‘The Gov’ a genuine swingman

Eric MacKenzie says the Eagles are still firmly eyeing finals footy. Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images Source: Paul Kane / Getty Images

DEFENDER Eric Mackenzie believes West Coast may have found a genuine swingman in impressive newcomer Jeremy McGovern, five years after the retirement of premiership utility Adam Hunter.

McGovern, 22, is likely to start forward against St Kilda at Etihad Stadium today but has starred as a defender for East Perth in the WAFL this season.

Mackenzie, now the Eagles' most senior key defender following the retirement of former captain Darren Glass, said McGovern had the ability to develop into either a key defender or forward and that in the short-term he might be best utilised as a swingman.

The Eagles have not had a key position player who could be swung through both ends of the ground since the injury-forced retirement of Hunter in 2009.

"He might be able to play both. We've got a couple of good keys at either end, so wherever he fits in,'' Mackenzie said.

"It's good having the flexibility and Simmo's (coach Adam Simpson) big on having flexibility.''

McGovern, who will play just his fourth AFL game today, has taken a total of 20 marks and kicked five goals over the past two weeks against Hawthorn and Gold Coast.

Having trained with McGovern since he joined the club through the 2011 rookie draft, Mackenzie said his biggest strength was his ability to judge the ball in flight.

"He reads the flight of the ball very well,'' he said.

"He's a confident player, so when he flies at the ball he's one of the best marks at the club.''

Mackenzie declared the Eagles were "still alive" and that finals remained a possibility at 5-7 ahead of today's clash with the Saints and a daunting Western Derby on Saturday.

"There's still a heartbeat at the moment. It's very faint, but we're still a chance,'' he said.

"Funny things can happen in footy.''

Despite not being in the leadership group, Mackenzie was one of the Eagles named by Simpson as a captaincy contender who would share the skipper's job on a rotating basis for the remainder of the season.

"It's not something I've thought of. We've got a good leadership group as it is,'' Mackenzie said.

"It's not something I'm pushing for.''

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Sore point broke reflective Glass

Darren Glass at his retirement press conference. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: Daniel Wilkins / News Corp Australia

DARREN Glass knew he would never play footy again when he watched an Eagles' morning training session from the other side of the fence.

"Seeing the boys train, already I felt on the outside of the group, so it hit home a bit then more than anything," the former Eagles' captain said just days after his shock retirement.

Glass, 33, says he may have been able to play a handful of games through to the end of his 15th season but he had started some outings in pain.

He made a personal assessment that some of his playing efforts were not good enough after 270 games including the 2006 premiership.

Glass says he played on this year to join leadership forces with first-time senior coach Adam Simpson.

"No, not any regret. It is more with hindsight I can say I played a year too long," Glass said.

"At the end of last year I had been carrying an ankle complaint in the back half of the season and if I booked in for surgery as I did, I thought that I would be able to contribute well enough for this year.

"I finished the season playing OK footy at the end of last year.

"So all of the decision making processes I am happy with. So I am not regretting going into this year at all.

"But the way the year has panned out, I re-aggravated the ankle and ... an old hip injury.

"I went into this year knowing that I wouldn't be able to play every game and that at some stages I'd get sore and need a rest.

"But I felt my form dropping off as well and that in the second half of this year, that I would taper off.

"I really felt that another player would be able to step in and give as much if not more than I could in the back half of the year."

Glass was virtually not training at all between games over the opening three months of the season as West Coast stumbled through a horror run of seven losses in eight weeks after winning its opening three games.

"It was the recovery between games which becomes the issue as you get older," he said.

"I was really not training at all. I had ankle complaints, hip complaints and I could have played one week and then get to Thursday and chat to Simmo and tell him that I was really struggling to get up for the next game.

"I'd have a week off and go into the next game (and) I still wouldn't be feeling great.

"So that's when I knew I was in a bit of trouble and I had a chat to Simmo and it got to the point when I thought it was best for me and for the team to step aside."

Glass started the first season of a new era under Simpson knowing it would be his last year but time caught up ahead of schedule.

"It got to the point where I couldn't get rid of the soreness before the next game," he said.

"That happened at different times last year when I had a couple of rests, but this year it was happening obviously more frequently.

"It's not easy being sore all week and trying to do a little bit of training and weights, but you do get used to it as you get a bit older."

Glass rejected any notion of an emotional send-off appearance at home, saying a half-time lap of honour in last week's thrilling win over the Gold Coast was enough.

"To be honest, the way it played out I got to lead the boys out one last time and I got to walk a lap of honour with my kids which was phenomenal and I thought the crowd was amazing," Glass said.

"So I felt like I got more than what I could have asked for. I felt an obligation that once it was over in my head, it's time for someone else to play.

"For me it was over. It was time to step aside and the way it turned out as a day with the boys playing really well, winning the game and getting the sort of send-off that I did.

"It couldn't have been any better for me personally."

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No.29 is footy’s fountain of youth

Kevin Bartlett played 403 matches in No.29 including the 1980 Grand Final, when he won the Norm Smith Medal. Source: News Limited

SOMEONE at Richmond clearly thought the shy and skinny young rover showed a bit of potential.

Because they decided to hand him the No.29, the jumper worn by another long-serving Tigers rover, a club great who had served as captain, won multiple best-and-fairests and had a real knack for snagging a goal.

SCROLL DOWN TO SEE OUR TEAM OF NO.29 CHAMPIONS

That Tigers great was Ron Branton, and the promising young kid was Kevin Bartlett.

"A lot of times in those days they seemed to hand numbers down to players of similar ilk or positions,'' Bartlett recalled this week. "Ron Branton was a rover and maybe they thought it was a good one to hand on to me.

"After Ron, who was a three-time best-and-fairest winner, captain and runner-up in the Brownlow Medal, the number had gone to another young player called Rod Evans (a 178cm wingman who played 11 games for the Tigers in 1963-64), but he must have been given the boot by the time I came on to the senior list in 1965 and that number was available.

"It was the only number I ever wore as a member of the senior list at Richmond,'' Bartlett said.

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It never entered his head to switch later in his career to a lower number. "I just thought that was my number and that was the end of it''.

As a teenager, Bartlett lived with his family in a rented house in Lennox St, just a few hundred metres from the Punt Rd Oval, where the young Kevin dreamt of pulling on the red, white and blue of his idol, Footscray's Ted Whitten.

Kevin Bartlett channelling the 1980 Grand Final. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

Bartlett had played his junior football with the Try Boys in South Yarra, where he wore No.13. He got his start at Richmond playing in the fourths (Under-17s), having spent the first few weeks running the boundary while he waited for a clearance. At 16 he was fast-tracked to the Under-19s, where a new coach, Ray "Slug'' Jordon, had just taken over from Graeme Richmond, recently promoted to the position of club secretary.

KB's first taste of the big time came in March 1965, when he arrived home from his job as an apprentice at the PMG workshops in South Melbourne to be told by his mum, Thelma, that there was a telegram waiting for him on the kitchen table. "You have been selected to play in the main practice game at MCG, Saturday. Attend at 1pm. Bring white shorts. Socks provided.''

A few weeks later coach Len Smith called Bartlett over during Thursday evening training to confide he would be making his senior debut, as 19th man in the Round 3 match against St Kilda at the MCG. The Bartlett family remained unconvinced, though, until Kevin's selection was confirmed that night by Ron Casey and Lou Richards reading out the teams on 3DB radio at 9pm.

Having managed 14 games in his first year, Bartlett finished the 1965 season wondering who his new coach would be, after poor health forced Smith to relinquish the role. It came down to a choice between Branton and a former Tigers back pocket named Tom Hafey.

Although Hafey had played 67 games for the Tigers in the mid-1950s, "when they announced that he had got the job I wondered who he was''.

FIVE GREATEST 29s

Over the next decade they would combine to help Richmond win four premierships, but more importantly Hafey would become a mentor, mate and inspiration in Bartlett's life. More than the premierships, Bartlett values such relationships from his time at Punt Rd, and in a way wearing the No.29 played its part.

"Another player at Richmond who wore that number was Les Flintoff (17 games between 1950-52), who was the father of Debbie Flintoff, the Olympian.

"He always used to have a bit of fun and say, 'Don't let that number down, son'. Les became one of the gun recruiters after he retired, during those halcyon days with Graeme Richmond and the like, and he remained a lifelong friend.''

Numbers provide an emotional connection for fans — which makes it tough when your favourite player defects to another club, as Cats fan Luca Copic discovered. Source: News Limited

Then there was the No.29 locker in the Punt Rd Oval changerooms. "My locker was part of a cluster of maybe five or six on the back wall, between the door to the showers and a passageway to the old board room,'' Bartlett recalled.

"We were right underneath a huge tiger at the far end of the room.

"Back in those days Richmond probably only had two or three showers that actually worked, so if you were close you were some sort of chance to get a decent shower, particularly with the old hot water service we had.''

Some other notable No.29s Source: HeraldSun

As for the corridor to the boardroom, Bartlett said "my idea was to never go up there''. I reckon I was there for more than two years before I even set foot in it.''

Bartlett's locker neighbour was a man named Francis Bourke, with whom he played a then record 289 games in the same team between 1967-81 (only Adelaide pair Tyson Edwards and Andrew McLeod (307) and Sydney duo Adam Goodes and Jude Bolton (301) have since passed that mark).

"We sat next to each in the Punt Rd rooms for all of those years,'' Bartlett said. "He's lovely man Francis.

