Do or diet attitude changes Sandow

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THE secret is in the Tupperware tucked inside the bag Chris Sandow carries to training each day.

Not so long ago, everybody's favourite halfback would've done almost anything to smuggle a bag of hot chips through the back gate of Pirtek Stadium.

But four weeks prior to Christmas last year, Sandow had to make a decision.

This was a decision that meant a lot more than just football.

JOHNS: EELS AND SANDOW THE REAL DEAL

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It was the type of call young fathers make late at night. when your only conscious thought is the four kids sleeping in the bedroom down the hall.

Do I waste this opportunity because of a few poor life choices, or do I become a man and change the lives of those four kids forever?

Any rugby league fan who has witnessed the most heartwarming sports story of 2014 unfold over the past three weeks knows the answer.

In late November, with reports the $550,000 halfback — who had been forced to overcome gambling issues through counselling — was being shopped to rival clubs, new Eels coach Brad Arthur informed Sandow it would be Luke Kelly who would begin the NRL season in the famous blue and gold No 7 jersey.

Chris Sandow's form improvement is a result of his individual focus and determination. Source: Getty Images

Arthur gave it to Sandow straight. His fitness, his defence and areas of his attack were the three focal points which the coach wasn't ­satisfied with.

Sandow decided the first thing he would change was his diet. Instead of shuffling off after training to the Eels player's favourite cafe on Church St, he began packing his own lunch — healthy alternatives in Tupperware.

It was a crucial shift away from the old shortcut Sandow.

His training improved as he ripped into extra sessions with the Eels. And he never stopped smiling.

That was what impressed the Eels staff most. The desire was dialled in but the larrikin, the lighthearted and infectious character that every footy club craves remained.

Even in those first three rounds of the season, when Sandow stepped out to play in the NSW Cup for Wentworthville in front of 120 people, the 25-year-old found a reason to laugh.

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NRL indigenous welfare officer Dean Widders is a close confidant of Sandow's.

They chat most weeks, but one conversation last month in particular, Widders will never forget.

"It was a funny conversation I had with him," Widders said. "He was telling me how happy he was and it was then that I thought 'you know, if this guy is happy then when he gets into first grade he's going to produce some good form.'

"I was sort of worried that he would have his head down playing reserve grade, but he didn't at all.

"He was like, 'I'm looking forward to playing every week, I'm killing them here bro, killing them in reserve grade.'

"I knew then it wouldn't be long until he was back.''

Dean Widders says Sandow has matured and is happier in his life. Source: News Corp Australia

Once aloof, distant and seemingly lacking self-pride, Sandow has matured into the role-model he never thought he would be, according to ­Widders.

Widders, who like Sandow played first grade for South Sydney and Parramatta, pointed to a three-week stint in September last year at a private rehabilitation clinic as life-changing, not only for Sandow, but the entire Aboriginal ­community.

"You know, I wasn't worried about Chrissy at that time because it's always so positive to see some of our own indigenous boys getting that help. Reaching out,'' Widders said.

"A lot of them come from tough areas and tough upbringings. And they're not too worried if they have to go back to that.

"It's about them realising that they are in a pretty privileged position to do something positive and make a change. It's not until you get older and you realise that I can make a difference to the people where I come from.

"I think Chrissy went through that stuff and he sees that with his own kids, wanting them to be proud of who they are. Sometimes it's a brave thing to do. Especially when your life is in the spotlight. Everyone hears about it and talks about it, but Chrissy has never been a bad kid.

Sandow has been given a second chance by Parramatta and thrived. Source: Getty Images

"He's never been a hurtful person.

"All it was that he had a bit of an issue with gambling and while it's a serious issue, it was about teaching him some life skills around how to deal with that and plan ahead so that he could provide for ­himself and his family.''

When Arthur made the decision to recall Sandow to the top grade in round four against Penrith, his first NRL match in eight months, the coach did so completely aware that not everything the playmaker did would turn to gold.

He knew there would be moments in a match that Sandow would overplay his hand, or fall off a tackle.

But like life, rugby league is about second chances and rewarding those who answer the challenges in front of them.

Sandow got his NRL ticket back because he did what his coach asked him to last ­November.

Now, for Sandow, it's about staying there.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Buzz: Roos big guns call on Benny

Wayne Bennett has passed on his advice to FFA boss David Gallop and Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou ahead of the World Cup in Brazil. Source: FoxSports

WAYNE Bennett has done the lot in rugby league. Seven premierships at the Broncos and Dragons, coached the Kangaroos, Kiwis, Queensland and the All-Stars.

