Mitcham slams Russia's anti-gay law

Olympic gold medallist Matthew Mitcham. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: DailyTelegraph

OLYMPIAN Matthew Mitcham says new Russian laws, which would see athletes at next year's Sochi Winter Olympics jailed if they are involved in any type of gay pride activities, are "horrific".

The Russian government has warned those who wear a rainbow pin or T-shirt or wave the gay pride flag face jail terms under laws signed off by President Vladimir Putin in June. Even gay couples holding hands is illegal.

The gold medal-winning diver from the 2008 Beijing Games said the laws were in violation of basic human rights.

"It's really sad," Mitcham said.

"The way they are persecuting people in Russia is quite horrific."

Mitcham said Russia's stance would hinder performances and take away the joy of the Games experience.

"The Olympics is the best experience you will ever have as an athlete," he said.

"Their whole memory and experience is going to be marred by this stuff. They are going to be made to feel unacceptable, inappropriate, and it is a really awful, awful feeling.

"The Olympics are supposed to be somewhere where they can go to be relieved of that feeling.

"A place where you can compete and feel that gender and sexuality is not an issue."

The International Olympic Committee said it had "received assurances from the highest level of government in Russia that the legislation will not affect those attending or taking part in the Games".

But Russia's Sports Minister Vitaly L. Mutko said Olympic athletes travelling to Russia would be expected to obey the new law.

Australian Olympic Committee spokesman Mike Tancred said they supported the IOC's statement but would encourage their athletes to respect Russian law.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Stars will land on the cap-heap

Anthony Minichiello, captain of the Sydney Roosters. Source: Matt King / Getty Images

IF ever there was a reason for an urgent inquest into the NRL salary cap, this is it.

While the rich get richer, rugby league's foot soldiers - made up of more than 60 NRL players - have just five weeks to save their careers.

The list ranges from former Test stars, premiership-winners, 200-plus game performers and players on less than $80,000.

The brutal truth of the situation is that more than half will end up on rugby league's scrapheap.

The NRL have been harassed in recent weeks to loosen the cap in order to lure rugby union's Israel Folau, Kurtley Beale and Quade Cooper to the game, but this story is about the players that prop the entire game up week-in and week-out.

Despite Newcastle's Craig Gower proving at 35 in his comeback to the NRL that age is just a number, the likes of Anthony Minichiello, David Stagg, Matt Bowen, Luke O'Donnell, Ben Ross and Willie Tonga head a long list of players who could be forced into retirement.

An unprecedented number of elite players signing with clubs in 2013 is one of the major reasons for the talent overflow this year.

Sixty per cent of every club's $5.15 million salary cap goes to top 10 players from each team. The top three players of every club's roster suck up 25 per cent of the cap. That leaves just 15 per cent of the cap for the rest of every club's top-25 roster.

It has been a seller's market for next season with the likes of representative stars Johnathan Thurston ($1 million), Robbie Farah ($850,000), Jarryd Hayne ($800,000), Todd Carney ($700,000), Gareth Widdop ($620,000) and Josh Reynolds ($600,000) in a position to nominate the biggest salaries of their careers.

A percentage increase of the recent $1 billion TV deal which was also written into the majority of elite players' contracts has also impacted how much money is remaining in every club's salary cap while the depreciating UK Super League competition and the poor English pound is no longer considered a last chance saloon for players.

After canvassing opinion from NRL club chief executives, coaches and player agents, The Sunday Telegraph can reveal the faces the NRL should remember when they conduct an "extensive review" of the cap during the off season.

Steve Gillis, a player agent with over 30 years experience in the game who has managed the careers of Laurie Daley, Petero Civoniceva, John Sutton and Brett Finch, described the situation as tragic.

"It's a tragedy that these guys have contributed over many years to build the product and the value of the game for the gain of the new TV deal, but then they face getting squeezed as a result of the elite players getting a larger slice of the pie," Gillis said.

"It's something that the RLPA need to urgently address with Jim Doyle.

"I think we need to urgently investigate making allowances for bottom-tier players to earn match payments irrespective of the implications they have on the cap.

"These are the guys that have spilt blood, sweat and tears to encapsulate the new TV deal yet they're getting funnelled to the bottom.

"The game is rewarding the elite."

For the many players that are refusing to believe the dream is over, the next six weeks represents everything as they attempt to prove they are worth another shot.

Manly's David Williams is one player who looks set to continue his career in NRL despite still being without a deal for 2014. Manly are eager to keep the former Test winger, but attention from Craig Bellamy at the Melbourne Storm could draw him away from the club.

The Broncos have also told Scott Prince and Peter Wallace they are free to negotiate with other clubs for next season while Souths' Andrew Everingham is weighing up an offer from Japanese Rugby union.

Players off contract for 2014:

KNIGHTS

Zane Tetevano, Matt Hilder, Chris Adams, Neville Costigan, Timana Tahu, Siuatonga Likiliki, Peter Mata'utia, Anthony Quinn, Ryan Stig, Josh Mantellato, Craig Gower

COWBOYS

Anthony Mitchell, Antonio Winterstein, Clint Greenshields, Scott Bolton, Glenn Hall, Blake Leary

PANTHERS

Nathan Smith, Ryan Simpkins, Cameron Ciraldo, Geoff Daniela, Danny Galea, Clint Newton, Travis Robinson

DRAGONS

Bronx Goodwin, Matt Cooper, Junior Vaivai, Leeson Ah Mau, Nathan Fien, Will Matthews, Matt Prior, Chase Stanley, Charly Runciman

SHARKS

Nathan Gardner, John Morris, Ben Pomeroy, Ben Ross, Jon Green, Stewart Mills, Mark Taufua, Matt Wright, Nathan Stapleton

RABBITOHS

Shaun Corrigan, Matt King, Thomas Burgess, Michael Crocker, Andrew Everingham

EELS

Ben Roberts, Matt Keating, Taniela Lasalo, Willie Tonga, Nathan Smith, Jake Mullaney, Pat O'Hanlon, Api Pewhairangi, Brayden Williame, Cheyse Blair, Vai Toutai

TIGERS

Marika Koriobete, Matt Groat, Joel Reddy, Matt Utai, Lote Tuqiri, Sean Meaney, Matt Bell, Masada Iosefa

ROOSTERS

Anthony Minichello, Sonny Bill Williams, Jack Bosden, Nafe Seluini

WARRIORS

Nathan Friend, Steve Rapira,Jerome Ropati

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Big changes considered for 2014

Ben Barba playing for the indigenous all stars against the NRL all stars. Source: AAP

CHIEF executives from all 16 NRL clubs will converge in Sydney on Monday to decide on a major overhaul of the 2014 pre-season, which could include the scrapping of the annual NRL and Indigenous All Stars concept and the introduction of a Super Nines tournament in New Zealand.

This year's World Cup, which will feature the game's elite, is placing pressure on the All Stars match which will be played just over two months after the World Cup final on November 30. 

The serious concern for player burnout following the World Cup features heavily throughout a 14-page document sent to all 16 clubs, which The Sunday Telegraph has obtained ahead of Monday's CEO conference at League Central.

The document explains how the NRL has agreed with the players association to undertake research into the possible impact of the World Cup on the 2014 pre-season "with a focus on the All Stars match".

The Sunday Telegraph has been told that the NRL will discuss three options surrounding the All Stars with all 16 CEO's Monday including:

* Postponing the 2014 All Stars for one year;

* Gaining a commitment to the All Stars from the game's best players, including Johnathan Thurston, Cameron Smith and Greg Inglis;

* Sacrificing the credibility of the concept by keeping the All Stars concept, but without the game's best players involved.

The CEO conference will almost certainly see all 16 clubs show a vote of confidence in the lucrative Nines tournament, which will see the winner pocket $2.2 million - more than what the NRL premiers receive.

Former Test forward Gorden Tallis, who in 2008 was named in an Indigenous Australian rugby league team of the century, said any decision to rest the All Stars match should be made for the right reasons.

"The All Stars has made some wonderful traction," Tallis said. "It's shown that it is bigger than race. It's a celebration of the game.

"The work the players do with the NRL and the Earn, Learn, Legend programs during the All Stars week has a greater impact on society than any other game that is played.

"It's a game I would have loved to have played in. Has it run its race? I don't think so."

THE NINES 

ONCE approved, the Auckland Nines will be held on February 15 and 16 at Eden Park, the home of rugby union in New Zealand. Make no mistake, the decision to stage the Nines at Eden Park is a deliberate and direct attack on rugby union's hugely popular Wellington Sevens held the weekend prior.

The Nines will allow rugby league to eat into the pie that rugby union has enjoyed for more than a decade with the Sevens. South Sydney chief executive Shane Richardson is right when he suggests that if the NRL was to reject the Nines proposal, "We'd be only handing over an advantage to another code."

Under the tournament structure, every NRL club will be randomly divided into four pools. Matches will be played in nine-minute halves. Teams will play two matches on February 15, with the next day featuring a final pool game, followed by the knock-out finals. Teams that compete in the final will play a total of six matches.

THE NUMBERS 

THE sheer logistics of transporting and accommodating16 professional NRL teams, 28 individuals (16 players and 12 staff) for up to four nights in another country is like nothing the game has confronted in its 108-year history.

The six-figure cost of 28 return economy airfares to Auckland, 15 rooms (13 twin share and two single rooms), including all meals at either the hotel or Eden Park, all transport transfers, use of training fields, gym facilities, pool and recovery facilities will be covered by Lonergan and his company.

There will even be a player's lounge, complete with Playstation, table tennis, pool tables and coffee bar.

THE PLAYERS 

TO compete in the Nine's, every club must follow a strict set of requirements when it comes to fielding a team and being eligible for the rich purse.

All 16 players selected in the Nine's squad must participate in a match during the tournament. At least 75 per cent of every Nine's squad (12 players) must be made up of players from the club's 'top 25 squad list' (based on the salary cap for 2014).

At least one player from each club's top five list (based on the salary cap for 2014) must also be included in the Nine's squad.

There will also be an expectation on every player to commit to promotional activity during the tournament.