"(Geoff) Strangy would have been there, he was No.28. A bit later in our careers Peter Welsh (31) was one of our locker mates, he was a great fella with a fantastic sense of humour. A bit of a prankster. Always had great stories to tell. He kept us entertained.''

The No.29 that he wore in 403 games now has become intrinsically associated with Bartlett. It is repeated twice in his mobile phone number (he wanted it three times but could not get it), and it is not unusual for strangers to randomly walk up and thank him — because they have won money by choosing 29 at the roulette table or in a raffle.

"I think 29 is the most drawn out number in Tattslotto history,'' Bartlett said. "So if you want to win Tattslotto you have to have it in there (29 may have been at some point, but as it stands the No.25 is the most commonly drawn Saturday lotto number).''

Who is the greatest VFL-AFL player to have worn No.29?

It is interesting to note that Bartlett started at Richmond as a junior in 1962, and left as a sacked coach 29 years later.

These days, in his role as football commentator, he now takes a special interest in

players who take the field wearing the 29 guernsey.

"I don't know what it is, and it's a bit unusual, but that the number has been worn by a lot of rovers. We mentioned Ron Branton. Then there's Garry Wilson who was just a fantastic player for Fitzroy and a mighty bloke. Brent Harvey, Gary Ablett Jr started out in 29.

"Also I don't know whether there's another number that's been so good for longevity,'' he said. "There are a quite a few players who had played a lot of games wearing 29.''

Apart from Bartlett himself, these include Harvey (game 375 on Sunday), Fremantle's Matthew Pavlich (game 304 on Saturday night), Wilson (268) and former Hawk and Saint Russell Greene, who wore 29 in 263 matches. Most of Heath Scotland's 268 games were in 29, while Gary Ablett played 192 at Geelong before adding another 74 in No.9 at Gold Coast. And 300-gamers Nathan Burke and Chris Grant both wore 29 early in their careers.

All of which helps to make No.29 one of the great jumper numbers in AFL history. In fact, according to our panel of experts, it comes as the ninth greatest number.

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Hot Harley blows Scott, Cats away

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GEELONG senior coach Chris Scott has a general rule that he does not talk about rival players or teams.

But Gold Coast midfielder Harley Bennell was such a devastating and dominant force in the Suns' 40-point skinning of the Cats at Metricon Stadium tonight, Scott broke from protocol to praise the 21-year-old sensation.

BENNELL, SUNS SINK FLAT CATS

Bennell kicked six goals, had two goal assists and had 27 sublime disposals in arguably the best game of his career and the Gold Coast's best-ever win.

Bennell was simply head and shoulders above every player on the field and showcased why he is regarded as a future superstar of the game.

The crowd even started chanting, "Harley! Harley! Harley!'' in the final quarter.

"I didn't see him running around by himself. I saw him beating opponents,'' Scott said.

Bennell kicked six goals from 27 touches. Picture: Richard Gosling Source: News Corp Australia

"He's going to do it for a few years to come.''

A calf injury kept Bennell sidelined until Round 7 this year but he was at the absolute peak of his powers as he tore the fourth-placed Cats to shreds.

The Gold Coast also showed that they will not make up the numbers in September as the rising Suns brought the Cat Empire to its knees.

Geelong led by 11 points at quarter-time and seven points at the main break but eight unanswered majors from the Suns either side of the three-quarter time break put the AFL powerhouse to the sword.

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Suns coach Guy McKenna urged his side to "maintain the rage'' with their "manic defensive pressure'' that allowed Bennell to flourish.

"Probably not,'' McKenna said when asked if Bennell had played a better game for the Suns.

"I'd like to think he got that reward from his diligence to get himself right injury-wise.''

McKenna said the victory was in the final for the club's best win.

"It's certainly up there … given the opponents and their proud history,'' he said.

Bennell had plenty of support in a complete team performance.

Charlie Dixon booted three goals. Source: Getty Images

Suns skipper Gary Ablett had 33 disposals, nine clearances and eight tackles, Dion Prestia had 28 touches, David Swallow had 27 disposals and Charlie Dixon kicked three goals. Steve May also won his personal duel with Cats star Tom Hawkins.

Geelong were best served by Joel Selwood (28 disposals and seven clearances), Mitch Duncan (29 touches) the duo of Steve Motlop and debutant Shane Kersten who kicked three goals each.

Scott said the final margin blew-out as the Cats attempted to open the game up.

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"It was more us trying to win it. You can try to close it down a little bit and mitigate the damage or you can take it on and risk losing by more but give yourself a chance of winning,'' he said.

He said "poor skill execution'' was at the heart of the loss.

"We were in it (at three-quarter time). It wasn't so much that something changed in the fourth quarter. We were beaten around the ball, their pressure was really good and in the slippery conditions, we probably overused it,'' Scott said.

He said the loss of Mathew Stokes to an ankle injury in the first quarter was crucial.

Suns wonderkid Jack Martin finished his second senior match with an impressive one goal, 15 disposals and six tackles.

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Down the middle is the way to go: Sando

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CROWS coach Brenton Sanderson says he will continue to encourage his defence to attack through the corridor despite statistics showing Adelaide has been more successful this season when it plays safe.

There's a clear trend emerging in the Crows' inconsistent year — in their wins they move the ball around the boundary more often but when they gamble and take the ball through the corridor they lose.

Sanderson wants his team to keep choosing the "high risk, high reward" option of carrying the ball through the middle of the ground because it's what the AFL's elite do.

Five of the teams who use the corridor the most - Geelong, Fremantle, Collingwood, Port and Sydney - sit inside the top six on the ladder.

The Crows are ranked third in centre corridor use but enter Saturday night's game against Essendon at Etihad Stadium in 10th spot because they've been badly punished by opposition sides when they turn the ball over in this part of the ground.

"We've turned the ball over in our defensive half almost more than any other side this year," Sanderson said.

"When we've played poorly and lost the opposition has turned the ball over in our defensive half ...

"(And) it's a short distance to go back to the opposition's goal to score."

So as Adelaide prepares for what could be a season-defining clash against the Bombers, Sanderson faces a classic "development v results" coaching decision.

Adelaide Crows coach Brenton Sanderson believes in the "high-risk, high-reward" approach. Picture: Sarah Reed.

Does he cop the short-term turnover pain to fast track his team's development into a genuine top four threat?

Young defenders like Luke Brown and Rory Laird aren't going to develop into reliable long kicks if they never try them on game day.

Or does the desire to return to the top eight after a disappointing 2013 season take precedence and result in a more risk-averse game style?

"We still promote corridor. That for us is where we can create some better attacking play," Sanderson said.

"We would love a lot better ball use out of our D50.

"Smith, Reilly, Jaensch are good kicks, Laird and Brown are neat kicks (and) Otten, Talia - we're still working with those guys to ensure we're getting good ball use out of D50.

"It's an area we have to keep improving on for sure but we'll always still promote corridor ball use."

Staying aggressive when the pressure is on is a theme Sanderson - and his players - have promoted all season.

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The Crows coach repeated the message yesterday, saying it was even more important this week against Bombers side which restricts forward entries better than any other team.

"When we're not going well we can't afford to go back into our shells," Sanderson said.

"We have to keep taking the game on, be bold, be brave, that's when we're playing our best footy ...

"Essendon's pressure is very good. They're the number one side in preventing inside 50s in the competition - they only give up 42 a week.

"We're going to have to be really on top of our game if we're going to beat this side."

PLAYING SAFE

Adelaide's use of the corridor from defence this season

Wins - 19.9%

Losses - 28.4%

R13 v Kangaroos - 17.2%

CORRIDOR KINGS

The AFL sides who play through the middle the most

Geelong - 38.5%

Fremantle - 35.7%

Adelaide - 33.1%

Collingwood - 32.9%

Port Adelaide - 31.5%

Sydney - 31.1%

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Stuart gets praise for NSW Origin win

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NSW PLAYERS say much-derided coach Ricky Stuart deserves as much credit as his successor Laurie Daley for Wednesday's State of Origin breakthrough.

Daley will rightly go down in the history books as the coach who ended Queensland's mighty eight-year reign but, without prompting, Stuart's name was also tossed up for praise in the winning NSW sheds.

Winning NSW Origin coach Laurie Daley with former Blues boss Ricky Stuart. Source: News Limited

Stuart, Daley's former Canberra teammate, was at the helm when the Blues last won a series in 2005.

But despite the sense of optimism which surrounded his return to the role in 2011-12, Stuart was ultimately unsuccessful in breaking Queensland's run.

However, his impact on that Blues team hasn't been forgotten. Although losing back-to-back series in deciding matches under Stuart was agonising, NSW praised the embattled Raiders' mentor for instilling the hard-nosed culture which eventually paid off in Wednesday's 6-4 win.

Star back-rower Greg Bird said Daley had finished a job started by Stuart.

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"Loz has been great for us but it's not all Loz," Bird said. "It's a combination of Ricky Stuart, what he brought and what he started. The squad that started a couple of years ago that's had to lose those couple (of series) ... building what we've created (on Wednesday)."

Stuart is often criticised for his intense approach, but players have always said his methods were ideally suited to the scrutiny, pressure and passion of Origin.

Beau Scott debuted in 2010 for the Blues, but said the self-belief in the NSW camp went to another level the following year under Stuart.

Ricky Stuart talks with Greg Bird during his time as Blues coach. Source: News Limited

"I've been around for a few years now on the scene. I think Ricky Stuart created the culture we've got here," he said.

