‘Bale will shine against Barca’

Real's Gareth Bale, left, in action against FC Schalke 04 at the Bernabeu. Picture: Andres Kudacki/AP Source: Andres Kudacki / AP

REAL MADRID manager Carlo Ancelotti believes Gareth Bale is in prime condition to make his mark on El Clasico when his side host Barcelona this weekend.

The Welshman failed to make an impact in an unusual position as a false number nine and was substituted after an hour in his first experience of the biggest game in European football as Real lost 2-1 to Barca at the Camp Nou back in October.

However, Bale has since recovered from the injury problems that blighted his first few months in the Spanish capital after his huge summer move from Tottenham Hotspur and has gone on to score 14 goals and provide 17 assists in just 31 appearances.

"In the first game he was switching positions with (Angel) Di Maria at times, but now he is used to playing on the wing and the team is balanced so we won't change that,'' Ancelotti told his pre-match press conference on Saturday.

"He is in good shape. His physical condition is very important for him and I am sure he will play a great game.

"We haven't done any special work with him to improve his fitness or speed. He just has great genes and has done the same work as everyone else.

"He is in really good condition and we are very happy with him. He had some problems at the start of the season but now he is looking good and we hope that will continue until the end of the season.''

Real go into the game full of confidence as they haven't been beaten since that defeat at the Camp Nou nearly five months ago.

A run of 31 games unbeaten in all competitions has seen them open up a four-point lead over Barca at the top of the table, but Ancelotti claimed that that advantage doesn't ease the pressure on his side to win at home. "A Clasico is always important and always brings pressure. The game is very important for the league and a Clasico is always distinct to the other games.

"Our idea is to be able to show our quality. We are desperate to play this game. We need to do what we have done well up until now which is attacking and defending well as a group.''

Ancelotti confirmed that French striker Karim Benzema had recovered from the thigh injury that kept him out of Wendesday's 3-1 win over Schalke meaning he will be fit to start alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Bale in attack.

The trio have managed 76 goals between them this season, but Barca can boast a frightening strike pairing of their own as Brazilian star Neymar looks set to partner Lionel Messi up front for the Catalans. And Ancelotti said Real's midfield and defence will have to work together to deny the South American duo space.

"It is normal that we have to be very careful with them. It is not an individual's job, but about working together. We have to be very compact.''

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Buzz: Top Dog invests in Sharks future

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

BOOM hooker Michael Lichaa has invested in the Sharks' future, despite his defection to the Canterbury Bulldogs.

The Cronulla local junior recently purchased a unit at the club's new Woolooware Bay development site.

Ironically it was at the same time he agreed to terms for a $900,000 three-year deal plus a car with the Bulldogs.

Michael Lichaa recently purchased a unit at the club's new Woolooware Bay development site. Source: Supplied

"I've grown up in the Shire and I really like the look of the place," Lichaa told me.

"Even though I've signed with the Bulldogs, I'd like to live there myself but I may have to use it as an investment property and rent it out.

"I'm just really excited to have a place there."

The Sharks development project includes 600 apartments with prices starting from $450,000 for a one-bedroom apartment to $860,000 for three bedrooms.

Club chairman Damian Keogh has also purchased an apartment and skipper Paul Gallen has lodged an expression of interest.

Michael Lichaa recently purchased a unit at the club's new Woolooware Bay development site. Source: Supplied

The Sharks have been given a huge financial boost from early sales.

The property boom has lifted the club's projected earnings from $30m to $43m from unit purchases, the extra $13m ensuring the club's survival in the competition.

On top of that, the Sharks will get a steady income from retail rental in the shopping centre complex.

Building work is expected to start next month

Yet to sign off on Barba

They are slow to move with the times at the Sydney Olympic Park Authority.

We were out visiting the GWS Giants at their impressive new site this week and drove past this slightly outdated billboard.

Ben Barba still appears on a billboard at Sydney Olympic Park in a Bulldogs jersey. Source: Supplied

Giants star Callan Ward is pictured with Rabbitohs superstar Greg Inglis, Swifts netballer Susan Pratley … and a guy called Ben Barba.

Last time we checked he was playing for Brisbane Broncos

Old Sharkie's tip to land more birdies

IT'S not every day golfing legend Greg Norman is handing out free tips.

When he saw a tweet and photo from stylish Fox Sports presenter Louise Ransome about getting a golf lesson, he was only too happy to jump in.

"Need to work on right elbow position & your shoulder and hip turn will be insync. #easymove," he tweeted.

Golfing legend Greg Norman tweeted some helpful tips to Fox Sports reporter Louise Ransome. Source: Twitter

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Farah plucks Ryan's wings

WE loved the Twitter exchange between ex-Tigers teammates Beau Ryan and Robbie Farah this week.

Ryan: "@robbiefarah Good luck this year rob. Hopefully you can force a few more blokes out of the club #sevenandcounting"

Farah: "@therealbeauryan I didn't force you out champ. Nofoaluma and Koroibete did #theyhaveyoucovered" Ouch.

Hot topic for rev-head Dave

THE NRL's ridiculous scheduling of a day game on the Gold Coast last Sunday in 40-degree heat saw a number of fans treated for heat exhaustion.

Not that it was a problem for NRL chief executive Dave Smith. He was in Melbourne at the Grand Prix, enjoying the hospitality from an air-conditioned corporate suite.

David Taylor tries to cool down during the Gold Coast Titans v Wests Tigers game. Source: News Corp Australia

I can understand he needs to experience big events but not after one round when crowds and TV ratings slumped so alarmingly.

Gal talent scout

HE might be out injured for six weeks but Origin skipper Paul Gallen is not just sitting around doing nothing.

Instead he's taking an active role in the Sharks' recruitment planning, helping out coach Peter Sharp and CEO Steve Noyce in identifying talent for 2015.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The trio met during the week to draw up a hit list of possible recruits. They have good money available with the departures of Andrew Fifita and Michael Lichaa plus the salary-cap increase.

Bedsy gets country call up

TRENT Barrett has signed up Newcastle Knights legend Danny Buderus as his assistant Country coach for the annual clash with City in Dubbo on May 4.

The players will love having the former Origin skipper in camp. Peter Sharp helped out last year but is obviously too busy at the Sharks.

Danny Buderus during a Newcastle Knights training session. Source: News Limited

Gallop raids NRL bunker

FOOTBALL Federation Australia boss David Gallop has signed up one of his gun operators from his days as NRL chief executive.

Trish Crews, the woman who launched the game's outstanding One Community division, has joined FFA.

She has tremendous contacts at the grassroots level where soccer continues to make big inroads.

Erin's wrecking-ball romance

CHANNEL Nine's glamorous rugby league personality Erin Molan has fallen in love with a footy player after meeting via Twitter.

The 30-year-old recently began dating Brisbane Lions vice captain Tom Rockliff.

Rugby League reporter Erin Molan is dating AFL star Tom Rockliff. Source: Supplied

It all started when the AFL star tweeted a screen shot of Molan from the Footy Show's wrecking ball ad. Some cyber banter followed and the pair eventually caught up.

Although Molan is reluctant to discuss the relationship, "it's early days" we're told, the long-distance separation has not been a problem. She has been spotted flying to Brisbane on Sunday nights to spend her days off in the Sunshine State.

SAINT

He might have played his last game of footy but Jharal Yow Yeh should never, ever be lost to rugby league. The youngster handled his injury-forced retirement announcement with unbelievable class during the week.

Broncos fans hold up a sign showing support for recently retired player Jharal Yow Yeh who was forced to retire due to a serious leg injury. Source: Getty Images

SINNER

Having to watch the Roosters and Broncos on delay with a thousand advertisements. It's the same with old rivals Parramatta and Manly this afternoon. The TV deal is a disgrace.

SPOTTED

Israel Folau, Jason Stevens, Tim Mannah and J oseph Paulo having dinner at the flash Rockpool Bar and Grill on Wednesday night.

SHOOSH I

Which big name NRL star has been sending photos of his privates to women on his mobile phone? In this day and age, you would think the Origin and test star would know better ... he is dicing with danger ...

SHOOSH II

We mentioned last week how the Bulldogs salary cap miracle workers were chasing Wests Tigers star fullback James Tedesco. The Roosters have beaten them to the punch and will announce his signing in the very near future.

James Tedesco breaks free from a tackle by Rabbitohs players. Source: Getty Images

SHOOSH III

If there was a betting market on the first coach sacked in 2014, the Warriors' Matthew Elliott would be a long odds-on favourite. Some are even suggesting he won't last until round five.

PAID ON TIME

Coach Wayne Bennett has confirmed he has been paid his monthly salary on time by the Newcastle Knights and is not concerned about their future, knowing the NRL will step in with a rescue package if Nathan Tinkler's ownership falls over.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

DREAM DEBUT

Channel Nine sports director Steve Crawley is raving about the performances of Brett Finch in his debut year as a footy commentator. And we agree. He knows the modern game and delivers his thoughts and analysis like a real pro.

HANDBAG GOES WELL

It was wonderful to see Channel 7 sports personality Jim 'handbag' Wilson on the netball court this week in a session with the NSW Swifts. It followed a challenge from wife Chris Bath on Twitter to test himself against the girls. "It certainly gave me a greater appreciation of how tough and physically demanding netball is," he told me afterwards.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Bedsy hooks Country Origin role

Danny Buderus will coach the Country side this year. Picture Gregg Porteous. Source: Gregg Porteous / News Limited

FORMER Newcastle Knights star Danny Buderus was never going to drift too far away from rugby league in retirement.

So it was no surprise when Buderus landed a jack-of-all-trades job with the Knights that includes player welfare, sponsorship liaison and a part-time coaching position mentoring the club's hookers.

