Singo lures O’Keeffe back to radio

Kerry O'Keefe, here with former co-commentators Jim Maxwell and Danny Morrison, will return to the airwaves with 2GB. Source: News Limited

LESS than six months after quitting the ABC, popular broadcaster Kerry O'Keeffe is making a comeback on commercial radio.

The cricket commentator with the crazy laugh and huge cult following has agreed to join Radio 2GB.

O'Keeffe's manager James Erskine agreed to terms with 2GB boss Russell Tate following talks that were initiated by the Skull's biggest fan, John Singleton.

"At my age you can't wait too long to make a comeback," said O'Keeffe, in a text message to confirm his return to radio.

The former NSW and Test leg-spinner quit the ABC after last summer's Ashes series, much to the disappointment of his fans.

But 2GB was quick to step in.

"I have always had a huge rap on Kerry and so does everyone I know," Tate said.

"I think he's a talent beyond his cricket commentary that was so popular on the ABC.

"He's very bright and a very funny man."

Tate and his programming staff will have talks with O'Keeffe in the next fortnight to define his role at the station.

"Sport is his heritage but he's talented and very different in other areas," Tate said.

"In the next couple of weeks we will get together to finalise some program concepts."

It's expected O'Keeffe will become the face of 2GB's weekend summer of sport program among other duties.

His signing should not affect the future of other 2GB broadcasters.

The Big Marn Darryl Brohman is off contract at the end of the football season but Tate is about to open negotiations for a new deal.

Bronte Halligan who has been chosen to play water polo for Australia, with her father former NRL goal kicking great Daryl Halligan at Manly Swim Centre, Sydney. Pic Brett Costello Source: News Limited

WATER POLO WINS BATTLE FOR BRONTE'S HEART

If Australia is to win gold in women's water polo at the Rio or Tokyo Olympics the Aussie Stingers may just be thankful for the choices made by rising star Bronte Halligan.

Bronte, the 18-year-old daughter of former Kiwi and Canterbury Bulldogs sharpshooter Daryl Halligan, had to make the choice a few years ago between surf life saving, a sport where her older sister Devon is a champion ironwoman, or water polo.

The pool won out and Bronte had to make the next big decision to follow her father and sister in representing New Zealand or declare her allegiance to Australia.

Thankfully for the Aussie Stingers, Halligan chose Australia and this week she was named to make her debut for the senior Australian team at the prestigious FINA World League finals in Shanghai next month.

"I wasn't as good in the surf and I did have a good base of swimming and netball so mum and dad just chucked me in the water polo pool and I loved it," Halligan said.

But while the schoolgirl at Stella Maris in Manly says her dad gives her plenty of helpful tips on what it takes to be a professional athlete, she doesn't think he'd cut it in the water.

"I was quite young when dad finished so I don't have many memories of him playing but I look up to him a lot. He has given me a lot of advice, pushing me through and helping me become the best athlete I can. It's really helpful having him there.

"He understands the rules of water polo and he likes the aggressiveness of it. He calls it footy in the water but I don't think he'd be too good at it himself."

Halligan's selection continues the strong connection between water polo and rugby league with Blocker Roach's son Aidan, a London Olympian, set to represent Australia in the corresponding men's World League finals this year.

The Socceroos outrated the NRL on Monday night. Source: Getty Images

SOCCEROOS CLAIM THE RATINGS BY A SHORT HALF-HEADER

Soccer has scored another significant victory over the NRL in head to head television ratings.

Last Monday night, the Socceroos out-rated the Cronulla v South Sydney match on Fox Sports. It was close 194,000 to 192,000.

State of Origin obviously effected the NRL audience for a game that was missing Greg Inglis, Paul Gallen and three other rep players.

Monday night footy normally attracts an audience of around the 250,000 mark.

NO BREATHING IRE FROM PRICE

Steve Price is a good man who would never criticise the Dragons for over his dismissal.

I chased him for an interview last week but got the following text message.

"Hey Buzz, appreciate your message, hope u can understand that at this time, I'm just focusing on spending quality time with my family after a tough few weeks. Regards SP."

STICKY FINE WITH PROCTOR BACKFLIP

It's true that Ricky Stuart actually shook hands with Storm front-rower Kevin Proctor to confirm a four-year deal with the Raiders last Monday in Melbourne.

Next morning, after a sleepless night, Proctor rang the Raiders coach to say he had changed his mind.

Stuart sportingly accepted the backflip, saying he didn't want a player who wasn't 100 per cent committed to his club.

Glenn Stewart has already signed with the Rabbitohs. Are Steve Matai and Anthony Watmough also on the way out the door? Source: News Limited

SEA EAGLES DUO MAY FLY OFF IN DISGUST

Anthony Watmough is not the only big name player at Manly thinking about quitting over the shabby treatment of Glenn Stewart.

We're hearing centre Steve Matai is in the same boat. Don't be surprised to see Watmough at Parramatta and Matai at the Warriors.