"Laurie has continued this great culture and it showed (on Wednesday) how gritty we were and to hang in there and win it late in the game." Stuart's Raiders are languishing near the bottom of the NRL table with just four wins, and last year, his Parramatta outfit collected the wooden spoon.

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Live NRL: Bulldogs lead Raiders

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INSPIRED by the 20 year reunion of their 1994 premiership winning team, the Raiders started strongly with some hard hitting defence backed up by some clever attack.

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Jarrod Croker crossed first when he cut through the Bulldogs' right edge to claim a 6-0 after as many minutes.

But the Bulldogs bounced back soon after.

On debut, Canberra's 18-year-old Holden Cup sensation Branko Lee had a horror start to his NRL career when he knocked on right in front of his own posts on the first tackle.

Josh Reynolds gets some close attention form the Raiders. Source: News Corp Australia

And from the next set a controversial obstruction call went against the Raiders to give Drury Low the Bulldogs' opening try.

Lee was a late inclusion after Ricky Stuart made some significant changes to his starting side.

Anthony Milford was dumped to the bench to make way for Reece Robinson at fullback while Lee replaced Sami Sauiluma on the wing and Joel Edwards went into the backrow in place of Jake Foster.

The Raiders extended their lead to 8-4 with a penalty goal to Croker in the 24th minute.

At least Englishman James Graham was used to the cold. Source: News Corp Australia

But in the countdown to half-time Josh Reynolds inspired two tries in the space of five minutes to put Canterbury in front.

Quick hands from Reynolds created space for Corey Thompson to score in the 33rd minute and a brilliant sideline conversation from Trent Hodkinson put the Dogs ahead for the first time in the match.

But not to be outdone by his Blues halves partner, Hodkinson then sparked the Bulldogs' fourth try in the 50th minute with a terrific kick chase forcing a crucial mistake from Robinson who dropped the ball while attempting to get himself back into the field of play.

Hodkinson's desperate defence forced the error as Tim Lafai swooped on the loose ball to score.

The decision was initially sent up to the video refs as a no try by the onfield officials.

But for the second time on the night the controversial call went against the home team as the Dogs took a 20-8 lead into the final quarter of the match.

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Crows unlikely to kick off on Good Friday

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ADELAIDE'S hope of opening next year's AFL premiership season - to coincide with the Crows' 25th season in the national league - is more likely to unfold on Maundy Thursday than Good Friday.

New AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan on Friday favoured Sydney for the AFL's first Good Friday fixture - and dismissed early speculation the Swans' opponent would be Port Adelaide.

Rather, McLachlan favours the Good Friday match-up becoming a potentially long-standing Sydney-Melbourne rivalry for the Ron Barassi Cup, in honour of the Hall of Fame "Legend" who served both the Swans and Demons.

"I think Sydney, 4.40pm on a Good Friday ... would be a pretty appealing game," McLachlan said yesterday.

"Melbourne are improving and what people want to watch is a good game. If Melbourne continue to improve and are playing good footy that would be a great game.

"If we're going to do this let's make it a great event and Melbourne-Sydney as an example is hugely symbolic and playing for the Ron Barassi Cup, that's a great idea."

This leaves Adelaide to pitch for the AFL season-opener on Thursday, April 2 - as a throwback to how the Crows opened the 1991 season against Hawthorn at Football Park, albeit with a Friday night game.

The Power would then start the 2015 home-and-away series away from Adelaide Oval, either on Easter Saturday or Sunday either in Perth, Melbourne or Queensland.

Adelaide chairman Rob Chapman last night maintained the Crows could make a strong case to the AFL for Good Friday football, particularly with Adelaide Oval being available earlier than other venues that are locked for the cricket one-day World Cup next year.

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Adelaide Oval is free of cricket from March 20 after a World Cup quarter-final. The SCG is tied to the cricket for a World Cup semi-final until March 26, although the AFL could opt for ANZ Stadium at Homebush.

"We believe we have plenty of support for our bid to host a match on either Maundy Thursday night or Good Friday," Chapman told The Advertiser.

"We feel we are well placed to get one of either timeslots."

Adelaide may pitch for a Good Friday double-header - with the Crows hosting a night game that follows the Sydney-Melbourne twilight match in Sydney. But the league's official telecaster, Channel Seven, may not favour two games in its premier Friday Night Football program.

Adelaide wants to own Thursday night football as its signature timeslot at the Oval, in particular before public holidays and during school holidays. A Maundy Thursday season-opener fits perfectly to this plan.

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SuperCoach Formguide: Hop on Roos for run home

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NORTH Melbourne has been as inconsistent as out-of-season peach prices in 2014.

One week, Brad Scott's men are producing some of the gutsiest, most buccaneering victories in the club's recent history. The next, they are dropping games to sides of a similar level to them.

The club's supporters must be as frustrated as a jockey with a yoyo.

But don't despair North fans. The immediate future looks bright.

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While your team's inconsistency has you questioning whether you are good enough to play finals, the Roos' run home is, statistically, the easiest of any AFL side.

North, which sits comfortably in seventh spot on the ladder with a 7-5 record, plays eight sides currently in the bottom 10 from its remaining 10 matches. Its only two matches against top eight sides are against Hawthorn (Round 16) and Geelong (Round 19).

And generally, the lower a team is on the ladder, the more scoreboard points and SuperCoach points it is likely to concede.

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So over the next few weeks, it might be worthwhile jumping on a few Roos as they embark on this easy run home.

Make Brent "Benjamin Button" Harvey a priority. He is averaging 112 points this season, including 122 from his past five games.

He may be 36, but Boomer is still picking opposition teams apart while his teammates are constantly looking to bring him into the game. And his forward-midfielder selection flexibility makes him even more of an attractive proposition.

North Melbourne ruckman Todd Goldstein could be about to hit a purple patch. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

Todd Goldstein is another. The big man has produced two consecutive 100s and could be on the verge of a big second half of the season. Don't miss out!

The Roos also have a few quality midfielders – all of which are owned by less than 2000 coaches – to choose from. Keep an eye on Ben Cunnington, who has averaged 106 points from his past three games, and Levi Greenwood, who has scored over 100 in all of his past five games.

It might also be worth looking at trading in players from Fremantle, which plays seven bottom-10 teams in its remaining 10 games.

Fremantle's David Mundy might be a good unique pick for you. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: News Corp Australia

David Mundy, who has scored over 100 points in six of his past eight games, is only owned by just over 5,700 coaches and would be a unique pick. Also consider another distinctive midfielder in Stephen Hill, who averages 113 points from his past four games

And don't miss out on midfielder Anthony Morabito ($123,900) when he returns to the side soon.

If you're looking at players to avoid based on a team's run home, try and sidestep any Carlton players – barring Bryce Gibbs, who is averaging 124 points over the past five rounds as he, ironically, seeks to finalise his contract with Carlton.

While the Blues have been brave against quality opposition over the past fortnight, their run home looks as difficult as solving a rubik's cube for the first time.

Bryce Gibbs is perhaps the only Carlton player you should think about trading in for the rest of the season. Source: Getty Images

Seven of the Blues' final 10 games will be played against teams currently in the top eight. The only finals-bound side they won't play is Hawthorn, who they played this past round.

It might be wise to also avoid any Essendon players – for two reasons.

Firstly, none of us are 100 per cent sure which path Bombers players will take regarding the supplements saga.

Will they waste little time and take a short ban? Will they stick by the club and fight ASADA and the AFL until the death? The longer it drags on, how much influence will it have on their performance?

No matter what the players decide, Essendon has the most difficult run home of any team in the AFL.

Eight of the Bombers' final 10 games will be against teams currently inside the top eight.

You can't go wrong with Collingwood's Scott Pendlebury as your SuperCoach captain this week. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

CAPTAIN'S CORNER

SCOTT PENDLEBURY (Collingwood) $631,500 mid

Pendles loves the MCG spotlight and loves the playing against the Hawks, averaging 120 from his past three games against the brown and gold. You can't go wrong.

GARY ABLETT (Gold Coast Suns) $670,600 mid

Ablett has had no nerves or troubles facing his old side in recent years, averaging 115 points in his past three games against Geelong.

CALLAN WARD (GWS Giants) $609,900 mid

He's tough, he's influential, but above all, Ward is in ripping SuperCoach form. He's averaged 133 points from his past three games and 124 from his past five. Against the Blues at home, he might be a nice double point of difference.

And one from left-field …

TODD GOLDSTEIN (North Melbourne) $500,700 ruck

The big Roo has torn the Demons to shreds in his past three games against them, averaging a whopping 153 points. Risky, but you'll look like a genius if it comes off.

He might be a little pricey, but Richmond's Anthony Miles will undoubtedly make you cash this week. Source: Getty Images

JUMP ON

ANTHONY MILES (Richmond) $246,000 mid

The former Giant's price will skyrocket this week following scores of 83 and 108. Yes he's not the cheapest downgrade, but if you're looking to offload an underperforming midfielder, Miles – who has a breakeven of -44 – is your man.

STEFAN MARTIN (Brisbane Lions) $242,700 ruck/fwd

Looking to downgrade a ruckman? There is still time to jump on the Lions' No.1 ruckman, who has a breakeven of -69 this week. Will give you incredible value.

JEREMY McGOVERN (West Coast) $213,200 fwd

Like Martin, he still has plenty of cash to make, despite already playing three games this season. The young Eagle has a ridiculously low breakeven of -104 this week. Not too late to jump on.