But it's his latest gig that has the former NSW and Australian Test hooker excited.Buderus has been appointed assistant coach of the Country Origin squad and will be Trent Barrett's right-hand man in Dubbo when they take on Brad Fittler's City side in early May.

"Yeah, it's a great honour," Buderus said. "I must admit, since retiring I've picked up the coaching bug and I'm really interested in pursuing it. "I can't wait to get into camp with Baz (Barrett) and all the boys.

"Country won the game last season so we want to keep that going."

Buderus was chosen by Barrett with his assistants last season Peter Sharp (interim coach at the Cronulla Sharks) and Craig Fitzgibbon (promoted to the Kangaroos' support staff) unavailable.

MUDGEE may have missed out on staging Country-City or an NRL game this season but don't think for one minute their progressive local council is sitting on its hands.

We have been told council officials are currently negotiating with four NRL clubs in a bid to have an NRL match played at Glen Willow Stadium in 2015.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Force stun Chiefs, Badger strikes again

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

THE Western Force can dare to dream of landing a maiden finals berth in Super Rugby after a brace of tries from skipper Matt Hodgson lifted them to a 18-15 victory over the Chiefs in Saturday night's clash in Perth.

Hodgson scored the only two tries of the match to secure the Force's third-straight win, the result lifting the Perth-based franchise into the top six.

Relive the action at Match Centre — scores, stats and video highlights

The Force now have the chance to stretch their winning run to a franchise-record four games when they take on the Reds at Suncorp Stadium on April 5.

In a match filled with bruising tackles, the Force's defence was unrelenting, keeping the Chiefs' prolific backline at bay for the entire 80 minutes.

Chiefs winger Tim Nanai-Williams is stopped in his tracks by Nick Cummins. Source: Getty Images

The win was soured by a suspected shoulder injury to Wallabies forward Hugh McMeniman, who was playing his first game since hurting his neck three weeks ago.

Prop Kieran Longbottom was carried off in the 69th minute after copping a knee to the head while making a try-saving tackle.

The Force endured a few nervous moments after the final siren as the Chiefs advanced down the wing.

But a knock-on ended the hopes of the defending champions, with the 16,380-strong crowd cheering for joy as the Force players celebrated another deserved victory.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The Chiefs struggled to create clear-cut attacking forays throughout the match, but three penalties from flyhalf Aaron Cruden gave them a 9-8 lead at half-time.

The Force created a number of good chances early in the match, with a powerful rolling maul sending Hodgson over in the 13th minute.

Matt Hodgson celebrates a try with his Force teammates. Source: News Corp Australia

Force flyhalf Sias Ebersohn nailed a 47m penalty to give his side an 8-3 lead after 26 minutes.

The Chiefs should have been on the back foot when prop Jamie Mackintosh was shown a yellow card for repeat infringements in the 36th minute.

Instead, two penalties either side of half-time gave the Chiefs a 12-8 advantage.

The Force grabbed back the lead when Hodgson barged over for his second try in the 46th minute, before Ebersohn's 58th minute penalty extended the lead to six points.

"I'm absolutely thrilled for the blokes,'' Force coach Michael Foley said.

"The amount of character shown out there tonight against a champion side was outstanding.

"You could see the amount of heart the boys put into that performance.''

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie was disappointed with his team's effort.

"I thought we were poor,'' Rennie said.

"We just made far too many errors. It's hard to believe we led at half-time because we hardly fired a shot. We're a better side than that.

"Even mentally we didn't look that sharp.''

WESTERN FORCE 18 (Matt Hodgson 2 tries Sias Ebersohn con 2 pens) bt CHIEFS 15 (Aaron Cruden 4, Gareth Anscombe pens) at nib Stadium. Referee: Lourens van der Merwe. Crowd: 16,380.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Scott shocked with “horrific” loss

Lindsay Thomas was one of few positives for North with four goals. Photo by Michael Dodge Source: Michael Dodge / Getty Images

NORTH Melbourne's much-talked about midfield produced one of its worst performances during Brad Scott's reign as coach in last night's 39-point loss to Essendon.

The Roos were widely tipped to be one of the big improvers this season but were smashed around the contested ball in a season-opening reality check from the besieged Bombers.

And it could yet get worse for the Roos with ruckman Todd Goldstein set to undergo scans on a suspected serious shoulder injury that could sideline the big man for weeks if not months.

Scott described the loss as "horrific" and said he was shocked that his hardened ball-winners were obliterated in contested possessions 156 to 109 last night.

CHAPPY IGNITES BOMBERS

"In four or five years I can't recall us being that badly beaten in the contests," Scott said.

"When the opposition is hungrier than you and are more up for the contest and they just smash you around the ball — I can't think of a time ever in my time (as coach) that we have been beaten by almost 50 in contested possessions.

"And that is just so unlike the group we have got."

Aaron Mullett's body language says it all. Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images Source: Getty Images

It was Essendon which entered the game amid a shroud of controversy but Scott did not think external factors impacted the team's performance.

"I genuinely thought we were up for the contest, but we definitely weren't," he said.

The coach forecast a heavy focus on winning contested possession on the training track ahead of their Round 2 clash against Western Bulldogs next Sunday.

Goldstein will be closely monitored amid fears the top-flight ruckman injured his left shoulder tendon — something that could out him for up to three months, according to sports medicine expert Dr Peter Larkins.

Goldstein rucked manfully using mainly his right arm after hurting his left shoulder in the first quarter.

Scott said he hoped the injury wasn't serious but was adamant back-up big man Dan Carrie was ready to step up if called upon.

"The fact that he played on (is positive)," Scott said.

"There were certainly concerns about his rotator cuff, but we will have to get that scanned, I think it was difficult to tell.

"I wanted confirmation from Goldy himself that he was right to go (keep playing) and he felt he was, so the docs cleared him and Goldy felt he was right.

" Hopefully that means it's not too bad. If it is, Dan Currie is absolutely dying for his opportunity and if he gets his opportunity I expect him to take it."

Scott said he tried without success to clamp down on Bombers captain Jobe Watson, who starred with 39 possessions in the Bombers' rousing win.

Roos' midfielders Jack Ziebell had 12 possessions and Daniel Wells 11.

Scott said it was a "miracle" that the team remained in the hunt on the scoreboard and took a one-point lead momentarily in the second term.

"If there is a positive to come out of tonight for us it's that we were horrific, and yet I felt we were in the game the whole night right up until half way through the last quarter," he said.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Chappy ignites Bombers

Paul Chapman set the first quarter alight with two goals and a hand in another. Picture Michael Klein. Source: Michael Klein / News Corp Australia

NOT for the first time, it was the Essendon players who last night lifted the club above another day of off-field turmoil.

Right when the Bombers seemed on the brink of collapse, amid another stomach-turning chapter of the ASADA saga, captain Jobe Watson and his men made a powerful stand, launching the new season with an emphatic win over North Melbourne.

ELEMENTARY FOR WATSON

PLENTY OF LIFE IN OLD CAT

BOMBER: PLAYERS BOUGHT IN

SCOTT: MIDFIELD FAILED TO FIRE

Forgetting the cloud that hung over some players' careers, and the latest storm that concerned James Hird, Essendon united at Etihad Stadium to pulverise the much-hyped Roos by 39 points.

It again reiterated that the Bombers, supposedly at their most vulnerable mental state, have enormous heart and skill to execute a short-kicking game plan — that as we have seen in the first half of the past two seasons — can still trouble anyone.

The victory also eased the unquestionable knots in the fans stomachs about the coaching situation.

First-gamer Luke McDonald has his hands full with a rampaging Paul Chapman. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: News Corp Australia

For, even if Hird does not return, amid increased scrutiny on his position, they have a good one in Mark Thompson.

Last night, the boys clearly played for him. Especially ex-Cat Paul Chapman, who in his first game in red and black kicked four goals to spearhead the win for his former coach Thompson, showing there was plenty of gas left in the tank.

Finally, it celebrated Dustin Fletcher's record-breaking 379th game in the manner it deserved, after being overshadowed in the past 48 hours by the Hird fiasco.

North Melbourne looked anything but the big bolter this year, smashed in particular in the midfield and led comfortably at every change.

For all the preseason hype, North Melbourne's form was one of the biggest disappointments in the NAB series and throughout the first half last night, it seemed little had changed.

The Bombers again went with a short-chipping plan and looked as if they were almost waltzing upfield at times, racking up 60 more uncontested marks than North by the main change.

The Roos' defensive pressure was severely lacking, prompting Melbourne champion and special commentator Garry Lyon to claim the Roos were too "comfortable" with themselves.

What didn't help was the shoulder injury Todd Goldstein was forced to carry after hurting it in the first term.

Essendon captain Jobe Watson finished with 38 possessions. Picture by Michael Klein. Source: News Corp Australia

But most surprising though was North's inability to close down — or even look like wanting to contain — Watson. With his club again under siege, the Brownlow Medallist was superb, mustering 20 possessions by midway through the second term. So precise was Watson's haul by hand and foot that by midway through the last term he was still operating above 90 per cent efficiency.

Given the publicity storm of the past 24 hours, the timing of Watson's onball annihilation could not have been more important for a club severely questioning the motivations of its own coach (for 2015) James Hird.

Showing trademark leadership, Watson coolly slotted a 35m goal on a tight angle to put the Bombers up by 27 points midway through the third term.

The new-look Essendon forward line was functioning much more fluently than you would expect of a team which had farewelled key forwards Stewart Crameri and Scott Gumbleton and lost ruckman Tom Bellchambers over summer.

