Taggart ends Heart’s unbeaten run

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NEWCASTLE Jets kept their A-League play-off hopes alive with an Adam Taggart goal in the second half handing them a vital 1-0 win over Melbourne Heart at Hunter Stadium.

Jets defender Josh Brillante played a significant role in the goal, which broke the 0-0 deadlock seven minutes into the second half.

It came after Jets skipper Ruben Zadkovich found Brillante with a diagonal ball on the right.

Brillante headed past Heart defender Aziz Behich on his way into the box before firing a pass into the path of Taggart who slammed it home from close range.

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It was Taggart's 11th goal of the season but he hasn't scored a more important one for his side.

In the wash-up, the Jets striker could have finished with two or three as Heart pushed forward from that point on desperately searching for an equaliser.

Massimo Murdocca vies with Zenon Caravella. Source: Getty Images

Taggart was one on one with Heart keeper Andrew Redmayne three times in the final 15 minutes but couldn't put any of them away.

Heart's best chance to lock things up fell to striker Iain Ramsay seconds into injury time but his snap shot went across the face of goal.

It was Hearts first loss in eight games with their last defeat coming on January 10 against Perth and it ended a five match winning streak.

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Taylor boots Crusaders past Stormers

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THE Crusaders scraped a 14-13 win over the Stormers in Christchurch to post their first win of the Super Rugby season and maintain a proud 13-year record.

A penalty to five-eighth Tom Taylor gave the Crusaders a hard-fought and relieving victory after they had trailed 13-6 going into the final 10 minutes.

The win was their 33rd in a row on home soil against South African teams since 2001. It also maintained a perfect nine-from-nine record at home against the Stormers.

Watch full video highlights from Crusaders v Stormers at MATCH CENTRE

However, this was among the toughest challenges they had faced, as the visitors effectively absorbed everything the Crusaders threw at them with staunch defence while also launching some effective counter strikes.

Each team scored one try after the scores were locked 3-3 at halftime following penalties to Taylor and Stormers counterpart Demetri Catrakilis.

A second Stormers penalty put them in front before inside centre Damian de Allende scored a blistering try from 60m out after a break and chip ahead from midfield partner Jean de Villiers.

The Crusaders, who had lacked potency in attack for much of the game, found another gear to score through debut replacement centre Kieron Fonotia in the 71st minute.

Taylor missed the wide conversion but his third penalty and some desperate late defence proved enough.

The seven-time champion Crusaders are still struggling for their best, having opened their season with losses to the Chiefs, 18-10, and Blues, 35-24.

They had an effective scrum but an unusually loose lineout and were again guilty of drifting sideways in attack and some poor handling.

The Stormers were highly effective at slowing down ruck ball or turning it over and were unlucky not to secure a second successive win after beating the visiting Hurricanes 19-18 last weekend.

CRUSADERS 14 (Kieron Fonotia try Tom Taylor 3 pens) bt STORMERS 13 (Damian de Allende try Demetri Catrakilis con 2 pens) at Christchurch Stadium. Referee: Rohan Hoffman.

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Bragging rights go to Sydney FC

Derby bragging rights go to Sydney FC. Source: Matt King / Getty Images

Sydney FC has painted the town sky blue overcoming fierce rivals Western Sydney 3-1 in a heated derby clash to keep their A-League finals hopes alive.

It was the first time Sydney had beaten the Wanderers this season and it couldn't have come at a better time, victory lifting them to fourth on the ladder with only five games remaining until the finals.

The high-stakes clash started slowly, however, but two penalties and four goals in the second half ensured the 40,285-strong crowd at Allianz Stadium got their money's worth.

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The Cove was in full voice. Source: FoxSports

Fans appeared set for a dour affair early on with both teams locked in a real arm wrestle unable to create any real chances.

For the first half-hour, all the action was in the stands with an the entire stadium in full voice providing the colour and excitement.

But the Wanderers began to fire late in the opening half with livewire winger Youssouf Hersi creating the best chance, forcing a save from gloveman Vedran Janjetovic with his long-range strike.

The away fans were there to match the Sydney FC faithful. Source: FoxSports

The game exploded in the second half with Shinji Ono getting the goal the Wanderers needed, latching onto a ball from Brendon Santalab to put the visitors ahead in the 50th minute.

Just moments later, Richard Garcia conceded a penalty taking down Hersi in the box.

Mark Bridge stepped up to the mark but Janjetovic saved the strike to send the crowd into raptures.

Celebrations continued for the Sky Blues with Matthew Jurman finding the equaliser in the 59th minute, heading home a Nikola Petkovic free kick to score his first goal for Sydney.

Garcia pounced on a misplaced backpass from defender Michael Beauchamp to score his fifth of the season and give Sydney a 2-1 lead in the 75th minute.

Things went from bad to worse for the Wanderers with Jerome Polenz conceding a penalty for a hand-ball in the box in extra time.

Ali Abbas stepped up and made no mistake to put the final nail in the coffin.

It was the first time Sydney had come from behind this season to win a match.

Allianz in full flight. Source: Getty Images

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Watt caught in rivals’ domain

ONE of Australia's biggest syndicators is expected to be questioned by stewards for registering several website addresses in the name of his rivals.

Dean Watt of Dynamic Syndications will be interviewed by Racing NSW chief steward Ray Murrihy after it emerged he had registered nine domain names, including websites in the names of two leading Sydney trainers.

Watt's son Adam allegedly created another 25 domain names, including one of a rival syndication company. At The Track visited the website yesterday, only for a link to go straight to Dynamic Syndications.

The rival syndication company had no idea the website existed. The act of registering someone else's domain name is commonly referred to as "cybersquatting'', where people can sell a website for a profit.

Watt was at Warwick Farm yesterday and preferred not to get drawn on the matter. He said what he had done was perfectly legal. It is. "We're a company with a registered trademark, and all we're doing is protecting our intellectual property,'' Watt said.

Murrihy was interested when he found out about Watt's online move.

"Irrespective of the legalities, we want all syndicators playing on a level playing field,'' Murrihy said.

"If people are misleading people to a particular syndication website, Racing NSW will certainly be interested in looking at that.''

Chief steward Ray Murrihy wants to interview Dynamic Syndications' Dean Watt. Source: News Limited

$20M WAR FAR FROM OVER

THE connections of $20 million colt Zoustar remain locked in a Group 1 war.

We exclusively revealed last week receivers for BC3, the syndication mob which went under — and thrust boss Bill Vlahos into the spotlight — applied to Racing NSW to put a stop to Zoustar racing until ownership was settled.

BC3 believed it was entitled to a 50 per cent stake in the speedster after settling on a deal with co-owners Widden Stud and Woodside Park last spring. A deal was later cut with Qatar Bloodstock, and for a much larger figure.

Thankfully, stewards and Racing NSW will allow Zoustar to resume in Saturday's Group 1 Canterbury Stakes at Randwick.

But the issue doesn't stop there.

The big tip is BC3 will pursue the matter in court.

Widden weren't happy with our item and stated on Monday "At no stage has BC3 had any ownership interest in Zoustar''.

That contradicted what BC3 wrote in its letter sent to Racing NSW, Widden and Woodside Park, which was exclusively obtained by At The Track.

"There are a number of anomalies with respect to the financial dealings with the horse that may affect the rights of BC3 Thoroughbreds Aus Pty Limited . . . it's our understanding Zoustar will not be permitted to race whilst there is a dispute as to its proper ownership,'' BC3 wrote.

Thankfully, Zoustar won't be put off by the off-track dramas, and is sure to remind punters why he is the best sprinter in Australia on Saturday over 1300m.

Sydney jockeys pose to recreate the Oscars selfie in the jockeys room. Picture: Simon Bullard Source: DailyTelegraph

HOOPS IN THE SELFIE LOOP

ELLEN DeGeneres would have been proud of the Sydney hoops after they repeated her famous Oscars "selfie''.

DeGeneres did a brilliant job hosting Hollywood's night of nights at the start of the week, and her photo with stars Bradley Cooper, Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts and Jennifer Lawrence was retweeted more than three million times, crashing Twitter momentarily. Yesterday, the jockeys did their best to forget they were at Warwick Farm to pose up for At The Track. If we can get this pic retweeted more than 100 times, the ATC promised to put beer back in the press box (OK, they didn't, but hint hint).

REVELLERS RUINING RANDWICK

THOSE bloody ravers. As racing moved to Warwick Farm, the Future Music Festival was muscling in on Royal Randwick.

The dance festival, which was expected to attract 50,000 punters — and headlined by Pharrell Williams— has gone off without a glitch in the past few years.

But disturbing YouTube footage of 100 punters storming a fence and running around near the Theatre of the Horse like crazed, er, um, horses, would have terrified a few Australian Turf Club officials. After all, The Championships is on in a month.

IN THE NAME OF THE SON

WATCHING Chad Schofield win his second Group 1 on Lankan Rupee helped dad Glyn come out and do likewise on Boban at Warwick Farm.

Glyn was overheard shouting "Go Chad! Go Chad!'' as he was glued to a tiny TV in the jockeys' room.

Asked if seeing his son get the job done inspired him, Glyn told us: "It's never hard to lift for Group 1s, but it helps, for sure. I'm just so happy for Chad, that was enormous.'' Glyn said his wife, Tiffany, stayed neutral, and ditched both Flemington and Warwick Farm to watch her hubby and son from the comforts of home.

SYD STILL SPARKLES

AFTER It's A Dundeel's loss, Syd Brown was the most famous Kiwi at Warwick Farm. Brown, 88, spotted in the jockeys room, was recently inducted into the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame.

Syd told us he moved to the burbs in 1971, and still resides in the same Warwick Farm property. He has 21 boxes on his property, but vowed never to lease them.