CHAD WINGARD (Port Adelaide) $390,500 fwd/mid

One of the most discussed players this season is way under the odds. With a breakeven of -29, Wingard will not be any cheaper.

Got Saints skipper Nick Riewoldt? Might be time to say goodbye. Source: Getty Images

JUMP OFF

NICK RIEWOLDT (St Kilda) $378,500 fwd

If you've still got him, you deserve a standing ovation for your patience. But the champion Saint hasn't cracked the ton since Round 5. Most importantly, he doesn't even look like cracking three figures anytime soon.

ALEX FASOLO (Collingwood) $324,000 fwd

He was dropped last weekend and has now been ruled out for three weeks with another foot injury. Fasolo's done his job, so it's time to look elsewhere.

MATT CROUCH (Adelaide) $266,400 mid

Time to drop the young Crow, as his place in Adelaide's side is far from secure. And even if he plays, he'll have to score 92 or more to make you cany cash.

SHAUN HIGGINS (Western Bulldogs) $415,900 fwd

He's been consistent this season – did I just say that? – but it looks like Higgo has hit his peak, suffering his first price drop of 2014 last weekend. With a breakeven of 143 this week, it's time to go, Shaun.

SUPERCOACH FORMGUIDE

For the best advice ahead of Round 14, click here.

BEST TWEETS

SUPERROUND

At the completion of the AFL season the participant whose Nissan SuperCoach team has earned the highest number of points for a single round during the entire season will be declared the SuperRound winner and receive a Nissan Altima ST-L.

After Round 13, Luck, coached by Brendan, is still leading the way after his amazing 2720 in Round 11.

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Email trail traces Bombers talks

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THE extent of secret negotiations over Essendon players in the first days of the drugs probe is revealed by a dossier of more than 50 explosive emails.

The Herald Sun has obtained details of the chain of correspondence between the AFL, the Gillard government and the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority in February and March last year.

They reveal how an agreement was brokered between the parties to make it possible for Bombers stars to escape suspension — and ASADA's decision to back away from the deal two weeks later.

BOMBERS WIN EXTENSION FROM ASADA

PLAYERS CONFIDENT OF BEATING DRUG BANS

The Herald Sun understands many of the emails contain information that could be critical to the outcome of Federal Court actions by Essendon and suspended coach James Hird in which they assert that the ASADA-AFL investigation was unlawful.

Key figures involved in the email trails include then AFL deputy Gillon McLachlan, former AFL boss Andrew Demetriou, ex-ASADA chief Aurora Andruska, AFL legal counsel Andrew Dillon, and AFL integrity chief Brett Clothier.

Former AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou was left his post on 4 June this year. Source: Getty Images

Staff from the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Department of Sport, which oversees ASADA, as well as anti-doping legal chiefs and investigators, are also identified in the email trails.

The communications took place less than two weeks after Essendon "self-reported" to the AFL and ASADA on February 5 and the release of an Australian Crime Commission report into drugs in sport and organised crime on February 7.

Aurora Andruska, former ASADA chief executive, was replaced by Ben McDevitt in May 2014. Picture: Kym Smith Source: News Corp Australia

Interviews with Essendon players and other figures central to the club's 2012 supplements program had not commenced at the time of the behind-the-scenes negotiations.

The original agreement between the AFL and ASADA — finalised on February 20 — stated that "to provide an immediate level of comfort ... it will be explained to players that under a no fault or negligence defence a player can receive a complete elimination of sanction".

The agreement is referred to in the emails as the "statement".

Email details in the Essendon-ASADA drug saga. Source: Supplied

Email details in the Essendon-ASADA drug saga. Source: Supplied

But the email chain shows how ASADA changed its mind about the statement on March 5 — the same day ASADA counsel John Marshall, SC, quit his work for the anti-doping agency.

It is understood Mr Marshall had raised serious concerns with ASADA over the AFL arrangement.

The chain reveals ASADA sent an email to the Department of Sport that day headlined "clarification of statement".

ASADA staff further discussed the new statement internally in emails on March 6 before the anti-doping body wrote to McLachlan on March 7 saying it had altered the document's wording.

Former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard was copied into emails in March 2013. Source: NewsComAu

A staffer in the office of former prime minister Julia Gillard is also copied into the March 7 emails.

As revealed in Wednesday's Herald Sun, McLachlan wrote back to ASADA on March 7 saying: "It is the AFL's, Essendon Football Club's (and its players and officials), and the AFL Players' Association's clear understanding that the Investigation and any subsequent actions will be conducted in accordance with your Original Statement.

Discussions between ASADA, the AFL and Department of Sport continued via email on March 8.

The AFL believes its dealings with ASADA were appropriate and in the context of putting in place a framework for the investigation, rather than fixing an outcome.

The original AFL-ASADA statement was distributed to the Essendon players on February 20 last year and will form a key plank in players' defences to show-cause notices issued last week.

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AFL Teams: Chappy eyes Cats, not Crows

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PAUL Chapman has chosen not to take his place in Essendon's side this weekend, preferring to take on his old club for the first time in Round 15.

Chapman has opted to miss the Bombers' clash with Adelaide at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night so he can focus on facing Geelong — the club he played 251 games for across 14 years.

ROUND 14: EXPERT TIPS

Bombers coach Mark Thompson said Chapman would have just one match of as part of managing his workload.

"Chapman is being rested, he could only play one out of the next two because they are both six day breaks," Thompson told the club's website.

SCROLL DOWN TO REPLAY OUR LIVE SUPERCOACH CHAT ...

"He made the decision to play the Geelong game over the Adelaide game which makes sense."

Jake Carlisle will not face the Crows due to knee soreness, however the Bombers regain veteran Dustin Fletcher and midfielder Travis Colyer.

Steve Johnson returns for Geelong. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

GEELONG has swung the axe at the selection table for its clash with Gold Coast on Saturday, recalling star midfielder Steve Johnson, ruckman Hamish McIntosh and midfielder Allen Christensen for his first game of the year.

However key defender Harry Taylor will not face the Suns due to a knee injury.

As expected, GOLD COAST has rushed young gun Jack Martin back into the side for the Cats clash at the expense of Aaron Hall.

SYDNEY has selected Mike Pyke for his first game since Round 7, as well as debutant Zak Jones, to face Richmond tonight.

Mike Pyke returns for Sydney. Picture: Tim Hunter Source: News Corp Australia

Dan Hannebery will miss with an ankle injury, while Gary Rohan has been omitted.

RICHMOND will face the Swans without former skipper Chris Newman (groin) and Ben Lennon (omitted). Matt Thomas and Reece Conca return to the line-up.

WESTERN BULLDOGS welcome back skipper Matthew Boyd for his first game since Round 10, but at the expense of Brownlow medallist Adam Cooney (hamstring) for Saturday's match against Port Adelaide.

HAWTHORN has recalled two important bookends, with defender Brian Lake and forward Jack Gunston to face Collingwood at the MCG on Saturday.

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COLLINGWOOD has dropped emerging ruckman Brodie Grundy, but welcomes back Dayne Beams for the crucial clash with the Hawks.

ST KILDA defender James Gwilt is a chance to play his first game since Round 8, with the Saints adding him to their 25-man squad for Sunday's clash with West Coast.

ROUND 14

RICHMOND v SYDNEY SWANS

Friday, June 20 at the MCG, 7.50pm (EST)

TIGERS

B: T.Chaplin, J.Batchelor, A.Rance

HB: B.Houli, M.Dea, S.Morris

C: D.Martin, S.Edwards, R.Petterd

HF: N.Foley, A.Edwards, B.Deledio

F: R.Conca, J.Riewoldt, A.Miles

Foll: I.Maric, B.Ellis, T.Cotchin

I/C: M.Thomas, S.Hampson, D.Grimes, N.Vlastuin

Emg: N.Gordon, B.O'Hanlon, B.Helbig

In: M.Thomas, R.Conca

Out: C.Newman (groin), B.Lennon

SWANS

B: N.Smith, T.Richards, D.Rampe

HB: J.Laidler, H.Grundy, R.Shaw

C: N.Malceski, JP.Kennedy, L.Jetta

HF: A.Goodes, S.Reid, J.McVeigh

F: L.Parker, L.Franklin, H.Cunningham

Foll: M.Pyke, K.Jack, C.Bird

I/C: B.Jack, Z.Jones, J.Lloyd, T.Derickx

Emg: G.Rohan, T.Membrey, T.Nankervis

In: M.Pyke, Z.Jones

Out: D.Hannebery (ankle), G.Rohan

Western Bulldogs skipper Matthew Boyd will return to face Port Adelaide. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

PORT ADELAIDE v WESTERN BULLDOGS

Saturday, June 21 at Adelaide Oval, 1.45pm (EST)

POWER

B: J.Hombsch, A.Carlile, T.Jonas

HB: M.Broadbent, J.Trengove, J.Pittard

C: A.Monfries, T.Boak, K.Cornes

HF: J.Polec, J.Westhoff, M.White

F: R.Gray, J.Schulz, C.Wingard

Foll: M.Lobbe, O.Wines, B.Ebert

I/C: K.Mitchell, A.Young, T.Logan, S.Gray

Emg: B.Newton, J.Neade, C.O'Shea

In: T.Logan, S.Gray, J.Polec

Out: D.Cassisi (knee), H.Hartlett (ankle), J.Impey (general soreness)