Colt Joe Daniher took several impressive marks including this stretch. Picture Wayne Ludbey. Source: News Corp Australia

Paul Chapman, looking anything but a washed-up veteran, provided the spark in attack. He booted two of the Bombers first three goals, one a long bomb and the other a signature snap. Unselfishly, Chapman also fed out a bullet handpass to teammate Ben Howlett at point blank range to play a central role in building the early buffer. More than anything his strength, finishing and sense of space has injected a weapon that will take some curtailing this season.

When second-year colt Joe Daniher reeled in courageous pack marks running blindly into a pack in the second, and then fourth quarters, Essendon fans saw shades of a young Wayne Carey, and rejoiced in the making of a special spearhead. At the other end, Essendon stopper Cale Hooker demolished North danger man and acting captain Drew Petrie.

North's only hope was small forward Lindsay Thomas. With the club's improved midfield well-beaten, Thomas filled the highlight reel, twice launching himself high on the backs of opponents to take an old-fashioned screamer.

He kept the Roos within 21 points nearing the last change when he bagged his fourth goal of the night, threading the tightest of angles under heavy pressure 40m out on the boundary.

But whenever one of his midfielders had the ball, there was nowhere to turn. The collection of Kangaroos' runners who fuelled the club's reputation as one of the most damaging and exciting offensive teams in the competition were hemmed in all night.

NORTH MELBOURNE: 9.6 (60)

ESSENDON: 15.9 (99)

JAY CLARK'S BEST

NORTH MELBOURNE BEST Thomas, Cunnington, MacMillan, Goldstein

ESSENDON BEST Watson, Chapman, Goddard, Hooker, Howlett, Heppell, Ryder

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Dutch pull off surprise at Super 10

Dutch courage ... Ireland's wicketkeeper Gary Wilson (left) unsuccessfully dislodges the bails to dismiss Netherlands' captain Peter Borren. Picture: AP Source: A.M. Ahad / AP

AN Australian touch and some Dutch courage have conjured one of world cricket's greatest fairytale stories with The Netherlands qualifying for the Super 10 stage at the World T20 in Bangladesh.

South Australian batsman Tom Cooper, who was unwittingly caught up in a "cheating" scandal at the start of the tournament, smashed 45 off 15 balls as the Dutch blew away Ireland's 189 in just 13.5 overs.

The men in orange pulled off one of the greatest run-chases in T20 history and are the minnows who have roared, qualifying for the main group where they will face South Africa, Sri Lanka and England.

England's T20 cricket has been so abysmal in recent times, you would give the Dutch a serious chance of beating them.

Cooper's young brother Ben and Western Australian all-rounder Michael Swart were the other Aussies in the Dutch team, which had a heavy overseas influence with players born in South Africa and New Zealand.

It has been an extraordinary turnaround in fortunes for The Netherlands who looked a rabble at the start of the tournament when they were rocked by cheating accusations.

Cooper, who qualifies for the Netherlands through his mother, was caught up in the controversy when he was a replacement for Tim Gruijters who was ruled out with a back injury.

Gruijters then released a YouTube video in which he said he wasn't injured at all, but was rather bullied into being forced out of the Dutch squad to make way for Cooper.

He also labelled the Dutch coaching setup as cheats and a disgrace.

Cooper's value to the Netherlands has been obvious with unbeaten knocks of 34 and 72 in the previous two games before his batting pyrotechnics against Ireland.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Bombers buy in to win big

Bomber Thompson gestures towards his troops. Picture Wayne Ludbey. Mark Thompson. Source: Wayne Ludbey / News Corp Australia

ESSENDON coach Mark Thompson praised his players for buying into his game plan to set up the thumping 39 points win against North Melbourne.

Thompson said the Bombers followed instructions to implement the modern high-possessions game to deny the Roos the ball at Etihad Stadium.

CHAPPY IGNITES BOMBERS

ELEMENTARY FOR WATSON

PLENTY OF LIFE IN OLD CAT

"It was a good start, we couldn't be more pleased, to be honest,'' Thompson said.

"We played a good, strong first game of the year. The whole club is pleased to have a good win against a team we rate.

"It looked like we were doing things we've been practising and they carried them out. When you start well, it's a great thing for everyone. The scoreboard was ticking over early.''

Paul Chapman and Brendon Goddard were two of Essendon's very best. Picture Wayne Ludbey. Source: News Corp Australia

Thompson said everyone at the club was instructed to not let the latest James Hird furore become a distraction.

"I tried very hard not to concentrate on that and we told all the players not to even go there,'' he said.

"It's not the right time. We've got a game on and I wanted all my players, all my staff to just concentrate on the game.

"We'll let the committee and board deal with that when they do. I think enough has been said by Paul Little about what the next couple of days look like.

"I didn't even want to go there to get upset. To be honest, I had a day where I just had a lot of messages, all my friends in the world texted me to wish me all the best.

"I was busy replying to them. I didn't have a snooze, I wanted to have a snooze. I busy enough without worrying about that stuff.''

Dunstin Fletcher unloads a torpedo. Picture by Wayne Ludbey. Source: News Corp Australia

Thompson said a positive vibe from Dustin Fletcher's club record 379th game "last about 30 seconds'', although the veteran defender was chuffed with the win when he addressed the players and staff after the game.

"He just told the team all his other milestones, they've lost, so he's really happy to have won one. We'll do the same for his 400th and 450th,'' the coach said.

Thompson said he was impressed with the spread of goalkickers, like Paul Chapman's four in his first game for the club, three from Brendon Goddard and Jobe Watson's two.

"Little Chappy, he's pretty well liked by the playing group and the coach likes him too. Four goals first game, used the ball well and he's good to have around the club,'' he said.

"I like his leadership here and I think he's liking it too. He didn't offer that much at the Cats, he didn't have to, he was playing with guys who knew what they were doing. So I think he's enjoying that new element at this club.

"Everyone's saying where are they going to kick their goals? It doesn't matter where you get them from. Good players get the ball whatever part of the game they play in.

"Watson has always shown that ability to kick goals and take contested marks, Chapman will do the same, Goddard will do the same, Stanton. So we'll kick enough goals.''

Thompson said he had never previously played three first-gamers and he was particularly impressed with Patrick Ambrose.

"I got angry at a few things, the old ones that used to get me back then too,'' he said of his return to the senior AFL coaches role.

"I probably have just got to settle down, mature. I'm doing it for 22 weeks, I should have a bit more fun and try as win as many games as we can and enjoy the year.''

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

How Hasler inspired a GWS miracle

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

THE rookie AFL coach who masterminded Sydney's biggest sporting upset in years got his ideas from Bulldogs NRL coach Des Hasler and a wrestling expert from the Sydney Roosters.

GWS Giants coach Leon Cameron has revealed he built the team's ruthless, relentless defence around strategies from the rival code.

Cameron played 250 games for the Western Bulldogs and has done a 10-year coaching apprenticeship. He is originally from Warrnambool in Victoria and was raised by a single mum.

He caught up with sports editor-at-large Phil Rothfield to discuss the miracle win over the Swans and his hopes of turning the Giants into a western Sydney force.

GWS coach Leon Cameron. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

How did you beat the Swans? They were $1.02! I can't recall a bigger upset.

Our guys were up for the challenge. In the first year or two we got belted around the ears but the rivalry with the Swans is really building and it's fantastic for the code.

We stepped up. The guys had their third pre-season together. They're a year older. Plus the influence of having mature players at the club can't be underestimated.

They help the young guys in games when we look like losing control. Plus we were probably three weeks ahead of them in preparation because they played in finals and didn't come back as early as we did. We overran them in the end.

Phil Rothfield talks with Leon Cameron. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

Everyone was talking about your defence.

We have really good connections with NRL clubs Canterbury, Parramatta and the Roosters. We're learning off each other.

We spent some of the off-season with Des Hasler and the Bulldogs looking at statistics and our tackling.

They talk about the aggression in defence, the technique, which they do better than the AFL. Plus we got Larry Papadopoulos (wrestling and grapple expert) from the Roosters. He studied tapes of our games and came up with some great ideas to help in wrestling and tackling.

We helped them (Canterbury) out with kicking and catching. One of our assistant coaches spends a fair bit of time with them.

State of the art gym at the GWS Giants' training complex. Picture Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

Okay, before we go further, can I test your knowledge on Western Sydney? We once asked Kevin Sheedy who Nathan Hindmarsh was and he famously said a stadium in Adelaide.

Okay, (laughs) off you go.

Who is Jarryd Hayne?

This is a trap. Wests Tigers. Sorry, I don't know. And please don't think I'm being disrespectful to Jarryd.

Wrong. He plays for Parramatta. Next question. Who is Phillip Ronald Gould?

Phil Gould, he's NSW State of Origin coach.

He used to be. He's now Penrith's general manager.

Don't you stoush a bit with Phil Gould? I looked up some of your articles on Google before you came out here.

I saw there was a bit of Gould v Rothfield stuff.

GWS players celebrate victory. Picture: Mark Evans Source: News Limited

I wouldn't say we were close. Moving on to Israel Folau. Seeing what a magnificent athlete he is and what he's doing for the Waratahs, any regrets about him not being here?

It would have been fantastic to have him here. He was progressing on the right track. But I walked in the day he walked out. By all reports he was outstanding with the group. It would have been good to see where he went in a couple of years but his heart was not in it. The way he exited — it was all class. He's still got some of his best mates here. He supports us, we support him.

You knocked off Buddy Franklin and the Swans last week. He's struggled a little bit since arriving. Are you still dirty you didn't get him.