BATTLERS IN VOGUE

IT was fitting three small-time trainers got the cash in the opening three races at blue-collar Warwick Farm.

Wyong's Kristen Buchanan, and local trainers Gary Nickson and Jarrod Austin all upstaged the heavyweights when Lucky Liaison, Alpha Miss and Territory were first past the post, respectively.

Between the trio, they'd have no more than 24 horses. Austin, who has half a dozen, said it was always good to see, and Warwick Farm always featured the little guys getting the cash.

Nickson had plenty of reasons to celebrate after his South Sydney Rabbitohs won their NRL opener against the Chooks on Thursday night, and on Friday he took the $12 on offer for Alpha Miss.

DEMI'S CLASSIC TILT

DEAR Demi has a brilliant record second-up, and trainer Clarry Conners hopes that continues in the Coolmore Classic in a fortnight.

DIFFERENT IN DELHI

ONE of the highlights of Australian Racing Board boss Peter McGauran's Indian holiday was visiting the racecourse in Delhi. "It's the most unusual racetrack in the world because it's 180 degrees,'' he said. "The maximum distance is 1600m. They have to pull up quickly . . . or they'll hit a brick wall.''

EARLY MIX-UP

THE TAB machines at Warwick Farm wouldn't allow punters to take the "early quaddie'', available in the eastern suburbs on Friday.

THOMMO'S RECORD RUN

ROBERT Thompson racked up five winners this week, including doubles at Muswellbrook, Newcastle and Taree to move to 3985 career winners.

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Victory punishes Mariners’ mistakes

James Jeggo celebrates scoring Victory's opening goal against the Mariners. Source: Robert Prezioso / Getty Images

MELBOURNE Victory boosted its A-League finals credentials with a scrappy 3-1 win over Central Coast Mariners at AAMI Park.

Though neither side played as if their name would be inscribed on the A-League trophy, the Victory's win earned them vital breathing space over their fellow finals aspirants.

A late Kosta Barbarouses goal and James Troisi penalty settled the contest after Jimmy Jeggo put the Victory ahead and Zac Anderson equalised for the Mariners.

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The match began at a languid pace, with both sides in the middle of challenging Asian Champions League campaigns and beginning a fortnight when each side will play five matches.

Already beset with absentees through injury, suspension and international duty, the Victory lost Adama Traore in the warm-up, with Jason Geria his last-minute replacement.

Traore's withdrawal weakened an already young side - with nine of the Victory's match-day squad aged 22 or younger.

The Mariners began on top of their young opponents but failed to take two gilt-edged chances to take the lead.

Zac Anderson pounces on a rebound to grab the Mariners' equaliser. Source: Getty Images

Mitchell Duke looked surprised when the ball rebounded off the back post from a Mariners corner to his feet but could not put it into an unguarded net.

A quarter hour later, Duke's centre was met by Nick Fitzgerald just metres from Lawrence Thomas' goal but he sliced his header too fine and the chance was lost.

The Victory had not had a shot in the first half-hour but, after a warning strike from Gui Finkler, the Brazilian helped his side into the lead on 31 minutes.

Controlling the ball neatly in the box, he picked out Jeggo who fired through the legs of Matthew Sim and into Liam Reddy's goal at the back post.

It was a lead the Victory didn't deserve but one they took to halftime.

Two minutes after the restart, Fitzgerald again mis-fired with a strong chance, striking straight at Thomas when one-on-one.

The Victory looked to have contained the Mariners successfully but a Leigh Broxham foul gave Kim Seung-Yong the chance to fire in a free kick close to the touch line, leading to the Mariners' equaliser.

Young keeper Thomas flew high but missed the Korean's fine delivery, allowing centre-back Anderson to hit home his first goal for the Mariners since joining two seasons ago.

Anderson's impact on the match wasn't over, with Archie Thompson firing a cross into his hand just inside the box on 77 minutes, which Troisi duly converted with a powerful strike from the spot.

In injury-time Barbarouses made the game safe, sliding home Thompson's centre.

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Gritty Broncos buck off Bulldogs

Daniel Vidot of the Broncos celebrates a try with team mates. Source: Mark Nolan / Getty Images

BRISBANE have produced a gritty performance to down Canterbury-Bankstown 18-14 at ANZ Stadium on Friday night.

In Ben Barba's return to Sydney after leaving the club to move north, the Broncos were first to strike through Dale Copley after he pounced on a beautifully weighted grubber from Barba.

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Ben Barba in action for the Broncos. Source: Getty Images

With Parker adding the extras, the Bulldogs replied in the worst possible fashion when Sam Perrett kicked the ball out on the full from the restart.

The visitors soon crossed again through Daniel Vidot, who muscled his way over the line, and when Jack Reed was tackled by without the ball, Ben Hunt added the extras to create a 14-point buffer.

With seven minutes left in the second half, a high tackle from Martin Kennedy on James Graham sent tempers raging.

Kennedy was placed on report, giving the Bulldogs the ammunition they needed.

Josh Morris outleaped Lachlan Maranta for a Trent Hodkinson cross-field kick, and with the halfback converting the try it was 14-6 at the break.

The Bulldogs started the second half looking like a different side.

A steamrolling Tony Williams charging through a hole was never going to be stopped and Hodkinson's boot reduced the margin to just two points.

Dale Copley scores a try. Source: Getty Images

With pressure building on the Broncos courtesy of back-to-back sets, Ennis crossed the line twice but was held up on both occasions by a gritty defence.

A blistering run from Copley was rewarded with a penalty, and shortly after Lachlan Maranta crossed in the corner.

Referee Shane Hayne's initial decision was 'no try'. However, video referees Reece Williams and Henry Perenara disagreed and awarded the try.

Parker was unable to convert, which gave the Bulldogs some hope with six the difference and four minutes left on the clock, however it was too little too late.

Re-live all the action from the ANZ Stadium blockbuster in our NRL Match Centre or blog.

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What we learnt about Brisbane

Bulldogs and Broncos players get in a scuffle. Source: Mark Nolan / Getty Images

FIVE things we learnt about Brisbane following Friday's win over the Bulldogs.

1. WAS TRIAL FORM A FURPHY?

The Broncos last night were an improvement on the rabble who were pumped 48-4 in New Zealand. The Bulldogs made the Broncos look like world-beaters in the first half. Des Hasler's troops were flat early and allowed the Broncos too many cheap metres. But when the Bulldogs upped the ante in the second half, Brisbane had some shaky moments. They showed character to hang on and get home.

Alex Glenn of the Broncos is tackled by Tim Browne and Josh Jackson. Source: Getty Images

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2. A STRONG STRUCTURE?

Brisbane's forwards showed they were prepared to be more enterprising. They used the ball well in traffic and produced some high-energy sets. Winger Daniel Vidot gave Brisbane more punch out wide with his 105kg frame. Ben Barba often lurked as a second five-eighth and gives Brisbane more potency with his backfield incursions.

Brisbane's Josh Hoffman is tackled. Pic Brett Costello Source: News Corp Australia

3. HOFFMAN AT FIVE-EIGHTH?

The jury remains out. Broncos legend Darren Lockyer believes Josh Hoffman needs a month to settle into the position and it would be harsh to crucify the Kiwi Test star after 80 minutes. Hoffman showed some nice touches early but struggled to impose himself when the game was on the line.

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A fight breaks out between Bulldogs Michael Ennis and Brisbane's Martin Kennedy. Pic Brett Costello Source: News Corp Australia

4. HUNT AT HALFBACK?

It's the same old story. There is no doubting Hunt has ability but he continues to drift in and out of games. The game's best halfbacks can still perform behind a beaten pack. When the Broncos lost their way in the second half, Hunt went missing.

Corey Parker listens to referee Shayne Hayne as he puts Martin Kennedy on report. Source: Getty Images

5. CAN THEY BEAT THE COWBOYS?

Round 1 form is never the best barometer but based on North Queensland's start under Paul Green, it's unlikely. The Broncos played well for about 50 minutes last night. They are hard to topple at Suncorp and you wouldn't dismiss them in a Queensland derby.

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Time ticks down for ‘Zullo worrier’

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MICHAEL Zullo says he hasn't asked Adelaide United coach Josep Gombau for any favours to win Ange Postecoglou over.

But Zullo may be worried time is running out to earn a FIFA World Cup spot given the Socceroos have one farewell clash against South Africa in Sydney in May after Postecoglou names his final 23-man squad bound for Brazil.

The Socceroos boss last week said he would consider Zullo as a World Cup defender — rather than a winger — before the Socceroos dropped a 3-0 lead to lose 4-3 to Ecuador at London's The Den on Thursday.

"You'd like to think that everyone is still a (Socceroos) chance for every position on the field,'' said Zullo.

"I don't think anything is final in Ange's squad.

"I wouldn't ask Josep (Gombau) to move me around the pitch, I just want to play in the best position for the squad where he needs me and I enjoy playing on left wing as well."

Gombau blooding Zullo as a left back in Adelaide's 5-1 thrashing over Wellington Phoenix last week may have been a coincidence after Postecoglou was adamant the door was open for the skilful dynamo.

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But that defensive move has potentially given the Brisbane-born former Roar gun his best chance of playing World Cup football in Brazil.

Zullo was yesterday playing in the left back role in Gombau's "preferred XI" in a training session at Hindmarsh before Adelaide faces table-topping Roar at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday.

Zullo's brilliant cross led to Adelaide clinching a season defining 2-1 win in Brisbane in January.

Jordan Elsey nailed the match winner in stoppage time after Roar was reduced to 10 men for 50 minutes when Diogo Ferreira was expelled.

Zullo said he would again subdue celebrations in his home town out of respect for his old club and large family that are Roar membership holders if the Reds claimed three points.

"It's a nice thing to do (not celebrate wins against former clubs),'' Zullo said.

