Champ signs off with historic win

Unchain My Heart wins the Andrew Ramsden Stakes at Flemington. Source: Vince Caligiuri / Getty Images

UNCHAIN My Heart ended her racing career with a historic farewell win when she became the first mare in history to win successive Andrew Ramsden Stakes.

The David Hayes trained mare will be sold at next month's Gold Coast Magic Millions broodmare sales.

"That's a really good way for her to finish her career with a second Andrew Ramsden Stakes," Hayes said.

Syndicator Joe O'Neill from Prime Thoroughbreds said it was the perfect way for Unchain My Heart to end her racing career.

"She's a rising eight-year-old mare and I'm sure she'll find a good home," O'Neill said.

O'Neill purchased Unchain My Heart from a paddock in Mittagong for $47,500 as a yearling.

Yesterday was her tenth win and took her earnings to $568,520.

Hayes said Unchain My Heart was suited by the firmer track.

Unchain My Heart was the first horse to win successive Andrew Ramsden Stakes since Pantani achieved the feat in 2004 and 2005.

Hayes said Dwayne Dunn, who rode her last year had the option of riding her on Saturday but chose to ride the well-backed favourite Ominous.

Ominous looked the likely winner halfway up the straight but Dunn said he didn't run the 3200m out.

Craig Newitt said he was confident throughout the run knowing Unchain My Heart had travelled well and had a great turn of foot.

Unchain My Heart ($7.50) defeated Vatuvei ($31) by two and a half lengths with Gotta Take Care ($8) a short head away third.

It was the second leg of a winning double for Hayes, as he won the opening event with two-year-old colt Forgive And Forget.

Hayes stamped him as a potential Caulfield Guineas prospect after his win.

And Dwayne Dunn echoed those thoughts on dismounting when he also labelled him a very nice prospect.

Dunn said Forgive And Forget's potential was untapped and he would be a much better horse over 1400m to 1600m.

Hayes wasn't surprised by Forgive And Forget's win as he said he had trialled well.

Hayes will spell him immediately for the spring.

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Live: UEFA Champions League final

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JOIN us for live coverage of the UEFA Champions League final between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid from Lisbon, starting at 4.45am AEST.

Cristiano Ronaldo seems certain to be fit to lead Real Madrid's attack but there are doubts over his strike partner Karim Benzema and defender Pepe.

Atletico has injury concerns about its own star forward, Brazilian-born Spain international Diego Costa, who had a horse placenta treatment on his right thigh this week.

Real defender Sergio Ramos said he hoped all the best players lined up Saturday.

For Real, attacking midfielder Isco could be asked to replace Benzema, whose France teammate Raphael Varane is a likely deputy for Pepe.

Ancelotti is deprived of holding midfielder Xabi Alonso who is suspended, and Germany's Sami Khedira could start just two weeks after returning from a six-month absence due to a knee injury.

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Gritty Broncos edge out Tigers

Broncos' Ben Hunt celebrates Corey Oates's second try for Brisbane. Source: Renee McKay / Getty Images

BRISBANE have edged out Wests Tigers 16-14 in a closely fought encounter at Campbelltown Stadium.

In what could best be called a slow-burner, the game didn't spark into life until the 60 minute mark, with the Broncos holding a slim six point lead after an uneventful first half.

The Tigers battled their way back into the game after the restart, with youngster Luke Brooks at the heart of much of the action for the Sydney team.

BRISBANE FANS: RATE THE BRONCOS

But too many errors from the home side allowed Brisbane to take control, as Corey Oates scored his second try of the night with just three minutes left to play.

BRISBANE 16 (C Oates 2 tries B Hunt 4 goals) bt WESTS TIGERS 14 (L Brooks B Thompson tries P Richards 3 goals) at Campbelltown Sports Stadium. Referee: Gavin Badger, Gavin Reynolds. Crowd: 16,511.

More to come ...

CLICK HERE FOR THE LIVE MATCH CENTRE.

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Force grind out gritty win over Lions

Force winger Nick Cummins attempts to break from a tackle by Coenie van Wyk and Deon van Rensburg. Source: Paul Kane / Getty Images

THE Western Force have ground their way to a 29-19 win over the Lions to climb to second in the Australian conference.

Match Centre: Live scores, stats, video highlights

Skipper Matt Hodgson scored two tries including the Force's fourth as they claimed a bonus point to leapfrog the Brumbies.

The victory was a club record eight for the season.

WESTERN FORCE 29 (Matt Hodgson 2, Jayden Hayward, Chris Tuatara-Morrison tries Hayward 2, Sias Ebersohn cons Ebersohn pen) bt LIONS 19 (Elton Jantjies try Marnitz Boshoff con 4 pens) at nib Stadium. Referee: Steve R. Walsh. Crowd: 11,587.

Relive all the action from nib Stadium in our match blog below

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Tahs flick switch to sting Rebels

Rob Horne had another strong game for the Tahs on the wing. Source: Scott Barbour / Getty Images

NSW Waratahs produced another fine attacking display to record a bonus-point victory over the Rebels on Friday night and stay on track for the playoffs.

The Tahs scored six tries to one in a comprehensive 41-19 win at AAMI Park, with the Rebels unable to cope with their high-octane play.

Rob Horne and Adam Ashley-Cooper crossed in the first half before Michael Hooper, Kurtley Beale, Israel Folau and Brendan McKibbin scored after the break.

The Rebels' only try came through winger Telusa Veainu.

The Waratahs now sit in second spot overall and lead the Aussie conference by four points from the Brumbies, who play overnight in South Africa.

Relive all the action from our live blog below and check out Match Centre for stats and video!

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Live: Cats running rampant over Roos

Brent Harvey and Joel Selwood clash in the second quarter. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

A BLISTERING first half has Geelong well placed against North Melbourne at Simonds Stadium.

Looking to defy the Perth curse, the Cats have been full of running and lead 10.9 (69) to 5.4 (34).

The Kangaroos haven't been able to get near the ball but are doing just enough to stay in touch.

FOLLOW THE ACTION AND JOIN THE CONVERSATION IN OUR LIVE CHAT

Geelong full forward Tom Hawkins is in top form and his kicked three goals while setting up several others for his teammates.

James Kelly and Jimmy Bartel are leading with way for the Cats with 23 and 17 touches respectively.

Levi Greenwood and Brent Harvey have 15 possessions each while Lindsay Thomas has two goals.

Both teams have been hit by early injuries.

Geelong lost key defender Tom Lonergan to concussion and he was subbed out for Mark Blicavs.

Kangaroos defender Joel Tippett suffered a suspected torn pectoral muscle with Ryan Bastinac poised to replce him.

GEELONG v NORTH MELBOURNE

Friday 23 May at Simonds Stadium, 7.50pm (EST)

CATS

B: J.Rivers, T.Lonergan, C.Enright

HB: A.Mackie, H.Taylor, C.Guthrie

C: M.Blicavs, J.Selwood, M.Duncan

HF: T.Varcoe, H.McIntosh, M.Stokes

F: J.Murdoch, T.Hawkins, J.Bartel

Foll: D.Simpson, J.Kelly, G.Horlin-Smith

I/C: J.Bews, J.Sheringham, S.Motlop, J.Stringer

Emg: T.Hunt, J.Jansen, J.Walker

INS: M.Stokes, J.Stringer

OUTS S.Johnson (suspended), T.Hunt

KANGAROOS

B: L.McDonald, J.Tippett, L.Hansen

HB: N.Dal Santo, S.Thompson, L.Greenwood

C: S.Gibson, A.Swallow, R.Nahas

HF: L.Thomas, A.Black, L.Adams

F: M.Daw, D.Petrie, B.Harvey

Foll: T.Goldstein, J.Ziebell, B.Cunnington

I/C: R.Bastinac, M.Firrito, S.Atley, S.Wright

Emg: L.Anthony, S.McMahon, M.Wood

INS: M.Firrito

OUTS S.McMahon

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How Robbie Gray got up off his knees

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ROBBIE Gray has four scars on his right knee ... and, significantly, not one on his mind.

There is a long cut the surgeons made two years ago to rebuild the anterior cruciate ligament. There is a another on the opposite side of the knee where they cut to fix the lateral ligament. And there are two dots that mark the keyhole surgery that saved a promising football career.

They are tributes to modern medicine ... and a player's determination to follow his dream.

Sixty years ago a knee injury ended Hall of Fame legend John Coleman's career because there was no surgery to consider. Forty years ago another Hall of Fame legend, Barrie Robran, was one of the "guinea pigs" as surgeons started repairing ruptured knees. Both had unfulfilled football careers.

Gray is on the verge of his 100th AFL game ... and the promise of a player who is labelled the "blue-collar' Gary Ablett is once again unfolding for Port Adelaide's grand gamebreaker. But it has been some challenge to get to this point - and more proof of Power coach Ken Hinkley's theme that hard work brings richly deserved rewards.

It also is a story of belief.

Gray, a fourth-round draftee in 2006, broke into the Power's line-up against Hawthorn at Football Park on June 3, 2007 - that heady season of remarkable promise at Alberton. At the end of the 2011 campaign, Gray finally managed a full 22-game season after four years of stop-start football.