I'm not dirty. One door closed and others opened for us. Heath Shaw from Collingwood, Shane Mumford from the Swans, Josh Hunt from Geelong and Dylan Addison from the Western Bulldogs all came to our club. I think it's fantastic he (Franklin) is up here in Sydney. He's an outstanding player and he'll bring people to the footy.

We were lucky enough to beat them at the weekend. But it's one game. He'll show what he can do, don't worry.

Indoor training area at the GWS Giants' training complex. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

Doesn't this club still need a superstar like Franklin or Ablett on the Gold Coast not just to win games but to promote the club?

I'm really confident with the players coming through, like Jeremy Cameron, Jon Patton, Tom Boyd, No. 1 pick last year. People have this infatuation with big-name players — we've got three or four coming through. It's only a matter of time before they become household names.

But they could walk down Church St in Parramatta and not be recognised?

Cameron Smith and Billy Slater are massive names in Melbourne. They are huge. That took a bit of time. This is a generational thing for us.

We have to identify young talent, bring it in and nurture it. Like Kieren Jack at the Swans, a Pennant Hills boy.

That puts you in competition with the Swans.

We have one eye on now, which is our week-to-week performances, and the other eye is on developing players from our own territory. I know Adam Goodes has come from Ballarat but look what he's done for the Swans.

He's been enormous for the game, not just in footy circles but in life. We know we've got a challenge but we're going to hit it head on.

When our performances are not up to scratch, I've got to take responsibility. I do expect us to be a little more competitive this year.

State of the art gym at the GWS Giants' training complex. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

What's the timeline for a top-eight finish?

With young kids at this level we'll go up and down. We'll fluctuate from performances like last weekend to sub-par in maybe four or five weeks. Who knows?

You'll have impatient fans. Everyone wants to win.

That's what we're building towards. Everyone is judged on winning. We'll go to the trade table again this year to look for more mature players to balance the roster and help develop the great young talent we have.

How hands-on is Kevin Sheedy?

Sheeds blooded all those kids you saw on the weekend before they were ready to play. He had to.

Ten of our young kids have now got 30 and 40 games experience. No one could have started us better than Sheeds.

I spend a bit of time with him every week. We talk footy. I'm a first-year coach. He's a 35-year coach.

Is it hard playing in empty stadiums?

That was the great thing last weekend. Our players saw 17,000 at our home ground. Great noise, great atmosphere. We're not always going to have that. We're at a baby stage. It's going to take time to build our supporter base.

We're not here to compete with NRL and soccer, we're giving fans an opportunity to follow AFL footy.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Debutantes Nepal upset Afghanistan

Nepal's Subash Khakurel plays a shot as Afghanistan's wicketkeeper Mohammad Shahzad, right, watches. Source: Bikas Das / AP

FIRST-TIMERS Nepal have upset a higher ranked and more experienced Afghanistan by nine runs to record their second win in the World Twenty20 tournament on Thursday.

Nepal, sent in to bat, were lifted by opener Subash Khakurel's career-best 56 to 141-5 and restricted their opponents to 132-8 in a Group A match.

The defeat meant Afghanistan lost two of their three matches and failed to reach the next round.

Paceman Jitendra Mukhiya, who finished with 3-18 in four overs, jolted Afghanistan with two early wickets, while spinner Shakti Gauchan took two wickets in one over to leave Afghanistan in tatters on 50-5.

Shafiqullah Shafiq (36) and Asghar Stanikzai (49) did their best to stop the collapse. But a 24-run target in the last over proved way beyond Afghanistan's reach.

Earlier Khakurel anchored the Nepalese innings with some sensible batting, adding an invaluable 76 for the fourth wicket with Sharad Vesawkar who made 37.

Khakurel hit six boundaries and a six during his 53-ball knock before falling to paceman Shapoor Zadran, the best of the Afghan bowlers with 2-19.

Nepal will now await the outcome of the last match in the group, with hosts Bangladesh needing a win against the United Arab Emirates to go through to the next round.

Ireland, the Netherlands and Zimbabwe are in contention to qualify for the next round from Group B.

The top team from each group will join eight seeded teams in the Super-10 stage, starting Friday.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Red Bull appeals disqualification

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

FORMULA One team Red Bull has officially appealed to motorsport's governing body over Daniel Ricciardo's disqualification from last weekend's season-opening Australian Grand Prix.

The Australian driver thrilled the home crowd with a second-place finish behind German winner Nico Rosberg to secure what looked like his first career podium on his debut for Red Bull, where he replaced veteran driver Mark Webber during the off-season.

However, he was stripped of the result due to a technical breach. Race stewards said his car violated fuel-flow rules introduced this year which limit cars to 100kg of fuel during the race.

The FIA subsequently disqualified Ricciardo, elevating McLaren drivers Kevin Magnussen and Jenson Button to second and third, respectively.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

‘Wins better than beer money’

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

EVERTON manager Roberto Martinez said the team's results in the final 10 matches of this season will have more of an impact upon recruitment than a renewal of a sponsorship deal with a Thai beer company.

The Merseyside club announced on Thursday they had extended their shirt agreement with Chang beer, which is now worth more than 16 million pounds ($29 million) over the next three years.

However, the deal is dwarfed by agreements secured by the likes of neighbours Liverpool and Premier League rivals Arsenal worth 20 million pounds and 30 million pounds respectively.

But Martinez said where Everton, currently sixth in the Premier League, finish and whether they qualify for European football would be the key influence on how attractive a move to Goodison Park would be for potential new players.

"Obviously the sponsorship deal with Chang is a relationship which has been over 10 years and you don't get these relationships in Premier League clubs and we value that," Martinez said.

"To be able to sign a new three-year deal is exciting for both parties but it doesn't change anything (on transfers)," the Spaniard added.

"We are in that key moment of the campaign with 30 points to play for and every player is desperate to have a big say and that is the only thing that matters.

"Whatever happens in the summer will be the next step but many of the decisions will depend on how we do in the next 10 games so you can imagine the focus goes into those games."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Crows ready to fly, says Sando

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

BRENTON Sanderson says Adelaide has put a tough pre-season behind it and is in "a really good head space'' going into Thursday night's round one clash against Geelong.

While the club has had to deal with the shock of losing popular assistant coach Dean Bailey to cancer and a long list of injuries, Sanderson said the players had switched their focus to the daunting road trip to Simonds Stadium.

"And we'll be going over there to play well and win,'' the Crows coach said.

"We're fit, we're strong and there seems to be a really good resilience among the boys at the moment.''

Sanderson will hand Crows debuts to gun recruits James Podsiadly, recruited from Geelong, and former Blue Eddie Betts on Thursday night.

He has surprisingly overlooked prized rookie Matt Crouch, naming him as an emergency, and athletic big man Josh Jenkins, who has lost out to Shaun McKernan, in the battle to be Sam Jacobs' ruck partner. Jenkins is the travelling emergency.

Crows co-captain Rory Sloane at training on Wednesday. Picture: Daniel Kalisz.

The underdog Crows, who could not consider eight first-choice players because of injuries or interrupted pre-seasons, will field a bunch of players who haven't been AFL regulars, including McKernan, Lewis Johnston, Brodie Martin, Sam Kerridge, Sam Shaw, Matthew Jaensch and Jarryd Lyons.

"There are some good stories of guys who have worked their backsides off over the summer and forced their way into the round one side, which is great," Sanderson said.

Sanderson said the Crows would not use Bailey's passing as extra motivation to start well.

"We won't mention it at all in the pre-game,'' Sanderson said.

"Players will be driven their own personal way, whether it's with the memories of Dean or the opportunity to play well in round one.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

"But I can't see myself using those sort of cliches like 'do it for Bails' — whether it's round one or round 20 or in the finals, we'll just leave it up to the players to use their own inspiration.''

Sanderson said the players would be fully focused on their task on Thursday night after having "a bit of closure'' at Bailey's memorial service at Adelaide Oval last Saturday.

"It was a really nice, beautiful send off, and I think for most us that was a bit of closure. That was our chance to say goodbye,'' he said.

"And probably since that Saturday afternoon our focus has purely been on getting back to focusing on round one.''

Sanderson described playing at Simonds Stadium — where Geelong has won 43 of its past 44 home-and-away matches — as "the toughest road trip in the AFL''.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

"For whatever reason, they play the ground really well,'' Sanderson said.

"So it will be a tough assignment for us but we're certainly going over there to play well and win.

"We certainly respect this team, Geelong is a very good side, particularly at Simonds Stadium.

"But we won't fear them, we'll go over there with a good young side which is ready to play.''

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Murray and coach Lendl split

Andy Murray at a practice session ahead of the 2014 Australian Open as coach Ivan Lendl looks on. Picture: Getty Source: Michael Dodge / Getty Images

AFTER a fruitful two-year relationship, Wimbledon champion Andy Murray has parted ways with coach Ivan Lendl - the man who turned him from a four-time Grand Slam runner-up into a two-time major champion.

Murray and Lendl announced their decision on Murray's blog overnight, a few days after Murray lost in the fourth round at Indian Wells.

In their joint statement, it appeared Czech-born Lendl had been the instigator of the split.

"Working with Andy over the last two years has been a fantastic experience for me,'' Lendl said. "He is a first class guy. Having helped him achieve his goal of winning major titles, I feel like it is time for me to concentrate on some of my own projects moving forward including playing more events around the world which I am really enjoying.

"I will always be in Andy's corner and wish him nothing but great success as he too goes into a new phase of his career.''

Murray paid tribute to Lendl's positive impact on his career.

"I'm eternally grateful to Ivan for all his hard work over the past two years, the most successful of my career so far,'' said Murray, who returned from back surgery this season.

"As a team, we've learned a lot and it will definitely be of benefit in the future. I'll take some time with the team to consider the next steps and how we progress from here.''