Now he's helping out with the Socceroos for their fast approaching World Cup campaign in Brazil.

On Thursday our spies spotted Bennett having lunch with Australia's coach Ange Postecoglou and soccer boss David Gallop.

In the rarefied air at the top of professional sports, there are pressures and challenges that only those in the big jobs can understand.

The lunch was organised by Gallop, who has the odd stoush with Bennett in his rugby league days.

Bennett's history of winning big matches and premierships fits neatly with Ange's thinking.

The Knights coach's renowned ability to constantly regenerate his coaching set up and playing roster would no doubt help Postecoglou in the difficult choices he has to make in picking a World Cup squad.

Who will ever forget Bennett sacking Wally Lewis at the Broncos in 1989.

Now Postecoglou has a similar tough decision to make with his skipper Lucas Neil.

We contacted Bennett to get more detail about what was discussed over lunch but he declined to comment.

■ ■ ■

After the lunch, Bennett visited his stricken Knights player Alex McKinnon in the spinal unit at Royal North Shore Hospital.

Half a dozen Knights players were there too. McKinnon is doing well and making slow improvement.

However it's still too early to determine the long term prognosis.

New Fox Sports presenter Tara Rushton. Picture: Toby Zerna Source: News Limited

TARA HITTING FEVER PITCH

THE face of the Fox Sports 'Kick off' show Tara Rushton has taken the big leap from pundit to player.

Rushton has signed up with a grassroots club and now spends Sunday afternoons honing her skills.

The former model has improved out of sight as a media performer and has wowed audiences since joining Fox Sports for this season's A-League coverage.

Russell Packer's former Warriors teammates have visited him in jail. Source: News Limited

WARRIORS GO BUSH TO VISIT PACKER IN PRISON

Russell Packer's former New Zealand Warriors team mates have visited him in jail.

The players hired a car after the recent loss to the Cronulla Sharks to drive to the prison at an undisclosed country town.

Packer last week won an appeal against the severity of his two-year sentence and is up for parole in January.

TEST TICKETS AT THE RIGHT PRICE

THERE'S not many sporting codes where you can see a TEST match for the price of three coffees.

We found these $12.50 tickets on the livingsocial.com website to sit in the Kiwi supporter's bay for the Test against the Kangaroos on May 2.

Good on the NRL for reacting to the fans' concerns and making the game so affordable.

CHOC WILL FIND STRENGTH TO FIGHT ON

Anthony Mundine says he will fight on. Source: News Corp Australia

ANTHONY Mundine has confirmed he will not retire from boxing. Instead he will probably move up a division where he can fight more comfortably as a middleweight.

"I can't go out like that," Mundine said of his loss to Joshua Clottey, "It was one of my poorest performances. I want to go out on my terms.

"It's taken a toll on my body fighting at super welterweight. I don't have the strength.

"I could put a few more pounds on and move to middleweight. I know I've got more to offer.

"I'll take to my team over the next few weeks and we'll come up with a plan but I definitely want to keep fighting."

GALLOP'S THE MAN TO DRAW A CROWD

FOOD for thought … rugby league crowds have plummeted by close to 20 per cent since the great John Grant sacked David Gallop as CEO.

At the same time soccer's A League crowds have risen by more than 30 per cent since Gallop took charge.

The NRL said goodbye to another of Gallop's old executive staff, Shane Mattiske, at a farewell at The Clock Hotel in Surry Hills on Wednesday night.

RAIDERS REQUEST REF BAN

THE Canberra Raiders have written to the NRL requesting that video referee and former interim coach Andrew Dunemann not be appointed to their games.

There is bad blood between the two parties following accusations Dunemann has approached two Raiders players about the possibility of joining a rival club.

Dunemann knows the contract details of all Canberra players from his time as Dave Furner's assistant. CEO Don Furner has written to the NRL's head of football Todd Greenberg about the situation.

SAINT

A FEAST of fabulous Easter sport with the big races at Randwick, a couple of NRL blockbusters at ANZ Stadium and the A-league finals.

SINNER

THE sad departure of Wests Tigers tragic Barry O'Farrell over a bottle of grog, albeit an expensive one. Never has this state had a premier who cared so much about rugby league.

The stars of Monday Night with Matty Johns. Source: Supplied

WINNER

MATTY Johns is on fire with his Monday night show on Fox Sports. Last week's show, which followed the Storm-Dragons thriller, was the highest rating show in Fox Sports history outside of live sports broadcasts. CEO Patrick Delaney and program director Gary Burns were spotted celebrating the figures in a Los Angeles bar on the way home from the U.S. Masters. Typically, Johns palmed off the credit to Gorden Tallis, Nathan Hindmarsh and Bryan Fletcher.