THE RISKS 

RARELY does a week pass in rugby league that player behaviour doesn't rear its ugly head. So imagine the concern for the NRL in February when a gathering of around 260 NRL and Holden Cup players converge for up to four nights in the one city, just prior to the beginning of the 2014 season.

Some would call it a recipe for disaster.

In a bid to combat the threat of a scandal overshadowing the tournament, the NRL has negotiated to have all teams stay at different hotels in Auckland.

Every player will also have to sign a code of conduct before competing in the event.

The inclusion of the Nines into the pre-season calendar also raises concerns over player workload and the perception the season is increased.

However, with consultation of the rugby league player welfare association (RLPA), the NRL has agreed that the Nine's will replace one weekend of official trials. The fact that only one top-five player will be asked to participate will also negate the amount of World Cup and Origin players actually being involved.

THE BENEFITS 

THE list is long. Aside from every club receiving an all-expenses paid pre-season training camp, the Nines will undoubtedly increase awareness and exposure of rugby league in New Zealand. It will allow the game to grow its fan base and increase participation levels. And it's a win-win for clubs who rely more than ever on driving up their club merchandise and membership numbers.

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Live: third Ashes Test, day three

Shane Watson laughs with Kevin Pietersen after a controversial LBW appeal. Source: Getty Images

AFTER two days of dominance with the bat, it's time for Australia to try ram home their advantage with the ball on day three of the third Ashes Test.

Stick with us to get all the best reaction and analysis from social media, as well as on the spot videos provided exclusively by Fox Sports.

Join the conversation by leaving a comment in the blog below, or let us know what you think by getting in touch on Twitter, @FoxCricketLive.

If using the comment box in the blog, you can just enter a name where it says 'Display Name', or you can log in using one of your social media accounts. Get involved now!

GET THE ULTIMATE MATCH COMPANION, FEATURING VIDEO OF EVERY WICKET AND BOUNDARY, BALL-BY-BALL COMMENTARY AND HAWKEYE, IN OUR ASHES MATCH CENTRE!

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Chances blown in golden point draw

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Corey Parker of the Broncos scores a try against Newcastle. Source: Tony Feder / Getty Images

JOVIAL Newcastle coach Wayne Bennett suggested the draw was as good as a win.

His Brisbane counterpart Anthony Griffin was just as happy with his side's effort and character.

Neither side won but both camps seemingly left as winners on Friday night after a dramatic golden point match ended in an 18-all stalemate at Hunter Stadium.

Brisbane could be accused of letting the game slip after they led 18-10 with less than nine minutes left.

The Knights could be accused of wasting a glut of second half possession with aimless attack at times before finally unlocking the Broncos' defence twice in six minutes to square things up in regulation time.

In the end, had Bennett not replaced halfback and goal kicker Tyrone Roberts in those final 10 minutes, he may have landed one of the goals make-shift kicker Craig Gower missed to win his side the game.

But maybe neither side deserved to win.

Knights five-eighth Jarrod Mullen missed with four field goal attempts while Brisbane's radar was also off in the desperate final minutes with Ben Hunt and Peter Wallace failing with two attempts during golden point as the sides desperately tried to break the deadlock.

"We did what you want your football team to do. Not to give up and keep at it," Bennett said.

"As far as I'm concerned, that one point for us in the position we are in is as good as a win."

But he had this to say about golden point.

"At the end of the night, we both walked away with one point each and we get on with life.

"For the life of me, I can't see why the game doesn't stop at 80 minutes. I hope in the future we get to that point."

The Brisbane camp was upbeat after the result, even if it means they now need to win all of their five remaining games to reach the play-offs.

Prop Josh Maguire and halfback Ben Hunt were among their stars.

"I was very proud of the effort. We showed a tremendous amount of character," Griffin said.

On his team's play-off chances, skipper Sam Thaiday said: "We're coming. We're not doing any sums at the moment. We are just trying to play some tough footy."

Backrower Beau Scott crossed with eight minutes to go for the Knights to get them back into the contest before Dane Gagai put Aku Uate over in the corner with two minutes left.

With Roberts off, Gower was forced to step up.

He missed his first from a handy position before completely fluffing his sideline conversion attempt at 18-all which would have won Newcastle the game.

After a horror start to the game, Brisbane recovered to dominate the back end of the first half to lead the Knights 12-6 at the break.

Newcastle, who lost winger James McManus with a back injury in the build up, looked on their game early after catching the Broncos napping down their right edge.

McManus's replacement Kevin Naiqama was put into space by his centre Joey Leilua with the play breaking down 10 metres from Brisbane's line.

But from the play-the-ball, Jarrod Mullen's deftly placed grubber bounced up beautifully for prop Zane Tetevano to be the unlikely try recipient.

Tyrone Roberts converted for a 6-0 advantage.

But that was the only joy for the home side, who were loose both with and without the football for the majority of the half.

Brisbane weren't a whole lot better but with halfback Ben Hunt calling the shots, they looked the more dangerous and created the more opportunities.

Centre Justin Hodges took advantage on one of those chances in the 13th minutes when he strolled through Roberts' tackle close to the line off a Scott Prince pass to score an easy try which Prince converted to tie things up.

Hodges got over the try-line again five minutes later only to be held up by Naiqama and Brisbane went close again when winger Corey Oates intercepted a Darius Boyd pass and took off up field.

He seemed set to score when he evaded a Mullen cover tackle before Roberts came from the clouds to put him into touch with a great try saving tackle.

But the relief for the Knights was shortlived.

With four minutes left in the half, Hunt found Corey Parker on an angled run and he beat Beau Scott and Boyd to cross in a handy position for Prince to convert.

Right on half time, Hunt chipped and regathered but his kick for his outside men rolled into touch.

The Knights weren't without their injury worries with Scott limping from early in the game and Mullen also hampered by a leg problem.

Newcastle fought hard half early in the second half to drag themselves back into the game but lacked any real quality with the football and found some desperate Brisbane resistance.

But midway through the half, a ray of light.

Out of nothing, Leilua forced his way over in the corner, pushing off Hodges in the process to get his side back into the game at 12-10.

But no sooner had they done so, Brisbane prop Josh Maguire burst through a poor Scott tackle and found Jack Reed for a try in the corner to put the Broncos back in command.

Prince converted from the touch line for a 18-10 lead.

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Coaltrain costing $500 per minute

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Dave Taylor has not justified his pay packet in 2013. Source: Matt Roberts / Getty Images

STRUGGLING Titans forward Dave Taylor has been challenged to stand and deliver his team a finals berth as it emerged the "Coaltrain" is costing the Gold Coast nearly $500 a minute.

Taylor is set to activate a contractual clause that will keep him at the Titans for another three years but his debut season has been far from impressive.

The Titans are on a four-match losing streak with Saturday's Skilled Park encounter against second-last Wests Tigers a must-win clash to keep their finals dreams alive.

And with forwards Greg Bird (ankle), Nate Myles (groin) and Ryan James (groin) facing fitness tests this morning, Taylor must step up and deliver.

He has played 744 minutes in Titans colours this year but has failed to live up to his $350,000-a-season price tag with his statistics being far down on his last season at the Rabbitohs.

The 25-year-old has made just one linebreak in 2013 compared to 14 last year, and broken only 20 tackles after breaking 88 in 2012. He hasn't scored a try since round one.

His poor form has seen coach John Cartwright opt for the reliable Ben Ridge in the starting side with Taylor only earning five starts from 14 games.

"I love turning up to watch the Titans play when Dave's in the team because I get excited about what he can produce," said former Titan Chris Walker.

"He's no longer a kid anymore. He's been around long enough now that he should be able to start taking control of games with his presence.

"He's a lump of a lad and a nice kid but he hasn't taken his game to the next level. Once he does, he'll be that destructive."

Taylor signed a two-year deal with the option for another two years and has until the end of the year to activate the option. 

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Roos deny Cats in thriller

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North Melbourne veteran Brent Harvey burns clear of Geelong captain Joel Selwood. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: George Salpigtidis / HeraldSun

GEELONG had the futuristic Bugatti Veyron.

North Melbourne had the ageless classic, Porsche 911.

We talk of Steven Motlop and Brent Harvey, who last night took turns treating Etihad Stadium to rare moments of brilliance in a thrilling end-to-end spectacular.

The top-shelf showdown between two of the game's most electric players was at the centre of one of the year's most entertaining games.

The fact the Kangaroos won it, in more convincing fashion than the final margin would suggest, may only serve to frustrate their supporters in this "nearly-there" season.

SuperCoach scores, stats

The final score was 15.6 (96) to 13.8 (86).

North Melbourne chairman James Brayshaw declared before the game this hadn't been a wasted season for his club, but last night's result would point to the contrary.

The Roos amassed 99 more disposals and 23 more contested possessions than the Cats. They lead by 25 points 28 minutes into the second quarter and by 19 points four minutes into the last.

Not for the first time, they deserved to win a game they had controlled.

But nearly for the first time, they actually did.

Finally, North Melbourne made one stick. Like that murderous doll in those horror Child's Play films, we know Geelong just keeps coming.

But this time it wasn't enough.

On a bitterly cold and windy winter night in Melbourne, the footy was hot under the lid at Etihad.

But while Motlop and Harvey revved their engines, North would prove to have the bigger garage as Daniel Wells, Lachie Hansen and Shaun Atley drove the Roos to final siren glory.

But first, Harvey. "Boomer" went boom. He had 37 disposals, seven inside 50s and three direct score assists. He was vintage, as his 24 handball receives would attest.

Like those old Porche's, the 35-year-old still catches the eye. On his day he still runs beautifully.

Geelong let Harvey run around without an opponent in the first half and he made them pay with 24 touches.

Cue Taylor Hunt's arrival in the second half, with the Cats tagger unloading verbally and physically, but he would be run into the ground.

Motlop's 21 disposals, three goals, six inside 50s and sizzling corridor bursts were breathtaking, but he was outnumbered on the Autobahn last night.

Wells had 18 touches and four goals and quite simply, everything he did was quality. If Harvey is the evergreen Porsche, Wells is the Bentley - all class all the time.