BULLDOGS

B: L.Picken, J.Roughead, E.Wood

HB: S.Higgins, D.Morris, R.Murphy

C: M.Bontempelli, R.Griffen, J.Macrae

HF: K.Stevens, M.Austin, L.Jones

F: L.Dahlhaus, S.Crameri, D.Giansiracusa

Foll: W.Minson, M.Wallis, T.Liberatore

I/C: M.Boyd, N.Hrovat, J.Grant, J.Tutt

Emg: S.Darley, M.Honeychurch, J.Stringer

In: M.Boyd

Out: A.Cooney (hamstring)

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HAWTHORN v COLLINGWOOD

Saturday, June 21 at the MCG, 2.10 (EST)

HAWKS

B: S.Burgoyne, R.Schoenmakers, L.Hodge

HB: M.Suckling, B.Lake, G.Birchall

C: I.Smith, B.Sewell, B.Hill

HF: P.Puopolo, J.Gunston, C.Rioli

F: L.Breust, J.Roughead, J.Ceglar

Foll: D.Hale, J.Lewis, L.Shiels

IC: M.Spangher, T.Duryea, A.Litherland, B.Ross

Emerg: K.Cheney, T.O'Brien, J.Sicily

IN: B.Lake, J.Gunston

OUT: K.Cheney, T.O'Brien

MAGPIES

B: M.Williams, J.Frost, A.Toovey

HB: P.Seedsman, L.Keeffe, H.Lumumba

C: T.Broomhead, B.Macaffer, C.Young

HF: S.Dwyer, J.White, L.Ball

F: D.Swan, T.Cloke, J.Elliott

Foll: J.Witts, D.Beams, S.Pendlebury

Inter: J.Thomas, T.Langdon, T.Adams, J.Blair

Emerg: B.Kennedy, J.Marsh, B.Grundy

IN: D.Beams

OUT: B.Grundy

VFL Geelong v Coburg at Coburg. Allen Christensen. Picture: Andy Brownbill Source: News Corp Australia

GOLD COAST SUNS v GEELONG

Saturday, June 21 at Metricon Stadium, 4.40pm (EST)

SUNS

B: K.Kolodjashnij, S.May, G.Broughton

HB: M.Shaw, R.Thompson, T.McKenzie

C: J.Harbrow, G.Ablett, M.Rischitelli

HF: D.Stanley, TJ.Lynch, H.Bennell

F: C.Dixon, S.Day, B.Matera

Foll: Z.Smith, J.O'Meara, D.Prestia

IC: J.Martin, A.Sexton, L.Russell, D.Swallow

Emerg: S.Lemmens, J.Lonergan, M.Warnock

IN: J.Martin

OUT: A.Hall

CATS

B: C.Enright, T.Lonergan, A.Mackie

HB: C.Guthrie, J.Rivers, M.Blicavs

C: S.Johnson, J.Selwood, J.Caddy

HF: J.Bartel, J.Walker, A.Christensen

F: S.Kersten, T.Hawkins, M.Stokes

Foll: H.McIntosh, J.Kelly, M.Duncan

IC: S.Motlop, J.Murdoch, T.Varcoe, B.Smedts

Emerg: J.Stringer, J.Bews, B.Hartman

IN: S.Johnson, H.McIntosh, J.Rivers, A.Christensen, J.Caddy, S.Kersten

OUT: H.Taylor (knee), D.Simpson (managed), J.Stringer, G.Horlin-Smith (back), B.Hartman, D.Lang

FREMANTLE v BRISBANE LIONS

Saturday, June 21 at Patersons Stadium, 7.40pm (EST)

DOCKERS

B: L.Spurr, Z.Dawson, P.Duffield

HB: T.Mzungu, A.Silvagni, D.Pearce

C: D.Mundy, R.Crowley, N.Suban

HF: L.Neale, C.Mayne, N.Fyfe

F: H.Ballantyne, M.Pavlich, Z.Clarke

Foll: A.Sandilands, M.Barlow, S.Hill

I/C: C.Sylvia, C.Pearce, G.Ibbotson, C.Sutcliffe

Emg: T.Sheridan, B.Grey, M.Taberner

In: C.Pearce

Out: T.Sheridan

LIONS

B: J.Clarke, M.Maguire, J.Patfull

HB: R.Harwood, S.Mayes, J.Adcock

C: R.Bewick, T.Rockliff, D.Zorko

HF: L.Taylor, D.Merrett, M.Paparone

F: Z.O'Brien, M.Close, J.Green

Foll: S.Martin, J.Redden, C.Beams

I/C: T.Cutler, P.Hanley, D.Gardiner, N.Robertson

Emg: A.Raines, R.Lester, D.McStay

In: D.Merrett, N.Robertson, T.Cutler

Out: J.Brown (concussion), M.Golby, J.Aish (rested)

Age shall not weary Dustin Fletcher, who returns for Essendon. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

ESSENDON v ADELAIDE CROWS

Saturday, June 21 at Etihad Stadium, 7.40pm (EST)

BOMBERS

B: M.Baguley, D.Fletcher, M.Hurley

HB: M.Hibberd, C.Hooker, C.Dempsey

C: B.Stanton, H.Hocking, D.Heppell

HF: B.Goddard, T.Bellchambers, D.Zaharakis

F: J.Winderlich, J.Daniher, Z.Merrett

F: P.Ryder, J.Melksham, D.Myers

I/C: E.Kavanagh, P.Ambrose, B.Howlett, T.Colyer

Emg: K.Hardingham, C.Dell'Olio, J.Merrett

In: T.Colyer, D.Fletcher

Out: P.Chapman (rested), J.Carlisle (knee soreness)

CROWS

B: D.Talia, B.Rutten, L.Brown

HB: M.Jaensch, J.Podsiadly, D.Mackay

C: S.Kerridge, S.Thompson, B.Smith

HF: M.Wright, A.Otten, J.Jenkins

F: E.Betts, P.Dangerfield, T.Walker

Foll: S.Jacobs, R.Sloane, R.Douglas

I/C: B.Reilly, J.Lyons, B.Martin, R.Laird

Emg: L.Thompson, J.Porplyzia, R.Atkins

In: J.Lyons

Out: M.Crouch

GWS GIANTS v CARLTON

Sunday, June 22 at Spotless Stadium, 1.30pm (EST)

GIANTS

B: T.Bugg, P.Davis, H.Shaw

HB: J.Hunt, T.Mohr, S.Frost

C: W.Hoskin-Elliott, A.Treloar, T.Scully

HF: L.Whitfield, J.Patton, C.Ward

F: J.Cameron, A.Tomlinson, D.Smith

Foll: S.Mumford, R.Palmer, D.Shiel

IC: A.Kennedy, J.Kelly, S.Coniglio, T.Boyd, J.Townsend, K.Jaksch, N.Wilson

IN: A.Kennedy, K.Jaksch, T.Boyd

OUT: Nil

BLUES

B: S.White, S.Rowe, M.Jamison

HB: A.Walker, Z.Tuohy, C.Yarran

C: K.Simpson, B.Gibbs, A.Everitt

HF: D.Thomas, J.Waite, M.Robinson

F: T.Menzel, L.Casboult, C.Judd

Foll: R.Warnock, M.Murphy, A.Carrazzo

Inter: S.Docherty, E.Curnow, N.Graham, D.Armfield, B.McLean, L.Henderson, B.Johnson

IN: M.Jamison, E.Curnow, L.Henderson, B.Johnson

OUT: M.Watson

James Gwilt returns for St Kilda, but at the expense of Josh Bruce. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

ST KILDA v WEST COAST EAGLES

Sunday, June 22 at Etihad Stadium, 3.20pm (EST)

SAINTS

B: C.Shenton, L.Delaney, S.Dempster

HB: J.Webster, J.Gwilt, B.Murdoch

C: J.Newnes, L.Hayes, F.Ray

HF: T.Milera, N.Riewoldt, D.Armitage

F: J.Billings, T.Lee, T.Simpkin

Foll: B.Longer, J.Steven, L.Montagna

IC: S.Ross, S.Savage, R.Stanley, C.Jones, M.Weller, D.Minchington, S.Dunell

IN: J.Gwilt, T.Milera, R.Stanley, S.Savage, D.Minchington, S.Dunell

OUT: J.Bruce, L.Dunstan (shoulder), J.Saunders

EAGLES

B: W.Schofield, E.Mackenzie, J.Bennell

HB: B.Sheppard, M.Brown, S.Hurn

C: M.Rosa, M.Priddis, C.Masten

HF: S.Butler, JJ.Kennedy, J.Darling

F: S.Wellingham, J.McGovern, M.LeCras

Foll: N.Naitanui, M.Hutchings, A.Gaff

IC: X.Ellis, J.Hill, J.Brennan, J.Cripps

Emerg: P.McGinnity, S.Lycett, L.Shuey

IN: J.Hill, L.Shuey, J.Brennan, P.McGinnity

OUT: E.Yeo (hand)

MELBOURNE DEMONS v NORTH MELBOURNE

Sunday, June 22 at the MCG, 4.40pm (EST)

DEMONS

B: C.Garland, L.Dunn, N.Jetta

HB: J.Howe, T.McDonald, J.Grimes

C: B.Vince, J.Viney, D.Cross

HF: R.Bail, J.Frawley, C.Pedersen

F: D.Kent, C.Dawes, J.Watts

Foll: M.Jamar, N.Jones, D.Tyson

IC: M.Jones, A.Riley, J.McKenzie, C.Salem, S.Blease, D.Nicholson, D.Terlich

IN D.Terlich, S.Blease, D.Nicholson

OUT: Nil

KANGAROOS

B: L.McDonald, S.Thompson, L.Hansen

HB: S.Atley, M.Firrito, A.Mullett

C: S.Gibson, A.Swallow, L.Greenwood

HF: N.Dal Santo, R.Tarrant, B.Harvey

F: A.Black, D.Petrie, L.Thomas

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

Inter: L.Anthony, B.McKenzie, R.Bastinac, L.Adams, B.Brown, R.Nahas, T.Dumont

IN: B.Brown, B.McKenzie, T.Dumont

OUT: Nil

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New Carlton president to stamp own Blueprint

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MARK LoGiudice reads from the same hymn book as his predecessor Stephen Kernahan.