SHOOSH

WHO is the rookie coach so paranoid about leaks getting out of his club that he's threatened to check the phone records of his staff? The same coach also had the girlfriend of one of his player's take down a Facebook post congratulating her man for being named in first grade because he didn't want the opposition to know.

SPOTTED

TEST coach Tim Sheens, holding a Storm cap, deep in conversation with his former Raiders five-eighth Craig Bellamy, long after Monday night's controversial Storm-Dragons game.

ANIMAL ACT

FREDDY Fittler wanted his City Origin team to stay at the Western Plains Zoo in the build-up to the match against Country in Dubbo next month. The fear of 17 elite footy stars sleeping so close to lions, tigers and snakes was too much for NRL officials who chose a local motel instead.

WHISTLEBLOWER

ONE TAB punter loved the refereeing blunder which cost the Dragons victory on Monday night. He (or she) had a 16-leg multi needing Storm to win. The outlay — $5, The collect $11,126.90.

GEM STONED

CHANNEL Nine is no longer showing live NRL on Friday night's into Adelaide on digital channel GEM, much to the disgust of NSW and QLD expats now living in South Australia.

All they get is a replay after midnight.

TACKLE COUNTS

We're loving this new line of footy merchandise — NRL undies produced by a company called Balls & Tackles. That's me modelling the Sharks XL version. I wish. You can find the full range at www.nrlundies.com.au

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

NRL’s study shows ban won’t work

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ON level one of the NRL's headquarters at Moore Park, a small team of four analysts have spent six weeks bunkered down in front of monitors, working around the clock to scrutinise every tackle that has occurred since round one.

Following the devastating spinal injury to Newcastle's Alex McKinnon — and amid pressure to ban the lifting tackle, three-man tackles or both — the task was met with a simple directive: show us the research that proves why the NRL should change the fabric of rugby league forever.

News Limited can reveal the data behind one of the biggest issues in the game. In conjunction with the NRL's official statistics partner, Prozone, the NRL's own operations team assessed almost 12,000 tackles from rounds one to five.

Todd Greenberg says a blanket lifting tackle ban isn't the answer. Source: News Limited

From the study, the statistics indicated:

■In rounds one to five, there were 11,977 tackles and, of these, 3606 involved more than two tacklers;

■The number of three-man lifting tackles have decreased by 46 per cent from round one (63) to round five (34);

■One-on-one tackles represent the greatest percentage (20 per cent) of potentially dangerous tackles;

■Two-man tackles are the most common, representing half of all tackles and responsible for the most lifting tackles.

■Six per cent of three-man tackles involve lifting

Jack de Belin received a one-match suspension for this tackle on Sam Burgess. Source: News Corp Australia

The research is a code-breaker for the NRL, who has never before dedicated this level of critique and in-depth research into how the game is played.

The NRL now have the ability to enforce rule changes and tackle necessary issues with the supportive data in front of them.

The League has finally caught up to what every NRL club has had at their fingertips for almost a decade where individual tackles were broken up into one, two and three man tackles.

For the purpose of the study, a tackle by definition is when a defender, or number of defenders tackle an opposing player.

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A tackle was also numbered after an offload occurred or when a penalty was awarded during a tackle.

Each tackle was then qualified as "controlled" or "potentially dangerous".

After consultation with the NRL's match review committee, a lifting tackle was classified when a player was positioned past the horizontal and therefore was considered as dangerous.

Over the past month, NRL head of football Todd Greenberg has repeatedly stated publicly that any rule changes or bans would not be meted out until the game had the necessary information and data in front of them.

Cronulla's Ben Pomeroy is on the receiving end of this one against The Raiders. Source: News Limited

With the numbers now in front of him, Greenberg said the NRL would continue to make decisions based on research and facts.

"What the analysis shows is that there is no simple answer. This is a contact sport with multiple moving parts and applications,'' Greenberg said.

"Making blanket decisions that are really prescriptive doesn't work.

"Because it doesn't answer your fundamental problem, you would just be moving a problem from one area to another. We're not going to make decisions in relation to the rules until we have done the work required.

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"We will then consult with our clubs and players to ensure we have all the facts in front of us.

"If we had made a decision immediately then people would've criticised us for being reactionary and we would've created another problem elsewhere.

"The only reason why you would ban the three-man tackle or lifting tackles is if it would significantly change the way injuries are applied and it is obvious from the analysis that is not the case.

"We will continue make reasoned and measured decisions based on facts and data and we will make them with the game's best interests at heart."