"It think when players do I really appreciate it, it's such a big game and it means a lot for the fans and I don't really want to rub it in their faces because they were so good to me while I was there. That club still means a lot to me."

But Adelaide has been bolstered for the Roar clash.

The return of brilliant playmaker Marcelo Carrusca after missing last week's clash with an adductor strain and defender Jon McKain from suspension will add creativity, strength and depth.

Ryan Griffiths is also up for selection after recovering from a shin complaint and concussion.

Sergio Cirio also appears to be 100 per cent fit after he was knocked unconscious during the Phoenix clash while Bruce Djite is unlikely to recover from an adductor injury.

But Adelaide surely won't be firing blanks in Brisbane given the club's most potent attacking trio Jeronimo Neumann (eight goals), Cirio (seven goals) and Fabio Ferreira (seven goals) should start on Sunday.

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Super Rugby R4 preview

Ben Mowen (L) has been moved to No.8 in a Brumbies backrow reshuffle. Source: Brendon Thorne / Getty Images

THE Super Rugby headlines have been dominated by the Brumbies and Crusaders this week with both sides having to deal with some major setbacks.

The Brumbies have lost star flanker David Pocock for the season while Richie McCaw will miss up to two months for the Crusaders after undergoing thumb surgery.

Both sides are in action across the Tasman where their competition credentials will be judged. Welcome to round four.

Hurricanes v Brumbies, Wellington, 5.35pm Friday (AEDT) Fox Sports 2HD

They may be just one player down but there's no doubting the Brumbies are hurting as a collective after losing David Pocock for the season for the second straight year. Luckily, a flying trip across the Tasman is the perfect medicine.

With the Pocock surgery saga dominating the rugby headlines in Australia this week, the Brumbies will enjoy being out of the close-knit community in Canberra and thrust into a tough battle with the Hurricanes.

Another bonus is the knowledge they know how to get the job done in Wellington, having completely outplayed the Hurricanes in a 37-25 victory on their last visit in 2012.

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The Hurricanes have made the long haul journey back from Africa after two opening losses, although they were only beaten by the Stormers in the final minutes last week.

The loss of Pocock will be felt up front yet the Brumbies still look to have the stronger pack on paper. However it's names like Cory Jane, Beauden Barrett, Julian Savea and skipper Conrad Smith that makes you think it won't be long before the Canes thunder into action.

TIP: Hurricanes - SB

Queensland Reds v Cheetahs, Brisbane, 7.40pm Friday (AEDT) Fox Sports 2HD

There's no place like home. The Reds will be looking to the comforts of Suncorp Stadium to help rid themselves of the nightmare that was last week's record loss to the Waratahs in Sydney.

It's their first game in Brisbane for 2014 and, despite the manner of last week's loss when they were completely outplayed by a superior Tahs outfit, they've a reason to be confident at their local venue.

The Cheetahs have yet to win at Suncorp Stadium and have been outscored 86-24 by the Reds in their three appearances there.

Chris Feauai-Sautia replaces Ben Tapuai at outside centre, Mike Harris returns from injury at No.12, Rod Davies replaces the injured Lachie Tuner on the wing and prop Ben Daley and hooker James Hanson both get their first starts of the season in the front-row for the Reds.

The Cheetahs – who have one win to show from three matches this season – were stunned last start by the Rebels in Melbourne and have since lost prop Coenie Oosthuizen and winger Raymond Rhule to injury.

Gun fullback Willie le Roux can spark an attacking raid out of nothing but the shell-shocked Reds pack will be fired up to ensure he gets very little ball to work with.

TIP: Reds - DB

Chris Feauai-Sautia wins his first start for the season. Source: Getty Images

Crusaders v Stormers, Christchurch, 5.35pm Saturday (AEDT), Fox Sports 2HD

It's the biggest question rumbling around New Zealand Super Rugby circles, and probably the entire competition. Is this just another slow start for the Crusaders or are the seven-time champions in crisis mode?

If you watched their second-half performance against the Blues last weekend you'd swear it was the latter while there's also the small matter of a broken opposable for one Richie McCaw. Sure sounds grim, doesn't it?

But here comes the good news. The Crusaders have not lost to South African opposition on home soil for 32 games, stemming all the way back to round nine 2001.

The Stormers have also been pretty disappointing in their opening two encounters, with only a 77th-minute converted try seeing them past the Hurricanes. They've also lost seven of their last eight against the Crusaders. Beware the wounded horsemen.

The Crusaders have an outstanding record against RSA opposition in New Zealand. Source: Getty Images

TIP: Crusaders - SB

Western Force v Melbourne Rebels, Perth, 7.40pm Saturday (AEDT) Fox Sports 2HD

Can the Rebels roll on? After running in five tries to rout the Cheetahs 35-14, Melbourne turns its attention to an Australian derby clash with the out-of-form Force at nib Stadium.

Coach Tony McGahan might have been rapt with opening his Super Rugby account with a bonus-point win, but he's still opted to make a string of changes to his side – six in total.

These include replacing flyhalf Bryce Hegarty with Angus Roberts, promoting openside flanker Colby Faingaa for his first Melbourne start and giving Japanese recruit Shota Horie and former Waratah Lopeti Timani the chance to earn their first Rebels caps via the bench.

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The Force, who slumped to a second-straight loss last weekend, have also rung the changes.

Sias Ebersohn replaces the benched Zack Holmes in the No.10 jersey, Wilhelm Steenkamp is in for injured lock Hugh McMeniman (neck) and Jayden Hayward's promotion to fullback sees Luke Morahan switch to the wing.

Matt Hodgson becomes the first Force player to reach 100 caps – and his teammates will surely do their utmost to see he marks the occasion with a victory.

But after conceding 70 points in their opening two games it's hard to see them stopping the red-hot Rebels.

TIP: Rebels - DB

Bulls v Blues, Pretoria, 2.05am Sunday (AEDT), Fox Sports 2HD

No Benji? No worries. The Blues didn't use their high-profile recruit for a second in their stirring come-from-behind win over the Crusaders last week, and they won't again this round.

The former NRL star, who warmed the bench for the full 80 minutes in Auckland, has been dropped altogether from the squad to face the Bulls in Pretoria.

Both sides earned their first victory of 2014 last start, although the New Zealanders were arguably more impressive in coming from 17-3 down to stun the Super Rugby heavyweights 35-24.

Blues coach Sir John Kirwan has kept faith in the man who jumped past Marshall to grab the No.10 jersey, young playmaker Simon Hickey, while recalling veteran forwards Keven Mealamu and Tony Woodcock to the starting side.

The Bulls ended the Lions' surprise unbeaten run with a 25-17 home victory to kickstart their season after opening with two losses.

Springboks winger Akona Ndungane earns his Super Rugby 100th cap for a Bulls side that should just be too tough to beat at home.

TIP: Bulls - DB

Sharks v Lions, Durban, 4.10am Sunday (AEDT), Fox Sports 2HD

If you'd told someone this would be among the best games of round four at the start of the season, they'd have sent you straight off to the asylum.

Yet after two opening victories and a narrow loss to the Bulls, the Lions' trip to the Shark Tank might not actually be the foregone conclusion it appeared a few weeks back.

The hosts deserve to be red-hot favourites after impressive wins over the Bulls and Hurricanes while the bye was a welcome opportunity to rest a few early niggles.

Jake White has made the ideal start to his tenure in Durban and another win will smash any lingering doubts his side are the team to beat in South Africa.

Keep an eye on the battle between likely Springboks No.10 Patrick Lambie and rising Lions fly half Marnitz Boshoff – the guy can kick a drop goal.

TIP: Sharks - SB

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Goodwin was my rock: Watson

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ADELAIDE premiership player and former captain Simon Goodwin was the rock skipper Jobe Watson needed as he worked through Essendon's testing supplement scandal last season.

His influence has led to Watson tipping he'll make an outstanding senior coach as Goodwin, currently an assistant coach, and Essendon prepare for 2014 after a year from hell.

It is a struggle that continues today, with players still having potential bans hanging over their heads.

But when the storm was raging at its loudest, Watson told The Advertiser Goodwin had provided him with invaluable support both about working as a captain and life away from the game.

"I think being a former captain, he's been able to give me enormous advice from his experiences,'' Watson said.

"I ask him about a lot of things, football related and personal things as well.

"I find him to be a really good sounding board.

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"Him along with all of the coaches, they're good people to talk to through different times.

"He was certainly a person I could speak to about things.''

Goodwin had to deal with his own issues while forging one of the Crows' most decorated careers: he admitted to a gambling problem after being fined $40,000 (half of it suspended) for betting on football by the AFL.

The same player who was considered the club's greatest captain by former coach Neil Craig negotiated a path through it and finished his career on a high note before being recruited as an assistant by Essendon.

As midfield coach, Goodwin continues to be a regular sounding board for Watson.

"Goody's obviously responsible for the midfield and I have a great relationship for him,'' Watson said.

"I think that his transition from playing into coaching, with an incredible work ethic ... I've really enjoyed working with him and I think that one day he'll make a fantastic senior coach.

"He understands what his requirements are, he focuses all of his energy on trying to make the players better and trying to implement the things that he thinks are going to be successful.

"I've really enjoyed working with him.''

Watson also spoke about the rejuvenation of Mark "Bomber'' Thompson, the former Geelong premiership coach who will take over while James Hird serves his one-year suspension for his part in the supplement scandal.

Watson, a Brownlow Medallist and the son of Bombers premiership player Tim, could not speak more highly of the interim coach.

After leaving Geelong feeling exhausted by the game, Thompson had rediscovered his passion.

"The person I see is really excited,'' Watson said.

"I think he's really enthused by the role and he's certainly driving us hard.