The subject is Bruce Mathieson, the billionaire supporter who wields power from Queensland and whose pronouncements, especially when the Blues underperform, can be explosive.

LoGiudice received Mathieson's imprimatur as the man to take over the presidency at Carlton, but he says he ain't no Mathieson puppet, nor is Mathieson too powerful at Carlton.

"Bruce Mathieson is a life member and partner of the Carlton Football Club, he's a passionate supporter of the club and Bruce is entitled to his opinion," LoGiudice said.

Loguidice would prefer if powerbroker Bruce Mathieson would keep his opinions to himself. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: News Corp Australia

"Obviously, I would prefer he didn't voice his opinions (publicly)."

The pres has spoken to Mathieson about that.

"I don't think it's matter of reining in, or us telling him what to do, or him telling us what to do, it's more about what is in the best interests of the Carlton Football Club.

"We've had discussions and I've asked and encouraged him, that if he does have an opinion on something, to pick up the telephone and give me a call.''

GIBBS' FUTURE IN HANDS OF BLUES BOARD

BIG NICK THE GREATEST BLUE OF ALL

In a 45-minute interview with the Herald Sun, LoGiudice is constant on the ''Carlton Football Club'' and ''in the best interests of the Carlton Football Club''.

Off the field, it's about increasing memberships and managing culture change.

He says the Carlton board, which has been the subject of speculation in recent times, was stable and that the size — it will be 10 at the end of the season _ was not an issue.

"There has been a lot discussion about our board,'' he said. "It's not necessary to harp on about the board number, it's more about the quality."

He dismissed the suggestion there were factions.

"That's a beat up the media," he said.

Asked if he knew of a challenge to the board and his presidency, he said: "Only what I've read and heard.

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"There's no need for a challengers and tickets, that's not in the best interests of the Carlton Football Club.

"If there's people out there who are passionate, have the ability, the time and have the motivation, and by that I mean the best interests of Carlton Football Club at heart, they don't need to run tickets and challenges, they just need to come and talk. My door is always open for talk."

LoGiudice chairs his first Carlton board meeting on Monday night.

At 45, he's a lifelong Blues supporter, following his dad Sebastian to become a 20-year member of the influential Carltonians coterie club.

He became a board member and ultimately the president because he had "a passion and desire to have the Carlton Football Club succeed on and off the field".

Carlton became the family's team when his father arrived in Australian as a 14-year-old from Italy.

Loguidice will chair his first board meeting on Monday. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: News Corp Australia

Dad was the youngest of eight kids and he and his sister, Lidia, who was then 15, came by boat to look for their older brother, who they found living in North Carlton.

Later, Sebastian met Nella in a Moonee Ponds real estate agents office, married, and had Mark and two girls.

The family grew up in Templestowe and used to travel to Princes Park to watch the mighty Blues.

LoGiudice wore No. 9 and No. 1 as young man, supporting heroes Ken Hunter and Stephen Silvagni.

"We used to get dropped off at the back, come in and enjoy the game," he said.

"They are great memories ... Ken Hunter, (Mark) Maclure, Wayne Harmes and Rod Ashman."

To become president, he says, is an honour but is quick to note change is needed.

"The club has great foundations, solid foundations, and I think we need to build on those foundations to get greater success than what we've had to date,'' he said.

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"We need to manage a bit of culture change. When I say culture I refer to things like getting the best people into the football club, improve the way we we do things, for example improving recruitment and development of our players, improve financial stability, we need to improve process, strategy and governance.''

Membership is a priority off the field, and recruitment and development on it.

"Membership is one of the areas we have identified. We have to improve our communication with our members and supporters . it includes the entire football club."

Asked about coach Mick Malthouse's sometimes prickly public persona, he said: "I'm not here to tell people how to speak. We have a strategy in place, that may change as we go along, but at the end of the day, we're all on the same path, the path of success."

"I'm not going to sit here and say we're going to win a flag in the next period of time, that's not what this is about. There's no quick fix."

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Casualty ward: Fifita out for six weeks

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IN bad news for Cronulla, Andrew Fifita has injured his wrist at training keeping him out of the game for six weeks.

The Sharks are yet to reveal how the injury occurred and are yet to release a detailed statement, only mentioning it when announcing their team for the round 15 clash against the Sea Eagles.

"In a continuation of his wretched year, Andrew Fifita has his wrist in a cast and has been ruled out for a period of up to six weeks after a training accident. Siosaia Vave, who has done a solid job in the absence of Fifita, will start in the front row against the Sea Eagles."

Fifita had been expected to make his return this week from an ankle injury but that has now been delayed.

Canterbury duo Sam Perrett and David Klemmer are also expected to be sidelined for around six weeks due to injuries suffered in Sunday's loss to Parramatta.

Both Perrett and Klemmer left the field in the first half of the Eels' 22-12 win and didn't return.

The Bulldogs confirmed on Monday that fullback Perrett suffered a medial ligament injury in his knee which will likely rule him out of NRL action until round 20.

Interchange forward Klemmer suffered a syndesmosis injury which means he is also unlikely to return to the field before round 20.

David Klemmer injures his ankle. Source: Getty Images

The news is another blow to the Bulldogs who have dropped three games straight and fallen from the NRL competition lead, after emerging as the in-form team in the first half of the season with seven successive wins.

The Bulldogs face another test against Canberra in the nation's capital on Friday, with their NSW halves Trent Hodkinson and Josh Reynolds set to back up just 48 hours after State of Origin II. Prop Aidan Tolman missed the Eels match with a hamstring injury and is a 50/50 proposition to take on Canberra.

Canterbury also have Josh Morris (knee) sidelined until round 18 and Frank Pritchard has been ruled out for the season with a pectoral muscle injury.

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ROUND 14 CASUALTY WARD

Joel Reddy (Quad, TBC) - pre-game

Bryson Goodwin (Elbow, TBC) - pre-game

George Burgess (Ankle, TBC)

Joe Picker (Concussion, round 15)

Krisome Auva'a (Ankle, TBC)

Dene Halatau (Concussion, round 16)

Tyson Frizell (Ankle, TBC)

Kevin Naiqama (Cramp, round 16)

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (Concussion, round 16)

Jeremy Smith (Collarbone, TBC)

Manu Ma'u (Broken arm, TBC)

Sam Perrett (Knee, TBC)

David Klemmer (Ankle, TBC)

Albert Kelly (Leg, TBC) - pre-game

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FULL NRL INJURY LIST

Brisbane Broncos

Ashley Taylor (Shoulder, Round 18)

Mitchell Dodds (Knee, Season)

Martin Kennedy (Calf, Round 18)

Canberra Raiders

Edrick Lee (Foot, Season)

Jeff Lynch (Knee, Season)

Joel Edwards (Fractured cheekbone, Round 16)

Tom Learoyd-Lahrs (Knee, Round 18)

Josh Papalii (Ankle, Round 18)

Paul Vaughan (Suspension, Round 16)

Canterbury Bulldogs

Frank Pritchard (Pectoral, Season)

Moses Mbye (Foot, Round 20)

Josh Morris (Knee, Round 19)

Sam Perrett (Knee, Round 21)

Chase Stanley (Knee, Round 18)

Aiden Tolman (Hamstring, Round 15)

David Klemmer (Ankle, Round 21)

Cronulla Sharks

Andrew Fifita (Wrist, Round 21)

Luke Lewis (Knee, Round 15)

John Morris (Neck, Indefinite)

Eric Grothe Jr (Back, Round 15)

Todd Carney (Hamstring, Round 15)

Anthony Tupou (Ribs, Round 15)

Matt Prior (Back, Round 15)

Sosaia Feki (Hamstring, Round 15)

Jonathan Wright (Hamstring, Round 15)

Ricky Leutele (Knee, Round 15)

Jeff Robson (Hamstring, Round 15)

Gold Coast Titans

Aidan Sezer (Pectoral, Round 24)

Jamie Dowling (Knee, Season)

Ashley Harrison (Neck/concussion, Round 14)

Beau Falloon (Back, Round 14)

Paul Carter (Stood down, Round 17)

Albert Kelly (Leg, Round 16)

Manly Sea Eagles

Glenn Stewart (Ankle, Round 15)

Daly Cherry-Evans (Knee, Round 15)

Jamie Lyon (Hamstring, Round 15)

Melbourne Storm

Justin O'Neill (Knee, Round 20)

Richard Kennar (Hip, Round 17)

Cooper Cronk (Broken arm, Round 19)

Billy Slater (Shoulder, Round 15)

Matt Duffie (ACL, Season)

Mitchell Garbutt (Knee, Round 20)

Slade Griffin (ACL, Season)

Joel Romelo (Ankle, Round 14)