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Riewoldt, Saints stun Bombers

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EVEN in this era of multi-option forward set-ups, nothing beats a viable tall target.

St Kilda ace Nick Riewoldt emphasised the value of that forward pillar to lead his team to glory on Saturday night.

The hard-working Saint set a new club record with his five goals in the 16 points win against a weary Essendon at Etihad Stadium.

Riewoldt's second goal of the match-turning haul launched him past former teammate Stephen Milne's 357 as the highest goalscorer at the Docklands venue.

Jack Billings kicked two goals in his first full game of AFL. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: News Corp Australia

Essendon, in contrast, had no-one who could latch onto the end of the inside 50 entries, with onballer Brent Stanton the leading goalkicker after being sent forward in the last quarter.When Riewoldt goalled from a strong, contested mark for the second time in the third quarter, it underlined the value of a viable forward target.

The Saints at that stage had 10 marks inside the forward 50, while Bomber trio Joe Daniher, Jake Carlisle and Kyle Hardingham had managed only three between them.

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Aside from being unable to contain the Saints' skipper under the high balls, the Bombers paid the ultimate price for untidy turnovers, several that couldn't be attributed to St Kilda's admirable defensive pressure.

It's difficult to allow Essendon the excuse of fatigue from the six-days break after enduring the sapping heat in Perth last weekend. Particularly when the Bombers finished the stronger with two late goals from Stanton given them the faint hope of a late flurry to snatch the game away.

Essendon's abled-bodied options were compounded when Heath Hocking had to be subbed out of the game with a hand injury midway through the third term.

Brent Stanton celebrates a goal but it wasn't enough for Essendon. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: News Corp Australia

Only when the contest opened up on tired legs from midway through the third quarter did it liven up as a spectacle.

Most of the first half was played, fittingly, between the 50m arcs where the white lines were still visible from the soccer pitch for the Melbourne Victory-Sydney game the previous night.

It looked like Essendon by how far after a stunning start with the first three goals from the early control of the momentum and ball.

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St Kilda didn't go inside the forward 50 for nearly 10 minutes mid-term as the Saints pressed back in numbers to try to contain the dominant Bombers.

And it was only an errant Cale Hooker handpass on the dockside wing that released Jack Billings to fire a left foot shot on the run after 17 minutes for the Saints only goal of that lopsided opening term.

Essendon had five straight goals by quarter time, two in bizarre circumstances.

Nick Riewoldt gives off a handball in front of Brent Stanton. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

Leroy Jetta's toe poke out of James Gwilt's hands on the goalline was granted after a video review.

Ruckman Paddy Ryder then grabbed the ball from a boundary throw-in deep in the forward pocket, threw it onto the boot and watched it take a wicked right angle bounce to roll across the unguarded goalline.

Riewoldt managed just one touch in the first quarter, such was Essendon's monopoly in its forward half of the ground. But he kick-started the Saints' fightback when he converted from an Adam Schneider pass early in the second term.

Jobe Watson gets a handball out under immense pressure from St Kilda. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: News Corp Australia

The rest of that quarter was studded with horrendous errors from players on both teams, often prompted by the desperate pressure in this defence-dominated contest.It was virtually 20 minutes of scoreboard stalemate in the second term before an Essendon turnover in the centre square eventually allowed Riewoldt to run into an open goal.

And the Saints were right back in the match after the Bombers messed up a kickout, gifting Jarryn Geary a goal on the run two minutes later in time-on that deadlocked the scores.

St Kilda's late flurry just before half-time at least left fans to ponder which team had the superior collective energy and conversion 'skills in an intriguing second half.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Johns: Eels and Sandow the real deal

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THE NRL are pleased. For the first time in a number of seasons some of Sydney's most important heartland teams are firing, or at the very least, showing enough improvement to suggest finals football is a real possibility.

The season is starting to take shape and true form is being established, so let's run the rule over the Sydney sides and rate their prospects.

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THE BULLDOGS

Have simplified their style and returned to a more direct, aggressive brand of football. Last year there was far too much passing for passing's sake amongst the forwards and they were frighteningly short on punch.

Are they capable of winning this competition?

If Sam Kasiano comes back into the team and gets back to 2012 form, it will provide a huge boost, however the Dogs appear one playmaker short and although I can see a top 4 finish, I believe they lack the attacking potency to win the whole thing.

Luke Brooks has six weeks to prove he can full in for Robbie Farah. Source: Getty Images

WEST TIGERS

After their 2005 Premiership win, the Tigers, year by year, moved further away from the basic fundamentals required to win big games.