BLUES BEAMED DIRECT TO BRAZIL

many of Australia's Socceroos are keen rugby league fans, including the great Timmy Cahill. They will all be watching the return State of Origin game at ANZ Stadium on June 19 because the match is being shown live in Brazil on the Direct TV network. Amazingly, Rabs, Gus and co will broadcast into 90 countries.

SOCCEROOS ARE MASSIVE NEWS

The Socceroos were the first team to arrive in Brazil and that has set off a frenzy. Even an open training session is big news.

The local TV station in Vitoria went live to air during the training and everyone from the Governor to the local mayor wants to be part of the show.

When the Socceroos had a gentle stroll to walk off some jet lag, 40 local media turned up as word spread.

SAINT

THE 24 hours of spectacular NSW footy dominance with the Blues beating Qld in Origin and the Swans flogging Geelong in the AFL.

Screen gab of Paul Gallen being tackled by Josh Papalii Source: Supplied

SINNER

THE Josh Papalii dog shot on Paul Gallen in Origin. Crash-tackling a player without the ball and unexpectedly from behind creates whiplash and neck injuries. It's a coward tackle that needs to be outlawed.

FENECH, LEWIS BESTIES NO MORE

THERE was no sign of trainer Johnny Lewis at Jeff Fenech's 50th's birthday party on Wednesday night, just as there was no sign of Fenech at Lewis's 70th birthday party last month. It's the official proof that one of the tightest partnerships in Australian sport has been broken beyond repair.

SHOOSH

WHO were the two Origin players from the same club who don't like each other and didn't shake hands after the game.

BENNETT FREE TO ROAM

DESPITE what Knights CEO Matt Gidley is saying, supercoach Wayne Bennett is definitely a free agent once Hunter Sports Group hands the Knights over to new owners.

COP THAT GORDY

SPARE a thought for outspoken Maroons legend Gorden Tallis, who was looking for somewhere to hide after losing Origin. Instead he found himself seated smack bang in the middle of the NSW team players and coaching staff on the flight from Brisbane to Sydney. And didn't they rub it in.

SOUTHERN RETREATS

RETIRED footy players are taking over the south coast of NSW. Mick Cronin owns a pub in Gerringong and former salary cap boss Ian Schubert has just purchased the Bomaderry Hotel. The great Ronny Coote has the McDonald's franchise in Nowra and his mate George Piggins a farm nearby.

Tim Cahill sent his thanks to Phil Hillyard for this shot. Source: News Corp Australia

CREDIT WHERE IT'S DUE

TIMMY Cahill knows a great picture when he sees one. The veteran Socceroos star was straight on the email to our man Phil Hillyard the day after he took this sensational shot at ANZ Stadium. "Top man, Phil, really appreciate that shot, definitely caught a magic moment for me. Quality shot."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Cheika praises Tahs after brutal win

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TATAFU Polota-Nau will have to make an emergency trip to the dentist after having his front teeth knocked out, Dave Dennis sustained a cut so bad that his leg tissue was exposed, and numerous Waratahs players required stitches after their brutal victory over the Chiefs.

The remarkable efforts of the Waratahs in New Plymouth was summed up by key players battling through immense pain and injury, none more so than captain Dennis who scored the decisive try with seven minutes remaining despite team staff wanting him to come off the field after a stray boot sliced open his thigh.

"He's got the worst cut I've ever seen, you can see the muscles and things, it is just horrific," said NSW coach Michael Cheika, who recoiled on the sideline when Dennis showed him the gash after the match.

MATCH CENTRE: Full scores, stats and video highlights

"He didn't want to come off, and then he raced away to score a try.

"He is developing into a very good captain, leads by example, he's starting to understand what it is to be a leader, and he showed that tonight.

"I'd say Dave is going to need to go to hospital.

"Tatafu had two front teeth knocked out completely, from the first 10 minutes.

"One is half broken, the other one is out completely, in his mouthguard.

"He was in pain because that nerve is there, and he played the whole game. That's what it's about."

VIDEO: Watch all the highlights from a see-sawing encounter

Israel Folau on the charge for the Waratahs against the Chiefs at Yarrow Stadium. Source: Getty Images

Fighting beyond the pain threshold, NSW finally broke a three-year hoodoo with their first win in New Zealand since 2010, and it could not have been more monumental, against the back-to-back defending champions the Chiefs.

Two tries in the final seven minutes sealed the deal for the Tahs, who remain in the top two of the Super Rugby competition and will be challenging the Sharks for first place on the ladder when play resumes after the June Test break.

"We've tried to become a team that is getting known for hard work, probably the antithesis of maybe what we were known for before," Cheika said.

"To come up against a team like them, for us it was almost like a final around hard work, not as much football.

"There is a lot of satisfaction there, I am very proud, that's for sure, because it was a really hard-working performance, and there are guys in a lot of pain.

"They were comfortable playing in a discomfort-zone, which is a good sign for us.

"But there's still so much for us to do yet.

"The top two is decided in the last round, you can slip from anywhere, it's just so tight.

"I suppose the more rounds where you put other teams behind you, you're still a chance.