Dayne Weston (Neck, Round 15)

Cody Walker (Hamstring, Round 16)

New Zealand Warriors

Thomas Leuluai (Groin, Indefinite)

Ben Henry (Knee, Indefinite)

Glen Fisiiahi (Shoulder, Round 15)

Sione Lousi (Knee, Round 15)

Kevin Locke (Ankle, Indefinite)

Newcastle Knights

Alex McKinnon (Fractured neck, Season)

Joey Leilua (Throat, Indefinite)

Marvin Filipo (Arm, Round 15)

Kade Snowden (Suspension, Round 16)

Adam Cuthbertson (Knee, Round 18)

Jeremy Smith (Collarbone, Indefinite)

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North QLD Cowboys

Lachlan Coote (ACL, Season)

Patrick Kaufusi(Pectoral, Season)

Gavin Cooper (Dislocated hip, Round 22)

Cameron King (Knee, Season)

Tariq Sims (Suspension, Round 15)

Parramatta Eels

Jacob Loko (Knee, Indefinite)

Nathan Peats (ACL, Season)

Darcy Lussick (Knee cap, Round 15)

Kaysa Pritchard (Shoulder, Round 15)

Mitchell Allgood (Suspension, Round 15)

Manu Ma'u (Broken arm, Indefinite)

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Penrith Panthers

Jamal Idris (Personal leave, Indefinite)

David Simmons (Knee, Round 20)

Isaac John (Achilles, Season)

George Jennings (Dislocated elbow, Season)

Kevin Naiqama (Cramp, Round 16)

Adam Docker (Concussion, Round 16)

Nathan Smith (Back, Round 18)

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (Suspension, Round 18)

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South Sydney Rabbitohs

Kirisome Auav'a (Ankle, Indefinite)

Bryson Goodwin (Elbow, Indefinite)

George Burgess (Ankle, Indefinite)

Beau Champion (Wrist, Indefinite)

Aaron Gray (Knee, Round 24)

Joel Reddy (Quad, Indefinite)

Dylan Walker (Broken hand, Round 20)

Joe Picker (Concussion, Round 16)

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St George Illawarra Dragons

Dylan Farrell (Pectoral, Round 18)

Jack Stockwell (Foot, Round 16)

Brett Morris (Dislocated shoulder, Round 21)

Kyle Stanley (Hamstring, Indefinite)

Michael Witt (Knee, Season)

Dan Hunt (Groin, Indefinite)

Tyson Frizell (Ankle, Indefinite)

Sydney Roosters

Boyd Cordner (Ankle, Round 17)

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (Concussion, Round 16)

Wests Tigers

Tim Moltzen (Knee, Indefinite)

Dene Halatau (Concussion, Round 16)

Liam Fulton (Concussion, Round 16)

Cory Paterson (Finger, Indefinite)

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Players confident of beating drug bans

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ESSENDON players left Monday's meeting with lawyers confident they would beat claims they took banned drugs.

One of the lawyers acting for the players, David Grace, QC, told the players they should be ''very confident'' evidence they took thymosin beta 4 would not stand up.

It's believed Grace was responding to a question from one of the players.

SOMEONE'S BLUFFING AT THE DRUGS SAGA TABLE

AFL CLUBS FACE PROBES ON SUPPLEMENTS

ASADA MUST FREEZE PROBE

In what was a wideranging discussion, the players are understood to be confused about the show cause notices which alleged they received thymosin beta 4 from former sports scientist Stephen Dank, amid claims not one player admitted to using TB 4 in their interviews with ASADA and AFL investigators.

The point being the players had effectively already answered the show cause allegation.

At their initial interviews, it's believed a handful of players admitted to using thymosin. Others are believed to have answered vaguely with ''I don't know'', that "rings a bell'', "it's familiar''.

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The Bombers believe the thymosin the players took was the safe version, called thymomodulin.

ASADA can issue a show cause if it believes there has been a possible breach of doping rules.

In this case, they are more pointed, alleging the players took TB 4 and ASADA believe its legal advice, contrary to Essendon's, is strong.

The players are understood to be angry at what they believe was an insinuation at the weekend by ASADA boss Ben McDevitt that they didn't fully tell the truth at their initial interviews with ASADA and AFL investigators.

McDevitt said at the weekend: "We still need to know that the players have been honest and fulsome and fully co-­operative.''

The anger comes because the players are aware ASADA has said the majority of the players fully co-operated in their initial interviews.

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A source close to the players said no player would accept ASADA's inducement of a six-month penalty if they now co-operated, a stance backed by Essendon chairman Paul Little.

Essendon lawyers, meanwhile, are seeking a commitment from ASADA to freeze its investigation into the players until the club's Federal Court challenge to the legality of the probe is resolved.

Coach James Hird has also made a similar request, via his lawyers.

It was reported yesterday the players have not ruled out joining the case against ASADA.

A source close to the players said yesterday the players were bemused that discussion on the anti-obesity drug, AOD-9604, had disappeared.

Articles criticising Essendon and its players for the ­alleged use of AOD-9604 won awards last year.

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At the time, AOD-9604 was considered an evil combination of numbers and letters and was widely reported to be a banned drug, which fuelled the "drug cheats'' landscape.

It was officially banned midway through 2013, but was not banned when the players used it in early 2012.

Sixteen months after the ­investigation began, which included claims the players and officials would be grilled about 35 drugs and supplements, the players have being asked to ­answer just one allegation — the use of TB-4.

Essendon claims there is no proof the players took it despite text messages between drug supplier Shane Charter and Dank, which included the ordering of "Thymosin'' vials.

ASADA says its proof is strong and the authority is prepared for a legal stoush.

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Dutch genius begins to blossom

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HE'S Manchester United-bound, just masterminded a 5-1 trouncing of World Cup champions Spain and now Louis van Gaal's sophisticated tactical web must be untangled by Ange Postecoglou and his Socceroos.

The Dutchman with a modest playing career announced himself in 1995 when he led a young Ajax to Champions League glory and since it's been a mixed bag.

Perhaps unfairly, he was identified by his two bitter divorces with Barcelona plus failing to qualify an outrageously talented Dutch side for the 2002 World Cup.

But turning 63 in August, he appears to be in his prime.

Australian-born keeper Joey Didulica was signed by van Gaal for $3m in 2006 and was his no.1 until a shocking collision saw him miss almost two years.

"I've had some good coaches but he was the only one who could pick apart a game and then change it in a five-minute half-time speech,'' said Didulica, whose former coaches include Germany's Joachim Loew and Ronald Koeman.

"He's a master of the game, a tactical genius. He knows football on a different level to most coaches.

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"He's a perfectionist, he's hard working and he's big on the minor details.

"Some call him a dictator. From the gear steward to lady making the dinners, he want to be in control.''

It's this stubborn streak which has led to most of his conflicts and raised questions about his coaching longevity.

He quit after his first stint at Barcelona, where he displayed his famous disdain for journalists: "Friends of the press, I am leaving. Congratulations.''

There he butted heads with some of the stars, including Brazilian Rivaldo.

Louis van Gaal celebrates with Robin van Persie after the star striker scored against Spain. Picture: Manu Fernandez. Source: AP

His 2002 World Cup failure was followed by a second stint at Barcelona - he lasted half a season before he was sacked.

He was then appointed technical director of Ajax, a role that was never going to work.

The last straw was when he sanctioned the sale of Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Juventus on the eve of the 2004-05 season, leaving coach Ronald Koeman furious.

Next season he joined AZ, where he started coaching as a playing-assistant in 1986.

"He can't be a sports director and I think he realised he needs to be on the pitch making decisions,'' Didulica said.

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"When he came to AZ, it wasn't the last straw but there were a lot of questions about whether he his time was up and if he could handle the new generation.

"But when he won the league at AZ (2008-09) that got him back on the map.

"We scored over 100 goals and conceded 24, then going to Bayern Munich got him back on the world map.''

Van Gaal, who will be replaced by Guus Hiddink as Dutch national team coach after the World Cup, signed fellow Aussie Brett Holman at AZ from NEC Nijmegen in 2008 for $5m.

Holman, who retired from the Socceroos on the eve of the World Cup, said his training sessions were spectacular.

"It was a tough time, I didn't play a lot, but I still learnt so much,'' Holman said.

"His sessions were unbelievable, he's a manager I actually sat there and took notes from they were that good.

"He makes players better and he changed and won games with his tactics.''

Questions were still raised a week before the World Cup, when the Dutch produced a lackluster performance against Wales.

"After Euro 2012 they put in a whole new generation and a lot of these guys won the U17 Euros a couple of years ago,'' FFA technical director, Dutchman Han Berger said.

"There was a lot of criticism about that in Holland because he abandoned the traditional playing style.''

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While van Gaal cares little about popular opinion, his style is abrasive and he's fallen out with many in his time, he does form special bonds.

He and Arjen Robben were tight during their time together at Bayern Munich, where van Gaal won the German League-Cup double and got to the 2009-10 Champions league final.

And despite talk of tension between he and Robin van Persie, it did not seem that way in the win over Spain.

"I think he'll go well at Man United. Bayern were at crossroads, but he got things back on track,'' Didulica said.

"I think van Persie will play a big part in that. You saw with the high five with van Gaal after the goal, that was a signal of respect.''

While United fans might be beaming, happy Dutch stars do not augur well for the Socceroos ahead of tomorrow's clash in Porto Alegre.

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Who is the best mark in AFL?