When Mick Potter was bought in he recognised this but inherited a side that was either unable to change or refused to.

With Benji Marshall as the focal point of their attack, the Tigers were predictably sideways.

Marshall's move to rugby has forced change. The Tigers have rediscovered direct, aggressive football and power running.

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As a result Robbie Farah has been in career-best form and Luke Brooks, on the back of forward momentum, has the time and space to show he's a champion of the not-too-distant future.

What next?

The six-week injury to Robbie Farah is a huge test. But if the Tigers' forwards continue to rip, tear and dominate, this period could be the making of Luke Brooks.

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MANLY

Gonna take a lot of stopping again. Paul Gallen rates them as the toughest team in the competition, and that toughness, combined with the class they have in crucial positions has kept them as a premiership contender since 2007.

Have the best halves in the competition, which carries any side a long way.

What could go wrong?

The Stewart brothers' contract negotiations has the potential to be an issue that could derail their season. I'm told Glenn has his head around the probability of being elsewhere next year, but Brett is seriously hurting and has made it clear, if Glenn goes, he will follow.

Chris Sandow's return to form has been one this season's great sights. Source: News Corp Australia

PARRAMATTA

Brad Arthur has only taken six weeks to prove he is a very, very good head coach. Parramatta's Round 2 hammering at the hands of the Roosters could've spelled disaster for a team desperate for confidence.

Instead it's acted as a positive turning point. Since that loss the Eels have been fantastic. Their defence is well organised and gritty and their attack a breath of fresh air in a competition where too many teams try to attack the same way.

The resurrection of Parramatta and Chris Sandow is one of the major stories of 2014 so far.

Can they make the Finals?

Did you see them beat the Roosters last week? Of course they can. How they fare with injuries and the loss of Hayne during Origin will be telling.

South Sydney are looking forward to Luke Keary's return. Source: News Limited

SOUTH SYDNEY

Have had a bumpy start to the year but recent signs are good.

There have been rumours of in-house fighting and a bit of player division. Do I think there's any truth to those rumours?

There's some truth in there somewhere. Even in the most successful sides personality battles often take place. The crucial thing is that these issues can be resolved and watching Souths play over the last two weeks tells me, these issues are behind them.

Have Souths got what it takes to win the comp?

I picked them to win the comp before Round 1 and I'm even more confident now.

The extra speed in the rucks caught them by surprise in the early rounds, but recently they've played a more direct, momentum-based game rather than the structure, which made them look slow and laborious. Luke Keary returns in the back half of the year and expect big things.

Gareth Widdop has proven a great acquisition for the Dragons. Source: Getty Images

DRAGONS

One of the competitions most improved sides, who deserve a better ladder position than ninth. Last Monday night must've been devastating for all involved. Rarely has a side been so dudded, a complete embarrassment for the NRL.

But even the Dragons will admit, it's a game they should've won regardless. Their nervousness in the closing stages, in trying to protect their lead, shows a side yet to fully rediscover that real confidence, after several disappointing years.

How far can they go?

They are certainly capable of sneaking into the eight, they do a lot of things very well. They are however, a quality playmaker short. Gareth Whiddop has made a huge difference and Glenn Stewart, with his skill, toughness and winning nature, would be an ideal signing for next season.

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PENRITH

A very tough squad. Like the Titans, they've developed a style that makes them difficult to play and that's going to carry them a long way.

Ivan Cleary has recruited a squad which is a nice blend of experience and youthful confidence.

How far can they go?

I'll be very surprised if they miss the top eight. Last weeks loss to Souths could be a positive catalyst, given that it's a match that showed them some areas they need to address. Their attack under pressure was too sideways and giving away crucial penalties against the top teams gets punished.

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ROOSTERS

Like Souths, have been caught off-guard by how the speeding up of the rucks has meant bigger side; unless they adjust, they will be disadvantaged.

Last year they were the most penalised side in the comp, but they still managed to come out on top. This year the penalties are catching up with them and they need to really address this area.

Alarm Bells?

Not yet. There's too much class in this squad for them not to come good — however they are finding out how difficult the Premiers tag is. Regardless of where they sit on the ladder throughout this season, they will face an opposition primed and well prepared to take them down.

The Sharks season appears to be going from bad to worse. Source: Getty Images

CRONULLA

Find themselves in an awful position. A club ravaged by injury, down in confidence and looking as though the ASADA saga has finally taken its toll.

Best result

One way or another the Cronulla Sharks deserve to be told the ASADA findings, then at least they can move forward and get on with the job of playing football. They are playing poorly but it's hard to be critical of the players; it must be nigh impossible to get up for games.