"He's obviously got the experience and knows what the requirements are to be a senior coach and we're really excited about not only how he's going but the whole coaching staff and the team.''

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KB shows Quade he can box too

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LEGENDARY boxing trainer Johnny Lewis declared that Kurtley Beale could "rule the world" if he decided to quit rugby for the sweet science after putting the Waratahs through a gruelling workout this week.

Lewis was left highly impressed by Beale's pugilism skills after training the Tahs for more than an hour at a boxing gym in Surry Hills on Thursday.

"He's an indigenous kid, and with that comes, in whatever you want to do, success," Lewis said.

"Kurtley's certainly got more than a teaspoon in him and subsequently he is a beautifully balanced little athlete.

"With discipline, he can rule the world. He's a little beauty.

"I'm not surprised because I'm fortunate enough to have a lot of indigenous friends and they can all do that, AFL, rugby league, running, whatever they want to do they'll excel at.

"I think we're looking at a real superstar in Kurtley."

But Beale downplayed any prospects that he could follow in the footsteps of Anthony Mundine, Sonny Bill Williams and Quade Cooper from the football field to the squared circle.

"I don't think so, I'll stick to what I know best," Beale said.

"I've got a lot of respect for boxing and all the athletes that box.

"I don't want to show any disrespect in that regard, so I'll just stick to footy.

Beale (R) made quite the impression on Lewis. Source: News Corp Australia

"I've got no boxing experience, I'm not really a fighter.

"But I follow the sport, I'm obviously a big fan of [Anthony] 'Choc' Mundine, and the big guns like Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.

"It's a tough sport, it battles you more mentally than physically I guess, you've got to hang in there for a long time to get the right workout."

Beale was taken aback by Lewis's lofty praise.

"That's a nice compliment, I'll take that from Johnny," Beale said.

"I respect boxing, it's a great sport, great entertainment, certainly when we're doing some cross-fit training it gets the heart pumping.

"It's nice to change it up a bit, get off the field and try something different."

Lewis added: "I'd like to see him do it more regularly, and I'm sure it would help his confidence because he is a shy kid.

"With some serious training he could be anything, he's like a hot knife going through butter, so smooth."

A few other NSW players also showed glimpses of promise throughout the session including prop Sekope Kepu, lock Kane Douglas and backrower Wycliff Palu, while super-fit halfback Nick Phipps handled the physically challenging session best.

With a bye this weekend, the Waratahs decided to mix up their training regime with the boxing session under Australian Hall of Famer Lewis, who trained six world champions including Jeff Fenech, Kostya Tsyzu and Jeff Harding.

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Reds won’t be bullied by Cheetahs

Ed Quirk is part of a dynamic Reds backrow. Source: Darren England / News Limited

THE chest-beating Cheetahs have thrown down the gauntlet to the Reds on Friday night by spruiking that no Aussie forward pack should ever bully them.

No better call to arms could be invented for the Queenslanders as a final top up of intensity for their first home game at Suncorp Stadium in nine months.

It will be music to the ears of recalled Reds prop Ben Daley because building the right mentality to face a South African foe has been the message all week.

"Taking the game physically to the Cheetahs as well as showing patience with the ball are big because we came unstuck in those areas against NSW," Daley said.

Much as the Reds have been soul-searching this week to bounce back from the 32-5 flop against NSW, the Cheetahs have copped an old-style rev-up.

Cheetahs coach Naka Drotske spared no player after his 2013 playoff side coughed up 25 turnovers in their 35-14 crash in Melbourne a week ago.

"We were bullied by an Australian side at the breakdown. That's simply not on," Drotske fumed to SuperSport in South Africa.

Reds coach Richard Graham swatted away the backhander which came after another jibe from Jacques Potgieter, the Springbok in the NSW pack.

"It seems a bit of a theme from the South Africans with Potgieter saying Australians were more technical at the breakdown whereas he is used to being physical and bashing things," Graham said.

"Don't worry, we have been getting the right mentality for this game to be there physically but also be aware.

"The Cheetahs initiate a lot of their play from (winger) Willie le Roux. He's a dangerous guy when you can chip kick four times from your own quarter as he did recently against the Lions."

The Reds have to aim up. Right now, no team in Super Rugby is operating with fewer minutes in possession per game (11 min 47 sec).

It is an indictment on their ball-winning, last weekend's kicking follies and giving away more penalties per game (15) than any other.

Drotske was Cheetahs coach when they were trounced 41-8 at Suncorp Stadium three years ago by the Quade Cooper magic show.

That was the day game when Cooper unleashed a barely believable 25m cross-field kick into Digby Ioane's arms when behind his own tryline.

Flyhalf Cooper can expect both fair and marginal attention on Friday night because Drotske's lesson from 2011 was blunt.

"We gave Cooper far too much space when you have to be in his face for the full 80 minutes," Drotske said when lecturing himself three years ago.

Daley and motivated hooker James Hanson both warned that 113kg Springboks hooker Adriaan Strauss is the big ball-carrier that Reds defenders must fell every time.

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Kiwi great knocks back Klitschko

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NEW Zealand's greatest boxer David Tua has shown trans-Tasman solidarity by refusing to help world heavyweight champ Wladimir Klitschko beat Brisbane slugger Alex Leapai on the day after Anzac Day.

Klitschko offered the heavy-hitting Tua the job as his chief sparring partner at his training camp in Austria ahead of his world title defence in Oberhausen, Germany on April 26.

But Tua refused the lucrative offer point blank, saying there was no way he would help anyone beat a "Samoan brother.''

Tua throws a wild left during his world title fight against Lennox Lewis in 2000 in Las Vegas. Source: AP

Samoan-born Leapai was delighted with the news, declaring that Tua was his idol growing up and an inspiration to young Samoans everywhere.

Tua, 41, was one of the most feared fighters in the world in the late 90s, knocking out four men who at one time held the world heavyweight title, including a 19-second blowout of Puerto Rican John Ruiz.

He lost a points decision against Lennox Lewis in his only crack at the championship in 2000, but Leapai says he won't make the same mistake of hanging back when he hits Germany.

Tua poses with a tiger at one of his training camps near Las Vegas in 2000. Source: AP

Klitschko has hired three crack sparring partners around the same size as the 183cm, 110kg Leapai. They are Samoan-born Natu Visinia, an unbeaten prospect based in Los Angeles, veteran Florida-based Sherman "Tank'' Williams, from the Bahamas, and two-time British amateur champion Simon Barclay.

The Englishman told reporters this week that he will be used mainly for speed work as Klitschko plans on setting a fast pace against the hulking Brisbane delivery driver.

Leapai will begin sparring in Sydney on Monday, working with former rugby league hitman Solomon Haumono, ex-WBO title challenger Kali Meehan, former Aussie champ Michael Kirby and former Penrith Panthers junior Bowie Tupou, who is back in Australia after seven years fighting in America.

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Leapai's trainer Noel Thornberry said he was delighted with Leapai's preparation.

"We've still got seven weeks of sparring ahead of us,'' he said, "but already Alex is in great shape. His explosive strength is better than ever and he is on target to shock the world for the upset of the century.''

Leapai visited his old school at Woodridge High on Wednesday, telling students there that if they work hard and focus on their dreams they can shake up the world.

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Skippers in push for origin return

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CLUB captains - with the strongest voices from SA pair Matthew Pavlich and Ryan Griffen - are reinforcing their campaign to restore representative football on the AFL calendar.

They are preferring a return to Origin football rather than endorsing the new option from the player's union - a City v Country clash every two years.

Fremantle captain Pavlich and new Western Bulldogs skipper Griffen on Wednesday kept the Origin debate alive by pushing their agenda in Adelaide at the captains' annual meeting with the AFL Commission.

But Pavlich, who has not played an Origin game, concedes finding the right format and timing for representative football is the biggest challenge in breaking the block from club leaders. And the commercial viability of an Origin championship running across three or four years is the major question to answer to the AFL.

"Everyone among the players, the public and AFL would love it to go ahead," said Pavlich, a member of SA's last Origin training squad in 1999.

"But the major stumbling block most people see is the timing - and the format. So they are pretty big stumbling blocks, unfortunately, and we are going to have to resolve them at some point.

"Everyone recognises it would be a great part of our game. It is just a matter of working through the details."

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Griffen said he would "love'' to represent South Australia in State-of-Origin.

"It would mean a fair bit to me,'' the former South Adelaide star said.

"To be able to represent your State would be amazing and to play with champions of the game like Pav would be exciting.

"I'm not sure just how it would work and where it would fit into the footy calendar but I'm sure we would be able to find a way.

"While I can't speak for every player I'm sure most would be behind the concept. If I was called up to play for my State I would be honoured.''

The AFL Players' Association last month circulated a discussion paper among the league's 700 players asking for a vote on the traditional Origin concept or a new theme with the City-Country clash that is easier to place in the AFL calendar.

But the spirit for representing a state rather than a zone holds strongest.

"I'm happy to explore City v Country a little further, but for me State-of-Origin has my vote," Pavlich said.

"I'm holding out hope that I'll get that red South Australian jumper, but I think I probably won't ever wear it."

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Adelaide Oval wows AFL captains

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ADELAIDE Oval became the crown jewel of Australian football on Wednesday night.

Retiring AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou launched the AFL premiership season at the redeveloped Oval declaring the return of elite football to the Adelaide CBD as one of his greatest achievements - and the Oval as the game's best venue.

And this verdict had the unanimous endorsement of the 18 AFL club captains who saw the new Oval for the first time yesterday while work continued on the eastern stand with the rush to the Showdown opener on Saturday, March 29.

Fremantle captain, South Australian Matthew Pavlich, could appreciate the $535 million transformation of the Oval more than most of his AFL rivals. He played SANFL league and under-age football at the Oval a decade ago when footballers changed in cramped changerooms under the western stand where tall players would bump their heads on the corrugated iron ceilings.