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AFL ROUND 13 might have seen the goal of the year thanks to Eddie Betts' audacious snap from the pocket at the Adelaide Oval and Buddy's five-goal blitz was breathtaking, but for the footy purests, the most promising highlight came in the very first game.

Levi Casboult's towering mark was impressive for its power, level of difficulty and unfortunately, for its rarity in the modern game.

Levi Casboult crashes the pack to pull down this mark. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

Casboult — all 100kg of him — crashed through a pack of players like they were pins in a bowling alley, to haul down the mark and kick one of his four goals for the night.

The high mark is one the hallmark features of our game and one of the crucial elements of its individuality, however in the modern game this spectacular skill is being rarer.

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Boomers Dream Team on hold

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AUSTRALIA'S version of the Dream Team will have to wait until the Brazil Olympics with Andrew Bogut ruling himself out of this year's basketball World Cup.

The Golden State Warriors centre is still battling to overcome a broken rib and ankle injury as he prepares for 11th season in the NBA.

"It's a tough one for me," Bogut told The Daily Telegraph.

"I could play but it would jeopardise my main goal which is playing in the Olympics (Brazil). Unfortunately to get there I have to give something up and it will be the worlds this year."

"My rib is not 100 per cent and I'm still not back into full training. I can't see myself playing through the Worlds and a full NBA season."

The No.1 draft pick from 2005 admits the challenge of playing a decade in the world's best basketball league and battling a continuous run of injuries has also affected his decision to miss the World Cup, which take place in Spain in August and September.

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"It's been a huge grind for my physically and mentally with the injuries," Bogut said.

"I've spent the last three or four seasons rehabbing injuries so this is the first time I can get focused on getting in the gym and getting better."

Like all Australian basketball fans Bogut was fixed to his TV on Monday watching Patty Mills and Aron Baynes become the latest Aussies to become NBA champions.

"It's great for the game here in Australia and they thoroughly deserve it," Bogut said.

"Patty Mills has had a great season and Finals series and going into free agency so hopefully he will get a good contract out of it and Baynesy as well."

Andrew Bogut is battling a broken rib and ankle injury. Source: News Limited

Australia's basketball stocks are their best in more than a decade. Mills and Baynes have championship rings, Matthew Dellavedova impressing at the Cleveland Cavaliers, Dante Exum on target to be a top five pick in the draft and high schooler Ben Simmons another super prospect.

"It's an exciting time for the game in Australia," Bogut said.

"There is a lot of upside for the team with a lot of young guys coming into the team."

Currently at home in Melbourne, the Warriors centre had a surprise visit from his new coach Steve Kerr.

"It showed a lot of respect to come here and see me," Bogut said.

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"He had some good things to say about the direction of the team and what he wants to do. I'm really excited about Steve.

"The question is that he hasn't coached before but the way he spoke to me when he was here it seemed like he knew what he was doing."

Kerr also caught up with Luc Longley, who he won three championships with at Chicago and Andrew Gaze, who he won one with at the Spurs.

Bogut is hoping he can join them as another Australian to team up with Kerr and win a ring.

"It would be nice if it happened I would definitely love that," Bogut said.

"We have a roster that can push to get there. We all need to be on the same page and the Spurs have shown that you don't need a team full of superstars to win."

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Burgess ties for lead in Dally M battle

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THE battle for the 2014 Dally M medal is on in earnest as Sam Burgess draws level with Jarryd Hayne at the top of the leaderboard.

Burgess's man-of-the-match display in the Rabbitohs victory over the Tigers earned him the maximum three points with he and Hayne now locked on 18 points each at the midway point of the season.

They are two clear of the Cowboys' Johnathan Thurston with the Broncos's Ben Hunt and the Bulldogs Josh Reynolds a further point back on 15.

Also earning three points for their exploits in round 14 were the Panthers' Josh Mansour who caused havoc for the Dragons from the wing, Roosters prop Sam Moa, who led from the front for the Roosters, while Chris Sandow was a revelation filling in for Jarryd Hayne at fullback.

CORRECTION: Last week Jarryd Hayne's three Dally M points he received in State of Origin I. That was incorrect and Hayne's points have been adjusted accordingly.

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Round 14

Rabbitohs v Tigers

Judge: Andrew Johns

3 S Burgess (SOU)

2 G Burgess (SOIU)

1 A Johnston (SOU)

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Panthers v Dragons

Judge: Gary Belcher

3 J Mansour (PEN)

2 G Widdop (SGI)

1 B Kite (PEN)

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Roosters v Knights

Judge: Mark Gasnier

3 S Moa (SYD)

2 D Napa (SYD)

1 J Mamo (NEW)

Bulldogs v Eels

Judge: Brad Fittler

3 C Sandow (PAR)

2 P Pauli (PAR)

1 J Graham (CTB)

Titans v Storm

Judge: Ben Ikin

3 J Bromwich (MEL)

2 B Roberts (MEL)

1 M Minichiello (GCT)

Sam Burgess led from the front in the Rabbitohs victory over the Tigers. Source: Getty Images

LEADERBOARD

18 J Hayne (PAR)

18 S Burgess (SOU)

16 J Thurston (NQL)

15 B Hunt (BRI)

15 J Reynolds (CTB)

14 D Cherry-Evans (MAN)

12 C Sandow (PAR)

12 R Farah (WST)

12 G Widdop (STI)

10 G Burgess (SOU)

10 C Cronk (MEL)

11 M Gillett (BRI)

9 J Bromwich (MEL)

9 D Walker (SOU)

9 A Milford (CAN)

9 A Woods (WST)

9 T Hodkinson (CTB)

9 T Merrin (STI)

9 G Bird (GC)

9 P Wallace (PEN)

9 G Inglis (SOU)

9 J Graham (CTB)

8 L Brooks (WST)

8 J Mansour (PEN)

8 M Scott (NQL)

8 C Smith (MEL)

8 J Tedesco (WST)

7 M Pearce (SYD)

7 SB Williams (SYD)

6 S Moa (SYD)

6 S Thaiday (BRI)

6 E Taylor (PEN)

6 S Johnson (NZ)

6 B Slater (MEL)

6 N Myles (GCT)

6 A Kelly (GC)

6 S Tomkins (NZ)

6 B Matulino (NZ)

6 K Foran (MAN)

5 N Peats (PAR)

5 W Graham (CRO)

5 S Matai (MAN)

5 A Sezer (GC)

5 J Croker (CAN)

5 B Stewart (MAN)

5 T Peachey (PEN)

5 J Segeyaro (PEN)

5 C Parker (BRI)

5 S Radradra (PAR)

7 J Soward (PEN)

4 B Cordner (SYD)

4 J Dugan (STG)

4 J Sutton (SOU)

4 J Lillyman (NZ)

4 J Waerea- Hargreaves (SYD)

4 T Carney (CRO)

4 B. Scott (NEW)

7 S Mannering (NZ)

4 J Leilua (NEW)

4 A Tolman (CTB)

4 D Mead (GCT)

4 J Jackson (CTB)

4 M Morgan (NQL)

3 W Mason (NEW)

3 Robert Lui (NQL)

3 J Friend (SYD)

3 A Glenn (BRI)

3 J McGuire (BRI)

3 B Hampton (MEL)

3 M Ma'u (PAR)

3 T Campese (CAN)

3 J Taumalolo (NQL)

3 S Fensom (CAN)

3 K Hurrell (NZ)

3 M Moylan (PEN)

3 B Marshall (STG)

3 M Gordon (CRO)

3 T Williams (CTB)

3 J Wighton (CAN)

3 A McCullough (BRI)

3 P Gallen (CRO)

3 D Taylor (GCT)

3 B Tate (NQL)

2 C Norman (PAR)

2 F Nuuausala (SYD)

2 G Stewart (MAN)

3 D Tupou (SYD)

2 B Thompson (WST)

2 T Sims (NQL)

2 J Tamou (NQL)

2 D Boyd (NEW)

2 R Tuivasa-Sheck (SYD)

2 P Pauli (PAR)

2 J Buhrer (MAN)

2 A Watmough (MAN)

2 S Perrett (CTB)

2 A Guerra (SYD)

2 D Gagai (NEW)

2 A Minichiello (SYD)

2 A Fifita (CRO)

2 M Taupau (WST)

2 T Roberts (NEW)

2 M Rein (STG)

2 P Hiku (MAN)

2 B Lawrence (MAN)

2 B Kite (PEN)

2 B Barba (BRI)

2 D Napa (SYD)

2 A Reynolds (SOU)

2 B Roberts (MEL)

1 D Copley (BRI)

1 B Takairangi (GCT)

1 M Jennings (SYD)

1 L Maranta (BRI)

1 N Plum (PEN)

1 J Papalii (CAN)

1 J Lyon (MAN)

1 M Ballin (MAN)

1 D Shillington (CAN)

1 M Dobson (NEW)

1 D Farrell (STG)

4 J Maloney (SYD)

1 N Stapleton (CRO)

1 A Koriosau (SOU)

1 J Gavet (WST)

1 W Chambers (MEL)

1 A Blair (WST)

1 J Taufua (MAN)

1 R Rochow (NEW)

1 P Carter (GCT)

1 W Hopoate (PAR)

1 G Buttriss (CAN)

1 J McCrone (CAN)

1 N Friend (NZ)

1 E Taylor (PEN)

1 K Mann (MEL)

1 A Johnston (SOU)

1 J Mamo (NEW)

1 M Minichiello (GCT)

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