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Maroons plotting south of the border

Queensland's Sydney-based players start the State of Origin planning at Paddington Bowls Club. Source: Stephen Cooper / News Corp Australia

NO five-star hotels or expensive harbour cruises here.

Queensland look to have gone back to grassroots in their quest for an unprecedented ninth straight State of Origin series win.

Maroons coach Mal Meninga organised a quiet dinner for their Sydney-based stars on Wednesday night at Paddington Bowling Club, known as Paddo Bowls.

The mood was relaxed and the conversation light as Queensland started to plot yet another series win. Some of the big stars in attendance included South Sydney's Greg Inglis, Newcastle's Darius Boyd and Manly's Daly Cherry-Evans.

Others who attended included Dane Gagai, Korbin Sims, Brenton Lawrence, Chris McQueen, Dave Tyrrell, Ben Lowe, Pat O'Hanlon, Moses Mbye, Kevin Kingston, James Segeyaro and Tom Humble.

Queensland will continue their relaxed Origin build-up at the Sanctuary Cove Resort. Source: News Corp Australia

Meninga was also there along with former Queensland champions Adrian Lam and Mark Coyne.

"It wasn't just Origin players — it was for any Queenslander living in Sydney," Coyne said. "It makes them feel part of the Origin experience if they come into the team.

"The main thing was to get together, have some fun and get to know each other."

Comedian Carl Barron was also spotted at the Queensland meeting.

"We do it each year," Meninga said. "It's an annual get-together for our Sydney-based Origin people."

Lawrence was thrilled to have been invited. "I am a Queenslander and always consider Queensland home," he said. "Every kid dreams of playing Origin and I would love to do it.''

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Pom pair to make it a long Good Friday

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SAM Burgess and James Graham, swapping yarns over a pot of tea.

Can you see it? No, neither could we.

Yet when it comes to one of the great NRL rivalries — a 220kg collision of pasty English flesh — Burgess insists it all comes down to cups of Earl Grey.

"Jammer, he's great at making a brew,'' the Rabbitohs enforcer insists. "When we're on tour, he makes a pot of tea for us every night. It's the one thing I'm really going to miss when I leave at the end of the year."

International roommates since 2007, Burgess and Graham are set to rock the foundations of ANZ stadium when they renew hostilities in a Good Friday clash between South Sydney and Canterbury.

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Apart from clashing violently back in June, 2012, the Pommy pairing are also alleged to have traded blows during an off-field dispute at the recent World Cup.

Yet despite regularly belting seven shades from one another, Burgess insists he and Graham are actually the best of mates. Rooming together for the past seven years as internationals, the duo also chat regularly, catch up for dinner monthly ... Burgess even going all Pat Benatar when asked about their battlefield.

"Love him to bits,'' the Rabbitohs enforcer grins. "Jammer is a great bloke and we're the closest mates.

"But I also love playing against him because he's a great competitor — you always know what you're going to get."

And what you get is fireworks.

England teammates Burgess and Graham put their friendship to one side. Source: News Limited

Like back in 2012 when, during a match the Bulldogs would eventually win 23-18, these two hulking forwards produced a clash so heated, the headline writers had no option but 'Battle Of Britain'.

Having collected a spilt Steeden from his own in-goal, Burgess wound up, cocked the elbow and motored straight from the man who makes his tea — wonderfully oblivious to the referee's whistle that had seen Graham drop his guard. Cue pandemonium.

Back in November, too, whispers again emerged of these two going at it — this time off-pitch during the World Cup. Apparently, the pair argued over a night on the turps which, following England's shock loss to Italy, eventually saw Gareth Hock sent home in disgrace.

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"But it's funny what gets written,'' Burgess shrugs. "Me and Jammer, we're honestly the best of mates.

"I spend a lot of time with him away from footy, catch up for dinner once a month, we're proper mates.

"And for England, we've been roomies since 2007. When you live with someone for five weeks like that, you get to know them pretty well."

How well?

"Mate, he's got some weird habits," Burgess laughs. "Jammer can't sleep at night unless he's listening to his podcast.

"That's weird, when you've got to listen to his podcasts with him. And then there's the brews ... he really is a quality bloke."

Burgess rates Graham's tea-making abilities, as well as his footy. Source: Getty Images

Can play a bit too?

"He's been mega for them,'' the Rabbitohs forward continues. "Has been for the last few years.

"I always knew he'd be great but I think it took It took a while for people to realise what he brought to the club.