"We're in there, we've got a chance for it, we've got three big games coming, two against competitors for the top six, and one against our old enemy away from home.

"So it's going to be a great three weeks when we get back."

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Israel Folau scored his customary opening try of the game, making him the new Waratahs' record-holder for most individual tries in one season, passing Peter Hewat's mark of 10 set in 2005.

It took only 15 minutes for Folau to score his 11th try in 10 games this season.

Folau had declared earlier in the week that breaking the record against the defending champions in their backyard would be the "perfect scenario" and as he has for most of his football career, the fullback delivered.

And his teammates delivered their biggest win of 2014 at the picturesque Yarrow Stadium, flanked by a snowy-topped Mount Taranaki.

The Chiefs had clawed back from 13-3 down at half-time to lead 17-16 with less than a quarter of the match remaining.

But a late try from Dennis, who shoved off a defender and raced 20 metres to score, gave NSW a 26-17 buffer.

Bernard Foley capped off a fine, composed display with a final-minute try and sideline conversion to finish with six goals from six attempts and a personal haul of 20 points.

NSW staved off near disaster when, having dominated the game, they allowed the Chiefs to take the lead in the 63rd minute.

Super-sub Bundee Aki scored two tries in seven minutes, moments after entering the field in the second half, with Aaron Cruden's second sideline conversion giving the Chiefs the lead for the first time in the game, with just 16 minutes remaining.

Chiefs prop Ben Tameifuna runs at Waratahs' Paddy Ryan. Source: Getty Images

It took the Chiefs 55 minutes to score their first try, and it was not without controversy.

Seconds after taking the field off the bench, centre Aki swooped on an Cruden grubber into the in-goal.

While Aki appeared to have been off-side and dived on the ball, it did not look as though he had any control. Television match official Ben Skeen ruled that Aki had forced downward pressure on the ball before it popped out from under his torso, pulling the Chiefs back into the contest.

Kurtley Beale nailed a 45-metre penalty goal soon after to push the Tahs ahead 16-10, but following a Chiefs break upfield Aki was in position to pounce on another grubber into the corner in the 63rd minute.

The Tahs regained their lead in the 69th when a Chiefs ruck infringement allowed Foley to kick another penalty goal, making it 19-17.

NSW had not won a game in New Zealand since May 2010 — coincidentally against the Chiefs — and will take enormous confidence into the three-week break.

A sublime performance from Nick Phipps and Adam Ashley-Cooper, and a robust display from prop Benn Robinson highlighted the Tahs' efforts.

Waratahs skipper Dave Dennis is congratulated on his try by teammates Stephen Hoiles and Nick Phipps. Source: Getty Images

The 10-point lead at half-time came via plenty of starch in defence which forced numerous handling errors and turnovers from the Chiefs.

The reigning premiers looked a mere shell of the fine-tuned attacking machine that has torn most defences to shreds over the past two seasons, with NSW's rushing defence and thumping tackles rattling the home side.

It was as physical as expected, with flanker Michael Hooper on the receiving end of the biggest of the season from Chiefs giant Ben Tameifuna, and was lucky to escape without a serious rib injury, while Polota-Nau produced a number of bellringers.

Alofa Alofa was denied the first try of the game after crossing in the corner, when replays showed Folau had held the leg of Chiefs centre Andrew Horrell, allowing Nick Phipps to break clear and feed his winger.

But Folau soon made up for his foul by crossing in the opposite corner in the 15th minute, benefiting from a break by Ashley-Cooper.

NSW WARATAHS 33 (Dave Dennis, Israel Folau, Bernard Foley tries Foley 3 cons Foley 3, Kurtley Beale pens) bt CHIEFS 17 (Bundee Aki 2 tries Aaron Cruden 2 cons pen) at Yarrow Stadium. Referee: Chris Pollock. Crowd: 10,740.

Relive all the Chiefs v Waratahs action in our match blog below.

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George Burgess: ‘They thought I should leave NRL to Sam’

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GEORGE Burgess is only here because of his brother.

Remember thinking that? Back four years when big Sammy was taking the NRL by storm and, seemingly to appease him, Souths shipped the first of three little siblings across the pond for company.

And in unison, the league world cooed.

Thinking it wonderful a young Burgess might get himself a Bunnies tracksuit. Maybe some minutes in NSW Cup. Hell, give them all bit parts in the next Russell Crowe flick if it keeps the marquee Englishman happy.

"And I remember those perceptions, yeah,'' George grins, sitting outside Coogee surf club.

Sam, Luke and George Burgess during warm up for South Sydney training. Source: News Corp Australia

"Even back in England, when my signing was announced, plenty said I wouldn't do any good. Thought I should stay home, leave the NRL to my brother. But it's always been my goal to prove them wrong."

Call it the Ballad of Gorgeous George Burgess.

The driving force behind these 120kg of Yorkshire muscle who, for as long as anyone can remember, has not only been the younger Burgess, but the worst Burgess. See, while Slammin' Sam was a footballing colossus from the moment he first lifted a footy, young George took longer. Developed later.