Scott Thompson and Lachie Hansen were excellent in defence and it was their beating of Tom Hawkins - who can't be fit - and a combination of Mark Blicavs and Nathan Vardy that allowed the Roos to control the ball off half-back.

Aaron Mullett had a game-high nine rebound 50s but it was Atley who split the Cats open with his piercing runs down the middle from the back half.

This was football at its fastest.

In a first half blur, North Melbourne and Geelong combined for a remarkably efficient 17.6.

Geelong laid the foundations for a showtime night under the lid by deploying Mathew Stokes, Motlop and Travis Varcoe all inside 50m in its own version of the Carlton mosquito fleet.

It paid immediate dividends with Stoke's getting the game's first before Motlop showed his immense skill and class by kicking Geelong's next two from play-on situations.

After 12 minutes the Cats had the goals - three of the first four - but the Roos had the ball, and it wasn't long before their glut of possession told the story.

North kicked four of the last five goals of the opening term to take an eight-point lead into the first change.

The second term was a near replica of the first. Geelong got the first two through Tom Hawkins and Varcoe before the Roos hit the accelerator in spectacular fashion.

North kicked six of the last eight goals before half time, including a run of five unanswered.

They did it by removing Geelong's trademark half-back counter punch by regularly hitting up leading targets.

The "no bombing" policy starved Andrew Mackie and Corey Enright from damaging rebound opportunities and Harry Taylor and Tom Lonergan from peeling off and taking cut-off marks.

Instead the counter-attacking was coming from the Roos, who when allowed, do it with the best of them.

It was the 15 minutes that screamed speed and for a while they simply looked too quick for the Cats. Harvey was surging, Wells gliding and Shaun Atley charging.

At half-time North Melbourne lead Geelong by 20 points.

Then the Cats brought the heat. This time, North Melbourne didn't melt.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Warner Australia's latest DRS dud

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David Warner looks on as he's caught at slip, which he unsuccessfully reviewed. Source:Getty Images

THE day after Australia lodged an official complaint about the application of the DRS, the rest of the cricket world had cause to complain about David Warner's blatant misuse of the same mechanism.

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As Australia attempted to consolidate its position on the second day of the third Test at Old Trafford, Warner lodged a compelling entry for "worst referral ever". A piece of wishful thinking that was, in its insanity, no worse than the third umpires' refusal to grant Usman Khawaja a reprieve the previous day.

Facing Graeme Swann's spin, Warner's thick edge deflected from the gloves of wicketkeeper Matt Prior into the hands of Jonathan Trott at first slip. A dismissal remarkably similar to that which should have brought Stuart Broad's downfall at Trent Bridge.

But where Broad refused to walk when the umpire gave him not out, Warner refused to do so when the umpire did. Instead, after a long consultation with captain Michael Clarke, he squandered the referral in a gesture almost as futile as his attempt to floor Joe Root with a wild bar room swipe.

Despite Warner's odd dismissal, and that of captain Michael Clarke for 187, Australia had moved into a strong position at 7-439 midway through the second day.

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Having led from the front on the first day, Clarke continued his habit of turning centuries into even more momentous totals. Resuming on 125, Clarke made a slow start before warming to his task.

From one Tim Bresnan over, Clarke hit three consecutive boundaries as the Australians looked to make the most of what, on a crumbling pitch, will almost certainly be the best batting conditions.

That was already evident in the threat posed by Swann, who had taken 5/128. The off-spinner's 17th five wicket haul.

Clarke finally succumbed just after lunch when he was tucked up by a ball from Board which went from his stomach onto the stumps. That was Broad's 200th Test wicket, a milestone made more memorable by the victim.

As Australia began its improbable attempt to save the series, Clarke's partnership of 214 with Smith - a record fourth wicket stand for a Test match at Old Trafford - could prove telling.

Coming together at 3-133, the pair put Australia in a commanding position before Smith tried to slog Swann over mid-wicket and popped up a catch from a leading edge to Jonny Bairstow at cover.

Warner arrived at the wicket to a loud chorus of boos, the inevitable outcome of his skirmish with Root. His departure made way for Haddin, who pushed the Australian run rate along with some solid hitting.

Some light rain cleared before play started on the second day. However, with heavier showers forecast for Saturday, the Australians needed to give themselves sufficient time to press for victory.

After the first day, English paceman Bresnan had said his team had always thought the prospect of winning the series 5-0 was farfetched because, as some stage, "it will chuck it down".

That England, rather than Australia, was more likely to benefit from rain delays here might be considered some sort of victory for the tourists during a series when they have seldom held the whip hand.

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Jenning's exit is Penrith's gain

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Penrith Panthers ... secured a horde of young stars after releasing Michael Jennings. Source: Brett Costello / News Limited

AT his lowest ebb, Isaac John tried to sleep the days away.

He would draw the curtains on his tiny Wakefield apartment and, with snow falling outside, look to shave three, maybe four hours from the reality of an ailing league career. Of increasing depression.

Matt Moylan. Source: News Limited

Of a footy dream which, inside, this schoolboy prodigy knew was already dead.

"My problems, yeah, they'd taken over everything," John recalls softly. "I'd fallen out with the coach, wasn't getting a run; most afternoons the sun had set by four o'clock and I'd just be home by myself, sitting in the dark.

"Even this Christmas just gone, I tried to sleep through it.

"Then Christmas Day rolled into New Year and, yeah, rock bottom. I was actually making plans to walk out on my contract, to go back to New Zealand, find a job, settle down . . . and then Michael Jennings left Penrith."

Yep, welcome to Ground Zero.

Adam Docker. Source: News Limited

To that day way back in January day when, with Panthers supremo Phil Gould being grilled for releasing a $600,000 NSW Origin star, his coaching staff were already taking the first quiet steps towards spending it.

See, while much of the ongoing debate out west surrounds Gould's infamous Five Year Plan, the real story is the players behind it. Or more specifically, the five youngsters who, secured with Jennings' cash, are now accepting the greatest challenge since Royce Simmons vowed to have a beer with everyone in Penrith.

Specifically, to become the Panthers' bedrock.

And it's players like Matty Moylan, the blond fullback whose debut started with Andrew Johns likening him to a member of One Direction and, within 80 minutes, three try-assists and one sideline conversion, finished with Mark Geyer tweeting about it being the best debut since Freddy Fittler.

Also on the list is 22-year-old Adam Docker, the Shellharbour lock with 16 top grade games despite starting the year outside the NRL media guide, and Bryce Cartwright, nephew of club great John.

Which leaves the final member of Gould's Fab Five, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak: the teen sensation League Central first unveiled back in May when he was the only Toyota Cup player on our Superstars 21 and Under list.

James Segeyaro. Source: News Limited

Yet, still, the undisputed wildcard of the group is John.

The quietly-spoken Tokoroa product who, back in January, was ready to retire at 24. Who baulked even when Panthers assistant Dave Fairleigh called to offer a lifeline.

"Because my self-belief, it was gone," John recalls. "I remember thinking 'man, I can't even cut it in the English Super League, how am I gunna survive the NRL?'

"(Laughs) Not that I said anything. I was packed up and out of Wakefield in two days.

"But I didn't have much faith in myself because, my first year in England, I really fell out with the coach, Richard Agar. Then when I returned for this year's pre-season, he called me into his office and said I wouldn't be played. He said form, injuries, none of it mattered, I just wouldn't be getting a start.

"And for a while, I worked my arse off to prove him wrong. Trained hard, played well in the trials; in my eyes I'd done enough. But, just like he'd said ... it was no."

Which is when everything changed.

Growing up, little Isaac had always displayed the work ethic you'd expect a kid whose best mate since kindergarten, his constant shadow in training, was Wallaby Quade Cooper.

A wonderboy who when gifted his NRL debut at the Warriors in 2011 - by then coach Ivan Cleary - exploded into arguably the form halfback of the premiership overnight.

But then, in round 24, the Warriors travelled to Penrith. And John did his ACL. Suddenly, forced to watch on from the sidelines as another rookie, a kid by the name of Shaun Johnson, not only played the Warriors into a grand final, but himself into a New Zealand Test side and then The Next Benji Marshall headlines.

Asked about the sliding doors John says: "There's no point having any malice because nothing was going to stop Shaun.

"England just didn't work and, after realising I was wanted, I stopped doing extras and slipped into a party lifestyle.

"It just wasn't worth it anymore."

Enter Penrith.

Those battling westies who, despite starting the season as wooden spoon favourites, are now just one win outside the eight with John looking every inch the playmaker he was always talked up to be.

A footballer who, dare we say it, appears to be home?

"Ah, honestly, I haven't even thought beyond this week," the playmaker says with a nervous laugh that confirms it's no cliche.

"Every week when Ivan names the team, I'm still nervous, sitting there waiting for my name to be called.

"I guess, I've got England to thank for that. I'm not sure I could ever be complacent ... not when I know how easily it can all be taken away."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Benji and Zoe's fleeting NZ trip

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Jet-setters ... Benji and Zoe Marshall head to New Zealand for rugby union talks. Source: Mark Evans / News Limited

BALI one week, Auckland the next. Now for the Gold Coast.

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Frequent-flyer Benji Marshall flew out of Sydney yesterday on a reconnaissance mission ahead of his expected switch to the Super Rugby franchise Auckland Blues.

Marshall's wife Zoe has also travelled to New Zealand.

Auckland are firm favourites to sign Marshall with a possible stint in Japanese rugby to bolster his income.

Wests Tigers approved Marshall's mid-week trip to Auckland - despite the club playing Gold Coast at Skilled Park on Sunday.

He is expected back tonight before flying to Coolangatta for the Titans match.

Marshall travelled to Bali early last month for a week-long mid-season holiday with Zoe. It was during his Bali journey he decided to quit Wests Tigers for rugby union.

Before departing Sydney, Marshall said he was no closer to making a final decision.

"Finishing the season is my priority at the moment. It's not about finding a contract. If that happens in the midst of playing then it happens. Until that happens, there's no point talking about ifs and buts. I don't have any regrets."

Marshall also said he never wanted Tim Sheens sacked as Wests Tigers coach, adding it would be "sad" if Mick Potter was next coach dumped.

Asked did the club make an error axing Sheens, Marshall said: "I didn't want to see Tim to go in the first place.