"Great competitor, outstanding soft hands and he does the hard yards when needed. I see Canterbury have just re-signed him to a big contract too so hopefully he'll shout me a feed soon."

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Tigers claw to second win of year

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CATFIGHTS are rarely pretty affairs.

But the four premiership points were a thing of beauty for Richmond which clawed its way to a 43-point victory over Brisbane at the Gabba.

In a horribly mistake-riddled affair, the Tigers managed to repel a serious Lions surge in the third term in which Brisbane briefly hit the front.

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HARDWICK: I NEVER LOST FAITH

COTCHIN, RIEWOLDT TAKE A STAND

Tigers stars Trent Cotchin and Jack Riewoldt stood tall when their team needed them most.

The star duo were strong early and were dominant figures again when the game was in the balance in the third term to guide the Tigers to their second win of the year.

Cotching finished with 32 disposals, seven clearances and one goal while Riewoldt had four goals and nine marks.

Dustin Martin was also influential for the Tigers with three goals and 18 disposals playing as a forward.

Jack Redden wins a hard ball ahead of Dustin Martin. Source: Getty Images

A flurry of late goals blew the game open for Richmond to the point where the final margin probably flattered the Tigers, who were too big and too strong for the undermanned Brisbane outfit in the dying stages.

In his 250th match for the Lions, Jonathan Brown did his best to lift Brisbane to their first win of 2014 with four inspirational goals and nine marks.

Brown walked through the banner with daughter Olivia and son Jack before crashing through the packs in trademark style but it was not enough as Brisbane crashed to its fifth loss in five outings in 2014 to be last on the ladder.

Brisbane did win its first quarter of the year by just shading the Tigers in the second term but it will be of no comfort to senior coach Justin Leppitsch and his men.

Brisbane hit the lead for the first time on the night when first-year player Lewis Taylor kicked a running goal midway through the third term after earlier goals to Ryan Lester and Brown had the Gabba jumping.

Brisbane champ Jonathan Brown (right) celebrates a goal with young teammate Lewis Taylor. Source: Getty Images

But the Tigers quickly and emphatically seized the momentum back.

Two goals to Riewoldt and majors to Cotchin, Ricky Petterd and Matt Arnot put Richmond back in front and one the march to victory as the Tigers brutally exposed Brisbane's time-on woes to take a 19-point buffer into the last change.

Lions Darcy Gardiner and James Aish have an issue with Dustin Martin. Source: Getty Images

Quite incredibly, Brisbane was just 14 points behind Richmond at the main break.

The Tigers could have three times further in front if they kicked straight and capitalised on their superiority for significant portions of the first two quarters.

The Lions won the second quarter — their first of the season — to roar back into the contest that should have been over.

Graphic by Champion Data. Source: Supplied

Richmond led by 19 points at the first break after dominating inside 50s (19-5), total disposals (103-67), marks (29-17) and clearances (11-7) in the opening term.

Jack Riewoldt had the first goal of the match after less than 60 seconds and it took another 15 minutes before the second major of the match through Dustin Martin.

Graphic by Champion Data. Source: Supplied

Brisbane's only scoring shot came through Dayne Zorko in the 26th minute.

If the first term was hard to watch, the second quarter was terrible.

All it needed was the theme music from the "Benny Hill Show'' over the PA system to complete the comedy of errors.

Sam Lloyd tries to get away from Sam Mayes. Source: Getty Images

Richmond sunk to Brisbane's level and the Lions pounced.

Brown kicked Brisbane's first goal of the match in the seventh minute of the quarter as Brisbane scrapped and scraped.

Martin kicked a superb goal from the boundary line to settle the ship for the Tigers but goals to Rohan Bewick and Jackson Paine kept the home side well and truly in the contest.

BEST:

Richmond: Cotchin, Riewoldt, Martin, Jackson, Petterd,

Brisbane: Brown, Rockliff, Lester, Zorko, Robertson,

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22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Titan Mead: I’m just getting started

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HE has been a shining light in the Gold Coast's brilliant start to the season but Titans flyer David Mead says he can become even better after snaring the No. 1 jersey he's craved for so long.

Titans coach John Cartwright will keep Mead at fullback in Monday night's clash against Penrith despite the return of regular custodian William Zillman.

Mead has been electric since shifting to the back three weeks ago for Zillman (hamstring) with his blinding speed helping the Gold Coast to a hoodoo-snapping victory over the Broncos last Friday that saw them retain top spot on the NRL ladder.

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It was his third stellar appearance in the No. 1 jumper, prompting Cartwright to retain the Papua New Guinea international even with his vice-captain returning to the team.