"Still for years," he shrugs, "everyone compared me to Sam."

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And you can guess what happened then, right?

"Growing up, I always told myself, 'Well, Sam, he's just your brother','' the 22-year-old continues.

"I thought that if he could do something, so could I.

"Even now, that remains my mindset. I believe I can achieve what Sam has ... even more."

George Burgess is ready to tackle preconceptions he can't stand up to Sam. Source: News Corp Australia

And here, folks, is that moment in a yarn where you pause momentarily to digest what was just said. Specifically, that Slammin' Sammy Burgess — he of the headlines, the X-Factor girlfriends and epic World Cup performances — may not finish up the best Burgess brother to play Down Under.

Indeed, with the 25-year-old switching to English rugby from 2015, George suddenly looms as not only the new figurehead of Burgess Inc, but one of the true heavyweight enforcers of the NRL.

STATS EXPOSE TACKLE CRACKDOWN AS A FARCE

According to Fox Sports Statistics, George has stormed past big brother over the past month. Since round 8, the worst Burgess has averaged a staggering 177m per game — up 31m on Sam — while also making twice the tackle busts (18) and linebreaks (2).

In the same period, he has also earned eight Dally M points, while conceding fewer penalties and making fewer errors than Sam.

Sam Burgess's switch to rugby is a loss for South Sydney, the NRL — and his brothers. Source: News Corp Australia

It is a remarkable rise for the fella who, only last year, was the Dally M Rookie. A footballer who, far from just boasting the most hyped selfie in league history, is now the scalp every enforcer worth his neck tattoo is gunning for.

Unthinkable at the start of the year, taking on Burgess Inc is quickly becoming a sports fad to rival Tae Bo or hula hoops. Manly, Wests Tigers, even Gold Coast, made clear their intentions to bring down the brothers Grimm.

"But I don't read into that,'' George shrugs of the target on his chest.

"Clubs don't try to single out one or two players. That's just media talk."

George Burgess says he's ready to step out of big brother Sam's shadow. Source: News Corp Australia

But George, it isn't. And you know it.

"I don't think they're targeting us individually,'' he says.

"Well, not really". So not really or not at all? "Ah,'' he laughs, "I dunno."

Which in translation means this: you know they're targeting us and I know they're targeting us.

But if you think a rugby league enforcer is going to whinge, whine or even give the slightest indication he gives a red fire truck — pal, you're kidding yourself. What George will talk about, however, is the rugby defection of big brother Sam. A move, he concedes, which hurt him.

"Oh, for sure,'' he says. "Because that bond we have as brothers — especially after Dad passed — we probably thought we'd play together forever.

The tight-knit Burgess brothers with mum Julie. Source: News Limited

"I remember we were still in England, just after the World Cup, when Sam told me he was going.

"I always knew rugby was his goal and, while it would've been nice to play together forever, we are still four individuals."

And this, remember, is the Ballad of Gorgeous George. The youngster who, back in 2010, was watching on from England while big brother, aged only 21, tore the Aussies apart.

"And his efforts weren't just an inspiration for me, but all English players,'' George says.

"Sam broke down the perception about NRL footy being too hard for younger Pommies. He proved it's not only about the Aussies. That we don't have to stay home. I'm only here because of my brother."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Boomers score big win over China

Boomer Mark Worthington in action against China on Saturday night. Source: Paul Kane / Getty Images

WEST Australian Mark Worthington took another significant step in sealing his place in Australia's squad for September's World Cup after leading the Boomers to an 85-64 win at Challenge Stadium on Saturday night.

The dual Olympian scored 11 of his team-high 14 points in the first half and provided plenty of trademark hustle to prove his importance to the side and help establish a 2-0 lead in the Sino-Australia Challenge.

In a series featuring an understrength Boomers squad due to commitments in other leagues, Worthington - who turns 31 next week - looks to have secured his place on the flight to Spain.

Luke Nevill again showed off his outside touch and punctuated the night with two huge dunks to finish with 12 points, while Brock Motum added 10 and six rebounds in limited court time.

The match almost descended into farce just minutes from the end when China coach Gong Luming refused to leave the arena after being ejected for a second technical foul.

Play was held up for several minutes as officials implored Luming to leave, but the game's final 2:46 eventually resumed despite the coach remaining courtside.

Australia coach Andrej Lemanis refused to comment on the behaviour of his counterpart ahead of the series shifting to China this week for the remaining two games.

"It was good for our guys to go through that experience and have to deal with that and not react emotionally," Lemanis said.

"In China, we're going to have the same sort of challenge put in front of us.

"I'll concentrate on my group. China will do what China does."

When asked if he would leave the arena if ejected in China, Lemanis replied: "I play by the rules, so yeah, absolutely."

The Boomers' local contingent made its presence felt early, with former Wildcat Luke Nevill and Bunbury duo Worthington and Cam Gliddon combining for the side's first five baskets.

The home side simply suffocated China defensively, with a full-court press triggering four first-quarter turnovers and preventing any sort of offensive rhythm.