Pavlich will return to the Oval on May 10 to lead the Dockers against Port Adelaide from the AFL's most spacious and modern facilities for both players and spectators.

"I'm gobsmacked," Pavlich said on Wednesday.

"They have retained the hill, the Adelaide Oval feeling and made it look spectacular. They have done a fantastic job. It looks brilliant.

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"All credit to the AFL for finally getting the SACA and the SANFL together to make this work. It looks fantastic.

"I never thought I would play an AFL game here - it just seemed a fait accompli that the SANFL would stay at Football Park and that is how it would be forever. And I didn't think I would be playing this long to see it through."

Pavlich's - and his colleagues' - excitement on seeing the new Oval on Wednesday confirmed Power coach Ken Hinkley's view that neither SA-based team, the Crows and Port, will command an on-field advantage this season.

But Pavlich says the one edge that can be transported from Football Park to the new Oval is the fervent support the Crows and Power have from South Australian football fans.

"When there is 50,000 Croweaters - whether they are Crows or Port supporters - making some noise, I'm sure that will be an advantage to the home side," Pavlich said.

The Crows and Power teams will get their first practice runs on Adelaide Oval in the next fortnight before they are locked out the venue for the Rolling Stones concert on Saturday, March 22.

Port captain Travis Boak played in the only AFL game at the old Oval, the 2011 season-closer with Melbourne.

He returned to the new Oval on Wednesday noting the stadium is a new symbol of pride for SA football - and the state.

"Walking across the grass today was exciting in itself, so we're looking forward to playing here," Boak said.

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Live: de Villiers’ epic knock ended

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INSINUATIONS of ball tampering from both sides continue to blight the series, with Australia warned by the umpires about how the ball was being treated during a tense final day of the third and deciding Test.

Shortly before lunch, with South Africa hanging on grimly at 5-121, umpires Aleem Dar and Kumar Dharmasena called captain Michael Clarke over and the three had an animated, arm-waving conversation.

Dar was holding the ball in one hand and appeared to be gesturing to it, however the ball was not changed and the umpires did not penalise Australia five runs, which they must do under the playing conditions if they believe the ball has been deliberately tampered with.

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The problem appeared to be the Australians constantly throwing the ball into rough areas around the pitch and practice pitches.

Faf du Plessis and AB de Villiers were thorns in Australia's side. Source: Getty Images

After the conversation Ryan Harris gestured to umpire Dharmasena, with the fast bowler rubbings his hands together in exaggerated fashion.

The Australians believe that South African wicketkeeper AB de Villiers helped rough the ball up during the second Test in Port Elizabeth by constantly rubbing it in his gloves.

David Warner made the claim on Sydney radio and was fined $2900 by the International Cricket Council for making detrimental public comment. Warner was also disciplined by the Australian team hierarchy.

South Africa levelled the series at one-all in Port Elizabeth thanks to some brilliant reverse swing bowling.

It also became a hot issue in this Test when convicted ball tamper Faf du Plessis questioned how Australia was able to generate reverse swing so quickly.

"I must be honest, I was really surprised to see the ball reverse from their side," du Plessis said after the third day. "I think it was 27 overs when the ball started reversing, especially after rain and a wet outfield (from the day before). I was really surprised by that, so … let's leave it at that."

Du Plessis was fined 50 per cent of his match fee after he was found guilty of ball tampering in the second Test against Pakistan last October.

He was caught on camera rubbing the ball against a zip on his pocket, leading umpires Ian Gould and Rod Tucker to penalise South Africa five runs and change the ball.

While Australia was struggling to win the Test, the unique record of never losing a series in the new South Africa remains intact.

It is a remarkable achievement which now extends to seven series in a row since South Africa returned from sporting isolation more than two decades ago.

The record was safe a long way from the end of the third and final Test at Newlands, which Australia dominated from the outset.

The only wicket to fall before lunch on day five was nightwatchman Kyle Abbott. He batted for almost two hours for just seven before leaving a ball from James Pattinson which came back to hit off stump.

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Gilmore’s path less rocky

Australian surfing star Stephanie Gilmore, 26, watches the water before paddling out. Source: Luke Marsden / News Corp Australia

THE surfer they call Happy Gilmore is smiling again.

After an ordinary season last year and a sluggish start to her 2014 campaign, five-time world champion Stephanie Gilmore looks to have her mojo back.

Gilmore, who at 26 is the oldest surfer on the women's world tour, on Tuesday surged into the quarter-finals of the Roxy Pro season-opener at Snapper Rocks.

In an ominous sign, Hawaiian world champion Carissa Moore top-scored for the day with an incredible 19.50 points out of a possible 20.

Four-time Roxy Pro winner Gilmore had been facing sudden-death elimination after an interference blunder relegated her to last place in her opening round heat but she burst back into calculations with a vintage display of power and grace.

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After a nervous start to her Round 2 heat, Gilmore survived a nail-biting battle with exciting Victorian rookie Niki Van Dijk before comfortably winning her third round heat over in-form Hawaiian Courtney Conlogue and Kiwi Paige Hareb.

The Gold Coast golden girl now meets Conlogue, who was on fire on Tuesday with two near-perfect Round 2 rides, in the quarters.

"I was definitely more relaxed than in Round 2,'' said Gilmore, who surrendered the world title to Moore last year and finished a distant fifth in the world rankings.

"You know you can't lose (in the third round), so some sort of calmness comes over you and you can piece together a good heat.

"Courtney's dangerous, so I knew I just had to put 200 per cent into every single turn, every single wave. That's what I tried to do.''

An Instagram image of Stephanie Gilmore at the Roxy Pro at Snapper Rocks Source: Supplied

Moore was the day's standout performer, blasting fellow Hawaiian Malia Manuel and Frenchwoman Pauline Ado out of the water with two near-perfect rides that had some commentators calling it the best display ever by a female surfer.

Moore's surfing was so scintillating she was able to discard a 9.57-point ride as part of her two-wave score after bettering it with a 9.60 and a 9.90.

Defending Roxy Pro champion Tyler Wright, runner-up for last year's world title, and world No.2 Sally Fitzgibbons are also through to the quarter-finals.

Wright will meet South Africa's world No.8 Bianca Buitendag while Fitzgibbons takes on American Lakey Peterson.

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SuperCoach teams analysis - Rd 1

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SUPERCOACHES had their prayers answered when a host of unexpected cheapies were named for round one.

Warriors coach Matt Elliott pulled the biggest surprise, naming $102,500 bargain Carlos Tuimavave ahead of former Test star Konrad Hurrell.

Elliot also named young gun John Palavi in the starting back row ahead of the likes of Feleti Mateo (bench) and Ben Henry (NSW Cup).

In other SuperCoach news from the round one teams:

• RAIDERS coach Ricky Stuart named $87,500 cheapie Matt Allwood in the backline ahead of Sami Sauiluma, Bill Tupou and Holden Cup Team of the Year member Jack Ahearn;

• MANU Ma'u was named in the starting back row at the Eels, with Joseph Paulo, Darcy Lussick and Peni Terepo named on the bench;

• YOUNGSTER Corey Thompson was named on the wing for Canterbury in the absence of Tim Lafai (broken hand, round two) and Krisnan Inu (broken jaw, round six);

• THREE cheapies emerged at the Sea Eagles following a front row exodus, with Josh Starling to start and James Hasson and Jesse Sene-Lefao named on the bench;

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• BARGAIN buy Dale Copley was named in the right centre spot vacated by Justin Hodges (Achilles, round six);

• BOOM backrower Jason Taumalolo signalled he is in for a breakout year by being named on the left edge for the Cowboys, with established star Gavin Cooper forced to move to the right;

• ROOKIE Young Tonumaipea was named on the wing for the Storm following injuries to Justin O'Neill (knee, round six) and Matt Duffie (ACL, season);

• NINES front row revelation James Gavet scored a bench spot at the Tigers;

• HIGHLY-fancied rookies Mitch Cornish (Raiders), Kodi Nikorima (Broncos) and Zac Santo (Cowboys) missed selection;

• COREY Parker, arguably the best player in SuperCoach history, was named at prop, potentially putting his game time in doubt. That said, Parker plays 80 minutes in the middle even when named in the No. 13;

• ANDREW McCullough was named as the only hooker in the Brisbane side, signalling he is set to step his game time up to 80 minutes;

• PAUL Carter was named as bench hooker for the Titans, with Beau Falloon to start and Matt Srama (shoulder, round four) injured.

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Thursday, Mar 6, Rabbitohs v Roosters, ANZ Stadium, Channel Nine, 8:05pm AEDT

Rabbitohs: Greg Inglis, Nathan Merritt, Beau Champion, Bryson Goodwin, Lote Tuqiri, Dylan Walker, Adam Reynolds, George Burgess, Issac Luke, Sam Burgess, Chris McQueen, Ben Te'o, John Sutton (c). Interchange: Ben Lowe, Joe Picker, David Tyrrell, Luke Burgess, Joel Reddy, Kyle Turner

Notable absentees: Thomas Burgess (foot, round two), Jason Clark (ankle, round two), Luke Keary (pectoral, mid-season)

Comment: Dylan Walker (ankle) and Adam Reynolds (knee) form a new-look halves combo, but are both battling injuries. Issac Luke is the only hooker named and therefore guaranteed 80 minutes. Lote Tuqiri was a cheapie option a few days ago, but has been superseded by the great backline buys to emerge in round one. Greg Inglis is an obvious backline keeper option, especially with Jamie Lyon in doubt with a thigh injury. Kyle Turner will probably miss out for round one, but the fact he's been named 19th man shows he's in the running as a cheapie later in the year.