"At the end of the day it was hard to accept that. (But) when a new coach comes in you have to do your best to try and help him.

"That is what I have tried to do this year and, as much as it hurt being put on bench by him (Potter), it helped me turn around, refocus and try and be better for the team.

"It's hard coming in as new coach. If you don't have success it is such a fickle world.

"At the end of the day if he (Potter) loses his job, that's sad because as players we have probably let him down."

A fallout with Potter has been identified as reason Marshall has decided to leave Wests Tigers. Drama between the pair started when Potter benched Marshall mid-season.

Asked should there be pressure on Potter, Marshall said: "I wouldn't know - I won't be here. There is always speculation around clubs that don't do well. (But) if anyone is asking about my relationship with Mick, it's fine. We get along great.

"We have been chatting a bit about what I am going to do and where he thinks I should be with my footy. There is no dramas with our relationship.

"It's speculation. I don't know what is going on. Mick doesn't know what's going on.

"That's between the board and the club."

Marshall also stressed Sheens shouldn't be criticised for continuing to accept pay-out money each month from Wests Tigers.

"That's not his fault," he said. "That's how the world works. If you are entitled to money and you are on a contract you should get it."

Despite his urge to play rugby union, Marshall still harbours a desire to represent New Zealand in the rugby league World Cup.

Asked if he wanted to play for the Kiwis again, Marshall said: "Absolutely. I'm a proud Kiwi. I won the last World Cup and would love to win another before I finish.

"I'm probably not playing well enough to deserve that at the moment (but) if I can find form in the next six weeks ... and if the rules permit then hopefully I am allowed." 

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Saad's career on the outer

Ahmed Saad's career is on the outer. Source: Michael Dodge / News Limited

AHMED Saad is unlikely to play football this weekend as he battles to save his career in the wake of a positive drug test.

Saad will not play for St Kilda at the Gabba on Saturday night, and Saints officials have yet to make a decision on his availability for VFL affiliate Sandringham.

St Kilda is concerned about Saad's welfare and state of mind.

The 23-year-old is under investigation for consuming an energy drink before a game earlier this year. Saad is believed to have mixed a supplement with a liquid and later returned a positive A sample for what the AFL Anti-Doping Code terms as a "specified stimulant".

Specified stimulants are only banned on match days.

Saad is allowed to play this weekend under anti-doping rules as he awaits results of his B sample test.

He is contracted for another year at St Kilda, but the Herald Sun has been told that if he receives the maximum two-year ban, the Saints could argue the suspension puts him in breach of his contract, ending his career at the club.

The club could decide to pay out his contract in full next year and drop him from its list.

It's believed Saad took the drink before St Kilda's Round 15 match against Fremantle at Patersons Stadium. Sources close to the forward say he was naive and do not believe he was plotting to cheat the system.

Saad was axed before the Round 13 game against Melbourne.

But he won a recall for the trip to Perth a fortnight later when Stephen Milne was overlooked amid rape allegations, while Nick Riewoldt (knee) and Justin Koschitzke (soreness) also missed the trip. Saad kicked two goals from nine disposals in the Saints' 30-point loss to the Dockers.

Richmond defender Bachar Houli, an AFL multicultural ambassador with Saad, said he would offer his friend support.

"In terms of Ahmed, I haven't spoken to him yet and I won't comment until I've spoken to him," Houli said.

"I'll support him from, I guess, the brother perspective. I've had a lot to do with him. I speak to him probably every two weeks, but I haven't spoken to him since the news has come out."

Houli said Saad's positive test was another example of how vigilant players needed to be when it came to what they consumed.

"I think there's dangers in everything you consume and it's the responsibility of players to consult their doctors and physios and guys in the right areas to see what they're taking," he said.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

TEAMS: Jobe, Danger back

Jobe Watson has been named to take on the Pies. Source: George Salpigtidis / Herald Sun

UNDER attack off the field, Essendon finally received some good selection news with captain Jobe Watson named for Sunday’s clash against Collingwood.

The Brownlow medallist was last night included in the Bombers' expanded squad for the MCG clash after a month on the sidelines with a broken collarbone.

Veteran defender Dustin Fletcher, Scott Gumbleton, Kyle Hardingham and Nick O'Brien joined Watson as the inclusions in the squad.

But the Bombers omitted young forward Joe Daniher and have lost Michael Hurley with an ankle injury.

The Magpies have brought in Quinten Lynch, Paul Seedsman and Luke Ball, who was a late withdrawal last week with a calf problem.

Swingman Ben Reid was also named in the line-up after injuring his ankle against Greater Western Sydney last weekend.

There are no omissions as yet for the Magpies.

RUCK duo Trent West and Mark Blicavs are among four inclusions for Geelong's clash with North Melbourne.

The Cats also welcome back Brownlow medallist Jimmy Bartel and premiership defender Josh Hunt, while the Kangaroos have made two changes for the encounter at Etihad Stadium.

For North, Luke Delaney and Ben Jacobs have replaced Nathan Grima (back) and skipper Andrew Swallow, who suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon injury in last round's win over Melbourne.

Geelong has lost James Podsiadly to suspension and Dawson Simpson to a knee injury and has dropped luckless utility Mitch Brown and youngster George Horlin-Smith.

Brown and Horlin-Smith will be joined by hamstrung premiership player Paul Chapman, who returns to football in the VFL.

Chapman, who has spent more than three month on the sidelines with hamstring woes, will line-up against Casey Scorpions at Casey Fields.

After spending 12 matches in the outer following a hamstring strain in Round 4 against Sydney, Chapman was named to play in the historic first VFL night match against Collingwood before feeling some tightness in the opposite hamstring during the final training session.

HAWTHORN has regained Shaun Burgoyne from suspension for tomorrow's clash against Richmond at the MCG.

Jonathan Simpkin has been omitted for the Hawks.

The Tigers have named veteran ruckman Orren Stephenson, Luke McGuane and David Astbury in their line-up.

Ricky Petterd (groin) and Matthew Arnot (back) are out injured for the Tigers, while Ty Vickery will miss after suffering concussion.

MELBOURNE has regained defender Colin Garland from an ankle injury for tomorrow's bottom-of-the-ladder clash against Greater Western Sydney.

The Demons have also named Jake Spencer and Dean Terlich in their line-up, but have lost key backman James Frawley (hamstring), Chris Dawes (calf) and have omitted Sam Blease.

The Giants have brought in Stephen Coniglio and Lachie Whitfield, while omitting Sam Darley and losing Will Hoskin-Elliott with concussion.

CARLTON has made no change to its line-up for tomorrow night's match against Fremantle at Etihad Stadium, while the Dockers welcome back Hayden Ballantyne from a hamstring injury.

ST KILDA captain Nick Riewoldt has shrugged off a foot injury to be named for tomorrow night's clash against Brisbane Lions at the Gabba.

The Saints also included Sam Dunell and Dylan Roberton, but have lost James Gwilt (knee) and omitted Tom Hickey.

WESTERN Bulldogs have lost Matthew Boyd (calf) and Liam Jones (ankle) for Sunday's match against Sydney at Etihad Stadium.

The Swans have included Rhyce Shaw and Mitch Morton.

- with Alex Oates

North Melbourne v Geelong

NORTH MELBOURNE

B: L.Hansen, S.Thompson, C.Delaney
HB: A.Mullett, L.Delaney, T.Hine
C: D.Wells, S.Gibson, S.Atley
HF: L.Thomas, D.Petrie, R.Bastinac
F: A.Black, R.Tarrant, B.Harvey
R: T.Goldstein, B.Cunnington, J.Ziebell
I/C: B.Jacobs, L.Adams, B.McKenzie, J.Macmillan
EMG: S.Wright, L.Greenwood, M.Daw
In: L.Delaney , B.Jacobs
Out: N.Grima (Back) , A.Swallow (Achilles)

GEELONG

B: C.Guthrie, T.Lonergan, C.Enright
HB: J.Hunt, H.Taylor, J.Corey
C: A.Mackie, J.Selwood, M.Duncan
HF: M.Stokes, N.Vardy, J.Bartel
F: S.Motlop, T.Hawkins, T.Varcoe
R: T.West, J.Caddy, S.Johnson
I/C: M.Blicavs, T.Hunt, J.Kelly, B.Smedts
EMG: M.Brown, G.Horlin-Smith, J.Walker
In: J.Hunt, J.Bartel, T.West, M.Blicavs
Out: J.Podsiadly (Suspension), D.Simpson (Knee), M.Brown (Omitted), G.Horlin-Smith (Omitted)

GWS v Melbourne

GWS

B: P.Davis, J.Bruce, C.Hampton
HB: N.Haynes, T.Mohr, Z.Williams
C: D.Shiel, A.Treloar, L.Whitfield
HF: J.Cameron, A.Tomlinson, M.Whiley
F: D.Smith, D.Brogan, T.Bugg
R: J.Giles, C.Ward, T.Scully
I/C: T.Adams, S.Coniglio, T.Greene, A.Kennedy
EMG: S.Darley, S.Gilham, N.Wilson
In: S.Coniglio , L.Whitfield
Out: S.Darley (Omitted) , W.Hoskin-Elliott (Concussion)

MELBOURNE

B: L.Dunn, C.Pedersen, D.Terlich
HB: C.Garland, T.McDonald, M.Clisby
C: J.Viney, J.Trengove, J.Grimes
HF: M.Jones, J.Watts, J.Howe
F: D.Kent, M.Gawn, J.Fitzpatrick
R: J.Spencer, C.Sylvia, N.Jones
I/C: J.Toumpas, S.Byrnes, A.Davey, L.Tapscott
EMG: J.McKenzie, D.Nicholson, T.Davis
In: D.Terlich , C.Garland , J.Spencer
Out: J.Frawley (Hamstring) , C.Dawes (Calf) , S.Blease (Omitted)