With Lendl, Murray won Olympic gold in London in 2012 and the US Open title later the same year.

In 2013, he became the first British player to triumph at Wimbledon in 77 years.

Ivan Lendl and Andy Murray at the Winner's Ball after winning Wimbledon in 2013. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

Before winning the US Open, Murray was 0-4 in Grand Slam finals. Only one other man in the Open era, which began in 1968, lost his first four major titles matches: Lendl.

The Czech-born baseline player then went on to win eight Grand Slam singles titles during a 17-year career, spending 270 weeks at No. 1 in the world rankings.

Lendl first got involved with Murray in December 2011. Despite a lack of coaching experience, Lendl immediately struck a chord with his protege as Murray made it to the Wimbledon final, where he lost to Roger Federer in four sets.

Murray's breakthrough came a month later when he beat Federer in the Olympic final at the All England Club.

He then defeated defending champion Novak Djokovic in the final at Flushing Meadows to win the US Open - his first Grand Slam singles title.

Lendl has recently played exhibitions in Kansas City, Oklahoma City, Nashville, Charlotte and London.

He has also been giving clinics in the Canary Islands as well as opening new courts in Bluffton, South Carolina, at the Ivan Lendl Junior Tennis Academy.

Murray will be defending his Miami title next week before leading Britain in the quarterfinals of the Davis Cup next month against Italy.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Robben extends Bayern contract

Arjen Robben (centre) is happy to stay at Bayern Munich. Source: CHRISTOF STACHE / AFP

ARJEN Robben extended his contract with Champions League titleholder Bayern Munich on Wednesday to 2017.

Robben's contract was to expire in June after five seasons. The Netherlands winger will stay with Bayern for another three seasons.

Robben scored the deciding goal in the 2-1 win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final last season, when Bayern completed its first treble by also taking the Bundesliga and German Cup.

Bayern was on track to win all three trophies again this season and could clinch the Bundesliga title this weekend.

The 30-year-old Robben said he was having "incredible fun" with Bayern and was looking forward "to many more titles".

"We are very pleased that Arjen has extended his contract," Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said. "He is a great player and he's shown his importance for Bayern, not only in the Wembley final. Arjen is an important pillar of our team and will remain so in the coming years."

Robben has 55 goals and 36 assists in 98 Bundesliga matches for Bayern

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Wanderers make it two in a row in Asia

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

SO much for not taking Asia seriously. The Wanderers sit in second place in their Champions League group after a second consecutive win, defeating Kawasaki Frontale 1-0 last night at Parramatta Stadium.

Labinot Haliti scored after just three minutes, and for the next 87 Western Sydney threw heart and muscle in the way of their J-League visitors. By the end the pitch seemed almost as saturated as after Saturday's storms, but this time from sweat alone.

Tony Popovic's tactics seemed to involve squeezing Kawasaki to death, especially having gone in front so early. Continually the Wanderers coach urged his men to compact their shape, presenting a mass that the visitors found impenetrable.

"It's what you expect in the Asian Champions League — a hard game against a difficult opponent," said Popovic. "We rode our luck towards the end but look at the side we had — Anthony Golec hasn't played all year, Daniel Mullen since November 1, Tomi Juric has been out for weeks.

"It was a fantastic achievement and a fantastic result."

The Wanderers had to withstand constant pressure from Kawasaki. Source: AFP

It was an unashamed triumph of attrition, and hugely effective in its way. Only once in the first half was their serious alarm for the Western Sydney defence, when Jun Kanabuko picked up a loose ball and let fly with a shot that Ante Covic could only parry. Following up, Yu Kobayashi guided the loose ball wide.

As the Wanderers had already shown, key moments like that had to be seized. The game was only in its third minute when Kwabena Appiah turned his man in midfield and drove towards the Kawasaki box, before angling a perceptive ball into the path of Tomi Juric. Shaping to shoot, the striker almost lost control before guiding the ball to the far post where Haliti lurked and scored with ease.

After such an encouraging start it was frustrating to see Western Sydney unable to control the game, undermined by careless use of possession. Recent excellent results for the A-League sides in the ACL have had that common and troubling caveat where ownership of the ball is discarded far too cheaply.

Tomi Juric was an impressive attacking presence for Western Sydney. Source: Getty Images

Kawasaki had engineered a series of chances after the break — two to Kentaro Moriya, one stabbed wide in the box and the other a long range shot saved by Covic, while Kobayashi miscued right in front of goal.

The pressure from the visitors was beginning to tell, with Western Sydney's defence dropping ever deeper and the tension obvious. Both Anthony Golec and Mooy gave away corners with miskicks, Kobayashi had an air swing at the near post, then Yusuke Tanaka curled a shot a fraction wide of Covic's goal.

Further back retreated the lines of red and black, almost into their own goal. Yoshito Okubo waltzed his way through but somehow scuffed his shot wide, then in the dying seconds lifted a shot just too high.

But still not as high as the Wanderers aspirations in Asia now.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Court action has Tigers on death row

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

WHEN this newspaper suggested Wests Tigers was vulnerable to being relocated Interstate over the weekend, the club recoiled and publicly denounced the idea.

We now wait with interest as to how the Tigers elect to respond on Wednesday afternoon, when the NSW Supreme Court decides whether Balmain Leagues Club should be placed into the hands of receivers.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

On death row since ambitious renewal plans for its Rozelle premises began to sour six years ago, the Leagues Club will be executed if Justice Paul Brereton rejects its bid for an injunction to stop the developer from calling-in an $8.7 million debt.

Operational since 1957, the Club needed upfront money from the developer in 2008, so it could payout staff and continue operating from two interim sites. Part of the advance was also used to help Balmain Football Club — a joint venture partner of Wests Tigers — uphold its financial commitment to the NRL franchise.

Martin Taupau of the Tigers celebrates with team mates. Source: Getty Images

But over the past two seasons the money has disappeared, along with any genuine hope of the NSW Government approving a high-rise construction on Victoria Rd.

The Court on Tuesday heard Balmain Leagues Club is carrying $7 million in liabilities, and has suffered a combined loss of $2.7 million over the past three financial years.

In that time the Leagues Club has been unable to assist the Football Club to meet its obligations to Wests Tigers. When the NRL team suffered an unexpected $2 million loss in 2012, Balmain could not cover its half of the shortfall and the black hole has only grown bigger since.

The other joint venture partner — Wests Group — had the money, but, in exchange, wanted boardroom control over Wests Tigers. Proud Balmain directors rejected that offer, more attracted to the NRL giving both stakeholders a loan to cover their outstanding debts to the joint venture.

Luke Brooks scores for the Tigers and is hugged by Braith Anasta. Source: News Corp Australia

In return for the money — believed to be about $8 million — the NRL has claimed three seats on the new seven-man board. Balmain and Wests split the remaining four spots, although Balmain's representatives cannot vote until their share of the NRL loan is repaid.

But there's an even more dire consequence if Balmain cannot cough-up the dough within two years. As revealed in Saturday's Daily Telegraph, Balmain's stake will revert to the NRL, dissolving the foundation club of any link to the elite competition.

If Balmain's capacity to maintain its commitments to Wests Tigers has vanished, what chance does it stand to raise $4 million in just two years?

One beacon of hope was the Leagues Club getting back on its feet in Rozelle. But that was destroyed last Friday, when the developer formally issued a demand for it's $8 million loan — plus $700,000 interest — to be handed back within 48 hours.

Martin Taupau scores during the Gold Coast Titans v Wests Tigers. Source: News Corp Australia

Regardless of Wednesday's outcome in the Supreme Court, the Leagues Club faces a grim future.

It's relationship with the developer is now clearly unworkable. For Balmain football club, and by extension Wests Tigers, that avenue of funding is now blocked.

The last chance for Balmain is raising $4 million from its own members and fans, with club directors optimistic that an extremely rich and extremely generous benefactor might answer the SOS. But should there be no response, the NRL will take control in two years time.

And do you really think it's in the NRL's interest to keep nine teams in Sydney?

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The snug fit of the 'Wests Tigers' moniker to a relocated team in Perth has not been lost on concerned figures close to the club.

CEO Grant Mayer was vehement in his rejection of any plans to move the team on Saturday, but should Balmain fail in their mission it won't be his decision to make.

That call will belong to Dave Smith, a banking whiz who has just delivered rugby league a $49.6 million surplus.

Smith is also watching TV ratings and crowds decline, particularly in Sydney's overcrowded market. He, like all realistic and rational observers, knows the squeeze cannot be tolerated much longer.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Father-son Roo McDonald to debut

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

NORTH Melbourne will unleash prized father-son recruit Luke McDonald in Friday night's season opener against Essendon.

McDonald, 19, known for his attacking style and precision skills, looms as one of three possible new faces with elevated Kangaroos rookie Joel Tippett and Daniel Currie in the mix.

Taken with pick no. 8 in the national draft, McDonald, used largely across half back, played in both Kangaroos' NAB Challenge losses.

WEDNESDAY ON SUPERFOOTY: BEHIND THE SCENES MULTIMEDIA SPECIAL WITH LUKE McDONALD AND BRENT HARVEY

McDonald missed the club's practice match against Geelong with an illness.

"It's been the aim for over a year now and for it to finally happen it's exciting, I just can't wait to get out there on Friday night and wear the blue and white stripes," McDonald said.

McDonald's father, Donald, played 155 games with North before turning his hand to administrative ranks.

North Melbourne draftee Luke McDonald 19yrs is pictured with his father Donald at home in Kew. Donald McDonald played more than 150 games with North Melbourne. Picture Ian Currie. Source: News Corp Australia

McDonald said North Melbourne coach Brad Scott delivered him a simple message at training yesterday.