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In 2007, it was two games lost to a hip injury; five to a calf complaint; in 2008, two to a groin injury; five to an ankle sprain; in 2009, one to a thigh injury and then one to appendicitis; and in 2010 it was nine games lost to two rips of a hamstring.

And then there was game No. 70 on April 21 against Collingwood at Etihad Stadium. With 32 seconds to go in a game already lost, Gray's right knee buckled as he landed while trying to nurse a one-handed mark on the boundary line.

Ligaments were torn apart and the leg bones at the knee joint were bruised.

"There was a fair bit going on," Gray says while pointing to the scars on his right knee.

Today, Gray is making up for lost time.

His fellow graduates from the Power's Class of 2007 - captain Travis Boak and Justin Westhoff - are approaching their 150th AFL game when Gray is tonight to play his 99th.

"You take it for granted early in your career," Gray said.

"I learned a lot in my year off, particularly about my body - little things about diet, hard work, looking after your body.

"I sat in the coach's box a fair bit in that year off.

"But I learned more off field about how good your preparation has to be - and how it gives you the best possible chance to perform.

"I learned more about myself off the field than what I was seeing in the coach's box about the game on the field.

"(On reflection) I had a lot of room for improvement. And after being out for so long, I wanted to make sure that I did everything right to make the most of my opportunity if I did come back from the knee injury."

Gray's comeback - that was not always smooth, particularly during Christmas 2012 when he had to pull back from his training program to ease pain in the right knee - was perfectly timed with fitness coach Darren Burgess' return to Alberton after his tenure in world soccer.

"Darren has had a fairly big influence - particularly with his strong views," Gray said. "And when those changes make you feel good, you want to keep them going.

"I've worked at getting my weight right (dropping the count from 87 kilograms to 84). I've continued doing the things that have allowed me to train consistently during the week and get on the park at weekends."

Gray tonight played his 29th consecutive game. It is his longest run in AFL football.

No less important to Gray is the form he has offered while his football-alert mind can confidently rely on a previously "fragile" body.

"I've been pretty happy with the start to the season," Gray said.

"It is probably the most consistent football I have been able to play ... but it is only eight games in - and it is a long season with plenty of work to do as a group."

It has taken Gray eight years in the AFL system to find that nirvana where personal form and team success combine to make the game fun.

"Being part of a team that is winning games of footy has made it really enjoyable," Gray said. "As it was last year. Having that year on the sidelines you realise how much you miss (football and being part of a team)."

Robbie Gray standing on Hummock Hill in Whyalla. He doesn't welcome comparisons to Gold Coast superstar Gary Ablett. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: News Corp Australia

ROBBIE'S IN GAZZA'S SHADOW AGAIN

ONCE again Robbie Gray sits in Gary Ablett's shadow ... and in comparison with the Brownlow Medallist.

Last week - as it became Chad Wingard's moment to bask in the limelight after his five-goal carve-up of the Fremantle defence - Gray emerged as Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley's hero in the 18-point against the Dockers in the voting for the AFL Coaches Association "champion player" award.

The best-afield rating placed Gray second to Ablett on the coaches' leaderboard at the end of round eight. And for Gray that is too close for his name to be alongside the image of the Gold Coast captain.

As much as the comparisons between Gray and Ablett are meant to flatter, they have not allowed Gray to do as every AFL player wants - make his own name.

"No, probably not," answers Gray when asked if he has enjoyed being tagged with Ablett's image.

"Gary is probably the greatest player ever in this game. Or top three. So (the comparison) is probably not quite on the mark.

"Everyone wants to make their own name for themselves. That is no different for me."

Gray is making his own mark this season. His influence in matches this season is highlighted in the statistics that matter for how they contribute to the Power's team game. At Alberton, the forward-midfielder ranks fourth in disposals (187), fifth in marks (44), fourth for goals (13) and fourth in the ratings points for fantasy leagues. He has set up eight goals for his team-mates. Almost half his disposals count is made up of Hinkley's much-admired contested possessions.

With all fingers crossed at Alberton, Gray next week - against Melbourne at Alice Springs - will play his 100th AFL game. As a milestone, it will be a significant achievement for one of the Power's most-popular players who has battled more than his fair share of injury curses. It will be celebrated and acknowledged that way by Port.

Regardless of what comparisons are made at the end of Gray's career, the No. 55 call in the AFL's 2006 national draft will appreciate how working through the darkest hours with injury have made him stronger.

"Before (the right-knee injury in 2011) I felt I'd had a lot of injury problems early in my career and I'd not got the best out of myself," Gray said.

"So I wanted to get back and prove to myself that I could play at this level - and play consistent footy."

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Live NRL: Bulldogs v Roosters

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FRIDAY Night Football starts the weekend in style as the Bulldogs host the Roosters at ANZ Stadium.

The Bulldogs are two points clear at the top of the ladder after 10 round and looking like the hardest team to beat in the competition. The reigning premiers haven't quite been able to find top gear and are languishing just outside the eight.

With both teams missing a host of stars to State of Origin, if ever something unexpected is going to happen, now's the time.

CLICK HERE FOR LIVE STATS AND INFO OR FOLLOW THE BLOG BELOW

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Too brave for their own good?

Kangaroo Jack Ziebell doesn't hesitate when it's his turn to go. Source: George Salpigtidis / News Limited

THE collision midfielder is in danger of losing his position in our game.

He's required to temper his game more so than ever before. Before they become extinct and hold a title in the past, such as a utility, a full-forward or heaven forbid a first rover, here's a look at the best midfield warriors in the game.

They're the players who are too brave for their own good. They lead with their head and consider danger something someone else feels. They collect so many stitch marks on their heads, the statistics sheet has a column for it.

Within our once understood rules, they will, by those very rules crash you, bash you, bruise you and run over you.

And they cannot understand why you won't do it back. Most likely, they will feel insulted if you don't.

HOW TO GET FANS BACK TO THE FOOTY

Even though they will inflict themselves upon the opposition, they are also willing to hang onto the ball long enough for them to become the target, as long as they can identify the right teammate to pass the ball to. And history shows us that the longer you hang on to the ball the better the "lock on" target you become.

They are the essence of what our sport is proud to possess. In another time and in another theatre, they would be the first over the top on the Western Front. They are the type of warrior that makes us proud to love this sport.

JOEL SELWOOD

NOT only is he brilliant at his craft, but, if will power was quantifiable, he is the Don Bradman of desire.

In the Cats and Hawks first meeting last season, Brendan Whitecross clouted him. He should have been removed from the field for his own safety, but he chose to stay on and lead his team to victory like the banged up warrior that he was on that occasion. The kicker was, he played with clarity and ferocity right until the very end.

CONTESTED BALL WORRY FOR CATS

Recently against Richmond with his head split open he kicked a clutch goal when needed. Very few players could have barged their way through that traffic.

Tonight he will physically lead the battle charge against a young group of Shinboners that boast hard heads like Ziebell and Cunnington.

Selwood is not a huge midfielder and he is not overly quick by league standards. But what he is incredibly brilliant at is hunting up the ball in the second and third contest after his initial play.

If you watch him tonight, you will see him attend the centre bounce and thereafter be taken down to the ground. And then somehow miraculously he can and will be seen to follow his own spillage ball out of the centre square. He hunts the ball with a relentless fury better than any other player in the competition.

Geelong's Joel Selwood gathers the ball with Fremantle's Matt de Boer and Nick Suban on his tail. Source: News Corp Australia

LUKE HODGE

HE has enough class by foot to be a pure "outside" player. He just happens to have a wrecking ball attitude. And when it's his turn, he takes what is coming.

Former Cat Cameron Mooney said that in the 2008 G.F. he kept telling Hodge he was going to keep putting his knee through Hodges rib cage when he dropped back loose in defence. Hodge apparently kept smiling and Moon's kept kneeing him in the marking contest. Mooney has a world full of admiration for the man that helped ruin his dream for that day.

Round 6: Richmond v Hawthorn MCG. April 27th 2014. Luke Hodge gets tackled high by Nathan Gordon. Picture: Colleen Petch. Source: News Corp Australia

CALLAN WARD

HE is a half-step behind most of the others for polish. But he is a heads down over the ball in the middle of the pack type player. He doesn't have too many scalps on his mantelpiece. He won't go out there and actively "hunt to hurt" an opposition player. But he is insanely brave. He has tunnel vision for the ball and little care for whatever is in the vicinity. This translates to having little care for his own safety.

His teammates past and present share a laugh about just how brave he is. They laugh at the old adage that "everyone has fear, it is how you master it." They actually don't believe he is born with the good common sense to recognise fear when it should be present.

LENNY HAYES

TIME has turned against Lenny and although he is no longer a bona fide A-grader, he once was not too long ago.

One look at how straight his nose is, or rather isn't, should tell you that Hayes frequently has put his head over the ball and into small spaces that a human head shouldn't fit. He was uncompromising in his attack on the ball and he was the epitome' of a collision midfielder.

Even though Hayes has a relatively quiet demeanour, he is a natural on-field leader by way of actions.

LUKE BALL

BALL is a warrior. Like Hayes, age has taken him down the ratings list of effective midfielders. He plays fourth fiddle in Collingwood's best midfield team these days and that could be fifth soon with Steele Sidebottom's development.

But he was once a bona fide star. And there was also a time, a half-a-season in fact when his head took more hits than an anvil. He was a champion. And by all rights he should be a little scrambled and not the erudite elder footballing statesman he is when questioned about any matter to do with football.