The most Lemanis had to exert himself in the first half was to walk on the court to pick up point guard Hugh Greenwood's displaced headband during play.

After operating at an electric 64 per cent clip in the first half of Thursday's game, China's shooters went cold in the corresponding half last night, registering just 26 per cent.

To make matters worse, the side was unable to get practice shots up at half time because the notoriously fickle Challenge Stadium baskets were being repaired.

Things briefly became heated when Xu Zhong-Hao caught Tom Jervis with an elbow midcourt, resulting in a baffling unsportsmanlike foul for the Wildcats centre after shoving in retaliation.

Tempers flared at regular intervals afterward, but the Boomers were never seriously threatened where it counted – on the scoreboard – as they backed up Thursday's 97-95 win.

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Cocky roaches shoot from the lip

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BRENT Tate has cruelly been told to harden up after his heartfelt admission of being frightened when he was cartwheeled into the turf during Origin One.

Former NSW enforcer Steve Roach delivered the outrageous comments, while his partner in crime Benny Elias nominated the QRL as Australia's biggest whingers.

Roach claimed a "little headbutt" was more dangerous than flipping a player at full speed and the Tate incident was "one of those things that happens in rugby league".

Josh Reynolds and Beau Scott are free to play in Origin two after this tackle on Brent Tate. Source: Getty Images

State of Origin II promises to be nasty after the provocative statements.

The Blues took only 30 minutes after their deserved Origin I victory before they began whingeing about the referees and now they are even trying to have Shayne Hayne sacked for Origin II.

New South Wales are apparently outraged that Queensland dared to protest about Josh Reynolds escaping suspension for his lifting tackle on Tate, who has a long history of neck injuries and is one of the great servants of the code.

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Only weeks after Alex McKinnon's tragic spine injury, rugby league stakeholders are still failing to grasp the fact that dangerous throws must be eradicated before another serious incident.

"I saw where Tatey came out saying he had never been in a more frightening place or whatever. Please," Roach says in today's The Daily Telegraph.

"Yes, he was put in an awkward position. But in no way was it intentional, anyone could see that. In fact, I'd go as far as to say there were a lot more dangerous things in that game.

"Some of the stuff around the ruck, knees, elbows, little headbutts ... but this is a game of Origin football, it's supposed to be hard.

Josh Reynolds' tackle on Brent Tate is placed on report. Source: News Corp Australia

"Why try to rub young Josh Reynolds out of the next game for something that was quite obviously one of those things that happens in rugby league?''

Elias claimed the Queensland Rugby League's measured reaction to the bizarre downgrading of Reynolds dangerous throw, was embarrassing.

"It's like these Queenslanders, they just don't know how to be graceful in defeat," Elias said. "I've been around rugby league, around sport, a long, long time now and I've never known anyone to whinge in defeat quite like the QRL. It's embarrassing.

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"Truly, there is no one worse in Australian sport.''

Queensland State of Origin enforcer Greg Dowling blasted Elias for being a persistent whinger himself.

"Benny should just shut up," Dowling said. "He whinges every year, usually about Origin eligibility or something.

"NSW are the ones who started the eligibility nonsense. They started all the drama.''

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Colgan likes the look of Sancerre

Vin Colgan rides Sancerre to a win at Ipswich. Source: Supplied

VIN Colgan has won the New Zealand Derby five times, so there's not many riders as well equipped to identify a Classic winner and he thinks Sancerre fits the bill for Saturday's Queensland Oaks at Eagle Farm.

Colgan, who still rates Zonda as the best of his Derby winners, moved to Queensland last September, but in a three-month return to New Zealand earlier this year managed to pick off another Group 1 with Silent Achiever at Ellerslie.

He has returned in time for the Queensland carnival and has linked with shrewd trainer Tony Pike to plot an Oaks upset with Sancerre.

"She has taken an easy route to the race, but she's very promising," Colgan said.

"She has been given a couple of easy kills, but she won easily both times against older horses.

"She's definitely on the right track and she worked super on Tuesday.

"She made big improvement from the Sunshine Coast to Ipswich. She's just thriving here in Queensland. She's dappled up and her coat is shining."

Sancerre's mum Vouvray won the Oaks 10 years ago and Colgan says that heritage will stand her in good stead today.

"It is a big step up, but it's not easy beating older horses over ground for a three-year-old filly like this girl has," he said.

"She is smart enough to be put in this situation.

"She's by (Silent Achiever's sire) O'Reilly and her mum won this race, so she's bred to run the trip and I've got no doubt she will stay all day.

"This distance will see a lot of the others out and she will be there right to the end.

"She can position up close if she wants to and she's a tremendous chance."

Pike yesterday rated Sancerre marginally in front of his other Oaks runner Rock Diva, owing to the better draw, which means the former can position up closer.

Pike, who originally prepared Sacred Falls and did all the pre-training with the dual Doncaster winner this autumn, holds a strong hand at Eagle Farm.

Sacred Star, who runs in the same colours as Sacred Falls, is a firming favourite for the QTC Cup.