"He just told me not to change anything I've done this pre-season, I've been picked for a reason and that's because of the way I've gone about it so far," McDonald said.

"When he told me out the front of my locker a lot of the boys got around me and it was very exciting."

PRE-SEASON INSIDER: PART 1

PRE-SEASON INSIDER: PART 2

Scott told the <i>Herald Sun</i> McDonald was a complete player worthy of his selection.

"We gave him every opportunity in the pre-season and some pretty big roles through the midfield and in defence and he's accepted every challenge that's come his way," Scott said.

"He plays his best when he's just going in with a mindset of being ultra competitive.

"I don't mind if he makes mistakes being aggressive and proactive, but I hate mistakes on the back of hesitation and when Luke is playing well he's not hesitating."

Scott said McDonald benefited from training with the club part-time last year, while playing for VFL affiliate Werribee.

"He's slotted in as more of a second-year player than a first-year player," Scott said.

"This year we haven't treated him like a first-year player, his running loads and training loads (are that) of the more experienced players."

Joel Tippett has had to fight for his AFL life. Photo by Scott Barbour Source: Getty Images

Upgraded rookie Joel Tippett is also in the frame to make his North Melbourne debut in the season-opener.

Scott said Tippett — the 25-year-old younger brother of Sydney forward Kurt — and fringe tall Daniel Currie would be in the squad.

Ruckman/forward Majak Daw will be left out after enduring a frustrating pre-season as he has recovered from a knee injury.

Key defender Nathan Grima sought physio treatment on his foot during a training hit-out yesterday, and Tippett, who has spent the past two seasons in the SANFL, would be the likely inclusion if Grima does not come up.

Daniel Currie wrestles with Sam Rowe Picture Wayne Ludbey. Source: News Limited

"He (Tippett) has been in terrific form in the pre-season and taken some really big jobs on the opposition's key forwards," Scott said yesterday.

"He'll come up off the rookie list.

"Dan Currie will definitely be in the squad. He probably hasn't transferred his training form into game form, but we're really looking for that third key forward slot at the moment and Dan has been the one that has jumped up and grabbed that opportunity more than anyone else — and he also gives (Todd) Goldstein ruck relief as well."

Who do you think will win?

Scott said Daw had been thrown into the pre-season game against Hawthorn in a bid to get some match-time into him, but said he would not pick him when he was clearly still underdone.

"The biggest problem we've had with Majak is availability — he's played a bit in the pre-season but his training has been really interrupted," he said.

"I'm loath to pick Majak this week just based on lack of preparation — it's really frustrating because I see him as a big part of our future, but we just need to get some continuity."

Captain Andrew Swallow looked to be moving well in his restricted training as he continues his recovery from a ruptured Achilles tendon, but he is unlikely to play before about Round 5.

Young forward Tom Curran will be placed on the long term injury list as he recovers from a footy injury.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

King‘s victory from the heart: Kent

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

IT seems everybody has offered their opinion on toughness in the NRL now that you can no longer belt someone around the head five or six times or climb from the deck, sway like a sailor on shore leave, and head back into the fray.

But a toughness remains, and was revealed in all its purple glory last weekend. There is still a place in the game for men whose hearts, deep down where you cannot measure, beat a little differently.

It happened Friday in the minutes after Ben Teo and Luke Burgess knocked the dust from the shoulders of Justin Horo, 60 minutes in. The Rabbitohs led 12-6, against a Sea Eagles team outmatched and holding on.

TAKE PART IN OUR SUPERCOACH CHALLENGE!

Jason King during Manly training at NSW Academy of Sport at Narabeen. pic. Phil Hilyard Source: News Corp Australia

Horo dropped the ball in the collision and the referee whistled the knock on and the packs came together for a scrum. Then Sam Burgess patted Horo on the chest while sticking a few icicles in his ear.

Wearily making his way to the scrum was Jason King, playing his first game since April last year when he walked off during the game against Souths with a shoulder that needed reconstructing.

King knew Burgess was the intimidator in the Souths pack.

More than that, he knew one of the first rules of war is that when you shoot the general, the troops will scatter, and that Burgess is South Sydney's general.

King walked after Burgess, into the meat of the Souths pack, and players from both sides came to separate them.

Sam happily chatted away.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The Rabbitohs won the scrum and, second tackle, Luke Burgess took it up and walked into a one-man ambush when King hit him with a shot that brought a shriek from Ray Warren in the commentary box.

Two tackles later George Burgess took the ball forward and King put himself opposite him and went with the shoulder again.

Next tackle came Sam.

Burgess was a little wide for King to make first contact, but as the Sea Eagles defenders wrapped him up King got across to help bring him down and Burgess went to the turf smiling, almost to himself, and the moment the ball was played he was back into King.

Manly got a penalty soon after and as they kicked for the line Burgess called on King to run at him.

When King finally took the ball he looked up and spotted Luke and George first and, what else, went straight at them.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

It was tough and it was personal. It was enough that you hoped all those people questioning the toughness in the game were able to look a little closer.

Manly found something in those few minutes.

"I believe that won us the game," Kieran Foran told Nine's Sunday Footy Show.

"Just watching him go crack one of the Burgess boys, and then calling out the other two, as a player on that team, you just feel like here's a bloke that says 'Get behind me, I'm going to lead us forward and I'll do anything to get the win'."

Before the set was over Manly scored to level it 12-all, before taking it 14-12.

King said nothing after the game, and even when trotted out yesterday he praised his teammates, describing the Rabbitohs as a "tough challenge for our forward group" before praising the talents of the Burgess brothers.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Hidden away, nobody knows the depth of what King went through Friday night.

He missed the 2011 grand final after tearing his pectoral muscle.

He came back in 2012 and his shoulder went this time, bringing on a season ending shoulder reconstruction, before he did it again last year, missing the 2013 grand final.

He has spent the best part of three years in the rehab group, unable to lift anything heavier than a fork.

And yet Friday night, in a game questioning its own toughness, he took on the Burgess brothers, who are some specimens themselves, with nothing more than what some call the great tick of the heart.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

PLAYER DEPTH A SALARY CAP ISSUE

CRONULLA'S performance against Canterbury highlighted an old chestnut in the NRL - the lack of depth at some clubs when injuries take a few players out of a team.

The Sharks were brave early, but tremendously outmatched after going into the game without Paul Gallen, Andrew Fifita and co.

It underlines the need for diligence in salary cap policing.

One of the NRL's favourite claims in its early days was the rotation of grand finalists and semi-finalists as the salary cap impacted on teams every new season.

That claim has disappeared in recent years.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

It's amazing how some clubs have been able to stockpile strong rosters, and can almost replace like for like when it comes to injury, while others lose one or two and suddenly look like they're trotting out a reserve grade team.

There is no doubt the leading clubs are better managed then many of the bottom clubs. But there is also an almost perfect correlation between the rich clubs and the top clubs, which is worrying.

There's no point having a salary cap if only half the league takes notice.

Join Ben Ikin and Paul Kent on NRL360 tonight to dissect all the big issues from Round 2 - from 7.30pm on Fox 1.

BLOG WITH PAUL KENT FROM 1PM (AEDT) TODAY

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Afghans send Hong Kong packing

Afghanistan batsman Mohammad Shahzad acknowledges the crowd after scoring a 50. Source: Bikas Das / AP

MOHAMMAD Shahzad and Shafiqullah Shafiq hit aggressive half-centuries to help Afghanistan beat Hong Kong by seven wickets in the World Twenty20 tournament in Chittagong on Tuesday.

Shahzad notched up a fiery 53-ball 68 while Shafiq smashed a career-best 50 not out off just 24 balls to help Afghanistan reach their 154-run target with 12 balls to spare in the Group A match.

Shahzad, who was in miserable form in the preceding Asia Cup and was out for nought in the first game against Bangladesh, hit three sixes and six boundaries in a chancy knock.

Shafiq completed the task with a well-timed boundary to complete his maiden fifty and seal the win.

Shahzad had his full share of luck. Sloppy Hong Kong fielding gave him two lives, on 25 and 64.

And when he was finally dismissed in the 16th over with 38 still needed, the Afghans were far from home.

But Shafiq hit three sixes off paceman Aizaz Ahmed's 17th over to reduce the target to 11 runs.

Hong Kong had lost their first match to Nepal and a second defeat means they are out of the tournament.

Afghan cricketer Gulbadin Naib tries to catch a ball. Source: AFP

Afghanistan, who went down to hosts Bangladesh in their first game, earned a lifeline with Tuesday's win as they try to get through to the next round.

Hong Kong, who chose to bat, got off to a disastrous start when they lost opener Irfan Ahmed to the first ball of the match, bowled by left-arm paceman Shapoor Zadran who finished with 2-27.

It was left to Mark Chapman (38), Waqas Barkat (32) and Jamie Atkinson (31) to put the innings back on track with some sensible batting.

Barkat and Chapman added 60 for the third wicket and at 102-3 in the 14th over, Hong Kong should have put together a higher total then their 153-8.

But spinners Mohammad Nabi (2-27) and Hamza Hotak (2-32) put the brakes on Hong Kong's progress.

The top team from each of the two preliminary groups will join the eight seeded teams in the Super-10 stage, starting March 21.

Ireland and the Netherlands won their opening matches in Group B on Monday.

Hong Kong cricketer Mark Chapman is hit by a bouncer. Source: AFP

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Irish eyes smiling at World T20

Ireland's Andy McBrine, right, celebrates with Gary Wilson after taking a wicket. Source: A.M. Ahad / AP

OPENER Paul Stirling smashed 60 off 34 balls to set Ireland up for a last-ball victory over Zimbabwe in their first-round match in the World Twenty20 championship on Monday.