Luke Ball is as hard as they come. Picture: Simon Cross Source: News Corp Australia

HARD BREED EVOLVES — The new kids on the block

DAN HANNEBERY

No real scalps to speak of, except for the controversial bump on Hurley, but for an elite user of the ball he is as brave as they come. See the 2012 Grand Final contest with David Hale for proof.

RORY SLOANE

Four quarters against Sloane is apparently like being hammered for the same time. He will go anywhere and do anything to win the ball. And that includes getting air-born to lay tackles.

TOM ROCKLIFF

Rockliff has a very definite nasty streak. It is rare in this day and age. But he takes a backward step to no one. And he is an incredibly consistent ball winner.

NATHAN FYFE

An uncompromising attack on the footy and opposition has already landed Fyfe in hot water. But his bravery in the air is limitless.

JACK ZIEBELL

He was suspended on two separate occasions last year for his attack on the opposition. More untidy than malicious, he has had to mould his ways to coincide with the tightening rules of the day. And he will stand in line when it is his turn to face the music.

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Riewoldt survives coach’s wrath

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RICHMOND star Jack Riewoldt has survived the axe despite copping a broadside from coach Damien Hardwick.

Could Jack be the sub this week? Herald Sun cartoonist Macca thinks so! Source: Supplied

The 16th-placed Tigers didn't react savagely at the selection table despite last week's shock loss to Melbourne, dropping just youngster Sam Lloyd for Saturday's clash with Greater Western Sydney at Spotless Stadium.

Matt Thomas, Dylan Grimes and Matt Dea were called up to fill the holes left by Lloyd and injured pair Nick Vlastuin and David Astbury.

Riewoldt could be seen to have been lucky to be playing after Hardwick's comments before training.

The coach said the key forward had "let our family down" by making comments about the team's game plan.

After days of intense scrutiny, Riewoldt reignited speculation about the Tigers' season on Wednesday by saying the Tigers had tried — and failed — to replicate premier Hawthorn's short-kicking style.

"Unfortunately we went one way with our game, and the game went the other way, really," Riewoldt said.

Hardwick hit back on Thursday, criticising Riewoldt for going "outside the boundaries" of the club.

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"We caught up with him this morning and removed his foot from his mouth and my foot from his a---," Hardwick said.

"We're disappointed, those comments don't help. He probably was stumbling along and kept getting himself deeper and deeper in to trouble."

Riewoldt took to Twitter last night and conceded he spoke out of school.

"Poor choice of words by me yesterday and poor timing. I've copped my right whack and moved on, can't wait to play this weekend," he tweeted.

The Tigers have endured a week of harsh criticism after last weekend's loss to Melbourne left them with a 2-6 record.

Asked if Riewoldt's comments about trying to replicate the Hawks' game plan were on the money, Hardwick said: "If we are we're not doing it overly well, are we?"

"Our game plan is our game plan, it's been the same for about three to four years and we have subtle changes with that.

"From our point of view some things have worked and some things haven't. We constantly reassess, but the overall philosophy stays the same."

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Hardwick conceded the club had worked its way in to a "very bad form slump", even going as far to say that it was playing "boring" footy.

In his fifth season at the helm, Hardwick said it was the toughest period he had experienced.

"It was never always going to be a linear progression," he said.

"We've improved every year, but there was always going to be a bump in the road at some stage.

"Funnily enough you find out a little bit about yourself and your footy club at that stage. That challenge is for us now — we've just got to make sure we work through it."

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Wallabies in Waiting: centres

Matt Toomua (R) is likely to be a first-choice at No.12. Source: Brett Costello / News Limited

THE Wallabies' Test series against France is just over two weeks away, and Ewen McKenzie has already named a 32-man squad in preparation for what looms as a tough three Tests.

McKenzie on Thursday revealed the squad he believes can get the job done against France but players still have a chance to push their claims for a spot in the 23 through Super Rugby.

But who deserves to make the cut?

The team from Rugby HQ is breaking down the likely team position by position, before giving you — the fans — the chance to make the final calls on selection.

Each week our team of rugby experts will nominate the players they think deserve to be in the running for a certain position before turning the vote over to you at foxsports.com.au

This week it's the centres. Cast your vote below!

Who should play in the centres for the Wallabies?

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Rogers’ natural high after finding rainbow

Australia's Michael Rogers celebrates on podium after winning the 11th stage of the Giro d'Italia. Source: Marco Alpozzi / AP

MICHAEL Rogers described it as like "a rainbow at the end of a tunnel".

Successfully fighting back from the dead — figuratively speaking — is always an emotional experience, and the veteran Australian road cyclist's unexpected victory in stage 11 of the Giro d'Italia on was no exception.

It came a month after he awoke from the nightmare of a positive drug test that threatened to kill off his long and successful career.

Cycling's controlling body, the UCI, lifted the indefinite ban imposed after Rogers tested positive to the cattle drug clenbuterol after winning the Japan Cup in October.

In consultation with the World Anti-Doping Agency, the UCI said there was a "significant possibility" he had eaten contaminated meat in China before racing in Japan, which was always what Rogers insisted must have occurred.

Rogers, 34, known as a hardworking team player, is a popular figure in the peloton, so there was widespread applause when he carried the Tinkoff-Saxo colours across the line 10 seconds ahead of the pack at the end of the 249km journey from Collecchio to Savona.

With Cadel Evans protecting his 57sec lead — and one of his specialties, a time-trial, to follow — the punters on social media are now referring to the "Giro d'Australia".

The Australian team Orica-GreenEDGE has won three stages and kept young sprinter Michael Matthews in the leader's jersey for six days. Evans, the only other rider since day two to have worn it, remains a warm favourite to become the first Australian to win the race.

Rogers is a triple world champion in the time-trial but this was his first stage victory in any of the three Grand Tours.

"It only took 12 years to win a stage of a Grand Tour. Hope it doesn't take another 12 to win again," he tweeted.

His relief at being back on the bike shone through in an emotional interview posted on cyclingnews.com.

"It's been a difficult period, but there is always light at the end of the tunnel. There are always difficult moments in life but today I can see a rainbow," he said.

"I tried to live my life as a rider but I had a lot of anger at first. We realised that didn't help so I kept my head down. I kept training at 100 per cent even though I was unable to race."

Rogers would not say how much his legal battle had cost him, but it had been worth it.

His Tinkoff teammate Alberto Contador — the best cyclist in the world at the time — was stripped of one of his three Tour de France wins when he tested positive to the same drug.

The Rogers case could become a landmark in the sports doping fight because it is now clear authorities accept the controversial substance can cause trouble for innocent athletes. The question is, what are they going to do about it?

Apart from warning riders not to eat meat in countries such as China and Mexico, where it is used on livestock, the UCI has said only that it will continue to monitor the situation case by case.

ron.reed@news.com.au

Twitter: @Reedrw

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Hogan not giving up on debut

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BOOM Melbourne youngster Jesse Hogan has not given up hope of making his highly-anticipated AFL debut this year, despite being placed on the Demon's long-term injury list.

The power forward broke down with stress fractures in his back on the eve of Round 1 and suffered a setback last month when he tried to resume training.

But Hogan, 19, is expected to see a specialist this week and when given the all-clear will start running again.

Hogan is fresh from two weeks at home in Perth and could be get a start around Round 17 or 18.

But the Dees will maintain their ultraconservative approach on the man they secured through the 2012 mini-draft and are confident once fit again the issue will no longer plague him.

It is believed Hogan is fighting stress reactions in more than one bone in his lower back, a condition which can affect fast bowlers in cricket.

Hogan won the Casey Scorpions' best-and-fairest last year, booting 39.21 from 15 appearances for the Dees' VFL affiliate.

He played one NAB Challenge match — against Geelong in Alice Springs — which is where his back injury originated.

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McIlroy calls off wedding to Wozniacki

Former world No. 1 golfer Rory McIlroy has broken off his engagement to tennis star Caroline Wozniacki. Source: Jan Kruger / Getty Images

Former world No.1 golfer Rory McIlroy on Wednesday announced he had broken off his engagement to Danish tennis player Caroline Wozniacki only days after sending out the wedding invitations.

The 25-year-old Northern Irishman and two-time major champion said the issuing of the invitations had made him aware that he was not ready for marriage.

"There is no right way to end a relationship that has been so important to two people," he explained through a statement issued by his Dublin-based communications consultants.

"The problem is mine," McIlroy said.

"The wedding invitations issued at the weekend made me realise that I wasn't ready for all that marriage entails.

"I wish Caroline all the happiness she deserves and thank her for the great times we've had. I will not be saying anything more about our relationship in any setting."

Wozniacki is a former world No.1 on the WTA tour but sits 14th in the latest women's rankings.

McIlroy has dropped to 10th in the latest men's golf rankings.

Rory McIlroy and Caroline Wozniacki at the Olympic Village in London in 2012. Source: Getty Images

The golden sporting couple announced their short-lived engagement last New Year's Eve.

They posted pictures of themselves on Twitter with a diamond ring.

"Happy New Year everyone! I have a feeling it's going to be a great year!! My first victory of 2014 #shesaidyes!!" McIlroy wrote.

Wozniacki posted: "Happy New Year everyone! Rory and I started 2014 with a bang! ... I said YES !"