Hawthorn v Richmond

HAWTHORN

B: B.Stratton, B.Lake, B.Guerra
HB: B.Sewell, J.Gibson, L.Hodge
C: I.Smith, S.Mitchell, B.Hill
HF: J.Gunston, J.Roughead, L.Breust
F: S.Burgoyne, L.Franklin, C.Rioli
R: M.Bailey, J.Lewis, P.Puopolo
I/C: B.Whitecross, D.Hale, T.Duryea, S.Savage 21
EMG: J.Ceglar, K.Cheney, J.Simpkin
In: S.Burgoyne
Out: J.Simpkin (Omitted)

RICHMOND

B: S.Morris, A.Rance, D.Astbury
HB: C.Newman, T.Chaplin, N.Vlastuin
C: S.Grigg, T.Cotchin, D.Jackson
HF: M.White, S.Edwards, B.Ellis
F: L.McGuane, J.Riewoldt, D.Martin
R: I.Maric, B.Deledio, N.Foley
I/C: B.Houli, R.Conca 30, O.Stephenson, S.Tuck
EMG: J.Batchelor, S.Lonergan, R.Nahas
In: L.McGuane, O.Stephenson, D.Astbury
Out: R.Petterd (Groin) , T.Vickery (Concussion) , M.Arnot (Back)

West Coast v Gold Coast

WEST COAST
B: W.Schofield D.Glass B.Wilson
HB: S.Butler E.Mackenzie As.Smith
C: A.Gaff M.Priddis B.Dalziell
HF: J.Cripps JJ.Kennedy J.Hill
F: S.Wellingham S.Lycett J.Darling
R: D.Cox S.Selwood M.Hutchings
I/C: A.Hams B.Sheppard A.Carter A.Embley
EMG: J.Bennell M.Brown C.Morton 40

In: D.Glass , B.Sheppard , A.Embley
Out: M.Brown (Omitted) , C.Masten (Ankle) , C.Morton (Omitted)

GOLD COAST
B: T.McKenzie S.May S.Tape
HB: G.Broughton R.Thompson L.Russell
C: H.Bennell G.Ablett A.Sexton
HF: D.Swallow S.Day A.Hall
F: C.Brown C.Dixon T.Sumner
F: D.Gorringe D.Stanley D.Prestia
I/C: J.O'Meara J.Harbrow M.Shaw A.Boston
EMG: N.Bock J.Allen J.Wilkinson

In: R.Thompson , D.Prestia , D.Swallow , D.Gorringe
Out: J.Brennan (Omitted) , M.Weller (Omitted) , J.Gillbee (Omitted) , T.Nicholls (Knee)

Carlton v Fremantle

CARLTON

B: M.Robinson, M.Jamison, L.Henderson
HB: Z.Tuohy, M.Watson, B.Gibbs
C: C.Yarran, C.Judd, K.Simpson
HF: E.Curnow, A.Walker, J.Garlett
F: B.McLean, S.Rowe, H.Scotland
R: M.Kreuzer, E.Betts, M.Murphy
I/C: D.Armfield, J.Cachia, A.Carrazzo, K.Lucas
EMG: N.Graham, A.Joseph, T.Menzel

FREMANTLE

B: M.Taberner, Z.Dawson, G.Ibbotson
HB: L.Spurr, M.Johnson, P.Duffield
C: T.Mzungu, R.Crowley, S.Hill
HF: D.Mundy, C.Mayne, C.Pearce
F: M.Walters, Z.Clarke, H.Ballantyne
R: A.Sandilands, M.Barlow, N.Fyfe
I/C: N.Suban, L.Neale, M.de Boer, D.Pearce
EMG: A.Silvagni, T.Sheridan, C.Sutcliffe
In: H.Ballantyne
Out: C.Sutcliffe (Omitted)

Brisbane Lions v St Kilda

BRISBANE LIONS
B: R.Harwood M.Maguire J.Clarke
HB: M.Golby J.Patfull J.Adcock
C: P.Hanley T.Rockliff S.Mayes
HF: D.Zorko J.Brown J.Green
F: J.O'Brien D.Merrett B.Staker
F: M.Leuenberger J.Redden D.Rich10
I/C: S.Docherty R.Bewick E.Yeo A.Raines
EMG: A.McGrath R.Lester J.Crisp

In: P.Hanley , J.O'Brien , R.Harwood
Out: A.McGrath (Omitted) , B.Moloney (Soreness) , J.Crisp (Omitted)

ST KILDA
B: D.Roberton T.Simpkin S.Dempster
HB: J.Geary R.Stanley J.Newnes
C: F.Ray L.Hayes C.Jones
HF: N.Dal Santo N.Riewoldt L.Montagna
F: S.Milne T.Lee J.Saunders
F: B.McEvoy D.Armitage J.Steven
I/C: J.WebsterT.Curren S.Dunell A.Siposs
EMG: T.Hickey S.Ross T.Dennis-Lane

In: D.Roberton , S.Dunell
Out: J.Gwilt (Knee) , T.Hickey (Omitted)

Western Bulldogs v Sydney

WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: J.Tutt D.Morris L.Picken
HB: A.Cooney M.Talia T.Young
C: L.Dahlhaus T.Liberatore J.Macrae
HF: R.Murphy J.Grant K.Stevens
F: D.Giansiracusa J.Roughead T.Dickson
R: W.Minson R.Griffen M.Wallis
I/C: D.Cross J.Stringer D.Addison L.HunterC.Howard T.Campbell
M.Austin

In: D.Cross , M.Austin , C.Howard , T.Campbell , J.Stringer
Out: M.Boyd (Calf) , L.Jones (Ankle)

SYDNEY
B: D.Rampe H.Grundy N.Smith
HB: N.Malceski T.Richards A.Everitt
C: C.Bird R.O'Keefe J.McVeigh
HF: D.Hannebery J.White J.Bolton
F: J.Lamb K.Tippett M.Pyke
R: S.Mumford J.Kennedy K.Jack
I/C: S.Biggs H.Cunningham B.Jack T.Mitchell M.Morton L.Parker R.Shaw

In: R.Shaw , M.Morton , S.Biggs

Port Adelaide v Adelaide

PORT ADELAIDE
B: C.O'Shea A.Carlile P.Stewart
HB: M.Broadbent J.Trengove S.Colquhoun
C: C.Wingard T.Boak J.Pittard
HF: R.Gray J.Butcher A.Monfries
F: J.WesthoffJ.Schulz H.Hartlett
F: M.Lobbe Bra.Ebert K.Cornes
I/C: O.Wines N.Blee C.Heath C.Hitchcock K.Mitchell D.Cassisi A.Moore

In: C.Hitchcock , N.Blee , C.Heath

ADELAIDE
B: R.Laird B.Rutten A.Otten
HB: L.Brown D.Talia B.Smith
C: R.Henderson P.Dangerfield N.van Berlo
HF: B.Vince S.McKernan B.Crouch
F: J.Petrenko L.Johnston T.Lynch
R: S.Jacobs R.Douglas S.Thompson
I/C: M.Wright D.Mackay S.Kerridge J.Lyons M.Grigg J.Porplyzia K.Hartigan

In: B.Rutten , J.Petrenko , P.Dangerfield , L.Johnston , M.Grigg , S.Kerridge
Out: R.Tambling (Omitted) , R.Sloane (eye) , J.Jenkins (Ankle)

Collingwood v Essendon

COLLINGWOOD
B: N.Brown N.Maxwell L.Keeffe
HB: H.O'Brien H.Shaw M.Williams
C: S.Sidebottom L.Ball S.Dwyer
HF: J.Elliott Q.Lynch J.Blair
F: D.Beams T.Cloke T.Goldsack
R: B.Grundy S.Pendlebury D.Swan
I/C: B.Macaffer J.Witts B.Reid J.Thomas B.Kennedy B.Sinclair P.Seedsman

In: L.Ball , Q.Lynch , P.Seedsman

ESSENDON
B: D.Fletcher C.Hooker M.Baguley
HB: C.Dempsey P.Ryder M.Hibberd
C: D.Zaharakis J.Watson D.Heppell
HF: B.Goddard S.Gumbleton C.Dell'Olio
F: J.Carlisle K.Hardingham N.Kommer
R: T.Bellchambers B.StantonH.Hocking
I/C: T.Colyer L.Jetta J.Melksham N.O'Brien T.Pears D.Myers B.Howlett

In: J.Watson , S.Gumbleton , K.Hardingham , N.O'Brien , D.Fletcher
Out: M.Hurley (Ankle) , J.Daniher (Omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES FOR EVERY MATCH:

North Melbourne vs Geelong Cats
Todd Goldstein's 158 points last round against Melbourne was the second-highest score of any player. Joel Selwood's 151 point return against St Kilda was the equal fourth-best overall.

GWS Giants vs Melbourne
Curtly Hampton's price has hit a season-high after his 97 points last week against Collingwood. Jack Grimes' value headed in the opposite direction after his 39 point return against North Melbourne.

Hawthorn vs Richmond
Since 2010, Luke Hodge has averaged 152 points a game against the Tigers – ranked No.1 at the club. Nathan Foley has averaged 120 points a game in that time – ranked second.

West Coast Eagles vs Gold Coast Suns
Scott Selwood dominated when these sides last met in Round 14 last season, racking up 134 points. Harley Bennell was one of only two Suns players to reach three figures that day (103).

Carlton vs Fremantle
Marc Murphy has averaged 30 disposals and 124 points a game against Fremantle in his past three matches. Michael Barlow has averaged 30 disposals and 120 points of his own in that time.

Brisbane Lions vs St Kilda
Tom Rockliff ranks fourth in the AFL for points scored since Round 16, averaging 129 points a game. Jack Steven ranks third overall with an average of 134 points a match.

Western Bulldogs vs Sydney Swans
Ryan Griffen racked up 47 disposals and 169 points when these sides last met in Round 21 last season. Kieren Jack finished with 34 disposals and 120 points.

Adelaide Crows vs Port Adelaide
Ricky Henderson led the way for the Crows in the Round 3 Showdown with a team-high 114 points. Travis Boak finished with 30 disposals and 134 points – the second-most of any player for the game.

Collingwood vs Essendon
Steele Sidebottom finished with a team-high 31 disposals when these sides last met on ANZAC Day, collecting 136 points. David Zaharakis was the top ranked player courtesy of his 34 disposals and 140 points.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

$8,650 a week to do nothing

Former Wests Tigers coach Tim Sheens before he was sacked by the club. Source: Tracee Lea / News Limited

ON the 15th day of every month, Australia's Test coach Tim Sheens gets paid $37,500 for doing nothing.