The Pike-trained son of Flying Spur was an impressive trial winner at Doomben earlier this month and Tim Bell was thrilled to be given the call up to replace the injured Leith Innes today.

"I'm not sure how it came about that I got on this horse, but I'm very glad it did come about," Bell said.

"My manager just called and said 'we're on this exciting horse.'

"I haven't graced his back yet, but speaking to the trackwork riders, he's a very promising horse that could really stamp himself a top liner."

Bell has top hopes in all three majors today. He rides Tinto in the Oaks and is tipping Sir Moments to shine in the Queensland Guineas.

"It was a very nice run in what was a sit and sprint race on a track that played towards leaders last time," he said.

"His best work was in the last 100m and from the great barrier, I'm very confident he can run a place here, if not win."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

They lose one day, whinge the next

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POOR Queensland, they lose one game and demand an entire overhaul of rugby league.

In a worrying indictment on Fourex beer's affect on the brain, Maroons officials were last night demanding mass changes to the judiciary process after NSW playmaker Josh Reynolds was freed to play Origin II in Sydney.

Speaking with The Daily Telegraph, Queensland Rugby League boss Peter Betros revealed he was "very disappointed" that Reynolds' lifting tackle on Brent Tate — which cartwheeled the Maroon — was downgraded from grade two to one.

Bulldogs CEO Raelene Castle walking out to speak to media with Josh Reynolds after he is cleared to play in the second game of Origin. Source: News Corp Australia

"I would hate to think there is one set of rules for Origin and one for everything else," Betros said.

And after that ... well, to be honest we stopped listening.

After eight years dominating all things Origin, it has taken just 80 minutes for the Bananabenders to be transformed into a whingeing, whining, whimpering mess.

Truly, think Mal Meninga with maroon snot bubbles.

According to our sister publication, The Courier Mail, the Reynolds decision was a "shocking failure" by the NRL and has not only "outraged every level of the code" but ensured "change to the game's judiciary process".

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And then, we assume, they cracked another beer.

Elsewhere, suspended Blue Greg Bird said, like everyone south of the Tweed, he was a little surprised by Tate's comments about never having been more frightened in his life.

"I thought it was a bit disappointing," Bird said. "I thought the words that were spoken after the game were a little bit out of line — but oh well, each to their own."

Not content to simply concentrate on, say, winning the series, QRL officialdom is now calling for Origin's judiciary system to be overhauled.

Josh Reynolds faces the judiciary at NRL Headquarters with his coach at the Bulldogs Des Hasler, for his dangerous throw tackle in the first State of Origin match. Source: News Corp Australia

Maroons officials contacted the NRL yesterday morning to express their frustration and will argue for new judiciary protocols to include a lengthier sentencing period. In the space of 22 hours, Reynolds was charged, he then appealed and won at the judiciary.

The Cowboys have also filed a formal complaint about the decision involving Tate.

"The player was issued with a grading immediately after the game,'' Betros said. "The player appealed the next day.

"I feel the whole process appears rushed. When a process is rushed the possibility for error is too great." On judiciary consistency, he said: "It should be consistent through NRL, Origin and Tests.

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"I'm confused as to how the charge was downgraded ... a lay person watching must be extremely confused as to what constitutes a grading. There is a different process for Origin games."

Dangerous throw charges have skyrocketed from 10 in 2012 to 17 already this season. Yet the judiciary has wiped 10 weeks from the suspensions of South Sydney hooker Apisai Koroisau, Bird and Reynolds.

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Four-quarter Pies thump helpless Saints

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SMASHED by Fremantle in Round 1, there was a worry that by the time Collingwood next played at Etihad Stadium — against St Kilda in Round 11 — its season would be over.

Dale Thomas, Heath Shaw, Darren Jolly and Alan Didak were gone and the new-look team looked fundamentally flawed against Ross Lyon's Docker machine.

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Sydney, Geelong, Richmond, North Melbourne, Essendon and Carlton — all from last year's top 10 — lay in wait between rounds two and seven and it was hard to see how Nathan Buckley's men would be favoured to win any of those games.

Then, having emerged from its first nine outings with a 6-3 record, a different worry: that Collingwood's comparatively easy run of St Kilda, Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs from rounds 11 to 13 could lull its players in to a false sense of security.

Dayne Beams finished with 33 disposals. Source: News Corp Australia

The unavailability of Nathan Brown (shoulder) and Luke Ball (calf) and late withdrawals of Dane Swan (heel) and Brodie Grundy (back) did little to ease concerns that the Pies could be a little vulnerable last night.

The sight of Nick Maxwell trudging off with a right calf injury inside the first 15 minutes didn't help either, nor did Steele Sidebottom's nonsensical jump in to Maverick Weller which resulted in what could be the quickest-ever report in AFL history — seven seconds.

Despite close attention from Jack Frost, Nick Riewoldt kicked three goals. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

It was an unattractive start by any measure.

The Pies had seven clearances to two and 15 inside 50s to five, yet when Farren Ray snapped a goal in the 20th minute the plucky rather than classy Saints led by 11 points.

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But then the unbackable favourites finally started to get some reward.