The engagement came after rumours of a split in 2013.

McIlroy captured his first major title at the 2011 US Open and added another at the 2012 PGA Championship.

Wozniacki, 23, still seeks her first grand slam title, her deepest run in a major being to the 2009 US Open final.

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Mile’s armband, but Roos share leaders

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SHOULDER to shoulder they sat, and the message was unmistakable. Mile Jedinak is the new captain of the Socceroos, and will cherish the honour, but this is a team that will be run as a team, by a team.

At the table sat Ange Postecoglou flanked by the man he has confirmed as skipper, but also by vice-captains Tim Cahill and Mark Bresciano, the senior lieutenants in this new-look, and newly official, leadership group.

Wednesday was another key stage in Postecoglou's attempts to regrow the Socceroos' culture, and to bind the senior players into that. For all that he emphasised Jedinak's outstanding qualities as the team's first among equals, so the coach talked up the experience and team wisdom that Cahill and Bresciano can be expected to supply.

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"I tend to lead by example," Jedinak said of his leadership style, and his will be an understated captaincy where actions set the tone, rather than any great oratory. Which is not to say the Crystal Palace captain is not an articulate and highly impressive talker, ready to engage and debate any number of issues.

But it's hard to imagine an industry springing up around a Jedinak captaincy, nor a cult of personality. "It's not a question of leaning on anyone," he said when asked about making use of his vice-captains. "We're in this together."

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What Postecoglou wants is to avoid the cliques and jealousy, the circus around certain individuals, that have appeared in the past. The experience of the senior trio is huge, and now they have a clearly defined way to relay the lessons of that to what is predominantly a youthful squad.

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In their various ways the three offer a variety of styles, from Cahill's ebullience to Bresciano's slow-spoken determination. All three know what the pressures of a World Cup camp look and feel like; all three have faced huge obstacles at various points in their careers and surmounted them.

It's that determination and colleigality that Postecoglou has sought to reknit among the playing group. If morale was shot to pieces by the defeats to Brazil and France that cost Holger Osieck his job, now there is a belief that whatever the end result, the side will not go down without a fight.

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Lean trot not all Trav’s fault: Dad

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DAVID Cloke says his son's form slump is partly due to the club's ball movement and stoppage problems.

David Cloke has his thoughts on son Travis's form. Source: Getty Images

Travis Cloke, 27, has been kept goal-less in four of his eight matches and is averaging less than six marks a game for the first time since 2006.

David Cloke acknowledged his son "would like to be playing better at the moment" but said he suffered from a lack of midfield supply in their last loss to Adelaide.

"When you get the ball out of the centre quick and have first use, opposition sides don't have the time to get the players back (to defend)," Cloke said.

"What was the clearances last week? 50 to low 30s (33) or something like that? That's a smashing, that's an absolute smashing.

"That's what they have got to do, they've got to get more use from clearances."

TRAV CLOSE TO 'TEARING GAME APART'

The Pies average four less clearances than the opposition per game this season, ranked 14th in the AFL, according to Champion Data.

Cloke is known to be having pain relief for a nagging knee problem but has retained the club's strong backing ahead of Saturday's clash against West Coast at the MCG.

David Cloke said the return of some speedy line breakers would help the Pies find more space up forward.

"Their game plan is like a lot of the sides and being a lot more defensively (minded), so they're not running the ball into the forward line quickly and giving him more opportunities one out," he said.

GRUNDY A RISING STAR SMOKEY?

Travis Cloke at training this week. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

"Sides will be trying in the second half of the year to try and open up a bit more.

"Probably Collingwood's lack of players to run the ball, with (Ben) Sinclair out and Marley Williams just coming back, (Paul) Seedsman not playing.

"Those sort of players that run and carry and break the lines a bit (will help)."

HEY TRAV, GET ON YA BIKE

David Cloke, who played 333 games at Richmond and Collingwood, helped broker his son's last contract in 2012 worth almost $4 million over five years.

David Cloke said his son was still performing a selfless team role.

Despite the goal drought, Travis's score assists (0.6 to 0.9) and tackles (1.3 to 1.8) have gone up on last season.

David Cloke says his son isn't entirely to blame for his sub-par form. Source: Supplied

"He's probably having a (lean) trot, but he is working within what he has got to do within the team and he is always puts the team first above himself," David Cloke said.

"He could be like (what) other players do and other clubs and at Collingwood at different times and if they're struggling they go out there and worry about themselves, but he doesn't do that.

"Personally, I think he probably needs to come up the ground a bit, to give him relief from being deep in the forward line.

"The way they are sort of lining up, they want him deep so that's what he does and he will put the team first."

Cloke's forward line co-pilot, Ben Reid, is out with a calf problem but David Cloke said he was worried about the big man's achilles.

"I don't think they are budgeting on Ben Reid being back for a while, from what I hear," Cloke said.

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NRL SuperCoach teams analysis - Rd 11

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SUPERCOACHES have received some respite on the toughest week of the season so far, with a host of good buys emerging from the round 11 and Origin team announcements.

A bevy of rookies and cheapies were named, providing plenty of opportunities for SuperCoaches who are battling to field full sides this week given six teams are on the bye and Origin players out.

Highlights included:

• PAUL Carter was again named starting lock for the Titans. He now appears a strong chance to keep up his three game average of 62 given the continued absence of Greg Bird (suspension, round 13), Ashley Harrison (neck, round 17) and Nate Myles (Origin);

Paul Carter has impressed so far in the NRL. Source: Supplied

• EARLY-season buy Moses Mbye was finally named for his second match of the year, with the star youngster to play halfback at the Bulldogs in place of Trent Hodkinson (NSW);

• DAVID Fifita emerged as a cheapie option after scoring a bench spot at the Sharks in the absence of Anthony Tupou (knee, indefinite), Luke Lewis and Paul Gallen (both NSW)

• PRE-SEASON fancy Mitchell Cornish was named to debut for the Raiders, but off the bench. He may place pressure on the aging Terry Campese and could emerge as a cheapie in coming weeks;

• POPULAR North Queensland pair Jason Taumalolo and Curtis Rona (both ankle) were named to return from injury;

• JAMES Maloney emerged as the big SuperCoach winner from the Origin team announcements following his NSW snub. He will now be available for all three tough bye rounds, but would have missed five of eight weeks if he made the Origin side;

• JOSH Jackson, John Sutton, Adam Reynolds and Anthony Milford also emerged as useful purchases following Origin snubs.

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Friday, May 23, Bulldogs v Roosters, ANZ Stadium, NINE, 7:45pm

Bulldogs: Sam Perrett, Mitch Brown, Chase Stanley, Timoteo Lafai, Krisnan Inu, Reni Maitua, Moses Mbye, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis, James Graham, Josh Jackson, Dale Finucane, Greg Eastwood. Interchange: Pat O'Hanlon, Tim Browne, David Klemmer, Sam Kasiano, Corey Thompson, Lachlan Burr

Ins: Krisnan Inu, Reni Maitua, Moses Mbye, Pat O'Hanlon, Corey Thompson, Lachlan Burr

Outs: Josh Morris, Josh Reynolds, Trent Hodkinson, Tony Williams (all NSW)

Other unavailables: Frank Pritchard (pectoral, season), Drury Low (fractured hand, round 12)

Comment: The big news for SuperCoaches is the naming of Moses Mbye, who should provide cover for all tough bye rounds following Josh Reynolds and Trent Hodkinson's call-ups. Tim Lafai, Aiden Tolman, James Graham and Josh Jackson remain bye period purchases, although some SuperCoaches will be ruing looking for bye value in Origin players Tony Williams, Reynolds and Hodkinson. In terms of team changes, Chase Stanley shifts to centre to replace Josh Morris, with Krisnan Inu coming onto the wing. Reynolds and Hodkinson are replaced in the halves by Reni Maitua and Mbye. Williams is replaced in the starting back row by Dale Finucane, with Pat O'Hanlon, Corey Thompson and Lachlan Burr added to an extended bench.

Roosters: Anthony Minichiello, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Samisoni Langi, Mitchell Aubusson, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, James Maloney, Mitchell Pearce, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Jake Friend, Sam Moa, Dylan Napa, Sonny Bill Williams, Frank Paul Nuuausala. Interchange: Daniel Mortimer, Isaac Liu, Kane Evans, Remi Casty

Ins: Samisoni Langi, Mitchell Pearce, Kane Evans, Remi Casty

Outs: Daniel Tupou, Michael Jennings (NSW), Boyd Cordner (ankle, round 17), Aidan Guerra (Queensland)

Other unavailables: None

Comment: James Maloney's Origin snub is a big win for SuperCoaches willing to bet on him not being recalled. At $120,000, Michael Jennings' centre replacement Samisoni Langi could emerge as a backline cheapie, especially if Jennings or Daniel Tupou get injured in Origin. Sonny Bill Williams is back in the pack following the return of Mitchell Pearce (club suspension). He is an essential buy for this week for those who don't already own him, despite up-and-down form. Jake Friend will be released to play despite being named in an extended squad for Queensland.