Ten months after his sacking from the Wests Tigers, the club is still paying for his services. That's $8,650 a week to play golf, drink coffee, read a book, watch the footy or whatever else takes his fancy.

He hasn't turned up for work since his dismissal last October. Not once. His contract runs until the end of next year and is worth $450,000-a-season.

On top of this, Sheens gets paid more than $100,000 a year as coach of Australia's Kangaroos.

It's not a bad gig if you can get it.

The Daily Telegraph understands the board of the Wests Tigers made a decision in early July to stop paying the former coach. At this stage he has not been paid for July.

Lawyers for Sheens and the Wests Tigers have been trying to negotiate a payout all year.

Again they appear to be getting close but Sheens is refusing to go - or even budge - without most of his money, which is estimated to be another $600,000.

Sheens said Wednesday he was entitled to be standing his ground. 

"I'm not enjoying it - I'd rather be coaching and I'm still hopeful of getting another job in the NRL," he said.

"I don't want this to finish up in court and the lawyers are trying to reach an agreement."

It couldn't be happening at a worse time for a club that is already under financial stress.

They are now paying for two first-grade coaches - Sheens and Mick Potter, who is understood to be on about half of the Test coach's salary.

Tigers officials and supporters are furious about the money being wasted.

"Imagine what we could do in junior development and marketing with $37,500 every month," said one insider.

"It's disgraceful that this has dragged on for so long. No club in the game can afford to be paying two head coaches."

When he was first sacked, there was talk of Sheens taking on a "senior role" at the club.

It never eventuated and he hasn't stepped foot into the office since.

Wests Tigers CEO Grant Mayer was reluctant to comment when approached by The Daily Telegraph Wednesday night. 

"It's ongoing, the lawyers are talking at the moment and we're hoping to have it cleared up as soon as possible," he said. "His July payment is part of those talks." 

Sheens has coached 669 first-grade games and won four premierships, three at the Canberra Raiders and one at the Tigers in 2005.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Sun is setting on Sandow

Chris Sandow playing NSW Cup game for Wentworthville. Source: Peter Kelly / News Limited

THROUGH the combination of my former involvement along with my current high expectation, I'm either the best or the worst person to comment on the Parramatta number seven jersey.

I'm not entirely sure which.

However during the Eels' loss to Canterbury last Friday night I was asked whether I considered Luke Kelly to be a viable long-term prospect for my old club.

I must admit the question, though an obvious one, took me by surprise because I hadn't really contemplated decisions to be made in that area and the ramifications they would mean for the future.

My immediate response was that I thought Luke had plenty to offer and had certainly been superior in what he had provided for the team this season compared to that of the much higher profiled Chris Sandow.

After greater consideration I have found no reason to alter my opinion as to whether he has the potential to play an ongoing role in the re-structuring and re-building of the Eels under Ricky Stuart.

Kelly was a mid-season recruit from Melbourne last year and there is always a concern when a 22-year-old halfback hasn't already made some sort of mark in the top grade.

This isn't a hard and fast rule especially when you consider that in his time at the Storm he was behind the likes of Cooper Cronk, Brett Finch and Gareth Widdop.

He did manage six first team appearances, which was a positive with Craig Bellamy in charge.

In fact the composure he has shown under enormous pressure this year with less than 25 first grade games under his belt is one of the main reasons that I've liked what I've seen and he will only get better with more experience.

He has a crisp pass, an astute kicking game and is a decent defender.

An extra metre of pace wouldn't hurt but I survived an entire career being slow.

I actually see distinct similarities with the solid game that the Sharks' Jeff Robson has put together and I doubt that Cronulla would swap him for any other number seven in the competition.

Whether Luke has the toughness both physically and mentally to be a regular starter remains to be seen, but at the very least I'd be retaining his services at the club to ensure depth in that area.

So what does this mean for Chris Sandow?

Again I'm not exactly sure, but I do know that there has to be major changes in the way he goes about his football.

The first thing that must be addressed is his defence.

He has become an obvious target for opposition attacks and his inability to handle players one on one has continually created huge problems for fellow defenders either side of him.

Chris has paid the price for not having ridiculous shoulder charges coached out of his game earlier in his career and now seems incapable of hitting and sticking, which is a real liability.

In possession, the number on his back demands involvement, energy and enthusiasm.

Running across to drop a pass back on the inside to a teammate going nowhere and kicking the ball is nowhere near good enough. If the game isn't coming to you, you have to go to the game.

We've always known that Chris is not a structured halfback, so he needs to feature in ways that best utilise his talents.

Every time a forward hits it up he should be looming in support. Capitalising on quick play the balls should be his signature play.

By putting himself in positions to benefit in broken play would allow his speed and instinct to come to the fore.

I would imagine that these are the types of areas of his game that coach Stuart would be looking for Chris to work on while back in the NSW Cup.

Unfortunately this will not be successful if there are off-field issues that need to be dealt with as suggested in the weekend press.

External problems invariably carry significant distractions and never allow a player to perform to his best.

Hopefully these are being confronted and addressed.

I've heard people say that they want to see Chris playing with a smile on his face. I don't.

I want to see a first grade halfback with a concentrated gaze, intent on working out the best place to be, in which direction the side should be headed, where the opposition look vulnerable and any other information that will help him best secure a victory for his team.

Save the smiling for the dressing sheds after the game.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Pressure on Potter to keep job

Wests Tigers captain Robbie Farah talks with coach Mick Potter. Source: Gregg Porteous / News Limited

WESTS Tigers coach Mick Potter is under pressure to stay at the helm next year, with the joint venture midway through a wholesale review of its football department.

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The Tigers board last month ordered management to conduct the review, which has included feedback from players.

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New CEO Grant Mayer and Potter were called on to devise a restructure of the club's coaching ranks, which could see big changes with assistant coaches Steve Georgallis and Royce Simmons both free agents at the end of this season.

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Potter is contracted for another 12 months, but with the Tigers languishing in second last fresh doubts have emerged over his future.

Players have also reported communication problems with the coach, who addressed the team a week ago about any misgivings they might have.

Sources said candidates such as Penrith assistant Trent Barrett have been entertained in the past week. 

But Potter's fate is a long way from sealed. He enjoys sections of support from within the factionalised club.

Potter's backers claim he should be given the chance to run his own show, having inherited staff and players from predecessor Tim Sheens last October.

And despite the fact Potter is at the lower end of the NRL salary scale, the Tigers are highly reluctant to pay-out another coach.

Furthermore, the Tigers are yet to identify a replacement coach despite canvassing possible replacements.

Contacted Wednesday night, Mayer confirmed the coaching review had been split into two parts - structure and individuals. 

"There's a review of the coaching structure," Mayer said.

"We've got high expectations of where this club finishes on the ladder and in order to achieve that we've got to have the best people."

Asked if Potter's position was now part of the review, Mayer replied: "The head coach is contracted until the end of 2014."

Potter's relationship with Benji Marshall has been partly blamed for the Kiwi's decision to ask for a release earlier this month.

The pair exchanged words when Potter dumped Marshall to the bench in round 10 and feedback since has indicated the coach might have better communicated his reasons for the critical call. Potter has been informed of the players' feedback.

In North Queensland, the Cowboys are using Neil Henry's axing as inspiration for their finals push.

Cowboys forward Ashton Sims said rather than sulk after being told he would not be required in 2014, Henry asked players to finish with a bang.

They need to win their final six games to keep their faint finals hopes alive but Sims said the Cowboys were ready to "do it for Neil".

"Definitely. He has been a good servant of the club for years as assistant and head coach," he said of Henry. "But we also want to do it for ourselves.

"We haven't played our best footy this year. There's six games to go, 12 points on offer and we want to take all of them."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

KP on track for Old Trafford Test

Kevin Pietersen is on track to play in the third Test at Old Trafford. Source: IAN KINGTON / AFP

KEVIN Pietersen appears on course to play the third Test at Old Trafford, beginning on Thursday, after successfully completing another training session.

Kevin Pietersen appears on course to play the third Test at Old Trafford, beginning on Thursday, after successfully completing another training session.
 
England's most dangerous batsman spent extra time in the nets and did some running on a damp outfield to prove his recovery from a left calf strain.
 
Captain Alastair Cook described Pietersen's chances of playing as "pretty good."
 
"He has got through training the last two days and he's done everything we've asked him," Cook said after training.
 
"Clearly we have to make that decision tomorrow morning in case he pulls up differently to that but we're pretty hopefully.
 
"He's worked very hard with the medical team over the last week to get himself right. Fingers crossed he has."
 
England has James Taylor on standby. The diminutive batsman scored an unbeaten 121 against Australia as a guest player for Sussex in the recent drawn three-day tour match.

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Old Dogs show pups new tricks

Bulldog Robert Murphy in action against West Coast. Picture: Getty Source: Michael Dodge / Getty Images

BRENDAN McCartney has stood firm as Western Bulldogs coach despite a lack of obvious success since he took over in 2012.

He has always said it will be a long journey for the yelpers but every now and then we see a genuine glimpse of a rosy future and McCartney takes his place in this week's Team of the Round.

Joining him are some of his pupils in Robert Murphy, Adam Cooney and Luke Dahlhaus in a rare week where the Dogs have four inclusions.

And then there are some new faces in Cameron O'Shea and Marley Williams, two young men who have put together highly impressive seasons.

LIVE CHAT WITH JON ANDERSON FROM 11AM BELOW:

Run and carry ... Marley Williams provided plenty of dash off half-back Source: Getty Images

B: Cameron O'Shea (Port Adelaide): The quiet achiever in the success story team of the season.
Michael Johnson (Fremantle): Where is his name when All Australian selection is mentioned?
Marley Williams (Collingwood): Just another example of how productive the rookie draft can be.

HB: Andrew Mackie (Geelong): Another sublime display of rebound defence.
Lachlan Hansen (North Melbourne): Become a different player since returning to defence.
Robert Murphy (Western Bulldogs): The old bloke has a bit of run left.

