and fans have the responsibility to select the final team via social media.
 
The 2013 22under22 team will be announced at the MVP Awards and those selected in the side will receive a 22under22 New Era hat in a perspex case.
 
The AFL Players' Association Board has chosen a retrospective team for the inaugural year and the captain, Patrick Dangerfield, will present a hat to this years captain at the MVP Awards.
 
22UNDER22 SQUAD
 
Ruck: Mark Blicavs, Tom Nicholls
 
Defenders: Rory Thompson, Daniel Talia, Jake Carlisle, Steele Sidebottom, Paul Seedsman, Jordan Roughead, Trent McKenzie, Aaron Mullett, Brandon Ellis, Dylan Roberton, Clancee Pearce, Mitch Golby.
 
Midfielders: Dan Hannebury, Jaeger O'Meara, Dyson Heppell, Nat Fyfe, Luke Parker, Ollie Wines, Dion Prestia, Ben Cunnington, Tom Liberatore, Jack Ziebell, Jack Redden, Adam Treloar, Mitch Duncan, Tom Mitchell.
 
Forwards: Luke Dahlhaus, Allen Christensen, Jack Darling, Dustin Martin, Steven Motlop, Luke Breust, Jeremy Cameron, Jack Gunston, Aaron Black, Michael Walters, Jamie Elliott, Chad Wingard.
 
WINNERS OF THE LEIGH MATTHEWS TROPHY FOR MOST VALUABLE PLAYER
 
2012 Gary Ablett Jr (Gold Coast)
2011 Chris Judd (Carlton)
2010 Dane Swan (Collingwood)
2009 Gary Ablett Jr (Geelong)
2008 Gary Ablett, Jr (Geelong)
2007 Gary Ablett Jr (Geelong)
2006 Chris Judd (West Coast)
2005 Ben Cousins (West Coast)
2004 Nick Riewoldt (St Kilda)
2003 Michael Voss (Brisbane)

WINNERS OF THE BEST FIRST-YEAR PLAYER AWARD
 
2012 - Jeremy Cameron (Greater Western Sydney)
2011 - Dyson Heppell (Essendon)
2010 – Michael Barlow (Fremantle)
2009 - Daniel Rich (Brisbane Lions)
2008 – Rhys Palmer (Fremantle)
 
BEST CAPTAIN AWARD WINNERS
 
2012 - Jobe Watson (Essendon)
2011 - Chris Judd (Carlton)
2010 – Brett Kirk (Sydney)
2009 – Jonathan Brown (Brisbane)
2008 – Tom Harley (Geelong)

WINNERS OF THE ROBERT ROSE MOST COURAGEOUS PLAYER AWARD
 
2012 - Beau Waters (West Coast) / Joel Selwood (Geelong)
2011 - Jonathon Brown (Brisbane)
2010 - Luke Hodge (Hawthorn)
2009 – Joel Selwood (Geelong)
2008 – Jonathan Brown (Brisbane Lions)

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Fifita injured in Sharks win

Sharks players celebrate a try by Sosaia Feki. Source: Stefan Postles / Getty Images

ANDREW Fifita, shortly before the break in this one, appeared on the sidelines.

3 Tries 6
David Shillington 16'	Sosaia Feki 3'
Anthony Milford 40'	Luke Lewis 23'
David Shillington 62'	Jeff Robson 52'
	Tyrone Peachey 70'
	Bryce Gibbs 73'
	Beau Ryan 77'
3 Conversions 6
Jarrod Croker 17'	Michael Gordon 4'
Jarrod Croker 40'	Michael Gordon 25'
Jarrod Croker 63'	Michael Gordon 53'
	Michael Gordon 71'
	Michael Gordon 75'
	Michael Gordon 79'
0 Penalties 1
	Michael Gordon 38'

Wearing a club baseball cap. Cue the alarm bells.

On a night where Sharks coach Shane Flanagan did everything to conserve his players bar sending them out bubble wrap, NSW Origin star Fifita still managed to put his NRL playoff hopes under a cloud after leaving the field in the 24th minute with a leg complaint.

While the Sharkies would eventually win this one 38-18, all attention will now descend upon the barnstorming 114kg forward, who left the field clutching a calf and returned shortly after dressed in his civvies.