Jesse White marked on the lead from a Sidebottom pass and kicked truly from 55m. Within seven minutes Collingwood had three more through small forwards Josh Thomas (twice), Jarryd Blair and Alex Fasolo (twice) and suddenly the scoreboard was starting to reflect its overall dominance.

Cloke took 12 marks. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

After scoring one goal from their first 15 inside 50s the Magpies kicked six straight from their next seven going in to quarter time.

Then, having added another two with the first two entries after the break — this time to keys Travis Cloke and White — the margin was 36 points and the game as good as over.

As strange as it sounds, Collingwood is flying under the radar in the race for the premiership.

Port Adelaide and Gold Coast are the fairytale stories, Hawthorn has its injuries, Sydney has Lance Franklin and Kurt Tippett, Fremantle is intent on redemption and Geelong can never be counted out.

Scott Pendlebury finished with a classy 29 disposals. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

Importantly for Buckley, it is his lesser lights — many of whom did not play in the 2013 finals loss to Port — who continue to shine.

Fasolo — wasn't he meant to be a defender? — kicked four goals in another impressive forward role.

White, with two, played the perfect foil for a vastly-improved Cloke who kicked a season-high five majors.

Tom Langdon added another 22 possessions to his standout debut season, Paul Seedsman,

Paul Seedsman was a late inclusion for Dane Swan. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

Marley Williams and Clinton Young provided real dash from half back, Jack Frost didn't shirk his duties when confronted with Saints champ Nick Riewoldt, Taylor Adams was busy with 18 midfield touches and Josh Thomas (29 possessions and three goals) showed he could do the biz both in the middle and forward.

Maxwell is facing weeks on the sidelines with his calf injury, likewise Sidebottom who, considering Weller was subbed out of the game with concussion, will probably fall foul of the Match Review Panel given his tucked in elbow collected the Saint on the jaw.

Those two worries aside, Buckley would have left Docklands in a far better frame of mind than he did last time.

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Maria or Ana? Djokovic can’t decide

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NOVAK Djokovic's head says Maria Sharapova, but his heart says Ana Ivanovic.

With top seed Serena Williams knocked out of the French Open in the second round a day after world No. 2 Li Na made her shock first-round exit, the tag as favourite for the women's title is up for grabs.

Asked his opinion, Djokovic — who is the subject of debate over whether he or Rafael Nadal should be regarded as the men's favourite — tipped No. 7 seed and 2012 champion Sharapova to win a second Roland Garros crown.

"I just saw that Serena also lost, it's definitely a surprise to see the big favourites coming out," Djokovic said.

"I would love Serbian players win, Ana and Jelena (Jankovic). But it's a long ways, still only the beginning of the tournament.

"The next seeds, Sharapova is probably the favourite to win it because she has won this tournament in the past and played finals. I think she's in a good form."

Serbia's Ana Ivanovic celebrates her victory over France's Caroline Garcia at the end of their French tennis Open first round match. Source: AFP

But he would not be surprised to see Ivanovic challenge, having also won the title, in 2008.

"Ana has been playing really, really well," he said.

"Who knows? The experience of having in the past the title here can help mentally. Now that you see that the top two seeds are out, it can mentally give you that push that you need."

Sharapova came back from a break down early to defeat Bulgarian Tsvetana Pironkova 7-5 6-2 in her second-round match.

Williams, meanwhile, was bundled out by world No. 35 Garbine Muguruza of Spain 6-2 6-2.

"It was one of those days," Williams said.

"You can't be on every day, and, gosh, I hate to be off during a grand slam."

Muguruza said Williams told her as they shook hands at the net that if she continued to play the same way, she could win the tournament.

"I said, 'I will try, I will try,'" Muguruza said.

"It's my biggest win so far. So amazing."

In another upset, American wildcard Taylor Townsend, ranked No. 205 it the world, defeated French No. 20 seed Alize Cornet 6-4 4-6 6-4.

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Son of a gun takes on Waller army

Trainer Aleacia Bennett with Star of Octagonal. Source: Waide Maguire / News Corp Australia

ALEACIA Bennett has had fewer starters in her training career than Chris Waller has runners in the Octagonal Handicap at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday.

Waller is saddling up eight in the race — Coup Ay Tee, Bagman, Tromso, Tougher Than Ever, Hoylonny, Said Com, Fulgur and Masthead — which is yet another record for Sydney's all-conquering trainer.

Bennett, the 28-year-old from Singleton who is taking on the "Waller Army'' with Star Of Octagonal, can only marvel at the sheer stable size and extraordinary success of her rival trainer.

"When I had a look at the entries I said 'man, that is a lot of horses','' Bennett said of Waller's eight runners.

"He (Chris Waller) would be amazing to sit down with and have a chat about the way he gets around and manages such a big stable. How does he remember and program all his horses?''

Waller is at the peak of his training career and is dominating Sydney racing in a manner not seen since Tommy Smith in his heyday. It is not uncommon for the reigning premier trainer to have multiple runners in a race but eight is a new standard even for him.