Hawk Sam Mitchell on his way to 31 disposals. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source:

C: Kieren Jack (Sydney): Hard midfielders who can kick goals are valuable commodities.
Sam Mitchell (Hawthorn): In terms of in and unders they don't come any better.
Adam Cooney (Western Bulldogs): When his body allows him, a rare talent.

HF: Ryan O'Keefe (Sydney): Arguably in career best form despite his 32 years.
Jeremy Cameron (Greater Western Sydney): The comparisons with Royce Hart are fully justified.
Nathan Fyfe (Fremantle): As it stands is arguably Freo's best player.

Lance Franklin celebrates one of his eight goals. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source:

F: Steven Motlop (Geelong): Is he the most improved player in the AFL?
Buddy Franklin (Hawthorn): A handy time for Bud to start strutting.
Luke Dahlhaus (Western Bulldogs): A busy bee small forward that every team would love.

R: Matthew Kreuzer (Carlton): Big Humphrey is making a few eat their words.
Tom Liberatore (Western Bulldogs): Maybe he is the most improved in the game.
Travis Boak (Port Adelaide): You can see why Geelong sent a posse to Port for him.

Joel Selwood runs away from the pack as Lenny Hayes watches on. Source: News Limited

I: Joel Selwood (Geelong): Has had some very big games so expect to hear his name on Brownlow night.
Dane Swan (Collingwood): The tattooed man lifted when disaster threatened.
Jarryd Roughead (Hawthorn): If Buddy doesn't get you, Roughy must.
Substitute: Billie Smedts (Geelong): As the pressure heats up for spots so do the performances from those on the edge.
Coach: Brendan McCartney (Western Bulldogs): With apologies to Alastair

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Titans haul Cartwright in for talks

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Chooping block ... John Cartwright faces a nervous wait about his future at the Titans. Source: Mark Evans / News Limited

JOHN Cartwright will be summoned to face Titans hierarchy as the club seeks urgent solutions to avert the Gold Coast missing the finals for the third consecutive season.

The Courier-Mail can reveal Titans head coach Cartwright and his assistants will meet with interim CEO Darryl Kelly on Wednesday to discuss a sweeping restructure of the club's football operations for 2014.

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Kelly personally wants Cartwright on deck next season but concedes the foundation coach's fate may ultimately rest with a newly created Titans board, set to be instituted by season's end.

Contracted until the end of 2016, Cartwright's future has become increasingly tenuous.

Some Gold Coast players are losing faith in his methods, expressing frustration at a perceived lack of feedback from Cartwright.

The Titans had been entrenched in the top six but four heavy losses in a row have seen the Coast slump to 11th ahead of Sunday's must-win clash against Wests Tigers at Skilled Park.

Kelly wants answers from Cartwright, who heads up Gold Coast's football committee.

"We are undertaking a review of the football department, and John is a part of that, as are the other people in the football department," said Kelly, who outlaid $3.25 million last year for a 31.8 per cent stake in the Titans.

"Obviously we are not happy with where we are sitting - it's just above the Cowboys and Broncos, which is not what anyone's aim is.

"We have aspirations to make the eight, and we still think we can. But it is becoming a harder road for us."

Sacking Cartwright would be an expensive exercise.

His deal is worth an estimated $350,000 annually, meaning the Titans must deal with a $1 million payout if they decide to axe Cartwright.

Cartwright has the lowest winning percentage of any NRL coach to complete a full season since the start of 2011 - winning just 24 of his past 66 games for a 36.4 per cent success rate.

But Kelly is keen for Cartwright to coach the Titans in 2014, regardless of whether the club misses the finals for a third straight year.

"The coach is not under review," he said.

"We are looking at ways to improve the performance right through the club, including the under-20s and our junior-development program.

"John Cartwright has my full support. He is an integral part of our club.

"We are meeting to make some decisions about how we can structure the football department next year, and what resources we throw at it to improve the performances."

It is understood Titans players have been frustrated with the lack of feedback they receive from Cartwright.

"There has been some discontent around feedback and a few players were concerned with the lack of attention their individual games were receiving this season," a source close to the team said.

"In some cases, the players were searching for feedback outside Cartwright because they knew their form was falling away, but were unsure why.

"The players I have spoken to respect Carty, but know this team should be top-four."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Hey Hawks, Cats got your tongue

Hawthorn star Lance Franklin jostles with nemesis Geelong full-back Tom Lonergan. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Wayne Ludbey / HeraldSun

IT IS the Kryptonite to the AFL's superhuman forward line.

Hawthorn, fresh from one of the most complete performances of the season against Essendon on Friday night, boasts a firepower that petrifies its rivals.

Lance Franklin, Jarryd Roughead, Luke Breust, Paul Puopolo, Jack Gunston, Cyril Rioli and Jordan Lewis represent the attacking pack that could propel the Hawks to this year's premiership. But the only problem is a glaring problem. There's one defence they simply can't break.

You guessed it - Geelong.

The side that has owned the Hawks for the past five years is this year making the brown and gold threat look more like Clark Kent than Superman.

To best illustrate the defensive hold the Cats have on Hawthorn, we need to detail just how good the Hawks' attack has been in 2013.

After 19 rounds, they average 7.3 points a game more than their rivals and back this up by ranking fifth in points-against.

They average 9.6 more inside 50s, ranked second. Once inside 50m they goal 30.8 per cent of the time, ranked No.1, while averaging 15.1 marks inside 50m per game, also No.1.

The Hawks haven't generated as many turnovers forward of centre as Geelong and Sydney, but they make up for this by punishing the opposition 40.5 per cent of the time.

Roughead's 54 goals are the equal-most in the AFL, Franklin is No.1 for groundball gets (2.6 per game), Breust has racked up the most score assists (34) and Puopolo is the best forward 50m pressure man in the league.

Then there's Lewis; of the top 50 kickers inside 50m, his result in a mark 28.4 per cent of the time - ranked fifth in the competition.

They are a formidable combination.

But like the caped crusader when confronted by the green stuff, they come spectacularly unstuck against Geelong.

When the ball has been inside Hawthorn's 50m arc this year, Buddy and Roughy and Co. have kicked a goal 32.7 per cent of the time. Against the Cats this plummets to 17.6 per cent.

Marks inside 50m drops from 15.1 to 11 and the points-for average falls dramatically from 123.3 to 79.

Hawthorn hasn't struggled to get the ball inside 50m against the Cats either, advancing it inside its attacking arc an average 62.5 times this year compared with 56.4 against other sides.

They simply can't generate a score. Harry Taylor gets Roughead, Tom Lonergan has subdued Franklin, Corey Enright has a good record on Rioli and Josh Hunt and Andrew Mackie share responsibility for Breust and Puopolo.

There's no Kennett curse in that.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Dons take Little breath

New Bombers chairman Paul Little speaks to the media. Picture: Getty Source: Michael Dodge / Getty Images

PAUL Little's first public utterances as Essendon chairman were a game-changer in the war between James Hird and Andrew Demetriou.

When Hird and Little met at the weekend to discuss all things Essendon, Hird is understood to have told Little everything he knew about the first week of February, and the subsequent discussions since, including those held late last week leading up to David Evans' resignation.

There were - and are - secrets between Evans and Hird, and a small group of others at Windy Hill.

It centres around the events leading up to the Bombers "self reporting" to the AFL and the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority on February 5.

Two days later, on February 7, the Australian Crime Commission report into drugs in sport was delivered in Canberra.

Evans, who is at his family farm, was at loggerheads with Hird about the details of a telephone call between Evans and AFL chief executive Demetriou on the night of February 4.

It was the week of madness.

The Bombers yesterday took a deep breath.

Hird, of course, was delighted with the club's response.

He told Little what he knew, what others knew, and what conversations had been held at the club between key people.

Little's response was emphatic.

"James Hird has also got not only my full and complete support but the board's full support, and we look forward to James taking us to a successful finals campaign," Little said.

That came after frank discussions between the new president and the coach at the weekend.

Evans is said to be less stressed since his decision to resign.

He had previously said Demetriou did not pass on information about the club allegedly using banned drugs.

Demetriou has consistently denied passing on any information to Evans.

Two testimonies to ASADA, believed to be from Hird and head of football Danny Corcoran, differ from that of Evans and Demetriou.

It's believed others at Windy Hill will add to the debate in the coming days.

Perhaps it is a breakdown in communication, a case of people having different versions of events, as Demetriou has said.

Perhaps the war is only just beginning.

Hird, meanwhile, says he's going nowhere.

Asked if he would continue coaching the Bombers yesterday, he said: "Definitely."

Evans' standing at the club is strong, although in the robust world of politics, Little is said to be very strong.

"It's a pleasure to be here today to confirm my appointment as chairman. I wish it had been under more favourable circumstances but that's the way things are," Little said. "I'd like to just confirm that David Evans has done a marvellous job for this football club.

"David will continue to help and assist me in my role as chairman and obviously coping with the demands of the current investigation that's under way.

"The ASADA report we understand will be made available to the club within the next week or two and we look forward to the opportunity of being able to use this report to answer a lot of the allegations and concerns that have been voiced in relation to the Essendon Football Club."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Brumbies set sights on another miracle

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Coach Jake White celebrates the win with Brumbies halfback Nic White. Picture: Themba Hadebe Source: Themba Hadebe / Getty Images

TEARS welled in the eyes of Jake White - standing on the Loftus Versfeld turf, 68km from where he was born 50 years ago, now the engineer of a two-year doghouse to penthouse story.

The Brumbies are in the Super Rugby grand final - from third-last in 2011 - having won a last-minute semi-final thriller 26-23 against the Bulls early Sunday morning (AEST).

White, the puppeteer of this fairytale, is a master strategist and planner, but the tears behind his black-rimmed spectacles revealed so much more to his golden touch.

The emotion, the raw human feeling we so rarely see, spilled over at this latest milestone: the Brumbies became the first team in history to win an away finals match against the Bulls.

More historical barriers await them on Saturday in Hamilton, where defending champions the Chiefs are favoured to go back-to-back.