Roosters: Anthony Minichiello, Daniel Tupou, Michael Jennings, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, James Maloney, Mitchell Pearce, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Jake Friend, Sam Moa, Boyd Cordner, Sonny Bill Williams, Frank Paul Nuuausala. Interchange: Daniel Mortimer, Aidan Guerra, Mitchell Aubusson, Dylan Napa, Kane Evans, Kurt Kara

Notable absentees: Isaac Liu (knee, indefinite)

Comment: The Roosters welcome back Roger-Tuivasa Sheck (leg), who missed the World Club Challenge. The team features 16 grand final players, with Luke O'Donnell (retired) the only man missing from the 17. Michael Jennings looms as a popular buy following his three-try effort in the WCC. Sonny Bill Williams is a near-must given his great bye schedule. Kane Evans has been named 18th man and will no doubt come into contention as a cheapie later on (or from round one if there are injuries later in the week).

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Friday, Mar 7, Bulldogs v Broncos, ANZ Stadium, Channel Nine, 8.05pm AEDT

Bulldogs: Sam Perrett, Mitch Brown, Josh Morris, Chase Stanley, Corey Thompson, Josh Reynolds, Trent Hodkinson, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis (c), James Graham, Frank Pritchard (c), Tony Williams, Dale Finucane. Interchange: Josh Jackson, Pat O'Hanlon, Tim Browne, David Klemmer, Moses Mbye

Notable absentees: Tim Lafai (broken hand, round two), Krisnan Inu (broken jaw, round six), Greg Eastwood (foot, round three), Sam Kasiano (foot, round four), Damien Cook (broken hand, round five), Drury Low (broken hand, round four), David Minute (shoulder, round two), Reni Maitua, Tyrone Phillips (both NSW Cup)

Comment: Youngster Corey Thompson has emerged as a cheapie option after being named on the wing in the absence of Tim Lafai (broken hand, round two) and Krisnan Inu (broken jaw, round six). But with Lafai due back in round two, the danger is that Thompson will play just one game before being dropped. Potential cheapie Moses Mbye has been named 18th man and also as halfback in NSW Cup.

Broncos: Ben Barba, Daniel Vidot, Jack Reed, Dale Copley, Lachlan Maranta, Josh Hoffman, Ben Hunt, Josh McGuire, Andrew McCullough, Corey Parker (c), Alex Glenn, Sam Thaiday, Matt Gillett. Interchange: Ben Hannant, Martin Kennedy, Todd Lowrie, Jarrod Wallace, David Hala

Notable absentees: Justin Hodges (Achilles, round six), David Stagg (knee, round four), Jordan Kahu (knee, round four), Josh Hoffman (ribs, round one), Ben Barba (ankle/foot, round one), Corey Oates (knee, indefinite)

Comment: Potential cheapie Kodi Nikorima has been left out, with Josh Hoffman to play five-eighth. Dale Copley is a bargain option after being named in the right centre spot usually occupied by Justin Hodges (Achilles, round six). Corey Parker has been named at prop, which is a worry in terms of game time, although he plays like a prop every week even with 13 on his back.

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Saturday, Mar 8, Panthers v Knights, Centrebet Stadium, FOX, 4:30pm AEDT

Panthers: Matt Moylan, Josh Mansour, Dean Whare, Jamal Idris, Dave Simmons, Jamie Soward, Peter Wallace, Brent Kite, Kevin Kingston (c), Tim Grant, Lewis Brown, Elijah Taylor, Adam Docker. Interchange: James Segeyaro, Nigel Plum, Tyrone Peachey, Sam McKendry, Jeremy Latimore

Notable absentees: James Roberts (broken ankle, round seven), Eto Nabuli (knee, round four), Wes Naiqama (pectoral, indefinite), George Jennings (dislocated elbow, mid-season), Luke Capewell (turf toe, round seven), Sika Manu (shoulder, round four), Bryce Cartwright (wrist, round three), Isaac John, Kevin Naiqama, Ryan Simpkins (all NSW Cup)

Comment: James Segeyaro is no longer a SuperCoach option after being named on the bench, with Kevin Kingston to start at hooker. Jamie Soward (ankle), Tim Grant (ribs) and Jamal Idris (hamstring) are looking to return from injury. Potential cheapie Eto Nabuli (knee, round four) is out.

Knights: Darius Boyd, James McManus, Dane Gagai, Joey Leilua, Akuila Uate, Michael Dobson, Tyrone Roberts, Kade Snowden, Kurt Gidley (c), Willie Mason, Beau Scott, Robbie Rochow, Jeremy Smith. Interchange: Travis Waddell, Chris Houston, Alex McKinnon, Adam Cuthbertson, David Fa'alogo

Notable absentees: Jarrod Mullen (hamstring, round 10), Zane Tetevano (broken hand, round three), Clint Newton (bicep, season), Korbin Sims (NSW Cup)

Comment: Michael Dobson replaces Jarrod Mullen (hamstring, round 10) at five-eighth, with Kurt Gidley to play hooker. Young gun Adam Clydesdale misses a spot as bench hooker, with Travis Waddell preferred. Wayne Bennett has resisted the urge to play Darius Boyd in the halves, ending Dane Gagai's chance at fullback. Potential cheapie Korbin Sims (NSW Cup) misses selection.

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Saturday, Mar 8, Sea Eagles v Storm, Brookvale Oval, FOX, 7:00pm AEDT

Sea Eagles: Brett Stewart, Cheyse Blair, Jamie Lyon (c), Steve Matai, Peta Hiku, Kieran Foran, Daly Cherry-Evans, Josh Starling, Matt Ballin. Brenton Lawrence, Anthony Watmough, Justin Horo, Glenn Stewart. Interchange: Jesse Sene-Lefao, James Hasson, Jamie Buhrer, Dunamis Lui

Notable absentees: Jason King (shoulder, round two), Jorge Taufua (shoulder, round three), David Williams (knee, round two), Tom Symonds (back, indefinite), Jake Trbojevic (NSW Cup)

Comment: There are cheapie galore in the forwards given the injury to Jason King (shoulder, round two), coupled with an off-season exodus of props. Josh Starling has been named to start and is an absolute must. Jesse-Sene Lefao and James Hasson have been named on the bench are also solid options. Brenton Lawrence is the only NRL-recognised prop in the side and should up his average game time from 44 minutes. However, Dunamis Lui is not a great option given he averaged just 0.90 points per minute last year. Pre-season prop fancy Jake Trbojevic has been named in NSW Cup. Jorge Taufua (shoulder, round three) and David Williams (knee, round two) have been ruled out, with Peta Hiku and Cheyse Blair coming onto the wings. Jamie Lyon (thigh) and Steve Matai (foot) are battling injuries.

Storm: Billy Slater, Sisa Waqa, Will Chambers, Mahe Fonua, Young Tonumaipea, Ben Hampton, Ben Roberts, Jesse Bromwich, Cameron Smith (c), Bryan Norrie, Kevin Proctor, Ryan Hoffman. Ryan Hinchcliffe. Interchange: Kenny Bromwich, Tohu Harris, Jordan McLean, George Rose, Mitch Garbutt, Slade Griffin, Joel Romelo

Notable absentees: Matt Duffie (ACL, season), Justin O'Neill (knee, round six), Cooper Cronk (shoulder, round two)

Comment: Cooper Cronk (shoulder, round two) is replaced at halfback by Ben Roberts. But Billy Slater (knee) has recovered from injury and takes up his spot at fullback. Young Tonumaipea has emerged as a cheapie option and should get a run until at least round six given the injuries to Matt Duffie (ACL, season) and Justin O'Neill (knee, round six). As expected, Ben Hampton has been named in Gareth Widdop's vacated five-eighth spot. At $145,000, he is a genuine option given Zac Santo, Kodi Nikorima, Mitch Cornish and Luke Keary have fallen through as cheapies. Cameron Smith is an obvious keeper once again.

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Saturday, Mar 8, Cowboys v Raiders, Townsville Stadium, FOX, 9:00pm (local), 8:00pm AEDT

Cowboys: Michael Morgan, Kyle Feldt, Brent Tate, Kane Linnett, Antonio Winterstein, Johnathan Thurston (c), Robert Lui, Matt Scott (c), Ray Thompson, James Tamou, Gavin Cooper, Jason Taumalolo, Joel Riethmuller. Interchange: Rory Kostjasyn, Tariq Sims, Glenn Hall, Scott Bolton, Ashton Sims, Zac Santo

Notable absentees: Lachlan Coote (ACL, season), Hezron Murgha (knee, mid-season)

Comment: Cheapie Zac Santo has been beaten to the fullback spot by Michael Morgan, although coach Paul Green has left us hanging by naming Santo as 19th man. Jason Taumalolo has been named to start on the left fringe and has pushed star veteran Gavin Cooper to the right. Ray Thompson has been named at starting hooker, but may not get the minutes required for big price rises given Rory Kostjasyn will fill in at dummy half off the bench.

Raiders: Anthony Milford, Reece Robinson, Jarrod Croker, Matt Allwood, Edrick Lee, Jack Wighton, Terry Campese (c), Dane Tilse, Glen Buttriss, Brett White, Josh Papalii, Joel Edwards, Shaun Fensom. Interchange: Josh McCrone, Jarrad Kennedy, Paul Vaughan, Shannon Boyd, Mark Nicholls

Notable absentees: David Shillington (ribs, round two-four), Tom Learoyd-Lahrs (ankle, round three-five), Mitch Cornish, Lagi Setu (both NSW Cup), Jack Ahearn

Comment: Matt Allwood will be a popular cheapie after gaining a starting centre spot ahead of the likes of Sami Sauiluma and Bill Tupou. Shannon Boyd is also a cheapie option after scoring a spot in the 17 given injuries to topline props David Shillington (ribs, round two-four) and Tom Learoyd-Lahrs (ankle, round three-five). Anthony Milford offers serious value at either fullback or five-eighth.