Indeed, this was the injury that Cronulla, with their place on the top eight already secured, had tried so hard to prevent.

Apart from having skipper Paul Gallen suspended, the Sharks also rested Todd Carney, Wade Graham, Jason Bukuya and Anthony Tupou -- all of whom will be back for week one of the playoffs.

But as for Fifita, well, who knows?

Call it that sort of night. A game where apart from confirming Bryce Gibbs is no longer on a nudie run, gave us very little in terms of how deep the Shire Boys will progress into September.

Not only were the visitors playing without five genuine NRL starters, then six when Fifita departed, they were up against a Canberra who has sacked not one, but two NSW Origin players this year.

Without Blake Ferguson, the Raiders came into this one having already dropped five games and interim coach Andrew Dunemann claiming he had been gifted a "hand grenade". It got little better last night.

Despite trailing by only two with a tick over 10 minutes to go, the Raiders had still kicked out on the full from the kick off, kicked out on the full from a drop out and also played a man short for 10 minutes following the 51st sin binning of centre Sami Sauiluma.

In fact, among the few highlights of this, the last game of the regular season, was the fact both Raiders prop Dave Shillington and Cronulla rival Gibbs -- who had been without a try since the 2005 Grand Final -- both got of the traditional Mad Monday nudie run.

Incredibly, having gone without a four pointer all year, Shillington bagged a double while Gibbs, whose drought rivals anything ever witness by western NSW farmers, ignited celebrations of Grand Final proportions when he crossed with six minutes remaining.

Despite having their place in the top eight secured, Cronulla still played from in front after just three minutes when winger Sosaia Feki found himself on the end of a simple backline play.

From their, the visitors would eventually run in another five tries while, for the Raiders, the undisputed highlight was another sizzling four-pointer from Anthony Milford.

Only seconds from the break, skipper Terry Campese passed to halfback Sam Williams who, with Milford flying through on the inside, offered up a beautiful little pop pass to send the little No.1 away.

Sadly, for Raiders fans, it was a rare highlight.

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Ultimate NRL finals breakdown

Greg Inglis on the charge against the Storm. Source: Mark Evans / DailyTelegraph

SOUTH Sydney will have to overcome a shocking record against Melbourne if they are to resurrect their title aspirations this Friday night, with the Rabbitohs last win over the Storm in Sydney way back in 2004.

The Rabbitohs' halves pairing of Adam Reynolds and John Sutton were convincingly outplayed by the Roosters' combination of Mitchell Pearce and James Maloney in last Friday night's battle for the minor premiership - and it doesn't get any easier this week when they take on the reigning premiers and Reynolds goes head-to-head with the game's best halfback Cooper Cronk.

Melbourne are now the new outright $3.50 premiership favourites and are set to the clash at ANZ Stadium as $1.80 favourites with the TAB and the Rabbitohs at $2. The markets will be finalised Monday.

Manly's shock loss to Penrith means the fourth-placed Sea Eagles take on the Sydney Roosters on Saturday night in the double header at Allianz Stadium, while Souths back up against their nemesis.

The first match Saturday will see the Cronulla Sharks take on the Cowboys in an elimination final after Shane Flanagan's men secured fifth spot with victory against the Raiders Sunday night.

A second elimination final between the Bulldogs and the Knights will close out the first week of the finals on Sunday afternoon, with the game kicking off at 4pm at ANZ Stadium.

Teams will never tell you publicly who they would rather play but there is no doubt Souths' biggest disappointment over the weekend wouldn't have been losing to the Roosters but seeing the Sea Eagles go down to the Panthers on Sunday.

Souths have a rotten record against Melbourne, who beat them in both games this year. In 22 games overall Melbourne have won 19 and Souths just three.

In fact, Souths have only won one of their last 15 matches against Melbourne and at ANZ Stadium Souths have haven't beaten the Storm in the only three games played at that venue.