Stirling's fifth Twenty20 half-century, including nine fours and a six, helped Ireland to a three-wicket victory on St Patrick's Day at the Sylhet stadium.

Ireland needed four runs off the last over but lost Ed Joyce (22) and Max Sorensen, run out without scoring, before winning through a bye off the last ball of the over — bowled by paceman Tinashe Panyangara who finished with 4-37.

Stirling and skipper William Porterfield, who scored a 23-ball 31 with three fours and a six, had given Ireland a fiery 80-run start in 8.2 overs as their run chase began confidently.

A ruthless Stirling hit paceman Panyangara for four boundaries in one over before he fell with the total on 100.

Ireland batsman Paul Stirling plays a shot as Zimbabwe wicketkeeper Brendan Taylor watches. Source: AP

Ireland then lost three quick wickets to Panyangara, including that of hard-hitting Kevin O'Brien (17), before their last-gasp victory.

Zimbabwe earlier owed their total to a solid 46-ball 59 by Brendan Taylor. The Zimbabwe skipper hit six boundaries and two towering sixes, while Elton Chigumbura made 22 and Hamilton Masakadza scored 21.

But spinners George Dockrell (2-18) and debutant Andy McBrine (2-26) restricted Zimbabwe to 163-5 in their 20 overs.

The Group B defeat has put Zimbabwe in a tight corner as only one team will go on from each of the two Groups into the Super-10 stage.

Hosts Bangladesh beat Afghanistan and debutant Nepal downed Hong Kong in Group A matches on the opening day of the World Twenty20 on Sunday.

The two top teams from each Group will join the top eight seeds in the Super-10 stage, starting from March 21.

The final is on April 6 in Dhaka.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

‘Toughest month I’ve ever experienced’

Ben Tudhope in action for Australia. Source: KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP

AUSTRALIAN Paralympic chiefs admit their winter team failed in its goal of winning a gold medal in Sochi but say two bronze medals felt just as good after athletes and officials endured the toughest campaign they can remember.

Australia finished 19th on the medal table and only just reached their expected pass mark of claiming 2-5 medals.

It was more medals than Switzerland, The Netherlands and New Zealand, but still behind Great Britain (six), Belarus (three), Norway and Sweden (four), and not even in the same ballpark as host nation Russia (80).

But after the heavy emotional and physical toll the team endured in the lead up to the Games, then the mounting pressure they sweated under throughout, chief executive Jason Hellwig and chef de mission Chris Nunn said they would return home a proud and happy team.

The emotional toll started with the death of their snowboarding teammate Matthew Robinson after a race crash in Spain just a month before the Games.

It continued when flagbearer Cameron Rahles-Rahbula crashed out during training two days before the opening ceremony in Sochi, and when Melissa Perrine was disqualified from a near certain medal for using illegal equipment.

There were more crashes and mistakes in competition, then snowboarder Joany Badenhorst dislocated her knee in the warm-up of her one and only event and was taken to hospital.

"The 72 hours before Toby (Kane) won his bronze medal were the toughest 72 hours I've seen a team go through as the pressure builds," Hellwig said. "On top of I think, the toughest month I've ever seen a team go through.

"We came in under the most difficult circumstances I've ever seen a team come into a major Games to, we made a blue as a team with Mel when she was in gold medal contention and we had some things that didn't go our way.

"But that team stayed together and everyone kept doing their jobs, they found a way to keep smiling and stay focused and then that result came and it was the most wonderful release.

"The one thing we wanted to achieve was a gold medal and we didn't, so that's disappointing.

"Two medals is the bottom end of our range, we wanted to win 2-5, but they were two of the most rewarding medals I've been involved in."

Australian flagbearer Ben Tudhope was the shining light of our Paralympic campaign. Source: Getty Images

Kane and Gallagher won the medals, but the ray of sunshine the team so desperately needed came in the form of a 14-year-old snowboarder with cerebral palsy named Ben Tudhope.

Tudhope's top-10 finish in a 33-man field was as good as a gold medal and he was a perfect choice to carry the Australian flag in Sunday night's closing ceremony.

But the revelation of Tudhope aside, Hellwig does not hide from the fact that based on pre-Games expectations and potential, the team didn't deliver as hoped.

He still believes the team returned great "value for money" for government investment, but said he would continue lobbying for more funding - as tough as that might be - after a $200,000 shortfall in getting the team to Sochi.

"We don't have a God-given right to a cent from anybody, we've got to go and earn it by the way we perform, the way we conduct our business and the way our athletes conduct themselves," he said.

"Australians expect their teams to go well and have some success and we don't shirk that responsibility."

That's why planning for South Korea in 2018 started six months ago when the team hired its first ever high performance manager Pim Berkhout from The Netherlands.

With the retirement of Kane and Rahles-Rahbula and uncertainty surrounding Mitch Gourley's skiing future, Berkhout has been charged with finding a way of attracting new athletes to the program and fast-tracking their development.

He will consider targeting athletes from wheelchair summer sports and expanding the winter program into more than just alpine skiing.

"We planned for Korea months ago, he's (Berkhout) been here to observe and see where the gaps are and opportunities exist," Nunn said.

"This is my seventh Games and it's the first time we've had a plan leaving the Games and not said, 'Let's talk about this when we get home.'"

In the very least, Nunn expects interest to boom in the para-snowboarding program after Tudhope announced his arrival as a star of the future.

"Every time a new sport turns up at a Paralympic Games, the following four years it goes nuts," Nunn said.

"It is a sexy sport that's different to alpine, there's music blaring, these guys are different to the alpine guys, and kids are going to be attracted to it.

"We see the number of kids who are snowboarding in Australia, all we've got to do is find a few more Bennies and we're away.

"We couldn't have a better ambassador for the sport right now. People will want to take up snowboarding because of Ben Tudhope, I know that for a fact."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Gus fish and chip shop mystery solved

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

THE great Phillip Ronald Gould fish and chip shop mystery has been solved.

The Panthers general manager and Channel Nine commentator took to Twitter on Monday to explain why he wasn't watching Penrith on TV against Melbourne Storm.

The Sunday Telegraph spotted the great man at Port Hacking Seafoods while his team was involved in a nail-biter.

Phil Gould in the commentary box with a carton of hot chips in front of him. Source: News Limited

"Fierce electrical storm caused blackout in my suburb approx 5pm Saturday," Gus tweeted.

"No TV, so I followed 5.30pm Panther game on ABC radio with great David Morrow.

"Unable to cook evening meal, approx 6.30pm wife asked me to get dinner for kids. She must be obeyed.

"Found fish shop with power to cook. Followed scores on mobile. Nail-biting.

"Thankfully power restored while I was gone. Finally got to watch Panther replay Sunday morning before flying to Gold Coast.

"Panthers were great. Hope mystery now solved."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Brooks to be tested by Burgess boys

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

HE is the most hyped rugby league rookie to emerge in years — but this Friday night little Luke Brooks will face his biggest test.

In just his fourth top grade game, the 19-year-old Wests Tigers protégé will tackle what is undoubtedly the most daunting challenge in the NRL that comes in the shape of the Burgess brothers.

Between them, big Sam, George and Luke weigh in at a combined 348kg, and no doubt the giant Rabbitohs will run out onto ANZ Stadium with the intention of making sure the 85kg playmaker never forgets his first Friday night NRL game that will be televised live on Channel Nine.

Asked if he expects Brooks to be targeted by the Rabbitohs' big men, Tigers coach Mick Potter said last night: "You will have to speak to Michael Maguire but you'd assume they will send some traffic at him".

The Burgess brothers with mother Julie after a game against West Tigers at Allianz Stadium last year. Source: News Limited

But while careful not to put too much pressure on his young gun, Potter is confident Brooks has the right attitude to handle all the attention that is coming his way.

On and off the field.

"You get what you see with him," Potter said.

"He doesn't say much. He seems quite grounded.

"He has a good family behind him which is a steadying influence."

Already Brooks is being compared to the game's greatest ever player Andrew Johns and even rugby league Immortal Wally Lewis was blown away by the similarities when he watched Brooks star in the Tigers' win over the Titans on the Gold Coast last Sunday.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Brooks was man of the match in his debut at the end of last season against St George Illawarra but was given a reality check in round one when he fronted up to the Dragons for the second time and missed 10 tackles in the 44-24 defeat.

But he bounced back against the Titans with a performance that had everyone believing that a very special talent has arrived at the Tigers.

As for the comparisons with Johns, Potter said he just hopes everyone gives the kid time to become his own man.

Brooks races through to touch the ball down in-goal after a kick from James Tedesco. Source: News Corp Australia

"He is progressing, we just need to be patient," Potter said.

"Everyone is mentioning other people's names.

"I'd rather him just be Luke Brooks and not compare him to anyone else.

"Just let him be his own player.

"He is three games into his NRL career.

"It is a different time for him compared to other players in the past.

"I don't think it is right comparing.

"It is not the same era, it is not the same defence, it is not the same attack.

Brooks (R) is congratulated by Braith Anasta after scoring against the Titans. Source: Getty Images

"I suppose what hasn't changed is the size of the field."

But the size of the players certainly has.

"That's right," Potter added, "and the athleticism of the guys has changed which makes it that much harder for the player's to cope.

"He has a lot more to come at him and he has to handle it the best way he can.

"I thought he had a real good response (after the round one loss to the Dragons) in round two.

"Everyone is after improvement all the time and I think he showed that (against the Gold Coast).

"This will be another challenge against Souths.