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Sunday, Mar 9, Dragons v Tigers, ANZ Stadium, Channel Nine (delay), 3:00pm AEDT

Dragons: Adam Quinlan, Brett Morris, Dylan Farrell, Gerard Beale, Jason Nightingale, Gareth Widdop, Michael Witt, Jack de Belin, Mitch Rein, Dan Hunt, Leeson Ah Mau, Ben Creagh (c), Trent Merrin. Interchange: Bronson Harrison, Kyle Stanley, Joel Thompson, Tyson Frizell, Mike Cooper

Notable absentees: Josh Dugan (knee, round five), Jack Stockwell (hamstring, round three), Sam Williams (NSW Cup)

Comment: Potential cheapie Gerard Beale has been named at centre. Mitch Rein is unlikely to play 80 minutes given the presence of Kyle Stanley on the bench. Stanley filled in at hooker in the Charity Shield. Trent Merrin is a serious keeper once again. Michael Witt has beaten Sam Williams to the halfback spot.

Tigers: James Tedesco, Marika Koroibete, Keith Lulia, Chris Lawrence, Pat Richards, Braith Anasta, Luke Brooks, Aaron Woods, Robbie Farah, Martin Taupau, Liam Fulton, Bodene Thompson, Adam Blair. Interchange: Cory Paterson, Ava Seumanufagai, Sauaso Sue, James Gavet

Notable absentees: Curtis Sironen (foot, mid-season), Tim Simona (shoulder, round two), Dene Halatau (ankle, mid-season), Tim Moltzen (knee, indefinite), Keith Galloway (toe, round two), Blake Austin (NSW Cup), David Nofoaluma

Comment: Nines revelation James Gavet is a cheapie option after scoring a bench spot, although Keith Galloway (toe, round two) is still to return. Braith Anasta is a poor SuperCoach player, but could be a cheap option at five-eighth given the lack of bargains. Robbie Farah is the second best hooker in SuperCoach history.

Sunday, Mar 9, Eels v Warriors, Pirtek Stadium, FOX, 6:30pm AEDT

Eels: Jarryd Hayne, Semi Radradra, Will Hopoate, Willie Tonga, Vai Toutai, Corey Norman, Luke Kelly, Tim Mannah, Nathan Peats, Fuifui Moimoi, Ben Smith, Manu Ma'u, Kenny Edwards. Interchange: Joseph Paulo, Peni Terepo, Darcy Lussick, Kelepi Tanginoa, David Gower, Mitch Allgood

Notable absentees: Jacob Loko (knee, indefinite), Lee Mossop (shoulder, mid-season), Ken Sio, Ryan Morgan, Chris Sandow, Daniel Harrison, Brendan Santi (all NSW Cup)

Comment: Top buys Jarryd Hayne, Will Hopoate, Willie Tonga and Nathan Peats have all been named, as expected. Manu Ma'u has emerged as a serious cheapie after being named in the starting back row, with Joseph Paulo, Darcy Lussick and Peni Terepo on the bench. Luke Kelly performed poorly in SuperCoach last year, but is a cheapie option nonetheless given the lack of cheapies in the halves. Ken Sio, Ryan Morgan, Chris Sandow, Daniel Harrison, Brendan Santi have all been named in NSW Cup.

Warriors: Sam Tomkins, Glen Fisiiahi, Dane Nielsen, Carlos Tuimavave, Manu Vatuvei, Chad Townsend, Shaun Johnson, Sam Rapira, Nathan Friend, Ben Matulino, Jayson Bukuya, Simon Mannering (c), John Palavi. Interchange: Jacob Lillyman, Suaia Matagi, Sione Lousi, Feleti Mateo, Jerome Ropati

Notable absentees: Thomas Leuluai (groin, indefinite), Kevin Locke (knee, indefinite), Konrad Hurrell, Ben Henry (NSW Cup)

Comment: Coach Matthew Elliott produced a surprise by naming cheapie Carlos Tuimavave ahead of Konrad Hurrell at centre. Ben Henry will also play NSW Cup for the Vulcans as he continues his comeback from an ACL injury, with cheapie John Palavi to start at lock. Sione Lousi was in great form at the Nines and is a cheapie option up front. Shaun Johnson is hard to resist given his great pre-season form.

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Monday, Mar 10, Sharks v Titans, Remondis Stadium, FOX, 7:00pm AEDT

Sharks: Michael Gordon, Sosaia Feki, Blake Ayshford, Jonathan Wright, Beau Ryan, Todd Carney, Daniel Holdsworth, Andrew Fifita, John Morris, Bryce Gibbs, Matt Prior, Wade Graham, Paul Gallen (c). Interchange: Isaac De Gois, Sam Tagataese, Tupou Sopoaga, Siosaia Vave, Tinirau Arona

Notable absentees: Luke Lewis (shoulder, round five), Anthony Tupou (knee, mid-season), Jeff Robson (facial fractures, indefinite), Nathan Gardner, Nathan Stapleton, Eric Grothe Jr, Michael Lichaa, David Fifita (all NSW Cup)

Comment: Michael Gordon is expected to kick goals given Todd Carney's persistent hamstring issues. Andrew Fifita and Paul Gallen are must-haves. Tinirau Arona has been named 18th man and may emerge as a cheapie option.

Titans: William Zillman, Kevin Gordon, Brad Tighe, Maurice Blair, David Mead, Aidan Sezer, Albert Kelly, Luke Douglas, Beau Falloon, Nate Myles (capt), Greg Bird (capt), David Taylor, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Luke Bailey, Mark Minichiello, Paul Carter, Ryan James, Brad Takairangi, Ben Ridge

Notable absentees: Matt Srama (shoulder, round four)

Comment: Cheapie Paul Carter has been named, but only on the bench given the return of Beau Falloon (hamstring) at starting hooker. Highly fancied prop buy Ryan James (shoulder) has been named 18th man as he continues his comeback from an injury suffered in the pre-season.

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No apologies for Tippett saga: chief

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RETIRING AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou is making no apologies for acting tough against the Adelaide Football Club in the Kurt Tippett saga, despite the club and its fans maintaining the league was heavy-handed.

Standing firm to his "no regret" stance, Demetriou on Tuesday arrived in Adelaide deflecting the responsibility for the controversies at the Adelaide, Melbourne and Essendon football clubs that seriously tainted the AFL's image in the past two years.

MORE: DEMETRIOU TO HAND OVER ADELAIDE OVAL MONEY

Demetriou firmly shifted the blame game in the Tippett saga to the Crows for in 2009 crafting a two-year contract loaded with secret clauses that contradicted the AFL's salary cap and draft policies.

"I don't know why (Crows fans take issue with me) because I was not responsible for what happened with (Tippett's illegal contract)," Demetriou said.

"It is interesting commentary that if you want the AFL to protect the integrity of the game then people have to stop blaming the AFL for what happened to Adelaide ... and to Melbourne (with tanking) and Essendon (with the supplements saga).

"If you don't want the AFL to protect the integrity of the game, then the concept of turning a blind eye to those things will be abhorrent."

Adelaide's executive continues to question the penalties the AFL Commission handed to its club and staff with uneasy comparisons to the crimes and sanctions applied to Melbourne and Essendon.

The Crows in late November 2012 were hit with the loss of draft picks last year, fined $300,000 and the suspension of chief executive Steven Trigg (six months and $50,000 fine), football operations chief Phil Harper (two months) and former football chief John Reid (12 months).

Tippett, who moved to Sydney during the AFL hearings, was banned for 11 games.

The final chapter of the Crows-Tippett saga is still to play out on the field with the first opportunity at Adelaide Oval on Saturday, April 5 — the Crows' first home game at the new Oval against Sydney.

DEMETRIOU: AFL WON'T TAKE AIM AT WEALTHY CLUBS

Melbourne's "tanking" saga — dating back to 2009 — ended in February last year with former coach Dean Bailey banned for 16 weeks while working with the Crows last season, football chief Chris Connolly banned from all football for a year and the club fined $500,000.

Who do you blame for the Kurt Tippett saga?

"I don't know why (they take issue with me) because I was not responsible for what happened with (Tippett's illegal contract)," Demetriou said in Adelaide today.

Who do you think will replace Andrew Demetriou?

The Essendon supplements saga remains still open to sanctions from the recently concluded ASADA investigation.

But the AFL Commission last year stripped the Bombers of their place in the final series, suspended coach James Hird for 12 months, fined the Bombers $2m, banned the club from the first two rounds of last year's and this season's national draft and fined and suspended other key officials.

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Live: Warner ton punishes Proteas

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DAVID Warner has again slaughtered South Africa, becoming the first player to score 500 runs in a three Test series in South Africa.

The brutal left-hander was 105 not out shortly after lunch on the fourth day of the decisive third and final Test, with Australia 2-210, an overall lead of 418.

Graeme Smith had the most low key retirement acknowledgement possible before play when the departing South African captain walked ahead of the team onto his home ground of Newlands and raised his cap to almost empty stands.

MATCH CENTRE: VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS, LIVE STATS AND COMMENTARY

It was the lull before the storm as Warner, resuming on 25, put South Africa to the sword, scoring his second century of the Test and third of the series.

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Warner had 503 runs at an average of 101. Jacques Kallis, with 498 runs against India during 2010-11 previously had the most while Adam Gilchrist was next and the most prolific Australian with 473 runs in 2002.

It followed Warner's 135 from just 152 balls in the first innings to set up this pivotal Test and 115 in the opening Test at Centurion Park to set up the series.

This latest hundred continues Warner's phenomenal summer. He was the leading run scorer during Australia's 5-0 Whitewash of England with 523 runs at 58 and is way out in front during this.