No foreign team has won a grand final in New Zealand, no team has flown to South Africa and back to claim the premiership, and only the 1999 Crusaders have won the title finishing out of the top two (the Brumbies finished third).

"It's going to be an uphill battle that has never been done before," White said. "But there are a lot of things that haven't been done by teams before and the Brumbies have done them week in, week out."

As he hugged his winger George Speight in the aftermath of the Pretoria revolt, White's hearty outpouring belied his stern, calculated aura.

This isn't about making plans on paper come to life. It is about a journey that a group of young men who have overcome personal tragedy and professional rejection are undertaking to etch their names in history, and White is riding every bump.

White boldly predicted the path to glory three weeks ago, saying he had formulated plans on how to beat the Cheetahs at home, fly to Pretoria to beat the Bulls, and win the championship in Hamilton. He believes, and his players unwaveringly buy in with every chip in their pot.

If you want to win in Pretoria, the last scenario you would hope to confront is having to score a try in the last minute.With the Brumbies facing this predicament, they conjured what White describes as the greatest victory in their history.

"I spoke to George Smith and he said he has never experienced anything like that in his life," White said. "We defended and defended and the law of averages told us we were going to get out of our half and have one crack at getting the win. And then it happened."

It wasn't in the fashion of their glitzy predecessors who won titles in 2001 and 2004, but the Brumbies showed similar resolve and disposition.

The breathtaking expanse of Gregan, Larkham, Roff and co has been replaced by the industry of Mowen, Kimlin and Moore.

The Bulls didn't hit the lead until the 60th minute, but after the Brumbies had led 16-11 at half-time and then 19-14 in the 48th all the momentum swung to the home team.

Winger Clyde Rathbone and man-of-the-match Smith are the only players from the 2004 victory still in the team.

Having been replaced, Rathbone was on the sidelines observing the final quarter as the Bulls were storming home with a 20-19 lead.

"It's a crucial next 15 minutes for us," Rathbone said. "Every game against the Bulls is tough but especially a semi-final. It has a Test feel to it.

"We've just got to back our D now and make sure we don't give away any penalties."

They did, but the Bulls descended into madness.

Having earned two kickable penalties in the opposition half, they rejected shots at goal to take attacking lineouts. After coughing the ball over after the first, Steyn inexplicably attempted a field goal from the second, which missed.

Another penalty inside the Brumbies' half was given in the 72nd minute, yet again the Bulls opted for a lineout. By now their rabid fans were aghast, but when their team lost the ensuing lineout many were exploding.

In the Bulls coaches box, Frans Ludeke was severely testing the microphone's capacity in his walkie-talkie, thundering his displeasure down the line.

When the Bulls received another penalty in the 76th minute, the Loftus faithful were frantically pointing at the posts or at the coaches box where Ludeke was demanding a shot be taken.

The Bulls' trainer raced to skipper Dewald Potgieter to relay the message, twice to be sure, before Steyn pointed to the sticks, bringing about the biggest roar in the stadium this season.

Steyn duly kicked the goal to give his side a 23-19 lead.

Brumbies coach White was now pacing back and forth in his box, realising this game could no longer be won by a penalty or field goal.

As the seconds raced away, the Brumbies won the ball and pressed away in Bulls territory, scrambling for an answer.

It came when five-eighth Matt Toomua took the ball on the short side, targeting the lumbering forwards caught wide with 100 seconds remaining.

He dummied and raced through a gap, with only fullback Zane Kirchner to beat.

Having thrown just six passes in the previous 78 minutes, Toomua threw his seventh and most vital back inside to centre Tevita Kuridrani, who dashed to the tryline with an arm in the air and the other clutching the ball, diving in to silence 58,000 of White's former countrymen.

From glamour club to grafters, the reinvention of the Brumbies has been 24 months in the making under the World Cup-winning coach, who freely admits this squad is much further advanced than he'd predicted.

The voyage is one final hurdle from its conclusion.

White's eyes are already long dried, and staring straight at the Chiefs.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Walters ready to save sad Cows

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Melbourne Storm assistant coach Kevin Walters runs through warm up drills. Source: Hannah Johnston / Getty Images

KEVIN Walters' services have been offered to the crisis-stricken Cowboys as the Broncos legend on Sunday declared himself ready to launch his career as an NRL head coach.

With Neil Henry set to be sacked by the Cowboys board, Walters believes he now has the skill-set to succeed in the NRL and help deliver a premiership to a Queensland club.

The Courier-Mail can reveal Walters' management made contact with North Queensland powerbrokers well before news of Henry's impending demise broke on Friday night. 

"I'm ready to go ... at any Queensland club or any NRL team," he said on Sunday night.

Speaking for the first time since quitting as Melbourne's assistant on Thursday, Walters insists the chance to reunite with his wife Narelle and five kids was the motivation for leaving the Storm at season's end.

But he doesn't mask his desire to become an NRL head coach and a glorious opportunity will arrive this week when Henry is formally terminated by Cowboys chairman Laurence Lancini.

The former Maroons star makes it clear he isn't death-riding any coaching contemporary, but at age 45 he faces a now-or-never scenario to take charge of an NRL outfit.

Not since 2006, when the Broncos upset Melbourne, has a Queensland club tasted the premiership success Walters enjoyed five times as Brisbane's champion pivot.

"I've worked my a*** off for the last 10 years trying to get myself in this position," said Walters, who began his coaching career with Toowoomba Clydesdales in 2003.

"I feel like my time is now.

"And to be honest, there is nothing more that I can do from a coaching point of view, other than look at where I've been and how much I've learned and help a club that needs help. 

"The family was first and foremost on my mind. My mum passed away earlier this year and I didn't want to uproot the family again and bring them to Melbourne.

"I feel like, personally, I am ready for another challenge in life, a new challenge, and where it comes from I'm not sure.

"I don't have anything concrete at the moment, but I'm confident something will come up in the next six to eight weeks."

While Queensland's three NRL clubs the Broncos, Cowboys and Titans are all languishing outside the top eight, the most likely opportunity for Walters is in Townsville.

The Titans would face a $1 million-plus payout sacking John Cartwright, while Broncos boss Paul White insists Anthony Griffin is locked in for 2014.

But the Cowboys have a vacancy. 

It is understood Walters, Paul Green and Trent Barrett are frontline contenders to replace Henry at a club that has failed to win a premiership since its 1995 inception.

Despite his decorated history with the Broncos, Walters has no desire to be an assistant to Griffin, saying a 10-year apprenticeship has him well equipped to preside over an NRL club.

"I think I'm ready to coach a team by myself, if it's not the Broncos, it might have to be somewhere else," he said.

"I haven't spoken to the Cowboys and I don't want to be seen to be going for people's jobs. I'm available, I'm returning to Brisbane, I haven't got a club, but if there is an opportunity, I will take it.

"It's not about hawking myself around. I need to be smart about something that does come up, because I think I will only get one crack and I can't afford to blow it."

Walters' resume would be the envy of any aspiring NRL coach. He has worked as an assistant to master coaches Wayne Bennett and Craig Bellamy, worked under Mal Meninga at the Maroons, coached two Queensland Cup clubs and called the shots at French Super League club Les Catalans.

Walters narrowly lost out to Mick Potter for the Wests Tigers job last October. 

But as a serial premiership winner, Walters believes he can bring success to an NRL outfit.

"If you look at my resume, I'd be surprised if any coach outside of the NRL would have my pedigree," he said.

"I can bring a winning culture and winning methods to an organisation. I know I can bring that, winning is a habit.

"I've been all over the place trying to up skill myself as a coach and I've topped it off with Craig Bellamy in Melbourne. I really don't think I can do much more to add to the artillery as such. 

"The time is right to get into an NRL club and let me do my stuff ... I am very confident about what I can bring to an organisation."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Graham Murray dies aged 58

Former North Queensland Cowboys Graham Murray Source: Liam Driver / News Limited

RUGBY league lost one of its true gentlemen Sunday night when former Cowboys coach Graham Murray passed away. He was 58.

Murray will be fondly remembered from all points of the rugby league globe, having achieved fantastic success as a coach in Queensland, NSW and England.

But his coaching record and remarkable success only tell a small fraction of the story of rugby league's loss.

The game has also lost one of its friendliest and most likeable characters. A man who shared a terrific passion for the code, and created lifelong friendships within it.

Murray was to coach Wynnum Manly in the Intrust Super Cup this season, a club he had led previously as CEO.

But a heart attack in the pre-season put paid to those plans.

He was weakened, but fought on.

A second cardiac arrest, this one on the day of the State of Origin series decider, proved too much for him to tackle.

He has been in the Intensive Care Unit at the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane since.

On Sunday the family he adored - wife Amanda and daughter Kara - made the agonising decision to switch off the life support system that had been keeping him alive.

With true grit, Muzz managed to fight on for a few more hours, as word of his worsening condition spread through the code.

But at 9.44pm Sunday night, a solemn text message from Wynnum Manly CEO Scott Thornton confirmed the worst. One of the game's good blokes was gone.

"Muzza'' will always hold a special place in the hearts of Queensland rugby league fans, for being the man who finally untapped the potential of the North Queensland Cowboys - lifting them to their first finals appearance in 2004, and then all the way to the grand final against Wests Tigers in 2005.

He worked similar feats everywhere he went  with the Illawarra Steelers, the Hunter Mariners, and with the Sydney Roosters who he took to the grand final against the Broncos in 2000.

A proud Blue, he was unfortunate enough to take over the NSW State of Origin coaching job in 2006 and 2007 just as Queensland's greatest era was dawning.

He was so well liked, Muzz achieved the impossible - he made it hard to hate the Blues.

As much as Queenslanders wanted the Maroons to win, there was a part of us that wanted the Cockroaches to at least get close, just so it wouldn't be too hard for Muzz.

In an age where rugby league coaches can take things all too seriously, Muzz was affable, approachable and always keen for beer and a chat.

But it was in Leeds in the north of England where Murray was truly worshipped, winning a Challenge Cup against the London Broncos in 1999.

He will never be forgotten by the Headingley faithful, who used to chant on the terraces, "There's only one Graham Murray.''

They were absolutely right.

He will be missed greatly.

May he rest in peace.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More