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Saturday, May 24, Titans v Warriors, Robina Stadium, FOX, 5:30pm

Titans: David Mead, Kalifa Faifai Loa, William Zillman, Brad Takairangi, Anthony Don, Beau Henry, Albert Kelly, Luke Douglas, Beau Falloon, Luke Bailey, Mark Minichiello, Dave Taylor, Paul Carter. Interchange: Matt White, Mark Ioane, Ben Ridge, Matt Srama, Cody Nelson

Ins: Albert Kelly, Mark Ioane, Ben Ridge

Outs: Aidan Sezer (pectoral, season), Nate Myles (Queensland)

Other unavailables: Greg Bird (suspension, round 13), Jamie Dowling (knee, season), James Roberts (ankle, round 12), Ashley Harrison (neck, round 17)

Comment: Starting lock Paul Carter has emerged as a serious rep season buy given the absences of Greg Bird (suspension, round 13), Ashley Harrison (neck, round 17) and Nate Myles (Origin). The kid is a serious gun and played 80 minutes on the weekend, which should continue while the big guns are out. But unfortunately, further bye period purchases are few and far between, which is a shame given Gold Coast's great bye schedule. Albert Kelly could be a point of difference option, especially if he wins the kicking duties with Bird and Aidan Sezer (pectoral, round 24) out. But recent injury history is a worry, as is the Titans' depleted attack, exacerbated by the long-term loss of Sezer. There is also a bit to like about David Taylor's recent SuperCoach form, but Carter is available for $6,000 cheaper.

Warriors: Sam Tomkins, Kevin Locke, Konrad Hurrell, Ngani Laumape, Manu Vatuvei, Chad Townsend, Shaun Johnson, Jacob Lillyman, Nathan Friend, Ben Matulino, Jayson Bukuya, Ben Henry, Simon Mannering. Interchange: Siliva Havili, Suaia Matagi, Feleti Mateo, Sebastine Ikahihifo, Nathaniel Peteru

Ins: Siliva Havili, Nathaniel Peteru

Outs: Sione Lousi (knee, round 15)

Other unavailables: Sam Rapira (back, indefinite), Thomas Leuluai (groin, indefinite), Glen Fisiiahi (shoulder, round 12), Jerome Ropati (broken jaw, round 12)

Comment: With a two round average of 88 in the back row, Ben Matulino was looming as an intriguing bye round purchase, but has inexplicably been moved back to prop. Ben Henry takes Matulino's place in the pack and could emerge as a centre/wing buy if he plays big minutes. Kevin Locke moves into the starting backline, with SuperCoach cheapie David Fusitua (shoulder) to return from injury in NSW Cup. Konrad Hurrell and Shaun Johnson remain bye period purchases. Sione Lousi (knee, round 15) is replaced on the bench by Siliva Havili, with Nathaniel Peteru added as 18th man.

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Saturday, May 24, Tigers v Broncos, Campbelltown Stadium, FOX, 7:30pm

Tigers: Kurtis Rowe, David Nofoaluma, Tim Simona, Chris Lawrence, Pat Richards, Braith Anasta (c), Luke Brooks, Martin Taupau, Joel Luani, Keith Galloway, Sitaleki Akauola, Bodene Thompson, Adam Blair. Interchange: Sauaso Sue, Ava Seumanufagai, Blake Austin, Keith Lulia

Ins: Joel Luani, Sitaleki Akauola, Keith Lulia

Outs: Aaron Woods, Robbie Farah (NSW), Cory Paterson (finger, indefinite)

Other unavailables: James Gavet (hamstring, round 13), James Tedesco (ankle, round 13), Dene Halatau (ankle, round 13), Tim Moltzen (knee, indefinite), Liam Fulton (back, round 13)

Comment: The Tigers lose three forwards in Aaron Woods, Robbie Farah (NSW) and Cory Paterson (finger, indefinite). Martin Taupau replaces Aaron Woods at starting prop, with Keith Lulia added to the bench. Joel Luani replaces Robbie Farah at hooker, with SuperCoach cheapie Blake Austin to get game time at dummy half off the bench. Sitaleki Akauola replaces Cory Paterson in the back row. Kurtis Rowe should make another $10,000 or so, with James Tedesco (ankle, round 13) due back after the bye. Like the Titans, there is a lack of genuine bye period purchases here, despite a great schedule.

Broncos: Ben Barba, Daniel Vidot, Jack Reed, Dale Copley, Lachlan Maranta, Josh Hoffman, Ben Hunt, Josh McGuire, Andrew McCullough, Jarrod Wallace, Alex Glenn, Corey Oates, Todd Lowrie. Interchange: David Hala, Ben Hannant, David Stagg, Jake Granville, Martin Kennedy, Jordan Kahu

Ins: Lachlan Maranta, Ben Hannant, Jake Granville, Martin Kennedy, Jordan Kahu

Outs: Justin Hodges, Matt Gillett, Corey Parker (Queensland)

Other unavailables: Sam Thaiday (calf, round 12), Mitchell Dodds (knee, season), Ashley Taylor (shoulder, round 18)

Comment: Justin Hodges, Matt Gillett and Corey Parker (Queensland) are replaced in the 17 by Lachlan Maranta, Ben Hannant and Jake Granville. Martin Kennedy and Jordan Kahu have been added to an extended bench. Ben Barba is seriously out of form and not an option, even at $158,000. Josh McGuire (three round average 62) and Andrew McCullough (season average 67) could be great purchases for this week's bye, but miss rounds 14 and 17.

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Sunday, May 25, Raiders v Cowboys, GIO Stadium, NINE, 3:00pm

Raiders: Anthony Milford, Reece Robinson, Jarrod Croker, Jack Wighton, Sami Sauiluma, Terry Campese (c), Josh McCrone, David Shillington, Glen Buttriss, Brett White, Jarrad Kennedy, Joel Edwards, Shaun Fensom. Interchange: Mitch Cornish, Matt McIlwrick, Paul Vaughan, Dane Tilse, Shannon Boyd

Ins: Mitch Cornish, Shannon Boyd

Outs: Josh Papalii (Queensland)

Other unavailables: Edrick Lee (foot, season), Jeff Lynch (knee, season)

Comment: Josh Papalii (Queensland) is replaced in the starting back row by Joel Edwards, with Shannon Boyd added to the bench. Pre-season cheapie fancy Mitch Cornish has been named to debut in jersey 14 and could place serious pressure on Terry Campese for a starting halves spot. Anthony Milford and Shaun Fensom remain great bye period purchases.

Cowboys: Michael Morgan, Curtis Rona, Matthew Wright, Kane Linnett, Antonio Winterstein, Robert Lui, Ray Thompson, Scott Bolton, Rory Kostjasyn, Ashton Sims, Ethan Lowe, Jason Taumalolo, Tariq Sims. Interchange: Anthony Mitchell, Glenn Hall, Ricky Thorby, Joel Riethmuller, Sam Hoare, John Asiata

Ins: Curtis Rona, Jason Taumalolo, Ray Thompson, Anthony Mitchell, Ricky Thorby, Joel Riethmuller, Sam Hoare, John Asiata

Outs: Brent Tate, Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott (Queensland), James Tamou (NSW), Gavin Cooper (dislocated hip, round 24), Cameron King (knee, season)

Other unavailables: Lachlan Coote (ACL, season), Patrick Kaufusi (pectoral, season)

Comment: The big news for SuperCoaches is the returns of Curtis Rona and Jason Taumalolo (both ankle), who add very welcome extra numbers for the bye round. Ray Thompson replaces Johnathan Thurston (Queensland) in the halves. Brent Tate (Queensland) is replaced at centre by Matthew Wright, with Rona returning from injury on the wing. A forward exodus – including Matt Scott (Queensland), James Tamou (NSW), Gavin Cooper (dislocated hip, round 24) and Cameron King (knee, season) - sees Scott Bolton and Ashton Sims start at prop, while Taumalolo, Anthony Mitchell, Ricky Thorby, Joel Riethmuller, Sam Hoare and John Asiata have been added to the squad.

Monday, May 26, Sharks v Rabbitohs, Remondis Stadium, FOX, 7:00pm

Sharks: Michael Gordon, Sosaia Feki, Blake Ayshford, Ricky Leutele, Jonathan Wright, Daniel Holdsworth, Jeff Robson, Siosaia Vave, John Morris, Bryce Gibbs, Tinirau Arona, Wade Graham (c), Chris Heighington. Interchange: Isaac De Gois, Sam Tagataese, Tupou Sopoaga, David Fifita, Michael Lichaa

Ins: Blake Ayshford, Daniel Holdsworth, Tinirau Arona, Tupou Sopoaga, David Fifita, Michael Lichaa

Outs: Anthony Tupou (knee, indefinite), Beau Ryan (neck, indefinite), Todd Carney (hamstring, indefinite), Luke Lewis and Paul Gallen (both NSW)

Other unavailables: Andrew Fifita (ankle, round 15), Matt Prior (back, round 13)

Comment: The Sharks have lost possibly their three best forwards in Anthony Tupou (knee), Luke Lewis and Paul Gallen (both NSW). Two of the replacements will please SuperCoaches – early-season cheapie Tinirau Arona and a potential cheapie for this week in David Fifita, with Tupou Sopoaga and Michael Lichaa also added. Michael Gordon has been a shining light for the Sharks, averaging 59 for the season and 87 in the last three rounds. Wade Graham could be a point of difference bye purchase. Beau Ryan (neck, indefinite) and Todd Carney (hamstring, indefinite) are also missing, replaced by Blake Ayshford and Daniel Holdsworth.