In what is shaping up as one of the best finals series in NRL history the big talking points going into week one of the finals are:

    • Sam Burgess is in strife again and could be cited Monday by the match review committee for a couple of unsavoury incidents in Friday night's loss;

    • Roosters enforcer Jared Waerea-Hargreaves is likely to cop a suspension for his elbow on Chris McQueen;

    • Injured Storm five-eighth Gareth Widdop is in line for an NRL call up after making his comeback in Queensland Cup;

    • Last year's grand finalists Canterbury are in trouble on and off the field as the Ben Barba controversy bubbles along and a final round loss to Brisbane;

    • The Sharks rested a host of big-names Sunday night against Canberra but have an injury concern for Andrew Fifita. Paul Gallen and Todd Carney will be fresh for their sudden-death game on Saturday against the Cowboys;

    • Wayne Bennett is back in finals football after Newcastle locked up seventh spot with a thumping 54-6 win over Parramatta;

    • And Cowboys fans have started a petition to get Neil Henry reinstated after the Cowboys charged into eighth spot with their sixth straight victory.

But the majority of talk over the weekend related to the Roosters' dominant win over the Rabbitohs and the question most experts were asking is if that game exposed Souths' lack of experience heading into the play-offs.

While Friday night's game was probably the best atmosphere of the season in front of a regular season record crowd the Rabbitohs were nowhere near their best and much of the finger pointing since has gone back to the performance of their halves who were clearly out-pointed by the incumbent NSW halves pairing.

Despite having the better of possession and an 11-5 penalty count in their favour, Souths' completion rates were terrible and the finishing to their sets was way below the standards they have set all season.

Coach Michael Maguire conceded their inability to build pressure and force repeat sets let them down against the Roosters and if they are going to beat Melbourne they need a much improved performance.

In the two games they have played this year Melbourne beat them 17-10 in round six at ANZ and in round 22 it was 26-8 at AAMI Park.

    ***

    FINALS WEEK ONE

    FRIDAY
    Qualifying final
    Rabbitohs v Storm
    7.45pm at ANZ Stadium

    SATURDAY
    Elimination final
    Sharks v Cowboys
    4pm at Allianz Stadium

    Qualifying final
    Roosters v Sea Eagles
    Saturday, 7pm at Allianz Stadium

    SUNDAY
    Elimination final
    Bulldogs v Knights
    Sunday, 4pm at ANZ Stadium

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Rose capacity cops interference

Trainer Chris Waller, who will saddle up Zoustar, says big fields are only acceptable when it comes to handicaps, not set-weight races. Picture: Mark Evans Source: Mark Evans / DailyTelegraph

THE likelihood of the Golden Rose featuring a whopping 18 runners for the first time has not gone down well trainers and jockeys.

The opening Group 1 of the Sydney spring will be run this Saturday - and there's sure to be plenty of "carnage" should a full field accept for the $1 million race.

Australian Turf Club boss Darren Pearce said there had always been an 18-horse limit for the Golden Rose.

Pearce said there had never been enough runners in the past to run the Golden Rose at full capacity.

Trainers and jockeys, however, believe the number is simply too big.

The Golden Rose is regarded as a "stallion-making race", and any hard-luck stories will have multi-million dollar ramifications for colts.

"We want good racing, not carnage," Zoustar's jockey Jimmy Cassidy said.

"I think it's too many. We only had 14 in the Run To The Rose the other day, and look what happened then."

Drago's jockey Peter Robl said: "We all know what the Golden Slipper is like. Good luck getting around that first corner next Saturday."

Criterion's trainer David Payne told The Daily Telegraph: "It's ridiculous. If you draw barrier 18, you might as well stay at home."

Premier trainer Chris Waller, who will saddle up Zoustar, said big fields were only acceptable when it came to handicaps, not set-weight races.

"Going from eight runners to 12 runners if fine, but going from 14 to 18, you really notice the difference," Waller said.

Chief steward Ray Murrihy. Source: DailyTelegraph

"Handicaps, sure, they're open races, but set-weight races you should be restricting it to the very best. You need a lot of luck in any race, you need luck at barrier draw, but in running you don't want people with the best horse having bad luck."

The Run To The Rose - a traditional Golden Rose lead-up race - featured half a dozen hard-luck stories because of interference a fortnight ago.

Since the race was upgraded to Group 1 status in 2009, the field sizes have been 15, 15, six and 10 last year.

The fact all 18 spots are likely to be filled has sparked the debate.

One horse likely to benefit is Cluster, who is currently 18th in an unofficial order of entry. Cluster is a $9 chance with the TAB, and a colt rival trainers genuinely fear.