South Africa was already in trouble before Warner took to them again.

When Australia resumed at 0-27 in its second innings with an overall lead of 234 the total was just two runs shy of the best run chase South Africa had ever achieved at Newlands, 2-236 against Australia two and a half years ago.

That was when Australia was bowled out for just 47 in its second innings on a seaming pitch, very different conditions to the dry and dusty dead deck served up for this Test.

Australia's first wicket did not fall until the score was 123 from just 20.2 overs when Chris Rogers was run out for 39.

By then the lead was 330, almost as many as any team had ever chased at Newlands to win. The best was 6-334 by Australia in 2002.

Steyn suffered a hamstring injury in the first innings and given the state of the game it is surprising he was even on the field. He bowled three overs but was murdered by Warner, conceding 23 runs, and was promptly taken off.

Given Australia's desire for quick runs to declare it was a surprise when Alex Doolan, playing just his third Test, appeared at the crease ahead of Shane Watson.

The all-rounder is listed to bat at number six in this match but has spent much of his life being a destructive top order player.

Doolan looks a fine top order batsman but playing just his third Test he slowed the momentum, scoring five from 33 balls before hitting his first boundary and began to flow.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR MATCH CENTRE!

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Fox Footy launches new programs

Footy from all angles on AFL 360 returned to FOX FOOTY on Monday night. Source: Supplied

COLLINGWOOD president Eddie McGuire and Hawthorn legend Dermott Brereton will host a new Sunday night entertainment show — Ed and Derms' Footy Show — on FOX FOOTY this year.

The announcement was one of many changes revealed at the FOX FOOTY season launch, where Jason Dunstall was also confirmed as co-host alongside Gerard Healy and Mike Sheahan, of the most prestigious and long-running AFL program — On The Couch.

Also, Melbourne Football Club senior coach Paul Roos and Essendon senior coach Mark 'Bomber' Thompson will be on the desk together with Gerard Whateley and Mark Robinson each Monday night on AFL 360.

FOX SPORTS CEO, Patrick Delany, told the 200-plus guests that FOX FOOTY is a better place for AFL fans to enjoy their footy for many reasons.

"FOX FOOTY is the fans' destination for everything AFL. Our unparalleled live and high definition coverage, broadcast innovations and unrivalled team of experts take fans closer to the game they love," Delany said.

"After the excitement of the weekend's action on field, our shows feed the passion of fans off-field. From the most serious and thoughtful analysis, to pure fun and entertainment."

Another win for FOX FOOTY is the recruitment of AFL commentator and newsman Sandy Roberts, who will play a major role in the Saturday afternoon AFL coverage.

"I can't wait for the season ahead and working with such a remarkable team of professionals. The greatest game on Earth deserved the greatest channel in the universe and I'm looking forward to being part of this team."

Among the stars in attendance at FOX FOOTY were AFL stars Joel Selwood, Bob Murphy, Leigh Montagna and Corey Enright.

Surfing great Layne Beachley and husband INXS's Kirk Pengilly also joined Melbourne Storm's Cam Smith and Melbourne Rebels' Laurie Weeks and Tom English, alongside Vixens Bianca Chatfield and Cath Cox at the star-studded event.

FULL 2014 PROGRAMMING

SUNDAY

Ed and Derms' Footy Show — NEW SHOW — 7.30pm

MONDAY

AFL 360 — 7.30pm

On The Couch — 8.30pm

Open Mike — 9.30pm

TUESDAY

AFL 360 — 7.30pm

WEDNESDAY

AFL 360 — 7.30pm

Bounce — 8.30pm

THURSDAY

League Teams — 6.30pm

FRIDAY

Friday Night Footy on FOX — from 7.00pm

SATURDAY

Saturday Live on FOX with Sandy Roberts

Mark Robinson and Gerard Whateley will be joined by Paul Roos and Mark Thompson every Monday night. Photo by Martin Philbey Source: Supplied

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NSW in the pink against SA

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SEEING the pink balls isn't an issue, it's what comes next, South Australian stalwart Michael Klinger says.

Klinger says experimental pink balls soften quickly and feel like tennis balls when struck, but he doesn't blame them for SA's batting struggles against NSW in the Sheffield Shield match in Adelaide.

The Redbacks were 8-265 at stumps on Monday's opening day, rescued by a 75-run partnership for the eighth wicket by Callum Ferguson (79 not out) and Adam Zampa (48).

NSW spinner Steve O'Keefe claimed 4-75 with paceman Josh Hazlewood taking two wickets and fe

Stephen O'Keefe is cock-a-hoop after taking a South Australian wicket at Adelaide Oval. Source: Getty Images

llow quicks Doug Bollinger and Trent Copeland one apiece.

The bulk of SA's runs came early and then late from the second new ball - they mustered just 52 runs from 31 overs when the ball softened in the middle session.

Veteran opener Klinger, who made 37, reckons when soft, the pink balls make scoring difficult.

"Once you're out there, you see a ball coming at you and, as a batter, you just try and make good decisions," Klinger said. "The biggest difference is that once it gets softer, it doesn't come off the bat as well.

Callum Ferguson punches a drive off the backfoot during his stand with Adam Zampa. Source: Getty Images

"A lot of shots off the middle of the bat, it feels like a tennis ball ... it's a bit softer and guys are struggling to hit the ball through the field." But Klinger said the pink ball can't excuse SA for slumping to 7-165 before Ferguson and Zampa's saving stand.

O'Keefe captured three quick-fire wickets as SA lost 3-5 in a mid-order collapse.

The pink ball looking a little beaten out of shape, Source: News Corp Australia

The crafty left-armer bowled Klinger and, next ball, had the Shield's second-highest run-scorer Tom Cooper caught behind for a golden duck - though the ball appeared to flick Cooper's pad, not bat.

O'Keefe then removed former Victorian allrounder Andrew McDonald, making his Shield debut for SA, for 15 as the home side sagged to 4-80.

Wickets steadily fell before Ferguson was joined by Zampa, who cracked his highest first-class score as the pair accelerated against the second new ball.

Zampa smacked five fours and a six in his 60-ball innings while Ferguson, once touted as a Test prospect, took his Shield average this season beyond 76 with a classy unbeaten knock.

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Davies in running for wing spot

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WING flyer Rod Davies is being sized up for a sudden return to pep up the Reds attack for Friday night's Suncorp Stadium homecoming.

Beating South Africa's dangerous Cheetahs in the only home game of their opening five rounds has always been crucial but now even more so.

Last weekend's ordinary display in Queensland's worst loss to NSW in 20 years triggered plenty of blunt self-examination on Monday to find a fix.

The Reds were at full-strength against the Waratahs, so there is no cavalry of returning trumps coming to the rescue.

The Reds player can't hide their feelings after yet another Waratahs try at ANZ Stadium last Saturday. Source: Getty Images

After a rare, muted performance, high-achieving prop James Slipper and others in the pack just have to play far better.

Mike Harris (ankle) ran at training on Monday but how he pulls up a day later will determine whether he slots back in at inside centre for Anthony Faingaa.

Davies is applying pressure for a return at the expense of Dom Shipperley.

Davies tries to slip between two defenders in a trial match between the Reds and Chiefs. Source: News Limited

Davies has sharpened up since returning from a knee reconstruction with two trials and two encouraging outings for the Reds A team.

He first showed his toughness by absorbing some crunching hits while his 50m try in last Sunday's 22-19 A-team win over Fiji Warriors was a typical show of his pace.

That X-factor generated five tries during an April-May flurry for Queensland last year.

Graham warned that the Cheetahs posed an even bigger threat coming off a chastening loss to the Melbourne Rebels last Friday.

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"The Cheetahs have shown they are innovators with quick taps, chips kicks and their ball-movement, so you always have to wary," Graham said.

That is summed up in gifted Springbok Willie le Roux, an explosive package at fullback or wing when at the heart of his team's run to the play-offs last year.

"It was a very disappointing outcome against NSW but with a short turnaround you have to analyse and move on quickly to the next game," Graham said.

"We didn't win the collisions against NSW and that's obviously an area we have to improve on."

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Nothing sinister has been picked up in scans on the ankle of NSW matchwinner Israel Folau, who left the field for the final 11 minutes against the Reds.

Folau said he had time to rest the ankle with this weekend's bye and would be ready to roll in the big derby against the ACT Brumbies in Canberra on Saturday week.

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Disgruntled RBB explains protest

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WESTERN Sydney Wanderers' active support group, the Red and Black Bloc, have released a strongly worded statement explaining their silent protest in Sunday's 2-0 loss to Newcastle.

The RBB claims that despite media reports, the protest - in which fans in the active bays refused to chant during the match - was not linked to the repercussions of flare use during Wednesday's Asian Champions League match against Ulsan Hyundai at Pirtek Stadium.

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The RBB says an email sent by the club to members over the incident was "divisive, and generalising in its condemnation of the RBB as a whole".

The email from the club outlined the banning of musical instruments, banners and fence posters for fans in the active support areas.

"The club is intentionally trying to divide us, the fans, by pitting the active and non-active supporters against each other. This is a cheap publicity stunt to show that the club is doing something, and to satisfy the media and FFA alike," the statement continued.

A flare is ignited amongst the Wanderers fans during the AFC match. Source: Getty Images

The 1400-word statement also criticised the treatment of fans by security and the club's decision to ban a pre-approved banner that read: "Stand United, Never Divided".

"Countless hours and money has been spent by the RBB to make this the best active supporter group in Australia," the RBB's statement read.

"Unlike the club, the team and supporters are our interest, not the bottom line.

"The unity of our fans, the passionate support and the success of our team are our priority."

Read the Red and Black Bloc's full statement on their Facebook page.

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