Rabbitohs: Nathan Merritt, Alex Johnston, Dylan Walker, Kirisome Auva'a, Joel Reddy, John Sutton, Adam Reynolds, George Burgess, Apisai Koroisau, David Tyrrell, Kyle Turner, Ben Lowe, Sam Burgess. Interchange: Cameron McInnes, Bryson Goodwin, Jason Clark, Luke Burgess

Ins: Nathan Merritt, Joel Reddy, Ben Lowe

Outs: Greg Inglis, Ben Te'o, Chris McQueen (Queensland)

Other unavailables: Issac Luke (shoulder round 12), Luke Keary (pectoral, round 13), Beau Champion (wrist, indefinite)

Comment: Queensland Origin stars Greg Inglis, Ben Te'o and Chris McQueen are replaced in the 17 by Nathan Merritt, Joel Reddy, Ben Lowe. Reddy has scored a starting wing spot ahead of Bryson Goodwin, who has been named on the bench. Cheapie Alex Johnston gets another run, and even if you missed the boat last week, he's still set for another $45,000 price rise this week. John Sutton, Adam Reynolds, George Burgess and Sam Burgess are all top purchases for the byes. Issac Luke (shoulder) could be a late inclusion. He would likely relegate Cameron McInnes to NSW Cup and may cut the minutes of Apisai Koroisau.

BYES: Dragons, Storm, Knights, Sea Eagles, Panthers, Eels

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Etihad crowds hit all-time low

The Western Bulldogs and Tom Campbell are among those to play in front of bare stands at Etihad Stadium this year. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Michael Klein / News Corp Australia

CROWDS in the AFL heartland have dropped to their lowest levels in years.

Etihad Stadium attendances are at an all-time low while MCG averages have dipped to totals not seen since 2007.

After 20 games at Etihad Stadium the average crowd is 28,570 — down 11.7 per cent on the same time last year.

The MCG's average of 50,342 after 18 games is down 6.7 per cent.

The average Carlton crowd in Melbourne is down more than 4500 this year, to 42,585.

The Blues have played on Thursday night, Monday night and twice on Sunday night.

THE BAROMETER: LIKELY INS FOR ROUND 10

Carlton chief executive Greg Swann said the challenge for the AFL was to find a balance between appeasing broadcasters and fans attending matches.

"Based on this year's fixture it seems the pendulum may have swung a little too far in favour of the TV broadcaster requests which in turn has made it challenging for our members, especially those with young families and/or those that live in country Victoria to attend all of our games," Swann said.

Variable ticket pricing has been raised as an issue affecting crowds but the AFL has said it is too early to draw conclusions.

Thanks for coming ... Dennis Armfield and Zach Tuohy are part of a Blues line-up that is seeing fewer fans at their matches. Source: Getty Images

"The mix of matches through the fixture in any point of the season and the form of sides are the key determinants for our crowd totals," AFL spokesman Patrick Keane said.

"Attendance figures at home matches for clubs do rise and fall historically across our competition and that is largely driven by form, and the mix of opponents."

Nationwide attendance is down only marginally, largely due to bumper turnouts at the new Adelaide Oval.

VIDEO WOULD AVOID SIREN MUDDLE: BUCKS

The only time Etihad Stadium has averaged less than 30,000 after 20 games in a season was in its opening year, 2000.

"There's still well over half a season of footy remaining and we're optimistic about future games," Etihad Stadium spokesman Bill Lane said.

"We have a series of Friday night matches coming up ... which will help to turn crowd figures around."

Only twice this year has a game attracted more than 70,000. There were five crowds above 70,000 in the first 18 games at the MCG last year and seven in 2012.

FAN EJECTED AT ETIHAD OVER RACIST SLUR AT GOODES

MCC chief executive Stephen Gough said the figures "aren't cause for alarm" yet.

"The general trend we've seen this year is slightly down, I agree," Gough said.

"Whether the variable pricing has had an effect is hard to say, but I think a combination of the form of some of our key teams, a couple of bad days of weather and scheduling has probably had the most impact."

After eight games at Adelaide Oval the average attendance is 44,792, which dwarfs last year's AAMI Stadium average of 30,264.

The AFL-wide average crowd after Round 9 is 33,933. At the same time last year it was 34,072.

Gold Coast crowds are up 14.7 per cent and Fremantle's attendance has risen by 7.7 per cent while West Coast, Brisbane, Sydney and Greater Western Sydney have remained steady.

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Retrogram: Footy stars in soaps and sitcoms

Actors Christopher Atkins and Mark "Jacko" Jackson in the film Signal One, released in 1994. Source: News Corp Australia

AUSTRALIAN football has appeared in numerous television sitcoms and soapies over the years; one enduring memory of my youth was of footy being discussed on the early '80s comedy Kingswood Country.

Central character Ted Bullpitt ("money on the fridge'') puts down his newspaper to ask his son-in-law Bruno what he is watching on television. "Football,'' Bruno replies.

"Bulldust,'' snorts rugby-league fan Ted. "If that's football, why aren't they bleeding?

"Look at 'em. Bunch of pansies skipping around in their little sisters' shorts.''

Of course footballers have appeared as themselves on our screens, whether it be as panellists, hosting kids' shows or on reality TV shows.

Peter McKenna was one of the original co-hosts of Hey Hey It's Saturday, while Graham Cornes introduced the Wacky Races to a generation of South Australian kids in the 1970s.

Ryan Fitzgerald was on Big Brother, former Hawk Robert Dickson won the Australian version of Survivor, rover Johnny Platten bobbed up on Gladiators, Russell Robertson sang on It Takes Two, and ruckman Peter Everitt and forward Brendan Fevola cut a rug on Dancing with the Stars.

Peter Everitt and professional dancer Luda Kroitor practice for Dancing With the Stars. Source: News Limited

Garry Lyon was called out to come on down on to the Price Is Right, while Wayne Carey appeared in his North Melbourne jumper on Perfect Match in 1990 (asked by his prospective date what the headline would be if his photo appeared on page one of the newspaper, he predicted: "Probably 'Found guilty on all charges'.''

Former Saint Michael Roberts had a stint as a model on Sale Of The Century (extra points to anyone who can recall him appearing alongside teammate Michael Nettlefold on a 1982 episode of Countdown, presenting a St Kilda jumper to Toni Basil before she performed her No.1 hit Mickey).

Ryan Fitzgerald played 18 games with Sydney and Adelaide before being evicted from Big Brother. Source: News Corp Australia

But it's the soaps and sitcoms we're after. So we've delved into the pictorial archives and found 10 photos of footballers who found their way onto the set for a cameo. If you can think of any notable omissions leave a comment below or send a tweet to @_warwickgreen and we'll publish a selection next week.

1. Dipper in The Flying Doctors

HAVING won the 1986 Brownlow, the Hawks wingman was asked the following year to play a brief role as "Bruce the Brute'', a pill-popping truckie who pursues his girlfriend to Coopers Creek and ends up in big trouble.

"I'm not certain why they chose me, because I'm a footballer,'' DiPierdomenico said at the time. "I can't tell you the plot or if I get the girl in the end, but I'm called on to get a bit aggro and to drive one of those big trucks."

Robert DiPierdomenico and co-stars on The Flying Doctors. Source: Supplied

Dipper said the toughest part about the gig was the ribbing he got from his Hawks teammates. Another league footballer, former St Kilda forward and Test cricket all-rounder Simon O'Donnell, appeared on another episode on the show, but in the context of playing in a charity cricket match.

Actor Aaron Pedersen on set with Saints Sam Fisher, Brendon Goddard and Xavier Clarke. Source: News Limited

2. St Kilda players in The Secret Life Of Us

The early 2000s drama, about a group of 20-somethings living in a block of flats opposite Luna Park, began to take off on a tangent by season four.

One of the key characters, Kelly, began dating fictional St Kilda footballer called Corey Mailins (Aaron Pedersen). Mailins could boast that he took the 1995 mark of the year over Mick Martyn, won two best-and-fairests and finished fifth in the 1998 Brownlow.

One of the scenes called for footage from a training session, involving young Saints such as Raphael and Xavier Clarke, Nick Dal Santo, Leigh Montagna, Brendon Goddard and Sam Fisher. Pedersen, who is related to the McAdam brothers and Brisbane's Daryl White, did not look too out of place. He was actually a pretty handy footballer who played A-grade footy in Alice Springs at age 16.

Policewoman Briony Behets has a fag and arrests Alvin Purple (Graeme Blundell). This was the 70s, remember. Source: News Limited

3. Leigh Matthews in Alvin Purple

After the successful 1973 film Alvin Purple, the ABC screened a 13-part spin-off series for television. As inconceivable as it seems now, Hawthorn champion Leigh Matthews played a small role in an episode called Footy Widow during the 1976 premiership season.

Womaniser Alvin (Graeme Blundell) was training with the local footy club and getting up to no good behind the scenes. "Lethal" played a character called Max, who stepped in to warn Alvin that several upset husbands were going to try to knock him out at training.

"My part in the show was to tell him something like 'I hope you've got your box on'. Like a cricket box,'' Matthews said this week. "I don't remember a hell of a lot about it. I know I flew up to Sydney for the filming, and my involvement took a few hours, even though it was only 15 seconds or something in the show.''