In the 2013-14 season, Waller has had more than 1250 starters nationally for 180 wins and prizemoney of $19.6 million. The only other trainers to have at least 1000 runners this season are Melbourne's Darren Weir (1158) and Peter Snowden (1073).

By comparison, Bennett has only been training for five months, she has two horses in work and they have started in five races with the trainer's only winner a Gunnedah Maiden with Seebourn earlier this month.

Her stable earnings come to a princely sum of $13,200.

Bennett may have limited experience as a licensed trainer but she knows plenty about horses.

She grew up with them, riding show horses and playing polo cross.

"I've even done some camp drafting - I've had a go at just about everything,'' Bennett said.

"My Mum, who has never been on a horse, used to drive me miles and miles around the countryside taking me to shows and things. I still ride when I get time.''

She maintains there are certain principles that apply to all ``sporting'' horses.

"Basically, a horse's conformation is the same no matter what sport you are doing,' she said.

"Fitness is the main key. With show horses you have to have them muscled up and looking correct.

"The racehorse is the same but you are working them differently. As a trainer, you learn what to look for in your horses.

"I'm trying to learn what I can from these two and Star Of Octagonal has beray en good for me to learn from.

"He's an experienced racehorse and I think he's teaching me more than I'm teaching him.''

Despite having only Star Of Octagonal and Seebourn in her care, Bennett admits to being "time poor'' — but with good reason.

Bennett is also a qualified accountant and works full-time in the mining industry.

"My friends are always into me about never having any (spare) time,'' Bennett said.

"But I don't know what I would do if I had time, I'm just so busy.

"I always say racing is like a disease - once it is in your veins you can't get away from it.''

So, why has Bennett decided to juggle a full-time accountancy career with such a costly and time-consuming hobby as racehorse training?

She says her natural affinity with horses combined with a growing interest and understanding of racing has fuelled her ambitions.

"My husband James's grandfather, Kevin Hewitt, used to train at Singleton,'' she revealed.

"Before he passed away, I used to love going to the races with him. It has sort of grown from there.''

The trainer's day starts well before sunrise and usually includes a 40-minute drive to Cessnock racetrack where she puts Star Of Octagonal and Seebourn through their paces at trackwork.

Bennett then returns to her Singleton property where her two gallopers are placed in spacious paddocks before she leaves to start her ``day job'' at 8am.

"They are in a big yard, not in stables every day, they are out on the grass and get to be 'horses' — they love it,'' she added.

Star Of Octagonal, a rising eight-year-old with a race career punctuated by injury, also has a remarkable story.

The trainer's mother, Leanne Moore had a dream that she raced a son of 10-time Group 1 winner, champion Octagonal.

Moore's dream also provided her with a name for the horse — Star Of Octagonal.

At the 2008 Scone Yearling sales, Leanne Moore watched an Octagonal yearling walk into the ring and excitedly turned to her husband, Phil, and said: "That's the one.''

The Moore's secured the yearling they would name Star Of Octagonal for just $22,000

In a 27-start career so far, Star Of Octagonal has won five races (with eight placings) and earned more than $800,000 prizemoney.

Bennett was given Star Of Octagonal to train earlier this year and the gelding has had two starts for her, finishing last of seven behind Hot Snitzel in the Hall Mark Stakes at Randwick last month before another seventh placing in the 10-horse Luskin Star Stakes at the Scone stand-alone meeting two weeks ago.

Star Of Octagonal showed signs of ``ring rust'' in his first two starts back after a long break from racing but the veteran sprinter, winner of the 2010 Scone Guineas and 2012 Rowley Mile, is slowly regaining form and fitness.

"The track was too wet for him at Randwick but he had to have a start,'' Bennett said.

"I thought he hit the line quite well at Scone when obviously it was not his ideal distance.

"We are happy with him at home and he's working well on the track.

"We just don't want a wet track (tomorrow) because he doesn't handle those conditions.

"I always say to Dad we should charge an appearance fee to send him out west when we need rain.''

Bennett said Star Of Octagonal retains all the zest and enthusiasm for racing and training that you would find in a two-year-old.

"For a trainer, Star Of Octagonal is easy to do anything with because he loves what he does,'' Bennett said.

"He is part of the family now, he is s such a sweet `boy', he has the kindest nature.

"His eyes light up when you take him to the track and when I go to get him from the paddock every day, he is waiting at the gate for you.''

The trainer said the racing industry fosters a spirit of goodwill and appreciation from her colleagues.

When Seebourn, a three-year-old gelding by Sebring, scored in his maiden at Gunnedah on May 11, Bennett was swamped by well-wishers.

"There were jockeys and people I didn't even know coming up and congratulating me, saying well done,'' she said.

"I don't think you would get that in every sport.

"Everyone in this industry wants to help you, it is such a good environment — racing is like a little family.''

Bennett knows she is up against it tomorrow with Star Of Octagonal. The odds are against her.

But she is just starting her training career and success doesn't happen overnight. It took Chris Waller a decade of hard work to be in the position he is today as Australia's champion trainer.

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