ATC track boss Lindsay Murphy said there would be no problems starting 18 horses from the 1400m with the rail in the true position.

Chief steward Ray Murrihy was satisfied there would be no safety concerns.

"With three-year-olds, they've all had a number of starts, and the 1400m isn't the hustle and bustle. I'm not anticipating any dramas," Murrihy said.

"I've got more trepidation about running 16 horses in the Golden Slipper than 18 in the Golden Rose. Let's hope it's a great race. With the Victorian presence (of Prince Harada, Fast 'N' Rocking and Thermal Current), it will make it interesting."

Owners of Prince Harada are expected to pay the $50,000 late-entry fee today. Prince Harada is the $3.60 favourite ahead of fellow Victorian Fast 'N' Rocking ($4.60). Zoustar is the $7 hope, with Cassidy more than happy with the colt's first-up run.

Robl elected to stick with Drago ahead of Cluster given Drago's sectionals first-up at Warwick Farm. Drago will also go into the race three weeks between runs. James McDonald becomes the new rider of Cluster.

GOLDEN ROSE
Rosehill Gardens, Saturday

Prince Harada $3.60
Fast 'N' Rocking $4.60
Zoustar $7
Cluster, Drago $9
Dissident, Sidestep, Thermal Current $13
Eurozone, War $17
Odds: TAB Sportsbet

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NRL heavyweights looking for finals lift

HAVING been a class above for much of the season, the NRL top four are now racing the clock to rediscover their mojo ahead of a premiership tilt that appears anyone's for the taking.

The indifferent form of the competition's standout teams is highlighted by the fact the most in-form side heading into the finals is eighth-placed North Queensland - who won six on the trot to nab the last finals berth.

Perhaps it was a symptom of having little to play for over the closing rounds, when arch-rivals Sydney Roosters and South Sydney were locked into the top two and Manly and Melbourne were unable to be ousted from third and fourth.

Certainly Manly - having crushed the Storm the previous week - looked a little flat against Penrith on Sunday, the loss dropping them to fourth and a qualifying final match-up against minor premiers the Roosters.

"I think it's been a long, hard year and hopefully we'll turn up a bit better next week than we did today," Sea Eagles coach Geoff Toovey said.

Ironically the defeat may have improved the Sea Eagles' chances next week, giving them an extra day off ahead of the clash against a Roosters side which could be without prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves.

Waerea-Hargreaves is almost certain to be charged with striking for his raised forearm to Chris McQueen in Friday night's win over the Rabbitohs, which not only secured the minor premiership but also ended a worrying two-game losing streak.

"Oh look, you wouldn't concentrate on that," Toovey said of playing a Roosters side without their forward enforcer.

"They had a good win against the Rabbits and deserve to be minor premiers and that's how we have to treat them.

"They're a quality side and whilst it may take a little bit away if it does work out that way in their size in the pack, I'm sure they'll replace him with another big bopper as well."

The Rabbitohs now face a Storm side they haven't beaten in 2013 in the other qualifying final at ANZ Stadium on Friday night, with concerns still lingering over Greg Inglis' knee.

Melbourne aren't exactly setting the world on fire either however, needing golden point to beat Gold Coast at home on Saturday a week after going down 28-8 to the Sea Eagles.

The winners of the qualifying finals earn a week off and will have home city advantage in the preliminary final, but Toovey played down the importance of victory next weekend.

"No you don't have to, I don't think that's right," Toovey said of having to win week one.

"But it is of some benefit, particularly if you've got a few players carrying niggling injuries.

"But again it's not vital. It does make things a little bit more difficult but some people have the philosophy that the week off can be bad for you, so I'll tell you in a couple of weeks' time."

The Sea Eagles are expected to get Brett Stewart, Anthony Watmough, Brenton Lawrence and Jorge Taufua back after all missed the loss to the Panthers.

Newcastle sewed up seventh spot with a 54-6 hammering of Parramatta on Sunday, and will meet Canterbury in next Sunday's elimination final at ANZ Stadium.

After losing to Brisbane on Thursday night, the Bulldogs slipped to sixth after Cronulla - despite being without Todd Carney and suspended skipper Paul Gallen - climbed to fifth courtesy of their 38-18 win over Canberra in the regular season finale.

The Sharks will host the Cowboys in Saturday night's elimination final.

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