4. Collingwood players on Neighbours

Back in 2011 Collingwood players Travis Cloke, Alan Toovey, Tyson Goldsack and Cameron Wood took themselves along to Ramsay St to appear as extras in an episode of Neighbours.

Inexplicably, they appeared in a scene in the Eastside Dingoes Gym, dressed in full Collingwood training gear.

They walked on treadmills (that were not actually moving) and pedalled stationary bikes. Cloke spent an eternity stretching as he prepared to lift the world's lightest barbell.

Collingwood players Travis Cloke, Alan Toovey, Cameron Wood and Tyson Goldsack work out at Erinsborough. for some reason Source: News Limited

What they were doing there, apart from sightseeing, is not really clear. It was Wood's idea to appear on the show and he approached the club, who helped make it happen. "I used to watch the show when I was at high school and Toady was always my favourite,'' Wood said. "We saw all the different sites, Lassiter's Lake and Harold's shop. It was fun."

5. Brodie Holland on Neighbours

THEN again, it's not like Neighbours hadn't already had a dip at reworking the plot to accommodate a Collingwood footballer.

At least Brodie Holland got some lines when he made his Neighbours cameo. Source: News Corp Australia

There is an episode where Max Hoyland (Stephen Lovatt) goes into a dream sequence, in which he is heating up his pie in preparation for the Grand Final, when suddenly he turns around to find: "Brdoie Holland! What are you doing in my kitchen, mate?'' The Magpie midfielder then declares: "We need a full-forward Max, and you're the man for the job.''

Sydney Swans footballer Warwick Capper with actors Annie Jones and Kylie Minogue on the set of Neighbours" in 1986. Source: News Corp Australia

6. The Wiz on Neighbours

YOU would have thought the scriptwriters could have at least contrived a way to build the episode around the Collingwood stars, like they did during the height of his Swans spearhead Warwick Capper's popularity in 1986.

The premise was that "The Wiz'' wandered into the local Erinsborough coffee shop, where Charlene Mitchell (Kylie Minogue) and Jane Harris (Annie Jones) ask for autographs. They then ask whether there's any prospect of them having a go at being cheerleaders for the Swans. It's that easy, apparently.

Dermott Brereton and Penny Cook. Source: Supplied

7. Dermie on E Street

THE Buddy Franklin of the late 1980s, Dermott Brereton had a few cracks at acting in TV shows.

There was an appearance on the kids sitcom Pugwall and much later a role in the crime drama Stingers. In 1990 he was cast as the local video store owner on the edgy soap E Street.

Derm helped bring the long-running but unresolved romantic tension between Dr Elly Fielding (Penny Cook) and Reverend Bob Brown (Tony Martin) to a head. On the show he fell for Dr Fielding, who had to enlist the good Reverend's help to tell Brereton's character that he was involved with her instead.

8. Jacko in The Highwayman

ON THE BACK of his successful battery advertisements, former VFL full-forward Mark Jackson landed a role in a futuristic show called The Highwayman, that was part Mad Max part Knight Rider.

His character was the imaginatively named Jetto, who was the offsider to the main character played by Sam Jones (of Flash Gordon fame). The pilot aired in September 1987, and was followed by a short-lived series of nine episodes in 1988.

The opening narration went: "There is a world, just beyond now, where reality runs a razor thin seam between fact and possibility; where the laws of the present collide with the crimes of tomorrow. Patrolling these vast outlands is a new breed of lawman, guarding the fringes of society's frontiers, they are known simply as 'Highwaymen' ... and this is their story ...''

Depite the failure of the show, Jacko went on to co-star with Christopher Atkins in the 1994 film Signal One, filmed in Sydney. The plot involved a police investigation into a female serial killer. It was so bad that Jacko hasn't really been seen on film since.

Clint Bizzell on the case with Aaron Pedersen and Daniel MacPherson. Source: News Limited

9. Clint Bizzell on City Homicide

THE FORMER Geelong and Melbourne defender turned his attention to acting after retiring in 2007. It began with a guest role on Channel 7's City Homicide, in which he played Ashley Brunton, the night manager of a city motel where a prominent judge stayed each week so he could indulge in heroin and hookers.

In 2009 Bizzell then had a five-week stint on Neighbours, playing Adam Clarke, a star footballer with the Portside Falcons.

If Jay Kennedy-Harris doesn't make it as a footballer, he can always go back to acting. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

10. Jay Kennedy-Harris in Dead Gorgeous

UNLIKE the other players on this list, the young Demon actually got his acting career going before he was drafted.

He played the role of Charlie in the ABC series Dead Gorgeous (2010), in which three teenage sisters — Rebecca, Sophie and Hazel — are given a second-chance at life, 150 years after they died. He also had roles in a 2009 film called Blessed and in Neighbours. He even has an IMDB page.

You might see him acting on your screens at the moment, given he appears in a television advertisement for protective services officers.

He will be doing well if he follows in the footsteps of another young indigenous actor who went on to play AFL football. David Wirrpanda had a small role as "young Ted'' in the 1991 biopic Rose Against The Odds, the story of world boxing champ Lionel Rose. Wirrpanda went on to play 227 games for West Coast, including in the victorious 2006 Grand Final.

RETROGRAM RECALL

Last week we nominated the 10 most iconic footy photos and got plenty of feedback.

Cameron Schwab, on Twitter: This (image of Royce Hart) is the perfect footy photo.

RETROGRAM SAYS: Agree Cameron, it is an absolute work of Hart.

Royce Hart twists away from a Geelong opponent during the 1969 first semi-final. Source: News Limited

Robert Shaw, on Twitter: Masters at work. Was on my Mobil footy card when I was about 8.

RETROGRAM SAYS: How often do you see two AFL Team of the Century footballers captured going head to head in a magnificent photograph?

Graham Farmer contests against John Nicholls Source: News Limited

FOOTNOTE: Apart from all of the suggested photographs of marks, which were ineligible because the criteria for the list was to include only one image of a speckie, other suggestions included: Heath Shaw's smother in the 2010 Grand Final, Ron Barassi kicking against Essendon, and Dermott Brereton in the wake of the early bump in the 1989 Grand Final.

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Fergie’s shadow doesn’t spook van Gaal

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MANCHESTER United's new coach Louis van Gaal insisted Tuesday that he has "no fear" of living in the shadow of emblematic former manager Alex Ferguson.

Dutchman Van Gaal, 62, will take over as the new manager of the English Premier League giants after the Netherlands campaign at the World Cup with former player Ryan Giggs as his assistant.

"Pressure I put on myself. That Alex Ferguson is looking over my shoulder I really don't think it's the biggest problem," van Gaal was quoted as saying in Tuesday's edition of Dutch football magazine Voetbal International. Ferguson managed United for 27 years until 2013, winning 13 Premier League and two Champions League titles, and is now a member of the board of directors.

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"I also get on very well with him and we'll probably soon have a drink together," van Gaal said.

"My objective is that Manchester United quickly regain their number one spot. They (club bosses) think that I'm capable of achieving this in the first season, not only with the star players but also with the young ones.

"It's a daunting task but a fantastic challenge." Van Gaal has signed a three-year contract to succeed David Moyes who was sacked after a disastrous run of results saw United fail to qualify for next season's Champions League.

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Van Gaal's contact with Man United only goes back a few weeks, since Moyes sacking, the Dutchman confirmed.

"When Manchester came knocking on my door, I didn't think about it for long: Manchester United is the biggest club in the world in terms of marketing and budget." But he insisted the appointment would not take his focus off the World Cup in Brazil.

"My work at the head of the Oranje does not suffer from the current situation," he insisted. "I worked for Manchester during my days off.

"I've already talked a lot with the English bosses. They already know the names of the players I would like to have, but also those who are allowed to leave," he explained.

Former manager Alex Ferguson wasn't far from Old Trafford last season, despite retiring. Source: AP

"I've never dealt with transfers and I'm not going to start now, just to say which players I want to have and what players can go. I don't discuss money." He added: "It takes time to negotiate with a club, it is a real process.

There are things that need to be addressed, such as the team preparation programs, the players, the youth program." Van Gaal added that he was "proud to have been chosen" to spearhead United and had been overwhelmed by the many messages of congratulations, including from Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho.

"Jose Mourinho was one of the first to text me. He said he was jealous of my list of clubs," said the former Ajax, FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach.

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Tinkler on verge of giving up the Knights

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EMBATTLED millionaire mining magnate Nathan Tinkler was believed to be on the verge of bailing out of the Newcastle Knights and handing the club back to the community following crisis talks involving NRL officials in Newcastle on Monday.

The NRL met with representatives from Tinkler's Hunter Sports Group and the Knights members' club in a bid to end two months of stalled negotiations over the club's ownership which was brought to a head late last week following revelations as many as 20 players and staff had not been paid on time.

Tinkler with Wanye Bennett, Hunter Sports Group CEO Troy Palmer, and CEO Matt Gidley. Source: News Limited

No one was commenting on the outcome of the talks with an NRL spokesman suggesting they may be in a position to make a statement today.

But given the enormous public pressure on Tinkler to walk away after three years as owner and with little backing from the NRL, it appears his days as owner are numbered with the Knights members' club ready to step in.