Zillman trained in the centres yesterday but is a good chance of replacing Anthony Don (finger) on the wing.

There is also some doubt over halves pairing Aidan Sezer and Albert Kelly, who are on restricted duties because of minor thigh injuries.

Mead, who is the club's all-time leading try-scorer (53), said he was determined to prove to Cartwright he was the right man for the job.

Mead says he's far from the finished product, despite his good form this season. Source: Getty Images

"I'm very happy but there's still a lot to work on and a lot of areas to improve. I don't want to get complacent," he said.

"I've spoken to Neil (Henry, assistant coach) and Carty about where they can help me out with positional play and stuff like that.

"The feedback from them has been positive but I know there's areas I need to improve.

"They've said defensively I'm playing well but I can be a lot better in attack. I feel I can improve and help the team out."

Mead's shift to fullback has seen the 25-year-old score two tries, bust 12 tackles and average 166m a game.

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He ran for 256m against the Broncos, which included a scintillating 99m solo try, and said he was brimming with confidence after earning the role.

"It does give me confidence (being kept at fullback) but I want to go out 100 per cent focused on the job and not thinking about anything else," he said.

"I do enjoy it a lot more than I do playing on the wing. I'm not saying I don't enjoy playing on the wing but I just enjoy fullback a lot more.

"You have a lot more control in how the team's playing.

"It's something I'm willing to work very hard on."

Mead's only blemish at fullback has been his inability to run out 80 minutes in the high-intensity position.

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He has rotated with winger Kevin Gordon in the closing stages of the past few games because of cramping but said there were no issues with his fitness.

"It's weird because I'm not actually tired but my legs just cramp up. I'm doing everything I can to avoid it," he said.

"I've done a lot of research on it and it's unknown what the cause is or how to prevent it.

"I'm staying hydrated, getting electrolytes in and those types of things but there's no definite answer. I've tried eating bananas at half-time, before the game.

"It's been happening since I was playing under-13s. I definitely think it will improve over time."

Prop Ryan James, who will make his second NRL appearance of the season against Penrith, said Mead was potent from any position on the ground.

"Everything he's done has been great," he said.

"He's always pushing up and running hard. Meady's lethal anywhere he plays.

"We've got a couple of great fullbacks at the club.

"I'm sure it's going to be a headache for Carty."

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Sterlo: Sorry, but Dugan’s the one

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LAST weekend, NSW coach Laurie Daley's State of Origin selection task became that ­little bit tougher following the performance of Dragons fullback Josh Dugan in their controversial loss to Melbourne.

In just his second game of the season, there were a couple of handling errors but overall he was superb in helping to steer St George Illawarra to what should have been one of their more impressive victories.

That wasn't to be, but in no way did it detract from Dugan's involvement, which featured some remarkable efforts when running the football.

Jarryd Hayne's form means he will deservedly be the first player chosen by Laurie Daley. Source: News Corp Australia

The quandary is that when Daley sits down to select his 17 for game one, Jarryd Hayne will deservedly be the first player chosen. His form for the improved Eels this year and his 17-game experience for NSW demand that to be the case.

Which begs the question: what to do with Josh Dugan? Both men were used during last year's series, but not at the same time. Jarryd was the first-string fullback for the opening encounter and when he was injured Josh came in for the ­remaining two matches.

I'm also sure that, at the moment, fullback is their best position. Which means Hayne may be forced to take one for the team and be chosen away from the No. 1 jersey, as he was in Australia's World Cup triumph. In the final three matches he starred in the centres.

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If he were chosen at right centre, the battle then changes to one between Michael Jennings and Josh Morris, who are the incumbents and who both play on the left for their respective clubs. Neither has been in poor touch, which makes the time between now and selection absolutely vital in making the right impression.

This is, of course, not taking into account the credentials of Manly fullback Brett Stewart, who is also an outstanding Origin performer.

However, in my opinion room must be found for both Hayne and Dugan.

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On the subject of men at the back, their job at club level is being made much easier by an apparent turning of a blind eye to interference on players chasing through on kicks.

The rule allows for defenders to give protection as long as they move directly to where the ball is coming down and take up a position before the ball being caught.

In recent weeks, there have been blatant instances when defending players have gone completely out of their way to run illegal obstructions in front of those in pursuit of the football.

ORIGIN WATCH: DALEY'S KEY CONCERNS

In some cases contact is also being made, which takes away any chance of a chaser being involved in a fair contest with the man catching.

It is something of a fine art to give legal protection to the targeted man defusing the bomb, and it seems some teams have also turned illegal coverage into something of a fine art.

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More