"It's a hard position to play week in, week out, but I think he quite enjoys the challenge."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Malthouse: ‘Dismal’ final quarter

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

CARLTON coach Mick Malthouse last night blamed the club's "dismal" last-quarter fade-out on the Blues' interrupted summer training program.

Malthouse had already lessened expectations during the week when he spoke of the 22 players who underwent some form of surgery during the off-season.

FULL MATCH REPORT

ANOTHER FOUNDATION CLUB CRASHES

IS KREUZER AT THE CROSSROADS?

Mick Malthouse gestures to his players. Pic by Colleen Petch. Source: News Corp Australia

But while he said every player who played in last night's 33-point loss to Port Adelaide had played at least one practice game, he admitted the Blues weren't ready.

"The players who have had interrupted pre-seasons really did struggle in the last quarter and there were some good fightbacks, but the last quarter was pretty dismal,'' he said.

"We went into the game confident we could match them in certain areas, but there is no question they blew us away totally in the last quarter.

"Statistics show it and the scoreboard shows it. They dominated the last quarter. We have just got to get some time into some of our blokes who haven't had the lead-up some other clubs have had.

"We had a number of players with (limited preparation) in the pre-season and in today's football it takes match after match to get that fitness."

Dale Thomas and Matthew Kreuzer show their disappointment Pic by Colleen Petch. Source: News Corp Australia

He defended Matthew Kreuzer, who was well beaten when the excellent Robert Warnock went out of the ruck.

"Kreuz is a ruckman and we want to make him a forward/ruckman and it's up to him to grab that opportunity. He got jumped over at the end and he knows that, but he couldn't run before Christmas, and Matthew has a fantastic heart, so the more he plays the better he will get. He has to get games into him."

Malthouse refused to discuss where the loss left his premiership clock, after the veteran coach claimed the Blues were approaching the prized 11-1 window.

"Let's not worry about Round 22, let's worry about Round 2. It's not a matter of whether you are in a window or not, it's winning enough games of football. There will be nine winners and nine losers in Round 1."

He would not discuss Andrew Walker's report for slinging Angus Monfries into the boundary line fence.

The loss now pits the Blues against archrivals Richmond in a crunch game in a fortnight, with the loser falling to 0-2.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Odom quits Spain after injury

Lamar Odom, left, in action for Laboral Kutxa. Picture: Rafa Rivas/AFP Source: RAFA RIVAS / AFP

EX-NBA star Lamar Odom's foray into European basketball has been cut short due to a back injury, his Spanish club has said.

Laboral Kutxa Baskonia said Odom's personal doctors in New York have ruled him unfit to play for two months, meaning "his present contract with the club has finished''.

"The club hopes that the recovery process will go well and leaves open the possibility of resuming a future commitment to the player depending on the evolution of his injury,'' the statement added.

Odom joined the Spanish side last month on a two-month deal with an option to extend it for the remainder of the season.

The star has also endured a troubled time off the court as he was sentenced in December to three years probation and three months of treatment for alcohol abuse for driving under the influence and split from reality TV star wife Khloe Kardashian.

The Spanish club, based in the northern city of Vitoria, said the 34-year-old power forward was suffering from lumbar radiculitis, a spine injury that causes severe lower back pain.

Odom played a total of just 23 minutes in two games for the Spanish side, scoring just two points.

He thanked his Spanish fans for their support in an audio message posted on the club's website.

"This is something that is beyond my control. This is beyond anyone's control,'' he added.

"It's up to me as a responsible athlete to, if I'm injured, to take care of it. I think everything happens for a reason.

"I look forward to getting back on court as soon as possible. I want to treat this injury and be aggressive and treat it and get it done,'' he said.

Odom has played more than 1,000 games over a 14-year career in the NBA, but has been a free agent since the end of last season after being released by the Los Angeles Clippers.

He played a key role on the Los Angeles Lakers side that won back-to-back NBA titles in 2009 and 2010, but has struggled to hold down a roster spot since leaving the Lakers the following year.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Ricciardo stripped of podium finish

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

DANIEL Ricciardo was last night stripped of becoming the first Australian to score a podium at the Australian Grand Prix with FIA stewards disqualifying him from the race in a midnight bombshell.

In an ugly aftermath to the best performance by an Australian at either Melbourne or former GP venue Adelaide, the nation's new sensation was a shattered man after learning his heroic and historic drive would be stricken from the record books.

FIA officials fronted the media soon before midnight and told them the new Red Bull Racing driver had been disqualified from the season-opening race for a fuel flow breach that saw the Australian exceed regulations.

HOW THE STEWARDS REACHED THEIR DECISION

Following a four-hour meeting prompted by claims the new V6 engine in the RB10 guzzled more than the 100kg/h allowed under the new Formula One rules, Ricciardo was sent from the penthouse to the outhouse with stewards dismissing a defence from Red Bull heavyweights Christian Horner and Adrian Newey.

Horner was extremely disappointed with the outcome and said the team would appeal the disqualification.

A confident Horner says they have a defendable case and believes they've been compliant to the rules. The timing of the appeal was not immediately known.

Red Bull boss Christian Horner chats with Daniel Ricciardo in pitlane late last night as the situation deteriorates with the team found guilty of exceeding fuel regulations. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

The bombshell was dropped after Ricciardo became the Melbourne Messiah when he defied history by holding off a fast-finishing Kevin Magnussen.

The F1 paddock was sent into a frenzy about 8.30pm when an FIA official reported the team had breached official fuel flow regulations.

FIA technical delegate Jo Bauer said Ricciardo's RB10 had "exceeded consistently the maximum allowed fuel flow of 100kg/h".

"As this is not in compliance with Article 5.1.4 of the 2014 Formula One Technical Regulations, I am referring this matter to the stewards for their consideration."

Cars are not allowed to consumed more than 100kg's of fuel an hour under new rules introduced this year with the introduction of the 1.6 litre V6 turbo engine.

Daniel Ricciardo realises he's in for a restless night after being disqualified. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

Ricciardo left the track about 11pm before knowing his fate and said he was proud of his effort regardless of the ruling after only Nico Rosberg and his red-hot Mercedes stopped Ricciardo from winning.

Regardless of the disqualification, Ricciardo's performance has assured his future in the sport.

The home crowd went wild as Ricciardo, 24, took his runner's up trophy following a stunning start the 2014 season, the roar reducing the winner's reception to a mere cheer.

Ricciardo is now our man, and he proved why he was given a seat next to world champion Sebastian Vettel in the all-conquering Red Bull Racing team.

"Wow…'' Ricciardo said.

"To be the first Aussie on the Aussie podium. I am just speechless. I'm tripping balls. This has been a remarkable turn around by the team from a few weeks ago and I am lost for words.''

Ricciardo was swamped on the line but blasted past Mercedes big gun and race favourite with a turn one lunge to steal second place.

In a difficult race with several struggling to survive with the new machinery, Riccardo hopelessly chased the flawless Rosberg, who proved uncatchable in his superior machinery after teammate Hamilton and Vettel bombed out.

Daniel Ricciardo celebrates with gusto his podium finish. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

GALLERY: BEST PICS FROM GP SUNDAY AT ALBERT PARK

SEB'S SUZIE NOT HIS FAVOURITE GIRL ON GP CIRCUIT

V8s: McLAUGHLIN CLAIMS HISTORIC WIN FOR VOLVO

Ricciardo was forced to show all his fight, determination and skill in the closing stages of the race as McLaren rookie Magnussen attacked.

His effort was made even grander given his team was predicted to struggle following a horror testing season in the new V6 turbo.

"If l look back to where we were three weeks ago it exceeds my expectations definitely," he said.

"We didn't have confidence we would see a checkered flag let alone a podium. The support has been crazy and being the only Aussie on the grid and the result has been more than I could have been expected.''

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Even winner Rosberg acknowledged Ricciardo's stellar home race after beating him by almost 25 seconds.

"Daniel got a little more support than us but that was expected,'' Rosberg said.

"We all worked hard over the winter and it is amazing to have such a good Silver Arrow. They have done a remarkable job. I had a great start and after that the car was just really quick today. We had a really good engine and no problem with fuel consumption. It all worked perfectly.''

There was drama even before the start light ushered in the new area of Formula One with a stalled Marrussia forcing an aborted start on the formation lap.

With the flag set to drop on the Australian Grand Prix, Jules Bianchi forced a yellow to drop as he sat helpless on the grid.

The Brit joined his teammate Jules Bianchi in the pitlane after the French man earlier fell victim to the same problem.

Daniel Ricciardo powers his way around the Albert Park circuit. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Getty Images

Lotus driver Romain Grosjean further reduced the grid after being slapped with a pit-lane penalty for a pre-race blue.

Rosberg blasted his way to the front when the flag finally dropped with a lightening start rocketing him past Ricciardo and Lewis Hamilton.

Ricciardo recovered from a sluggish start to steal second place from Hamilton.

The carnage began behind instantly with Kamui Kobayashi locking up and taking out new Williams driver and Ferrari reject Felipe Massa.

Caterham driver Kamui Kobayashi runs off the track after a collision with Williams driver Felipe Massa. Source: AP

The drama continued when race favourite Hamilton was ordered to retire when his Mercedes dropped a cylinder.

"As soon as I left the line I had a lot less power. I didn't understand it and people came past. They asked me to come in and I think it was one of the cylinders that was not firing.''

Another bombshell was unleashed when reigning World Champion Sebastian Vettel became another high-profile causality of the all-new machinery.

Vettel's race was over on lap five.

"Second formation lap we lost power,'' Vettel said.

"We don't know why yet. It is going to be a long season. All of us expected cars to beach but unfortunately it was us.'

SEE HOW RACE DAY UNFOLDED IN OUR LIVE BLOG BELOW

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More