I DON'T KNOW IF I'LL HAVE A JOB: BENNETT

Chairman Nick Dan has already flagged his club's intention to take court action to remove Tinkler if he refuses to go of his own accord given that he has already reneged on the terms and conditions of his privatisation agreement.

But that prospect was looking increasingly unlikely with the NRL keen for an amicable end to the dispute.

Bennett talks to his players after revelations the club did not pay its staff last week. Source: News Corp Australia

Just what financial position the club finds itself in if Tinkler does walk will be intriguing.

There has been speculation the $10.52 million currently sitting in a joint signatory Knights bank account might not cover the debt and that the NRL may be forced to offer financial assistance to bail the club out if that is the case.

TINKLER SHOULD GO NOW

There is also increasing speculation surrounding where the formation of a new entity to run the Knights leaves coach Wayne Bennett and his football staff.

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It's understood Bennett's $1 million a season contract is with Hunter Sports Group or one of Tinkler's subsidiary companies and not directly with the Knights and the same goes with some members of his staff.

If that is the case, there is a possibility the game's highest paid coach will have to renegotiate a new contract and, more than likely, have to agree to take a pay cut to stay at the club.

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Tributes flow for Sir Jack Brabham

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PEOPLE from around the world have hailed Sir Jack Brabham.

Former Formula 1 driver Mark Webber hailed Brabham as a trailblazer, who paved the way for fellow Australians on the world stage.

"He was a trailblazer; he took the hardest road and made it easier for the rest of us to follow," he said.

"When I think of Jack, I think of a tenacious individual; an absolute grafter; he did it his own way and made it stick.

"What he achieved taking on the best in the world and winning one of his three world titles in his own machinery is the stuff of pure legends.

"I was very fortunate that I was introduced to Jack before I left Australia and to be in his presence as a 17 or 18-year old as I must have been at the time, just blew me away. He provided me with endless support and advice over the years and became a close confidante.

Webber said he was disappointed he was unable to join Brabham and Alan Jones as world champion.

Daniel Ricciardo, Webber's replacement at Red Bull Racing, tweeted his condolences.

Australia's Prime Minister leading the tributes following the motorsport legend's death.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott said "Australia has lost a legend" with Sir Jack's passing.

The 88-year-old, who once served in the RAAF, "boasted many great Australian traits," Mr Abbott said.

"He was respected and admired for his spirit, and for his great skill as an engineer."

Opposition leader Bill Shorten echoed his sentiments, suggesting "Sir Jack Brabham reminds us of an Australia that perhaps has become a memory.

"He was an archetypal Australian modest sporting hero ... the Bradman of the motor circuit, he invented and designed his own motor cars.

"He was a truly modest man who perhaps never realised how much all Australians loved him and Australia should be grateful for what he did and acknowledge this upon his passing."

Brabham won three Formula 1 world drivers' championships and remains the only man to win one in a car he built himself. He was also the first driver to be knighted for services to motorsport.

"It's a very sad day for all of us," son David Brabham, an accomplished racer himself, said in a statement on Monday morning.

"He lived an incredible life, achieving more than anyone would ever dream of and he will continue to live on through the astounding legacy he leaves behind."

Brabham was Australia's first F1 race winner, his success at the sport's top level encouraging other Australian's to test their mettle overseas.

"I think he was inspirational for any young bloke that wanted to go across overseas and race cars," Alan Jones, Australia's second and most recent F1 world champion, told Sky News.

"He was the man they looked up to and he was the man they wanted to emulate."

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The Confederation of Australian Motorsport (CAMS) said the legendary driver, known as "Black Jack" would never be forgotten.

"Always a man of few words - his nickname 'Black Jack' referred to both his dark hair and his propensity for maintaining a shadowy silence - he avoided small talk and was undemonstrative in the extreme," a statement on the CAMS website said.

"But behind the wheel he was anything but shy and retiring. He put his head down and drove exceedingly forcefully."

Australian drivers from all around the world have tweeted their respects to a man who played a role in many drivers careers, whether by their achievements, as an inspiration, or as a fountain of wisdom.

A young Courtney receives award from Brabham and Jones in 1996. Source: Supplied

V8 Supercars CEO James Warburton said Brabham will be forever loved, admired and remembered.

"Many people in our Championship were inspired by Sir Jack and the incredible feats he achieved in conquering the world as a driver, engineer and team owner," Mr Warburton said.

"Sir Jack led the way for many Australians to succeed on the global stage and for Australia to be recognised as a leader in motorsport."

Around the world, drivers and motorsport figures have also remembered a man whose unique achievements will certainly never be matched.

"The word 'legend' is often used to describe successful sportsmen, but often it exaggerates their status," McLaren CEO Ron Dennis, who was a mechanic for Brabham early in his career, said in a statement.

"In the case of Sir Jack Brabham, however, it's entirely justified.

"When I started out in Formula 1 in the late 1960s, I worked first for Cooper and then for Brabham.

"Even as a callow youth, I could recognise greatness when I saw it, and I'll always regard it as an honour and a privilege to have worked for Sir Jack. I learned a lot from him too."

Awarded Australian of the Year in 1966 and National Treasure in 2012, Sir Jack was the first motorsport member to be knighted.

He won world titles in 1959 and 1960 with the Cooper Racing Team, and again in 1966 when he became the first driver to win in a car that he built himself.

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Cherry-Evans sinks Knights at death

Manly's Daly Cherry Evans and Steve Matai celebrate the try of Jorge Taufua. Source: Renee McKay / Getty Images

A STUNNING 40 metre field goal from Sea Eagles halfback Daly Cherry Evans with just three seconds remaining gave Manly a dramatic 15-14 win over Newcastle at Brookvale on Monday night.

Shattered Knights players collapsed to the ground as the ball sailed over at the famous ground's Pittwater road end.

The kick gave Manly the lead for the first time in the match. It was a true clutch play.

Brett Stewart of the Sea Eagles is tackled by Jarrod Mullen. Source: Getty Images

Newcastle looked set to record only their third win in 26 years at Brookvale after leading 14-4 midway through the second half.

But Manly tries in the 69th and 73rd minutes levelled the scores into the dying moments.

The Sea Eagles fumbled their way through the second half but, as they so often do, somehow stayed in the game.

Cherry-Evans' kick under pressure continued claims he is now the NRL's best halfback.

"He saved our arses," conceded Manly winger David Williams.

The Knights had their chances to win — but just couldn't nail Manly.

Manly's Daly Cherry Evans and Steve Matai celebrate the try of Jorge Taufua. Source: Getty Images

Newcastle skipper Kurt Gidley missed a crucial penalty goal in the 68th minute with his side leading 14-4.

The Knights sit equal last. Defeat continued a horrible week for Newcastle when players and staff weren't paid.

Manly is outright second on the NRL table behind Canterbury.

The first half was tight and tense.

It took 15 minutes for the first try to be posted last night and it went to Newcastle winger Akuila Uate.

Uate, the forgotten man of NSW's State of Origin side, bullied his way over and past three Manly defenders to score a try out of dummy half.

Manly's Steve Matai tackled by Newcastle's Chris Houston. Source: News Corp Australia

Until that point, Newcastle had heaped plenty of pressure on Manly but the Sea Eagles' defence had held tight.

From out wide, Knights skipper Kurt Gidley converted to give his a 6-0 lead.

Manly had several opportunities midway through the first half but the final pass either wasn't thrown or it went to ground.

The Knights defence scrambled successfully and kept denying the Sea Eagles.

Both sides looked dangerous at times but somehow failed to post a try. It was almost frustrating.

The first half was marred by several errors from NSW wing aspirant Jorge Taufua.

Newcastle's Joseph Tapine battles with Manly's Brett Stewart. Source: News Corp Australia

Taufua was powerful with the ball but couldn't catch a high ball. Newcastle bombed toward Taufua four times in the first half.

Twice he dangerously let the ball bounce, the other two he fumbled in the air.

When he finally did catch a kick, the Manly crowd roared.

It would have made NSW coach Laurie Daley think twice about selecting the big Manly winger when the Blues side is named today.

Newcastle was denied a try early in the second half after a mistake from Manly winger David Williams.

Williams fumbled a kick before Newcastle forward Robbie Rochow grounded the loose ball.

But the video referees determined Newcastle winger James McManus knocked on first in the scramble for the ball.

Newcastle's Willie Mason is tackled by Manly's Jamie Buhrer. Source: News Corp Australia

Manly made a series in unforced errors in the second half, uncharacteristic for such a professional side.

And, finally, one of those errors was costly.

A Knights kick from Jarrod Mullen was fumbled by Taufua for Uate to scoop up the scraps and slam the ball down for his second try.

Taufua made amends though a few minutes later when he crashed over for a try in the corner.

Manly had possession after Uate dropped a simple clearing kick. It was a terrible error.

From the sideline, Steve Matai failed to convert, the visitors holding a six-point lead.

Taufua scored his second from a kick — which Uate let bounce — to ensure a close finish.

MANLY 15 (J Taufua 2 J Buhrer tries S Matai goal D Cherry-Evans field goal) bt NEWCASTLE 14 (A Uate 2 D Gagai tries K Gidley goal) at Brookvale Oval. Referee: Matt Cecchin, Adam Devcich. Crowd: 8,655.

Re-live the action in our blog below:

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